If you need to create your own signs — or make changes to the
ones in this sign kit —
here are a few tips:
Laminating the large signs
Lighter laminates than the ones we've recommended may be
less expensive but do not work as well. Lighter laminates
will curl in wet weather. It is best to use at least a five millimeter laminate for non-mounted signs;
this will provide the strength to secure the grommets in the laminate and not
into the poster.
Laminating vs. mounting
We tried laminating (and not mounting) all the 14"x11"
signs with a heavyweight laminate. This did not work for
signs placed in the top
sign holders. The standard foam core thickness of 1/4" does work, but 1/8"
is more effective.
PVC pipe sign holders
The height of the signs for "Steps 1-4" needs to be at least six feet to ensure
they may be easily seen above a crowd. We designed a
PVC pipe holder because we
could not find a commercial holder in this size.
If you need to cut the pipe to size, pipe-cutters are
available for under $20 at most hardware stores. Petroleum jelly
may be used on the joints prior to assembly to help with disassembly.
Use zip ties to secure the signs to the PVC sign holder.
Optional signs
Large "step signs"
The four "step signs" in the 22"x28" size are optional
but should be used in large medication centers. These signs help reinforce
activities in the main areas of a medication center, and help
to assure visitors they are in the right place. We used inexpensive metal sign holders
that are not meant to be disassembled after each use. If you
choose to use this type of holder, store them fully assembled to avoid stripping the screws.
Parking
Parking and foot traffic signs are not included in the
basic sign kit but are recommended. These basic signs
are available at most hardware stores.
White-boards
Consider purchasing erasable white-boards to meet
unforeseen sign needs.
