Signage Language

Hello Julia, I asked GBCI this same question a while back and here is their response: "There is no firm answer to this as it depends on the overall context of the exterior smoking policy communication method on the site, but the exact language on the signage, its size, and location(s) are up to the project team (with one caveat for signage locations for v4 projects - must be within 10 feet of all entrances). That being said, the signage throughout the site must somehow effectively communicate the exterior smoking policy to all building occupants and visitors and it must be reasonably visible. For example, a single sign with a crossed-out cigarette and no text at one entrance may not be sufficient and could be misinterpreted as the interior smoking policy, but if such a sign is installed at multiple locations around the building exterior to communicate the extent of the non-smoking area or if there is additional signage to indicate the location of the designated smoking area, this would better communicate the exterior smoking policy. Another example of effective signage language is "Smoking is allowed in designated smoking areas only." Also, reviewers will take into consideration other methods of communicating the exterior smoking policy in conjunction with the signage, such as policing of non-smoking areas by security staff or regular communications with occupants about the smoking policy. If the client wants to do the bare minimum, one approach could be to place a sign only at the designated smoking area saying something such as "Smoking permitted in this area only" and supplementing that with regular communications with the occupants about the site smoking policy." Hope this helps!

Unfortunately I am unable to determine where exactly the project's LEED reviewer will draw the line on this one. Our v4 O+M:EB Volume program requires signage within 10 feet of all entrances. If we were to do less (e.g. not locate signage at every entrance) we would provide a policy that provides additional communication/policing strategies. ***Disclaimer*** I cannot guarantee this will be approved. Soapbox time :) It is interesting that we provide a policy and signage but do not physically verify where people are in fact smoking while our commissioning team is onsite during the performance period