What's the Key? A Website About Locks and Safes

Many business owners are well aware of some of the more common aspects of ADA compliance such as ease of access. However, they might not be aware of lock and hardware requirements. If you are a business owner who is not aware of this latter requirement, your business is not as compliant as it could be. Learn about some of the standard components that must be included in your ADA compliance plan to ensure it's acceptable.

1. Operation

The basic of ADA compliance is accessibility. These guidelines are in place to ensure that people with various disabilities can access any structure with relative ease, and without the need to seek additional assistance from someone else. 

For this reason, whether a person is in a wheelchair or uses an assistive aid like a cane, they should be able to operate the door with one hand. A door that would require you to grip a door handle or lever with one hand and push the door with the other would not be in compliance. 

2. Height

ADA compliance guidelines also set rules in place for any handles that are installed on the door. In addition to being easy to maneuver, the handle must also be easily accessible. For instance, an individual who uses a wheelchair for mobility should be able to reach the door handle just as easily as someone who is standing. 

For your business to be compliant, the door handle on the door must not exceed a certain height. Keep in mind, however, the distance is not calculated from the door, but instead the base of the ground or floor. 

3. Weight

Doors should also be easily supported with one hand. A door that meets all the hardware standards but is especially heavy is not in compliance and must be upgraded. 

To ensure the door meets this standard, there is a specific weight threshold that the door must fall under. Not only does the door's weight need to fall under this level, but the combined weight of all the hardware or other automation features included on the door must also fall below this weight threshold. 

If you need to ensure your business ADA-compliant, it's time to contact a locksmith. Locksmith professionals know the guidelines and can bring your business up to standard. Contact services such as DuPage Security Solutions, Inc. to learn more and have your doors inspected as soon as possible.