Every space, public or private, needs to have an evacuation plan. It’s the strategy you and your staff follow when an emergency strikes, and you need to get everyone out of the building safely. That strategy also needs to comply with the rules laid out in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
However, you don’t want to wait for an emergency to figure out that your evacuation maps aren’t up to code—or worse, that they don’t actually help everyone get out safely. The ADA isn’t just about ramps and restrooms; it plays a critical role in emergency planning, making sure evacuation routes are accessible to everyone.
There’s a lot to know about ADA-compliant emergency planning, especially when it comes to creating your evacuation maps. Let’s talk about how to get it right.
What Makes an Evacuation Map Truly Accessible?
A good evacuation map must go beyond legal minimums. It should be clear, intuitive, and effective in real-world emergencies. The goal is simple: guide every occupant—regardless of ability—to safety.
ADA Essentials for Evacuation Maps
- Clear, high-contrast visuals – Make maps readable at a glance with strong color contrast for key routes and exits.
- Braille and tactile elements – Include raised text and Braille at strategic points to support non-visual readers.
- Icons and universal symbols – Use standardized visuals to improve comprehension under stress.
- Accessible routes clearly marked – Show exits, refuge areas, and pathways for individuals with mobility impairments.
- Alternate routes – Plan for secondary routes if primary paths are obstructed.
- Simple, easy-to-understand design – Avoid visual clutter. Focus on essential guidance for faster interpretation.
- Prominent placement – Post maps near elevators, lobbies, hallway junctions, and other high-visibility areas.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
- Mounted too high or too low – Place maps between 48 and 60 inches from the floor for ADA compliance and accessibility.
- Inconsistent labeling – Use uniform naming conventions across all maps (e.g., don’t switch between “Exit A” and “Main Stairwell”).
- No auditory guidance – In facilities for blind or low-vision individuals, include audio options or alerts where possible.
Proactive Planning: ADA Evacuation Compliance Checklist
- Are accessible exits and refuge areas clearly marked?
- Is the universal accessibility symbol in use?
- Is the map mounted at a compliant height?
- Are fonts and icons high-contrast and legible?
- Does the map include Braille and tactile elements where needed?
- Are emergency tools (extinguishers, AEDs, alarms) shown and placed accessibly?
Beyond Compliance: Designing for Real People
ADA compliance is only the beginning. Great evacuation maps are built for real-life use—by people who may be disoriented, frightened, or mobility-impaired. The more intuitive your design, the safer your building becomes for everyone inside.
Emergencies won’t wait. Take the steps now to create maps that support everyone’s safety, every time.
Need help? Call us at (888) 807–5697 or email customerservice@maxsafety.com for support with ADA-compliant signage and maps.
🛒 Explore MaxSafety’s ADA Signage Solutions
