If you own a store or business location, you need to be aware of custom ADA signs and their requirements. These requirements are put in place by the Americans with Disabilities Act, and not complying with the rules can result in a hefty fine. Your first-time penalty is $75,000, and they charge an additional $150,000 per violation, so being compliant is something that you want to take seriously. We suggest ordering custom ADA signs from a professional sign company who is familiar with the ADA rules, so you can avoid getting fined.
4 Major ADA Sign Requirements to Remain Compliant with
1. ADA sign height and the location of the sign
You need to ensure that you read the guidelines for height and location to mount your ADA signs. There are different regulations for single doors, double doors, inward swinging doors, and outward swinging doors. For example: if you have a single door, you need to mount the sign to the left of the latch beside the door. Whereas, double doors, where both doors open, the sign needs to be on the right side of the right door. As well, you need to be cognizant of emergency exits and make sure that your signs are not blocking any emergency equipment, sprinklers, or door functionality.
2. Visibility and use of standard ADA colors
Various mixes of color palettes create hard to read signs or illegible text. That is why the use of standard ADA colors and anti-glare paint is essential for your sign. The standard colors include dark greens, browns, some purples, reds, dark blues, and burgundies. Each sign studio will have its list of compliant colors, and they will do their best to integrate your company colors into your signs. A great example of a common sign that follows the American with Disabilities Act rules is ADA restroom signs. Blue and white are great contrasting colors and are easy to read together.
3. Character spacing
The largest issues with character spacing stem from signs that have more than one message and two sizes of fonts. You need to follow the standard for the actual letters or tactile letters as they call them and braille letters. For tactile characters, the letters need to be a minimum of ⅝” and a maxim of 2”. However, there are separate rules for signs that provide dual information. For instance, you may have a sign that says your message in tactile lettering and the same message underneath in braille. This dual type of sign has different requirements.
4. Proper inclusion of braille letters
When printing your braille signs, you need to check that the dots are appropriately spaced and at the correct height. Improper spacing and placement of the dots will create improper messaging and confusion for your visibly impaired customers.
What Are Fines and Penalties For Not Complying with ADA Requirements?
One of the main reasons business get fined for improper ADA signs are due to these four factors: lack of braille, the font size is too small, the improper spacing between letters, and incorrect raised character height. However, these fines can be avoided entirely if you work with a professional sign studio like Signs Now. Contact our sign specialists to learn more about ADA sign requirements and start creating your custom ADA signs in Lake County, IL.
