SignWorks, Inc. is currently involved in several evacuation map projects, many in Oakland and one in San Leandro. What is particularly important with these types of projects is that we perform a detailed site visit. It is not enough to understand the Fire Department guidelines because the Fire Marshall has lots of discretion and can add additional maps to a given space if the exit or egress path could be misinterpreted or is confusing. Our technicians are sensitive to the guidelines and potential for incremental maps.
The typical site visit not only identifies the number of maps required but allows the technician and design staff to know the placement of things like alarm pull stations, hoses and extinguishers. These items and other details are identified by the location specific symbols that are placed on the map and allows fire safety staff to chart their exit path and/or the location of essential fire-fighting tools.
The site visit is used to verify both the physical aspects of the property and to confirm the specific city’s fire department regulations and compliance details. Over the years we have found that the floor plans provided by our clients are not always completely accurate, so the site visit (or survey) offers a fresh pair of eyes to verify the location of rooms, stairs, elevators, exits and the like.
The guidelines in Oakland and San Leandro call for a map area that is 12” by 12” but the addition of the building address, symbols and text means that the maps are a little larger. At SignWorks we have standardized on 14” by 14” maps unless the client or building contractor decides to make them even larger. The guidelines call for the use of non-glare lens for these maps to ensure that in a fiery or smoky situation that the maps remain easy to read.
Some building projects also require a site visit, especially when a sign is being mounted high above the ground and the measurements need to be confirmed beforehand. The visit allows us to obtain accurate measurements and identify any potential problems with a building’s surface long before installation day. SignWorks attempts to hold down costs by renting specialty equipment only when needed, whether it’s a small scissor lift or a 60-foot articulating boom. By eliminating the cost to own and maintain expensive equipment, we are able to provide the best value for our customers.
SignWorks has been doing evacuation maps and fire safety signage or over ten years. If you are in need of expert assistance with an evacuation, fire safety or building sign project, please contact us immediately at (510) 357-2000 or complete the contact form at our website. While there you can learn more about us and our projects or view recent blog posts and photographs.