Convention centers are huge places. While you may know ahead of time where your seat is located, you may not know much else of the layout inside such a massive building. Add to that, there are many different levels, and it’s easy to see how visitors can get themselves turned around in no time. Aside from wayfinding signs, one of the most important types of sign in every building is bathroom signs.
Usually, visitors are there for a specific reason and don’t access the convention center on a regular basis. They are not at all familiar with how everything is laid out and need help wherever they are in finding their way to an exit, an entry door, concession stands, cafes, information centers, lobbies, and bathrooms.
It’s of vital importance that bathroom signs be readily available to every visitor at a public building and especially in a building as large as a convention center.
Here are some things you need to consider when thinking about creating a bathroom signage package for your building:
- Compliance standards. Public signage has to be designed and installed to meet ADA regulations. There are accessibility standards that must be met and these include the use of graphic symbols, the size of graphics, contrasting colors, and how high these signs are mounted.
- Visibility. Bathroom signs are usually secured to a door or if that is not possible, then to a wall adjacent to the bathroom area. Depending on the physical layout of the convention center, there may be overhead signage you will want to consider. Hanging signs are wonderful for visibility over great distances.
- Durability. Because bathrooms in large centers are always in use, and by many people at once, you will want bathroom signs to be durable, tough, and easily cleaned by staff.
- Appearance. All bathroom signs should be uniform across the entire convention center. Signs should be of the same color and text, so they become recognizable to visitors who are there. You do want signs that do not detract from the interior of your building in color and style, while remaining functional.
- Bathroom signs include other information. Aside from just pointing the way to where bathrooms are located, bathroom signs also point out handwashing instructions, disposal of waste materials, and general information. These signs need to be durable and changed out periodically.
At James River Signs, we would love to discuss your convention center needs with you. Give us a call or email us today for quotations on projects of any size.