‘Part M’ is the name commonly attributed to the ‘Technical Guidance Document M’ which in turn is a part of the Building Regulations of 2010.

Applicability:

Part M must be met in instances of all works relating to new construction and works relating to extensions to existing buildings.

Part M covers accessibility requirements. Within this there are guidelines for Signage which are in line with international accessibility standards. These standards should supersede any other guidelines in the specifying of signage. For example Branding Guidelines outlining brands colours etc. should be adapted for signage to ensure compliancy with Part M.

Part M State that signage should be as clear, short and concise as practicable;

1. (b)  text on signs should not be set entirely in capital letters. Rationale: When a combination of capital and lower case letters is used, word shape is easier to recognize, making text easier for many people to read;
2. (c)  visual signs should be designed with due consideration given to the height of sign, layout of sign, font size, font type, use of symbols and visual contrast with background, etc. For guidance on these elements of sign design refer to BS 8300:2009;
3. (d)  all key location information, such as sign directories and orientation signs

should be visual and in tactile form when low enough to be touched. Tactile signs should be designed using embossed text, symbols and/ or Braille. For guidance on these elements of sign design refer to BS 8300:2009;

(e) the International Symbol for Access should be provided, where necessary, on signs to features and facilities that are accessible such as entrances, routes, sanitary and other facilities;

(f) standard symbols in accordance with BS 8501:2002 should be used to indicate the presence of an induction loop or an infrared hearing enhancement system;

(g) the position of the signage should not create a hazard within a circulation route e.g. signs which require a significant period of time to read should be located where users will not obstruct the passage of other people.

Where visual contrast is provided:

(a) the difference in the LRV of the surfaces should be 30 points or more when measured in accordance with BS 8300:2009 Annex B or BS 8493:2008. For large areas such as walls and floors a difference in the LRV of 20 points or more is acceptable, provided the illuminance on the surfaces is 200 lux or more. For door opening furniture, a difference in the LRV of 15 points between the product and its background is acceptable;

Part M covers accessibility requirements. Within this there are guidelines for Signage which are in line with international accessibility standards. These standards should supersede any other guidelines in the specifying of signage. For example Branding Guidelines outlining brands colours etc. should be adapted for signage to ensure compliancy with Part M.

Download the Part M guides here >