A Guide To ADA-Compliant Signs
ADA-Compliant signs feature raised letters, graphics, braille and other tactile elements to provide vital architectural and wayfinding information to people with disabilities so that they can easily navigate through a building. ADA-Compliant signs are required by law for buildings and facilities built for the public use.
What Makes A Sign
ADA-Compliant?
With a variety of regulations in place, creating or finding the right ADA-complaint signage can feel challenging. Here are a few rules to keep in mind when shopping for ADA signs.
Grade 2 Braille
Braille must be displayed on all ADA-compliant signs below the corresponding text. The braille dots must be rounded or dome shaped and 1.5 mm to 1.6. mm in diameter and between 0.6 and 0.9 mm in height.
Character Contrast
Characters and symbols are more visible for people with impaired vision when they contrast as much as possible with the sign background. For this reason, most ADA-compliant signs feature a dark background with light text and symbols, or a contrast ratio of at least 70%.
Installation
Code-compliant signs identifying a permanent room or space need to be installed adjacent to the door they are marking to ensure that they are easy to location. Additionally, signs will need to be 48inches minimum above the finished floor or ground.
Tactile Letter
Tactile letters must be uppercase and written in sans-serif font(with some exceptions). The spacing between characters should be 1/8thinches minimum and the edges of all raised text should be smooth, not rough or sharp.
No Glare Finish
ADA-compliant signs must have a background and characters that do not create a glare or reflection. There is an exception for parking and traffic signs. Eliminating glare helps those with impaired vision read more easily.