Ensuring Accessibility: How ADA Compliance Enhances Security and Inclusivity for Businesses
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in daily life. Under ADA Title III, businesses classified as “public accommodations” must ensure full and equal accessibility, and this includes making physical locations accessible. For example, entrances, teller counters, and ATMs at banks need to follow the guidelines set out in the ADA.
ADA explains that the law was created to tackle ongoing discrimination against people with disabilities. Congress discovered that people with disabilities had been excluded and isolated in important areas, causing serious social and economic challenges. The ADA seeks to end this discrimination by setting clear rules and making sure the federal government plays a key role in enforcing these protections, ensuring equal opportunities and full inclusion for people with disabilities.
According to AccesiBe, it’s crucial that people with disabilities, making up a quarter of the population, have equal access to services, and one of the ways businesses can comply with the ADA is by making their physical locations accessible. This includes modifications to meet ADA standards, ensuring usability for people with disabilities. Compliance not only avoids legal consequences but also enhances customer experiences and inclusivity, expands customer bases, and puts a high value on corporate social responsibility.
When implementing ADA standards to secure entrances, there are many aspects to consider. For example, the ADA mandates that entrances and exits must be at least three feet wide, overhead items should hang no lower than 80 inches, and entryways should be free of obstructions between 18 and 42 inches on the latch side of the door. If the main entrance can’t meet these standards, an alternate accessible entrance must be provided, clearly marked, and unlocked during business hours. IML specializes in secure entrances for a variety of facilities, but it is important to fully understand the laws and regulations before undertaking any project.
At IML, locksmithing is all about “access”—enabling all customers and users to interact with locks and security systems seamlessly. ADA compliance is crucial, ensuring that doorways, handles, and locking mechanisms are accessible for individuals with disabilities. This includes adequate door clearance for wheelchairs, easy-to-use locks operable with one hand, and precise limits on the force needed to open doors. Mastering ADA standards through certifications and training allows our locksmiths to better serve our clients and their security needs.
As Fit Small Business states “with more than 50 million Americans with disabilities, ADA compliance is important not just from a legal perspective, but a human one.” IML Security is looking forward to being your partner for security needs along with accessibility and ADA compliance!