Accessibility is something that every business owner should strive to provide for their customers, which means leaving nobody behind. Whether it’s in terms of the structure, programs, services, no one should be excluded.

When it comes to the location, persons with disabilities should always be considered. If you want to learn a little bit more about ADA accessibility compliance when you open your doors to PWDS, continue reading. 

Buildings Subject to ADA Compliance

ADA, short for the Americans with Disabilities Act, has outlined several buyers  requirements and specifications that businesses need to comply with in order to put their spaces within reach of persons with disabilities, handicaps, injuries, and more.

Every building constructed after the Act and under a public agency, private business, or even state or local government is subject to accommodate PWDs. There are different accessibility standards to take note of, with some focusing on certain rooms, such as the bathroom and kitchen. For now, let’s focus on the doors and entrances.

Doors Subject to ADA Compliance

Although it might seem pretty straightforward, there are many types of doors that have to follow the ADA requirements for public accommodation. Some may have too small doorways, while others may have entry points that are too hidden away. It’s important that these are rectified.

During construction, main public entrances and other entry points for a building should follow the specifications of ADA accessibility for PWDs. Doors for any separate interior rooms should also be accessible, alongside any emergency exits that will be used in case of fire or any other crisis that would require people, including PWD, to evacuate quickly.

Specifications for ADA Accessibility

Getting different inspection tools and running a site survey can give you insight into any potential adjustments that will improve the overall accessibility of the place. Here are the general guidelines that your business should adhere to:

• Door Measurements. Doorways that are considered accessible are at least 80 inches tall. As for the width, it’s ideal to have a door that’s at least 32 inches to accommodate transportation devices used by a PWD. 
• Door Surface. Since there are PWDs that will use a wheelchair or cane when entering a building, it’s important that the surface is adequate. A smooth surface with a kick plate is the most ideal.
• Doorstep Threshold. ADA accessibility recommends that the threshold of a doorstep should be at a minimal height for ease. It’s best if the doorstep is sloped to ease in any wheelchair.
• Doorway Space. In case a PWD will need to turn around and maneuver themselves out, doorways must have ample space for them to do so. Aside from a big door space, it’s ideal that the doors are able to swing in and out. 
• Door Visibility. Doors with poor visibility don’t pass the ADA standard. The entryway should be properly lit for visibility, either with natural light or artificial lighting. 
• Door Opening and Closing. PWDs should be able to open and close the door without any trouble, which means they have to be light and easy to grab with just one hand.

Conclusion

The entrance is one of the most important parts of the building that has to be made accessible to PWDs, since it is the very first step that they will take to get in. It’s better for businesses to be inclusive and to welcome everyone no matter what. 

Want to check your ADA compliance? All Things Inspector offers inspection tools and survey equipment that can be used to oversee your business’s proper ADA compliance. Order today!