Ultimate Accessibility — Major Goal of Public Space Organisation
Accessibility to a public space should not be a privilege. Luckily, society has started understanding it and things are now changing. Somebody might call those changes slow, and there cannot be any argumentation against that statement, but at the same time, we have to agree that ultimate accessibility has become a more common thing over recent years. This is reflected through the amount of ADA-compliant door signage.
Of course, ADA-compliant door signage is not the only element that enhances accessibility for disabled individuals. However, it is non-reasonable to dispute the fact that it is an important element of the whole inclusivity system, at least from the perspective of wayfinding. So let us find out more about custom ADA signs.
ADA Signs Explained
The Americans with Disability Act was passed in order to improve the conditions of public places from the perspective of disabled citizens. Door signage is just a small part of this big bill. According to those requirements, door signage can be called compliant only if it applies tactile characters, and contrasting colors, and is placed properly. From this, we can draw a conclusion that ADA door signage is intended mostly for people with vision impairments who cannot navigate around the place using their eyes only.
Types of ADA Signage
- ADA Braille Signs: Braille fonts are designed for people with complete vision loss to assist them in reading the necessary information. This is a simple system that can be easily incorporated with interior door signs.
- ADA Restroom Signs: Not only door signage has to correspond to the ADA requirements. Those rules are also relevant to certain areas. A restroom is a good example. An ADA restroom sign means that the toilet area meets the inclusivity requirements, so disabled individuals can access their basic amenities.
- ADA-compliant Parking Signs: Every parking area should have a place intended for disabled drivers. Thus, these areas should be properly marked with understandable and durable outdoor signage.
The Capabilities of Custom ADA Signs
You have probably noticed that we mentioned the importance of custom door signs. Why not simply buy standard door plaques? Why should you look for bespoke wayfinding inventory?
The first reason is that not all standard signs meet the ADA requirements. Thus, they cannot communicate the necessary information to their target audience effectively.
The second reason is that standard door signs are too hackneyed. They neither express nor reflect your personality. Standard signs made for bulk orders cannot give a touch of uniqueness and personalisation to your facility. This is important from the point of view of branding, so we suggest you do not neglect such factors.
The Final Word
On the whole, today, ADA signage is not a gesture of kindness — it is a necessity that shows whether you understand, appreciate, and share the values of modern society. Keep an eye on your space organisation if you aim to invite every customer in a comfortable environment.