How to Understand Braille Room Number Signs

Braille is one of the most universally important languages in the world, which is why you’ll find it in almost every business and residential building, including room number signs with braille. Braille is not learned by every blind person in the world, but when it comes to ADA compliant buildings, you need to include it on signs to better help guests and employees navigate with ease.

If you’re looking to understand room number signs with braille a bit more, here’s a brief overview of how braille numbers work and what to look for in an ADA compliant braille room number sign for your business.

Understanding Braille Numbers

Braille is a tactile writing system used by individuals who are blind or visually impaired to read and write. It consists of a grid of raised dots, arranged in cells of two columns and three rows, forming a total of six dots per cell. Each cell represents a specific letter, number, punctuation mark, or other symbols.

When it comes to Braille numbers, they are formed by combining the Braille cells that represent the digits 1 to 9. The number 0 is represented by an empty cell. For example, the Braille representation of the number 123 would be:

⠼⠁⠃⠉

Where ⠼ represents the number sign, ⠁ represents the digit 1, ⠃ represents the digit 2, and ⠉ represents the digit 3.

Tips for Reading Braille Numbers

Reading Braille numbers may seem intimidating at first, but with practice and familiarity, it can become an empowering skill. Here are some tips to help you read Braille numbers with ease:

Start with the Basics: Before attempting to read complex numbers, it's essential to understand the basic Braille cells that represent the digits 1 to 9. Memorize the dots that form each digit and practice recognizing them in different combinations.

Learn the Number Sign: The number sign, represented by the ⠼ Braille cell, is used to indicate that the following cells represent numbers and not letters or other symbols. Familiarize yourself with this sign and recognize it at the beginning of any Braille number.

Master the Contractions: Braille uses contractions to represent common words and phrases, including numbers. The use of these contractions helps to greatly speed up the braille reading process. Learning these contractions can significantly enhance your Braille reading speed and comprehension.

Practice with Real-World Examples: Reading Braille numbers in context can greatly improve your understanding and retention. Look for real-world examples of Braille numbers, such as on signs, labels, and packaging, and practice reading them to sharpen your skills.

Seek Assistance if Needed: If you're new to Braille or facing challenges in reading numbers, don't hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified Braille instructor or a visually impaired individual who is proficient in Braille. They can provide valuable guidance and support in your learning journey.

Understanding ADA Compliance for Braille Room Number Signs

ADA compliance is a critical aspect of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals, including those with visual impairments. When it comes to braille room number sign, it's important to ensure that they meet the guidelines set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The ADA requires that braille signs for room numbers meet specific standards, including:

Size and Spacing: The braille dots must be at least 0.025 inches in diameter and spaced 0.9 inches apart.

Proximity: The braille signs should be placed adjacent to the corresponding room number sign and mounted at a height of 60 inches from the floor to the centerline of the lowest braille cell.

Font: The braille dots should be embossed using contracted braille (Grade 2).

Material: The signs should be made of durable materials that are resistant to wear and tear.

Choosing the Right Braille Sign for Your Business

Now that you understand the importance of ADA compliance for braille room number signs, it's essential to choose the right sign for your location. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Material: Braille signs can be made from various materials, including plastic, metal, and acrylic. Consider the durability, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements of each material when making your choice.

Design: Opt for a design that complements the overall aesthetic of your hotel while also being easy to read and understand. Avoid overly complex or decorative designs that may be difficult for individuals with visual impairments to decipher.

Size: Choose a sign size that is easily visible and legible from a distance. Consider the location of the sign and the viewing distance of your guests when determining the appropriate size.

Customization: Consider customizing the braille signs to include your hotel's logo or branding, which can add a touch of personalization and enhance the overall guest experience.

Once you know what you’re looking for, head to our collection of room number signs with braille. All of our signs are ADA compliant so can safely choose which ones are right for your building based on style and additional information. We also offer further customization, but our collection has a great variety of shapes and colors. 

Installing ADA Compliant Braille Room Number Signs

Once you've chosen the right braille signs for your business or hotel, it's crucial to install them correctly to ensure ADA compliance. Here are some key installation tips to keep in mind:

Height: As per ADA guidelines, mount the Braille signs at a height of 60 inches from the floor to the centerline of the lowest braille cell to ensure accessibility for individuals in wheelchairs.

Location: Install the braille signs adjacent to the corresponding room number sign, ensuring that they are easily reachable and in a prominent location.

Orientation: Install the braille signs in a horizontal orientation, with the dots aligned to the left and the corresponding room number aligned to the right.

If you need any help finding the perfect braille room number signs for you business, our team can help you every step of the way.