Knee Clearance at Counter and Bar
Counter space for business, whether at retail or office level requires adequate room to accommodate counter stools and other items, at least counter height to accommodate long items placed on the bar or counter top, and at least floor length to accommodate waiting customers. This is especially true when the counter space is at a greater height than the counter itself, in which case the height of the counter itself can determine the height of the bar or counter top. It is this concern for height that contributes to the debate as to whether a counter height is sufficient space for a counter and the related concern as to whether a height-limit signage should be placed above or below the counter itself. Height-limit signs should be on the same level as the counter and bar height to maintain clear reading from both counter and bar height and to avoid confusion between the counter and bar height-limit signage.
City Attorney observation, height-limit signs, are usually installed at the front of the counter and/or bar height-limit signs are installed at the same level as the counter and bar height-limit signage. City Attorney review of location, and applicable laws, within the city limits are necessary to determine whether height-limit signs should be located in an appropriate area and under the appropriate conditions. Height-limit signs should not be installed where there is an unreasonable concentration of people, potential customers or potential hazard to others.
To assist in determining the location and condition of counter and bar height-limit signs, it would be useful to take a look at state and local laws that pertain to counter and bar clearance height. As a side note, it might be helpful to have an observer or volunteer to help you with this process during your height-limit sign placement consultation. The purpose of a counter and bar clearance height sign is to distinguish customers from potential hazards, to limit the height of the counter or bar and to limit the amount of foot traffic that could result in a dangerous situation. In essence, a height-limit sign is necessary to create awareness and safety at the point of sale.