Just as the Civil Rights Act (and all of its amendments) ensures that you cannot discriminate based on age, race, gender, or sexual orientation, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that disabled people have the same rights and access to services, be they public or private. The ADA is a bit trickier to comply with than the Civil Rights Act, however; in addition to offering services to the disabled, you also must make that disabled people can enter and easily navigate your Orlando building. Amongst other things, the ADA requires certain signage be prominently displayed in your building; these standards are listed in the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG), and if you don't comply, you leave yourself vulnerable to lawsuits and/or fines. To help you avoid these penalties (and of course provide the disabled with equal access to your services) this article will provide you with a checklist of ADA compliant signs for Orlando. Restroom Signs You are probably familiar with the wheelchair symbol on ADA approved bathroom signs, but simply having this image doesn’t comply with ADA guidelines; restroom signs must also be printed in high contrast and include braille. Rescue Assistance Signs If an emergency occurs, those with disabilities may find it difficult to evacuate a building, particularly one with multiple stories. As such, the ADA requires that you have designated areas for rescue assistance on every upper floor. Clearly labeled signs should point out these areas to rescue personnel and those with disabilities. Permanent Rooms and Amenities Interior rooms whose function is likely to remain the same, such as custodial closets or pools, must be clearly labeled. Labels must not only state the room’s purpose, but also incorporate room and floor numbers (or letters). In addition, signs must also have braille and/or tactile pictograms depicting the area’s function and location.   Directory Signs Directory signs must show evacuation and accessibility routes as well as areas of rescue assistance. Most buildings place directories near elevators for easy identification. Although it isn't required, you may want to list offices in your building in braille.   Stairwell Signage The inside of every stairwell door must include tactile information about the exit level, floor level, and stair level. The ADA doesn't specify the size of these signs, but your area’s fire codes require a specific size; be sure to you know these requirements before you install signs. Citrus Sign Studio is familiar with these specifications and can help you pick an appropriate sign. These are the most common ADA signs and are a easy way to begin making your building ADA compliant. In addition to the types of signs, the ADA also has requirements for things such as sign finishes, sizes, and mountings. Complying with ADAAG regulations is difficult, but Citrus Sign Studio is familiar with all these requirements and is more than happy to help your building get up to code. For a free consultation and quote, contact Citrus Sign Studio today!