Custom ADA Signage

What is ADA Signage?

ADA signage refers to the visual indicators that are used to provide clear, consistent, and accessible information for individuals with disabilities. These signs are designed to help people with visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments navigate environments with ease. They are essential for making sure that spaces such as schools, workplaces, government buildings, restaurants, and other public accommodations are inclusive and meet legal standards. Calico Creative can create custom ADA Signage as well as provide premade ADA signs that are needed.

Why is ADA Signage Important?

ADA signage is more than just a requirement; it’s an opportunity to make your space more inclusive and safer for everyone. Accessible signage can:

• Help individuals with visual impairments, such as those who are blind or have low vision, navigate spaces through tactile signs (braille) or clear contrasting designs.
• Aid individuals with hearing impairments by using universally recognized symbols.
• Provide clear information to those with cognitive disabilities, enabling better comprehension and wayfinding.

Non-compliance with ADA signage regulations not only means risking legal consequences but also potentially excludes individuals from fully engaging with your space.

Key Requirements for ADA Signage

The ADA has set forth specific standards for signage to ensure accessibility. Below are some of the critical ADA signage requirements that businesses and property owners must adhere to. These are also the requirements Calico Creative must adhere to when creating and installing ADA Signage :

1. Braille and Tactile Signage:
   • Signs in areas where permanent information is needed (like restrooms, elevators, or rooms) should include braille and raised characters.
   • These braille characters must be placed directly below the raised text and should be readable by touch. The spacing and size of braille characters are regulated to ensure consistency and ease of reading.
2. Character Height and Font:
   • Raised characters should be between 5/8 inch and 2 inches high, depending on the height of the sign.
   • The type of font used must be simple, easy to read, and non-decorative. Common fonts that meet ADA standards include Helvetica, Arial, and Clearview. The font must be uppercase, and the characters should be clear and consistent.
3. Contrast and Color:
   • Signs must have high contrast between the text and the background. For example, dark text on a light background or light text on a dark background ensures readability for individuals with low vision.
4. Placement and Mounting:
   • Signs should be mounted between 48 inches and 60 inches from the finished floor to ensure that they are visible to people of all heights, including those in wheelchairs.
   • The sign should be placed on the wall next to the door or entrance it refers to, ensuring it is easy to spot and understand.
5. Directional and Informational Signs:
   • ADA-compliant signs should include tactile and visual elements, with clear directional indicators for ease of navigation.
   • The signs must also include universal symbols (such as the wheelchair symbol) for clear understanding across different languages and demographics.
6. Restroom Signage:
   • Restroom signs need to be both gender-neutral and ADA-compliant, featuring braille, tactile characters, and clear iconography.
7. Exit and Emergency Signage:
   • Emergency exit signs must be clearly visible, and should include braille for those with visual impairments. Additionally, emergency signage needs to follow proper color schemes and contrast to ensure they are visible in different lighting conditions.

Links to Current ADA Signage Requirements

For more in-depth information on ADA signage requirements, here are some valuable resources:

• ADA Standards for Accessible Design: https://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm – This is the official government resource for ADA standards, including those for signage.
• United States Access Board: https://www.access-board.gov – This site provides a comprehensive guide on design and accessibility standards, including ADA signage specifications.
• ADA Signage Requirements (ADA Compliance Services): https://www.adacompliance.com/ada-signage-requirements – This article gives a detailed breakdown of the different types of signage needed in various environments.

How to Ensure Compliance

To make sure your business or building complies with ADA signage regulations, consider these steps:

1. Conduct an Accessibility Audit: Regularly audit your property to ensure that all signs are compliant with ADA guidelines. This includes checking that all relevant rooms, exits, and amenities are properly labeled with tactile and visual signage.
2. Consult with an ADA Specialist: If you’re unsure about the specific requirements for your facility, it may be worth consulting with an ADA compliance expert. They can guide you through the regulations and help you design or update your signage.
3. Regular Training: Ensure that your staff is trained to help individuals who may have questions about signage, especially in emergencies. Having staff who can assist individuals with disabilities makes your space even more welcoming.
4. Maintain and Update Signage Regularly: Over time, signage may wear down, or regulations may change. Make sure to keep signage up to date and in good condition to maintain accessibility standards.

ADA signage is a crucial element in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, can navigate and access public spaces safely and effectively. By following ADA signage guidelines, not only do you comply with the law, but you also demonstrate your commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Whether you are opening a new space or upgrading your current signage, taking the time to implement premade or custom ADA signage is an investment in both your business and your community.