UFC 3-120-01
FEBRUARY 6 2003
other means.) The design of these supports must conform to the Standard Specifications for
Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires and Traffic Signals, published by the
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).
12.9.2. Usage of Connectors. In locations where breakaway or yielding sign supports are required
it is recommended that breakaway connectors such as slip base connectors or load concentrating
couplers be used for signs likely to sustain frequent damage. This will permit sign replacement
without replacement of the footing.
12.9.3. Local Standards. Air Force installations may use either the breakaway or yielding sign
supports specified in this pamphlet or sign supports meeting the appropriate standards of the state
in which they are located.
12.9.4. Slip Base Connector. A welded breakaway connector used on steel posts. See Figure
12.10.
12.9.5. Load Concentrating Coupler. A breakaway connector used on both steel and aluminum
posts. This connector is mechanically fastened to the post so that no welding is required.
However, it is more expensive than the slip base connector. See Figure 12.10.
12.9.6. Soil Embedment. Soil embedment of aluminum or wooden posts to a depth no greater
than 1 070 mm (3'- 6") (without concrete foundation collars, soil bearing plates, or anchors)
qualifies for the signs shown in this pamphlet as a yielding sign support under federal
regulations.
12.9.7. Recommendations. In summary, both slip base connectors and load concentrating
couplers are effective, but expensive. Less expensive devices will be available in the future, but
these designs are the best available at this time. Soil embedment is inexpensive, but can only be
used in certain parts of the country and may cause maintenance and durability problems.
Perforated signposts are approved by the Federal Highway Administration, but they do not have
the proper appearance for the exterior signs in this pamphlet and are not recommended.
Section 12C--Freestanding Exterior Signs Specifications
12.10. Finishes.
12.10.1. Paints. Paints furnished under this specification shall be products that are included on
the applicable GSA Qualified Products List. Colors shall conform to Federal Standard No. 595a
as shown in paragraph 2.18 of this pamphlet.
12.10.1.1. Qualified alkyd, acrylic, epoxy or urethane enamels may be used.
12.10.1.2. Prime coats and other surface pretreatment shall be applied as recommended by
the manufacturer.
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