Accessibility is about more than just legal responsibility—it represents a dedication to inclusivity, safety, and sound business practices. At the heart of that is ADA-compliant hardware, ensuring that commercial spaces are easily accessible and welcoming for everyone. From door closers to signage, the appropriate hardware makes a significant difference.
Here are a few of the ADA-compliant hardware items you might want to consider for your business.
- Door Closers and Levers: ADA regulations govern opening force, closing speed, and handle design to ensure that doors can be handled with little effort and without a strong grip or twisting. Additionally, lever handles and properly adjusted closers reduce injuries while improving accessibility for all users, not just those with disabilities.
- Grab Bars: Grab bars are another important feature, especially in restrooms and locker rooms. When installed correctly and designed to ADA standards, grab bars provide stability, reduce slips and falls, and instill confidence in users when navigating potentially dangerous environments. They’re a minor feature that has a significant safety impact.
- Clear Signage: Clear, compliant signage is just as essential. To ensure that people with visual impairments can access information, ADA signage requires font, contrast, tactile letters, and Braille. Effective signage allows visitors to find their way around your space independently, which reduces confusion and improves the overall customer experience.
At its foundation, the goal of ADA-compliant hardware is to create spaces that are accessible to everybody. Ultimately, whether you’re building a new facility or renovating an existing one, using compliant door hardware ensures safety, usefulness, and peace of mind.