These days, our world is becoming gradually aware of the importance of inclusivity; accessibility signage plays an essential role in ensuring that everyone can navigate public spaces with ease and confidence.
As one of the progressive countries, Canada has been at the forefront of implementing innovative solutions to enhance accessibility for all. Whether you run a café in Toronto or any corporate office, you should be aware of the basic guidelines of the country’s accessible signage solutions.
Suppose you want to design and install accessible wayfinding signs in Toronto so that your employees can easily navigate inside office premises. In that case, you should consult with a reputed sign shop in your area.
This blog also emphasizes the revolution of wayfinding accessible signs in Canada, their impact on individuals with disabilities, and what are the rules & regulations for designing and installing accessible signs in the country.
Understanding accessibility signage
Accessibility signage solutions come up with different visual signs, symbols, and information that are specially designed for disabled people so that they can comfortably and independently navigate the surroundings.
These signs contain many things, including important information, directions, a layout of the space, and any potential obstacles that may hinder mobility.
According to a study report by CNIB, nearly 500,000 Canadians are blind or partially blind. Another 1.5 million citizens are suffering from some degree of sight loss. Accessible signage is paramount for these people. They may face challenges or difficulties while passing through an office building or other public places without a proper sign. Here comes accessible signage that creates a warm and safer environment for these visually impaired people.
If business owners in Canada don’t follow the guidelines for installing and designing accessible signs, they may face stringent consequences like
· A heavy penalty
· Lawsuits against their companies
· Negative PR
What are the rules for designing and installing accessible signs in Canada?
The country passed the Accessible Canada Act in 2019. Since then, drastic steps have been taken to ensure that the act is stringently followed across the country. The prime objective of this act is to make Canada a barrier-free country for all.
When it comes to installation, accessible signs should be implemented in the following places.
· Restrooms
· Changing rooms
· Stairs & elevators
· Electric/equipment rooms
· Kitchen
· Storage rooms
· Break rooms
Designing guidelines for accessible signs in Canada
Though the guidelines may vary in different provinces in Canada, there are still some standard rules that are welcomed by all.
Non-shimmer finish
According to the Canadian Standard Association (CSA), accessible signs should have a non-glare finish. When designing the signs from the best sign shop in Toronto, you should tell them to use matte or other non-glare finishes so that they can be readable even from afar.
Use color contrast
CSA has recommended using a high level of contrast between the background and text of the signs. You can either place the loud colors in the background or text and vice versa. The prime objective is to ensure that the text doesn't get mixed with the background.
Raised text and braille
Raised text and braille lettering play an important role for visually impaired people. According to the government, braille should be round, left-aligned, and placed horizontally. Capital letters can't be used on braille except for emergency guidelines. The standard for braille in the entire country is Unified English Braille.
Multilingual design
Depending on the location of your business, you may need to include additional texts in French. Only a multilingual design ensures all visitors can read and understand the meaning of the signs. In such scenarios, braille should be incorporated beneath the texts.
San Serif Font
According to the CSA, your font should be sans Serif for accessible signage. Some common examples of sans serif fonts are Arial, Futura, Helvetica, and Trebuchet. Try to avoid any stylized font, as they may be difficult to read.
Uppercase and lowercase
The CSA offers flexibility while choosing the uppercase and lowercase letters. For accessible signs, you need to use uppercase letters only for the initial letter, as this could increase the chances of recognition.
Accessibility Symbols
The CSA guideline also recommends the use of the international symbol of access wherever accessible facilities are recognized.
Recommended reading: Safety Signs: What signs does your business need in Toronto?
The impact of accessible signs on individuals
Comprehensive and clear, accessible signage solutions have a significant impact on individuals with disabilities. They may feel uncomfortable while navigating public places, fearing they will encounter barriers or obstacles at every moment. By offering proper guidance, these accessible signs help visually impaired people travel to any public area with poise and freedom.
These signs also offer clear information and direction, reducing the stress and anxiety associated with navigating unfamiliar surroundings.
Canada has taken significant steps towards creating more inclusive environments by implementing accessible signs in all public places and office premises. From airports and train stations to parks and museums, all public places in the country adopt the principles of universal design. The government passed the Accessible Canada Act in 2019, ensuring that everyone has the same confidence and comfort in public areas.
One noteworthy example is digital signage and wayfinding apps, which offer real-time information and customized navigation assistance to disabled people. These digital solutions not only improve accessibility but also offer excellent adaptability and convenience for all users.
Conclusion
Canada has taken some noteworthy steps for accessibility signage, but more efforts are required so that everyone can fully contribute to society and participate in this revolution. Since technology is evolving with each passing day, awareness of accessibility issues will also grow. In the future, we may encounter more innovative solutions that will change the definition of signs.
By embracing the principles of inclusivity and universal design, Canada can continue to lead the way in creating a more accessible and equitable society for all. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind and that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Do you run a business in Canada and need accessible signs for your office complexes? Contact Signs Depot. As an established signage company in Canada, we are completely aware of the government rules and regulations for accessible signs. Our experts design the best accessible wayfinding signs that will not only make navigation easier for your offices but also offer an equal environment for all.
Apart from wayfind signs, we also provide all types of outdoor, custom, digital, and indoor signs in Toronto.
For more details about our work, please check the portfolio on our website.
FAQs
Can accessible wayfinding signs benefit individuals without disabilities?
Accessible wayfinding signs benefit everyone. They are designed to improve navigation for everyone, irrespective of disability. Clear, well-designed signs improve the overall user experience, minimize confusion and stress, and uplift efficiency in navigating public spaces for all individuals.
Can technology enhance accessible wayfinding signage?
Technology can improve the accessibility of wayfinding signage in many ways. For example, digital displays offer dynamic, real-time information updates and interactive maps. Mobile apps with accessibility features like voice guidance and screen reader compatibility can complement traditional signage to provide comprehensive navigation support.
