It has been almost 25 years since Congress enacted the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). While the legislation has clearly made a positive difference in the lives of people with disabilities, many others have benefited from it as well.
People who remember a time before the law might readily recognize the differences between then and now, but even those born after 1990 can see the value added to their everyday activities. Anyone who has ever ridden a bicycle, pushed a stroller, hauled luggage on wheels, tried to open a door with both arms full, or moved heavy items using a dolly can thank the ADA for making that experience easier, especially in structures that were around before the law came to pass.
Here are just a few of the ways ADA accessibility benefits society as a whole, particularly when it comes to existing facilities:
- Route of travel – A location should have a firm, stable route of travel that does not require stairs and is at least 36 inches wide, among other requirements.
- Curb cuts – Drop offs, drives and parking must have them.
- Ramps – They should be non-slip, have slopes with a ratio of less than 1:12, have sturdy railings if longer than 6 feet, and have a 5 foot long level landing every 30 feet. They should also be at least 36 inches wide between railings and rise no more than 30 inches between landings.
- Entrances – Doors should be at least 32 inches wide with at least an 18 inch clearance on the pull side. Thresholds should be less than ¼ inch high (3/4 inch if beveled), carpets should be less than ½ inch high. Door handles should be lower than 48 inches, and they should be able to be operated with a closed hand.
To find out more about how we make a difference when it comes to ADA building compliance, please contact us.