It's Time to Clear the Air Lock!

Let’s Start with Australian Standards:

Air locks are to be used as per AS 1428.1: 2021
Section 5.1 Form of Signs

(a)(iii)"Entry doors to air locks serving areas containing sanitary facilities shall be identified by the use of raised text and braille, together with raised and visual symbols identifying each sanitary facility within."

Note 6: One symbol for each facility need only be used.
Note 7: Where the facilities for male and female are separate, a dividing line should be placed between each symbol.

*Referenced from Standards Australia Limited 2021

What is an Air Lock Sign?

In accessible wayfinding, the Air Lock symbol (represented by a single vertical line ‘|’ on signage) plays a crucial, but often misunderstood, role. It’s not decorative. It’s a functional, spatial cue that helps people of all abilities orient themselves and navigate confidently.

In this post, we explain what an Air Lock is, how to use the symbol correctly, and address some common misconceptions.

So, What is an Air Lock?

In signage, an Air Lock refers to the space before the toilets, not the toilet itself.

An Air Lock is:

• A closed transitional space with no toilets inside
• A room providing access to multiple toilet types (e.g., Male, Female, Accessible, Unisex)
• Sometimes includes basins, dryers, or baby change facilities
• ie: As shown in Diagram 1 B1.18 Male Air Lock & B1.17 Female Air Lock

Entering a door marked with an Air Lock sign means you are entering a shared space, with further doors with signage guiding you to individual facilities beyond.

What Does an Air Lock Look Like on a Floor Plan?

What Signs Would I Use in This Instance?

Common Misconceptions About Air Lock Symbols

As the Braille and Tactile Signage industry grows, so too does the misuse of the Air Lock symbol; seemingly with good intentions, but misinformed design decisions. The result? Signs that can confuse or mislead users, particularly those relying on accurate Tactile and spatial information.

Let’s set the record straight:

❌ “It’s just a visual divider between toilet types.”

Not true. The Air Lock symbol represents a functional space with specific meaning , not a stylistic divider.

❌ “You should include it to balance the layout.”

Incorrect. Air Lock symbols are not design elements. They must only be used when a physical Air Lock room exists.

❌ “If there’s a basin inside, it’s a toilet.”

Not always. If there are no toilets or toilet cubicles, it’s classified as an Air Lock, regardless of whether a basin is present.

Why It Matters

Using the correct signage ensures inclusive, compliant, and functional wayfinding. Getting it wrong can create confusion or discomfort for people with low vision, blindness, or cognitive differences, and anyone relying on clear spatial cues and the accurate use of air lock symbols.

At BTS Aust., we frequently receive requests for Air Lock signs where they’re not required. We’re here to help our clients, specifiers, designers, and builders get it right, the first time.

Why Choose BTS Aust.?

Braille Tactile Signs Aust are Australia’s leading manufacturer and supplier of Gold Standard BTS, setting the benchmark in quality, compliance, and universal design.

Our Statutory Standard Range of Air Lock Braille Tactile Signs includes:
• Durable and hygienic material options
• AS 1428.1 and NCC D3.6 compliance
• Grade 1 Braille and raised Tactile graphics
• A variety of configurations including Unisex, Accessible, All-Gender, Baby Change
• Custom solutions available to meet your unique project needs

Need Support Selecting the Right Signage?

We’re here to help, with expertise, accuracy, and care. Shop our Standard Range Air Lock Signs today.