Do you need elevator signs for your new highrise building? Here’s what you need to know!
Elevators are a fundamental need of any highrise building. They are the primary source of convenient access to different parts of the building for both tenants and visitors. Today, a building isn’t considered complete without the availability of elevators.
All elevators come with elevator signs. These signs help the visitors operate the elevator and navigate through the building. Elevator signs are required in order to comply with the guidelines set by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). The ADA became law in the year 1990, and its purpose was to increase the inclusivity of public spaces and buildings by making them accessible to people with disabilities.
The ADA compliance for elevators is mandatory for buildings that are three stories or above. However, smaller buildings that do not get this exemption include: 
- Public transit station
- Office of a healthcare provider
- Shopping centers or malls
- Airport terminals
ADA requirements for elevator signs
The ADA requirements for elevator signs are included in the ASME safety code A17. These requirements make it mandatory to have two types of signs for elevators. They are as follows:
Identification signs
The identification signs include the signs displayed on the enclosure or hoistway of elevators and the control signs inside the elevator car. The exterior of these signs is required to be in Braille and raised by 2”. The door jambs on both sides of the entrance need to be positioned above the floor level by 60”. The same requirements need to be followed for the controls and buttons inside the elevator car, that shouldn’t be more than 48” above the floor level.
Directional signs
Directional signs are the second type of elevator signs, they point the visitor towards the elevators on every floor. Public highrise buildings must display directional signs on each floor to guide the visitors to elevators, stairs, and escalators. Just like identification signs, directional signs also need to be highly visible with high-contrast colors and complying with the international standards of symbols for sighted individuals. Moreover, the directions must be Braille and with raised lettering to facilitate people with visual disabilities. The height of these signs needs to be low enough so people in wheelchairs can reach them easily.
Benefits of ADA-Compliant Elevator Signs
It’s always difficult for a person to find their way around a new area and building. The task becomes even more daunting when a visitor is a person with a disability. Proper ADA-compliant directional signs make it easier for visitors to navigate through big buildings. It’s the responsibility of companies to ensure that all their customers, employees, and visitors cant get to their destinations without any inconvenience.
