Restroom signs are easily the most taken-for-granted indoor
signs – and one of the most useful too. Clearly labeled bathrooms are crucial
for making the space comfortable for visitors (and employees). There’s nothing
worse than guessing whether an unmarked door leads to a bathroom or an office!
Many major chains have long had ADA signs above the restroom door. Now, businesses across Kansas City, MO, are jumping on the bandwagon. Keep reading to find out why bathroom signs designed in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act are so important and some requisite features of ADA-compliant signage.
Why ADA-compliant Bathroom Signs
are Crucial
Whether you are moving to new premises or looking to modify
your existing space, you should invest in ADA bathroom signs for a number of
reasons:
- Make bathrooms more accessible for people with vision,
speech, hearing, and cognitive impairments. - Ensure your establishment is compliant with legal requirements
on accessibility. - Prevent chances of discrimination against visitors.
- Project an inclusive atmosphere for all your clients and
customers.
Characteristics of
ADA-compliant Signs
It is a misconception that ADA signage has to all look the
same. ADA signs can be customized for size, shape, design, and color. The Act
prescribes specifications that must be met in order to qualify as ADA signs,
not the same blue and white sign. For a full list of requirements for your ADA
signs above the bathroom door, speak to a representative. Find out below
some key characteristics of ADA bathroom signs.
- Braille lettering – Braille
characters are not always necessary, though required in most cases. Letters and
numbers must rise 1/32 inch above the signboard. If your sign includes
pictorial symbols, there must be a description of the same in braille. - Contrast and finish
–
Signs must be matte without any gloss or glare. Lettering and symbols must have
a stark contrast with the background (at least 70% contrast). Either the
letters or the background can be light or dark. - Mounting – Unlike
traditional signs, ADA signs are not mounted on the door itself but on the
nearest wall adjacent to the entryway. Signs have to be 60 inches above the
floor and mounted such that anyone can reach within 3 inches of the sign. That
means no obstructions can be present in front of the sign. Furthermore, doors
should preferably swing in a way that anyone looking at the sign is not struck
by it. - Symbols – Accessibility
symbols on restroom signs must adhere to the internationally accepted symbols
of accessibility.
Don’t want to do away with your existing washroom sigs? Many
businesses choose to have two separate sets of signage. Since ADA signs have to
be mounted on a static surface, they do not interfere/overlap with conventional
signage.
Happy Signs works with
businesses across the city for their ADA signage. Whether you are looking only
for bathroom signs or any other form of ADA signs, we are the team for you. We
build single signs and devise complete sign packages. Contact us to claim your
free signage consultation with one of our trained specialists.
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