ADA Door Signs as Inclusivity Markers

Modern social norms have changed drastically from what they used to be a couple of decades ago. Strong attention to general inclusivity in public spaces is one of the best evidence of this change. Today, accessibility and inclusivity are not just empty words but real social norms that have to be respected and followed by everyone.

The role of inclusivity in public spaces should nott be underestimated. However, unfortunately, even those who have this understanding might not always be able to realize which means can help achieve the desired goals. If you belong to this category, you should start organising an accessible space from the most basic details. Let us consider the importance of the ADA room name sign and the prospects of buying such signs from Bsign. 

What is an ADA Room Name Sign

We usually perceive room name plaques as visual wayfinding markers. However, some changes should be made to make sure these tools comply with the ADA requirements. ADA is a set of norms that strive to make public spaces accessible to people with physical disabilities. According to these norms, room name signs should be designed in a way that enables their tactile perception. For you, this means two things:

  • Characters and symbols should be raised from the background plate in order to become tactile;
  • An ADA room name plate can be equipped with inscriptions in Braille, which will make the plaque accessible even for people with complete vision loss.

Why ADA Room Name Signs Should Include Inscriptions in Braille

The inclusion of Braille is not required by ADA requirements — raised characters might be enough. However, if you truly care about every single visitor of yours, Braille should not be neglected. Here is a couple of reasons for that:

  • Inclusivity. For people who suffer from complete vision loss, it will be much easier to perceive a door sign with Braille.
  • Enhanced safety. Incorporating your space with ADA room name signs with Braille is one of the ways to make a public space safer. 

The ADA Requirements for Room Name Signs

Not all room name signs have to be ADA-compliant. These regulations are relevant only for permanent areas and signs that ensure space safety, like evacuation signage, fire safety plaques, etc. However, making every room name sign ADA-compliant would be a great gesture. So, make sure that your room name signs correspond to these requirements:

  • Visibility: An average visitor will be able to see your door plaque if it is placed not lower than eye level. This simple move will help you make sure that the plaque is visible from a distance.
  • Material durability: We do not recommend you buy door signs made of cheap generic materials. It is better to invest in some long-living and serviceable stuff, like stainless steel, acrylic glass, and wood.
  • Tactile elements: An ADA-compliant room name sign must include tactile elements, whether it is raised characters tactile pictograms, or inscriptions in Braille.
  • Compliance with other standards: You do not have to invent something new in order to make your ADA room name sign effective. Use standard and internationally recognisable pictograms, symbols, and writings. Thanks to this simple move, everyone will be able to understand a sign even without language knowledge.

The fact that your room name sign has to be ADA-compliant does not mean that you should neglect its style and design. If you want your room door sign to match the style of the surrounding setting, address specialists with real skill and expertise.

Bsign crafts unique custom-made room name signs. From them, you will get both functional and aesthetically appealing solutions.