Whether you’re a new designer in the healthcare space or just need a refresh on compliance, there are several important ADA compliant healthcare signage tips that will ensure your designs meet code.
In Texas, there are some considerations to keep in mind when designing and producing ADA compliant healthcare signs. Take a look below to learn how to create proper ADA compliant signs for patients or visitors. We have also included some important info about keeping the size of the text within ADA guidelines as well the effective use of color and continuity for your interior hospital signage.
Color and Continuity
Certain colors have been proven to bring out certain moods and feelings. This is no different when it comes to hospital signage. Based on the reason a person is in the hospital you’ll want to use the color that is most associated with bringing out the desired mood in certain areas of the hospital or for certain signage. For example, green can be used to create a feeling of calm and balance.
Some areas need to elicit positivity, other areas should calm patients and visitors while other areas may need to be empathetic and comforting.
In addition, using bold colors to mark sections or areas of your hospital, which are applied to wayfinding, room signs and other interior design elements, can more easily orient patients to where they need to be.
Size of Text
In order to achieve compliance regarding the size of text on hospital signage, all fonts will need to be larger than what is typically used on interior signs. The text on ADA compliant signs should be a minimum of 1/2” capital letter height. In general, the size of ABA/ADA tactile text needs to be a minimum of 5/8” with no italics or overly bold lettering on the sign. This is one of the most specific codes and easiest to comply with.
Braille Sign Considerations
Braille signs need to be made of rigid material with a non-glare finish. Braille lettering should be precisely sized and shaped with dome lettering (AKA not pointed or flat). Raised symbols on the sign (pictogram) must be in their own 6” high field and the letter font must be sans serif and in all uppercase lettering. There must be a contrast between the elements present on the sign so they can be tactilely distinguished.
We hope these tips were helpful in designing or updating the signs at your healthcare facility, but if you have more questions or want to talk about options regarding your design please contact us.
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