It’s important to note that there is a significant difference between “Barrier Removal” and “Renovations.” Barrier removal, as it implies, refers to the removal of barriers that can impede access by individuals with disabilities. Barrier removal is required by the ADA, but is not required by the California Building Code (CBC). As such, barrier removal is currently required to meet the requirements of the 2010 ADA – and not necessarily the more stringent requirements of the CBC. Although if barrier removal is undertaken, we recommend for the sake of efficiency, that modifications comply with current state and federal codes. Please see our previous post on this subject at: http://ashdownarch.com/blog/?p=308
The ADA Technical Assistance Manual, lists 21 examples of modifications that the Department of Justice considers readily achievable.
1. Installing ramps
2. Curb cuts in sidewalks and entrances
3. Repositioning shelves
4. Rearranging tables, chairs, vending machines, display racks and other furniture
5. Repositioning telephones
6. Adding raised marking on elevator control buttons
7. Installing flashing alarm lights
8. Widening doors
9. Installing offset hinges to widen doorways
10. Eliminating a turnstyle or providing an alternate accessible path
11. Installing accessible door hardware
12. Installing grab bars in toilet stalls
13. Rearranging toilet partitions to increase maneuvering space
14. Insulating lavatory pipes under sinks to prevent burns
15. Installing a raised toilet seat
16. Installing a full-length bathroom mirror
17. Repositioning the paper towel dispenser in a bathroom
18. Creating designated accessible parking spaces
19. Installing an accessible paper cup dispenser at an existing inaccessible water fountain
20. Removing high pile, low density carpeting
21. Installing vehicle hand controls
