If you operate a business, public building, group occupancy location, or recreational facility, you need to see our examples of basic ADA signs. These signage setups are among the most confusing products currently on the market. In addition, if you live in California, it is even more confusing. Making mistakes routinely leads to citations and fines by the state. Here is what you need to know.
Understanding the California Building Code – in Addition to the ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) governs the design, production, and installation of specific wayfinding signs and room labels. It helps the differently-abled individual park in the parking lot, access the building, maneuver inside the location, and leave when business is conducted.
Early on, California was at the forefront of creating rules that support the individual. Therefore, there are laws on the books that require a different signage setup than you would typically expect. Cases in point are restroom signs. California mandates the display of two signs per public restroom. Moreover, they must feature geometric symbols tactile on one and the ADA-required Braille II, pictograph, and text that the other one specifies.
Besides that, there are installation differences. Standard ADA rules mandate mounting the products between 48 and 60 inches above the floor, with the Braille acting as the point of reference. Under California law, the installation must be 58 to 60 inches from the ground, with the symbol’s center being the measurement point. Engineers and architects keep an ADA Cheat Sheet handy to meet these – and other – requirements. You can find this free checklist here!
Focusing on Room Labels
In addition to the restroom signage, there are room labels. When your venue allocates permanent definitions for a space, it must feature a compliant sign. Requirements include a distinctive color contrast, raised lettering and numerals, Braille II dots, and mounting locations.
There are several material options to consider.
- Metal. Aluminum signs with die-cut metal letters create the raised surfaced you are looking for. Besides that, they are durable, which makes these signs ideal for interior and exterior displays.
- Acrylic. For a stylish presentation that perfectly fits interior décor and even brand colors, you cannot go wrong with acrylic. Our technicians paint it in the color you need. Moreover, we add raised lettering that looks stylish. We can integrate the Braille II to not interfere with the great looks of the product.
- Cast metal. Ultimate durability and chic can be yours with the help of cast metal that integrates the text’s raised elements. These signs are so durable that they will last for decades inside or out.
Do You Need More Examples of Basic ADA Signs?
The staff at All Star Signs understands that ADA-compliant signage can be confusing for many business owners. Not only do you need to meet the national standard, but there are also California rules that are significantly different. We can help. Our team routinely works with companies in and around the metro San Diego County area, including San Diego, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Encinitas, La Jolla, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. Call us today!