Why must the ISA be used?
The statutory provisions for accessibility in New Zealand are contained in the Building Act 2004 and the Building Code.
Section 120 of the Building Act states that, 'If any provision required by section 118 [for access for people with disabilities] is made at a building in compliance with that section, a notice or sign that indicates in accordance with the international symbol of access that provision is made for the needs of persons with disabilities must be displayed outside the building or so as to be visible from outside it'.
Clause F8.2 of the Building Code states that, 'Signs shall be provided in and about buildings to identify accessible routes and facilities for people with disabilities'. Details of the ISA sign and its style, proportions and colour contrast are contained in F8/AS1 in the acceptable solution for Building Code clause F8 Signs and in NZS 4121:2001 Design for access and mobility.