SIGNAGE MAINTENANCE BEST PRACTICES: TIPS FOR ENSURING OPTIMAL VISIBILITY AND LONGEVITY

Effective signage is crucial for maintaining road safety and ensuring smooth traffic management. However, even the best signs need regular upkeep to remain visible and effective. At USS, we know that proper maintenance extends the life of your traffic signage and keeps your messaging clear. Here are some best practices for maintaining and preserving your traffic signs to ensure they stay in top condition.

Regular Inspections

Routine inspections are the foundation of effective signage maintenance. Make sure to:

• Check for Damage: Look for physical damage such as cracks, dents, or rust.
• Assess Visibility: Ensure that signs are not obstructed by vegetation, dirt, or other objects.
• Verify Legibility: Check that the text and symbols are clear and readable from a distance.

Tip: Schedule inspections monthly or quarterly, depending on environmental conditions and traffic volume.

Clean Your Signage

Keeping your signs clean is essential for visibility. Here’s how to do it:

• Use the Right Cleaning Supplies: Avoid abrasive materials. Use a soft cloth or sponge with a mild detergent solution and water.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach or strong solvents, as they can damage the sign’s surface.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean signs as needed, particularly if you notice reduced visibility due to dirt or grime.

Tip: Consider a professional cleaning service for large or hard-to-reach signs.

Check for Fading

Signage visibility can diminish over time due to sun exposure and weather conditions. To manage fading:

• Inspect for Fading: Look for discolouration or decreased reflectivity.
• Replace Signs as Needed: When signs become too faded to read or lose their reflective properties, it’s time for replacements.

Tip: Use high-quality, UV-resistant materials to extend the lifespan of your signage.

Address Rust and Corrosion

Rust and corrosion can compromise the structural integrity of your signs. Here’s what to do:

• Inspect for Rust: Check metal parts of signs and poles for signs of rust or corrosion.
• Treat Rust: Remove rust with a wire brush or sandpaper and apply a rust-inhibiting primer and paint.

Tip: For long-term prevention, use rust-resistant materials or coatings on new signs.

Ensure Proper Mounting

Correct installation is key to sign longevity. Ensure that:

• Signs Are Securely Mounted: Check that signs are firmly attached to their posts and that the mounting hardware is not loose.
• Correct Height and Angle: Verify that the signs are positioned at the correct height and angle for optimal visibility and compliance with regulations.

Tip: Regularly check the tightness of the mounting hardware and adjust as needed.

Check for Compliance

Make sure your signage meets current regulations and standards. To stay compliant:

• Review Regulations: Check for updates to local traffic laws and standards.
• Update Signs: Replace or update signs to reflect any changes in regulations or best practices.

Tip: Stay informed about changes in traffic management regulations to ensure your signs remain compliant.

Document Maintenance Activities

Keeping records of maintenance activities helps track the condition of your signage and schedule future maintenance:

• Create a Maintenance Log: Record inspection dates, actions taken, and observations.
• Review Records: Use the log to identify patterns and plan for future maintenance needs.

Tip: Use a digital tool or app for easy tracking and documentation of maintenance activities.