Public spaces are called public for a certain reason — this means they are supposed to be accessible to the whole public, not only to the privileged group of the community. That is why if you run a public facility, like a restaurant, museum, hospital, etc., or provide your services in public spaces, you need to make sure that all the accessibility requirements are met. ADA signs with Braille will help you to fill at least one point in this checklist.
ADA door signs are special plaques that are designed to create an easy-to-navigate space in a public facility. Their function is quite important and prosaic at the same time, but still, even today not everyone follows these requirements. Let us find out why they are so important.
When ADA Signs Appeared
It seems that society always has had the need to improve the conditions for disabled individuals. It is a necessary step to push our way of living to better equality. That is why it sounds so surprising when you find out that the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed only in 1990. The more surprising fact is that this US bill is the first-ever comprehensive civil rights law that aims to take care of people with impairments. Wayfinding in public spaces is one of the concerns of this paper.
Actually, the ADA requirements for door signs are not so complicated to follow, and they can be easily integrated with your wayfinding system. However, in your country, there might be another civil rights bill that regulates this issue, so you need to get acquainted with it first.
Where ADA Signs Should be Used
According to the ADA requirements, special signs that simplify navigation for disabled individuals should be used at all permanent areas, like entries, exits, elevators, restrooms, bathrooms, evacuation routes, and others. This is done for the purpose of ensuring seamless wayfinding to areas where access to basic amenities is provided.
You are not obliged to mark other areas with ADA signs, especially if these are permanent locations. Nonetheless, ensuring that everyone has equal possibilities in terms of access is a good way to promote the inclusivity of your facility. In other words, it is not mandatory to mark a meeting room with ADA signage but this will be a kind gesture.
Types of ADA Signs
- ADA signs with Braille: Different types of door signage, from directional signs to room nameplates, can apply Braille fonts. These are special tactile characters designed for reading by people with severe vision impairments. Regular characters should also be made tactile to enable visitors to perceive them by touch.
- Handicap room signs: All handicap room signs are ADA signs, but not all ADA signs are handicap room signs. A handicap room is a special area designed specifically for disabled individuals’ needs. Usually, they are distinguished by a wheelchair symbol, which is quite versatile and recognisable all over the globe.
Why Should You Buy Your ADA Door Signs from Bsign?
When it comes to purchasing ADA signs with Braille, Bsign offers its clients unparalleled opportunities and prospects. Only top-quality materials, like stainless steel and acrylic glass, are used.
Bsign crafts customised ADA signage, meaning you can choose not only what will be written on your sign but also the way it will be written there. You can also explore various design ideas that will perfectly complement the interior representation of your facility. This will add an extra touch of uniqueness and authenticity to your brand, creating a recognisable image among customers and other visitors.