A common misconception about showers in truck stops is that at least half of them must be ADA compliant – similar to the standards for toilet rooms. Actually, that’s not true…ALL of them must be compliant!
The reason for the mix-up lies in the “cluster” factor. Section 213.2 of the ADA Standards states…
Bathrooms are common offenders of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design; architects, contractors and facility managers often miss important details. For example, paper towel dispensers have specific height and clearance requirements lined out in the Standards. A dispenser must be proper height from the floor, with an adequate area for the individual to move in order for it to be considered accessible for those that are disabled.
Regulations for accessible parking spots are an important part of the ADA Standards, especially for truckstop and convenience store owners. Because it is easy to identify a noncompliant parking lot, parking has become the number one issue for ADA lawsuits across the country. Facility owners are becoming more knowledgeable in just what kind of accessible parking is required – but many are unfamiliar with more specific rules in the ADA, such as those for accessible parking spots for Class 8 trucks.
The placement of toilet paper dispensers is a small, but essential part in adhering properly to ADA regulations in restrooms. It is important not to overlook the smaller details.
American banks have become easy targets for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) lawsuits, largely due to accessibility issues with Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). Because these machines are easy to spot and quickly check for compliance, any place they are found – truck stops and convenience stores especially – is at-risk for ADA litigation.
Often, ATMs do not meet the requirements for audible instructions and Braille.
Like most standards for accessible design, this standard boils down to one question: How can we ensure that all individuals, including those with limited mobility, can use this facility for its intended purpose?
The Department of Justice considers accessibility of toilet rooms to be third priority in ADA compliance, and a common issue we see in this area relates to the toilet room mirrors.
When it comes to toilet rooms, signage can seem like an obvious and easy last piece of the puzzle, but there are a few simple yet important ADA rules when it comes to these placards.
The two issues facility managers must consider when applying toilet room signage are height and placement.
When reviewing the 2010 ADA Standards regarding accessible toilet rooms the biggest change is the acknowledgement that toilet rooms need to be reconfigured to make it easier for side transfer. This will allow the ability to access the toilet and sink and still maneuver on and off the toilet and in and out of the toilet room with ease.
As we discussed last month, restrooms are a key area to focus on when providing accessible facilities to your patrons. In addition to the requirements for the location of toilets, there are requirements for locations of grab bars. Grab bars that are mounted in the wrong location vertically and horizontally are on the list of the top Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance issues seen in truck stops and travel plazas.
Restrooms are a key area to focus on when providing accessible facilities to your patrons. The requirements listed in the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design are extensive. Today we begin a group of blog posts to help you navigate these restroom requirements.