ADA ATM Compliance
Input Devices on an ATM. The 2010 version of the ADA requires that the keys on an ATM keypad be tactilely discernible. What does this mean? Well the ADA itself spells it out but the language is somewhat confusing. Firstly, if the input keys for the ATM are not touch screen, then the keys must be raised above the surrounding surface areas. With this type of keypad (which is the most common), the number 5 key must be tactilely distinct from the other keys. This requires that the number 5 key have at least a raised dot in the center of the key to distinguish it from the surrounding keys. All function keys on the ATM need to contrast from the surface of the ATM by color. In other words, if the keys are a light color the ATM must be a dark color and vice versa. Moreover, the function key surfaces shall have tactile symbols. These symbols are as follows:
1. Enter Key: raised circle
2. Clear Key: raised left arrow
3. Cancel Key: raised letter X
4. Add Value Key: raised plus sign
5. Decrease Value Key: raised minus sign
In addition to these requirements, the ADA requires that the display screeen on all ATMs be visible from a point located 40 inches above the center of the cler floor space in front of the ATM. The font on the screen shall be sans serif and be 3/16 of an inch in height and contrast from the background screen color. Finally, the ADA requires that all ATMs have braille instructions for initiating speech mode.
As with all of the blogs on this website, I recommend consultation with a lawyer regarding the mandates of ADA 2010. These blogs are represent only our company’s intrepretation of the law and should not be exclusively relied on my any company to meet the requirements of the ADA.