ADA signage basics

Which signs need tactile text and Braille?

Signs identifying permanent rooms and spaces—such as restrooms, room and floor numbers, conference rooms, and mechanical rooms—generally must meet tactile and visual sign requirements. Interior directional and informational signs generally must meet visual requirements but do not have to be tactile.

What tactile signs include

Tactile signs use raised characters with corresponding contracted, or Grade 2, Braille. Characters and their background require a non-glare finish and light-on-dark or dark-on-light contrast. The ADA Standards do not prescribe particular sign colors.

Installation is part of accessibility

Federal requirements address mounting height, door-side placement, clear floor space, and door swing. Tactile characters are generally positioned between 48 and 60 inches above the finished floor, and a sign at a single door is generally placed on the latch side.

The customer or installer should confirm the final location and any additional state, local, or project requirements.