Retrofitting or remodeling your business is a good time to ensure that your entryways and locks are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Not only do you have an obligation under the law to ensure access, but your customers will also appreciate it. Here is more information about changes to make so that your business entryways are ADA compliant. Making these changes will help improve access for your employees and customers.
1. Door Widening
If you have an older building, then you may not have enough door width and may need to widen your entryways. Even if you have had no issues with people in wheelchairs accessing your business before, the ADA requirements may have changed since your building was built. Widening your doorway will make things easier not only for people in wheelchairs but also for other mobility devices.
After you widen your doorway, you will likely need a new door. This new door should not require a lot of pressure to open. It should also not close too fast. Look into lightweight but sturdy door materials. You are not required to have an automatic door, though that would be a great convenience to your customers if it is feasible.
2. Door Handle Changes
Make sure you invest in commercial-grade ADA-complaint door handles. Commercial grade handles are durable enough for frequent use. These handles should be shaped in a way that it can be opened with one hand without twisting and turning. Your door handles should also be at a level where they are easily accessible to both people in wheelchairs and those that walk in.
3. Door Lock Accessibility
Keys and access cards are not considered fixed parts of your building, so the law doesn't require much modification for them. However, they can be access barriers in some circumstances. If you require people to use a key or an access card, then make sure that someone in a wheelchair and/or someone who has difficulty using their hands can use them. Also, try setting up a lock system, keypad, or card access that doesn't require two hands or involves excessive twisting.
Making your business ADA compliant doesn't have to be hard. You can still provide accommodation while retaining a stylish and secure storefront. There are several types of locks, handles, and door designs you can choose from. For more information about how you can make your entryway doors and locks more compliant, and to see what types of locks are available, contact an ADA hardware locksmith service like DuPage Security Solutions, Inc.
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