Adhering to ADA compliance codes for signage is crucial for any building owner. Nova Polymers prioritizes ADA education to help ensure compliance. Each year, Nova Polymers engages with over 100 architectural firms and, as the largest manufacturer and distributor of photopolymer sign products, reaches more than 2,500 architectural professionals. Nova provides educational webinars on ADA braille sign specifications to designers and architects each month. Our efforts here are to support the design community as well as the disabled community.
The Importance of ADA Compliance Codes
In one word—crucial. Imagine navigating a built environment without ADA-compliant braille signs if you were blind or visually impaired. The absence of compliant signage can create significant functional barriers, similar to a person in a wheelchair trying to navigate steps without accessible ramps.
How ADA Compliance Codes Are Evolving
Currently, there is a strong focus on improving standards to better assist individuals with disabilities. Efforts are ongoing to refine aspects like sign height, placement, and thickness to ensure they meet ADA compliance codes. Continuous feedback to the Access Board is helping to advance these standards.
Common Mistakes in ADA Compliance
Several common mistakes undermine ADA compliance:
- Insufficient Signage: Not all rooms or areas are identified properly.
- Missing or Vandalized Braille: Braille may be absent or damaged by vandalism.
- Inaccurate braille to the sign intention or in translation.
- Non-compliant braille size, spacing, or shape (non-domed Braille).
- Incorrect Placement: Signs may be placed too far from doors or on doors, making them difficult to locate or read.
Integrating Design with ADA Compliance Codes
Designers invest heavily in creating aesthetically pleasing buildings. Signage should enhance this design rather than detract from it. Nova Polymers provides materials that can match any construction or design intent, ensuring that 100% ADA-compliant signage complements the overall design.
Addressing Security and Vandalism
For the visually impaired, easily readable and traceable signage is essential for navigating spaces independently. Vandalism of signs not only disrupts accessibility but also incurs ongoing replacement costs for building owners. Nova Polymers’ braille sign materials are designed to be 100% ADA compliant, chemical resilient, and durable, which minimizes damage and staves off replacement costs.
Contact Nova Polymers today for more information on how to ensure your signage meets ADA compliance codes and explore solutions that balance functionality with design.
