ADA Braille signs are sign markings that adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 which provides requirements for public buildings so that anyone may have equal access. The ADA law is comprised of 5 sections called Titles and Title III which addresses “public accommodations” is probably the most expansive. Title III of the ADA covers all new buildings constructed but also states that existing buildings must comply with a few exceptions such as historic buildings. What that means is every building in the United States from large corporate buildings to mom and pop shops must ensure all their facilities are open to all who visit. Some of the more common areas addressed by property managers are wheel chair ramps, wide paths and Braille signs.

Hotels in particular usually need specific assistive devices for those in a wheelchair, blind, deaf or hard at hearing. Some of the common assistive devices hotels need include text telephones, visual/audio smoke alarms, telephone handset amplifiers and compliant ADA signs.

California of course is a beast all it’s own with special requirements above and beyond the Federal law. Braille signs in California have slightly different spacing requirements that are generally easier to read by blind patrons. The most common method to achieve California code compliance is to use “raster Braille” which includes drilling holes in the sign and placing round beads in the sign for a superior form of Braille that has a uniform round feel that allows a finger to easily glide across for quick reading. Although this difference may seem small the impact is a higher cost to manufacture the sign in return for an easier to read Braille sign. Other states do not mandate the same spacing as California, however; you can legally use signs that conform to California code in any state. If you have the budget for the more expensive California ADA signs then you should consider getting them no matter what state you live in since your blind customers will thank you for the better quality signs.

Exit Sign Warehouse is proud to provide Braille signs that meet all the ADA requirements including California. If you have any questions about purchasing signs or meeting state law requirements give Exit Sign Warehouse a call where a trained professional will help you pick the perfect signs to meet your needs. No more guessing if you are in compliance; now you will know.