What You Need to Know About ADA Railing Systems

If you’re a business owner or the manager of a public space, you’re probably familiar with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This legislation requires every business to have safety equipment in place to make their space accessible to those with physical disabilities. If you want to make sure that your space is ADA compliant, you may need to explore ADA railing systems.

What You Need to Know About ADA Railing Systems

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990 to ensure that every American has equal access to the things they need to live their everyday lives. The ADA is legislation that provides simple guidance on how to make sure the services you offer are accessible to everyone, regardless of mental or physical disability. One area that the ADA covers in great detail is safety equipment, including railing systems. 

What Does the ADA Say About Railings?

Railings in public spaces need to meet certain standards in order to be functional for those with physical disabilities. It’s important for you to know what needs to be in place for your handrails to meet ADA standards: 

• A handrail must be between 34 and 38 inches from the ground. The posts holding it up can be no further than eight feet apart. 
• There must be at least one-and-a-half inches of space between the handrail and other objects. There should be no obstructions that would make the handrail uncomfortable to continuously use.
• Handrails should be continuous throughout the space they are needed in.
• A “D-return,” or an ending with a handle or bracing point, must be present on an ADA-compliant handrail.
• The handrail must be securely fastened and should not rotate within the equipment that fits it to the wall or other structure.
• ADA-compliant handrails are required on ramps, curbs, stairs, and any area where your floor has a slope of five degrees or more.
• Posts and handrails must be at least one-and-a-half inches in diameter.

These are the general guidelines, but there are much more specific ones available for your review in the ADA. You can also talk to a contractor or other compliance specialist if you have specific questions about how your business can become more accessible to those with physical disabilities.

How Can I Comply?

You know it’s smart to create a space that is friendly and accessible to every visitor. You know the ADA is important, and that it serves a valuable purpose. However, you may not know how to install a railing system that meets all ADA requirements for your business. If you know it’s important to get this right, but you don’t have the expertise you need in-house, what can you do? The good news is that ADA railing systems do the work for you. These are railing systems created specifically to meet ADA requirements, requiring no additional work from you.

Where Can I Get an ADA Railing System?

If you’re seeking an ADA-compliant railing system for your home or business, your first stop should be a reputable retailer with ADA compliance experience. At Aluminum Handrail Direct, our railing experts sell ADA-compliant systems as well as full sets of railing and hardware. You will be able to purchase what you need with the confidence that you are following ADA guidance. There is also a wide range of features and customizable options that will ensure your ADA railing fits right in with the look and feel of your business. You can order with confidence, but if you have any questions, our customer service team is standing by to help you. Check out our selection today!

_____

ADA railing systems do the heavy lifting of ADA compliance for you. They provide an easy way to make sure everyone feels welcome in the space you manage. If you’re ready to invest in an ADA railing system, why not give us a call?

At Aluminum Handrail Direct, we are committed to providing high-quality aluminum handrails that are durable, maintenance-free, affordable, and attractive. If you have questions about aluminum handrails or if you are searching for a handrail system that fits your needs, call us at 417-409-3179 or 888-518-9890 (toll-free) or visit Aluminum Handrail Direct’s online store today. We offer handrails, wall mounts, mounting screws and anchors, touch-up spray paint, and much more. We look forward to hearing from you!