ADA compliance issues are a major concern for businesses with customer access to their facilities. One of the most important changes in ADA standards was the addition of guidelines for smaller restrooms.
For many small businesses, adding one or two accessible restrooms is all they need to create a compliant space. Follow these steps to make sure you’re up-to-date on your compliance needs.
1. Test for Compliance
One of the best ways to know whether your restroom is ADA compliant is to test it. A lot of people think they’re meeting ADA standards because they have an accessible stall. But are these stalls compliant? If you have any doubts, getting a third-party inspector to check your unit should give you peace of mind.
2. Point of Sale Signage
Many small businesses continue to rely on labels and signage regarding ADA compliance. However, it’s important to note that this is not always an accurate way to ensure customers have access. You must also add signage in a clear, accessible location, so customers know where the restroom is located.
3. Storage Areas
ADA guidelines require that accessible storage areas be provided in the same location as restrooms. These areas must be sufficiently large enough to accommodate storage devices like wheelchairs or rolling walkers. If they do not comply with the ADA guidelines, they will not be allowed.
4. Plumbing Feature
ADA standards require that public restrooms have on-demand faucets. But this may not be the only important safety feature included in your unit. So be sure to check and make sure you’re abiding by all ADA standards.
5. Repair and Replacement
ADA standards also require that all public restrooms have an emergency response system. This system must be able to detect the presence of someone with a mobility impairment, alert the building’s security authority, and notify the restroom manager or attendant.
6. Equal Access
ADA guidelines require that everyone use all public restrooms. This means that just because you have compliant features doesn’t necessarily mean all your customers will be able to use them. According to AudioEye, ADA compliance website checker is important to make sure your unit is up-to-date on policies and procedures involving the use of restrooms.
7. All-Gender Restroom
If multiple users share your public restroom, you may want to consider making it an all-gender restroom. This will make everyone who uses your restroom feel comfortable, and it will make it easier for anyone with a mobility impairment to use.
8. Out-of-Order Signs
Restrooms need to be accessible at all times. But what happens when your unit is not in order? To avoid re-labeling your restroom, add an out-of-order sign that highlights the area that needs repair.
9. No Handicap Parking
ADA guidelines require that all public spaces get marked with signs that indicate the presence of accessible parking areas. This way, anyone with a mobility impairment can find out where they can park. To make sure you are following all ADA standards, make sure your parking spaces are visible from both sides of the building.
10. Cafeteria Policy
ADA standards require that cafeterias at educational institutions have clear food preparation areas and tables for people with mobility impairments. If you plan on opening a cafeteria for your customers, be sure to follow these guidelines.
ADA compliance issues are a growing concern for businesses. It’s important to remember that public restrooms are not just for people with mobility impairments. They’re also for the elderly and parents with strollers or children in tow. If you want people to use your facilities, providing accessible accommodations is essential.
