Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access · Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access Contents Introduction 1...

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Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access A Guide to Good Practice

Transcript of Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access · Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access Contents Introduction 1...

Page 1: Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access · Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access Contents Introduction 1 Chapter 1 Signage Principles 2 1.1 The role of signage in outdoor access 2 promotion

SignageGuidance for Outdoor AccessA Guide to Good Practice

Page 2: Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access · Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access Contents Introduction 1 Chapter 1 Signage Principles 2 1.1 The role of signage in outdoor access 2 promotion

Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access

ContentsIntroduction 1

Chapter 1 Signage Principles 2

1.1 The role of signage in outdoor access 2promotion and management

1.2 Legal context 3

1.3 Communication essentials 7

1.4 General principles of signage 10

1.5 Sign types 11

Chapter 2 Planning for Signage 12

2.1 Know your audience 12

2.2 Management requirements for signage 13

2.3 How many signs and where to put them 14

2.4 Making a plan: signage strategy and local 16signage plans

2.5 Consultation: who should you talk to 18

2.6 What should signs look like: fonts, colours 21and language

2.7 Different signs for different places 25

2.8 Installing signs 33

2.9 Maintenance 37

Chapter 3 Advisory Signage 40(including Warning and Information Signs)3.1 Assisting responsible access 40

3.2 Managing shared use through signage 42

3.3 Is signage for single use management 44appropriate

3.4 Signage for accessibility 45

3.5 Supporting land management operations 47

3.6 Hazard warning signage 52

3.7 Advisory signage for water users 55

3.8 Protecting nature conservation interests 57

3.9 Cultural heritage sites 60

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Chapter 4 Directional Signage 61

4.1 Finger posts 62

4.2 Waymarking 65

4.3 Orientation panels 69

4.4 Location of directional signage 71

4.5 Directional signage for water users 74

Chapter 5 Further Information 75

5.1 Contacts 75

5.2 Sign manufacturers & suppliers 77

5.3 Image and graphic acknowledgments 78

Chapter 6 Information sheets 79

6.1 Basic timber waymarker post 79

6.2 Timber directional waymarker post 80

6.3 Timber finger post 81

6.4 Standard steel finger post 82

6.5 Timber map panel frame 83

6.6 Timber map panel frame with roof 84

6.7 Angled timber map panel frame 85

6.8 Steel map panel frame 86

6.9 Angled steel map panel frame 87

6.10 Standard hazard warning signs 88

6.11 Standard generic hazard warning sign 89

6.12 Comparisons of sign materials 90

6.13 Hazard management (worked example) 94

Glossary 96

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Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage • Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access 1

Introduction

Signage is one of the most importanttools for the management of responsibleaccess. It is first and foremost a simpleand effective method of communicationbetween the people who own or manageland and water and those who takeaccess on it. Signs offer an obviouswelcome and have a significant role toplay in promoting paths and encouragingand supporting people in their use. Thiswill help everyone to take accessresponsibly and allow land and accessmanagers to carry out operations safelyand provide opportunities for everyone toenjoy the outdoors.

Outdoor access signage falls into twocategories: advisory and directional and this publication will look at bothcategories. Advisory signage is aboutletting people know what to expect,providing information about factorsaffecting access or guidance onresponsible behaviour. Directionalsignage is about route finding and coversany sign which helps people find theirway to, or along, a path or route.

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003(the Act) has fundamentally altered thelegal basis for outdoor access inScotland. Everyone now has accessrights to most land and inland water,subject to their responsible behaviour.Land managers also have a duty underthe Act to use and manage landresponsibly in relation to access rights.To reflect and support these newarrangements, important, but subtle,changes are required in how access andland managers communicate with users.The introduction of the Scottish OutdoorAccess Code (the Code) sets outguidance which provides advice onresponsible behaviour by both users andaccess and land managers.

People may exercise their access rightsin parks, greenspaces and the widercountryside, for recreational or for

everyday functional purposes such asgetting to work, school or for healthwalks. The new approach promoted bythis guidance asks land and accessmanagers to think afresh about whatinformation users need to make informedchoices, and how best to communicatethis through signs and other means. It is the quality of the communication thatwill be a key factor in the successfulmanagement of outdoor access, and inrealising the benefits of the accessarrangements brought into effect by the Act.

This guidance covers all aspects ofoutdoor access signage and is aimed ataccess staff, countryside rangers, landmanagers, community groups (includinghealth walk co-ordinators) and anybodyinvolved in path or site management. Itsupersedes and greatly expands on theadvice given in the Advisory SignageGuide published by Paths for All andScottish Natural Heritage (SNH) in June 2007.

This guide is divided into sectionscovering the different aspects of signageas follows:

Chapter 1 – general principles of signageand setting the legislative context towhich signage should apply

Chapter 2 – when to use signage andhow to plan and ensure signs are fit for purpose

Chapter 3 – advisory signage for hazardmanagement and promotion ofresponsible access

Chapter 4 – directional finger posts,waymarking and orientation panels

Chapter 5 – further information includingorganisational contacts

Chapter 6 – information sheets whichoutline text format and layout, use ofmaterials, standard sign designs andexamples of hazard warning signs.

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Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • A Guide to Good Practice

1

1.1 The role of signage in outdooraccess promotion and management

1.2 Legal context

1.3 Communication essentials

1.4 General principles of signage

1.5 Sign types

Chapter 1

Signage Principles

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Signage has a pivotal role in promotingthe benefits of path use and encouragingparticipation in the outdoors as well asenabling land and access managers topositively manage access. The ScottishGovernment’s strategic objectives(www.scotland.gov.uk/About/purposestratobjs) of increasing healthand wellbeing, promoting active traveland encouraging greater awareness ofour environment require new andinnovative ways of promotion in order to reach all sectors of society. Signagehas a major role to play in achievingthese objectives.

Good signage is an important tool thathelps people to behave in a responsiblemanner. Irresponsible behaviour oftenresults from a lack of knowledge orbecause information about preferredroutes or behaviour is not readilyavailable. The key challenges are to beable to communicate successfully with awide and diverse range of audiences, toeducate and to change behaviour. In thepast, attempts have been made to simplyexclude unwanted audiences, often withlimited impact on the people concernedwhilst unnecessarily restricting manylegitimate and responsible users. Underthe Act we are asked to find moresuccessful and less restrictive solutionsand signage has a substantial role to play.

Signage is one of the most obvious waysof promoting opportunities for outdooraccess. It can raise awareness of theexistence of individual paths or networkswithin urban and rural environments,

presenting them in a positive andwelcoming light and encouraging accessto be taken on these routes. It is one ofthe most effective ways of giving peoplethe confidence to enjoy their local area.Positive and welcoming signage is also a valuable tool for land and accessmanagement. Directional and advisorysignage encourages access users to usepaths and routes preferred by land andaccess managers, for example, guidingaccess users away from sensitive areas,or from places where there is concern fortheir safety; although people will not beobliged to use them in most cases.

Signs usually offer limited space forconveying information and it is importantto recognise their constraints when usedalone, particularly as promotional tools.Advisory signage can require skilledwriting, design and careful onsiteplacement to make it effective. It shouldbe seen as one of the tools in the toolkitof communication methods (for exampleleaflets, events, information boards) forsuccessful access promotion andmanagement. This needs carefulplanning and the time required to do thisshould not be underestimated. ThePaths for All and SNH publication‘Promoting Paths for People - aMarketing Guide and Toolkit’ coversoutdoor access promotion in more detail: www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

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This chapter introduces general principles which apply to all aspects ofoutdoor access signage and describes the influence of key legislation. It is a good starting point for anybody who is considering the use of signs whetherin an urban or rural environment.

Chapter 1 Signage PrinciplesChapter 1

1.1 The role of signage in outdoor access promotion and management

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1.2 Legal context

When considering signage, relevantlegislation must be taken into account. The most relevant legislation is brieflyoutlined below. For a fuller guide referto the SNH document ‘A Brief Guide toLaws relevant to Outdoor Access inScotland’: www.snh.org.uk

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 andthe Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Under the Act land covered by accessrights, including paths, is available to allresponsible non-motorised use includinga vehicle or vessel which has beenconstructed or adapted for use by aperson who has a disability. The mostimportant change since the Act is theremoval of any segregation betweendifferent user groups. Before the Act apedestrian Right of Way may have beensigned for walkers only and barriers putup to exclude horses and cyclists. Now,where access rights apply, signs mustbe compliant with the Act and Code -i.e. they must not deter or discouragelegitimate responsible access (s.14 ofthe Act), and as defined by the Code.Inappropriate wording or symbols canact as a barrier to people exercisingtheir access rights. For example,excluding horse access by using a signwith a horse symbol with a red circleand diagonal line through it, ordiscouraging cyclists by using the word‘footpath’, is not consistent with theethos of the Act or the Code - see ‘Signsymbols’ within Section 3.2.

With this in mind consideration shouldbe given to the following:

• Use the word ‘path’, ‘trail’, ‘way’ or‘route’ rather than ‘footpath’,‘cyclepath’, ‘bridlepath’ or ‘walkway’

• Avoid, where possible, ‘private’, ‘keepout’ and ‘no entry’ (see also Section3.5 ‘Supporting land managementoperations’)

• Where restrictions on motor vehiclesare required use wording such as ‘no unauthorised vehicles’ or ‘nomotorcycles’.

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Some exceptions: Shared use in a road corridor

• Footways (as described in trafficlegislation) adjacent to roads maybe for pedestrians only (includingpeople using aids to mobilitysuch as electric scooters) and apedestrian symbol may beappropriate for reinforcement

• Road sign legislation demandsthat footways designated ascombined pedestrian and cycleroutes use a pedestrian andbicycle symbol

• Details of symbols, text, coloursand designs are available fromthe local Roads Authority. TheSustrans publication ‘NationalCycle Network Guidelines andPractical Details’ also has acomprehensive guide to on-roadsignage for non-motorised use:www.sustrans.org.uk

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Signs can help people take informeddecisions to make the most of theiroutdoor experiences. The Code stresses that people:

• Should be responsible for theiractions

• Respect the interests of others

• Care for the environment.

Advisory signage should containinformation that helps people tofollow these principles.

Use the content of the Code to helpcreate signs, and take quotes from it. Be careful not to take text out of context or to inadvertentlychange the meaning of any quote.Further advice can be found in‘Writing Positively and using theAccess Code brand’ on the website:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

Signage Principles

Using the Scottish Outdoor Access Code branding

The Code branding is a very useful promotion tool and its use is encouragedto endorse any Code compliant product or publication.

Visit www.outdooraccess-scotland.com for further details.

Note that the branding is NOT recommended for use on directional signage as people are not usually required to follow signed routes under the LandReform (Scotland) Act 2003.

Promoting understanding of the Code

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The Disability Discrimination Act 2005 (DDA)

The DDA demands that managers ofaccess do not unjustifiably discriminateagainst those who are disabled orotherwise have a mobility or sensoryimpairment. The Disability Equality Duty(DED) was created as part of the DDAand places a duty on all public bodies ortheir agents to provide for disabledpeople. Signage should be as readableand accessible as possible. Section 3.4‘Signage for accessibility’ providesfurther details. For more information onDDA and DED see the Scottish DisabilityEquality Forum: www.sdef.org.ukand for managing inclusive access seeFieldfare Trust: www.fieldfare.org.uk

Health & Safety at Work Act 1974

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003conveys no extra liabilities on landmanagers and stresses that access istaken at the users own risk. However,land managers have obligations underthe Health and Safety at Work Act 1974to carry out their day-to-day businessoperations in a manner that ensures thegeneral public are not exposed to risks,so far as is reasonably practicable.

Landbased industries such asconstruction, agriculture and forestryhave specific health and safetylegislation applicable to them and willrequire specific safety signage. Otherlegislation relating to, for example,contaminated land or industrialprocesses may also have specificguidance or duties in relation to healthand safety; it is always important tocheck. For further information regardinghealth and safety legislation look at theHealth and Safety Executive’s website:www.hse.gov.uk

British Standards relating to Health & Safety Signage

Hazard warning signs must comply withBritish Standard (BS) 5499 ‘GraphicalSymbols & Signs’ and the Health andSafety (Safety Signs and Signals)Regulations 1996. These regulationshave brought into force the Europeanequivalent, EC Safety Signs Directive(92/58/EEC) on the provision and use ofsafety signs at work. BS 5499-1 requiresthat new safety signs comply with shape,colours and layout specifications. BS5499-5 deals with signage with specificsafety meanings. For example, a hazardwarning sign should be a triangle withblack border and symbol with at least50% yellow background area (seeInformation Sheet 6.11). The use of pictorial symbols on all safetysigns are tested to ensure that theycommunicate their intended messageeffectively. The design and creation ofsymbols intended for safety signs haveto comply with BS 5499-6. If you areplanning to make a new symbol for aspecific hazard, which is not alreadyavailable, you must conform to theabove standard. Also considerapproaching a safety sign designer tohelp you with this task. There are safetysign companies who can design andmanufacture to your specificrequirements.The Standards and Regulations referredto above relate to Health and Safety atWork obligations. You should considerwhat extra information is required andinclude it with the safety sign to helpaccess users understand the nature ofrisk and what you want them to do toavoid the situation.

For further information on hazardwarning signs and hazard management

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Signage Principles

refer to Chapter 3; and for furtherguidance on safety sign standards andregulations look at the Health and SafetyExecutive’s website: www.hse.gov.ukand the British Standards Institutionwebsite: www.bsi-global.com

Occupiers Liability (Scotland) Act 1960

The legal position on liability is largelybased on this 1960 Act and commonlaw. Under the 1960 Act, an occupier hasa duty to take reasonable care to makesure that people entering the land that isunder their control will not suffer injuriesor damages arising through negligence.For any case to succeed under the 1960Act, it must be shown that:

• The person who allegedly caused theinjury or damage owed a duty of careto the person who was injured orwhose property was damaged

• This duty was breached by a failure totake reasonable care

• The failure caused the injury ordamage.

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003states that: 'The extent of the duty ofcare owed by an occupier of land toanother person present on the land is not…affected by this Part of this Act or byits operation’ (s. 5.2 of the Act). The onlyexception to this is where a Path Orderhas been made, which would theninvolve the access authority.

The existing legal position establishedunder the 1960 Act therefore remainsunchanged. Considerations will continueto include the reasonable duty of care,the nature of any dangers, thecharacteristics of the visitor, willinglyaccepted risk, etc, as explained in theGuide referred to below. One of the

Code’s three central principles is to ‘Takeresponsibility for your own actions’ andthe Code itself provides substantialinformation about what this means inpractice. The provisions of the Code maybe a consideration when assessingissues of care and liability relating to theexercise of access rights.

For details and practical examples of theOccupiers Liability (Scotland) Act 1960,refer to the SNH publication ‘A BriefGuide to Occupiers’ Legal Liabilities in Scotland in relation to Public Outdoor Access’ available from theOutdoor Access website: www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

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Quality counts

The quality of communication betweenland managers and access users is akey factor in the success of initiatives toencourage outdoor access, protect theenvironment and facilitate safe landmanagement operations.

New technology is revolutionising theway we communicate and methods arebecoming increasingly sophisticated.This does not mean that there is nofuture for signage, as often the simpleapproach is the most effective, but itdoes need to be done well to beeffective.

Points to consider:

• The audience - who are they, what dothey want or need to know and howbest can that information beprovided?

• Think about the key message(s) to be communicated

• Think of the ways to communicatethis message to your audience andmake a judgement as to whether ornot signage is the most appropriatemedium. Is a sign required at all?

• Think through who, what, why, when, how, where, to make sure youhave not forgotten anything crucial toyour message

• Capture people’s attention -incorporate signage into otherfeatures such as seating andsculpture. Once you have theirattention it is much easier tocommunicate your message

• Make signs positive - people tend torespond far better to positive, politeand friendly messages

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1.3 Communication essentials

A new beginning

Since the Act, communication with access users is more likely to be aboutconveying information on which peoplecan base their own decisions, rather thandirecting a particular course of action.This approach requires some freshthinking about the information peoplerequire to make informed choices andhow best to communicate with them through symbols, maps, leaflets, websites and signage.Access authorities and land managershave developed diverse approaches tosignage that have reflected local situationsand sometimes produced innovativesolutions. From a user’s perspective thisdiversity of signs can add to theexperience of being in a particular location- a ‘sense of place’. Conversely, the rangeand variety of formats can be confusingwhen travelling between different areas orland managed by different managers. Over the next few years many accessauthorities and other access providers will be signing new paths and reviewingexisting signs for compliance under theAct. Because of this, the signposting andpromotion of core paths across the wholeof Scotland presents a unique opportunityto address some of these issues. Locallydistinct signs in terms of design andmaterial are to be celebrated, however,the experience of access takers can bemade less frustrating and more enjoyableby ensuring the information that signsdisplay is consistent. We hope that byfollowing the advice in this guidancedocument, people who manage andpromote access can help to make theoutdoors more accessible, welcoming and better understood.

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• Humour (cartoons, slang etc) can be really effective but must be usedwith care. It has to be audienceappropriate as it has the potential tooffend or be misunderstood

• Use standard safety signs for healthand safety issues, if appropriate (seeChapter 3)

• Consider people who cannot read (or cannot read English), people of allages or those with a sensoryimpairment

• Avoid lists of do’s and do nots - it maynot be Code compliant and somepeople do not like being told what theycan or cannot do and so may simplyignore the sign. Try to explain thereasons why people are being asked tobehave in a certain way

• Keep it simple - people generally do not want to spend time readingthrough reams of information. Makemessages short, simple and concise - they will be far more effective

• Locate signs where your targetaudience can not miss them. Pinchpoints (e.g. bridges or gates) or placeswhere people congregate make signsmore difficult to miss. Avoid placeswhere cars or vegetation can block the view

• Some people will never comply with signage. Consider othercommunication methods or media,either on their own or in combinationwith signage. The alternative methods or media may help to reinforce the message that the signage is trying to convey.

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Signage Principles

For further guidance on using communication and writing positively to encourageresponsible and shared use of the outdoors see SNH outdoor access website:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

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Always choose the most effective meansof communication to convey yourmessage. This will vary and severalmethods will be required. As anexample, consider a popular path whichhas been closed by a landslip. Tocommunicate the information to as manypeople as possible use a variety ofmedia. For instance, a news item in thelocal paper or on the radio, a notice inthe local visitor centre or library and onthe path promotion website. Temporarysignage, if required, should be installedat the main access points including anydiversions, and finally immediately beforethe hazardous area.

These communication essentials applyto advisory signage as much asdirectional signage. The followingchapters cover the specifics of advisoryand directional signage but in all caseswe will refer to these fundamentalcommunication essentials.

Information or interpretation?

There is an important difference betweeninterpretation and information, but both should be based on soundcommunication principles. Informationsticks to the facts, but interpretationreveals meanings and relationships.Interpretation should:

• Provoke curiosity and interest

• Relate to the everyday experiences of your audience

• Reveal a memorable message.

Interpretation should add to a visitor’sexperience, helping people to a newunderstanding. Above all, it shouldmake people think. This mightsometimes mean being controversial, butif you send your visitors away buzzingwith discussion about your place, that’sno bad thing! Some signs will need aninterpretive approach to be successful,others may not. Whatever sort of signyou need, thinking ‘interpretively’ fromthe start can really help get yourmessage across.

For more information:The Scottish Interpretation Network: ‘A Sense of Place: An interpretiveplanning handbook’ Tourism &Environment Forum (1997):www.scotinterpnet.org.uk

Interpret Scotland: ‘What have we gotand is it any good?’ Highland InterpretiveStrategy Project (1999):www.interpretscotland.org.uk

SNH Policy Framework on Interpretation‘Provoke, Relate, Reveal’ (2001):www.snh.org.uk

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Take the right approach - will a sign be effective?

‘Do you need a sign?’ should be the firstquestion. Signage is only one of manyways of communicating with accessusers and can be an effective techniquefor delivering simple messages, however,other forms of communication, such asmaps, leaflets, websites and user groupnetworks are essential to conveying morecomplex messages. In order that themessage is understood, it may need tobe delivered by a combination ofcommunication techniques. Section 1.3‘Communication essentials’ providesfurther advice.

Sign selectively

It is important to get a message acrossbut also to avoid over signing. An excessof signs will create unnecessary clutterand can be intrusive, confusing and maydilute your message, whilst also creatinga maintenance burden. Use signage if it is the most effective way ofcommunicating a message. If several

signs are needed in one location,rationalise their design and installation sothat they are consistent and coherent. Ifpossible, work in partnership with othersto reduce the number of signs and sharecosts.

Make messages positive andinformative

People want to feel welcome in theoutdoors and respond best to helpfulinformation. Make wording polite andfriendly, use humour where appropriateand inform people of reasons for, andduration of, temporary closures,diversions and other problems which mayaffect an area or path.

Humour is a great way of getting peopleto read a message, however, use withcare as it can be confusing ormisinterpreted if too colloquial.

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Signage Principles

1.4 General principles of signage

There are three general principles which aim to encourage good practice in outdooraccess signage:

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Advisory signage is about letting peopleknow what to expect. It might provideinformation on a route or area of land, orcould describe physical barriers whichaffect accessibility, provide guidance onresponsible access or inform users ofspecific high risk land managementoperations such as forestry activities,crop spraying, slurry spreading or a bullin the field. Advisory signage is coveredin Chapter 3.

Directional signage is about routefinding. It covers any sign which helpsusers to find their way to or along a path or route. The three basic types of directional signage are finger posts,waymarkers and orientation panels.Chapter 4 covers directional signage.

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1.5 Sign types

Signs can fulfil a variety of purposes. For clarity we have classified signs into twocategories: advisory and directional.

Signage Principles

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Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • A Guide to Good Practice

2

2.1 Know your audience

2.2 Management requirements for signage

2.3 How many signs and where to put them

2.4 Making a plan: signage strategy and localsignage plans

2.5 Consultation: who should you talk to

2.6 What should signs look like: fonts, coloursand language

2.7 Different signs for different places

2.8 Installing signs

2.9 Maintenance

Chapter 2

Planning for Signage

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The key to good communication is toknow and understand the audience thatyou wish to address. Appreciating theirneeds and what motivates and intereststhem will help to ensure that signage isappropriate, targeted and, mostimportantly, effective.

It is essential to be sure of your audienceand be clear what messages you aretrying to communicate. This may beobvious but, if not, market research mayhelp. For example, a sign about dogfouling needs to get the message acrossto dog owners and not canoeists. Thereare some simple techniques for this,which can be found in the Paths for All and SNH ‘Promoting Paths for People - a Marketing Guide and Toolkit’,available from the website:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

Access users

Access users are the key audience buttheir needs can vary. They includewalkers, cyclists, horse riders andcanoeists. However, many other forms of non-motorised users exist includinghorse drawn carriages, paragliders,climbers, skiers, windsurfers and dinghysailors. These people may be exercisingtheir access rights for recreational or foreveryday functional purposes such ashealth walks or routes to work or school.When considering signage within eitheran urban or rural setting, the abilities ofall users should be considered.

Visitors to Scotland also are a significantaudience, particularly in scenic, ruralareas and in and around popular cultural, historical and commercial sites.Therefore, think about language andcultural differences when planningsignage in those areas.

Planning for SignageChapter 2

Planning can ensure signs will be most effective. This chapter outlines whenand how signage can be used and also covers some basic design issueswhich should be considered - good planning is the key.

A fit for purpose sign:

gives the right message at the right place

2.1 Know your audience

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Land and access managers

Signage can play a valuable role inintegrating access with land managementpractices as well as helping to fulfil dutiesunder health and safety legislation. Signsare often permanent fixtures, but in termsof land management operations,temporary signage, used sparingly andonly when necessary, has an importantrole to play. However, to be effectivetemporary signs need to be removedonce the activity has been completed.The principles of ‘minimum area’ for the‘minimum amount of time’ should beapplied. Section 3.5 ‘Supporting landmanagement operations’ covers issues specific to land management and signage.

Signs, whether permanent or temporarycan help to:

• Enable day-to-day activities tocontinue without disruption orhindrance

• Integrate access with landmanagement operations across an area

• Minimise risk to all users exercisingresponsible access, or, if required,limit access during short periods ofextraordinary works

• Enable all users to take appropriateaction for their own safety

• Convey accurate up-to-dateinformation relating to the activitybeing carried out

• Communicate the Code to users - thecontents of the Code can help tocreate advisory information signs, butshould be used in context

• Identify ‘at risk’ areas, and highlightdisruption, temporary closures and re-routed routes

• Enable effective communicationbetween access user groups and landmanagers, thereby limiting conflict.

The SNH publication ‘Signs Guidance for Farmers and other Land Managers’provides the most up-to-date information for advisory signageprovision for land managementoperations. This guide is available freeand can be downloaded from:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

For specific signage advice relating toparticular land and water basedrecreational activities or landmanagement operations, contact therelevant representative organisation - see Section 5.1.

2.2 Management requirements for signage

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�Planning for Signage�

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A balance must be struck betweenhaving sufficient signage to advise andinform people as well as avoidingcluttering a place up with signs.However, the ideal frequency and style of signage can vary greatly between one path and another, depending on thesituation. Similarly, when consideringthe general right of access to land orwater, it may only be desirable to signkey access points, the need for whichwill be very site specific.

For these reasons develop a flexibleapproach about when and how to usesigns (directional or advisory; permanentor temporary). The reader is encouragedto assess their own requirements forsignage using the good practiceguidance in this publication - also seeSection 3.5 ‘Supporting landmanagement operations’.

Signs in rural areas

To be effective, signage needs to beclearly readable and visible. In somesituations, particularly in ruralenvironments, it is desirable to avoidsigns that are intrusive or out ofcharacter. These conflicting requirementsrequire careful consideration. Signagecan play an important role in landmanagement, encouraging users tofollow key routes and use specificaccess points to reduce impact on moresensitive areas, or during farming orforestry operations. It may therefore benecessary to accept the visual intrusionof signage in order that the specialqualities can be preserved. Carefulchoice of design and materials can also help to lessen the visual impact of a sign. Refer to Section 2.7 ‘Differentsigns for different places’ andInformation Sheet 6.12 for more detailson the use of materials.

2.3 How many signs and where to put them

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The same fundamental requirements areneeded for signage within an urbanenvironment as for rural areas i.e. signsthat are clearly readable, visible, and incharacter with their surroundings.Urban signage has a key role inconveying directional informationparticularly for functional everydayaccess. In addition, the oftenconvoluted nature of short paths androutes and their multitude ofconnections, means that urban signagehas to be sufficient to meet the diverseaspirations of both functional andrecreational users. This can be achallenge, requiring careful thought and planning. Ease of maintenance,materials and design are all keyelements that need careful considerationat the planning stage. Also see ‘Roadcrossings’ within Section 2.7.

Signs in urban areas

Tackling antisocial behaviour is a greatchallenge and simple solutions rarelyexist. In the majority of situationssignage alone will do little to changepeople’s behaviour. Effectivecommunication with the people involvedin antisocial behaviour requires carefulthought and sometimes innovativeapproaches. Trying to find out whatmotivates them to behave in the waythey do is the first step to take. Face toface contact and positive approaches tothese problems have been proven to beeffective. Attempts at regulation andenforcement may at best simply pushthe problem elsewhere and at worstincrease the problem as perpetratorsrespond to a challenge. However,sometimes this is the only option andthe police may need to be involved. For further guidance on influencingbehaviour and managing people seeSNH outdoor access website:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

Tackling antisocial behaviour

Getting the message across – more signs now, fewer signs later?

Signage can and will play a key role in promoting understanding of the Code. As theAct is still a relatively new piece of legislation, more signage which reinforces the keyCode messages may be desirable during the initial years. As understanding growssigns could be reduced or removed. Therefore, it should be accepted that signagein the short term, although seen as possibly intrusive and contrary to the principle of selective signing, may result in reduced signage in the future.

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There are two levels of sign planning thatwill help you to develop a co-ordinatedand coherent approach. Typically asignage strategy will cover a large areasuch as an access authority and willinvolve discussion between interestedparties, and working in partnership with appropriate agencies, to agree howthe needs and aspirations are to beaccommodated whilst providing userswith signage that makes sense and iseasy to use across the area. A signagestrategy will enable you to agree ground rules, upon which local plans can develop.

A local signage plan will cover a smallerarea such as a Country Park, an estate,path network or community project; andshould help reasoned judgements to bemade on local implementation - whatsigns are suitable and where to placethem. It should be possible to produce alist of sign specifications for manufacturefrom your local signage plan.

Therefore, it is not necessary for everyland manager to have their own plan, but might be helpful for those managinglarger areas such as an estate; but it isimportant that they are consulted duringthe development of a local signage plan.

Fife Council and itsLocal Access Forum have produced adesign guide whichprovides guidance onthe use of logos,directional signage,design and advisorysignage wordingand usage.

Points to consider when developing asignage strategy / local signage plan:

• Current situation - what sort of signsare already in use and who are the keystakeholders

• How and where signage is usedincluding wild land issues whererelevant

• Key features in an area i.e. visitorattractions such as view points,historic / archaeological sites orfacilities such as shops, publictransport hubs, schools etc

• Standard designs may be appropriateso that anyone planning signage in anarea has a template to guide them.The use of local designs and materialsshould be accommodated, so do notmake this too prescriptive

• Use of logos of funders andorganisations, as well as route logos

• Linking local path networks to nationalroutes (such as the National CycleNetwork or Long Distance Routes)

• An action plan to get the work done

• How you might deal with selectedpromoted routes

• Monitoring and evaluation.

2.4 Making a plan: signage strategy and local signage plans

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Logos and branding

The use of logos on signage can createa great deal of debate. Logos are usefulon long distance routes or for pathnetworks where particular routes arepromoted. They help users to keep onthe correct route as well as providing abrand identity to assist with marketingand promotion. Often funders andaccess providers wish to display theirlogos on signage in order to promote their contribution or involvement with aspecific route or path network. Thisshould be resisted, as it may confuse ordetract from both the readability andusability of the sign. Consider separateinformation leaflets or a section on thearea’s website as being a better place for this information.

Appropriate wording

A signage strategy is a good place tointroduce consistent wording. Ratherthan terms such as footpath, walkway orcycleway which are not within the spirit of the Act; the word ‘Path’, ‘Track’,‘Trail’, ‘Route’ or ‘Way’ are advised.‘Public Path’ is not necessary as allpromoted paths will be covered by eitheraccess rights, an access agreement (forexample, through land where accessrights do not apply) or a Right of Way. Itis generally accepted that Rights of Waycan be signed as ‘Right of Way’ as this isa specific type of path with a legaldefinition and a historical reference.Similarly, there are many historic pathsacross Scotland with their own namesand use of these names should becelebrated, for example, Jock’s Road. It is common for local path networks to

name particular routes in the network aspart of their promotion. In this case allthat is required is that the aboveconsiderations should be observed. For example ‘Waterfall Path’ rather than‘Waterfall Walk’. This may seemunnecessarily pedantic, but, in terms ofthe spirit of the Act and promotion of theCode, it is a subtle, but crucial, reminderthat, where access rights apply, allresponsible non-motorised use isappropriate.

For further guidance on appropriatewording and writing positively toencourage responsible and shared use of the outdoors see SNH outdoor access website:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

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Consultation is a key part of signplanning. It is essential to consult users,potential users, access authorities, land managers, public, private andvoluntary organisations. Consultationwill help to deliver the best results andlimit potential conflict betweeninterested parties.

Identifying users and determining their needs

To avoid unnecessary signage and tomaximise its use, it is important tounderstand who the users are, why theywant to be there and how they will beusing the area, e.g. walking or cycling,and what information they need - seeSection 2.1. A wealth of information canbe obtained by simply surveying thepeople who use the area. However,those who do not currently take access,or do not take access responsibly,should also be targeted as part of theconsultation to find out what would helpchange their behaviour or encouragethem to use the area.

For further information refer to the Paths for All and SNH ‘Promoting Pathsfor People - a Marketing Guide andToolkit’, available from the website:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

2.5 Consultation: who should you talk to

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Many health walking projects havebeen the primer for establishing asigned local path network. TheGorbals Healthy Living Initiative inGlasgow worked with the localcommunity to sign five routes anddevelop a leaflet with the aim of'repopulating the streets’. Aprogramme of volunteer led healthwalks introduced locals to walkingopportunities on their doorstop.After a period of massiveregeneration, options for walkinghad changed as old routes wereclosed and new routes introduced.Living Streets Scotland carried out a'street audit' that helped to developthe maps and signage. Many partsof the Gorbals were not used bypeople due to fears about personalsafety. The Community Policeand Community Safety Partnershipworked with the team to ensure thatthe routes chosen were suitable. Thesigns were erected on lamp postsand colour coded. The walks maphighlighted points of historicalinterest, as well as religious centresand key transport links. The StFrancis Centre, a local community'hub', was included in most routes.The map used in the walk leaflet wasthe same as a 'community map'designed to introduce new residentsto the wealth of community activityin the area. By developing a range ofmaps for one community using the

same base map and graphics,residents were able to buildconfidence in using the map toexplore their own community. For further details see:www.pathsforall.org.uk

As with any such signing project, the access authority should beconsulted at an early stage. For access contact details:www.pathsforall.org.uk/outdooraccess/contacts.asp

Paths to Health – establishing walking projects across Scotland

Paths to Health promote walking for health across Scotland and offerproven approaches to influencing people’s behaviour through community,workplace and health care settings.

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Local knowledge

Local people will know their own areabest and can be a useful source ofinformation, such as where signs arerequired, which areas may be prone tovandalism and the location of hazards.In particular, land managers will knowtheir land intimately and are a greatsource of information when planningsignage. Consultation enables people to take ownership of the signing processand can help to avoid conflicts ofinterest, as well as adding value to the project.

Planning permission

Many signs can be installed without theneed for planning permission. However,some signs may require consent beforethey can be erected. If you are unsurewhether planning permission isnecessary, contact the access authority.Arrange to have an informal discussionwith an Access Officer or PlanningOfficer at the earliest opportunity. Theywill advise you whether permission isrequired, and what needs to be done toobtain the necessary consent to installthe signage.

Local Access Forum

Local Access Forums should be involvedin the development of a signage strategyor local signage plan. They may also beinvolved if signage is being consideredto address an access issue, for whichthey have been asked for advice.

Disability representation

Local Access Panels exist throughoutScotland, representing the interests ofdisabled people. Local Access Panelsadvocate the removal of physical barriersand the promotion of equal access to the built environment and the outdoors.The Access Panel may also be consultedand can help to plan signage. TheScottish Disability Equality Forum (SDEF)will have contact details of the nearestAccess Panel: www.sdef.org.uk

Roads authorities

Signage installed within a road corridor,either at the start of a path or where thepath runs parallel to the road, should belocated in accordance with roadregulations. Installation approval must besought from the relevant roads authority.

The standard steel finger post signdescribed in Information Sheet 6.4 issuitable for use in a road corridor. It ispossible to use timber signs if they arelocated on a verge rather than on oradjacent to a footway or carriageway, but this is subject to approval by thelocal roads authority.

The Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984:www.statutelaw.gov.uk/ Home.aspx

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Can everyone read your sign?

Consider who will be reading the signand from where. A sign at a mainaccess point will be read by stationarypeople who are fairly close, whereas a waymarker may need to be read by a cyclist or jogger from a distance andmoving at speed. The Fieldfare Trust‘Countryside for All’ Good PracticeGuide provides information on wordingand text design in order to maximisethe accessibility of signs:www.fieldfare.org.uk

For further good design guidance formaking signage accessible and forother accessibility methods for blind orpartially sighted people, refer to theRoyal National Institute of Blind People(RNIB) website: www.rnib.org.uk

2.6 What should signs look like: fonts, colours and language

It is essential that a sign is legible to users. Text style and size, the contrast betweentext and background, language and design are crucial factors for a sign to beeffective.

Font style and size

Choosing the correct font style, layoutand size is crucial to ensure a sign isreadable.

Points to consider:

• A sans serif font is advised andpreferably Arial. This one is the mostreadable by people with visualimpairments and learning difficulties

Arial• Use mixed case (sentence case)

• AVOID USE OF CAPITALS IN CONTINUOUS TEXT(People will think you are shouting!)

• Do not cram lettering• D o n o t s t re t c h l e t t e r i n g• Ensure adequate line spacing

• Justify text to left typically or right if a sign layout demands it. Do notjustify text across a page, the unevenword spacing reduces readability

• Do not place text over photos orpictures. Insert in a plain box instead

• For a standard finger post blade atsuitable height up to 2.5 metres, font text size should be ‘Path’ 150point and destination and distance100 point

• For information signs, hazard warningsigns and orientation panels, font textsize should be 20 point minimum.

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White lettering against a dark green or dark brown background givesgood contrast

Black lettering against a dark background provides poor contrast

Black lettering, symbol and border against a standard yellowbackground gives good contrast for hazard warning signs

Colour and contrast

Contrast between the letter colour and the background of the sign is asignificant factor in making the information clearly visible.

Black Lettering against a dark background gives poor contrast – here is thesame sentence again to illustrate this:

Black lettering, symbol and border against a standard yellow background gives good contrast for hazard warning signs:

If different colours are to be used on a sign ensure they will not confuse thosewho are colour blind - avoid using the following colour combinations:

• red/yellow/green

• red/black

• blue/green/purple.

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Language

Most signs in Scotland are likely to be inEnglish. Use plain English with correctgrammar, except where doing somethingdifferent will help you to make a point.Choose wording which is precise andclear to avoid any possible confusion.Slang or colloquialisms can add to thelocal character of a sign but may confusevisitors, so use with care (particularlyimportant for hazard warning signs).

Other languages – The use of otherlanguages may be appropriate dependingon the message and location of the sign, although care must be taken toavoid multi-lingual signs becomingcluttered and less easy to read. Anunderstanding of who will be visiting anarea and what information they need willhelp to decide whether other languagesmay be required.

It is advisable to seek advice from theaccess authority, and relevant serviceproviders to ensure accurate languagewording. Equality Scotland’s multilingualwebsite is a useful resource for thoseconsidering use of other languages:www.equalityscotland.com

Gaelic – There is an increasing desire touse gaelic in everyday communications,particularly in the north and west ofScotland. When planning signage it isadvisable to seek out access authority,and relevant service providers, policieson the use of Gaelic on signage, in orderto embrace local or regional standards.

For example, further information:Highland Council Gaelic Language Plan: www.highland.gov.uk

Braille – Providing braille needs someconsideration. People need to be alertedto the presence of braille signs or theyare unlikely to find them. Tactile surfacesor other clear indicators may be needed.The RNIB can provide further guidanceon the use of braille: www.rnib.org.uk.Also refer to the Fieldfare Trust‘Countryside for All’ guide:www.fieldfare.org.uk

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Design

There are a diverse range of designoptions for signage. In many cases,simple solutions using traditional designswill meet most people’s requirements.However, signage has been incorporatedinto features such as gates or fences tomake them eye-catching, uniquedesigns. The information sheets inChapter 6 give details of standarddesigns which will suit a range ofcircumstances and environments.

Key points to consider are:

Robustness – A sign may need to bestrong enough to withstand vandalismand people leaning on them. It must be correctly installed so that there is no danger of it falling on somebody. In some cases a sign may need towithstand the effects of livestock (whomay use a sign as a handy scratchingpost) as well as the effect of wind, rainand snow.

Durability – A permanent sign may needto last for many years and still be legible.However, a temporary sign may onlyneed to last a few days. Careful choiceof materials, surface treatments andlocation will ensure a sign lasts as longas required whilst being good value.Section 2.7 ‘Different signs for differentplaces’ and Information Sheet 6.12 give further guidance on the choice of materials.

Easily replaceable – If signs do getdamaged, then the simpler they are to replace the lower the maintenancecost. For large artistic designs with insetpanels, make the panels simple to remove and replace. Either have astock of replacement panels or anarrangement with the printer to enablenew panels to be produced quickly. It isworth considering placing a bulk orderfor extra panels, which should attract adiscount, thereby ensuring a saving inthe long term.

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The look of signs often creates moredebate than the functionality. This is notsurprising, considering that signs areoften placed in attractive open space.The key phrase is ‘fit for purpose’. Inthe main, sign materials will probablybe a reflection of their location andenvironment. However, this may notnecessarily be the case, for examplewhere signs may have been carefullychosen to be at odds with the placeand stand out. It is the considereddecision making that is important, notalways making signs fit.

This section outlines the materials usedto make signs - timber, metal, stoneand a variety of forms of plastic.Temporary signs and the issue of roadcrossings are also covered. InformationSheet 6.12 highlights the strengths andweaknesses of some commonmaterials and helps to inform decisionson suitability for main setting.

2.7 Different signs for different places

Artistic designs

Some signs have designs which are a feature aswell as a source of information. Use of innovativedesigns and materials can make a sign morenoticeable and, therefore, make the message it istrying to communicate stronger. People will bedrawn to the feature and will be more likely to readthe information.

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Bold artistic sign - designed to stand out

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Materials

Timber

Timber is often seen as the ‘default’material for signage in rural areas. Inmany cases this is a reasonableapproach as careful selection of timbercan produce robust signs suitable formost locations. A sustainable resource,timber provides a versatile solution fordirectional signs in particular as it is aworkable material that can be used on its own or in combination with otherman-made materials. However, it can bea costly option in the long term becauseof the need for regular maintenance.

Non-treated or treated softwood andhardwood directional signs andinformation signs can be routed withlettering, arrow and disc recesses.Routed lettering and arrows are in-filledwith coloured external paint formaximum clarity, whilst routed discrecesses are housed with full colourscreen or digitally printed GlassReinforced Plastic (GRP) or aluminiumgraphics. These materials are durableand UV resistant. Information Sheets 6.1,6.2 and 6.3 provide more information onbasic timber waymarker posts,directional waymarker posts and finger posts.

Sandblasted timber signs may provide an opportunity to engage with a numberof audiences including those who arepartially sighted and children. The timberis sandblasted to produce large, tactilegraphics, maps and images for ease of use.

Finger post with routed text

Finger post with text on sign plate

Timber waymarker

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ScotWays steel / aluminium path sign

Metal framed interpretation panel

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Metal

Metal is often the material of choice forurban signs because of its robustness.The most basic metal sign comprises of a mild steel pole and an aluminium signplate clamped or bolted on, with eithergalvanised or powder coated finish. Highquality aluminium offers a light weight,rigid, hard wearing and cost effectivesolution. It can also be used to createunique and dramatic designs where amore artistic approach is required.

Whilst many consider metal to beunsuitable for rural areas, wheresimplicity and durability are required,metal has much to recommend it andshould not be automatically dismissed.Traditionally, cast iron was used - veryrobust and aesthetically pleasing butexpensive to manufacture, although long lasting. Directional finger posts,information and hazard warning sign text and images can be produced onaluminium panels using screen printed or self adhesive vinyl graphics and acidetching. Information Sheets 6.4, 6.8 and6.9 provide more information on standardsteel sign designs. Cast iron sign

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Stone

Using stone for a sign surround, or as amedium to carve text or images onto, can produce a sign that is attractive andfunctional. Stonework generally fits well ina variety of countryside or urban settings.Stone is robust, making it suitable inareas subject to vandalism. A stone signcan be integrated into another pathfeature such as a wall or seating area.Text and images can be carved, orsandblasted and painted on for a moreelaborate design. Like timber and metalsigns, printed panels can also be fixed toa stone surface.

Sandblasted stone sign

Stone orientation panel

Carved stone sign Panel bolted onto stone

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Recycled plastic

Recycled plastic, as an alternative totimber, metal and stone, is a relativelynew product. It has many positivebenefits which can make it a suitablematerial for use in the formal urban andurban fringe settings. It is also a suitablematerial for signs in either a rural orremote landscape settings as it isextremely durable. Like most materials,recycled plastic does have itsdrawbacks. For example, there havebeen a few situations where plastic signshave bent during hot weather. Carefulchoice of recycled plastic type and arobust structure are essential.

Recycled plastic, although initially quiteexpensive to manufacture (about threetimes as much as treated softwoods) inthe long term can be value for money. It is a ‘labour saving’ material withsignificant reduction in costs due toreduced maintenance and replacementrequirements. It can be worked in asimilar way to timber, with lettering,logos and arrow and disc recessesrouted and in-filled with colour externalpaints or housed with full colour screen or digitally printed GRP oraluminium graphics. Information Sheet6.12 provides further information onrecycled plastic.

Recycled plastic waymarker

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The length of time that a temporary signis needed will determine which materialto use. For very short term signs,laminated card or waterproof papershould meet requirements. Take carewhen fixing laminated signs making sureall nails or staples go through the plasticborder only. Where the plastic has beenpunctured with card or paper underneath,water will enter, resulting in ink runningand the sign impossible to read.

Where temporary signs are to be usedseveral times over a season, or everyyear for a period of time, investment in amore durable material like acrylic sheet,low-cost ‘corex’ (corrugated PVC sheet)or GRP should be considered. Thesematerials are strong, lightweight andweather-tight, can be screen or digitallyprinted on, and fixed easily to theintended support surface. They can alsobe easily written on using a waterproofmarker pen and wiped clean withturpentine or petroleum based spirit.

A series of ten standardised landmanagement sign templates, intended tobe used as temporary advisoryinformation signs, have been producedby SNH offering a quick and easyapproach to integrating access with day-to-day land management operations.Each template is based on a specificoperation for which land managers mostcommonly require signage: lambing,young livestock, shooting, landmanagement, woodland management,working farmyard, fire risk, field margin,wildlife breeding site and farm traffic.

A standard template means you do nothave to create a new sign for everyoccasion and allows for adaptation formost situations. Digital coloured PDFscreen size versions and black-and-whiteA4 versions of these sign templates areavailable free and can be downloadedfrom: www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

Warning sign on plastic

Temporary signs

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The sign templates should be used in conjunction with the guidancepublication: ‘Signs Guidance forFarmers and other Land Managers:using advisory signs to inform thepublic about your day-to-day landmanagement operations’.

This guidance is also available from:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

Land management sign template

National Park sign design package

The Loch Lomond and TrossachsNational Park Authority have anintranet based sign design packagewhich enables the Access Officersand Rangers to produce eithertemporary or more permanentadvisory signs for use by the Park Authority or other land managers.

The appropriate icon and wordingare selected and inserted into acomputerised standard signtemplate.

The final sign template can either beprinted and laminated for a quickcheap solution or converted to PDFfor sending to a sign manufacturerfor making GRP signs.

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Road Crossings

There will be many occasions when apath will cross or be alongside apublic road. In some places this willrequire additional infrastructure toensure that they can be used safely.

There are two options for providing asafe crossing point:

• Traffic light controlled e.g. ‘Pelican’or ‘Toucan’ crossing

• Advisory crossing

The type of crossing used dependson the road to be crossed, thenumber of people expected to usethe crossing and the amount andspeed of traffic on the road. Astandard risk assessment format isused to determine the appropriatecrossing type. Roads authorities willprovide guidance. Good signage is a key part of a safe road crossing. As well as informing users of thepresence of the road it is crucial toinform road users of the presence ofnon-motorised users. In the majorityof cases, standard road signs mustbe used in these situations. Theremay also be a need to install a barrieror chicane to slow people downbefore getting to a road crossing andprovide a physical structure that aperson with a visual impairment candetect before venturing onto the road.

There is guidance available aimed atcycling which can be used for otherusers e.g. walkers or riders. The Sustrans publication ‘NationalCycle Network Guidelines andPractical Details’ provides usefulinformation on the design of roadcrossings. Additionally, Sustrans

Information Sheet ‘Direction Signingon the National Cycle Network’ gives guidance about the NationalCycle Network signing:www.sustrans.org.uk

Also South East Scotland TransportPartnership’s (SEStran) publication‘SEStran Cycling Infrastructure:Design Guidance and Best Practice’provides guidance on road crossings:www.sestran.gov.uk

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2.8 Installing signs

Having carefully decided and planned for the signage, it is important to ensure that thesigns are located and installed correctly. Signs which are hidden by vegetation, pointin the wrong direction or are in an unsuitable location will be ineffective, misleading ordangerous. This section outlines some of the issues and potential pitfalls.

Finding a suitable site

When planning installation it is crucial tocarry out a site survey to ensure thatsigns are put in safely and that they arein the most effective place for users.

Points to consider:• Underground services – Avoid

installing on top of undergroundservices. As well as the health andsafety of those installing the signs,services may need to be dug up forrepair or replacement. The location ofunderground services are availablefrom the relevant companies e.g.Scottish Power, Transco, BT and thevarious cable phone / TV companies.Fire water hydrant valve locations,enclosed by cast metal coversembossed with the letter ‘FH’, areidentifiable by marker plates with theletter ‘H’. These can be found fixed toconcrete posts, street furniture andwalls. The number below the ‘H’ is thedistance to the hydrant, measured inmetres. The number above the ‘H’ isthe nominal pipe diameter. If you areunsure about the exact location of ahydrant, contact the local fire service

• Ground conditions – Try to avoiddeep peat or saturated ground - largerfoundations are likely to be requiredand even then the sign may loosenand timber is more likely to rot.Though bedrock is unlikely to beencountered in most situations, avoidif the plan is to drive a signpost intothe ground; but it can be ideal if youbolt onto it

• Accessibility – Signs with text, mapsor images, such as interpretation ororientation panels, must be accessiblefrom a path, car park or access point.Avoid steep slopes or steps (whichcould prevent many people fromreaching the sign), ensure there is a good firm, well drained surfaceleading to the sign and considerbarriers to prevent cars blockingaccess to the signs

• Visibility – Avoid places likely to beobscured by vegetation and ensurethe sign text is readable from adistance. A high sign may requirelarger text to be readable by someonein a wheelchair or by a young child.Make sure there is a good sight line onthe approach to a sign to give cyclistsor joggers plenty of time to both read itand stop (if required)

• Exposure – Avoid having signs facingsouth if possible - the sun will fadepaint and printed ink much quicker.Also avoid over-hanging foliage / treebranches that will drip water onto thesigns causing algae and moss growthand reduced lifespan

• User safety – Ensure finger postblades do not project out over thepath causing a potential hazard tohorse riders and children in child-carriers. Signs in or near to car parksshould be located away from turningareas to reduce the possibility of avehicle accidentally striking anddamaging the sign.

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�Planning for Signage�

Points to consider:

• Think about bolting sign blades tostone walls or timber fences, butcheck who owns a fence or wallbefore starting to drill holes in it

• Stone walls may be part of a listedstructure so seek advice from theaccess authority before attachingsigns. In the case of listed historicstructures contact Historic Scotland

• Existing structures may not be in thebest place to locate a sign. What maybe an obvious direction to you may bewrongly interpreted by others

• Never fix signs to living trees – this isdamaging to the tree

• Temporary signs can be fixed to fenceposts and other supports using nails,staples, cable ties or wire.

Sometimes it may be desirable to boltsign panels to rock faces or naturalboulders. This is not generally goodpractice due to the likelihood of causingdamage, but in some circumstances canbe an effective way of mounting a signpanel. Advice from the appropriate landmanager should be sought prior toinstallation. If the location is within adesignated site, i.e. nature conservationor historic site, advice must be soughtfrom the relevant agency e.g. SNH orHistoric Scotland.

What should a sign be attached to?

In most cases sign blades will be attached to a timber, metal or plastic post. Thisenables signs to be placed at optimum locations. However, if existing structures canbe used to attach sign blades then this may save money and reduce clutter.

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This may be the simplest and cheapestoption. Provided you have the necessaryskills and equipment, you are guaranteedthey will be in the right place andinstalled properly. However, installingsigns can be time consuming. Makesure you have the resources, the staffand the time. This approach is oftenadopted by community path groups whoturn the sign installation into a volunteerproject, attracting further funding andgenerating interest and a sense ofownership of the path network.

Using a contractor

If there are a lot of signs to install andinhouse resources are restricted, thenusing a contractor can be the bestoption. However, in order to get thecorrect signs in the right place, considerthe following points:

• Provision of accurate maps to indicate where signs are to go

• Place tags on signs with referencenumbers which refer to locationnumbers on an accurate map

• Do not rely solely on the map. Eithergo out on-site with the contractor to show them the locations or whenthe first signs are being installed toensure they are correctly sited

• If this is not possible, takephotographs of each installation siteand indicate on the photographswhere the sign should go and the

direction it should point in or beorientated. You will still need to checkat a convenient time that installationhas been completed satisfactorilybefore signing off the works

• Once signs are in place check they arecorrectly positioned, with sign bladesor arrows pointing in the right directionand are firm in the ground. Also checkeach site has been left tidy and safe.There should be no heaps of soil,stone or other materials left visiblebeneath the sign or around the site.

How to get signs installed

There are several ways of installing signs. Which option to use depends on how manysigns are being installed, the budget and where they are to be placed. Here are twooptions to consider:

Do it yourself

The Paths for All Factsheets give further advice on project and contract management:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

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�Planning for Signage�

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Installation details

The way a sign is installed depends onits design, materials and size.

Points to consider:

• The sign should be solid andimmovable to ensure maximumlongevity

• In most cases, posts can be wedgedin with rocks and firmly compactedsoil. Provide a cross bar at the base ofthe post to prevent it from being pulledout (refer to Information Sheets inChapter 6 for more information)

• It is not always necessary to concreteposts into the ground but it is goodpractice for large permanent signs.Concreting may be a requirement forsigns in a road corridor

• For timber posts, consider the use ofmetal shoes embedded in concrete sothat posts can be removed formaintenance or repair.

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Regular maintenance is essential toensure signs remain fit for purpose andto avoid large repair costs to signs thathave been neglected. Signs are animportant promotion tool for a route orpath network. Faded or damaged signsgive the impression of general neglect,may discourage new users, responsibleuse and thus encourage antisocialbehaviour. Missing or illegible signs maynot only spoil the experience for the user,but may also result in their loss ofconfidence in following the route.

When determining the maintenancerequirements for signs, some keyplanning questions should be consideredfully from the outset:

• Which signs are high or lowmaintenance?

• What are the maintenance tasks?

• When to maintain them and howoften?

• Who will inspect and maintain them?

• How much will it cost to maintain the signs?

So only install signs if they can beadequately maintained. In particular, thefollowing low maintenance designoptions should be considered:

• Where timber is specified, use oak orlarch to avoid the need to re-treatperiodically

• If steel is used, always specify agalvanised finish, as this form oftreatment limits corrosion. Galvanisedsteel can still be painted or powdercoated, if colours are required

• If you are looking for a maintenancefree solution, recycled plastic signsshould be considered. They require notreatment or painting.

Planning-in replacements

If orientation panels are required,make them easily replaceable.Equally, when purchasingwaymarkers or finger posts, eitherhave a stock of replacementsavailable which can be installedquickly, or have an arrangement with the manufacturer so thatreplacements can be producedeconomically and promptly.

2.9 Maintenance

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A poorly maintained sign

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�Planning for Signage�

Maintenance schedule

It is good practice to produce and adopta maintenance schedule to help manageand maintain signage as well as otherpath features. Well designedmaintenance schedules should consist ofan inspection regime and a list ofplanned maintenance tasks. Theseshould be realistic and capable ofkeeping an individual route or pathnetwork ‘fit for purpose’. They generallyhave the following characteristics incommon:

• Collect only relevant data that isneeded to carry out efficientmaintenance

• Ensure that inspection or maintenancetasks can be easily duplicated bydifferent people

• Regularly inspect and prioritise whichpaths and features requiremaintenance

• Use informative photographs that areindexed and referenced to their featurelocation

• Use digital technology (see overleaf‘Planning for maintenance - use ofdigital technology’) to collect thenecessary ‘live’ information to planand monitor maintenance tasks andrecord completed works.

There are a number of be-spokepackages which can be used inconjunction with hand held GlobalPositioning Systems to record all aspectsrequired for the maintenance schedule.If this is not available, the following basicinformation can be recorded onto a datamaintenance schedule sheet produced inMicrosoft™ Word, Access or Excel:

• Sign type – record a short descriptionfor each sign. For example, ‘timberwaymarker / routed green arrows’;‘recycled plastic finger post / routedblade / white lettering’

• Location – record the exact location of each sign. For example, ‘start ofgolf green path’. Mark the locations of signs onto a suitable scaled map or plan. This map or plan will helpthose who undertake the maintenancetasks to quickly locate the exactposition of damaged signs that needrepairs, or the site location for areplacement sign where the existingsign has gone missing

• Maintenance task – record a shortdescription / instruction that tells theperson inspecting or maintaining thesign what action is required. Forexample, ‘check sign is clear ofoverhanging vegetation, pointing in theright direction, and readable’; ‘checkfor damaged, loose or missing plasticarrow discs on post’. Recordnecessary repairs or replacement

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Planning for Signage

• Frequency – record ‘weekly’,‘fortnightly’, ‘monthly’, ‘bi-monthly’,‘annually’, or ‘on inspection of paths’.For example, you may choose toinspect all signs only once every year,so you record - ‘annually’

• ‘When to carry out particularmaintenance task?’ - record themonth or months that the task shouldbe carried out

• ‘Who will complete the inspection andmaintenance tasks?’ - record thepersons appointed to inspect andmaintain the signs: Access Officer,contractor or volunteer.

Planning for maintenance - use ofdigital technology

Scotland’s access authorities have eitherin-house or commercially developedcomputer based paths databases linkedto a Geographic Information System(GIS). GIS can be used to locate anindividual path or network of paths andthe features such as signs that requirecontinuous management andmaintenance. A computer based pathsdatabase linked to GIS can be used toplan maintenance tasks, monitor andrecord completed works andexpenditure.

The publication ‘Lowland PathConstruction - A Guide to GoodPractice’ provides further advice and information on maintenanceplanning, inspection, maintenance tasks, and resourcing and reducingmaintenance requirements:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

Reporting sign problems

Local path users may be the firstto encounter a maintenanceproblem. Encourage these usersto report problems easily andquickly. Publicise the AccessOfficer or Ranger Service contacttelephone number on orientationpanels and leaflets.

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3

3.1 Assisting responsible access

3.2 Managing shared use through signage

3.3 Is signage for single use management appropriate

3.4 Signage for accessibility

3.5 Supporting land management operations

3.6 Hazard warning signage

3.7 Advisory signage for water users

3.8 Protecting nature conservation interests

3.9 Cultural heritage sites

Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • A Guide to Good Practice

Chapter 3

Advisory Signage(including Warning and Information Signs)

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We have avoided providing standard wording for advisory signage aimed ataiding responsible access. Providing generic signs can dilute a message andmake it much less effective. Every site has its own circumstances so use theCode and the good practice in this guide to determine design, location andwording. Contact SNH for help with key issues and the provision of specificguidance: www.snh.org.uk

• In the majority of cases, advisory signscan be used to help people make theirown judgements on whether they cantake access responsibly. They shouldnot be used to prevent or deterresponsible access

• Avoid quoting large sections of theCode - use key messages only

• SNH and partners produce leafletsand posters which highlight Codemessages for specific situations.These are available from:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

• Avoid trying to give advice on the levelof use on paths, their susceptibility toerosion or damage from different usesas these depend on many variablessuch as the weather, time of year, timeof day and day of week. However, youmight say that the path is narrow andoften busy - so watch out for otherusers; this helps people to beresponsible

• Signs can help people who wish tobehave responsibly but maybe are notaware of the specific circumstances ofa site, for example, giving simpleguidance on the responsible way tolight and manage a fire in a popularcamping area. However, it is worthremembering that people who do notwant to act responsibly may ignoresuch signage

• Signs for influencing responsiblebehaviour should only be used as partof broader marketing approaches topaths promotion involving maps,leaflets, websites, user groupinformation networks and other media.Signs should be the end point of apromotion process, not the beginning.

The Code is the main source of information for users to determine what constitutesresponsible access. Advisory signage can help communicate the Code’s keymessages. Often a simple ‘know the code before you go’ message placed on trailhead panels, leaflets and websites, perhaps with a brief list of the key Codemessages, is all that is required. Chapter 1 gives details of using the Code on signs,but the following should also be considered:

Advisory Signage (including Warning and Information Signs)Chapter 3

Advisory signage helps users to act responsibly, to be aware of hazards andgives information about accessibility; in other words, information in additionto basic direction, destination and distance.

3.1 Assisting responsible access

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Advisory signage where access rights do not apply

In many cases advisory signs for thesesituations will not be required, forexample, building curtilages and areas ofprivacy around houses such as lawns,flower beds and sheds, as they will bereasonably obvious. However, helpfuldirectional signs, in combination withpath provision, will help people to avoidthese areas.

Reminder signs

Signs with messages such as ‘pleaseleave gates as you find them because…’and ‘please take your litter homebecause…’ are useful in helping tosupport the Code’s three key principles,and people are more likely to take note.They should be used selectively wherethey prompt the public to behaveresponsibly. However, be mindful of theproblems of excessive signage anddiluting the message, such as in theexample shown below.

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Advisory Signage�

Before the Act, different access usergroups were generally advised on whichpaths they could and could not use. Inmany such situations, signs displayingrecognised user symbols, e.g. walker,cyclist and horse rider, were used toindicate suitability for one particular usergroup, whilst discouraging other usergroups from using that route. One of themost important changes since the Act isthe lack of segregation between differentuser groups. Where access rights apply,signs must be compliant with the Actand the Code - i.e. they must not deterlegitimate access (under the Act), andnot discourage responsible access asdefined by the Code.

It is largely for users to decide whatresponsible use is in a given situationand for land managers to provide usefulinformation to help users make informeddecisions when taking responsibleaccess.

Sign wording

Inappropriate wording can act as abarrier to people exercising their accessrights. For example, the ability toexclude cyclists by using the word‘footpath’ is not compliant with the Act or the Code. With this in mindconsideration should be given to thefollowing:

• Use the word ‘path’ or ‘trail’, or ‘way’or ‘route’; rather than ‘footpath’,‘cyclepath’, ‘bridlepath’ or ‘walkway’

• Avoid, where possible, ‘private’, ‘keepout’ and ‘no entry’ (see also Section3.5 ‘Supporting land managementoperations’)

• Where restrictions on motor vehiclesare required, use wording such as ‘no unauthorised vehicles’ or ‘nomotorcycles’.

3.2 Managing shared use through signage

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Some points to highlight regarding theuse of symbols for shared use paths:

• Avoid using symbols on signs

• Existing symbols systems, which wereacceptable prior to the Act, can nolonger offer ready solutions formanagement of shared use which areAct and Code compliant

• The use of symbols to promote aspecific mode of use is contrary to the spirit of the Act, as this may inferthat a path may not be used by otheruser groups

• The use of a single symbol is toosimplistic to represent the full range ofabilities, aspirations and needs within auser group, e.g. from novice cyclists toextreme mountain bikers

• In the majority of cases, the use ofsymbols to prohibit particular types of use will not be Code compliant as themanager cannot readily determine whatwill be responsible use

• Specifically, the use of the statutoryprohibition signs (red circle with reddiagonal slash) is not Code compliantand should not be used

• Advising users on hazards orobstructions can be done using hazardwarning signs or text advisoryinformation signs.

Example of potential forambiguous messages whenusing symbols

• It could indicate that the routeis suitable for cycling

• It might infer that the route isnot suitable for other users

• It may suggest that otherroutes are not suitable forcycling

• This single symbol will not byitself provide sufficientinformation on what cyclingabilities the route is suited for

• It indicates a recommendedwaymarked route.

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Sign symbols

The use of symbols, such as those above, to specify a particular mode of use iscontrary to the spirit of the Act and the Code, as this may infer that a path may notbe used by other user groups.

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Advisory Signage�3.3 Is signage for single use management appropriate

Signing a path for a specific use is notconsistent with the ethos of the Act andthe Code. Also such an approach maypotentially undersell a path as many otherresponsible access user groups may beput off.

Occasionally however, health and safetyconcerns may dictate additionalmanagement and signage. A well knownexample is the Forestry CommissionScotland’s (FCS) 7 Stanes purpose builtmountain bike trails. Having other userson these trails is highly undesirable forsafety reasons - particularly the downhillsections. Instead, advisory signs make itobvious that it is a mountain bike trailwith serious safety implications for otherusers. It is the experience of FCS thatother users respect this approach anduse the specific routes created for them.Likewise, mountain bikers avoid using thetrails promoted for other users. No entrysigns have been placed on the one wayroutes to discourage cyclists using theroutes in the wrong direction and ‘Is thisthe trail for you?’ signs are placed at thestart of the single track sections. Thisprompts mountain bikers to check thatthey are about to use a route appropriateto their skills and abilities.

The Forestry CommissionCycle Code is widelypromoted at their sites.The key messages are‘expect the unexpected’,‘watch out for othervisitors’ and ‘to respectother users’, in line withthe Scottish OutdoorAccess Code.

Some country parks are looking to adoptsimilar approaches where there is veryhigh use of all types of user. The key isnot to tell people where they can andcannot go, but to indicate routes offeringspecific attractions to particular users.Similarly a number of health walk projectsare signing health walk routes andeffectively promoting them as walkingroutes suitable for people wishing to takethirty minutes of moderate exercise.

It is recommended that the marking ofcountry park routes, health walks etc,should aim to use either just a colour or abespoke logo design as the waymarkersymbol, which cannot then be confusedas having any wider implications overtypes of ‘authorised’ user.

This approach ensures signage andwording is compliant with the Act and the Code.

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3.4 Signage for accessibility

The key principle for providing goodaccess opportunities for disabled usersis to provide high-quality information tohelp them to make informed decisionson a path or area suitability. Advisorysigns can assist with this process but,in many cases, there may be too muchinformation for signs alone and soother means of communication may berequired, for example website use -see Section 1.3 ‘Communicationessentials’.

Consider what information (if any) isrequired and avoid stating the obvious.If a path heads up into a mountainousarea most people will assume the pathwill reflect the terrain - rough and steep!Signage to this effect is not necessary.However, if an easy access path isprovided in such an environment, informusers of this as they may not expectsuch a facility.

Here are the key features that affectaccessibility:

• Access barriers (e.g. kissing gates and stiles)

• Width of path

• Longitudinal gradient

• Cross gradient

• Surface roughness

• Presence of steps.

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Advisory Signage�

It is not just people with mobilityproblems or those who use a wheelchairthat will appreciate this information.People pushing prams or with smallchildren, elderly people and many otherusers will also benefit. Points toconsider:

• Provide information on the physicalfeatures of an area or path

• Include information on passing places,resting areas and turning points forwheelchair users

• Print sizes on signs or orientationpanels need to be big enough forpeople to able to read the text easily.The following minimum print sizes arerecommended: titles 60 – 72 point,subtitles 40 – 48 point, body text 24point, captions 18 point

• Use a normal mixture of upper andlower case print. If possible, includesome information in tactile format toallow those who are blind or partiallysighted to read it

• People who are blind or partiallysighted will need to get close to a signor panel to read it - ensure they areplaced in an accessible location

• The bigger the size of print the furtheraway people can read it

• Symbols or pictures may describe aphysical feature better than text andare more accessible to people withlearning difficulties and those who donot read English

• Provide a key - either in a leaflet, onan orientation panel or main accesspoint sign so that people can interpretthe symbols

• Every change in terrain or gradientdoes not need to be signed. Considerwhat the important barriers are andsign these. Consider a section of pathwith several barriers and simplyprovide a short piece of textdescribing them at the access pointsand/or on leaflets. Each barrier doesnot need a separate sign. Forexample ‘This path has gradientsbetween 1:12 and 1:10 for most of itslength, the surface is generally smoothwith cross gradients between 1:40 and 1:50’

• Orientation panels with braille andtactile lettering, symbols, and imagescan be used to highlight key features,such as barriers or areas allowingeasy access

• Orientation panels should be installedat a height appropriate for use bywheelchair users. Information Sheet6.7 provides height measurements forpanels within the cone of vision(objects must fit inside the cone ofvision or else they become distorted).

Path grading system

A common demand from both accessusers and managers is for a universalpath grading system. There is a widerange of types of terrain acrossScotland, and seasonal variations canchange the condition of a path or routedramatically. This makes a universalgrading system fraught with difficultiesand may be of little practical use toaccess managers or users. Therefore,there are currently no plans to introducea universal path grading systemthroughout Scotland.

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Advisory signage has an important roleto play in enabling land managementoperations to be carried out safely and effectively without compromisingaccess rights. The SNH publication‘Signs Guidance for Farmers and otherLand Managers: using advisory signs to inform the public about your day-to-day land managementoperations’ gives the most up to dateinformation. This guidance is availablefree and can be downloaded from:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

For the purposes of this guide, we willdiscuss the basic principles relating toadvisory signage for land managementoperations. Refer also to the principles ofsign planning, design and maintenancedescribed in Chapters 2 and 4.

Agricultural operations

Points to consider:

• Often a simple sign will fulfil bothhealth and safety legislationobligations and allow responsibleaccess to be taken

• People passing through farmland will expect to see and encounteragricultural vehicles and machinery,therefore, not every operation requiressignage

• Advisory signage may be required forspecific higher risk situations such asa field with a bull or cows with calves,crop spraying, slurry spreading, largescale movement of heavy machinery(e.g. during harvest time), or any otheroperations where the hazard may notbe obvious or expected

• Avoid excluding access from a largearea when an operation is taking placein only part of it. People are morelikely to enter an area if they can seeno obvious reason not to do so

• Remember to take down temporarysigns as soon as the operation iscomplete or the hazard is no longerpresent

• Precautions taken must be reasonableand practical. If a hazardous operationdoes require an area of land to beclosed temporarily, minimise the timethis occurs, provide a diversion andgive plenty of notice so regular userscan alter their plans accordingly

3.5 Supporting land management operations

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• Advisory signs alerting users to thepresence of bulls and other cattle,including cows with calves, shouldbe informative and based on theguidance from the Code. Forfurther information regarding healthand safety in relation to cattle andaccess in Scotland, refer to theHealth and Safety Executive’sAgriculture Information SheetNo.17S: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns

• Speak to Access Officers andRangers who will advise on thelegal process associated withtemporary closures and assist withpublicising any such closures,including any necessary signage.These officers can also help withwriting standard wording foradvisory signs based on themessages of the Code, or provideexamples of what is appropriate for a local situation

• Refer to relevant health and safetylegislation and approved codes of practice

• The Health and Safety Executive’swebsite provides useful guidancerelating to agricultural operations:www.hse.gov.uk/agriculture

Advisory Signage�

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Forestry operations

Forestry operations and the machineryused pose specific hazards. The bestway of managing these hazards is toinform the public of working times andareas. In many cases, however,operations will be carried out in only asmall part of a large forest, often farfrom the public eye.

ExampleConsider tree thinning operationswithin large woodland with regularpublic access. The work site itselfwill be fairly small but thinningoperations move around on a day-to-day basis as the harvesterworks its way around the forest.There may also be timber lorriesusing the site to extract felled timber.

• General information signsAt all access points, place signsinforming users of forestryoperations in the area with a noteto watch out for specific guidancenear to working areas and fortimber lorries on haul roads. Statedays and times that operations areto be carried out. Include acontact number if possible

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Example continued

• Working area signsPlace signs on approaches andat the edge of the working area.These should be moved as theworks progress (usually at thestart of each working day). Inmost cases relevant guidelinesstate an exclusion zone must becreated around the felling site. If this includes a popular paththen provide a diversion aroundthe working area

• Storage areas and haul roadsStandard signage to keeppeople off timber stacks shouldbe placed around storage areas.Haul roads need not be closedoff as lorries will give plenty ofwarning of their approach.However, haul roads should besigned so the public can be onthe look out for lorries and a10mph speed limit should beenforced.

This approach can also be applied tomany agricultural operations as thebasic scenario will often be the samei.e. there will be an operation going on ina discreet part of a large area. Signageneed not be elaborate. Standard signsprinted on plastic boards are availablewhich will cover most of the aboverequirements. Extra information can beprovided on a laminated paper sign. If a contractor is being used then theyshould provide signage as part of theircontract. For specific guidance onmanaging public safety on felling sites,the publication ‘Managing Public Safetyon Harvesting Sites’ (ISBN 0 7176 26711) is available from HSE Books:www.hsebooks.co.uk

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�Advisory Signage

The integration of deer stalking andresponsible access has been considered by the ‘Stalking Signage and Communications’ sub-group of the National Access Forum; the sub-group have produced signageguidance which is available at:www.outdooraccess-scotland.com

A starting point for the management ofstalking on land to which access rightsapply is to provide accurate and up todate information as to where and whenstalking is taking place. This can beachieved in several ways including signs,Hillphones and the provision of contactnumbers for estates, for examplethrough websites or local informationoutlets. Circumstances vary betweenestates and different approaches, orcombinations of approaches, may beappropriate in different areas.

Some key considerations apply to allforms of communication about stalkingactivity:

• Any requests should relate to specificdays and apply to the minimumnecessary area - this is more likely toencourage a positive response than alonger-term and more generalmessage

• Requests should include suggestedalternative routes of a similar naturewhich will not interfere with stalking;these should normally start from thesame location or, failing that, nearby.

The guidance produced by the NationalAccess Forum provides more informationabout how this can be achieved usingsigns, including sign templates for use incommon situations. Further informationabout the ‘Hillphones’ scheme can beobtained at: www.hillphones.info

Deer management signage

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51 Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage

Path construction site signage

If construction work is being carried outon a path or area subject to accessrights then signage is a good way ofproviding clear and specific informationto users. Always think about using othermeans of communication to support thesigns. Avoid, where possible, a situationwhere users arrive at a main accesspoint only to discover their planned routeis closed due to construction works.

Points to consider:

• If closures are necessary, then provideinformation on websites, at visitorcentres, in car parks etc, in good time

• To prevent conflict and confusion, havea sign at the start of a path or mainaccess points giving some briefinformation on what and why works arebeing carried out

• Make closures as short as possibleand try to have the area open whenworks are not taking place, e.g. atweekends and evenings

• If required and where possible,provide a diversion

• At work areas, provide further signageto inform people they are approachingthe construction site

• Access rights do not apply to a sitewhere building or civil engineeringworks are taking place (s. 6g of theAct) so it is possible to use ‘No Entry’signs. However, give seriousconsideration as to how effectivethese will be. Restrict such measuresto specific hazardous areas or foroperations such as a bridgeinstallations. The Paths for AllFactsheets ‘Dealing with Hazards andRisk Assessment’ and ‘A Guide to the Construction (Design andManagement) Regulations 2007’provide further detail:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

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Identifying and managing hazards

There are two key principles of hazardmanagement:

• Can the hazard be removed or avoidedcompletely?

• If not can it be reduced to a reasonablelevel?

Before a hazard can be managed it mustbe identified and assessed. It is goodpractice to have a formal inspectionregime for core paths and otherpromoted routes. For other paths andgeneral areas subject to access rights,formal inspections may be unnecessary.Instead have a system whereby usersand land managers can report hazards.Regular access users and land managersare a good source of information onpossible hazards.

Once identified, how a hazard ismanaged depends on the level of risk.Risk can be defined as the likelihood andconsequences of someone beingharmed. The Paths for All Factsheet‘Dealing with Hazards and RiskAssessment' explains the process ofidentifying and managing hazards andcarrying out a risk assessment:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resourcesThe publication ‘Managing Visitor Safetyin the Countryside’ provides usefulinformation on how to identify hazards in the outdoors and how they can bemanaged without compromising eithervisitor safety or the nature of the area inwhich they are located. See the VisitorSafety in the Countryside Group website:www.vscg.co.uk.

The Scottish Rural Property and Business Association publication‘Managing Access - Guidance forOwners and Managers of Land’ alsogives useful advice:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

In all cases, the first option is to considerif it is reasonable and practicable toremove the hazard. That is, considerwhether measures to remove or avoid the hazard are feasible, realistic andeffective. Common sense is the best way of assessing this. For example, it isnot reasonable to implement measureswhich are excessively costly, that maycompromise natural or cultural heritageor are impractical.

If a hazard cannot reasonably beremoved or avoided then it must bereduced to an acceptable level. In many cases simply informing people ofthe presence of a hazard and anyprecautions they should take will besufficient. This is where signage can play a part.

Some basic questions to consider:

• Is the hazard natural?

• Is it obvious or expected to all possibleaccess users?

• Is the hazard intrinsic to theenvironment the path passes through?

• Is the hazard seasonal?

• Who is going to use the site?

• Is the hazard structural?

• Does the hazard involve machinery?

3.6 Hazard warning signage

Landowners have a legal requirement to manage hazards and risks in the outdoors.Signage can help to manage hazards appropriately. This section covers theprinciples and the use of signage in hazard management.

Advisory Signage�

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In many cases people will be able toidentify and deal with hazards withoutneeding to be informed by a sign. Focuson hazards which are neither obvious norexpected. Hazards with a low riskshould be considered, but resourcesshould be concentrated on medium tohigh risks as it is these hazards whichare most likely to cause injuries.Consider what reasonable measurescould be put in place to ensure people’ssafety.

A list of possible options:

• Alter the route of path

• Remove the hazard

• Fence off the hazard or hazardousarea

• Inform users of the hazard and how to avoid it (signage).

Information Sheet 6.13 provides aworked example of a hazardidentification and management process.

Location of hazard warning signs

If hazard warning signs are required,where to place them is of crucialimportance. Leaflets, websites and guidebooks may also need to include hazardinformation.

Points to consider

• On-site signage should be placed tocapture people’s attention

• Include permanent hazard advice on orientation panels at main accesspoints

• Make the information specific ratherthan general. Signs like ‘dangerouspath’ or ‘hazardous area’ tell peoplenothing about what to expect and areof little use

• Provide in-advance signageimmediately before the hazardousarea. This advises people that there isa risk and they are more likely to takeprecautions. If the hazard that a signis referring to does not seem tomanifest itself, users are more likely toignore advice and take less care

• Consider placing a sign after thehazardous section so users can relax!

Example – Natural hazard

Unstable ground, steep drops

• At site access – ‘unstable ground,steep drops, 400m ahead’ withhazard symbol

• At hazard – ‘unstable ground,steep drops’ with hazard symbol.

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Bridge viewing platform withhazard sign

�Advisory Signage

Hazard sign

Corrieshalloch Gorge viewing platform Orientation panel with hazard information

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Example – Corrieshalloch Gorge

Corrieshalloch Gorge in the northwest of Scotland is managed by the NationalTrust for Scotland. It is a large and deep gorge with high, sheer cliffs that areobviously hazardous. The access routes to the site were improved with theprovision of easy access paths, a new car park, a viewing platform suspendedover the gorge and the refurbishment of an existing bridge. It is a Site of SpecialScientific Interest so any works, including signage, had to be appropriate to thesurroundings. Given the accessibility of the site and its widespread promotion inboth National Trust for Scotland literature and national tourism promotion, thereis a need to manage and advise the large number of visitors of all ages andabilities both from the UK and abroad of the significant hazards present.

The photos below show some of the management approaches taken to hazardsignage:

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3.7 Advisory signage for water users

Water access has some specificconsiderations which require a uniqueapproach to signage.

Water poses a range of hazards that arevery different from those encountered onland. Barriers on a river such as a fallentree or scaffolding underneath a bridgecan present a potential hazard. It is thenatural hazards that water users arethere to enjoy but news of short termhazards needs to be conveyed via signs,websites and other means. Signs aimedat paddlesport users tend to have agreater safety element than signs aimedat land-based users. On wider rivers apaddlesport user might not see a sign on the bank or might not be able tomake it across the river to read what itsays. It is important, therefore, toattempt to communicate safetymessages to paddlesport users viaprominently located signs.

Points to consider:

• Leaflets, websites and guide booksare a useful media for providing thisinformation

• Use signage at known car parks andaccess/egress points - but beprepared that paddlers may takeaccess/egress at other places

• In certain circumstances considersignage upstream of a hazard onrivers. For example, if there isscaffolding underneath a bridge a signshould be placed at all the accesspoints upstream of the bridge, as wellas placing a sign on the river bank wellin advance of the bridge

• Signage should be facing upstreamwith no doubt as to whom it isaddressed and the nature of thedanger

• Position signs above the high waterlevel mark, well in advance of thehazard and if possible on both sides of the river

• Motorised craft of various kinds, e.g.motor cruisers, jet skis, havenavigation rights on many inland waterbodies. Signage can help to managethe interaction between motorised andnon-motorised users. For example,both sets of users need to know ifthere is a speed restriction formotorised craft or a priority systemclose to the launching area

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�Advisory Signage

• Signs can help with communicationsbetween anglers and paddlesportusers. When such signs are used,they should be positioned so that both groups are able to see them.Where anglers and paddlesport users use different car parks it is vital that the signs are displayed inboth car parks.

The Scottish Canoe Association (SCA)and Scottish Rural Property & BusinessAssociation, in conjunction with severalother bodies and with assistance fromthe Paths for All and SNH, haveproduced a joint Good PracticeGuidance publication. This guidanceoffers a wide range of advice onmanaging recreational use of water, and is available on the Paths for Allwebsite: www.pathsforall.org.uk

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As outlined in Section 1.3 oncommunication essentials, signage isonly one of many approaches that canbe used to communicate information.General information about wildlife forexample, would usually be more suitableon an interpretation board, in a leaflet oron a website. As well as choosing themost appropriate form of communicationfor your message, it is also important toconsider the range of other toolsavailable to manage visitors on natureconservation areas such as site designand planning, site management andeducation programmes. The choice ofmanagement measures will depend on avariety of factors, including site history(effectiveness of previous measures), the activities causing or likely to causedamage or disturbance (whether withinaccess rights or not), and the naturalheritage interest and site status (whetherthe site is designated and/or the speciesprotected). The measures used must beproportionate and appropriate to thenature conservation issue beingaddressed.

The sort of issues involved mightinclude:

• Fragile habitats sensitive to damageand species vulnerable to disturbance

• Activities or behaviour that wouldaffect nature conservation interests

• How people can minimise their impacton habitats or species, for example bykeeping to the path or keeping dogson a lead or under close control.

It should be remembered that accessrights are statutory rights conveyed byParliament and can only be removed,restricted or regulated by anotherrelevant statutory power or mechanism,used for the correct purpose by theappropriate authorised body and havinggone through due process. The mainstatutory powers available to certainorganisations are:

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 -section 29: Gives SNH the power to putup notices to protect the natural heritageof land on which people can exerciseaccess rights. SNH has producedguidance for its staff on the proceduresto be followed when considering usingthis power, which includes anassessment proforma and a signtemplate. It is envisaged that signserected could be used to temporarilyrestrict access to, or certain activitieswithin, an area where significant adverseimpacts on the natural heritage arepredicted to occur from the exercise ofaccess rights. Consistent with the aboveguidance, it is likely that the powerwould only be used in a small number ofcases in circumstances where it providesa more effective solution over otheraccess management options.

Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act2004 - section 41: Allows SNH to usesigns to provide information about landto which a Site of Special ScientificInterest notification, Nature ConservationOrder, Land Management Order, orbyelaw made under section 20(1),relates. This signage could relate to anyactivity that could damage natureconservation interests and not just thosewithin access rights.

3.8 Protecting nature conservation interests

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Byelaws: Local authorities, NationalPark Authorities and others, undervarious pieces of legislation, can make byelaws to conserve the naturalheritage and generally prevent damageto land over which they have control.

Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982- section 112: Permits the introductionof management rules by local authoritiesto regulate the use and conduct ofpeople on land they own, occupy,manage or control.

In addition, other legislation may placeobligations on site managers to takeappropriate action. For example, SNHand other public bodies managingNatura sites (Special Areas ofConservation and Special ProtectionAreas) have a duty to ensure thatsuitable steps are taken to avoiddeterioration or disturbance of qualifyinginterests. Signage might be anappropriate management measure to useif a recreational activity is likely to resultin deterioration of habitats or significantdisturbance of species for which the sitehas been designated.

The due process for using suchmechanisms ensures they can only beemployed judiciously, when there issufficient evidence to justify their useand the approach is judged to be themost effective management option. Thewording of signs put up by appropriateauthorities using their statutory powerscan be instructional as they have a basisin law, and failure to comply can havelegal consequences (though should stillbe courteous in their tone).

However, other signs may not have a legal status and will, therefore, beinformative or advisory in nature,designed to raise awareness and helppeople to exercise their access rightsresponsibly in a way which takes properaccount of the nature conservationinterests.

All signs must be consistent with theCode, and their purpose is to inform and influence people’s decisions, i.e.advice-giving rather than instructional. If people understand the reason for arequest they will be more likely to complywith the advice.

Advisory Signage�

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The principles of ‘minimum time’ and‘minimum area’ apply. Signs relating tobird breeding, for instance, shouldspecify dates and must be removed oncethe breeding season is over. The areainvolved should be clearly identified,either by using a map or by describingthe area in terms of distance or keyfeatures. However, within theseprinciples there can be scope to thinkcreatively about the best way to engagewith the audience, as suggested inChapter 1.3.

Asking people to avoid an area or abstainfrom an activity when there is no validconservation related reason, or keepingup a sign beyond the minimum timerequired, might be regarded as anunreasonable obstruction or deterrenceto someone legitimately exercising theiraccess rights. If in doubt, contact theaccess authority for advice. In certaincircumstances, it might also be advisableto speak to SNH (especially aboutdesignated sites), the local police wildlifeliaison officer or other relevant intereststo ensure that everyone is aware of, andin agreement with, the proposed signs.

Signage on its own may be insufficient toadequately respond to an access andnature conservation issue. This may bedue to a range of factors including thewording of the sign not being clear orpersuasive, or the location of the signagenot reaching the intended audience.Signage may need to be supplementedby other measures - for example, markingan alternative route around a sensitivearea, or erecting a temporaryfence/screen near a bird breeding site inaddition to signs explaining what thepublic are being asked to do and why.

The presence of staff, such as a sitewarden, ranger or others, can often beinvaluable in helping to reinforce themessage on a sign and to monitor itseffectiveness. Engagement with the localcommunity, or interest groups such as alocal climbing club, can also help toengender support for, and compliancewith, signs.

For more information about protectingnature conservation interests:www.snh.org.uk

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Advisory Signage�

Some cultural heritage sites such asancient monuments are obvious. Lessobvious are buried archaeologicalremains and 20th century militaryremains. Some heritage sites will beprotected by statutory law (AncientMonuments & Archaeological Areas Act1979) as Scheduled Monuments andsome are designated as World HeritageSites for their international importance(presently there are five Scottish WorldHeritage Sites, the most recent beingthe Antonine Wall, July 2008). Otherless significant sites may not beprotected. Cultural heritage sites,whether protected or not, are popularplaces of interest, enjoyment and quietreflection, and are important for whatthey tell us of the past.

Access rights, under the Land Reform(Scotland) Act 2003, apply to historic or archaeological sites that are notsupervised. Sites charging an entry fee will be exempt from access rights.The Code (section 3.49 - 3.52) outlinesresponsible behaviour in relation tocultural heritage.

Signage is not only important for makingheritage sites more easily accessibleand visible but also a tool for getting themessage across to users aboutresponsible access and site protection.

Advisory information signage canconvey messages to users on how theymight best avoid causing any damage ordisturbance to a site. If signs arerequired to restrict access for culturalheritage reasons, they should only be inconjunction with the access authorityand/or Historic Scotland.

Points to consider:

• Ensure signs are not installed on topof visible archaeological remains orinto buried deposits

• Take quotes from the Code to helpcreate signs and to modify userbehaviour.

Where excessive wear and tear of thesite has become an issue, then clear on-site advisory signage can help to re-route or suggest an alternative path.This will allow temporary closure of theexisting route for repairs.

For more information about protectingcultural heritage sites: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

3.9 Cultural heritage sites

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4

4.1 Finger posts

4.2 Waymarking

4.3 Orientation panels

4.4 Location of directional signage

4.5 Directional signage for water users

Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • A Guide to Good Practice

Chapter 4

Directional Signage

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Directional SignageChapter 4

The following sections gives guidance on ways of providing this information.Firstly, however, it is important todefine terms:

Fingerpost - a sign with one or moreblades pointing to a destination ordestinations. These are usually placedat the start of a path, as well as atjunctions with other paths.

Waymarking - markers along theroute at points where the direction ofthe path may be unclear or whereconfirmation of the route is required.They are usually very basic, providingsimple information on direction only.

Orientation panel - refers to a largesign at a main access point whichprovides details of all paths androutes in an area. This is usually doneusing a coloured map and includesmore information on the destinationsand distances.

Directional signage is used to provide people with information on where apath goes and how far it is to a given destination. It gives people theconfidence to use paths by making them feel welcome and helps them inareas where routes are less clear. Good directional signage is crucial toensure a path fulfils its purpose and will provide an advertising andpromotional role. Directional signage can also be used to simply directpeople to specific points such as a viewpoint or an access point to a river.

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Distance

This is obviously the most important part of directional signage. Finger postscan be very effective in this respect asthe blade which contains the text is alsothe arrow. It is crucial to place the postin the correct location and pointing in theright direction (see Section 4.4 ‘Locationof directional signage’).

A sign which simply says ‘path’ does not give the user any information ondestination. Wherever possible, state thedestination(s). If paths do not have anobvious destination, or are part of a widernetwork, then consider how people arelikely to use the network and provideinformation that will be of best use.

Often the same destination will be knownby several different names. It is good touse locally recognised names butbeware of contradicting information onthe Ordnance Survey (OS) map or otherpublications, as this may confusepeople. A good rule of thumb is to usethe place name which appears on theOS map. If the destination is a business,a farm or other private dwelling, makesure you obtain the necessarypermissions from the owners.

Sometimes a local path will form part ofa longer strategic route. In such asituation consider having a small sign atthe point where the routes meet stating‘For the X way follow the Y way for 5miles’ to avoid having multiple logos onsign posts.

In general, if a destination is provided, adistance should be provided too. This isthe best way of letting people know howlong a path will take them to complete.If a network has one or more circularroutes with no destination it will still beuseful to state the distance at the start of each route.

It is recommended that distances shouldbe given in miles in accordance withroad signs. In most cases the simpleprovision of a number alone is all that isrequired - just as in road signs.

There is debate as to whether or notestimated time should be included on asign. This is not recommended as thereare many factors that can influence timeand paths will be used by a range ofusers with varying abilities.

4.1 Finger posts

A finger post is a simple way of providing users with the 3 Ds.

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Direction

Destination

Distance

Direction

Destination

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Less acceptable incountryside setting(although cast metalsign or wooden post help)

Sign blades can be rotated aroundsteel posts

High maintenance -lettering requiresrepainting every 2-5years

Lacks consistency

Variation in quality of wood

Variation in quality of wood

Cost

Inserts susceptible to removal

Wide recognitionnationally

Lettering sharp andcontrasts well withbackground

Robust and lowmaintenance

Good ‘fit’ incountryside setting

Wide aestheticappeal

Use of sustainablematerials

Retains widelyrecognised green /white format

Low maintenance

Insert plate can beremoved andchanged withouthaving to replacewhole sign

Lettering sharp andcontrasts well withbackground

Metal signs with green / white blade

Timber signs Timber with insert

Layout

Over the years a fairly standard formatfor finger posts has evolved. Here is an example:

‘Path’ should be in 150 point and thedestinations and distances in 100 point.The green background is a recognisableformat common across Scotland withgood contrast and readability.

Standard designs

Information Sheets 6.3 and 6.4 providesimple, standard designs for fingerposts. However, if a unique design isrequired, follow the principles of thisguidance to ensure it is fit for purpose. If a path has a name, then this should be substituted for or added to the word ‘path’.

The table below provides a summary ofthe pros and cons of using the designsdescribed in the Information Sheets.

Directional Signage�Directional SignageP

ros

Co

ns

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PathNewtree 4Strathy 6

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ScotWays directional signs

The green and white style of signsused by the Scottish Rights of Wayand Access Society (ScotWays)appears across Scotland and isinstantly recognisable. It providesvery clear information as the letteringis sharp and contrasts well with thebackground. It is possible to use thisformat for timber or metal signs andthe finished product is simple andeffective. Whilst traditionallyindicating Rights of Way only, they arenow being used across Scotland forsignage for a wide range of paths orroutes by other organisations as wellas ScotWays. If a simple, genericdesign for directional signage isrequired then the green background /white lettering has much torecommend it.

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Direction

Waymarking is a way of ensuring peoplecan follow a route without getting lost -they provide confidence. It augmentsfinger posts and will generally onlyprovide information on direction.Typically waymarking is carried out usingsimple routed painted arrows or plasticdiscs with printed arrow. In some caseswaymarkers can be used to markdifferent routes at junctions although thisis usually best done with a finger post.However, if you are on a low budget,waymarkers may be an acceptablecompromise.

Design

In the majority of cases a timber post (see Information Sheet 6.1) provides asimple and effective way of providingwaymarking. Plastic discs with a digitallyprinted arrow are common andsometimes incorporate a logo (see‘Logos and branding’ within Section 2.4).These are simple and effective but canbe prone to theft (plus they can makeinviting targets for people with air rifles!).However, placing them in a routed,recessed circle makes them less proneto removal. Discs can also be attacheddirectly to the post surface using smallscrews. Have a good supply in stock so that damaged ones can be replacedquickly. Another option is to rout andpaint the arrow into the post althoughthis requires specific post designs for different locations and can be more costly.

4.2 Waymarking

Directional Signage�

Waymarker post with routed recess andplastic discs

Waymarker post with routed arrow

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The table below outlines the pros and cons of using routed, painted arrows andattaching or recessing a plastic disc.

Arrow ispermanently fixed

Arrow needsperiodic repainting

Easily removed or damaged

Restricts optionsunless holes routedon all 4 faces

Routing disc recessesis difficult on site -easier done in aworkshop

Aestheticallypleasing

Simple

Ultimate flexibility of options

Can be rotated,changed or locatedon any side of post

Looks neater thanattached disk

More difficult toremove

Routed paintedarrow

Attached disk Recessed disk

Pro

sC

on

s

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The waymarking required on a pathdepends on the path’s attributes. If it is afenced corridor or has a clearly definedsurface then waymarking probably willnot be needed.

If a path is poorly defined, then morewaymarking may be required, forexample, make each waymarker postvisible from the preceding one. Pathusers can then ‘join the dots’ and followthe route easily. If a path crosses fencedfields or dykes, the gates at fencecrossings can effectively waymark theroute reducing the requirement forwaymarkers. Arrows or discs can befixed to gates and fences. It is also worthconsidering whether a path can be‘waymarked’ using landscape design –for example, planting and strategicallyplaced boulders can be used to define aroute without recourse to sign posts.Also consider sight lines so that cyclistsor joggers can see a directional sign intime to change direction.

Points to consider:

• Avoid single waymarker posts withlots of arrows unless absolutelynecessary - they can confuse people

• Install waymarker posts next tojunctions so people are clear whichpath / route to take

• Waymark both ways - it helps users toretrace their steps or to use paths inboth directions

• Make sure that waymarking arrowspoint in the direction you want peopleto go. Arrows directing people to gostraight ahead should ideally beplaced horizontally on the side of thepost, but it is also acceptable to havean arrow pointing straight up - beaware, however, that this may beconfusing for people with learningdisabilities

• Make sure waymarker posts andarrows can be clearly seen againstbackground vegetation.

Help people to follow a path

Directional Signage�

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68 Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage

Waymarking the European way

Whilst not an accepted practice in Scotland, on many paths in Europewaymarking is done by the simple method of painting coloured marks onrocks, walls, fence posts or other features adjacent to the path. This is a lowcost alternative to installing waymarker posts and will minimise maintenance.Many of the schemes in France use colour coded marks and much use ismade of artificial features, rather than natural ones. However, it may beundesirable to have numerous paint marks and on historic features this will notbe welcome. So, if such a system is being considered think carefully andconsult agencies such as Historic Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage, aswell as local users and land managers.

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In many ways an orientation panel isuseful at the start of a path network oroutdoor recreation site. Its purpose is topromote the site and inform users ofwhat paths are in the area and wherethey go. An orientation panel mustprovide enough information to enable theuser to decide which path they want touse, gain an idea of distance andunderstand what they might expectalong the way. Orientation panels mayalso contain advisory information, seeChapter 3.

An orientation panel is also an advert forthe paths and wider area. It, therefore,needs to be attractive, simple tounderstand, easy to read and accessibleto as many people as possible.

Points to consider:

• Keep it simple - avoid addingdescriptions of historic features,nature interest etc. Instead consider a separate interpretation board for this information

• Ordnance Survey type maps can beoff-putting to some users as theyusually contain a lot of detail whichmay not be necessary for thepurposes of an orientation panel

• Use simple symbols or pictures todenote features like buildings,woodlands, facilities, etc

• Include distance of key routes /circular routes

• Provide information on terrain and other accessibility issues (see Chapter 3)

• Always provide a ‘You Are Here’ point and a ‘North’ point with arrowpointing north

4.3 Orientation panels

Directional Signage�

Orientation panel with wood and metal frame

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Direction

Destination

Distance

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• Ensure panels are orientated correctlyin relation to the site or the view,especially if using a map or apanorama

• Think about people with visualimpairments - use contrasting coloursand consider tactile surfaces for blindand partially sighted, who will need tobe very close to read or touch thepanel

• Consider how people will gain accessto the panel. Surfacing around thepanel should be level and wellmaintained for all users

• Be aware of UV degradation of panels. A UV blocking coating isrecommended. Most manufacturerswill be able to provide a UV blockingcoating with a guarantee

• Locate panels where they can beseen, read and touched by peoplestanding and in wheelchairs

• Place panels within the accessiblecone of vision. Information Sheet 6.7provides distances for positions ofpanels within the cone of vision(objects must fit inside the cone ofvision or else they become distorted)

• Panels positioned close to the groundshould be tilted to sixty degrees (60o)to enable those standing, inwheelchairs or children to read easily

• A roof over an orientation panelenables users to read it in the dry,reduces timber decay and UVdegradation of the panel. Ensure theunderside of the roof is a minimum of2100mm from the ground so that it isnot a hazard for visually impairedusers (Information Sheet 6.6).

Information Sheets 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8 and 6.9 provide various designs for anorientation panel with either a timber or a steel frame, roofed or unroofed.

Orientation panel with timber frameand roof

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4.4 Location of directional signage

Location is one of the most important aspects of directional signing. If there ispossible confusion with a sign or waymarker then it will not be serving its intendedpurpose. When considering a path network, different layouts may require differentapproaches. Examples 1 – 3 below demonstrate some common path networklayouts and a suitable signage approach.

Directional Signage�

Example 1

Simple A B path

Example 2

Path network with multiple destinations

� Finger post

� Waymarker

� Finger post

� Waymarker

� Finger post

� Finger post

� Finger post

� Waymarker

� Waymarker

� Finger post

Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage • Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access 71

A

B

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The wording and other information used on a sign must be checked on the ground toensure it makes sense. Waymarking can only be properly assessed by using the route from all directions; thinking of all likely users and looking for areas of potentialconfusion. It is helpful to involve someone else who does not know the route as it canbe difficult to assess directional signage needs when the route is well known to you.

72 Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage

Example 3

Network of circular walks in woodland with no particular destination

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�Chapter 1

Points to consider:

• At main access points ensure that the sign is visible to all users

• Is there an opportunity to position signs near busstops, train stations or car parks? If yes, consider further signagefrom such facilities toencourage more usersonto the path

• If an orientation panelis to be placed at a trailhead, it needs to be in anoticeable spot, so thateveryone entering the trail headarea can see and reach it. If possible, arrange the trail head area with all paths starting adjacent to the orientation panel

• Remember that some paths may beused and approached from differentdirections and, therefore, should besigned and waymarked accordingly.

Directional Signage

Visibility

Think about the visibility of finger posts and waymarkers from the approach of theuser. The diagram below shows the correct and incorrect positioning of a waymarkerto direct people left at the first junction. The waymarker incorrectly positioned couldbe interpreted as pointing to either the first or second junction

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The course of a river or canal will beeasy to follow, but access and egresspoints may benefit from signage.Similarly it may be good practice to signportage points around canal locks, orinstall signs that direct users away fromunsuitable egress points and towardsrecognised egress points that are saferand easier to use. A good example isnear Netherton Bridge on the RiverBlackwater in Perthshire. The originalegress point signage had fallen down.Without a sign in situ, some canoeists

were leaving the river immediately belowthe bridge and were faced with a steepscramble up a bank to get to a roadsidegate. To resolve this problem, a newsign was installed just below the bridgestating ‘Egress Point 60 metres’, thenafter 60 metres another two signs wereinstalled, simply saying ‘Egress Point’.This egress point provides easier landingand the Scottish Canoe Association andlandowner have worked together toinstall a flight of steps to improveaccess.

4.5 Directional signage for water users

Directional Signage

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5

5.1 Contacts

5.2 Sign manufacturers and suppliers

5.3 Image and graphic acknowledgments

Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • A Guide to Good Practice

Chapter 5

Further Information

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5.1 Contacts

Association of Deer ManagementGroupswww.deer-management.co.uk

British Association for Shooting & Conservation Scotland Centre Trochry, Dunkeld, Tayside, PH8 0DYTel: 01350 723226www.basc.org.uk

British Horse Society ScotlandThe Loaning, Auchengate,Irvine, Ayrshire, KA11 5BHTel: 01294 270891www.bhsscotland.org.uk

British Waterways ScotlandCanal House, Applecross Street, Glasgow, G4 9SPTel: 0141 332 6936www.britishwaterways.co.uk/scotland

Cycling Scotland24 Blythswood Square, Glasgow, G2 4BGTel: 0141 229 5350www.cyclingscotland.org

Cyclists’ Touring Club ScotlandTel: 01556 670395www.ctcscotland.org.uk

Deer Commission for ScotlandGreat Glen House, Leachkin Road,Inverness, IV3 8NWTel: 01463 725000www.dcs.gov.uk

Fieldfare Trust7 Volunteer House, Cupar, KY15 5ASTel: 01334 657708www.fieldfare.org.uk

Forestry Commission ScotlandSilvan House, 231 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 7ATTel: 0131 334 0303www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland

Health and Safety ExecutiveRose Court, 2 Southwark Bridge,London, SE1 9HSInfoline: 0845 345 0555Publications: 01787 881165www.hse.gov.uk

International Mountain Bike Association (UK branch) Blackrig, Lochmaben, Dumfries & Galloway, DG11 1RNTel: 01387 810774www.imba-uk.com

Interpret Scotlandwww.interpretscotland.org.uk

Historic ScotlandLongmore House, Salisbury Place,Edinburgh, EH9 1SHTel: 0131 668 8600www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Mountaineering Council of ScotlandThe Old Granary, West Mill Street,Perth, PH1 5QPTel: 01738 493942www.mountaineering-scotland.org.uk

National Farmers Union ScotlandRural Centre, West Mains, Ingliston,Midlothian, EH28 8LTTel: 0131 472 4000www.nfus.org.uk

Paths for All Inglewood House, Tullibody Road,Alloa, FK10 2HUTel: 01259 218888www.pathsforall.org.uk

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Further InformationChapter 5

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Ramblers Association ScotlandKingfisher House, Auld Mart BusinessPark, Milnathort, Kinross, KY13 9DATel: 01577 861222www.ramblers.org.uk/scotland

Royal National Institute of Blind People12- 14 Hillside Crescent,Edinburgh, EH7 5EATel: 0131 652 3140www.rnib.org.uk

Royal Yachting Association ScotlandCaledonia House, South GyleEdinburgh, EH12 9DQTel: 0131 317 7388www.ryascotland.org.uk

Scottish Anglers National AssociationNational Game Angling Centre,The Pier, Loch Leven, Kinross, KY13 8UFTel: 01577 861116www.sana.org.uk

Scottish Canoe AssociationCaledonia House, South Gyle,Edinburgh, EH12 9DQTel: 0131 317 7314www.canoescotland.com

Scottish Countryside Access Networkwww.scottishcountrynet.org

Scottish Disability Equality Forum12 Enterprise House,Springkerse Business Park,Stirling, FK7 7UFTel: 01786 446456www.sdef.org.uk

Scottish Interpretation Networkwww.scotinterpnet.org.uk

Scottish Natural HeritageGreat Glen House, Leachkin Road,Inverness, IV3 8NWTel: 01463 725000www.snh.gov.uk

Scottish Orienteering AssociationGlenmore Lodge, Aviemore, PH22 1QUTel: 01479 861256www.scottish-orienteering.org

Scottish Rights of Way & AccessSociety (ScotWays)24 Annandale Street, Edinburgh, EH7 4ANTel: 0131 558 1222www.scotways.com

Scottish Rural Property & BusinessAssociationStuart House, Eskmills Business Park,Musselburgh, EH21 7PBTel: 0131 653 5400www.srpba.com

Scottish Water Ski AssociationTown Loch, Townhill, Dunfermline, Fife, KY12 0HTTel: 01383 620123www.waterskiscotland.co.uk

Snowsport ScotlandHillend, Biggar Road, Midlothian, EH10 7EFTel: 0131 445 4151www.snowsportscotland.org

Sustrans ScotlandGlenorchy House20 Union Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3LRTel: 0131 539 8122www.sustrans.org.uk

Visitor Safety and Countryside Groupwww.vscg.co.uk

76 Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage

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Further Information�5.2 Sign manufacturers & suppliers

Contact the local authority or NationalPark Authority Access Officers, who may be able to provide the names andcontact details for sign makers andsuppliers within your local area. Access Officer contact details areavailable from the Paths for All website:www.pathsforall.org.uk/outdooraccess/contacts.asp

Alternatively, Paths for All has adatabase of contractors, consultants andsuppliers including signagemanufacturers and suppliers, as well ascontractors involved with the physicalprovision of paths. This database isavailable free and can be downloaded as a PDF from the website:www.pathsforall.org.uk/resources

Please note that the supplier detailsoffered on the database do not representan exhaustive list. Provision of thesedetails should not be taken as any formof endorsement or recommendation byPaths for All.

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5.3 Image and graphic acknowledgments

Page 13 - Scottish Rural Property & Business AssociationPages 14, 17, 26 and 64 - Scottish Rights of Way & Access Society (ScotWays)Pages 29, 35, 51 and 70 - Cairngorms Outdoor Access TrustPage 74 - Scottish Canoe AssociationPage 48 and 53 - Forestry Commission ScotlandPage 84 - Fieldfare Trust (side elevation diagram)Page 85 - Fieldfare Trust (cone of vision diagram and table)

All other photos courtesy/copyright of Paths for All and Scottish Natural Heritage.

78 Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage

Further Information

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6

6.1 Basic timber waymarker post

6.2 Timber directional waymarker post

6.3 Timber finger post

6.4 Standard steel finger post

6.5 Timber map panel frame

6.6 Timber map panel frame with roof

6.7 Angled timber map panel frame

6.8 Steel map panel frame

6.9 Angled steel map panel frame

6.10 Standard hazard warning signs

6.11 Standard generic hazard warning sign

6.12 Comparisons of sign materials

6.13 Hazard management (worked example)

Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access • A Guide to Good Practice

Chapter 6

Information Sheets

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Information Sheet 6.1

Basic timber waymarker post

Arrow convention

Arrow detail

Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage • Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access 79

100 x 100oak post

1000

600

2 No. M16 studding bolted intosuitable holes in post. Seal withbitumen paint

Left Right Straight Fork Forkon left right

35

80

8050

175

150

100 25mm shamfered sloping top

80mm dia. 3mm depth routedcircle for waymaker disc

Optional direction arrow routed3mm deep and painted(orientated as required)

Post hole back filled with wellrammed granular soil. For softground use ST4 concrete

Dimensions in millimetres

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Information Sheet 6.2

Timber directional waymarker post

100 x 100 oak post

200

900

2100

-275

0

2 No. M16 studding bolted intosuitable holes in post. Seal withbitumen paint

175

130

100

25mm shamfered sloping top

80mm dia. 3mm depth routedcircle for waymaker disc.Alternatively router arrow or logo or ‘Path’

Cut suitable slot for blade inpost. Secure with 2 No. 15mmdia. dowels glued into 14mmholes with PVA woodglue

Post hole back filled with wellrammed granular soil. For softground use ST4 concrete

7035

Dimensions in millimetres

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Information Sheet 6.3

Timber finger post

Notes:1. Sign plate 5mm thick

GRP or aluminium to fittight into routed bladerecess and securedwith epoxy resin

2. For high vandalismareas use M16 coachbolts instead of dowels

3. Insertion depthincreased to 1000 forpoles taller than 2500

4. Option to screw bladesto face of pole if blademay interfere with path users.

Routed sign blade option

50010

025mm shamferedsloping top

100 x 100 oak post

2 No. M16 studding boltedinto suitable holes in post.Seal with bitumen paint

Post hole back filled with wellrammed granular soil. For softground use ST4 concrete

900

2100

-275

0

150

70

35

Blade routed to7mm depth with15mm border

Blade fits into routed slotin post. Secure with 2 No.15mm dia. dowels gluedinto 14mm holes withPVA woodglue

150 / 100 point textsquare routed to3mm depth andpainted white

500

100

150

70

Optional second blade

Dimensions in millimetres

175

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Information Sheet 6.4

Standard steel finger post

Notes:1. Set pole 600mm into ground

for post heights up to 2100.Increase to 1000 for tallerpoles and soft ground orhigh vandalism areas

2. 75mm dia. standard steelroad pole shown. Availablepowder coated orgalvanised

3. Poles available in variouslengths from 2000-4000

4. Sign blade clamps availablein various diameters to suitdifferent poles

5. Ensure sufficient clearanceunder sign blades. In areassubject to vandalism mountblades minimum of 2500above ground level

6. Square poles available toprevent signs from beingrotated but care needed to orientate pole.

Clamp on baseplate secured tobase pole toprevent pulling out

ST4 concretewell rammedinto post hole

Single sided blades

Slotted rails totake standardclamps / straps toattach to pole

For 3 or 4 wayjunctions mountextra bladesabove or below

Double sided bladesSign riveted to‘T’ section frame

15mm whiteborder

3mm thick duralsheet with vinylpanel and lettering

600

- 10

0018

00 -

300

0

600

190

Dimensions in millimetres

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Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage • Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access 83

Information Sheet 6.5

Timber map panel frame

General Arrangement Detail

Notes:1. Use sustainable sourced timber. Oak for preference on main legs, alternatively douglas fir or larch.

Treated soft wood may be used for frame, however, hardwood is preferable due to strength anddurability

2. Front frame side sections are screwed to bottom rail with 12g x 85mm galvanised self drivingscrews. Frame is then screwed to main legs using similar screws

3. Clear lexan or toughened acrylic sheet is fitted loose into front frame, followed by printed panel andthen laquered ply fill panel. Rear frame is screwed in place to fix panel firm. Use 6mm screws forrear frame fixing and dip in linseed oil prior to inserting to aid removal for panel replacement

4. Printed panel can be acrylic or encapsulated GRP5. Top rail should protrude over front frame to prevent water from entering between clear acrylic / lexan

sheet and printed panel.

50 x 50 outerframe

50 x 50 backing frame withlaquered 6mm ply fill panel

GRP encapsulatedprinted panel

5mm thick clearlexan or toughenedacrylic sheet

125 x 125upright

50 x 50 frontside pieces frame

840

500

1500

50 x 50 frameside pieces

See Detail

A1 panel shown, varysizes for A2 or A0

850

Secure posts with wellrammed ST4 concrete

600

M16 studding throughpost to prevent pulling out

50 x 25 outer framebottom pieces

125 x 50 sectionlower frame rail

125 x 125 main legs. Can bereduced to 100 x 100 for A2or smaller panel

200 x 50 top sectionprotrudingover panel

Dimensions in millimetres

50 x 25 fronttop pieces

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Information Sheet 6.6

Timber map panel frame with roof

Notes:1. Use sustainable sourced timber. Oak for preference on main legs, alternatively douglas fir or larch.

Treated soft wood may be used for frame, however, hardwood is preferable due to strength and durability2. Frame detail as per unroofed map panel frame (Information Sheet 6.5)3. Roof is designed to provide shelter for people viewing panel4. Use brass screws throughout or stainless where specified. If oak is used coach bolts to be stainless steel.

Front Elevation Side View

1700

75 x 75 section

1200

500

2100

2890

750

850

2100

50 x 50 frameside pieces

A0 panelmounting as perunroofed design

Secure posts with wellrammed ST4 concrete

M16 studding throughpost to prevent pulling out

50 x 25 outer framebottom pieces

125 x 50 sectionlower frame rail

125 x 50section topframe rail

125 x 125 main legs

Stainless steel12g x 150 selfdriving screws

150 x 50 end platecut to shape

M10 x 200coach bolt

150 x 75ridge piececut to matchroof slope

120 x 15 roofingboards fixed with no.10 x 50 brass screws

1400

75 x 75 joist

16g 100mm widthgalvanised steel platenailed to top roofing boards

Dimensions in millimetres

© Fieldfare Trust

The roof should be a minimum of 2100mmfrom the ground so that it is not a hazardfor visually impaired people

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Information Sheet 6.7

Angled timber map panel frame

Section AA, panel fixing detailNotes:1. All timber to be sustainably

sourced2. Frame timbers refer to planed sizes3. Main legs to be oak, if not

available, use douglas fir or larch4. Frame to be untreated hardwood

or douglas fir / larch5. Where specified screws to be

10 gauge brass or stainless steelself driving with manufacturersrecommended penetration depth

6. Sand smooth all exposed timber edges

7. Bolt holes to have 1mm clearance8. Nuts to have penny washers

under heads. Chisel threads toprevent theft

9. If panel is to be quickly replaceableuse stainless steel coach bolts.Otherwise use brass screwsdipped in linseed

10. Lexan sheet sealed to outer framewith clear silicon RTV

11. Vary dimensions for smaller panels.

ViewingDistance

1m

2m

3m

Lowest pointnot below

800mm

700mm

650mm

Highest pointnot above

1850mm

2150mm

2400mm

Position of panels / signs within cone of vision:

800230 230

500

600

900

100 x 75 braces /leg supports

Secure posts with wellrammed ST4 concrete

M16 studding throughpost to prevent pulling out

50 x 25 outer frame withscrewed, glued mitred joints

Radius forwardfacing edges

100 x 100 legs

1260

800

5mm thick clearacrylic lexan sheet

Outer framescrewed or boltedto lower frame

Type 1 base /dust surfaceunder sign

375

5mm thick clear toughenedacrylic or lexan sheet

GRP sign panel

Laquered ply sheet,thickness as required

10g x 75 brass screwsor M8 x 100 coach bolts

25 x 25 panelsurround screwedto frame

150 x 50 framedoweled andglued together

Frame attached tolegs with 2 no. per legM16 x 200 coach bolts

Section BB,leg fixing detail

854

150 x 50 lower framedoweled and gluedtogether

25 x 25 panelsurroundmitred joints

100 x 75 braces/ leg supports

45o30

o

Dimensions in millimetres

© Fieldfare Trust

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Information Sheet 6.8

Steel map panel frame

Notes:1. Front frame welded

together with mitred joints2. Front frame and top piece

is then welded flush withmain legs

3. Weld up rear frame,including sheet infill, andoffer up to front frame

4. Drill and tap holes in mainlegs (3 x M8 per leg). Holes in frame to be slottedto allow adjustment backand forth

5. Galvanise front frame / legsin one unit and rear frameseparately. Tap out excessgalvanising from threads

6. Clear lexan / acrylic sheet placed in loose followed by printed panel, eitherprinted acrylic orencapsulated GRP

7. Bolt in rear frame usingstainless steel anti-tamperscrews so frame is clampedfirmly. Use copper greaseon thread to preventcorrosion.

General Arrangement

Detail

840

500

1500

50 x 25 x 3top section

50 x 50 x 6main legs

See Detail

A1 panel shown, varioussizes for A2 or A0

594

Secure posts with wellrammed ST4 concrete

Steel frame welded to legswith full seam welds,securing threads tappedand then whole structuregalvanised to BS EN ISO1461: 1999

M12 bolts welded to postto prevent pulling out

50 x 50 x 6main legs

25 x 25 x 3angle outerframe weldedto main legs

25 x 25 x 3 angle backingframe with 1.6mm sheetpanel infill

GRP encapsulatedprinted panel

M8 stainless steelanti tamper boltsin thread tappedinto legs

6mm thick clearlexan or toughenedacrylic sheet

Dimensions in millimetres

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Notes:1. Weld up frames and legs, drill all holes then galvanise to BS EN 1SO 1461:19992. All welds full seam and ground smooth where appropriate3. Check fit of frames prior to galvanising4. Bolt holes to be 1mm oversized to enable easy fit5. For different thicknesses of sign panel, pack out with acrylic sheet to ensure tight fit with upper panel6. Seal clear lexan to outer frame with clear silicon RTV7. Vary dimensions to suit different sized panels.

Section AA, frame bolting detail

Produced by Paths for All with support from Scottish Natural Heritage • Signage Guidance for Outdoor Access 87

Information Sheet 6.9

Angled steel map panel frame

Plan view of frame

Elevation Side View

Leg to frame fixing detail

1225565

300

227

Outer frame from 30 x30 x 3 steel angle withwelded mitred joints

40 x 25 x 4angle

Top of 70 x70 x 6 leg

M8 nuts weldedto angle

313863

5mm thick clearacrylic or lexan sheet

Legs from 70 x 70 x 6 SHS

50 x 6 flat

50 x 3 flat + 50x 50 x 6 angle

100 x10 flat

1230

600

500

800

Secure legs with wellrammed ST4 concrete

M12 bolts welded to postto prevent pulling out

Type 1 base /dust surfaceunder sign

90 x 10 Steelflat welded totop of legs

See detail

30030o

870

Welded in70 x 70 x 6cross brace

Section AA

30 x 30 x 3 angleouter frame

M8 nut welded intocorner of inner frame

50 x 50 x 6 anglewelded acrosswidth of frame

40 x 25 x 4 angleinner frame

Clear lexan

GRP panel

50 x 3 flatwelded flush

M8 x 13 stainless steelpin hex button head antitamper screw in 9mmslotted hole

M16 x 30 studwelded onto angle

2 no. 50 x 50 x 6angle weldedacross frame

Inner frame40 x 25 angle

100 x 10 steelflat weldedonto legs

45o

Dimensions in millimetres

385

865

M16 x30 stud

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Hidden drop Trip hazard Gradient warning Width restriction warning

Information Sheet 6.10

Standard hazard warning signs

Actual size for use on a 100mm square post or 110mm wide sign template

General Hazard(add text below)

Drop / deep water Unstable cliff / danger of falling Falling rocks

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Information Sheet 6.11

Standard generic hazard warning sign

Add text into yellow box.

Can be used with other symbols.

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Information Sheet 6.12

Comparisons of sign materials

• Oak, a hardwood, can make good quality and durable signs

• Larch, a softwood, is a durable timber without treatment (and cheaper than oak) but not particularly suitable for painting

• Douglas fir, a softwood, is a suitable timber for use (untreated) in well drained ground. It will provide reasonable durability

• Western Red Cedar, a softwood timber, becoming popular for making timber signsbecause of its characteristics; rich grain and vibrant colour, very durable (stays straight,less likely to twist and crack like other non-treated or treated timbers), long lifespan(contains natural oils acting as preservatives that help the timber to resist insect attackand decay), and safe for use in sensitive environments (non-toxic and requires nochemical treatments)

• Treated soft wood signs are cheaper than hardwood signs to manufacture but theirdurability is not as good. Take care, treatment chemicals can leach out making treatedsoft woods not particularly suitable for use in sensitive environments or near water

• The often wet ground conditions in Scotland can reduce the lifespan of timber postsconsiderably. Consider ‘shoes’ or metal ‘pegs’ that keep the timber out of the rotting zone

• Where oil based stains or paints are used to dress timber signs, if the treatment primerseal is damaged the outdoor elements can lead to timber deterioration.

Strengths

• Easily cut, carved and shaped

• Easily treated and painted

• Ages well

• Blends with natural environments

• Timber is easily carried to remote areas

• Can be used for simple, functionalsigns as well as unique special designs

• Generally acceptable in rural or urbanenvironments

• Timber can be sourced from importedsustainable sources or processed onsite using a local source

Weaknesses

• Easily vandalised

• Detailed graphic carving difficult

• Can be inappropriate adjacent to roads

• Requires regular maintenance (e.g. retreating / repainting)

• Will need replacement every 10 – 15years depending on timber used andtreatment applied

• Treatment chemicals may be unsuitablefor sensitive environments

This information sheet shows the strengths and weaknesses of some materials used forsign manufacture which may help you choose the most suitable ones for your signs.

Timber

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Information Sheet 6.12 (continued)

Strengths

• Black and white photos can bereproduced

• Good for detailed graphics

• Looks good in urban areas

• Provides great scope for interestingdesign

• Fading and discolouration resistant

• Robust and vandal resistant

• Durable and low maintenance (if galvanised finishes or stainless steel is specified)

• Use of recycled steel makes it ‘greener’ than previously

• Powder coated metal will not fade, peel or crack like painted metal

• Aluminium or aluminium alloy does not rust and can be powder coated

• Bent aluminium alloy can be reshapedand will not rot, unlike timber

Weaknesses

• Can be expensive to duplicate

• More expensive than wood

• Can be seen as inappropriate in rural areas

• Needs extra coating or film to depictwording or images

• Can reflect bright sunlight

• Metals such as stainless steel andaluminium are prone to theft for theirscrap value

• Painted metal surfaces may fade, peel or crack

• Green and blue powder coated metalscan fade in direct sunlight

• Bright aluminium is reflective makingsmall signs difficult to see

Metal

Strengths

• Easily maintained

• Good for detailed line art and black and white images

• Suitable for a range of environmentsincluding wild land

• Can make use of available stone onsite, if suitable (low cost option)

• Vandal and weather resistant

Weaknesses

• If stone is not available on site it can be expensive to buy and import to site

• Skill is needed to construct

• Natural contours may make readingwords difficult

Stone

• Specify galvanised finish for steelwork and powder coating if colours are required

• Use stainless steel fastners to aid replacement

• Use anti tamper bolts in areas subject to theft or vandalism.

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Stone (continued)

• Can be incorporated into other site features to reduce ‘clutter’

• Provides opportunities for innovative signs that become great features on a route

• Bolt panels to stone using expansion bolts

• If stone carving is required, ensure stone is of a suitable hardness. Specialist stonesuppliers will provide advice on different stone harnesses and the ease of working.

Strengths

• Environmentally friendly option – 100%recycled and 100% recyclable

• Suitable for a wide range ofenvironments

• Long lifespan: least 40 - 50 years unlike timber

• Very durable, solid and hardwearing

• Will not rot, split or splinter

• Impervious to water and frost

• Impervious to fungi, moss and algaegrowth and insect attack

• Virtually maintenance free – low revenue costs

• No treatment or painting – no leachingof chemicals into soil or water

• Fade resistant – most recycled plastictypes are UV stabilised to resistsunlight damage

• Appearance – can remain clean andlooks very similar to painted timber

Weaknesses

• Expensive

• Physical properties and colour ofrecycled plastic materials are variable – heterogeneous

• Can expand and contract more than timber

• Can bend or soften in hot weather

• Heavier than dry timber of the same size

• Relatively few sign makers haveexperience of working with recycledplastics

• Flammability – issue with some recycled plastic types (low densitypolyethylene). Attempts to light it couldbe an issue in some urban areas wherevandalism is common

Recycled plastic

• There are two main types of recycled plastic: low density polyethylene (LDPE) or highdensity polyethylene (HDPE). LDPE is the less expensive and most common materialavailable. However, it is much softer and more flexible than HDPE. HDPE being themore expensive material, supplier sources can be difficult to find (mainly European).There are some small producers in the UK

• Recycled plastic can be mixed or reinforced with other materials. Sawdust is the mostcommon material. A 50:50 plastic and sawdust material will take paint or stains in asimilar way to timber. However, composite materials can be more brittle than 100%

Information Sheet 6.12 (continued)

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• plastic. Steel sections or glass fibres can be introduced to reinforce plastic in order toimprove its structural strength

• Recycled plastic is purchasable in a number of structural forms: ready moulded,standard profiles and lengths, and custom made moulds. For large signage projectsrequiring a specific profile or shape, a custom made mould could be an economicallyviable option.

Information Sheet 6.12 (continued)

• GRP is a composite or fibre reinforced material made of a plastic reinforced by finefibres made of glass to increase strength and stiffness. It is commonly referred to by the names ‘fibreglass’ or ‘glass fibre’ because of its reinforcing fibres. The plastic isthermosetting (chemical reacting), most often of polyester, vinylester or epoxy resin. The glass is mostly in the form of chopped strand matt but woven fabrics are also used

• A sign or panel design is digital or screen printed onto special paper which is thenembedded in the GRP; or alternatively the design is printed in gel coatings, resulting ina finish identical to a fibreglass structure

• Digital printing is a flexible process that enables the reproduction of full colour graphics.The sign or panel design is printed onto paper which is then encapsulated or encased inglass reinforced plastic

• Screen printing involves the application of each ink separately onto paper or directlyonto the sign or panel surface

• Printing is carried out using fade resistant colours capable of producing fine details.

Strengths

• Comparatively light

• Fairly strong and long lasting

• Cheap to make replacements

• Good for detailed graphics

• Can be made into different shapes and sizes

• Wide range of colours available

• Weather resistant

• Vandal resistant – high level of impactresistance and easy removal of graffiti

Weaknesses

• Colours can fade over time

Glass reinforced plastic (GRP)

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Information Sheet 6.13

Hazard management (worked example)

Consider an informal coastal path along the top of a large cliff. This hazard is obvious,natural and typical of this environment.

Here are the options in order of priority to consider in this situation:

Hazard = High cliff next to path route.

Risk = High – if people fall off the cliff serious injuries or death could result.

Conclusion

This may be a reasonableoption if the cliff is eroding, acliff top path is not sustainableor if there is a reasonablealternative available. However,it is not a desirable option soother solutions should beconsidered

Cons

People want to walk alongthe cliff top for views andso may move off the pathtowards the hazard. Itmay not be possible tomove the path

Pros

Avoids hazard

Option 1 – Route path away from cliff

Conclusion

This could be practical forshort lengths where the path isvery close to the cliff edge andthere is no room to move it.However, this may not be areasonable option for thewhole cliff path due to the highcost and visual intrusion

Cons

May be expensive,visually intrusive, highmaintenance

Pros

Isolates the hazardfrom users, doesnot require extraland

Option 2 – Fence off the cliff

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Overall solution

This will depend on the exact circumstances but in many cases a combination of theabove options may be used.

If the path is informal and only used by local people and an occasional visitor, then the ‘do nothing’ approach may be acceptable. However, there should still be an audittrail to show that this conclusion has been arrived at after a process of assessment and judgement.

If the route is being promoted, then a combination of the other options may benecessary, depending on the site. Going through a process of assessment andjudgement with consideration for all options will usually lead to an effective solution.

• Use signage to warn users of the cliff and include warning advice on leaflets,websites and orientation panels

• If cliff edge is eroding or obscured by vegetation, reroute the path away from the cliffedge if land is negotiable

• Consider fencing as a last resort, only for sections of the cliff that are eroding or rightbeside the path, and no land is available to re-route the path away from the cliff edge.

This process is essentially a risk assessment which enables good judgement andeffective approaches to hazard management to be demonstrated.

Conclusion

A simple option that needscareful consideration but is areasonable approach to apromoted path along the clifftop. Careful design andlocations of signs will beessential

Cons

The hazard still exists soan accident may happen,signs may be seen asintrusive and unnecessary

Pros

Draws attention tothe hazard andenables users tomake a judgementas to whether theyuse the area. Somesimple signagecould be effectiveand non intrusive

Option 3 – Provide warning information to users

Conclusion

A reasonable approach if thehazard is obvious and the pathis stable. Suitable for manysituations

Cons

The hazard still existsand no attempt has beenmade to inform people ofits presence

Pros

Cheap and easy

Option 4 – Do nothing

Information Sheet 6.13 (continued)

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Glossary

1960 Act: Occupiers Liability (Scotland) Act 1960

Access authority: The 32 local authorities and 2 National Park Authorities inScotland that have statutory access duties under the Act

BS: British Standard

DDA: Disability Discrimination Act 2005

DED: Disability Equality Duty

FCS: Forestry Commission Scotland

GRP: Glass Reinforced Plastic

OS: Ordnance Survey

RNIB: Royal National Institute for the Blind

SCA: Scottish Canoe Association

ScotWays: Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society

SDEF: Scottish Disability Equality Forum

SNH: Scottish Natural Heritage

SRPBA: Scottish Rural Property & Business Association

the Act: Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003

the Code: Scottish Outdoor Access Code

The Paths for All Partnership is a recognised Scottish Charity No: SC025535 and a Company Limitedby Guarantee No: 168554 incorporated 19 September 1996 at Companies House, Edinburgh.Registered Office: Inglewood House, Tullibody Road, Alloa FK10 2HU.

DESIGN: eden consultancy group.co.uk

Produced from woodpulp originating from responsibly managed plantations, certified ISO14001, this paper is chlorine free,

acid-free, recyclable and biodegradable.

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