sign approaches, which appear promising for bolstering the safety and durability of these structures. To provide guidance in the near term—and also to address the numerous existing signs of this type—the International Sign Association created the Sign Structure Installation/Inspection Guidelines (also available via the ISA Web site at www.signs.org). These safety guidelines are applicable not only to single-pole, telescoping structures but to all types of freestanding signs. A key finding of the ISA research establishes that a tapered pole design commonly used for high-mast, roadway light poles and telecommunications towers (Figure 6) is substantially more durable than the common telescoping pole. At present, however, sign companies face significant availability and delivery challenges in utilizing this type of pole that’s commonly sold in large quantities to public transportation agencies and utility firms. Since this research was published though, some ISA member companies have already implemented new projects utilizing the tapered-pole design. Additionally ISA’s research points to certain modifications of the telescoping pole design, which the UCSD tests indicate can improve durability. In addressing this issue, ISA has implemented a comprehensive approach to safety. The first facet of these efforts has been communicating the root cause of this issue and emphasizing the need for regular structural safety inspections in accordance with ISA’s guidelines. A second facet is identifying alternative design approaches that professional engineers may consider for enhancing durability of new and existing sign structures. In addition, ISA continues to gather and review reports of sign structure failures while communicating these research findings and the solutions currently being implemented by sign companies and others. Bill Dundas is the ISA Director of Technical & Regulatory Affairs. For more information about this subject matter, please email him at bill.dundas@signs.org. signshop.com
Figure 6. As shown here, tapered poles incorporating polygonal cross-sections connect via “slip-joint” connections that do not require any welding. ISA research indicates that this type of pole offers superior fatigue resistance.
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December 2013 // Sign Builder Illustrated
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