Expert: Sharon Toji - 8/4/2011

Question
Can you comment on the following section from the IBC and the related question down below:

1007.10 Directional signage. Direction signage indicating the location of the other means of egress and which are accessible means of egress shall be provided at the following:
1. At exits serving a required accessible space but not providing an approved accessible means of egress.
2. At elevator landings.
3. Within areas of refuge.
Can you describe exactly what sort of directional signage would be provided within an area of refuge? This section of the code seems to imply that you would provide a plan or map of some sort within one area of refuge that directs someone to some other accessible means of egress or area of refuge (vs. a directional arrow or something). Is this a correct interpretation? What sort of directional signage within an area of refuge would be typical?

Answer
I love the fact that, although various people from the IBC know that the ANSI Standards Committee has a sign person (me) as a member, they write this vague stuff and leave everyone guessing!

I think the easiest way to (sort of) fulfill this requirement is to provide what we call "Evacuation Plans." These plans show the floor plan, with corridors clearly outlined, and interior spaces shaded in (no details such as  walls or doors are needed -- simple and easy to see is best). A "key" is provided, and the "You Are Here" symbol would be placed within the Area of Refuge on the wall where the sign is to be installed. A bold dotted green arrow pathway would lead to accessible means of egress.

I'm not quite sure what these would be on upper floors, unless the elevators were the type that could be used in an emergency. I don't know of any accessible means of egress except on grade level.

The only other interpretation would be, as you suggest, that it would direct to other Areas of Refuge. Why? Maybe this one is filled up with wheelchairs already? Maybe you can't enter it because an earthquake or fire has blocked the entrance? But then, how would you see the sign if it's inside the Area of Refuge?

These are questions I don't think the people who wrote this code ever asked themselves!

So, I just suggest that you do your best by providing a very clear, high contrast floor plan, that shows a bold path marked from the location to other Areas of Refuge when they are not on the egress floor, or, if the elevator is the new type that will function during an emergency, I suppose it could direct to the elevator.

On the egress floor, of course it's much easier, because there are undoubtedly accessible means of egress on that floor, even if one or two exits are not accessible.

I hope this is of some assistance. Please contact me at htoji@cox.net or 949 929-6512 if you have other questions.

Sharon Toji