Code signs are signs that are required by state and federal guidelines via the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA regulates accessibility; and includes requirements for signage that is conveniently located and easy to read both visually and through tactile touch. This can include interior signs that identify common rooms, restrooms, fire routes, exits and more. They include raised lettering as well as braille.
This category also encompasses exterior signage such as handicapped and accessible parking signs in lots and parking structures.
Code Signage Company
Integrated Signs keeps abreast of all current regulations so that we can make sure your project signs are compliant and will pass all fire and safety inspections, which is extremely important to your business.
To learn more about code signage and why Integrated Signs is a fantastic choice for all of your signage needs, keep reading.
What Is Code Signage?
Code signage is required signage that informs customers or business visitors about a variety of different on-site features.
A few examples include accessibility directions, areas of refuge, delayed emergency exit doors, electrical control and many more. Even a sign as simple as “No Smoking” is considered code signage and has specific interior signage requirements to be considered effective and up-to-code.
Each kind of code signage has its own requirements related to the wording that accompanies them to ensure they are used and operated properly. For example, the following signs must be visible in buildings with multiple floors:
- Floor level signage
- Story of exit discharge signage
- Roof access from exit enclosure discharge
Further, you must provide these signs on each floor’s landing where exit enclosures connect more than three floors. Also, you must place the signage 5 feet above the floor landing.
ADA Signage Requirements
Every sign has a different requirement from the International Building Code, also known as IBC, and the International Fire Code, or the IFC. Here are some general guidelines you’ll find for various code signage your business may need and some of the most common kinds of code signage. Keep in mind that every business is different, and therefore requires different ADA-compliant signs.
Exit Signage Requirements
Exit signs have the following requirements:
- All exits should have an approved exit sign visible from any direction
- No exit access corridor or passageway should be more than 100 feet from the nearest visible exit sign
Emergency Evacuation Signage Requirements
Emergency evacuation signage has the following requirements:
- Building must have approved fire safety and evacuation plans
- Building must have a map of exit routes, pull stations, fire extinguishers and a person’s current location
Elevator Emergency Signage
Elevator emergency signs have the following requirements:
- Must say “IN FIRE EMERGENCY, DO NOT USE ELEVATOR. USE STAIRS”
- Must use a standardized design of approved picture and text
- Must get posted next to every elevator call station
Code Signage Benefits
There are countless benefits of having code signage in your building. However, one of the most obvious is you will comply with the law. Code signage must be apparent and follow all the requirements listed for the sign type to keep the public safe while they’re in your establishment. Otherwise, you’re not providing a safe environment for visitors and could be punished by law.
Not only is code signage required, but it can also help your customers and visitors feel more comfortable. They’ll feel at ease knowing where everything is and how to use it properly.
Negative Impacts for Businesses That Do Not Have ADA Signs
When a disabled person enjoys an accessible experience, they can focus more on your product or service. When the experience is poor and they have difficulty navigating an area, it becomes the focus of their visit. Many disabled Americans receive poor service, which reflects poor professionalism and can become a talking point on social media about your business.
ADA Sign Types and Examples
Understanding ADA signs is vital when making decisions or designing and renovating public spaces. Learn how to bring the optimal experience to a diverse group of patrons to maintain legal compliance and welcome all of your guests.
California Title 24 Signs
California Title 24 is known for the highest standards of excellence in accommodating disabled patrons. This statute requires that signs in public spaces from hospitals to restaurants must have identification with a geometric shape. Men’s restrooms must be triangular, women’s restrooms must be round and gender-neutral restrooms must be circular with a triangular shape within.
Room Signs
Room signs are another notable step for accessibility. A room sign for a location like a conference or meeting room must have identifying marks. For example, they need to have Braille characters for blind readers and feature a glare-resistant surface with high contrast.
Area of Refuge Signs
An area of refuge sign is otherwise referred to as a rescue area or severe weather marker. These signs provide key information to people with mobility issues in an emergency. Examples include a pastoral care center, reading center or testing room.
The markers should indicate information like the location of a storm shelter or evacuation route in the event of severe weather or unrest. Then, individuals with disabilities can wait at these locations for help exiting the building.
Handicap Park Signs
Handicap parking areas indicate where individuals with disabilities can park. The area is exclusive to individuals with handicaps, and each spot is liable for towing or a significant fine. These areas allow disabled patrons to walk or travel short distances to the main entrances and exits of a building.
Materials Used
Integrated Signs understands that there are a wide variety of ADA-approved surfaces for creating accessible signage. Various sign types are excellent choices for reducing the chances of vandalism while meeting ADA requirements for high-quality Braille lettering. The materials we use include acrylic, photopolymer and etched zinc and Magnesium.
Acrylic
Acrylic signs use a specialized method of manufacturing with engraving. To begin, the manufacturers engrave the Braille by drilling precision holes into the acrylic. Then, they force the formation of extremely small acrylic balls that form Braille characters. This type of Braille, known as Raster Braille, looks like a natural part of the acrylic surface. It also prevents vandals from picking off the characters or otherwise vandalizing the Braille.
Etched Zinc and Magnesium
Zinc and Magnesium are two metal types that are often chosen for accommodating Braille readers. Typically, the process requires the manufacturer to laminate a 16-gage sheet of the desired metal. This form of Braille material has the highest resistance against vandalism and is a durable choice for interior and exterior solutions.
Photopolymer
Photopolymer is another unique surface created with light-sensitive resin. When the manufacturer exposes the resin to high-intensity ultraviolet light, the surface hardens and changes. Exposing the material through a photographic method allows us to display virtually any images and text that you might desire from the material for indoor and outdoor signs.
Where to Install ADA Signs in Your Business
There are a variety of common places where ADA designs are required at your business, including:
- Entrances
- Exits
- Elevators
- Restrooms
- Parking areas
Code Signage Applications
Interior signage requirements outline various code signage applications for your business. For example, fire code mandates you must have signs showing where storage is prohibited, while your elevators need to have signs explaining what to do in an emergency. ADA signage requirements have their own applications, as code signage needs to show where you can exit the building and what to do in case of a fire.
Choose Integrated Signs in San Diego for your ADA & Code Signage!
At Integrated Signs, we use the latest and greatest in machinery to make sure that your final product is one you love. We were founded on 20 August 1982 in San Diego County, and therefore have decades of experience across many different industries. Contact us today for more info on our code signage!