Some signs stand out because of their use of visual pictograms and symbols (e.g., restroom, stairs, and exit). 

According to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, pictorial symbols have to accompany certain wayfinding messages. The numerous different pictograms and symbols can definitely be confusing, however, especially as they’re currently outlined in the Standards. Most people know what these visual icons look like, but their actual function is a lot more unknown. Our team at EvacuationPlans.com hopes to explain these differences and how it relates to your building.

As is always the case with tactile and visual requirements, different rules apply for each category, and they’re typically based on a sign’s purpose. Is the sign used to identify an individual permanent room or space (including exits)? If so, tactile rules apply, but if not, visual rules apply. 

For permanent rooms or spaces, symbols must go before ADA-compliant raised characters and braille. Section 703.6.3 of the Standards references sections 703.2, 703.3, and 703.4, which specify the substantive, corresponding elements of tactile accessibility signs. According to the pictogram rules, you have to start with a relevant pictorial image (e.g., bathroom, food service, etc.), placed within a 6″ field, and replicate the meaning of the image in raised text and braille.

Although the field is six inches, the pictorial image doesn’t have to be. In fact, there are no specific sizing requirements in the Standards: raised pictograms are not required, but are permitted. According to the Standards, raised elements go below the pictogram field, and verbally duplicates the meaning of the image. 

Second, if your sign only concerns the use of a facility, namely accessibility signage, then you only have to focus on color contrast. Contrast is very important with all accessibility signage, but with visual signs, no other rules apply, including those involving raised text or braille. 

The key to understanding the impact of ADA symbols, however, is understanding the purpose of the Standards as a whole. The ADA strives to promote a standardized means of communication, so it only outlines rules for universally adapted accessibility symbols. If it doesn’t involve accessibility, then the ADA is irrelevant, though technicalities do matter in regards to compliance. Pictograms have to meet all tactile rules, while symbols must meet all visual rules. All symbols relating to the use of a facility must have sufficient color contrast, but the ADA requires equivalent facilitation for accessibility symbols. This means that any alternatives have to be substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.   

With EvacuationPlans.com, you can be confident that all our facility interior signs adhere to the most up-to-date ADA Standards for Accessible Design. When you choose a sign color and sign type, our proprietary software automatically shifts to show only contrasting graphic colors. Our website also auto-generates the correct braille on tactile signs, giving you an automatic preview of the sign prototype.

Each of our signs are backed by unparalleled guarantees, including Life of the Building and ADA Compliance. If you have any questions about visual and tactile signage/standards, please contact us at 888.273.8726 or emailus@evacuationplans.com. We’re eager to hear from you.