Guide: Braille Signs Installations

In our last discussion, we delved into the specifics of installing wayfinding signs. Today, we shift our focus to the installation process for braille signs.

Braille Signs Overview

Braille signs are crucial for ensuring accessibility for visually impaired individuals, enabling them to read and navigate spaces independently. Named after its inventor, Louis Braille, the Braille system uses raised dots to represent letters, numbers, and punctuation marks.

Components of Braille Signs

• Braille cells are the fundamental building blocks of the Braille system. Each cell consists of up to six raised dots arranged in a 3×2 grid. The specific arrangement of dots represents different characters, including letters, numbers, punctuation, and even entire words or contractions in more advanced Braille systems.
• Raised Letters and Symbols also feature raised print characters or symbols, making them useful for both sighted and visually impaired individuals. These elements enhance accessibility for individuals with partial vision and those learning Braille, and may include both raised print and Braille text, allowing sighted individuals and those with visual impairments to read the same sign.
• Tactile Graphics provide spatial and contextual information through raised images or diagrams. They are especially useful in complex environments like museums, transportation hubs, and public buildings.

Types of Braille Signs

• Identification Signs: Include room numbers, office names, and restroom signs.
• Directional Signs: Assist with navigation, providing directions or indicating the location of facilities.
• Informational Signs: Convey general information about the environment, such as emergency procedures or building layouts.

Installation Guidelines for Braille Signs

• Height: The standard installation height is between 48 to 60 inches from the floor to the bottom of the Braille cell to ensure they are within easy reach of most users.
• Location: Signs should typically be placed on the latch side of the door, about 9 inches from the door frame. If there’s no space on the latch side, the next best position is the nearest adjacent wall or another logical position based on the space’s layout and as close as possible to the object they are indicating.
• Contrast: Ensure there is a high color contrast between the text and the background to make the sign more readable for those with partial sight.
• Surface: The surface should be non-glare to enhance readability by both touch and sight.
• Clear Space: Signs should have at least an 18×18 inch clear floor space in front to allow individuals to approach and read them without obstruction.
• Durability: Braille signs should be constructed from durable materials that can withstand regular touch, environmental conditions, and wear and tear.

Compliance and Standards

Braille signs must comply with regulations and standards set by various organizations, including:

• ADA Compliance: The Americans with Disabilities Act provides guidelines for the height, placement, and design of Braille signs to ensure they are accessible to all individuals.
• ISO Standards: The International Organization for Standardization offers guidelines on the design and use of tactile signs globally.
• Local Codes: Local building codes and regulations may have additional requirements or recommendations for Braille signage.

Installation Process

First, we conduct a thorough evaluation of the installation site to determine the optimal locations for each sign, considering accessibility requirements and user flow. With assigned personnel from the client, we identify potential obstructions and ensure the sign will be within easy reach and readable.

Thereafter, we clean the surface where the sign will be installed to remove any dust, dirt, or debris to ensure the area is dry and free of any substances that might affect the adhesion or mounting of the sign.

The next step is mounting signs using various methods, including adhesive backing, screws, or brackets. The choice of mounting method depends on the material of the sign and the surface it will be attached to. For permanent installations, screws or other secure fasteners may be used, particularly in areas where high durability is required, such as outdoor environments or high-traffic areas. ALWAYS follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously to ensure the sign is firmly and correctly attached. For adhesive-backed signs, press firmly to ensure full contact with the surface.

After installation, it is highly important to verify the sign’s position and height to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Ensure the Braille dots are properly formed and aligned, and that the sign is legible and tactilely readable.

In multi-story buildings, we always ensure consistency in sign placement on each floor to help users navigate more easily. In many cases, we use anti-vandalism measures in public areas to protect the signs from damage or removal.

If our client signs an extended contract with us, we do the following:

• Conduct regular inspections of signs to check for any damage or wear. Immediate replacement of damaged signs is crucial to maintaining accessibility.
• Clean the signs periodically with mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the raised dots or the sign’s surface.
• Ensure any updates to room names, numbers, or other information are promptly reflected in the signage to maintain accuracy.

To summarize: By adhering to these detailed guidelines and standards, Braille signs can significantly enhance the accessibility of public and private spaces, ensuring that visually impaired individuals can navigate and use facilities independently and safely. The installation of Braille signs is not just about compliance with regulations, but also about creating an inclusive environment for everyone. Please let us know if you need more details about the installation of these types of signs.