Looking for Custom ADA Braille signs?
The Sign Studio in Burbank, CA customizes them for you!
Braille is used by those with visual impairments to read and write, specifically those who are blind. It can be transcribed into different languages because it is a code written with a series of raised dots.
Braille is used to make the life of those with visual impairments easier. These signs protect their rights and make public places more accessible to them. Braille signs are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and helps blind individuals or those with reduced vision navigate spaces with ease.
Braille signage is especially necessary to identify permanent places like entrance, exit, restrooms, elevators, etc.
Here is why braille signage is vital to businesses:
– In case of an emergency, individuals can safely evacuate the building independently.
– It reduces the frustration and removes barriers to communication.
– It shows care and consideration of the business towards all employees.
– It makes a business compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
– If ignored, it could lead to hefty fines, lawsuits, and negative PR.
Types of Braille:
There are three types of braille, and grade 2 braille is the most commonly found in ADA signs manufactured in the U.S.
Grade 1 Braille
This is used by individuals learning to read braille. It covers the 26 letters of the alphabet, numbers, and punctuation.
Grade 2 Braille
This is also called contracted braille and is most common. It covers the alphabet, numbers, contractions, and punctuation. This is preferred as contractions save time and space.
Grade 3 Braille
This is an unstandardized braille shorthand and is used for personal convenience. It is not used in ADA signage or publications as not everyone who reads braille understands this.
ADA Guidelines for Braille Signage
According to the ADA, any signs that identify permanent rooms like stairs, restrooms, elevators, exits, etc, also need to have braille text added to the sign. Temporary signs, informational signs, or directories do not require braille on them.
Braille is so much more than just a series of dots added to a paper or a sign. It makes life accessible to those who are unable to read and write standard text and makes it easier for them to communicate with others and navigate independently.
Following ADA guidelines is crucial for public businesses as failure to comply could result in lawsuits, fines, and generally less traffic and unhappy customers.
Looking out for people with disabilities and making things easier for them is our moral duty. Life for them is hard as is the case for all those who live without disabilities; we should try our best to accommodate them. Installing braille signage is an excellent step towards that goal.
Install Braille Signage
If you are interested in braille or tactile signage in Burbank, CA, to make your business accessible to everyone, visit The Sign Studio which is ADA-compliant. They use tactile and embossed dots that are raised from the surface and easily comprehensible to the visually impaired.
