A Sign is Born!
Ever wonder what it takes to install a highway sign? If you're like most people, probably not. But, we think you'll find the process more interesting than you imagine. Here's how the process goes for a typical Tourist Oriented Directional (TOD) sign.....
Step 1 - The application process
Yep. It all starts with paperwork. Customer applications for signs are received and reviewed by TIC. Those that meet all qualifications are sent to ODOT for an engineering review. If ODOT approves installing the new signs on the state highway right of way, TIC creates a work order for the new sign using the cool Cartegraph database. The new signs are also ordered for fabrication and delivery to the sign crew who will do the installation work.
Step 2 - The "Dig In"
After the crew contacts utility companies to mark the location of underground cables and lines, the Sign Crew hits the road to install the new sign. The crew digs a hole four to five feet deep for the 20 foot tall sign post - by hand. Holes are hand dug, rather than with an auger, to avoid damaging underground cables and utility lines.
Step 3 - The Set Up
Before the post is slid into the hole, a screw is installed about six feet from ground level. A platform will be attached to this screw to enable a crew member to climb up the pole to install and wash signs.
Step 4 - The Break Away
Safety is built into all sign installations. After the heavy sign post is hoisted into the hole, and is well packed and tamped into place, two large "break-away" holes are drilled through the solid cedar post. The holes will allow the post to break off should it be struck by a motorist, and reduce the potential for damage and injury to the car and passengers. Unfortunately for the sign post, a collision with a motorist means replacement.
Step 5 - Signs Up
Safety is also top of mind for the crew while performing their work. Working in two-person teams, signs are lifted up the post and screwed into place. Remember that support screw installed in Step 3? Here's the platform it holds to support a crew member while installing and cleaning signs. Another crew member serves as "spotter". Brackets are attached to the backs of the signs to provide support in high winds.
Step 6 - Location Recorded
Last, the GPS coordinates of the new sign installation are recorded. When the crew returns to the TIC offices, the coordinates and other important sign data are loaded into the Cartegraph database.
