SignWorks is proud to be a trusted name in the San Francisco Bay Area for creating high-quality, code-compliant evacuation maps. Our expertise and commitment to safety have earned us repeat clients like Azari Property Management and many local property owners in Oakland, CA. With several evacuation map projects currently under review, we’re excited to continue delivering accurate, reliable solutions for building safety.

In this blog, we’ll discuss our process for creating evacuation maps, highlight why clients trust SignWorks, and explain what code compliance means for properties in both Oakland and San Francisco.

 

Current Evacuation Map Projects

SignWorks is actively working on multiple evacuation map projects, showcasing the trust property managers and owners have in our services.

Azari Property Management

  • Scope: We are creating evacuation maps for eight different properties managed by Azari Property Management. These properties range in size and complexity, requiring careful attention to detail.
  • Pending Approvals: Another eight separately addressed properties are currently under review, reflecting the scale of our ongoing work with this client.

Oakland Property Owners

  • Local Focus: In Oakland, we are assisting a property owner with evacuation maps for their residential building. The project focuses on ensuring clear and easy-to-follow escape routes for tenants while adhering to Oakland’s fire safety regulations.

 

Code Compliance: What It Means for Oakland and San Francisco

Evacuation maps are not just a safety tool—they are a legal requirement in Oakland and San Francisco. Both cities have strict fire safety regulations to protect building occupants in emergencies.

Oakland’s Code Compliance

In Oakland, evacuation maps must align with the requirements outlined in the California Fire Code (CFC). Key elements include:

  • Clearly marked exits and stairwells.
  • Accurate placement of fire extinguishers and alarm pull stations.
  • Clear assembly point designations for safe regrouping outside the building.

The Oakland Fire Department reviews evacuation maps to ensure that building occupants can quickly navigate to safety in emergencies. Failing to meet these standards could result in fines or delays in property management operations.

San Francisco’s Code Compliance

San Francisco goes a step further with additional city-specific regulations. The San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) requires:

  • Precise orientation of maps to match building layouts.
  • Accurate labeling of emergency equipment.
  • Durable, easy-to-read materials resistant to wear and tear.

San Francisco’s dense urban environment means clear evacuation plans are even more critical, especially in multi-story buildings. Properly designed maps reduce confusion and save lives during emergencies such as fires or earthquakes.

 

Why Clients Trust SignWorks for Evacuation Maps

SignWorks has earned a reputation as a reliable partner for evacuation map design, offering tailored solutions that meet fire safety codes while exceeding client expectations.

  1. Expertise in Local Fire Codes

We have an in-depth understanding of the fire safety regulations in Oakland, San Francisco, and other Bay Area cities. This knowledge ensures that our evacuation maps:

  • Fully comply with local and state fire codes.
  • Accurately identify all required safety elements.
  • Reduce the risk of non-compliance penalties for property owners.
  1. High Attention to Detail

Evacuation maps require precision and accuracy. Every element—from floor layouts to orientation arrows—careful review of building plans and egress routes to confirm floor plans are accurate.

  • Designing user-friendly maps with clear symbols and labels.
  • Ensuring accurate measurements for installation.
  1. Proven Track Record

We’ve successfully completed evacuation map projects for a wide range of properties, including:

  • Residential buildings.
  • Commercial offices.
  • Schools, hospitals, and retail spaces.

Our continued partnerships with clients like Azari Property Management reflect the trust we’ve built in the Bay Area.

 

Our Process for Creating Evacuation Maps

SignWorks follows a structured process to deliver accurate and compliant evacuation maps:

Step 1: Building/Floor Plan Verification

We start by reviewing floor plans and sometimes conduct on-site surveys. This ensures we capture:

  • Exact exit locations.
  • Placement of fire extinguishers, alarms, and other safety equipment.
  • Unique building features that could impact evacuation routes.

Step 2: Design and Layout

Our design team creates evacuation maps that are:

  • Clear and easy to understand with standardized symbols.
  • Compliant with both Oakland and San Francisco fire codes.
  • Customizable to reflect client branding if desired.

Step 3: Client Collaboration

Before finalizing the maps, we work closely with our clients to review every detail. This step ensures accuracy and provides an opportunity for feedback.

Step 4: Printing and Installation

We use durable materials like acrylic or aluminum to produce long-lasting evacuation maps. For clients who need installation services, we ensure proper placement for maximum visibility.

 

Materials and Features of Evacuation Maps

Our evacuation maps are designed to withstand the demands of high-traffic environments while maintaining clarity and visibility. Key features include:

  • Durable Materials: Acrylic and aluminum backing for longevity.
  • Anti-Glare Coating: Ensures readability under various lighting conditions.
  • UV-Resistant Printing: Protects against fading over time.
  • Custom Frames: Available for a professional and polished look.

These features make SignWorks evacuation maps ideal for busy commercial or residential properties.

 

The SignWorks Advantage

SignWorks stands out in the Bay Area for our commitment to quality, compliance, and service. Here’s what makes us a preferred choice for evacuation maps:

  • Local Expertise: We understand the unique regulatory landscape in Oakland and San Francisco.
  • Customization: Every map is tailored to the specific needs of the property.
  • Timely Delivery: We prioritize efficiency without compromising on quality.

 

A Continued Partnership with the Bay Area

As we work on projects for Azari Property Management and Oakland property owners, we remain committed to supporting the fire safety needs of the Bay Area. Our evacuation maps are not just compliant…they’re designed to save lives and provide peace of mind.

Whether you manage a single property or a portfolio, SignWorks is your go-to partner for accurate, code-compliant evacuation maps.

 

Conclusion

Evacuation maps are a critical component of building safety, especially in cities like Oakland and San Francisco, where strict fire codes protect tenants and property owners alike. With a proven track record and a focus on compliance, SignWorks continues to deliver top-quality solutions for the Bay Area.

If you need evacuation maps for your property, contact SignWorks today. Let’s work together to create a safer environment for everyone.