SignWorks has been involved in the production of many different types of fire safety signs including the recent 12” by 18” NO PARKIN FIRE LANE with red lettering on a white reflective background. Most of the safety signs are evidence of the uncertainty that surrounds us that are seen every day on the news making our concerns about security and safety in our workplaces, schools and public buildings a higher priority than ever before. It is very important that our schools and workplaces are sheltered from potential hazards making up to date emergency preparedness plans not just necessary but essential. At SignWorks we take emergency preparedness very seriously and we help business/building owners, property managers and contractors to develop safety maps and signs to help reduce risks in the event of an emergency. Following is a listing and description of the four broadest categories of Site Safety Signs.
Evacuation Maps
We work with clients using their existing floor plan to create an easy to read map that can be customized to their specifications while complying with Fire Department guidelines which vary from city to city. The resulting maps after Fire Department approval would then be displayed throughout the facility to show the closest exits to be used in an emergency situation. Symbols are added to show all the hazard and emergency response equipment locations. We will use directional dashes and arrows to point out the nearest exit, along with large “You Are Here” bubble or gold star identifiers at the various viewing locations.
Room/Door Maps
Room/Door Maps are used to show clear evacuation routes from every room, along with instruction on what to do in the event of an emergency. These evacuation plans must be posted on the backs of all doors for the safety of both permanent and transient building occupants. Fire extinguisher and fire pull station symbols are typically included which will increase their visibility and use. These maps are customized to show the information needed to convey safety routes to residence hall and hotel room occupants.
Site Maps
It is important that every training manual include site maps to display all buildings, surrounding areas, major exits, and routes to evacuation zones. Symbols are used to graphically display the potential hazards and the locations of appropriate response equipment. These maps can be printed in a variety of sizes and can be displayed in your lobby or boardroom to show the entire facility to visitors and guests alike.
Incident Command Maps
Just like site maps, the Incident Command Map is targeted for use in safety training. It is also a valuable tool for emergency responders like firefighters and police. This large format map (approx. 24 X 36 inch) can also be used during strategic planning and fire drills. These maps are used in all types of facilities, and are especially helpful in schools where the safety of our children is critical. They should be included in any Emergency or Violence Response Kits and stored outside of the facility in a location that is easily reached by emergency personnel. This will reduce the amount of time it takes responders to deal with an emergency and it gives them a clear picture of the layout and hazards inside your facility. They can also be made in smaller laminated formats.
Fire Equipment/Location Signs
Fire equipment signs include Fire Extinguisher signs (pictured) and a variety of other fire control equipment location and pull station markers. These signs make it easier for firefighters to quickly locate essential equipment during an emergency. Having equipment locations clearly marked saves valuable time which translates into saving lives!
SignWorks has worked with several commercial property managers, building owners and contractors to provide a variety of different fire safety signs. If you are in need of either custom or standardized fire safety signs or need our help with compliance issues, please give us a call at (510) 357-2000. We hope to be your go-to source for safety related signs. We’ve been making signs like these for over thirteen years! If you’re not familiar with SignWorks, please visit our website to learn more about us, our projects and/or to view recent blog posts and photographs.
