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First put into law in 1991, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, is a broadly reaching set of regulations that endeavors to equally integrate people with disabilities in both social and economic spheres. In addition, the act calls for the removal of physical barriers, demanding that businesses and workplaces meet ADA compliance guidelines. Though regulations for new business construction have since been set in place, ADA compliance in the private sector for existing establishments was initially met with skepticism due to the fear of potential costly renovations. Any business that is considered to serve the public, including stores, restaurants, theaters, and doctors' offices are expected to provide easy access for all, particularly for wheelchair-bound employees or patrons. Though penalties, usually resulting from lawsuits, can be severe, ADA compliance may qualify a business for tax breaks or deductions. However, owners and managers attempting to bring their buildings up to code do have some flexibility. Depending upon the size and resources of a particular establishment, this can be achieved over time and in an affordable manner according to ADA guidelines. The most important aspect of ADA compliance is the ability to gain access to a building from the street or sidewalk. Following that are clearly marked handicapped parking spaces and sizable bathrooms equipped with handrails. Narrow entrances or aisles are considered barriers, along with fixed tables in restaurants and doorknobs that are difficult to grip. For any business, at least one entrance needs to be wheelchair accessible and visibly marked. Shallow ramps are preferable, but if not readily achievable, steeper ones can be utilized along with a sturdy handrail. If neither option is feasible, delivery or curbside service may be offered instead. Along with entranceways, all doors used by patrons and employees should be at least 36 inches wide. This may entail enlarging existing doorways or installing "clear swing" hinges. Standard doorknobs should also be replaced with loop or lever handles. Establishments with parking lots of 25 or fewer spaces are required to have at least one handicapped lane closest to the entrance. Above that, at least two are necessary. Signage in front of the space or spaces should be positioned high enough so as not to be blocked. For supermarkets or department stores, aisles, like doorways, need to have at least a 36-inch clearance. For high-shelved products, customer service should be readily available. Restaurants or food service areas are expected to have at least five percent of seating accessible, with moveable chairs around tables of 24 inches in height. Places that offer counter service should employ counters that are no higher than 34 inches. Companies whose revenue is under a million dollars a year that have 30 employees or fewer may receive a tax credit of up to $10,250 or a deduction as high as $15,000 for updating their business to ADA standards. According to some studies, whether ADA compliance has made a sizable impact in creating equality for the disabled is yet undetermined. Either way, as it is the law, it may prove at least to be a step in the right direction. When businesses need help with ADA compliance, they visit OMG Diversified "Door & Lock" Services. To learn more, visit http://www.omgdoor.com/home.
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