When we talk about accessibility, other things like toilets and bathrooms come to mind meanwhile bar counters are often overlooked. But for people with disabilities, especially those in wheelchairs, an inaccessible counter can cause serious inconvenience when they are outdoors. That’s why it’s important to ensure that there’s knee clearance under bar counters.
This article goes into details on the meaning of knee clearance, why you need ADA knee clearance in your bar and how to ensure it in bar counters. Continue reading to learn more:
Knee clearance is the open space under a counter or table that allows someone in a wheelchair to approach it and sit comfortably. Without knee clearance, even a properly built counter wouldn’t suffice and will remain inaccessible.
According to the ADA standards, you’ll need:
This space allows wheelchair users enough room to sit comfortably and conveniently at the counter without any sign of discomfort.
ADA bar counter requirements are more than just heights, it’s about ensuring that your customers are comfortable in your bar, especially those with disabilities. A lot of business owners and designers know that accessible counters should be no more than 34 inches high, but that’s not all. If the counter is built with no usable and accessible space underneath, the counter doesn’t meet ADA standards.
According to the ADA, there should be at least one portion of a bar or dining counter that’s accessible with full knee and toe clearance. This ensures that everyone that comes into the bar enjoys the space equally. It also fosters unity, socialising and networking in your bar.
If you don’t comply with the necessary ADA requirements in your bar, you can face legal consequences like lawsuits, fines and be forced to make renovations by court order.
Not only that, non-compliance can affect your business reputation as more customers with disabilities discover that there’s no place for them in you bar. And this can lead to your business closing down because if people can’t comfortably access your space, they’ll go elsewhere.
ADA compliance isn’t just about meeting ADA requirements, it’s about being welcoming to everyone.
Whether you’re building a new space or renovating an existing one, here’s how you can comply with the ADA requirements for knee clearance.
Knee clearance is important for accessibility at bar counters. It’s a sign that your space was designed with all users and customers in mind. By ensuring ADA compliance in your business, you’re creating a space that welcomes everyone regardless of their physical abilities or disabilities.
An accessibility consultant helps ensure ADA compliance by guiding design, construction, and modifications to meet legal standards and support inclusive access.
An ADA tape measure includes markings to check required clearances for accessibility. It helps ensure spaces meet ADA height and reach standards accurately.
