As a business owner, you have a lot on your plate. That includes ensuring your facility meets ADA guidelines.
Even if you have a historical building, you must meet those requirements or get subjected to a hefty fine. When it comes to meeting those requirements, the following three often get violated the most.
1. Accessible entrances
While some modifications require significant time and money, ensuring your entrances meet the guidelines often does not cost much. At a minimum, you need to ensure you have 36-inch doors. If you own an older building, they may only open 32 inches. Installing a swing door often allows for that added clearance. Along with size, the hardware must provide easy access. Replace any handles that require a tight grasp or knobs with levered options.
2. Reliable curb ramps
Before even entering the building, everyone needs the ability to get to the building. ADA guidelines require businesses to have curb ramps on paths with a height of more than ½ inch. Ramps must provide 36 inches of space between the handrails and have a 30-inch maximum per run.
3. Updated restrooms
An ADA-compliant restroom requires paying attention to toilets, sinks and stalls to ensure access for everyone. As for measurements, the toilet seats must measure 17 to 19 inches tall and get installed 16 to 18 inches from the stall walls. Mount sinks 34 inches from the floor, ensuring a 27-inch knee clearance. To ensure wheelchairs can access a stall, ensure you have 56 inches from the back wall and 60 inches around the sidewall.
While you only need to meet these minimum standards, businesses can go above and beyond.
