Separate Access Points for Emergency and Service Vehicles
Dedicated entry and exit points reduce congestion and allow safe circulation for different vehicle types
- Ambulances require direct, unobstructed access to emergency or urgent care entrances
- Delivery trucks should enter via rear or side service drives, away from public drop-off areas
- Service access must avoid conflicts with pedestrian paths and parking circulation
- Emergency access lanes must meet minimum width and turning radius for fire and EMS standards
Covered Patient Drop-Off Zones
Designated drop-off zones improve convenience and comfort for patients arriving by private vehicle
- Porte-cochère or canopy designs allow weather-protected loading and unloading
- Drop-off areas should be directly adjacent to the main entrance or lobby
- Sufficient lane depth must allow vehicles to queue without blocking through traffic
- Include curb ramps, bollards, and clear pedestrian access to the building
Turnaround and Maneuvering Space
Medical sites must provide turning space for large vehicles, especially ambulances and delivery vans
- Ambulance bays typically require turnaround space or drive-through configurations
- Minimum turning radius of 40–50 feet recommended for emergency vehicles
- No backing into public rights-of-way; designs should support head-first exit
- Loading docks and trash collection areas should be located on a separate circulation loop
Signage, Wayfinding, and Traffic Separation
Clear traffic management reduces confusion and improves patient and emergency response times
- Use directional signage for “Ambulance Only,” “Deliveries,” and “Patient Drop-Off” areas
- Painted pavement markings and entry gates may be used for enforcement
- Internal signage must align with municipal standards and be visible under all lighting conditions
- Separate pedestrian crossings and pathways must ensure ADA accessibility and safety
