Electronic Display Board Mounting

Duke Disability Management System is available to assist with questions and concerns around placement and use of Electronic Display Boards.

• For the physical placement of the board, contact the DAAS Office at DAAS@duke.edu
• For the visual and audio components of the screen, our Director of Assistive Technology and Digital Media, Ashley Lunn at  ashley.lunn@duke.edu or at 919-668-1267.

There are several aspects making an Electronic Display Board or kiosk screen accessible for users with accessibility needs.

These units needed to be mounted within a specific reach range so that users in a wheelchair or those of short stature can access them. The reach range applies to the operable parts or icons on the screen. If the board is interactive, then the operable parts of the screen need to be within a defined reach range (which has a maximum height of 48"). Boards intended as Read Only do not have to meet this standard and can be mounted higher if desired.

It should also be mounted in such a way so as not to protrude into the path of travel and become an obstruction for those who have low vision or other mobility issues. That means it should not protrude further than 4” from the wall to be compliant.

Some units are going to protrude out more than 4 inches and recessing them into the wall is not a viable option. In those cases, providing something either side or underneath that reaches the floor would be a potential solution.

These pictures illustrates some potential solutions for protruding objects.

These units must also meet requirements for usability for those with visual impairment or other impairments such as deafness or sensory challenges.

Another key consideration in installing the electronic boards is the accessibility to them by someone in a wheelchair.  There must be a clear path to the board, clear space for maneuverability at the board with a minimum of a 30" wide by 48" long clear space in front of the board, and depending on the configuration a 5' diameter turn-around area.

Here are some drawings outlining ADA reach range requirements.  Remember that the key is to make sure the usable elements are within the appropriate reach range.  If this is the case, it is acceptable if the entire unit is not completely within reach range.

Here is a drawing showing concerns about protruding objects.

In some cases, electronic units may be intended for use only by employees and not the general public.  For example, room scheduling devices used to reserve rooms for meetings, conferences and similar events.  In these cases, the accessibility rules may not apply since these are not for the public.

However, in some situations, there may be employees at the site who have requested an accommodation.  We recommend consulting with our office when placing units for employee use to ensure that there is a plan in place for any employees who may not be able to access the units.