ADA
The ADA requires that new construction and alterations to existing
facilities comply with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design.
ADA requirements for new construction and alterations include
detailed provisions for elements, spaces, and facilities. Successful
accessibility is often measured in inches, so attention to detail
can make the difference between achieving access and excluding
or injuring someone.
When the ADA's minimum requirements are not
met, the results can limit or exclude a person with a disability
and can be dangerous. For example, when a curb ramp extends into
an access aisle at an accessible parking space, a person using
a wheelchair may not be able to get out of the car or van. When
the slope of a sidewalk that is an accessible route becomes steeper
than 1 to 20, railings and edge protection are required for safe
use. Objects that project into circulation spaces from the
side, or that do not provide at least 80 inches of head clearance,
can be extremely hazardous to people who are blind or who have
low vision.
This document lists a sampling of common accessibility
errors or omissions that have been identified through the Department
of Justice's ongoing enforcement efforts. The specific requirement
of the Standards that has not been met follows each error/omission.
The list of errors/omissions provides examples of common deficiencies.
It is not intended to be comprehensive or exhaustive. Any failure
to comply with the Standards violates the ADA.
For additional
information about the design and construction requirements of
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), contact the Department
of Justice ADA Information Line. This free service provides answers
to general and technical questions about ADA requirements and
is a source for free ADA materials including the ADA Standards
for Accessible Design. You may reach the ADA Information Line
at: 800-514-0301 (voice) or 800-514-0383 (TDD).
ADA information
is also available on the Department's ADA Home Page on the World
Wide Web: www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm
