Modern hotel owners are under increased pressure to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and noncompliant bathrooms are often the cause of complaints.
While you never want to disadvantage guests, ADA guidelines are extensive – it is easy to overlook something. Here are some essential bathroom elements required by ADA.
Fixed shower seats
A certain number of hotel rooms require compliant bathrooms, including an attached fold-down shower seat. Some hotel owners believe a portable shower seat will suffice, but that is not so.
To prevent safety accidents and instability, the seat must be attached securely to the wall for compliance.
Proper water controls
Another frequent complaint is the improper placement of water controls and handheld showerheads in roll-in showers. Per ADA standards, these controls must be within reach of the shower seat.
Many hotels place them on the opposite wall, making them inaccessible to most wheelchair users.
Safety grab bars
Grab bars facilitate safety and mobility, but incorrect placement is a frequent ADA violation. The standards specify that grab bars must be installed on the back and side walls of the shower and near the toilet.
Some hotels omit grab bars altogether or place them in locations that do not provide sufficient support.
Properly-placed fixtures
Often, the height of bathroom fixtures such as sinks, mirrors and towel racks can be problematic. ADA standards require these fixtures to be at accessible heights for wheelchair users.
Unfortunately, many hotels misjudge the necessary height, placing them too high and out of reach.
The ADA is dense reading, but it contains the details that you must not overlook to remain compliant. A legal representative can help you understand the ADA and represent you if someone sues your hotel.