The new Accessible Signage Guidelines are free to download through the RNZFB website at www.rnzfb.org.nz/signage
| What is an accessible sign? An accessible sign is one that everybody can read and understand, whether they read using sight or touch. An accessible sign should have: • High colour-contrasted print which is raised on the surface of the sign plate. • The equivalent text in braille. • Raised pictures (pictograms) if appropriate. Pictograms alone are not enough, always use text as well. |
The guidelines provide advice and technical specifications to make sure that clear print and braille signage is accessible. They are based on the New Zealand Standard NZS4121:2001: Design for access and mobility: buildings and associated facilities, but they provide more specific and detailed advice on signage design.
RNZFB Braille Awareness Consultant, Lisette Wesseling, says an accessible sign is one that everybody can read and understand, whether they read using sight or touch.
“At least 11,500 New Zealanders are blind or partially sighted and 125,000 people over 40 have significant sight loss that affects their ability to do everyday tasks like reading.
“The information conveyed by signage is important to all people, including those with sight loss. Accessible signage says ‘you are welcome!’ and ‘your safety matters’,” Lisette says.
Any sign relating to a specific function or location in a building should have an accessible sign, for example a fire exit, restroom, or a lift. Signs containing a large amount of information such as menus, patient advice, and detailed operating instructions may be more effective if produced in a braille or large print booklet.
It is hoped that business and organisations take advantage of these guidelines to help improve the accessibility of their environments.
The RNZFB worked with its members, braille professionals, Consumer Organisations and other stakeholders to research and develop the guidelines, which have been endorsed by the Braille Authority of New Zealand Aotearoa Trust, the Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand and the Guide Dog Society (NZ) Inc.
The RNZFB is New Zealand’s main provider of essential sight-loss services, empowering its members with the training, tools, and support they need to deal with blindness and achieve their goals.
RNZFB Braille Awareness Consultant, Lisette Wesseling, says an accessible sign is one that everybody can read and understand, whether they read using sight or touch.
“At least 11,500 New Zealanders are blind or partially sighted and 125,000 people over 40 have significant sight loss that affects their ability to do everyday tasks like reading.
Any sign relating to a specific function or location in a building should have an accessible sign, for example a fire exit, restroom, or a lift. Signs containing a large amount of information such as menus, patient advice, and detailed operating instructions may be more effective if produced in a braille or large print booklet.
It is hoped that business and organisations take advantage of these guidelines to help improve the accessibility of their environments.
The RNZFB worked with its members, braille professionals, Consumer Organisations and other stakeholders to research and develop the guidelines, which have been endorsed by the Braille Authority of New Zealand Aotearoa Trust, the Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand and the Guide Dog Society (NZ) Inc.
The RNZFB is New Zealand’s main provider of essential sight-loss services, empowering its members with the training, tools, and support they need to deal with blindness and achieve their goals.
The Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind
www.rnzfb.org.nz/signage
www.rnzfb.org.nz/signage
