Braille and Tactile Signs

Braille and tactile signs use raised lettering, symbols, and Braille dots to help people with vision impairment identify rooms, facilities and exits.

In Australia, the National Construction Code (NCC), including D4D7 and Specification 15, sets requirements for Braille and tactile signage in specified locations within accessible buildings. Relevant accessibility symbols are also addressed by AS 1428.1.

K2K Signs supplies Braille and tactile signage for offices, schools, hospitals, commercial premises and shared residential buildings. Browse our range of accessible toilet, entrance, hearing-loop and exit signs, available in durable 3mm PVC, with free Australia-wide delivery.

What Types of Braille and Tactile Signs Are Available?

Braille and tactile signs identify accessible facilities, provide directional information and communicate important building details through raised text, symbols and Braille.

• Accessible toilet and facility signs: All Gender Toilet Signs and Accessible Unisex Toilet Signs identify sanitary facilities, including left-hand and right-hand transfer arrangements where applicable.

• Accessible entrance and directional signs: Accessible Entrance Signs and Accessible Direction Signs help visitors locate accessible routes and entrances.

• Exit and level identification signs: Exit Ground Signs and Exit Basement Signs provide tactile identification of designated exits and building levels.

• Hearing-loop and parent-room signs: Hearing Loop Signs and Parent Room Signs identify facilities for building occupants and visitors.

Are Braille and Tactile Signs Mandatory in Australia?

Yes, Braille and tactile signs are required at specified locations in buildings covered by the relevant accessibility provisions of the National Construction Code.

Depending on the building and applicable NCC edition, these include accessible sanitary facilities, spaces with hearing augmentation systems and designated exit doors. Particular identification requirements also apply to ambulant accessible sanitary facilities.

Requirements depend on the building classification, location and applicable state or territory regulations. Not every room or door requires a Braille sign.

What Are the Design Requirements for Braille and Tactile Signs?

Under NCC Specification 15, required Braille and tactile signs must meet specifications for raised lettering, Braille, symbols, luminance contrast and surface finish.

Tactile lettering and symbols let people recognise information by touch, while Braille conveys text through raised dots. Clear visual contrast and low-sheen finishes also support readability.

No universal requirement mandates a blue background with white lettering for every Braille sign. The design must satisfy the applicable luminance contrast and identification requirements.

Where Should Braille and Tactile Signs Be Installed?

Position Braille and tactile signs where users can locate and read them, with placement governed by NCC Specification 15 where applicable.

• Mounting height: Braille and tactile components are generally required between 1200mm and 1600mm above the floor.

• Single-line signs: The tactile characters must be positioned between 1250mm and 1350mm above the floor.

• Door identification: For specified room and exit signs, installation is generally on the latch-side wall, with the leading edge 50mm to 300mm from the architrave. Exceptions and alternative placement provisions apply.

Always check the relevant installation requirements for the sign and building before fixing it in place.

How Do You Choose the Right Braille and Tactile Sign?

Choose the sign according to the facility being identified, required wording, accessibility symbols and installation location.

K2K's range includes rigid 3mm PVC signs with moulded tactile details. Individual products specify their dimensions and mounting features, including adhesive backing where provided.

For regulated building applications, verify the sign's design, contrast, dimensions and installation requirements against the applicable NCC edition before ordering.

Buy Braille and Tactile Signs Online in Australia

Browse K2K Signs' range of Braille and tactile signage for accessible facilities, building entrances and exits.

Select the required design and check its specifications before ordering, with free Australia-wide delivery.