We all know how frustrating it can be to go into a large public building and not be able to find where you are going. Imagine the sense of fear or panic someone who is legally blind or visually impaired would feel in that same situation.
This is why ADA compliant signs are vitally important to help those who are blind or visually impaired.
According to the Dreamscape Foundation, across the world, 285 million people live with some type of visual impairment. In the United States, those with a visual disability account for about 2.2% of the total population.
This is also why all facilities that are open to the public are required to have a variety of signs to indicate permanent spaces. It’s mandated by The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
ADA compliant signs are required to ensure the safety of customers and employees. They mark the location of stairwells, elevators, restrooms and fire exits.
Not having approved ADA compliant signs can lead to possible harm or injury to guests. Business owners and public building staff must keep up with current ADA compliance guidelines to ensure their facility is complaint or they could be subject to hefty fines. Having proper custom ADA signs is the right thing to do. It makes your facility accessible and enhances the guest experience
All permanent public spaces and rooms in public buildings must have ADA-compliant signs. Specific rooms or areas which require ADA signs include:
- An area that pertains to safety which includes installing signs next to fire exits, elevators and stairways
- As a way to designate a permanent space in a building where the room is used for the same function for more than 7 days
- Restrooms and changing rooms
- Conference rooms and board rooms
- Room or floor numbers or letters
- Exam rooms
- Utility, mechanical, or electrical rooms
- Kitchens or public cafeterias
- Types of signs can vary from wall mounted signs to hanging signs
- Universally understood graphics (such as a graphic of a stairway or wheelchair) can be used as long as they meet the requirements outlined in the ADA guidelines.
Understanding the ADA requirements can be confusing and time-consuming. We can help you work through the guidelines. At Georgetown Sign Company, we have the knowledge and experience that is required to deliver fully regulated ADA signs that will pass inspection. Call us today.
