Photo from Unsplash

Originally Posted On: https://martinadasigns.com/why-ada-signs-matter-in-the-workplace/

 

Did you know that around 54 million Americans have disabilities? For businesses, there are a lot of things to think about when it comes to being accessible to everyone.

From the products and services you offer to the way, your workplace gets designed, inclusivity should be at the forefront of your mind. One area that is often overlooked but is extremely important is having proper ADA signage.

ADA signs are not just a nice thing to have they’re actually required by law in many cases. Keep reading, and we will explore why ADA signs matter in the workplace and how you can ensure your business is in compliance.

What Are ADA Signs?

As a business owner, you are responsible for ensuring that your workplace is accessible to all employees, including those with disabilities. One way to do this is by using ADA signs.

ADA signs are signs that have been specifically designed to be accessible to people with disabilities. They include features such as Braille, raised lettering, and contrast colors to make them easier to read.

Using ADA signs in your workplace shows that you are committed to inclusion and accessibility. It also helps create a more comfortable and safe environment for everyone.

Who Are ADA Signs for?

There are many different types of ADA signs, but they all have one common goal: to make businesses and other public places accessible to people with disabilities.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to provide equal access to goods and services for people with disabilities. This includes making sure that signage is accessible and easy to understand.

There are a few different types of ADA signs, including:

• braille signs
• tactile signs
• visual signs

Each type of sign has a different purpose, but they all work together to create an accessible environment for everyone.

The Importance of ADA Signs in the Workplace

As more and more businesses become ADA-compliant, it’s important to make sure that your workplace is too. ADA signs are an important part of this process, as they help to make your workplace more accessible for everyone.

There are a few different types of ADA signs that you can use in your workplace. The most common type of sign is the Braille sign, which helps those who are blind or have low vision to navigate your workplace. These signs are required in all public buildings, so if you haven’t already installed them, now is the time!

Another type of ADA sign that you might consider using in your workplace is tactile signs. These consist of raised or embossed signage that can be felt by those who are blind or have low vision. These signs can get used in conjunction with Braille signs to provide even more accessibility for your employees and customers.

ADA compliance is important for all businesses, but it’s especially important if you want to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. By installing ADA signs in your workplace, you’re taking an important step towards making your business more inclusive for everyone.

Where Should ADA Signs Be Displayed?

There are many places where ADA signs should be displayed in the workplace. Here are just a few examples:

• At the entrance to the building
• In front of elevators
• In front of restrooms
• On doors leading into offices or other rooms
• Near exits
• In parking garages or parking lots

Display them prominently and make sure they are visible from afar so that employees and visitors with disabilities can easily find their way around your workplace.

What Are the Benefits of ADA Signs

There are many benefits of ADA signs in the workplace. These benefits range from making your place of business more accessible to giving your brand a good name.

Let’s talk about some of the benefits.

Equal Access

ADA signs help to ensure that employees with disabilities have the same access to facilities and services as everyone else. Additionally, ADA signs can help to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone in the workplace.

Improve Communication

Another benefit of ADA signs is that they can help to improve communication between employees and customers or clients with disabilities. By clearly labeling entrances, exits, restrooms, and other areas of importance, ADA signs can help to make sure that everyone is able to navigate the workplace easily and effectively.

Comply With Federal Regulations

ADA signs can also help businesses to comply with federal regulations regarding accessibility for people with disabilities. By having the proper signage in place, businesses can avoid potential penalties or fines for non-compliance. In addition, displaying ADA signs can show that a business is committed to being accessible and accommodating for all employees and customers.

Protect Customers and Employees

ADA signs can also help to protect customers and employees from potential hazards in the workplace. By clearly labeling areas that may pose a danger, businesses can help to keep everyone safe.

Boost Your Brand Image

Displaying ADA signs can also help to boost your brand image. Customers and clients will see that you are committed to being accessible and accommodating, which can make them more likely to do business with you. In addition, employees will appreciate working for a company that values inclusion and accessibility.

How to Choose the Right ADA Signs for your Workplace

How do you choose the right ADA signs for your workplace? There are a few factors to consider when selecting the right ADA signs for your workplace.

Identify What’s Required by ADA

First, identify what the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires for your workplace. Many employers are not aware that there are specific ADA requirements for signage in the workplace.

The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination. It requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, and this includes providing accessible signage.

There are two types of signs that must be compliant with ADA: permanent signs and temporary signs. Permanent signs include things like building identification and entrance signs, room identification signs, and directional signs. Temporary signs include things like event and sale signs.

If you have any questions about whether or not your workplace needs to be compliant with ADA, you should consult with an ADA specialist or an attorney who specializes in employment law.

Determine the Type of Signage You Need

Once you’ve determined that your workplace needs to be compliant with ADA, you need to decide what type of signage you need. There are three main types of signage: raised lettering, braille, and pictograms. Each type of sign has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the type of sign that will work best for your workplace.

Raised Lettering

Raised lettering is the most common type of ADA sign. It’s easy to read and can get used for a variety of purposes, including room identification, entrance signs, and directional signs.

One drawback of raised lettering is that it can be difficult for people with low vision to read. Another drawback is that it can be difficult to find raised lettering signs that match the style of your workplace.

Braille

Braille signs are designed for people who are blind or have low vision. Braille is a system of raised dots that can be read by touch. Braille signs are typically made of metal or plastic, and they can get used for a variety of purposes, including room identification, entrance signs, and directional signs.

One drawback of braille is that it can be difficult to find braille signs that match the style of your workplace. Another drawback is that braille can be difficult to read if you don’t know how to read it.

Pictograms

Pictograms are symbols that represent words or ideas. They’re often used on products such as shampoo bottles and food packaging. Pictograms can also get used on signs, and they’re a good option for workplaces that need to be accessible to people with a variety of disabilities.

One drawback of pictograms is that it can be difficult to find pictogram signs that match the style of your workplace. Another drawback is that pictograms can be difficult to read if you don’t know what they represent.

Choose a Signage Provider

Once you’ve determined what type of signage you need, you need to choose a signage provider. There are a few things to consider when choosing a signage provider, including price, quality, and customer service.

It’s important to find a provider that offers high-quality signs at a fair price. It’s also important to find a provider that offers excellent customer service. You should always ask for references and check online reviews before choosing a signage provider.

What Features Make ADA Signs Compliant?

There’s a lot to consider when choosing ADA signs. Different features are required to make your signs compliant, and these features will benefit people with various disabilities.

Non-Glare Finish

ADA signs must be made with non-glare materials. The last thing you want is for your sign to cause distraction or headaches.

When choosing an ADA sign, try to select materials that are matte in color rather than glossy. This can help prevent glare and make the sign easier to read.

Fonts and Symbols

All fonts and symbols on an ADA sign should be easy to read. Block letters with high-contrast colors are often used. This allows people of all ages and abilities to quickly identify what the sign says without getting distracted or confused by other elements within the design.

There are also some specific requirements when it comes to fonts and symbols on ADA signs:

The font size must be at least 5/8 inches high. In addition, the stroke width should be at least 10% of the letter height.

Viewing Distance

When you’re creating an ADA sign, you must also take into account how far away people will be from the sign. The further away someone is, the larger the font on your sign needs to be in order for it to be readable.

There are some specific requirements when it comes to viewing distance and ADA signs:

For signs that are less than 60 inches off the ground, letters should be at least 2 inches high. For every additional foot above 60 inches, add 1/2 inch to the letter height. For example, if your sign is 80 inches off the ground, the letters should be at least 3 inches high.

If your sign will be more than 7 feet away from viewers, use upper and lower case letters. If viewers are closer than 7 feet, all capital letters can be used.

Signs that Require Pictograms

ADA signs that require pictograms need to follow some specific guidelines. For example, the international symbol of accessibility should be at least 6 inches high and placed on the push side of the door.

There are also requirements for braille on ADA signs. All braille on an ADA sign must be raised 1/32 of an inch above the sign’s surface, and the dots within each braille cell must be round rather than square.

Get the ADA Signs You Need to Be Compliant

ADA signs matter in the workplace because they ensure that employees with disabilities can navigate the workplace safely and effectively. By clearly labeling exits, restrooms, and other important areas, ADA signs help to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. When choosing ADA signs for your workplace, be sure to consult with an expert to ensure that you are choosing the right sign for your needs.

Are you ready to find the right signs for your workplace? Get a custom quote for the signs you need from a manufacturer that understands the requirements.