Storage & Handling
This guide serves to highlight the important aspects of reflective sign storage and handling.
General Storage: Signs should be handled, transported and stored to protect the sing face. Signs should be stored vertically with edges clear of the ground.
Indoor Storage: Storing signs indoors is preferable. Moisture should not come in contact with the sign face. Packing that becomes damp or wet should be removed immediately. Steps should be taken to ensure signs are not stored in areas of high temperature and humidity.
Outdoor Storage: Signs stored outdoors should be unwrapped, stored upright and sit on wooden battens. A racking system ensures sign faces do not become damaged by signs resting against each other and allows adequate air circulation which prevents a build up of moisture.
Sign Transportation: Large direction signs should be braced with stiffeners (ribs) to avoid buckling and adequately supported and secured to avoid damage due to scuffing, abrasion and load shifting.
Sign Erection: Once on site, signs should not be laid flat on the ground as it can result in damage to the reflective sign face. Bolts should be tightened using offset spanners. Avoid over-tightening. Nylon washers should be used between the bolt head and sign face. After installation, signs should be inspected to see that they have not been damaged and are free of oil and dirt residue.
Sign Covering: The covering of signs is not recommended. If it is necessary to cover a sign then a porous cloth should be used allowing air circulation, and then only for limited periods. Do not use paper or plastic covers as heat and moisture entrapment can cause permanent damage to the reflective sign face.
Sign Cleaning: For maximum performance signs should be kept clean and free from dirt, road tar, oil, bituminous material and mulch. Cleaning with a wet, detergent type non-abrasive cleaner is recommended. Following the use of any cleaning agent, the sign face should be thoroughly and immediately rinsed with water. Care should be taken not to abrade the sign face.