MIL-HDBK-1191
21.3.1.2 Wayfinding systems and interior signage should be designed to
help patients and visitors find their way from their entry point in the
building to the services and departments they need, directly and without
confusion. A sign hierarchy consisting of the following types, shall be
considered, depending on the facility size:
a. Main directory
b. Orientation maps
c. Secondary directories
d. Directional signs
e. Department identification signs
f. Room identification signs
g. Maintenance identification tags
h. Information, regulatory and code signs, to include fire
evacuation signs
i. Elevators and stairs
j. Distribution Zone Identification
21.3.2
Flexibility. The signage system must be flexible and
adaptable as room functions change, to preclude the user from being
required to purchase new signs every time a room or department changes or
relocates within the facility. Changeable inserts may not always be the
most user-friendly means to accommodate functional flexibility for
signage. Signage systems that provide another means of accommodating
changes (flip-up sections, entire cover removable, etc) should be
investigated.
21.3.3
Installation and Maintainability. Signage must be able to
withstand some degree of abuse from the users of the facility. Minimize
systems which use components that can be removed without special tools.
Signs must be installed in such a way that they are permanently attached
to the substrate, yet capable of being removed without requiring
significant wall repair after removal of the sign. Limit the use of
double-sided adhesive mounting directly to walls/substrates. A Plexiglas
wall mounting plate may be provided in lieu of double-sided adhesive.
21.3.4
Signage Types.
21.3.4.1
Main Directory. Once inside a building, the first
requirement for directional signs is to orient a person to the building
in general. A directory located just inside the lobby usually serves
this purpose. Building directories and, if required, accompanying
orientation maps for the medical facility, shall be developed jointly by
the design team and the Using Agency. An overall building directory
should be placed at each major patient and visitor lobby area. All major
departments and services shall be indicated. Directories may be free-
standing kiosks if they become more visible to people who might be
entering from various directions within a lobby area. Lettering on
directories should be secure and easy to change, yet present a
professional appearance.
21.3.4.2
Orientation Maps. If orientation maps are required, they
shall be part of the interior signage package and provided by the same
manufacturer. Orientation maps shall be positioned so that building left
is viewer left. Include a "You Are Here" reference to assist the viewer
with orientation. Identify locations of the emergency department, public
toilets, public telephones, information, and parking areas on the
orientation map. Use international symbols where appropriate. North
arrows shall be provided on all orientation maps.
21-3
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