UFC 3-120-01
FEBRUARY 6 2003
Chapter 11
INTERIOR SIGNS
Section 11A--Introduction
11.1. General Information. Interior signs should complement interior architecture and color
schemes if at all possible. Since buildings vary a great deal, interior signs will also vary. The
standards discussed here apply to buildings that do not have custom designed interior signs and are
also intended to serve as a guide for the design of all interior signs. This chapter gives the standards
for interior signs, including information on size, appearance, message, permitted graphics and layout.
11.2. Color. Standard brown or any dark color appropriate to the interior environment of the specific
building may be used.
11.3. Design Parameters. All interior signs should be designed so that they require the minimum
possible maintenance. The sign system should be flexible enough to adapt to frequent personnel
changes and office relocations. The system shown here is designed to guide visitors through a
building from the entrance point to the correct floor, the correct area of a floor, the correct office and
(if appropriate) the correct desk.
11.4. Standards. All interior signs should follow these standards for system organization, sign types,
and sizes. Variations in types of hardware and colors are permitted. These signs are designed to be
compatible with the signs shown in the GSA Manual on the Design of Sign/Symbol Systems for
Federal Facilities.
11.5. Mounting. Mounting options will vary with each system. For facilities or functional areas that
require frequent removal and replacement of interior signs, consider the use of hook and loop
fasteners, such as Velcro . A hook and loop attachment system allows for easy sign removal and
replacement when frequent sign changes are required, does not require skilled labor and minimizes
damage to wall surfaces.
11.6. Sources. There are many commercial sign systems available. There are usually national and
local manufacturers of interior signs in most metropolitan areas. There are also many sign-making
machines available.
11.6.1. References. Refer to the most recent version of the National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and the NFPA Life Safety Code Handbook for the design
and placement of all signs relating to means of egress and other life safety issues. Refer to
Chapter 3 for the design and placement of all signs relating to the Americans with Disabilities
Act.
Section 11B--Interior Sign Types
11.7. Main Categories. Like exterior signs, interior signs are standardized by function. The four
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