The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a set of regulations which ensures public places are accessible to people with disabilities. Part of these accessibility regulations includes the installation of ADA signs.
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Here is a list of the essential areas where state and federal laws require ADA signs.
Elevators
Phones
ATMs
Restrooms
Exits and Entrances
Stairs
Parking Lot Loading Zones
Loading Docks
Fire Alarms
Waiting Rooms
Dressing Rooms
Near Machinery
Keep in mind, these are general guidelines. Some businesses have additional places where ADA signs are required depending on the type of business and the layout of the building.
When Must ADA Signs be Installed?
ADA signs must be installed when a new business moves into a building or when an existing business makes renovations which impact accessibility. This could include adding a new entrance, exit, or restroom.
ADA signs must also be installed when a business changes the use of a space. For example, if a build-out creates a new office space, the office will need new ADA signs.
How are ADA Signs Installed?
ADA signs must be installed at the proper height, with the correct type of mounting, and in appropriate locations.
The bottom edge of a wall-mounted ADA sign must be mounted between 48 inches and 60 inches from the finished floor.
If the sign is for a door, the sign must be on the latch side of the door between 48 and 60 inches from the ground.
When mounting overhead signs, the bottom of the sign must be at least 80 inches from the floor.
When mounting tactile and Braille signs, they must be reachable from a wheelchair and have proper clearance. They are required to be mounted between 48 and 60 inches from the lowest character to the floor.
ADA signs must be mounted with the correct type of hardware. Each sign should have either screws, stand-offs, or tamper-resistant fasteners.
Common Types of ADA Signs
Directional and wayfinding signs are designed to help manage traffic flow and guide guests through a building. Wayfinding signs usually include symbols and icons, like arrows, to support direction-giving instructions. Examples include: “Restrooms This Way” and “Emergency Exit,” along with an arrow pointing in the correct direction.
Informational signs give context to a rooms and spaces. They help the public understand what they can expect from the area, but don't necessarily identify the room’s purpose. They are also used to post notices and warnings. Examples include: “Do Not Enter” and “No Smoking."
Identification signs label important locations within a building, like conference rooms and restrooms. They help people identify the purpose of the space at a glance. Examples include: “Restroom” and “HR Department."
Overhead signs are mounted to ceilings and above doorways. They are commonly used to provide direction but can also be used for identification. Examples include: “Exit” and “Stairway."
We are FASTSIGNS® of Sacramento - Arden-Arcade, CA, and we are experts in ADA sign installations. Call or email us if you have any questions about ADA signs, or any other sign and graphics products or services.