But, it’s common for many business owners to feel intimidated by navigating the rules of ADA-compliant signs. At Image Signs of McKinney, we know the ins and outs of ADA compliance and will help you understand all the questions and nuances required to create an ADA-friendly business environment.
Are ADA Signs Required for Businesses to Have?
One question we often receive from our clients is if they even need ADA-compliant bathroom signs – or any other ADA signs. The answer is almost always yes. According to the ADA Access Board, only places of religious worship and private clubs are exempt from ADA requirements. There are some exceptions with historic buildings, but they must undergo a rigorous consultation process to receive any exemptions or accommodations.
Legally speaking, any public business must have informational and directional signs identifying accessible elements and spaces to remain in compliance with ADA regulations.
What Kinds of Signs Need to Comply with ADA Compliance?
The Standards of Accessible Design §216 establish the types of signs required for specific rooms and spaces. At Image Signs of McKinney, we specialize in all types of ADA-compliant signs for our clients, including:
Tactile Signs
Tactile signs are any signs that a customer can read via touch. They feature raised images and braille.
Signs for Permanent Rooms and Spaces
Signs that identify permanent rooms and spaces to include:
- Room Numbers and Floor Numbers
- Bathrooms
- Libraries
- Cafeterias
- Conference Rooms
- Any other permanent rooms and spaces.
What Features Do ADA Bathrooms and Other Spaces Need to Have?
There are multiple features a sign must have to remain in compliance with the ADA requirements. Our experts know how to navigate the complex array of provisions in the ADA field, but some of the most common requirements include the following:
- Tactile braille and pictogram features for interior signs.
- High-contrast backgrounds and colors – standard selections are blue or black fields and white text.
- Clear and easy-to-read fonts like Sans Serif or Arial.
- Proper spacing of the text.
- Proper formatting of text – for example, ADA signs need uppercase letters.
- Proper location and installation of signs. For example, ADA signs should sit at least 48” from the ground and no higher than 60” from the ground.
- And finally, inaccessible spaces that are not ADA-accessible, like bathrooms without a handicapped stall, require a sign which directs the public to the nearest accessible space.
These are just a few of the requirements involved with creating ADA-compliant signs. We understand you may have some concerns over meeting the legal requirements of ADA compliance. Rest assured, our experts will help you design ADA-compliant signs that will serve your client’s needs and foster an inclusive business environment while also suiting the aesthetic of your business.
