Are you wondering whether or not the signage for your organization complies with the ADA?
Here’s what you need to keep in mind when purchasing a sign that abides by the law.
While digital advertising has taken the lead in today’s world led by technology and the internet, it’s safe to say that there are still some forms of traditional marketing that have been able to maintain their ground. Such an example is signage. Been around for centuries, signs have long been used to spread the word about an organization and ensure its message reaches the target audience
However, the key to ensuring your signage is effective lies in following the standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What Is ADA?
The ADA is a civil rights law that was enacted back in 1990. It aims to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination in all aspects of life. This includes ensuring that they have equal access to employment opportunities, transportation, public accommodations, and government services.
How to Make a Sign ADA-Compliant?
Visibility
The first and arguably most important requirement for an ADA-compliant sign is that it must be visible from a distance of at least 50 feet. This means that the sign should be placed in an area where it can easily be seen by those who are passing by. There are a few different ways that you can increase the visibility of your sign, such as:
- Placing the sign at eye level: This will ensure that the sign is easy to see for those who are walking by.
- Using light color for the background: A brighter background will make it easier for the sign to stand out against its surroundings.
- Adding reflective materials: Reflective materials will help the sign to be visible even in low-light conditions.
Illumination
Another important requirement for an ADA-compliant sign is that it must be illuminated if it is located in an area that is not well-lit. To ensure visibility around the clock, the sign should have some form of lighting so that it can be seen even when there is not much natural light. You can do so by:
- Using LED lights: LED lights are very bright and will help to ensure that your sign is visible even in low-light conditions.
- Adding solar lights: Solar lights are a great option if you want to save on energy costs.
- Using fluorescent lighting: Fluorescent lighting is another option that can be used to illuminate your sign.
Size of Text
The third requirement for an ADA-compliant sign is that the text must be large enough to be read from a distance of at least 20 feet. The letters on the sign should be at least 2 inches tall if they are going to be readable from a distance. This can be done by:
- Using a larger font: A larger font will make the text on your sign more visible from a distance.
- Adding a border: Adding a border around the text on your sign will help to make it more visible from a distance.
- Making the text bold: Making the text on your sign bold will also help to make it more visible from a distance.
Allow Amazing Signs to help you create unique signage that is ADA-Compliant!
If you reside in Zephyrhills, Florida, and are currently on the hunt for a reliable company that can help you design and manufacture ADA-compliant signage, feel free to reach us at Amazing Signs. Our team of professionals has years of experience in creating signs that are not only attractive and innovative but also comply with the law.
