What is the ADA?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of life, including workplaces, schools, transportation, and public places. The law was enacted in 1990 and has been amended several times since then, most recently in 2010. The ADA also provides guidelines for the design of signs and buildings, known as the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (ADAAG)..jpg)
What Are the Requirements for Sign-Compliance with the ADA?
For signs to comply, they must meet the following general guidelines:
Must be placed at least 48 inches above the ground
Must be placed in a location accessible to all individuals
Must be legible and visible to individuals with vision impairments
If a facility or service is accessible to individuals with disabilities they must include the international symbol of accessibility,
Some signs, such as exit signs and directional signs, must also meet specific requirements to comply with the ADA.
Exit signs must be illuminated and placed in a location visible from all points of travel within a building or facility.
Directional signs must include braille and raised characters and be placed in a location within reach of everyone, including those in wheelchairs.
What are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?
The penalties for businesses who do not comply with the ADA can be significant. Businesses and organizations may be subject to civil penalties of up to $75,000 for first offenses and $150,000 for subsequent violations. In addition, businesses and organizations who do not comply with the ADA may be required to make changes to their facilities and signs at their own expense to comply with the law.
What are Some Tips for Meeting Compliance Standards?
Install visible and legible signs which can be read from a distance of at least 50 feet.
Use high-contrast colors for text and background, such as black on white or white on black.
Make sure all characters on signs are at least two inches tall.
Use raised characters and braille on signs in locations within reach of both standing individuals and those in wheelchairs.
Install signs in multiple languages if they are likely to be seen by a diverse group.
Follow the specific requirements for exit signs and directional signs.
Regularly inspect signs to ensure they are in good condition and continue to meet all ADA requirements.
Choose a professional sign company experienced in making and installing ADA-compliant signs.
We’re FASTSIGNS® of Louisville, KY, and we have many years of experience helping businesses and organizations throughout Louisville with all their sign needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get started on your next project.