61 million people in the U.S. live with a disability, according to the CDC. Those who have some type of disability may need help finding their way around a shopping mall, using the restrooms, avoiding slippery floors, and the like. Simple daily tasks that many take for granted, may not be as easy for others.
The Americans with Disabilities Act has helped to change that. Now, most commercial and public spaces must install ADA signs (or ‘accessible signs’). These signs are vital for a large portion of the population and essential for your business.
Learn more about the four important reasons why you need to have accessible signs at your business and how an experienced sign company that prepares ADA signage near you can help.
1. Making Sure You Don’t Discriminate Against Individuals with Disabilities
Accessible signs help people with disabilities feel safe and comfortable in your establishment. These vital signs allow people with visual and mobility impairments to move around your premises on their own.
These signs also keep people safe, for instance, warning them of stairwells and hazards. Other signs such as ADA washroom signs are essential for helping people find washrooms on their own. These crucial signs can have a significant impact on your visitor experience.
2. ADA Signs Make Spaces Accessible for People with All Types of Disabilities
It is a common misconception that accessible signs are only beneficial for people with visual impairments. Well-designed signs help people with other disabilities, such as hearing, mobility, and cognitive disabilities, navigate your business.
Custom ADA signs can be tailored to fit the needs of people with various disabilities, using different features within their design. Here are some examples of how you can customize your ADA signs to ensure that they are complaint:
- High-contrast design – This makes the sign immediately noticeable to everyone and helps them find accessible paths around the building.
- Loop system symbols – These symbols notify people that the equipment or facility is equipped with a T-system (telecoil), making it accessible for those who are hearing impaired.
- Wheelchair accessible ramps – These signs are installed in parking lots and by staircases to inform those who are in a wheelchair of a safe and accessible way to get around.
3. Show Customers and Visitors You Value Their Business
With 26% of Americans having at least one impairment, that’s a large portion of the population you cannot afford to ignore.
If you don’t install accessible signs, people without impairments may not notice them. However, people with disabilities definitely will. It can convey a poor impression about your business, making it look as if you don’t value all your customers. Make your customers feel welcomed and valued with custom ADA signs.
4. Don’t Risk Getting Fined (or Shut Down)
If you don’t install the requisite accessible signs at your business, you could be looking at a hefty fine. You can even get sued, or face closure, if you don’t have the right signs displayed.
ADA signs are required by law to be installed in any government, public, and commercial building. These regulations also apply to all new buildings and those that have been renovated after 2012.
You need to ensure that you have proper accessible signage. A design printed off the internet on a piece of paper won’t do. There are stringent requirements for ADA signs, meaning there are regulations that govern:
- How the signs should look.
- What features are needed on the signs?
- Where they should be installed.
Stay on the Right Side of ADA Sign Requirements with Jacksonville Signs and Graphics
Take advantage of a sign company that helps businesses across Jacksonville install ADA signs. When working with us,
- We’ll help you identify where you need to install the signs.
- Tell you about ADA sign requirements.
- Work with you to customize them by adding some of your branding elements.
Book your free consultation today with a leading sign company for ADA signage near you in Jacksonville.
