Stocksigns has been manufacturing school signs for the education industry for more than 50 years. As a result we have built up a wealth of knowledge on how schools can make the best use of their signs. We have brought together the best blog posts aimed at schools in this article to remind schools and colleges how to use and choose the right signs for them.

We have also got one of the largest dedicated schools signs catalogues on the market. Click on the catalogue cover below to view our huge range.

The Sign Catalogue is now available. Please visit our “Catalogue Request” page to request a copy.

This next article in our series of posts to support ‘Go Green Week’ takes a look at recycling and advocates the use of recycling signs.

We are all getting used to the mantra “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle” but ‘recycling’, the third in the going greener hiearchy, is often the activity that can be done very half heartedly. We are not talking about the large scale collection of scrap metal from manufacturing processes (where generally there is financial benefit hiding behind the ‘green banner’) but the small scale semi-domestic recycling which builds-up within businesses e.g. paper, water, food containers etc. In a company environment people are generally keen to recycle but no one really wants to take responsibility. Particularly in smaller companies the office/kitchen recycling is often left until the mountain of jars and milk bottles becomes unbearable and someone gives in and takes it to the recycling skips, just before the point that ‘Rentokil’ are called in.

The trick is make the whole process simple. There are three essential steps to hassle free recycling in the office.

  1. Create a Rota
  2. Make it simple, provide sorting at source
  3. Provide clear instructions

You are unlikely to get a rush of volunteers to help but a simple rota for emptying the recycling will mean it gets done and everyone will feel they have done their bit. Endless memos nagging staff to comply to your waste management program are likely to breed more resentment than co-operation, so instead opt for simple sorting systems at source and clear recycling signage, which will give instructions and gently remind people of their responsibilities. Stocksigns has a huge range of energy conservation and recycling signs to help your company on its way to go greener. We would love to hear any tips you have used in your company to promote a greener business jgodden@stocksigns.co.uk

With the wintry weather set to continue for a few weeks yet, it’s time to take extra safety precautions. The councils do their best to grit and salt our roads, to protect road users as best they can. But what happens at the travellers’ destinations? Many road users are on their way to work and schools, where they encounter private roads, driveways and car parks, all outside the councils jurisdiction. It is here in these close to home places where most accidents occur and quite often these are the same places that do not get the safety treatment they deserve.

Don’t let your premises, car park or pathways add to this winter’s accident statistics. Clear car parks and pathways of ice and snow, and regularly grit with salt to stop them re-freezing. When clearing snow ensure you have the right tools. A Snow pusher is lightweight and has a bi-directional blade making clearing of large areas quick and efficient. Products such as Ice Melt will clear icy patches quickly, with no damage to carpets, floors or plants.

Once staff and visitors are inside your premises the hazard doesn’t stop, floors in receptions, entry points and non carpeted corridors become slippery even with relatively low footfall levels. Make sure these trouble spots are regularly mopped, adequate door matting is available and a suitable “slippery surface sign” is used to warn people of the potential dangers.

Winter Hazard Zones Check List

  • Grit all car parks.
  • Ensure all external paths are cleared and regularly gritted.
  • Areas with high footfall such as entrances and smoking shelters, need extra attention.
  • Hall ways, entrance lobbies and receptions will become wet and slippery, ensure areas are mopped regularly and “slips, trips and falls signs” are displayed.
  • Check stocks of salt and grit.
  • Install speed limit signs in large car parks and driveways.

Stocksigns has created a Pinterest page to help bring together some of the links to the industries best safety signs and general signage resources.

As we both publish our own signage information, and find the latest innovations and technologies within the industry, we will aggregate them together in our new page. Be sure to visit regularly or add it to your favourites to keep all your signage resources in one place. Also please send any signage information and resources that you would lik to be added to the page. You can contact me directly on jgodden@stocksigns.co.uk

Over the centuries Braille has had an enormous effect on the lives of millions of people across 120 countries worldwide. It is not a language but a code by which all languages may be written and read. The ability to read and write in Braille opens the door to literacy, intellectual freedom, equal opportunity, and personal security. It is an extremely important gateway to opportunity for the UK’s blind or partially sighted people, enabling them to be more independent.

Tactual from Stocksigns

The Stocksigns Braille signs range – Tactual – fully comply with Technical Bulletin 24 of the joint Mobility Unit. The JMU is a service provided by the RNIB and the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. Tactual signs may be manufactured to suit individual needs including a range of text options, panel colours and layouts. We can advise you on your own legal obligations and ensure that your workplace is complying with the appropriate regulations. Braille can be incorporated into your corporate signage to extend the audience range and the reach of your signs. It can be included in information and tourist interpretation boards to extend their accessibility and contact points, such as emergency assistance points, with Braille offer help to vulnerable members of the public.

Stocksigns only supply Braille signs that we manufacture ourselves. As a result not only can we be sure that they are of the highest quality but also that we have the technology and expertise to manufacture any custom made sign with Braille to our own specification. We manufacture both Braille Safety signs and Braille Information signs in standard designs, as well as being able to add Braille to custom-made signs.

We also offer other types of disability signs, including disabled parking signs, accessible toilet signage and induction loop notices for the hard of hearing.

While safety signs may not have been at the top of your Christmas list, this time of year is the perfect time to carry out a signage audit of your premises. The beginning of year is always associated with fresh starts, out with the old and in with the new. We often get renewed energy which gives us the impetus to start new projects or clear the decks in anticipation of what January will bring.

Taking Stock of your Safety Signs

Take time to walk round your premises, it may take a couple of trips round if you have a large or complicated building layout. Note all your existing fire signs and safety signs. Do you have all the necessary signs covered by legislation? Through the course of the year things happen to your building, were signs replaced after that wall got repainted? were your signs covered up when you had the last office move round? Many people find that their fire signage is often in the wrong place, check your emergency escape signage is being displayed properly. If you are not sure whether you are completely covered legally get a site survey done to give you peace of mind. While it isn’t yet a requirement to change all your existing safety signs to the new ISO7010 versions make sure any missing or damaged signs are replaced with the new updated symbols.

Care of your safety Signs

Safety signs over time can become dirty or damaged several environmental factors can effect your signs. Signs in areas of high traffic can become dirty quickly. Make sure all signs are clean and clear and be easily read, cleaning where needed. If they are illegible and beyond cleaning replace where necessary.

Signage Clutter

Have you got too many safety signs? are the messages you are giving out confusing? If it is a high hazard area consider replacing a number of your signs with single multi message signs. Having your safety information in one place will not only look smarter but will help reduce sign blindness- where people are so used to seeing the same signs day in day out they in fact cease to register seeing the signs at all.

For more information about safety signs or any other signage query please contact our sales team sales@stocksigns.co.uk  and don’t forget to order your new 2013 catalogue.

This article was first published in December 2011.

Over the next few months we will see a further step in the adoption of a new standard for safety signs as BS ISO 7010 is soon to become BS EN ISO 7010. The change will see safety signs in the workplace move away from being an “International standard” (essentially a recommendation on best practice), to a European norm (meaning the contents of the standard must be written into UK and EU law).

ISO 7010 has been developed to provide consistency in design across the EU. The new designs have now been phased in and all our signs follow The Health & Safety (Safety Signs & Signals) Regulations 1966 and conform to BS ISO 7010 where applicable.

How does ISO 7010 effect my safety signs?

You may have noticed some design changes to the symbols whereas others will look virtually unchanged. Whilst the new symbols will be replacing the old designs, some Health and Safety guidance recommends that the two different types of signage, BS 5499 and EN ISO 7010 should not be mixed in the workplace, so you may want to change your current signage to comply, although for the present both designs will still meet your safety obligations. When looking to purchase new signage, ensure they meet with the new EN ISO 7010 standards.

What size signs should I use? – Viewing Distances For Signs

We are often asked by customers what size sign they should be using, particularly with regard to safety signs. The truth is there is no hard and fast rule for size of sign and viewing distances. Currently there is no legislation covering this aspect of safety signs and symbols, and common sense has to be used to make a judgement. The viewing distance for signs is dependant on many factors.

  • Ambient Light Conditions
  • Obstructions
  • Height of the sign
  • The colours of the sign design
  • The style and size of the fonts used

However to help in choosing the right signs and make more of an informed decision, the following illustrations will serve as a guide. If you would still like some assistance call our sales team on 01737 77 40 72, or alternatively a site survey of your premises by one of our team, can give you peace of mind, ensuring you have the right signs for your building.

Cycle safety signs from Stocksigns. Every year 15,000 cyclists are killed or injured on our roads. The most common accident is the motorist turning into the path of cyclists. This is an issue that has been taken very seriously by freight operating companies and safety campaigners alike. Working with some major aggregate companies, Stocksigns has developed vehicle mounted warning cycle safety signs directed at cyclists and warning them of the danger of undertaking lorries, particularly at traffic lights.

Cycle Safety Signs

Stocksigns has a huge range of safety signs for cyclists and are working closely with FORS to help improve safety on the roads in the Capital. RoSPA have produced this short educational film highlighting the dangers faced by pedal cyclists, especially in relation to lorries on the road.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gL-1dKJX2BY&list=UUYefE0V7eotTm48YiuliAxw&index=3&feature=plcp

Six-times winner of the prestigious Gold award for Occupational Health and Safety from RoSPA, the Pitsea site took the decision to install the new LED signs as a means of delivering heightened safety awareness through a permanent visual reminder that is regularly refreshed to capture and retain people’s attention.

The Pitsea landfill site has been operating for the last 100 years, during which time the local population has greatly expanded.  Currently, the Pitsea site now handles anywhere up to 800,000 tonnes of waste per annum and employs around 50 staff, who are engaged in a number of operations, from composting and landfill gas treatment to energy generation.

Pole mounted with acrylic vinyl lettering and branded with the company’s logo, the 1200 mm square signs offer a positive first impression with clear visibility across the site.  A series of bright red LED displays, readable from distances of up to 40 metres, convey key information to site personnel.

In addition to displaying the current date and time, a four-digit data window displays up to date information on the site’s safety record, expressed as elapsed time since the last logged incident (LTA). A scrolling text window running along the whole width of the sign allows key safety messages to be displayed.  Used to draw the attention of site workers and visitors to different types of risk – from the presence of reversing vehicles to a reminder to wear hard hats – these displays can be updated remotely at any time from the main site office via a remote wireless link, using the software provided with the system.

Following the success of the LED signs at Pitsea, the company is now considering rolling out the technology to other sites across the UK.

Shaun Taylor, landfill and recycling manager at Pitsea for Veolia Environmental Services said: “Both as a company and here on site we take safety seriously and we are proud of our award-winning track record.  The brightness and readability of the new LED signs attracts attention, even at a distance.  The constantly changing messaging keeps people’s attention as well as enabling us to draw their attention to a whole range of safety issues, all equally important in protecting staff and visitors.”

Stocksigns is delighted to publish their new edition of the School Signs Catalogue. Available on-line, it boasts the most comprehensive range of safety signs for schools, along with “easy order” sign guides for the most commonly required custom-made signs for schools.

An ideal school reference guide for Head Teachers, Bursars, Local Authorities and Contractors. For more information or advice on our School signs ranges, view our online safety signs catalogue or call our Sales Team on 01737 77 40 72.

All too often important announcements or vital bits of information are lost or go unnoticed. A Noticeboard can help to improve communication and can become a central focus, or even a meeting place for employees or communities.

Top Uses for Noticeboards

  • To post public messages for people
  • Help build company brand
  • As a Bulletin Board for company updates
  • Advertise upcoming events
  • Promote communication between administration and other staff
  • Announce company results – which can enhance productivity and build staff motivation
  • Create unity and a common purpose between staff members and help team building

Where Should You locate Your Noticeboards?

  • Chose a central and prominent position
  • Having dual or multiple locations work well
  • Create a hierarchy of notice boards i.e. general company info, departmental down to social events and news – this could form part of a well structured internal communications project
  • Look for places where people naturally gather, the photocopier & coffee machine are popular choices

Choosing Your Noticeboards

  • Where is your noticeboard to be displayed? We can provide noticeboards and display cases that are sympathetic to your environment. We can also offer advice on the levels of weather or vandal protection your external notice boards may require.
  • What information are you going to display? Is the information permanent or will it require updating regularly? We offer notice boards with fabric covered pin boards which are also Velcro friendly, magnetic or for fixed permanent display. Locking notice boards give flexibility and security. These can also be simple tamper proof snap frames / clip poster frames that allow very quick access to update your display.
  • When will the information be viewed? Illumination can be incorporated, extending optimum viewing conditions. Lighting increases the functionality of your sign or noticeboard, not only making viewing easier, but also adding to the aesthetics of your display.
  • Consider LED signs – LED displays communicate high impact messages which can be easily updated.

How To Be Creative with your Noticeboards

  • Try theming your noticeboards, tie in with seasonal celebrations like Christmas, Halloween or even a company anniversary
  • Run regular competitions through your noticeboards and publish the winners on the boards too
  • Be creative with the display – use colourful borders,  and cut-out letters to add impact. Why not add texture with other objects to create a collage effect? A school supplies company will be able to provide you with a huge range of colourful materials to create a truly unique and creative noticeboard

By spending some time planning your noticeboards you can turn them into a valuable resource. Experiment with the types of information displayed and the way it is presented. Ask for feedback from staff, by asking them what they would like posted on the boards they are more likely to take notice and absorb other company information that you publish.

This article is dedicated to the different application methods used for applying/installing self adhesive vinyl signs and window graphics. Many of our safety signs come with a self adhesive vinyl option making

frosted vinyl screen, glass highlighting

them very versatile and easy to install. We also offer a range of frosted vinyl window graphics in both standard and custom-made designs. Glass Highlighting can also help you comply with Regulation 14 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. The Regulation requires the marking of windows and glass doors to make them conspicuous.

  

  

How to apply your vinyl signs and graphics

Before applying any self adhesive graphics make sure that the application surface is clean and free from contaminants. To apply your self adhesive graphics, use one of the following methods:

For Small Sizes (up to approximately 20 x 20cm)

1. You will need a squeegee.  ( a small rigid plastic card designed for sign applicating, if you can’t get one, a small professional window cleaning one will do, or even an old credit card)

2. Remove the backing paper from the face material.

3. Position the sticker/sign on the surface and press in place with finger tips.

4. Apply the sticker to the surface with squeegee, using overlapping strokes. Puncture any air bubbles with a needle and press in place.

mobile phones, prohibition, safety signs

For Medium Sizes

1. You will need a squeegee (see above).

2. Remove 3-5cm of the backing paper from one edge of the sticker and fold back.

3. Position the sticker to the surface and press the exposed adhesive area in place with finger tips.

4. Apply the sticker to the surface with squeegee, using overlapping strokes, removing the backing paper little by little with the other hand puncture any air bubbles with a needle and press in place.

Wet application method for large sizes

1. You will need a squeegee (see above), sponge or cloth, water plus a little liquid detergent (i.e. washing up liquid), agitated to produce foam bubbles.

2. Temperature of the application surface and in the workshop should be 15°C or above.frosted glass, room divider, glass highlighting

3. Wet the application surface entirely with foam bubbles.

4. Remove the backing paper, keeping the sticker flat.

5. Apply the sticker to the wet surface and bring into position.

6. Remove any excess foam bubbles from underneath the sticker with a squeegee, using light pressure in overlapping strokes, working from the centre. Dry the sticker with a cloth.

7. Secure the sticker to the surface with a squeegee, using overlapping strokes and firm pressure, paying particular attention to the edges, to ensure a firm bond.

8. When possible, check and re-squeegee firmly after 24 hours.

*note – With this application method ultimate adhesion of the sticker/sign is reached later than with a dry method. The sticker/sign will obtain ultimate adhesion about 24-48 hours after application.

We have been working hard to bring you the widest range of high quality signage products in 2012.  The Catalogue has over 30,000 standard signs for you to choose from and a custom section that aims to provide inspiration for choosing signs from proven designs created for others and steer you to design your own should you wish. This year we have extended our capabilities and product range even further to include LED signs.

 What’s new in this years sign catalogue?

Our recent acquisition of Messagemaker Display ltd has enabled us to bring to you a brand new range of programmable LED signs available off the shelf. The new range includes static and programmable display systems in a range of sizes and text colours. These easy to use signs add high impact to your advertising or information messages.

To compliment our 3D pictorial signs we have created some pictorial stickers for displaying on cupboards and drawers. These signs can aid recognition and help dementia sufferers and those with learning difficulties.

We are continually looking for ways to make the catalogue as easy as possible to use. This year we have introduced many more photographs so you can see exactly how best to display and locate your signs. Listening to our customers has led us to re-arrange some of the pages to help you find the right signs more quickly.

How to get the best out of your signs catalogue

Our many years in the signage industry has allowed us to develop an easy ordering system to help you decipher the complicated world of safety signs and general signage. The catalogue itself is divided into two main sections. The first section covers our standard signs, which is made up of all the various safety signs, traffic signs and information signs available off the shelf. The second section displays some of our products and capabilities for creating custom-made signs. This section is merely intended to be a guide, to give you a small insight into what we can create for you, and by no means includes everything, so if you don’t see what you want, please contact our sales team.

Safety Signs and Standard Information Signs Section

Our standards signs section is packed with over 30,000 safety signs and general information signs so, to make choosing your signs a little less overwhelming, we have lots of hints and information to help you make an informed decision. We show many of our signs in working situations so you can best see how the safety message can be applied. We have included as many facts and figures as we can to educate and promote safety awareness. We always include the necessary legislation covering the safety issue, so you can be sure you will be meeting your legislative obligations. Our easy reference price grids make ordering simple and our “have you seen” cross references make sure you won’t miss anything you might need.

Custom-made Signs Section

Our custom made signs section has been designed to educate and inspire. We give you hints and tips on how best to choose your signage products in terms of size, design and materials. We point out the potential pitfalls and provide solutions for getting the optimum results from your signs. We highlight the benefits of different styles of product. Each of our product sections has some general information to help you decide if you are looking at the right products for your needs. Also for each product section we have tried to include as many photographs as possible, not only to give you some idea of the depth of our ranges but also to inspire you. Lastly, where we can squeeze them in, we have included customer testimonials to promote our service, so you don’t have to just take our word for it, you are in experienced and safe hands choosing Stocksigns.

Our safety signs catalogue is designed to give you the best choice of products backed by relevant information but don’t feel you have to go it alone, our Sales Team are always ready to guide you and help you get the best from your signs.

 

While safety signs may not have been at the top of your Christmas list, this time of year is the perfect time to carry out a signage audit of your premises. The beginning of year is always associated with fresh starts, out with the old and in with the new. We often get renewed energy which gives us the impetus to start new projects or clear the decks in anticipation of what January will bring.

Taking Stock of your Safety Signs

Take time to walk round your premises, it may take a couple of trips round if you have a large or complicated building layout. Note all your existing fire safety signs. Do you have all the necessary signs covered by legislation? Through the course of the year things happen to your building, were signs replaced after that wall got repainted? were your signs covered up when you had the last office move round? Many people find that their fire signage is often in the wrong place, check your emergency escape signage is being displayed properly. If you are not sure whether you are completely covered legally get a site survey done to give you peace of mind. While it isn’t yet a requirement to change all your existing safety signs to the new ISO7010 versions make sure any missing or damaged signs are replaced with the new updated symbols.

Care of your safety Signs

Safety signs over time can become dirty or damaged several environmental factors can effect your signs. Signs in areas of high traffic can become dirty quickly. Make sure all signs are clean and clear and be easily read, cleaning where needed. If they are illegible and beyond cleaning replace where necessary.

Signage Clutter

Have you got too many safety signs? are the messages you are giving out confusing? If it is a high hazard area consider replacing a number of your signs with single multi message signs. Having your safety information in one place will not only look smarter but will help reduce sign blindness- where people are so used to seeing the same signs day in day out they in fact cease to register seeing the signs at all.

For more information about safety signs or any other signage query please contact our sales team sales@stocksigns.co.uk.

Roger Bibbings, RoSPA’s Occupational Safety Adviser talks about how, during these times of austerity, now is not the time to cut back, but instead invest in health and safety. Safety Signs can be a key part of this.

Safety signs are a cost effective way of enhance your safety policy. They can be used to warn of inherent dangers, they can be used to promote safety awareness and used as training aids in safety training. A site survey from Stocksigns can help ensure your premises meet current legislation and best practice.

http://youtu.be/oDBG5OPlPmk

We are often asked by our customers which fire exit sign they should use where and with which arrow? This simple guide will help you to select the right signs for your premises and keeping within current legislation. The directional arrows are designed to give visual instructions of the safest route to take in the event of an emergency.

A site survey of your premises can help you ensure your emergency escape plans have the correct signage and can form part of your safety risk assessment.

Below shows the directional arrows and their meanings on Emergency Exit Signs

 Fire exit sign - arrow down Progress down from here    
 Fire exit sign - arrow up Progress forward from here or progress forward and through here. The most commonly used emergency escape sign often seen above doorways.    
 Fire exit sign - arrow right Progress to the right from here    
 Fire exit sign - arrow left Progress to the left from here    
 Fire exit sign - down right Progress down and right from here    
 Fire exit sign - down left Progress down and left from here    
 Fire exit sign - up right Progress up and right from here    
 Fire exit sign - up left Progress up and left from here    

There has been much talk recently about signs pollution, the proliferation of signs all over our town and countryside, from high street to motorway, from factory to farm. Which not only can blight our landscape or built environment, but also cause confusion by virtue of the sign’s own cluttering promiscuity.

Does this apply to health and safety signs?

Not so, in our view. First, the very purpose of properly located and appropriate safety signage is to protect staff and visitors on your premises, when all other means to mitigate a risk has been considered an actioned. In this case “familiarity does NOT breed contempt – rather the continual and consistent viability of such safety aids increases awareness and comprehension of the potential dangers and the means of avoiding or evading them. This is not just a negative “do not” approach as is evident from essential use of fire and emergency exit signs in their various forms.

Secondly, the key to effective health and safety signage starts with the comprehensive assessment of the risks in a workplace and, where these can not be avoided, the selection of the most appropriate signs – which in many cases, separate safety messages can be incorporated in one multi-purpose sign, so quite legitimately saving space and money.

Safety Signs Training

A further crucial ingredient is the general level of safety awareness that is developed within your organisation, and in particular, the education and training of staff with respect to safety signs. Here, there are a number of aides, such as pocket guides (for example, these can be included in an induction pack) and the Health and Safety Law Poster that are in any event a legal requirement to display.

In all these areas Stocksigns can help, although ultimately, of course the responsibility lies with you. Our advice, a combination of physical surveys and the wide range of signs on offer, will eliminate the over-use of signs, but protect the organisation, and its employees and visitors, which after all, is the whole point.

Just because there is statutory requirement for all non-domestic premises to have the right fire safety signage, there is no reason that fire exit signs cannot be used imaginatively to fit in with your building design and decoration.

Here are some examples of the different ways that a compliant fire sign can be used.

1. Wall and ceiling mounted signs are very useful when for example, space is at a premium or there is a low ceiling.

2. Sign frames can add impact to the sign message. One option is to fit the sign into the appropriate sign frame, which can be suspended or wall mounted. Alternatively, for a more design conscious solution a Vision MX frame system, which can of course be double sided.

3. Wall mounted projecting signs increase visibility from several directions.

4. Sometimes conditions require the use of an extra large sign, particularly in public places. Extended view of up to 40 metres can be achieved with signs 1200 x 400mm in size.

5. Again, constraints of design or purpose may require the use of “portrait” style fire signs, for example multi-storey car parks.

6. An innovative aid is the use of fire exit floor graphics as part of a wider safety sign installation.

7. Two larger luminaires are available, for when this type of signage is required or chosen. The cylinder range comes in various options for mounting and is an elegant solution. At a very practical level are the BSI certified metal exit signs which are extremely good value for money.

8. Photoluminescent signs are both effective and alternative choices, and can be used with several of the options available to the standard fire signs.

9. Signs for the physically impaired are part of the provision that can be required under the Disability Discrimination Act. They also show an employers awareness and sensitivity to the needs of this often overlooked section of the community.

10. “Tactual” signs are particularly relevant to the visually impaired, with the wide spaced raised text incorporating Braille. Braille signs fully conforming to BS5499-2:2002 and ISO 7010, as well as Technical Bulletin 24 of the joint Mobility Unit, part of the RNIB.

11. The Hospital Sector has developed a range of fire escape signs, specifically for the sector but have proved popular in other fields too.

12. Finally there is a range of “Standard Enhanced” signs with clear acrylic and satin chrome panel supports – a very aesthetically pleasing choice, which complements the design aware decor of an office, shop etc. All in all, a much larger selection of fire and emergency escape signs than perhaps one might have imagined. The good news is that Stocksigns can supply all the ranges listed above. Why not think seriously about how you enhance your signage.

Making Provision for the Disabled – It’s not just about the law or wheelchairs.

Since the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) all service providers, whatever their size have had to make reasonable adjustments to the physical features of their premises to overcome any physical barriers to access.

One key element – and a relatively low-cost one at that – is disability signage. Below we set out the background to the legislation (and the need) and show how reviewing one’s signs can have a big impact on fulfilling the legal, practical, and moral obligations of our fellow citizens.

Disability Discrimination Act 1995

“why bother it doesn’t effect me…does it?”

It does effect any business that provides a service, whether it’s free or paid for. Prior to 1st October, part 2 of the DDA only applied to companies that had more than 15 employees. However, since 1st October, ALL employers must comply with the DDA’s provision on employment and occupation. There are approximately 8.6 million people with disabilities in the UK. Their estimated annual purchasing power is between £40 and £50 billion.

“What are ‘reasonable’ adjustments?” – they must be specific to the building and the type of service being provided. Provisions should not just be restricted to improving wheelchair access, only 5% of those with disabilities are in wheelchairs.

  • There are 600,000 wheelchair users
  • 2.5-3 million visually impaired
  • 1.5-6 million reading difficulties
  • 8 million deaf or hard of hearing
  • 15 million mental health difficulties
  • 1 in 3 people over 55 have Arthritis

(source: Department for Inclusive Environments University of Reading)

BS 8300:2001

The British Standard gives dimensions and details of the physical requirements needed in order to comply with the DDA as well as signage requirements.

Disability Rights Commission

The DRC not only provides help for disabled people, but also produced a Code of Practice and various guides for service providers.

If you are a service provider or an employer, you need to:

  • assess the problem, or better still
  • have an access audit done
  • contact local access groups
  • produce an access plan

Once you know which physical features may make it difficult for disabled people to use your services then the law gives you a choice.

  • you can alter the feature
  • you can remove the feature
  • you can find a way of avoiding it
  • you can provide the service in another way

The DRC strongly recommends the ”inclusive” approach. Removal or alteration of a feature is the most likely option to ensure that disabled people receive the services in the same way as other customers.

What areas should be considered when making reasonable adjustments

  • Routes to and around buildings
  • Designated car parking bays
  • Building entrances and exits
  • Directions to facilities – lifts, toilets, etc.
  • Information on services available to the disabled
  • Clear indication of help points
  • Emergency exit routes and disabled refuge points
  • Enhancement of general information signage

Where to install suitable DDA signage

“Signs should form part of an integrated communication scheme that gives clear directions, information and instructions for use of a building” – BS 8300:2001. Signage that complies with the DDA is based on the guidelines shown in the Sign Design Guide and developed by the Joint Mobility Unit.

Important things to consider when buying DDA signage

Text in upper case

Upper and lower case text provides a recognisable “footprint” even if the text can’t be read.

Letter Heights

Viewing Distance Type of sign “x” height in mm
Long Distance External Fascias 200mm
External location 90 – 120mm
External Directions 90mm
House numbers 90mm
Medium Range Location & Direction 60mm
Identification signs 40mm
Close Range Room Identification 35mm
Directories 15mm
Wall mounted information 15mm

Good Contrast

Black and white provides the most obvious contrast but can cause halation for some people due to the extreme contrast and glare.

So we are looking for:-

  • Clear text in upper and lower case
  • preferably white text on a darker background
  • letter heights based on BS 8300 or “Sign Design Guide”
  • good contrast between text and background
  • a white border to emphasise the sign
  • a matt finish to avoid glare

Position of signs

Consistency of sign height and position throughout the building is important. Signs should be placed between 1400mm and 1700mm for visually impaired persons when standing. For wheelchair users signs should be placed between 1000mm and 1100mm above floor level. Signs associated with control panels, e.g. lifts or door entry systems should be located between 900mm x 1200mm, to meet the needs of both wheelchair users and people standing.

Designated Car parking

  • Parking bays and floor graphics – one space for each disabled employee plus 2% of available spaces.
  • disabled parking bay signs
  • directional signage to reception or other areas
  • contrasting bands of colour on posts or columns
  • door entry signs

Information Signage

  • The reception point should be clearly signed
  • signs indicating lifts, stairs, and other parts of the building
  • Facilities on each floor should be shown on landings and stairs
  • clear floor level signs in stair wells and by lifts
  • orientation signs in large buildings
  • directional signs, there and back
  • disabled toilets, telephones, induction loop signs, etc.

Escape Route Signage

  • General escape route signage may need to be enlarged
  • Fire Exit signs to include routes to disabled refuges
  • emergency evacuation lift signs
  • Clear signs from the building to the assembly areas

Compliance with the DDA is not about avoiding being sued or fined but about caring for staff and improving your service for everyone.

At the end of March 2006 there were 364,615 people in the UK who were registered as severely sight impaired (blind) or sight impaired (partially sighted) – RNIB. The Tactual Braille signs range from Stocksigns is the innovative and visually superior tactile signage system. Braille signs are capable of conveying fast, effective information to assist the visually impaired. They should be used to clearly identify exits, restrooms, entrances and other rooms for the visually impaired and also assist in way finding and navigation through your premises. Braille or Tactual Signs provide facility information in Braille for the visually impaired and also in bold letters and graphics for those who are not.

Braille Signs – Tactual from Stocksigns

The Stocksigns Braille signs range – Tactual – fully comply with Technical Bulletin 24 of the joint Mobility Unit. The JMU is a service provided by the RNIB and the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. Tactual signs may be manufactured to suit individual needs including a range of text options, panel colours and layouts. We can advise you on your own legal obligations and ensure that your workplace is complying with the appropriate regulations. Braille can be incorporated into your corporate signage to extend the audience range and the reach of your signs. Braille can be included in information and tourist interpretation boards to extend their accessibility and contact points, such as emergency assistance points, with Braille offer help to vulnerable members of the public.

Stocksigns only supply Braille signs that we manufacture ourselves. As a result not only can we be sure that they are of the highest quality but also that we have the technology and expertise to manufacture any custom made sign with Braille to our own specification.

What to look for in Braille Signs

When choosing braille signs from any supplier make sure they have the following features:

  • Wide spaced, raised text.
  • Highly durable, accurate, grade 1 Braille.
  • Braille locator.
  • Low gloss surface, high contrast colour range.
  • All safety symbols conform to BS 5499-5:2002 and ISO 7010

We also supply many other types of disability signs, including disabled parking signs and induction loop notices for the hard of hearing.

Help protect your staff or family with the Stocksigns Smartsign™

The award winning Smartsign is designed for use on surfaces changing from cold to hot, immediately warning people of a dangerous hazard and helping reduce accidental burn injuries.

– Displays the word ‘HOT’ when the surface temperature reaches 50°C / 122°F

– Designed to “BS 5499 part 1” and conforms to the “Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996”

– Used in both domestic and industrial environments. Ideal for items that remain hot even after being switched off and the user might assume it has cooled down.

Smartsign Applications

Appllications include water heaters, fan heaters, generators, boilers, motors and hundreds of machines/appliances. It is designed for surfaces that regulate temperatures within the range of -30°C and +90°C away from direct UV light.

Smartsign Case Study

Care Unlimited, a group of care homes in Surrey, have had Stocksigns Smartsigns installed.

Surfaces within the homes that change temperature such as water heaters, oven doors, kitchen appliances and machinery have had the signs applied. The signs display the word “HOT” when the surface is above 50°C / 122°F. This sign is particularly useful for Care Homes as children and the elderly are at a higher risk to burn injuries due to sensitive skin.

Reza Shamtally, Care Unlimited Partner comments, “Smartsign is cost-effective and clever in design. It will no doubt help minimise unnecessary burn injuries within our care homes for employees and clients”.

Stocksigns can manufacturer a wide range of commemorative and memorial plaques and nameplates including engraved plaques, etched plaques, vitreous enamel, screen printed plaques, cast aluminium, slate and other natural materials. So whether you are looking for a professional nameplate or heritage sign we can guide you through the choice of materials and manufacturing techniques to make your ideal plaques. 

Here are some factors to think about when choosing your Memorial Plaques:

  • When choosing memorial plaques first work out what text you want to include. The shape of the plaque can depend on the length of the text line. For example, an oval shaped plaque will only accommodate long lines of text in the middle of the sign, where as rectangular or square plaques are suited to where there are long lines of text at the top or bottom. By including braille on your memorial plaques you extend your signs accessibility to the visually impaired.
    • The choice of material is also equally important. Cast signs or signs mounted on a wooden back plate are ideal as presentation plaques. Stainless steel gives a modern feel while polished brass is often the preferred choice for professional services nameplates. The engraving and etching process add depth and texture to your sign. The use of a time-honoured natural stone such as slate creates a distinguished looking durable sign.
 


 

www.stocksigns.co.uk 

Stocksigns the health and safety signs and custom made signage manufacturer
Stocksigns for all your signage needs

As the days lengthen and the temperature rises, so does one’s enthusiasm for taking the bicycle out of the shed and setting off down country lanes, along old railway lines or taking the cycle paths or lanes that are now available to make cycling both more enjoyable and above all safer – safe for both cyclists themselves, as well as other users of the public highways.

Bike safety – bike accessories & cycle routes

Obviously we have to make sure our own bicycles themselves are safe, before pedalling off – tyres, chains, bike lights, cycle helmets and brakes all need to be checked. After that we have to look at our own cycling safety particularly on Public roads and especially in the presence of large vehicles. Nowadays you can see special cycle safety signs on the back of lorries warning of the visibility problems that drivers can have if you get too close.

Secondly, cyclists should use dedicated lanes or pathways (which should be clearly marked with “bicycle only” signs) both for their own safety and out of consideration for others. Life can be so much more relaxed and enjoyable with a bit of common courtesy – ‘do as you would be done by’ is a useful mantra. This cuts both ways of course, and motorists have not only to respect specific cycle routes but more generally need to be aware of other road users, as do cyclists in relevant circumstances. Sometimes exclusive cycle parking locations are provided. Please use them for the security of your own property at the very least.

It goes without saying the law and Highway Code needs to be obeyed. Don’t cross traffic lights at red, for example, or ride more than two abreast. Above all everybody should use their own common sense.

Safety is the responsibility of every road user, and this coupled with politeness, can make the outing, however short, on self powered two wheels an enjoyable and life-enhancing experience- On your bike!

For more information on road signs and bike safety signs visit our on line traffic signs shop or call 01737 77 40 72.