Designing and fabricating signage that meets ADA exit sign requirements is not just a matter of compliance—it’s a commitment to safety, accessibility, and inclusivity. Understanding the nuances of ADA exit sign requirements ensures that every project delivers reliable, code-compliant solutions that stand the test of time and use.

Why ADA Exit Sign Requirements Matter

ADA exit sign requirements are mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure that all individuals, including those with visual impairments, can safely and independently navigate buildings during emergencies. These standards are enforced by the Department of Justice and are integral to accessible design in all public accommodations.

Key ADA Exit Sign Requirements for Designers and Fabricators

1. Placement and Mounting

• Height: ADA exit signs must be installed so that the baseline of the lowest tactile character is at least 48 inches above the finish floor, and the highest tactile character is no more than 60 inches above the floor.
• Location: Signs should be mounted on the wall adjacent to the latch side of the door. For double doors, the sign is placed to the right of the right-hand door. For doors with only one active leaf, the sign location is centered on the inactive leaf.
• Clear Space: There must be at least 18 inches by 18 inches of clear floor space in front of the sign. For an outside swinging door sign location is outside the 45-degree arch.

2. Visual and Tactile Features

• Tactile Characters: All ADA exit signs must include raised characters and grade 2 braille. The tactile lettering must use sans-serif, all-capital fonts, with specific character height and stroke width ratios.
• Contrast and Finish: Signs must provide high contrast between background and lettering of a minimum of 65% light reflectance value, and use non-glare finishes to ensure legibility under varied lighting conditions.
• Pictograms: While not always required for exit signs, pictograms can be used to enhance quick identification and overcome language barriers.  Pictograms do not have to be raised, though they must meet contrast requirements. 

3. Specific Wording

• Standard Labels: The word “EXIT” is required on tactile exit signs at each grade-level exterior exit door. Additional wording such as “EXIT STAIR DOWN,” “EXIT RAMP UP,” or “EXIT ROUTE” may be required depending on the exit configuration and local codes.

4. Material and Fabrication Standards

• Durability: ADA exit signs must withstand constant tactile contact. Nova Polymers’ photopolymer substrates, such as Novacryl® EX™ for exterior use and Novacryl® PT or Acrylic™ for interior applications, are designed for high durability, moisture resistance, and consistent quality.
• Construction: Signs should be single-piece construction with integral raised characters and braille, not laminated or added on, to ensure longevity and compliance.
• Environmental Considerations: Nova Polymers’ materials are designed to be environmentally responsible, with options for LEED certification and efficient, low-waste fabrication processes.

ADA Exit Sign Requirements in Practice: Nova Polymers Solutions

Nova Polymers streamlines ADA compliance for architects and fabricators by providing a comprehensive range of photopolymer substrates and equipment. 

Novacryl® product lines offer:

• Consistent ADA-compliant tactile and braille features
• A variety of substrates for interior and exterior use
• High-contrast, non-glare finishes for optimal legibility
• Easy-to-follow processing steps that ensure every sign meets ADA exit sign requirements
• Training and support to keep your team up-to-date with evolving standards

Best Practices for Meeting ADA Exit Sign Requirements

• Always verify the latest federal, state, and local codes, as some jurisdictions (like California) have additional requirements for tactile wording and placement.
• Use high-quality photopolymer materials for durability and consistency—Nova Polymers’ substrates are engineered specifically for ADA-compliant applications.
• Ensure all fabrication steps, from artwork to installation, follow ADA guidelines for tactile character height, contrast, and mounting location.
• Take advantage of Nova Polymers’ training resources and support to minimize errors and streamline your workflow.

Partner with Nova Polymers for ADA-Compliant Exit Signage

Ready to take your ADA exit sign projects to the next level? Nova Polymers is your single source for innovative photopolymer signage equipment, materials, and software. Our expert team supports you every step of the way—from design to fabrication—to ensure your exit signage not only meets but exceeds ADA exit sign requirements. Contact Nova Polymers today to discover how our solutions can help you deliver safe, accessible, and compliant signage for every project.