ADA Standards
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was created to ensure access to buildings and structures for people with disabilities. The ADA standards are issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Transportation (DOT). DOJ's standards apply to all facilities covered by the ADA, outside of public transportation facility which are part of the DOT's standards. Below is the first three chapters of the ADA standards, check back as more chapters will be added.
ADAAG
The United States Access Board develops and updates the design guidelines known as the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG). The ADAAG were originally published in 1991 and updated in 2004 to be the final rule in ADA standards. They were most recently updated in 2014. These standards are continuously reviewed and updated so it is important to make sure you are following the most up to date information. Always review the official ADAAG before implementing ADA standards.
ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG)
Chapter 1 : Using the ADA Standards
Review the use of ADA standards to determine whether you are required to follow the ADA standards. There are exemptions and requirements for different facilities, so be sure to check who is required to follow the standards. State, county and local governments are subject to ADA standards. Federal facilities are not covered by the ADA, but rather by an earlier law, the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), this is very similar to ADA but separate.
Chapter 2: Scoping Requirements
Chapter 2 of the Guide to ADA Standards apply to various types of facilities subject to the ADA. Users of this guide should become familiar to the requirements for their specific site. Review chapter 2 for signage requirements, entrances, exits, fire extinguisher cabinets and operable parts and many other general elements both interior and exterior throughout facilities and sites.
Chapter 3 : Building Blocks
Chapter 3 focuses on the execution of ADA standards. These guidelines help when designing a restroom, installing a hand dryer, paper towel dispenser and toilet partitions. The article on protruding objects is especially important to read regarding the ADA standards on fire extinguisher cabinets and ADA accessible restrooms.
Baby Changing Stations
Below is a diagram from Diaper Depot about mounting baby changing stations.
Baby Changing Stations must follow several different rules in order to meet ADA standards. Koala Kare baby changing stations meet ADA regulations when installed properly.
- 4.2.6 Side Reach
- 4.4.1 Protruding Objects
- Forward Reach
- Operation
- Braille Instructions
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