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ADA - a heart issue !!!

Guest post by: Deepak Vora

Article Overview: A few weeks ago I attended a series of seminars on ADA sponsored by the San Diego chapter of the American Institute of Architects. ADA stands for The American Disability Act Law implemented in 1990, prohibiting disability discrimination. ADA standards govern the construction and alteration of places such as commercial facilities, state and government facilities and public accommodations. The Department of Justice adopted new standards for accessible design in September 2010 and these will go into effect March 15, 2012.

ADA - a heart issue !!!

A few weeks ago I attended a series of seminars on ADA sponsored by the San Diego chapter of the American Institute of Architects. ADA stands for The American Disability Act Law implemented in 1990, prohibiting disability discrimination. ADA standards govern the construction and alteration of places such as commercial facilities, state and government facilities and public accommodations. The Department of Justice adopted new standards for accessible design in September 2010 and these will go into effect March 15, 2012. Many people in the industry have complained about these regulations. Some argue that these regulations put too much burden on the businesses. They argue that the extra space could be used to generate more income. They say that the space devoted to provide accessible bathrooms, ramps with large landings; clear areas near doors etc. can be used for larger sales area or additional seating to generate more revenues. Like most regulations, people do not like to pay for something where there is no direct benefit. People don't like to pay taxes but have to as its the law. Similarly, designing facilities in compliance with accessibility is required by law. The room full of architects listened keenly to the studies of common ADA violations and legal ramifications, presented by the speakers. Lawrence A. Weinstein of Shared Solution of America talked about “Universal Design ", a design process of embedding choice for everyone in the things we design. Couple of things he talked about resonated with me which I'd like to share. He said “Do not look at ADA as a regulation issue, but as a heart issue". Many of us celebrate Thanksgiving in the comfort of our homes with friends and family. We enjoy the freedom and security because brave people are battling enemies the world over. Many of them return from these wars with some sort of disabilities. Is it asking for too much to have accessible environments for them to be able to shop, travel, dine or just enjoy the outdoors with the same independence that we enjoy? The aging of America is also affecting all aspects of society. The senior citizens show no sign of slowing down. The current population of over 55 plus includes more than 66 million people. As they age, many will welcome environments which provide easy accessibility and maximum mobility. The 55 plus population controls 80% of all the money in US savings and loans institutions and 77% of all privately held assets. According to the US census bureau, 27% of this age group controls 41% of all discretionary income -$181 billion and 40% of all household income -$ 1.17 trillion. Businesses which are reluctant to improve accessibility should pay close attention to these numbers. With the holiday season in full swing and stores packed with merchandise, it is possible that accessibility in some areas of the stores could be compromised. That being the case, it would be to one's benefit to check the following items listed in a DOJ document about maintaining the accessible features in the store. 1. Ensure that boxes, vending machines, display racks etc., do not block the maneuvering clearances required at doors of disability entrances. 2. Arrange seasonal merchandise, baskets of impulse items, and extra clothes racks so they do not block or protrude into the accessibility route through the store. 3. Eliminate billowy long table covers that spill onto the route. These create trip hazards for customers with low vision and shag under patron's crutches, canes, walkers and wheelchair wheels. Marking places accessible is not complicated. All that is required is little bit of Compassion!!

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Article Tags: accessible design, ada standards, american disability act, disability discrimination, public accommodations



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