Summary
The Access Board's plain-language guide to the sign rules in the 2010 ADA Standards, including the sign that tells patrons an assistive listening system is available.
Key findings
- Explains that sections 216.10 and 703.7.2.4 require signs with the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss, meeting the visual criteria for signs, to show that assistive listening systems are available in assembly areas, and that the signs can be placed at each assembly area or at each ticket office or window.
- States that the wording on these signs is not specified, and adds that "it is helpful to indicate where assistive listening devices can be acquired".
- Names the hearing-loss symbol, the International Symbol of Accessibility and the International Symbol of TTY as the three symbols the Standards require in certain places, each with a non-glare finish and contrast with its background (703.7.1).
- Uses one symbol for every kind of assistive listening system; the guide says nothing about telecoil, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi signs, QR codes or online information.
- Notes that variable message signs and remote infrared audible sign systems are not addressed by the ADA Standards but are covered by the ICC A117.1 standard.
Limits
Technical assistance that explains the Standards and adds no requirements. The page carries the date August 2022, which may be its last revision rather than its first publication.
Read the original
www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-7-signs
Cited in
- How do listeners learn that a venue has assistive listening, and which signs and symbols do the rules ask for?Partly answered
Cite this source
US Access Board. Guide to the ADA Accessibility Standards, Chapter 7: Signs. US Access Board (access-board.gov). August 2022. https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-7-signs/ (accessed 9 October 2026).
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