The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) says that the vast majority of businesses should make reasonable accommodations for a person with disabilities. Small businesses or businesses that don’t offer public services are usually exempt from this requirement, though. Regardless of whether the ADA requires you to have a wheelchair ramp or if you just want to be compliant anyway, it’s easier than you may think to install one. Here’s what you need to know about accessibility standards and why adding a wheelchair ramp to your commercial space is beneficial to everyone.
Be Accommodating For People With Disabilities
A person with disabilities can get nervous when they have to climb stairs to enter a commercial building. A simple wheelchair ramp is all it takes to make them feel more comfortable and secure. Without a wheelchair ramp, your business may seem uninviting to them, and they could even think they aren’t welcome there. This likely isn’t true, but this is the perception of not having a wheelchair ramp outside your establishment.
Minimize The Risk Of An Injury Occurring On Your Property
When you eliminate stairs in favor of a wheelchair ramp, you’ll be minimizing the risk of a potential injury occurring on your property. Even people without a physical disability can easily slip and fall on slippery stairs, which could lead to legal action against your business. You don’t necessarily have to remove all stairs in and around your building, but at least having a wheelchair ramp to the entrance shows you care about the safety of your customers and employees.
You’ll Be ADA-Compliant
Being ADA-compliant is critical to avoid costly fines or potential lawsuits. A wheelchair ramp must be present, and it also must adhere to specific accessibility standards outlined in the ADA. Everything from the slope to the width and even the landing area must be specific. This is why it makes sense to have a professional install your wheelchair ramp so you can have peace of mind knowing it’s installed properly.
Everyone Can Enjoy A Wheelchair Ramp
Some people simply don’t like going up or down stairs and prefer to use a ramp instead, even if they don’t have a physical disability. By having a wheelchair ramp outside your business, you’ll be more welcoming to everyone. People without mobility limitations can enjoy it if they have their hands full and may not be able to see the step below them clearly. Reduce the risk of having someone injure themselves on your property and have a professional install a wheelchair ramp.
Next Day Access is here to help businesses meet the accessibility standards put in place for them. Some businesses need a complete overhaul to meet these standards, but most of them just require minor adjustments or additions. Our experts can evaluate your property and make recommendations to help you become ADA-compliant and make your space as convenient as possible for your guests, customers, and employees. Be sure to contact us to schedule an appointment and be on the right path to providing accessibility around your establishment.
