Did you know that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires most businesses to make “reasonable accommodations” for people with disabilities? If you’re a small business or if your business provides services to the public, you may be exempt from that requirement. However, it can be extremely beneficial for your business to comply anyway. More specifically, it can be very beneficial to add a wheelchair ramp to your commercial space.
It Can Benefit Everyone
Have you ever dreaded going up even the slightest amount of stairs? You aren’t alone. In addition to a commercial ramp being appreciated by people with disabilities, able-bodied people can appreciate the wheelchair ramp as an alternative to stairs. In renting or purchasing one for your business, you will be making your space more easily accessible to all. It’s also a safer way for people carrying large items or making deliveries to access your business as well.
It Accommodates Those with Disabilities
People with disabilities will feel more at ease visiting your business because they have a safe and secure way of getting into the building and maneuvering through it. Having a wheelchair ramp when you aren’t required to is a great way of letting disabled individuals know that they are welcomed at your business. It will also allow you to better accommodate disabled employees, whether their mobility issues are permanent or temporary.
It Helps to Minimize Risk
Stairs can become hazardous if they’re slippery. A slippery staircase or even the slightest misstep of a customer can result in legal problems for your business. More than one million Americans hurt themselves on the stairs every year. You can minimize your risk of injury and potential legal action against you by adding a wheelchair ramp to your commercial space.
It’s Required by Law
If your business doesn’t fit the requirements for exemption, it is mandatory that your commercial space has handicap-accessibility, like a wheelchair ramp. Failing to include one could result in very expensive fines or lawsuits. The ADA requires all commercial wheelchair ramps to: 1. Have a maximum slope of 1:20 2. A minimum of 36 inches wide 3. A landing size of at least 5 feet 4. A level landing at the top and bottom of the ramp 5. Have all edges protected These are just a few of the requirements the ADA has set for commercial wheelchair ramps. Check their website for a full list of requirements.
Looking for a Maryland Commercial Wheelchair Ramp?
If you’re looking to have a wheelchair ramp installed on your commercial property, you need Freedom Mobility. All of our commercial ramps are ADA and IBC compliant, so you don’t have to worry about your business not meeting the minimum standards and requirements. What’s even better is that we can have your semi-permanent ramp installed in no time. Contact us today to get started!