What are the rules for ADA pictograms and symbols?

An ADA pictogram is a standardized graphic symbol, such as the accessibility, restroom, or telephone symbol, that identifies a space for people who cannot read text. ADA Section 703.6 sets two hard rules: the pictogram must occupy a field height of 6 inches (150 mm) minimum, and characters and Braille must not be located inside that field. Instead, the descriptive tactile text and contracted Grade 2 Braille are placed below the pictogram field.

Do pictograms themselves have to be raised?

No. The pictogram graphic does not need to be tactile. Only the text descriptor beneath it must be raised 1/32 inch minimum and paired with Grade 2 Braille. Pictograms and their backgrounds must have a non-glare finish and contrast with each other (light on dark or dark on light).

What is the 6 inch field?

The 6 inch minimum refers to the overall background field the symbol sits in, not the symbol artwork itself. The symbol can be smaller as long as its field is at least 6 inches tall. That field height keeps the reserved zone clear so the symbol reads cleanly from a distance.

NameBadge builds ADA pictogram signage in-house on Mimaki UV flatbed presses and Trotec laser engravers, with the tactile text and Braille produced to code. Browse office signs to build a compliant restroom or facility set.