ADA guidelines for installing signs can be…daunting. There are many rules and many exceptions to rules, multiple definitions, and simply a lot of factors to consider. The guidelines for installing ADA signage are strict and specific and we are here to break it down for you. The truth is that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is in place to remove barriers – all types of barriers – for people living and working with disabilities. Because of ADA regulations, people with mobility issues have access to ramps and lifts so they can shop, work, swim, and enjoy life. Our blind neighbors can navigate themselves around buildings and other spaces. And the deaf can ask their employers for the accommodations they need to achieve professional success. When individuals of all abilities can participate in all aspects of society, everyone benefits actively.
At Adaptive Signage, we are passionate about using signs to help people of all abilities feel welcome and comfortable in any space. We provide a full range of attractive and creative ADA signs in Westchester County, and we provide comprehensive installation guidelines and assistance. The following is a brief introduction to ADA sign installation, and a complete guide can be found here. When in doubt, you can consult your local building authorities, the ADA website, or a member of our team for additional assistance.
Height Requirements
The tactile portion of your signs, the braille or raised text, needs to fall between 48” and 60” from the ground – no lower than 48” and no higher than 60”. The non-tactile text should lie between 40” and 70 inches from the floor.
Location Requirements
The location of your signs depends on the specifics of your space. Signs should be placed in clearly visible areas that will not be obscured by open doors, furniture, plants, or anything else. Signs cannot block or interfere with door functions, emergency equipment, or overhead sprinklers.
Door Signage
– Single doors:
-
- Signs must be installed on the latch-side wall at least 3 inches from the door frame.
- If the wall on the latch side will not accommodate a sign, the sign will be installed on the adjacent wall.
- Signs that include tactile text must be installed so that 18 inches by 18 inches of clear floor space beyond the opening arc of the door between closed and 45 degrees open is available for the individual to read the sign safely.
– Double doors:
-
- Double doors with two active doors: When both doors are active, signs should be mounted at least 3 inches to the right of the right-hand door.
- Double doors with one active door: When only one door is active, the sign should be installed on the inactive door.
– Doors that swing inward:
-
- In the case of doors that swing inward, tactile signs can be mounted on the push side of the door if the following two criteria are met:
- The door closes automatically (such as a kitchen door that automatically swings shut)
- The door does not have a hold-open device
– Doors that swing outward:
- When doors swing outward, tactile ADA signs are to be installed on the wall at a distance outside the arc of the door swing. This minimum of 18” square of floor space keeps users safe when reading the sign.
Other Signs
– Overhead Signs:
-
- The bottom of any overhead sign should be a minimum of 80” from the floor.
– Projecting Wall Signs:
- Outward projecting signs hung on walls must be installed at least 27” from the ground and cannot project out from the wall more than 4”.
The Bottom Line
Help everyone feel welcome in your building by installing ADA compliant signage throughout. Looking for “ADA signage near me?” Visit adaptivesignage.com to find exceptional signs, exceptional prices, and exceptional customer service. If you’ve got a building, we’re ready to make your signs. Contact us today to get started.