Designing an ADA-Compliant Trade Show Booth

Does Your Trade Show Booth Meet ADA Standards?

When putting together a trade show booth, you must consider many factors — and ADA requirements are one of them. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), an exhibit booth must provide equal access for those with impaired physical, visual and hearing abilities.

Are you unsure of how to meet these requirements? Monster Displays has put together 10 tips for designing a trade show booth that is ADA-compliant. Not only will you create a welcoming, inviting environment for all, but you will be able to promote your brand to a wider audience.

Signage

Use clear, large-font signage that is easy to read and placed at an accessible height. Include Braille if possible.

Accessible Entry and Exit

Ensure there is a clear, wide entry and/or exit point (at least 32 inches wide) to accommodate wheelchairs, scooters and other mobility devices.

Double-Deck Structures

If you have a multi-level booth, then you either need to have the same features on each level or an elevator to travel between the levels.

Height of Exhibit Elements

Any interactive booth elements — screens, tablets, prize wheels, etc. — must be between 15 and 48 inches above the floor so everyone can reach them.

Handrails

You need to install handrails on each side of any ramps or stairs so people can stabilize themselves. The handrails should be 34-38 inches above the walking surface or stair edge.

Raised Floors

If the floor of your booth is raised, you need at least one transition ramp. The ramp must be one foot long for every inch high the floor is. For example, a four-inch raised floor requires a four-foot-long ramp. The ramp also needs to be a minimum of three feet wide to fit mobility devices.

Aisles

When possible, aisles should be at least three feet wide. You also need to have a three-foot-square area in each corner for making 90-degree turns. If the booth space is too small to accommodate these specifications, a staff member must be on hand who can assist visitors.

Booth Carpeting

If your booth has carpeting or carpet tiles, you must secure them to the floor so there is no slipping or bunching. The pile can be no more than a half-inch thick so wheels and crutches don’t sink in.

Tables and Counters

Are you adding tables and/or counters to your exhibit? At least one should have a surface 30 inches off the ground so people with mobility devices can reach it comfortably.

In-Booth Theaters

For viewing and presentation areas, each end of the front row should have a space without seats where mobility devices can go. You should also reserve part of the front row for the visually impaired. Add closed captioning to any video, and if you are doing a live presentation, provide a printed transcript afterward.

Design an ADA-Compliant Booth

If you need further assistance putting together a trade show booth that meets or exceeds ADA standards, contact Monster Displays. We can help design and custom-build a booth that does everything you need it to and allows access to all.