Isbell Engraving, Inc.   P.O. Box 2789,  West Lafayette, IN  47996-2789 TEL: (765) 464-2435  FAX: (765) 464-2455

General Sign Info ...

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We manufacture two types of signs... Traditional Signs & ADA / Designer Signs...

Traditional signs are made of a two-color engraved plastic.   These signs include desk name plates, door name plates, general information, caution/warning, and directional signs.  They do not include raised letters or Braille.  You choose the dimensions (from 1" x 4" up to 12" x 24").  There are numerous color combinations to choose from.   We have the mounting, metal slide holders too.  "You describe it - we can make it!"   See Traditional for examples.

  ADA / Designer signs have "raised" upper case characters, grade-2 Braille, and proper non-glare color contrasting between background and character colors.   These signs must conform to ADA laws.

What is ADA?   "The Americans with Disabilities Act" became effective January 26, 1997.  These regulations published by the government, require that businesses and public facilities install improved signage to assist those patrons which may have visual impairments.  Check your state and local regulations for additional guidelines.

Which signs are affected by ADA law?  All permanent interior signs are affected by the law.   The definition of the word "permanent" is what is important here.   For instance, building directories are usually considered temporary signs so they do not need to comply.  Signs in businesses advertising special sales or offers are temporary.  Price tags and menus are also temporary.  However, businesses are expected to offer help to clients who are visually impaired with the following permanent signs:  room numbers and room names, (such as "Restroom"); identification of spaces (such as "Stairs" and "Exit"); and directional and explanatory or informational signs, (such as "X-Ray Department (with arrow)," or "No Smoking").  Additionally, compliant signs are not allowed to be installed on doors.  They must be installed on walls adjacent to the door, so that people with vision impairments will not be hit by the door if it opens.

The greatest effect of ADA regulations.  By far, the greatest effect are on facilities such as office buildings, health care facilities, educational institutions and hotels, where there are many rooms or suites.  Each of these spaces must be designated with a raised character and Braille identification sign installed in the proper location.

Designer signs.   The word "designer" refers to a variety of decorative architectural frames which may be included with an ADA compliant sign.   These frames are constructed of plastic or metal and come in many different sizes and colors.   Designer frames improve the overall look of permanent signs.    Additionally, signs with frames are easier to remove and reinstall when painting walls or changing wallpaper.  See ADA for examples.

home  /  badges   /  badge accessories  /  traditional signs  /  ADA signs  /   contact us

Isbell Engraving, Inc.   P.O. Box 2789,  West Lafayette, IN  47996-2789 TEL: (765) 464-2435  FAX: (765) 464-2455