If you own a business, you know that federal, state and local laws can all impact how your company operates. Due to concerns ranging from safety to transparency, lawmakers often have a vested interest in how companies do business. You need to pay close attention to your legal obligations in this regard. Otherwise, the company that you have devoted so much energy to could be negatively impacted by your oversights.
Take, for example, your company’s restrooms. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public facilities, including company restrooms, be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Failure to comply with this legal mandate can result in legal consequences, in addition to public relations fallout, dips in worker morale and a host of other challenges.
What is expected of your business?
The ADA lays out specific guidelines for restroom accessibility to better ensure that individuals with disabilities can use these facilities safely and comfortably.
ADA compliance begins with pathways to company bathrooms. Restrooms must be accessible via an ADA-compliant route. This means the path leading to the restroom should be free of obstructions, have appropriate signage and be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs (at least 36 inches wide).
Access to bathrooms is also a significant concern. Restroom doors must be able to achieve a specific, minimum opening width when the door is open 90 degrees. Mechanisms used to open, shut and lock doors should not require extensive wrist function. The force required to open doors should not exceed five pounds.
Additionally, at least one stall in each restroom must be ADA-compliant. ADA stalls should be at least 60 inches wide and provide a depth of 56 inches (wall-mounted toilet) or 59 inches (floor-mounted toilet). The stall should have grab bars on the side and back walls, and the toilet should be positioned between 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the top of the seat.
Sinks should be installed with a minimum, specific clear floor space in front. Their height, width and depth are also specifically regulated. Faucets must be operable with one hand without requiring tight grasping, pinching or twisting.
Similarly, restroom accessories like paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers and hand dryers must be accessible and adhere to highly specific measurements. Finally, ADA-compliant signage is crucial for identifying accessible restrooms.
The ADA is undeniably detailed. Should you have any concerns about what it says, how to meet its requirements or what to do if you’ve been accused of violating this law, know that seeking personalized guidance is always an option.