The 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design are revisions of Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. They were published in September, 2010 and took effect on March 15, 2011. Most people associate the ADA with far-reaching improvements like accessible walkways, doorways and curbs but they cover so much more. Here are a few revisions that cover areas you may not automatically associate with accessible design:

• Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) and Fare Machines – You may already know, or have guessed, that banks are required to provide accessible ATMs, including those with speech capabilities and within wheelchair reach but did you know it is also required that accessible ATMs give users the same functions as the non-accessible ones? This means that if the non accessible ATMs offer an extra service, like ticket purchasing, the accessible ones must as well.
• In Restaurants and Cafeterias - Not only are the food service lines and dining areas required to be accessible, but so too are the Tableware and Condiment Areas! These places where you self-serve silverware, dishware, toppings, food and beverages must comply with space allowances and reach ranges.
• In Transient Lodging - Hotels, motels, dormitories, resorts and the like must not only provide accessible rooms, they must also provide accessible sleeping accommodations across the various classes available. This means, if the facility offers basic, deluxe and premium rooms for example, they cannot just have accessible rooms in the basic category.

It is important to be familiar with these lesser know aspects of ADA standards for accessible design because those subject to the Act must comply with all points, not just some or a few.

Access Advocates is team of caring professionals – architects, engineers, and technicians — who specialize in Federal ADA Compliance Issues. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you improve accessibility in your community.