Non‑hazard signs for wayfinding and operations. Design for legibility and durability; keep them distinct from regulated safety signage.
General information signs tell people where to go and how to use spaces — directories, amenities, room IDs, opening hours and process instructions. In Australian workplaces they sit alongside regulated safety signs, reducing confusion and keeping operations moving. This guide shows you how to plan, design, manufacture, install and maintain information signage that’s legible, durable and consistent across your site.
What are general information signs?
General information signs convey helpful, non-hazard messages: directions, facilities, opening hours, room names, policies, collection points, QR check-ins, and similar guidance. They are common across offices, warehouses, hospitals, universities, construction site facilities and public venues.
They are different from regulated safety categories such as danger, warning, prohibition, mandatory and emergency information signs. Those categories address specific risks and may be governed by standards and workplace laws. Information signs complement them by filling everyday knowledge gaps—where to go, what to do, and how to use a space.
Because they are read frequently by staff, contractors and visitors, the essentials are legibility, durability and consistency. The same message should look and read the same way across a site, so users can recognise it instantly.
- General information: “Amenities →”, “Visitor Parking”, “Reception hours 8:30–5:00”.
- Not general information: “No entry — authorised personnel only” (prohibition), “Hearing protection required” (mandatory), “Emergency exit” (emergency information).
Ready to order? Configure and purchase custom panels, decals and directories here: General Information Signs (Custom Printed).
Site-wide consistency: Establish a sign family early. Define typefaces, colour palette, icon style, panel thicknesses, corner radii, mounting methods and a numbering convention (e.g. BLD-LEV-ROOM-SIGNCODE). Store the system in a short style guide so future additions match the original rollout.
Fast quote and templates: You can price, configure and upload artwork directly on the product page: General Information Signs (Custom Printed). Request Illustrator or PDF panel templates if you need bleed, safe area and hole position guides.
Typical use cases in Australian workplaces
Most workplaces need a layered set of information signs. Common categories include:
- Wayfinding and navigation: building directories, floor maps, lift and stair directions, room names and numbers.
- Amenities and services: reception, bathrooms, showers, lockers, first aid room location, kitchen, bike storage.
- Operations and logistics: delivery bay, parcel pick-up, returns, pallet drop zones, staff entry, visitor parking.
- Policy and housekeeping: PPE check-in location, hygiene practices, housekeeping reminders, recycling streams.
- IT and equipment guidance: printer instructions, meeting room booking etiquette, device return points.
- Customer and public information: trading hours, service counters, ticketing lines, queue management.
Practical example sets:
- Education: room IDs aligned to timetabling codes, lab access policy panels at 1500 mm centreline, and foyer directories at 900–1100 mm lower edge for accessibility.
- Healthcare: wayfinding colour-coding by ward, door decals with privacy frosting to 900–2100 mm, and equipment return points labelled with QR asset links.
- Industrial: ACP dock identifiers readable from 30–40 m, racking bay IDs on magnetic panels, and traffic flows marked with floor arrows and yield notices.
Design principles that improve legibility
Readable design matters more than decoration. A small improvement in type size or contrast can halve reading time at a distance. Focus on:
- Type size vs viewing distance: larger letters for longer viewing distances; keep titles short and scannable.
- High contrast: dark text on a light background (or vice versa). Avoid low-contrast colour-on-colour combinations.
- Simple fonts: stick to clear sans-serif families; avoid condensed or script styles for core messages.
- Hierarchy: use one or two weights to guide the eye; don’t stack too many levels of headings.
- Icons judiciously: pictograms help scanning, but never replace essential words that explain context.
- Plain language: action-first phrasing beats long sentences. Use consistent wording site-wide.
Viewing heights and placement: Door-level identification typically reads best with the panel centreline at 1400–1600 mm. Overhead or suspended signs should maintain a minimum 2100 mm floor clearance. Keep key legends at 1200–1700 mm where possible for ease of reading.
Materials and durability for Australian conditions
Australia’s UV exposure, heat and coastal environments can be harsh on signage. Selecting the right substrate and print process extends lifespan and keeps colours readable. Common material choices include:
- Aluminium composite panel (ACP): rigid, dimensionally stable and ideal for indoor/outdoor wall signs, doors and fences.
- Acrylic (PMMA, often called Perspex): premium gloss or matte finish for reception and interior wayfinding; can be stand-off mounted.
- Corflute (corrugated polypropylene): lightweight and economical for temporary or changeable messaging.
- Foam PVC: lightweight, smooth interior panels for offices, corridors and retail back-of-house.
- Vinyl decals and wall films: for glass, walls, doors and windows; can be laminated for easy cleaning.
At Sign Portal, we manufacture in-house using direct UV printing, wide-format printing, CNC routing, laser cutting and laminating. UV-cured inks bond to rigid substrates, while laminated vinyl prints deliver flexibility for windows and walls.
Typical specs we supply: ACP in 3 mm (standard) and 4 mm (heavy duty); acrylic in 3–6 mm; foam PVC in 3–5 mm; Corflute in 3–5 mm; high-tack or removable vinyls as required. External panels can be clear-coated or laminated for added UV and graffiti resistance. Stainless fixings and stand-offs are recommended for coastal sites.
Environmental considerations: For coastal or high-UV locations, specify 316 stainless hardware, UV-stable laminates and darker inks with protective clear. For food or healthcare, choose anti-graffiti/anti-microbial laminate where cleaning frequency is high.
| Feature | ACP panel | Corflute |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | Permanent indoor/outdoor wall and fence signs | Short-term or temporary messaging |
| Rigidity | High; resists warping | Moderate; may bow in wind/heat on large sizes |
| Print method | Direct UV print or applied vinyl | Direct UV print or applied vinyl |
| Weather resistance | Excellent; suitable for coastal with correct fixings | Good for short-term; extended UV can embrittle |
| Cost | Higher upfront; longer service life | Lower upfront; best for short campaigns |
| Mounting | Screws, stand-offs, VHB tape on smooth surfaces | Cable ties to fencing, screws, or temporary stands |
Manufacturing at Sign Portal
We produce information signs in-house in a 480 m² facility with clean, specialised print rooms. Rigid substrates like ACP, acrylic, foam PVC and Corflute are direct-printed on our Mimaki JFX EX UV flatbeds. Precision shapes and rounded corners are cut on our MultiCam SM2412 CNC router or laser systems, depending on material.
For glass, doors and walls, we print high-quality vinyl on our Roland VG-640 printer/cutter. We can add gloss, matte or anti-graffiti laminate to improve cleanability in high-touch areas like kitchens and lifts. Kiss-cut labels and decals are supplied on sheets for easy distribution.
Custom fabrication—stand-off mounts, layered acrylic, slat directories and changeable inserts—is available, and we ship Australia-wide including regional and remote locations. As a Veteran-Owned business with Local Buy credentials, we also support government procurement workflows.
- Warehouse: ACP wall signs for dock numbers, vinyl door labels for amenities, and Corflute inserts for seasonal despatch zones.
- Office fit-out: Acrylic reception directory with stand-offs, room ID panels, and frosted privacy strips with cut-through icons.
Quality control and tolerances: Typical size tolerance is ±1 mm on routed panels and ±0.5 mm on laser-cut acrylic. Hole positions ±0.7 mm unless otherwise specified. Colour variation between reorders is minimised via embedded profiles; provide a target print if a tight match is required.
Sizes, fixings and installation methods
Choose sizes based on viewing distance and available mounting surfaces. In corridors, smaller door-level panels work; in open warehouses, larger panels are needed to be legible from aisles or forklift routes.
- Adhesive mounting: VHB tape or foam tape on smooth, clean walls and doors; ideal for acrylic and ACP indoors.
- Mechanical fixings: screws with stand-offs, button caps or rivets; suit ACP on masonry, timber or sheet cladding.
- Temporary fixtures: cable ties for Corflute to fencing; magnetic panels for racking and tool storage.
- Suspended or rail systems: cable-suspended signs or slat directory rails where content changes periodically.
Prepare surfaces by cleaning with mild detergent and isopropyl alcohol, then allow to dry. For adhesives, avoid freshly painted walls until the paint fully cures per manufacturer guidance.
Step-by-step tips:
- Adhesive panels: dry-fit and level; apply perimeter and cross-brace tape; roll with pressure (at least 15 N/cm); keep above 15 °C; support for 24 hours while bond develops.
- Stand-offs: mark holes, drill pilot to substrate spec, insert wall plugs if masonry, finger-tighten then quarter-turn; avoid pinching acrylic.
- Vinyl decals: hinge method with low-tack tape; squeegee from centre out with felt edge; post-heat cast film edges to 85–95 °C.
Quick sizing rule-of-thumb
For legibility at a glance, plan character height at approximately 3–5 mm per metre of viewing distance (higher end for poor lighting or fast-moving viewers).
- Reception door labels (2–3 m): 10–15 mm cap height.
- Corridor room IDs (5–8 m): 20–40 mm cap height.
- Warehouse aisle IDs (12–20 m): 50–100 mm cap height.
Allow 15–25 mm safe margin inside panel edges so fixings and rounded corners don’t clip artwork.
Artwork and ordering checklist
Clear artwork reduces proofs and speeds production. Before submitting:
- Supply vector PDF with fonts outlined; embed or link images at 200–300 dpi at final size.
- Set colours in CMYK; nominate any critical Pantone references for spot matching where feasible.
- Include cut paths on separate layers for contour or kiss-cut jobs; add 3–5 mm bleed where artwork runs to edge.
- Note finish (gloss/matte), laminate (standard/anti-graffiti), mounting method and hardware if required.
- Provide a location plan or schedule if sets must align across floors or buildings.
Preflight checks before you upload artwork
- Message list locked: confirm exact wording, capitalisation, and any QR/URL destinations.
- Sizes and materials: nominate panel size, material thickness (e.g. 3 mm ACP, 4.5 mm acrylic), and corner radius if required.
- Fixing method: specify VHB tape grade (e.g. 3M 5952 for painted metal/glass), stand-off diameter (e.g. 16–19 mm), or screw type (8G–10G with wall plugs).
- Artwork safety: maintain 15–25 mm inner margin; set overprint/knockout correctly for text over tints.
- Cut/crease layers: name spot colours “CutContour” or “KissCut” as applicable; set to 100% spot, hairline.
- Colour proofing: supply a reference print or brand guide; advise tolerance for critical colour elements.
- Accessibility alignment: where tactile/Braille systems are in use, align nomenclature and numbering.
- Shipping and install: advise required-by date, delivery labelling by area/level, and installation responsibility.
- Approvals: nominate approver and revision control (file names or issue numbers) to avoid outdated artwork.
Printable preflight checklist (quick copy-paste)
- [ ] File format is vector PDF/AI/EPS; fonts outlined; images 200–300 dpi at size
- [ ] CMYK colours set; Pantone call-outs listed if critical
- [ ] 3–5 mm bleed; 15–25 mm safe area; cut paths on separate layer
- [ ] Panel size, material and thickness confirmed; corner radius specified
- [ ] Fixing method and hardware specified; install height/location noted
- [ ] Message text, QR codes and URLs tested; contact details current
- [ ] Laminate/finish specified (gloss/matte/anti-graffiti)
- [ ] Delivery breakdown by area/level; required-by date; installer assigned
- [ ] Approver name; version control/file naming set
When ready, upload files and configure your order here: General Information Signs (Custom Printed).
Maintenance and replacement
Regular cleaning keeps information signs readable and professional. Use a soft cloth with mild detergent and water; avoid harsh solvents or abrasive pads that can dull acrylic or damage printed surfaces.
- Inspection: check quarterly (or aligned to facility inspections) for loose fixings, peeling edges, fading or vandalism.
- Adhesives: press-test edges; if detaching, replace tape or consider mechanical fixings for high-humidity areas.
- Lamination: anti-graffiti films allow easier removal of marker and grime—ideal for kitchens and public foyers.
- Replacement triggers: unreadable text, significant UV fade, cracked panels, outdated messaging or rebrands.
Repair options and field fixes
Minor issues can often be repaired on-site, reducing downtime and cost. Keep a small kit in Facilities or with site supervisors.
- Loose adhesive panels (indoors): remove panel carefully; clean both surfaces with 70% IPA; apply new 1.1 mm 3M VHB 5952 tape in a perimeter frame plus centre strips; roll down firmly; mount at 20–25 °C; support with painter’s tape for 24 hours.
- Edge-lifted vinyl decals: warm gently with a heat gun on low; lift, trim contaminated adhesive; clean substrate; apply a new section using hinge method; squeegee from centre out; post-heat edges to 80–90 °C if cast film.
- Scratched acrylic face: light scuffs can be reduced with a plastic polish (e.g. Novus 1/2). Deep gouges usually require face replacement.
- Graffiti removal: for laminated prints, use isopropyl alcohol or approved graffiti remover per laminate datasheet; avoid ketones on acrylic. Always spot-test in a corner first.
- Loose mechanical fixings: replace with stainless hardware; for ACP, use 8G–10G pan-head screws with nylon washers; maintain 12–18 mm edge distance from panel edge; do not overtighten stand-offs—hand tight plus a quarter turn.
- Bent/damaged panels: photograph and measure; we can reproduce like-for-like from your order history, including colours and hole centres.
Spare parts and lifecycle: Keep 2–5% spare panels for high-traffic areas, plus a roll of matching vinyl for decals. Store flat at 15–25 °C, out of direct sun. Typical service life: indoor acrylic/ACP 7–10 years; outdoor ACP 5–7 years (unlaminated) or 7–10 years (laminated), subject to exposure.
Costs and lead time drivers
Project cost is influenced by material, size, quantity, finish and shape complexity. ACP and acrylic cost more than Corflute or foam PVC but usually last longer. Laminates add durability and hygiene but increase unit price.
- Economies of scale: batching multiples of the same size/material reduces set-up time and waste.
- Shapes and hardware: contour cuts, stand-offs and specialty fixtures add fabrication steps.
- Freight: large panels or remote deliveries may require custom packaging or longer transit windows.
Because every site and mix of signs is different, we quote to specification. We manufacture in-house and ship Australia-wide, including regional and remote areas.
Typical lead times: Standard panels/decals 3–5 working days from artwork approval; complex fabrications 7–10 working days. Need it faster? Ask about priority slots before you approve artwork.
Compliance boundaries and when to use regulated signs
Information signs are for helpful guidance, not for communicating specific hazards. If the message relates to danger, mandatory PPE, prohibition, emergency equipment or exits, consult the relevant Australian workplace requirements and applicable standards rather than treating it as general information.
Accessibility signage (for example tactile and Braille room IDs) may be subject to separate accessibility requirements. Align information signage with those systems so wayfinding remains consistent across a site.
- Use regulated signs for “No Smoking” (prohibition), “Eye protection must be worn” (mandatory), and “Emergency Exit” (emergency information).
- Use information signs for “Delivery Bay →”, “Inductions this way”, and “Reception — Level 2”.
When in doubt, separate hazard communication from general information. Use clear legends and consistent visual language so users can distinguish between guidance and mandatory instructions at a glance.
Next step: Get instant pricing and upload artwork for site-wide packs or single panels via General Information Signs (Custom Printed). We can also assist with schedules and installation Australia-wide.
Order flow at a glance
- Configure: choose material, size, finish and fixings on the product page.
- Upload: provide artwork or request templated proofs.
- Approve: we supply digital proofs and a consolidated schedule if required.
- Manufacture: in-house print, route/laser, laminate and pack.
- Dispatch & install: shipped Australia-wide; install guides available for your team or our partners can install.
Start here any time: General Information Signs (Custom Printed).
Related Sign Portal resources: General Information - Safety First Keep Floors Free Signs · General Information - Safety First Report All Unsafe Conditions Signs · General Information - Safety First Personal Protective Equipment Signs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between information signs and safety hazard signs?
Information signs provide general guidance like directions, room names and procedures. Hazard signs communicate specific risks or mandatory actions and may be governed by standards and workplace laws. Treat hazard communication separately from general information.
Which material should I choose for indoor office wayfinding?
Acrylic or ACP both work well. Acrylic offers a premium look with stand-offs, while ACP provides a robust, flat panel at a lower cost. For glass doors and walls, consider printed and cut vinyl decals.
Will my signs fade in Australian sun?
UV exposure can fade prints over time, especially outdoors. Direct UV printing on rigid panels and adding protective laminates on vinyl help extend colour life. Placement, orientation and cleaning routines also matter.
Can you match my brand colours?
Yes. Supply Pantone or CMYK references and we’ll print test swatches where needed. Consistency is improved by standardising materials and finishes across all sites.
How do I mount signs without drilling?
High-bond double-sided tapes work on smooth, clean surfaces for lighter panels. For heavy or textured walls, mechanical fixings are recommended.
Do you ship to regional or remote locations?
Yes. We ship Australia-wide, including regional and remote areas. Packaging and transit methods are selected to protect panels during long-haul freight.
What file format should I supply?
Vector PDF with outlined fonts is preferred. Include high-resolution linked images (200–300 dpi at size), 3–5 mm bleed for edge-to-edge prints, and separate layers for cut paths.
How do I keep acrylic signs clean?
Wipe with a soft cloth and mild detergent solution. Avoid abrasive pads and strong solvents that can haze or crack acrylic.
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