ADA signs have become more and more common in the architectural, construction and sign industries as organizations and enterprises adhere to the requirements for signage for those individuals with disabilities.
The ADA covers employers with 15 or more employees, including state and local governments. It also applies to employment agencies, labor organizations, and to federal sector employees.
While many types of organizations and businesses do not have to adhere to the Act, greater consideration for individuals with disabilities has many companies, regardless of size or makeup, including ADA signage as part of their customer care and building navigation practices.
ADA signage is part of the Americans with Disabilities Act that regulates accessibility, and includes requirements for signage. Under the ADA, signage in public spaces must be conveniently located and easy to read for individuals with visual, hearing, or other sensory disabilities. ADA signs are not just braille and raised characters. While raised characters are part of the conditions, the law requiring access to the built environment includes almost every sign that would be considered an “architectural” sign.
You should absolutely refer to the Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design for specific sign requirements for your facility.
Company logos and names are examples of signs, or sections of signs, that do not have to comply with the ADA.
Signs are most effective when they communicate your organization’s message to all customers and visitors, regardless of disability status. As a result, ADA-compliant signage should be an important consideration when planning signs for your facility.
ADA signage belongs in public spaces to help ensure that persons with disabilities can locate and read them easily, either visually or through braille or tactile touch (raised letters).
When you display ADA compliant signs in your business, people with disabilities experience greater mobility and can navigate independently. ADA signs improve public safety since signs for entrances, exists, elevators and bathrooms are clearly marked for everyone. Visitors and customers who are able to easily locate places feel more welcomed by the business.
Any business or other public building that displays ADA signs demonstrate an attitude of consideration and inclusion of people of all ability levels. Those accompanying or caring for a disabled individual, and those with loved ones with disabilities notice the consideration of an establishment who cares about helping everyone find their way. Creating a safe and comfortable experience at your organization for all individuals, of all abilities, communicates an important core value of humanity and respect.
When you plan to install new ADA signage or update existing ADA signs, we hope you will come to us. Our design team will create custom ADA signs for your organization or business, and come install them correctly. Contact the sign experts at Sebago Signworks today.