ADA & Braille Signs

• Short for the Americans With Disabilities Act, the ADA was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. The law created, among other things, a set of standards for “public space” signage to accommodate the visually impaired or blind.
• In 2010, the United States Department of Justice released revisions to the original ADA Code, including design standards for ADA Signage. These specifications outline requirements for raised elements, braille, and non-glare finishes.

• A Business that provides “Goods and Services” to the public is considered a “Public Accommodation” and shall comply with the ADA. Specifically, US DOJ guidance lists the following categories for public accommodation, which must comply:
  
  • Retail stores
  • Restaurants
  • Bars
  • Service establishments
  • Theaters
  • Hotels
  • Recreational facilities
  • Private museums and schools
  • Doctor & Dentist offices
  • Shopping malls
• The businesses listed above are required to comply with the ADA regardless of the size of the business, or age of the property.

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• A sign that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments. These signs often include tactile lettering, braille, and pictograms, and have specific requirements for contrast, size, and placement.
• ADA signage is required for identification signs on permanent rooms or spaces, including restrooms, elevators, stairwells, and exits. Accessible doors and doorways must be marked with ADA signage, as well as areas of refuge. 
• Directories, logos, menus, and room occupant names are not required to comply with the raised element and braille requirements for ADA signage. Overhead hanging signs, similar to those seen in airports and hospitals, also do not need to comply.

• ADA signs are custom designed to fit the decor. CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is used to ensure compliance with the text height, spacing, and braille requirements of the ADA.
• A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine is used to create insertion points for the braille beads, and to cut out the raised elements. A laser or CNC Router is then used to cut out the final shape of the sign (typically 6″ x 6″). Signs can be mounted with very high bond (VHB) tape or fastened with standoffs.

• The size and complexity of the order will, in large part, determine the lead time. Expect an average of 1-2 weeks for standard color signs, and 2-3 weeks for painted signs.
• Expedited processing may be available upon request.