detectable warning device

Detectable warning surfaces act as a stop sign for visually impaired perdestrians at intersections and other busy pedestrian foot traffic areas. There are different types and colors of these warning surfaces one can encounter in their city.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) does not specify a specific color when using tactile warning surfaces, although the most commonly used color is yellow. The only stipulation is that it must be of a contrasting color compared to the surrounding surface. For instance, if the sidewalk is your normal cement gray, then any color—blue, red, black, and so on—could be used except for gray and possibly white if the cement is a light color.

Raised domes are easily detectable with  a cane both in feel and sound or by the change in the surface as felt under foot. The contrasting color of the surface further helps people who have poor vision. They are often able to distinguish between changes in colors, even though they may not be able to see clearly.

Types of Detectable Warning Surfaces

The type and placement of the tactile warning surfaces do mean different things for the visually impaired as follows:

  • Truncated domes—the round raised circles—indicate that a visually impaired person is entering an area where there is a crossing. The crossing could be a busy intersection, bike path, jogging trail, or another heavy foot traffic area. The domes mean the person should stop before proceeding, to determine whether it is safe to cross.
  • The use of way finding tactile surfaces with elongated raised lines and ridges in between are starting to be used in various cities to create safe visually impaired walking lanes. The ridges make it easy for a visually impaired person with a cane to “feel” the ground and know they are walking in a safe area.
  • Photoluminescent warning surfaces with illuminated dots are also becoming more common in various cities. The use of these types of tiles help all people because in low light conditions they illuminate  and provide a pathway to safety in the event of a power failure.

glow dome photoluminescent systems

Places Where Detectable Warning Surfaces Should Be Used

The ADA has specific guidelines about the placement, size, and type of ADA detectable warning surfaces used in public areas. In 2010, the ADA relaxed its location requirements, but this does not mean businesses and communities cannot still be proactive in creating safe walking areas for visually impaired people. As of 2010, the warning surfaces are only required on the edges of transit platforms and wheelchair ramps in the public rights-of-way like intersections.

The previous requirements also required warning surfaces around the edges of reflecting pools and in front of doors leading to hazardous vehicular areas like parking lots. This is why you might notice tactile warning surfaces still being installed in these locations.

For municipalities and businesses which are not sure whether they should install tactile warning surfaces, it is highly recommended to speak to a supplier of detectable warning surfaces like those of us at ADA Solutions. We can help you determine what would be best for your city or business, as well as for the visually impaired people who deserve safer walking areas.

For further information, to request a free sample, or to learn more about our tactile warning surface products, please feel free to call us at (800) 372-0519 today!

Sign Showing Direction to Ramp Access for the Diasbled

As a business owner, you have a few goals in mind that guide the general operation of your business on a day-to-day level. For starters, of course, you want to make money. That’s the whole point of being in business in the first place, and you aren’t going to keep the doors open if you aren’t profitable. In addition to profitability, you want to serve your customers well, act in an ethical manner, be a positive influence in your community, and more.

One good way to serve all of those various goals is to make sure you are ADA-compliant. This is important because it can help you serve all possible customers, it can keep you out of legal trouble, and it is simply the right thing to do. If you have been confused in the past regarding what you need to do to conform to ADA rules, this post should point you in the right direction.

What Is the Americans with Disabilities Act?

Let’s back up for a moment and take a closer look at what the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is, and why it is so important. Dating back to 1990, this federal act made it unlawful to discriminate against individuals who have disabilities. ADA rules apply not only to public property like sidewalks but also to places that are open to the general public. So, for most business owners, ADA-compliance is something that needs to be taken very seriously.

We should note that while this article is focused on the accessibility and safety of spaces open to the public, the Americans with Disabilities Act covers many more areas of life for disabled persons. For instance, employment opportunities are included in the act, as well as telecommunications provisions and other important measures.

Why Does This Matter to You?

Disabled Athlete in Wheelchair at Sunset

From a big-picture perspective, ADA-compliance should matter to you as a business owner because making your business accessible to as many people as possible is the right thing to do. Beyond doing the right thing, it’s also important because of the potential legal and financial ramifications.

As you have built your business, you have probably worked hard to attract as many customers as possible. If you were to fail to handle your ADA obligations properly, you would not only be running the risk of ADA-noncompliance, but you’d also be missing out on a significant amount of potential business.

There are millions of disabled individuals in the United States, with those disabilities ranging from moderate to severe. Some estimates indicate that roughly 20% of American citizens have a disability of some kind, which brings the total beyond 20 million individuals. As a business owner, it’s easy to see how much of the market you could be missing if you fail to follow ADA rules.

One other important point to consider: potential lawsuits. You have almost certainly taken steps to protect your business from liability in other areas, so it would be a mistake to open yourself up on this front. If a disabled person were to be injured on your property in an accident that could have been avoided by complying with ADA regulations, the resulting lawsuit could be extremely damaging.

Getting Started

It is true that ADA-compliance can be a bit intimidating when you first get started. There is a lot to know, and it can be particularly confusing if you are trying to bring an old property or building up to date with current specifications. While we can’t outline all of the ADA rules here, we can touch on a few of the important points.

  • A goal of reasonable accommodation. The precise requirements under the law for what your business must provide is going to vary from one situation to the next. This is why the concept of “reasonable accommodation” is important. If you have taken steps to accommodate disabled individuals in a way that is reasonable for the size and scope of your business, you’ll be on the right track.
  • Parking and access. Two simple steps, and two steps that you may have already taken, are to have handicap parking spaces available and to provide wheelchair ramp access to the entrance to your building.
  • Sufficient space to move. An individual using a wheelchair should be able to move comfortably through your space without any trouble. Significant lips on floor surfaces can be a problem for wheelchairs, as well as narrow aisles or heavy doors.
  • Bathroom considerations. Another key compliance point is to ensure the bathrooms that you offer are suitable for disabled individuals. Including a bathroom stall large enough for a wheelchair—and the appropriate signs—will help make your building more accessible.

Of course, the list above is only a starting point for how your business can serve people with disabilities. To make sure you are doing the right things to both serve customers and stay away from legal issues, it may be worth working with a professional ADA-compliance consultant who can evaluate your property and offer specific advice.

Warning Surfaces Play an Important Role

Handicap Parking Spot

Using warning surfaces to help keep disabled individuals safe is a simple and important step to take in this process. The best example of how these products can be used is seen on sidewalks throughout the country.

When you come to a road crossing, for instance, a detectable ADA warning surface may be seen where the curb slopes down to meet the roadway. This surface is not only slip-resistant, but it also includes a collection of bumps and other textures to make sure a disabled individual knows that they are approaching a road. To make the product even more effective, it is finished in a bright color that is sure to attract attention.

Get Started Right Away

This is the kind of thing that is easy to put off as a busy business owner. You have a lot on your plate, so you may feel like ADA-compliance is something you can put on the back burner. Even if you have the best of intentions, this is a bad idea. You never know when an issue may arise, so get started right away and take the necessary steps to comply with all relevant regulations for your situation.

In the end, it’s likely that you’ll find the process to be much quicker and easier—and more affordable—than you imagined. You’ll rest easy knowing you are following the rules and accommodating as many people as possible.

Working with the Right Supplier

One of the best things you can do while working toward ADA-compliance is to team up with a reputable supplier who can provide your company with the products necessary to complete this job. At ADA Solutions, our detectable warning surfaces are respected throughout the industry for their quality and consistency. When you order from us, you can be sure the product you receive will be ready to stand the test of time. To learn more, please feel free to contact us right away. We are excited to serve you!

man in wheelchair in front of a shopping store

People with disabilities struggle with physical barriers to access on a daily basis, and the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA protects the rights of these individuals to have safe access to public spaces. The consequences of an ADA  violation to businesses who do not provide accommodations as the law requires can be severe.

Understanding these consequences will help you avoid ADA penalties for noncompliance and protect your business reputation while providing the safe and easy access your customers and visitors deserve.

The Consequences of Not Complying with ADA Rules

There are at least three areas where failure to comply with ADA laws may cause serious financial and PR problems for your business or organization. It is worth noting that in some states, groups and individuals actively look for businesses to report for noncompliance.

Consider these areas of concern:

ADA Fines for Noncompliance

Federal law allows fines of up to $75,000 for the first violation and $150,000 for additional ADA violations. States and local governments may allow additional fines and require businesses to meet a higher standard of accessibility than the ADA requires. With these direct penalties looming, it makes sense to invest in ADA-approved surfaces and access requirements.

Lawsuits Involving People with Disabilities

Government agencies, municipalities, health care facilities, and small businesses that do not provide adequate “public accommodation” leave themselves open to lawsuits, personal injury claims, and legal or civil penalties should a disabled visitor be injured in a noncompliant space.

Damage to Your Business Reputation

Perhaps the most financially damaging consequence of not complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act is the damage to the image of your business or brand when it becomes public record that there was a serious violation under ADA laws. Providing safe access and empowered employment to disabled persons shows that the ethics of your business are of the highest level.

Is Your Business Required to Follow ADA Requirements?

Disabled Father play with his little son and daughter

It is important to determine if your business needs meet these requirements before you find yourself in noncompliance with ADA rules. By definition, there is an “affirmative duty” to restaurant and business owners to take the initiative and be in compliance.

Some of the types of places which fall clearly under the guidelines include:

  • Dining places, restaurants, and cafes
  • Markets, stores, and malls
  • Sidewalks, parks, and public restrooms
  • Office buildings and places of employment
  • Movie theaters and recreational facilities
  • Stadiums and sports fields

How Can Your Business Achieve ADA Compliance?

Your business can have an inspection performed by a private company to point out possible problems before they become costly ADA violations. If your entryways, sidewalks, or public spaces need updates to meet the new ADA rules, contact us at ADA solutions. Don’t wait to feel the sting of an expensive fine or lawsuit. We have a wide range of surface applied and cast-in-place solutions which meet all ADA requirements.

White Cane Feeling for Detectable Warning Surface

One of the greatest impacts of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been making public spaces more accessible to all people, regardless of physical ability.

Title III of the ADA requires “spaces of public accommodation” to be accessible and navigable for people with physical disabilities.

One way to make public and private spaces more accessible is with detectable warning surfaces. These surfaces—most often tiles made of plastics, porcelain, steel, or cast iron—alert people with disabilities of potential danger from a roadway, and they aid with navigation. They’re designed to be easily seen or felt through the soles of most shoes or noticed by a visually impaired person using a white cane for guidance.

The ADA requires detectable warning tiles at all intersections where a sidewalk enters or leaves a motorway—for example, where the sidewalk in front of a retail or grocery store meets the parking lot. The tiles are also required at the edges of boarding platforms for trains and subways.

Originally developed to help the visually impaired to safely navigate streets and public venues, detectable warning tiles are now required in every municipality.

There are different types of warning tiles and surfaces, which we explore below.

 

Radius Tactile Systems

Curved Detectable Warning Tiles at Street Corner

Radius (curved) detectable warning tiles. Photo by ADA Solutions

Radius or curved tactile warning systems typically feature raised domes in a square grid pattern. Radius systems are designed to follow the contour of sidewalk curbs, curb ramps, and other curved surfaces. They warn people when they’re close to the edge of a roadway or another potential hazard.

People using a wheelchair or walker and those who are visually impaired can feel the raised domes beneath their feet or detect them under their wheelchair. Radius systems can be installed in one of two ways: set in wet concrete or surface applied.

 

Replaceable Cast-in-Place Systems

Yellow Cast-In Place Detectable Warning Tiles Leading to Street

Replaceable cast-in-place detectable warning tile. Photo by ADA Solutions

Cast-in-place tactile warning systems are designed to be easily embedded into fresh concrete. The pre-assembled panels come with a heavy-duty anchoring system that secures the panels into the ground.

The cast-in-place replaceable panels by ADA Solutions are designed with recessed fixtures on the backside to ensure the panel can be embedded two inches into the concrete. As the name suggests, they are easy to replace when installed according to specifications.

 

Permanent Cast-in-Place Systems

Close Up of Truncated Domes on Yellow ADA Tile

Permanent cast-in-place warning tiles. Photo by ADA Solutions

Designed for use in new constructions or new curb ramps, permanent cast-in-place systems are highly durable and meant to be a long-term solution for any project or climate.

The permanent cast-in-place panels by ADA Solutions are made with a durable exterior homogenous glass, carbon, and fiberglass-reinforced composite material for superior structural support.

 

Surface Applied Systems

Surface applied warning panels are ideal for retrofitting an existing concrete surface or for use during new construction.

ADA Solutions offers rectangular and curved (radius) surface tiles. ADA’s surface applied pavers are designed with beveled edges for a smooth, safe transition.

 

 

Cast Iron Tactile Plate Systems

Man Replacing Cast Iron Tactile Warning Plate

Cast iron tactile plate systems. Photo by ADA Solutions

Built to stand the test of time and all-weather situations, cast iron tactile plates are designed to be used as a detectable warning surface for curb ramps and transitions between the sidewalk and street.

The iron plates by ADA Solutions are intended to be installed flush with the cement and anchored via bolts, washers, and screws.

 

Replaceable Graphic Tile Systems

Blue Tactile Warning Surface with Handicap Logo Graphic

Graphic tile warning tiles. Photo by ADA Solutions

Graphic tile systems are designed to provide both tactile sensations and visual information. They are fully customizable and can be imprinted with symbols and written messages (e.g., “Board here”) in different colors and fonts.

 

Wayfinding Surface Products

Detectable Warning Tiles Used to Create Walkway

Wayfinding surface tiles. Photo by ADA Solutions

Wayfinding tiles help direct people with visual impairments safely between spaces. They’re used in a variety of locations, including shopping malls, transit stations, sidewalks and outdoor walkways, and near elevators and escalators.

 

The directional bar and guide surface tiles by ADA Solutions are made of durable, weather-resistant materials and are designed to be installed on a concrete substrate.

 

Photoluminescent Systems

Detectable Warning Surface in Subway With LED Lights

Photoluminescent system. Photo by ADA Solutions

Photoluminescent systems provide emergency light after a power failure or a sudden loss of light. They’re not dependent on any power source—rather, they are charged by ambient light. They provide pedestrians with emergency visual cues and enhance emergency preparedness.

Glow-Dome, ADA Solutions’ photoluminescent system, is available in replaceable, retrofit transit, and paver tiles.

 

 

Become ADA-Compliant by Installing Detectable Warning Tiles

Detectable warning surfaces aren’t just a nicety—they’re a necessity required by law in all municipalities today. Public and private businesses with 15 or more employees must be ADA-compliant. This includes retail outlets, grocery stores, hotels, restaurants, theaters, banks, hospitals and doctor’s offices, and other organizations that serve the public.

The fines for ADA-noncompliance can be steep—up to $75,000 for an initial violation and up to $150,000 for subsequent violations.

Even if your business isn’t currently ADA-compliant, making even small changes now can help make your business more accessible and inclusive.

ADA Solutions is the leading manufacturer of detectable warning surface products in the U.S. For more than 20 years, we have provided long-lasting detectable warning systems—including replaceable cast-in-place dry and wet tile, ADA warning mats, and more—to contractors, engineers, architects, and distributors. Learn more about our products.

high-cost-of-ada-non-compliance-feature-image

The Americans with Disabilities Act outlines significant fines and penalties for businesses and facilities which are not compliant. The following information sheds light on some of the little-known costs and penalties for ADA non-compliance.

ADA Penalties

Penalties can be imposed on non-compliant businesses on the federal and individual level. Federal lawsuits will typically generate court orders requiring compliance in a specific number of days. Individuals may seek legal fees, compensatory damages, and more.

Drive-By ADA Lawsuits

These lawsuits can be brought forward by individuals or groups in a single or multiple filing under ADA Title III. The threat of a lawsuit can also be used to obtain a sizable settlement.

Personal Injury Lawsuits

Non-compliance increases a business’s vulnerability to personal injury lawsuits by disabled persons who become injured on a business’s property. Slips and falls and unsafe surfaces are two of many examples of successful personal injury lawsuits which have yielded millions in damages.

The good news is that your business can avoid the high financial risk of non-compliance with the right ADA equipment. Want more details about the little-known ways your business may be in violation? This infographic from ADA Solutions reveals the many ways your business can be reported.

The High Cost of ADA Non-Compliance for Businesses Infographic

Click below to embed this infographic into your website:

anti slip traction on a step

Have you ever walked on a busy city street and seen raised panels near a crosswalk or bus stop? If so, you’ve been up close and personal with a tactile warning surface.

These systems add a detectable warning surface to indicate pedestrian access routes. They can be made with a variety of materials, including iron, which is durable and long-lasting. Iron tactile plates are especially important for people walking between a sidewalk and a street.

There are many different reasons why a business should invest in an iron tactile warning surface. Here are the benefits you need to know about.

They’re Durable

There are many different materials that can be used to create ADA tiles, but iron is one of the most durable and effective options on the market. While cast-iron plates aren’t available in a variety of colors like other materials, the color provides enough contrast to the surrounding pavement.

Another benefit of cast iron tiles is that they are long-lasting and don’t have to be replaced as often. This is because cast iron is able to withstand even the most severe weather conditions. Extreme temperatures, snow, and salt have no impact on durable iron tiles.

They Ensure ADA Compliance

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) set many standards that ensure that those with disabilities have equal rights and opportunities as those without. One of the most important sections set within the law is the nondiscrimination on the basis of disability by public accommodations and in commercial facilities.

In short, this title sets the minimum standard for accessibility of private and public facilities. This includes removing barriers and making reasonable modifications to help those with vision, hearing, and speech disabilities.

A cast-iron detectable warning surface is one way to ensure ADA compliance. These systems warn those with disabilities that they’re approaching a street crossing or a drop-off that may be hazardous.

The tiles are textured and slip-resistant, which ensures that the plates meet the friction requirements set in the ADA, as well as the ADA Accessibility Guidelines.

They’re Beneficial for Those Without Disabilities

Cast Iron ADA Detectable Warning Tiles

It’s worth noting that cast iron tactile warning surfaces also help those who don’t have a visual impairment. These surfaces are quite helpful for those who use wheelchairs or walkers. They can also help a parent who is pushing a stroller, making them aware of their location in relation to their designated walking path and the street.

In today’s connected world, it’s not uncommon to see someone freely walking while giving all of their attention to their phone. Cast iron warning surfaces can also help those who are distracted and need a reminder that they’re approaching a busy road or crosswalk.

Choose ADA Solutions for All of Your Needs

Whether you’re interested in buying a cast iron detectable warning surface system or some other kind of ADA tiles, you can find exactly what you need from ADA Solutions. Our iron dome system is durable and long-lasting and can be used to ensure you’re meeting ADA requirements.

ADA Solutions has provided detectable warning surfaces in North America for almost 20 years. With more than seven million square feet of tactile warning surfaces installed, you can ensure you’re buying a quality product!

Call us at (800) 372-0519 for a free quote.

ADA americans with disabilities act image

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) provides certain protections for those with disabilities to provide an equal opportunity to access, like for people without disabilities. For business owners, it is important to understand when you are legally required to be ADA-compliant.

The ADA applies to organizations and businesses that fit one or more of the following criteria:

  • All local, county, state, and federal government agencies.
  • Any business that relies on the general public or for their benefit.
  • Privately run companies that currently have 15 or more employees.
  • Non-profit and charitable organizations which either have 15 or more employees or which operate for the benefit of the general public.

A good general guideline you can use to determine if your business should be ADA-compliant is to answer this question: “Does your business or organization have places or areas that are designed for public accommodation?”
equality for those with disabilities image
Public accommodation is defined broadly and could include one or more of the following types of businesses or locations:

  • Retail Stores
  • Restaurants
  • Public Parks
  • Public Restrooms
  • Airports
  • Train/Rail/Subway Stations and Terminals
  • Bus Stations and Terminals
  • Healthcare Facilities and Hospitals
  • Resorts, Hotels, and Motels
  • Apartment and Rental Properties: View the ADA Requirements for Apartment Buildings
  • Public Sidewalks
  • Parking Garages
  • Sports Stadiums/Arenas
  • Schools/Colleges/Universities

Essentially, any areas where people have access without any restrictions should follow the ADA requirements. It is equally important to remember that privately run businesses that do not rely on the general public or function for their benefit can still be bound by the ADA, so long as they have 15 or more people in their employ.

How Can a Business Verify ADA Compliance?

The Department of Justice (DOJ) oversees the ADA requirements. The DOJ highly recommends businesses and organizations perform their own self-evaluations to determine whether their operations meet current ADA standards of compliance.1

To help get you started, let’s look at a general overview of what you can do:

  • Step 1: Create a floor plan for your business and its layout.
    You can sketch this or make one on the computer—whatever is easier for you. On the floor plan, make sure to include the location of furniture, doorways, entryways, elevators, stairways, and so on. Be as detailed as possible to include every aspect.
  • Step 2: Review the floorplan layout.
    The next step requires gathering a tape measure and taking measurements. You need to measure the width of doors, aisles, and other areas people walk through. These areas should be wide enough to accommodate people in wheelchairs, without any obstructions.
    In addition, in bathrooms, there should be at least one stall with a door wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. The toilet in this stall also needs to be installed at the correct ADA-required height and include handrails. You will also need at least one sink installed that is accessible from a wheelchair.
  • Step 3: Make a list of action items that need to be addressed.
    As you are walking around your business and taking measurements, make a note of anything that does not meet current ADA measurement requirements. These items will need to be corrected in order to ensure ADA compliance.
  • Step 4: Put yourself in the place of a person with disabilities.
    A great way to tell how disabled-friendly is your business would be to get a wheelchair and use this to get around. Can you open doors easily and get in and out without any obstructions or problems? Are there specific areas where corners seem tight? You could also put on a blindfold and use a cane to walk around to see whether there are concerns or issues you need to address for people with visual impairments.
  • Step 5: Don’t forget to do an assessment outside of your building.
    ADA requirements extend to the exterior of your business, as well. You need to make sure accessing your building is possible. Two areas of importance are parking lots and sidewalks. Parking lots should have a certain percentage of handicap-accessible parking spaces that are clearly marked and fairly close to the main entrance.These spaces have to be wide enough to accommodate a van with a wheelchair lift. Additionally, there should be a clearly defined ADA walkway or crossing for people to use to cross traffic and gain access to your building.For a sidewalk, there needs to be a ramp for access to your building. The ramp should be near the main entrance and not hidden on the side or back where getting to it can be difficult. Ramps have to be at a specific incline and should include some type of ADA-detectable warning surface, like truncated domes.There are different types of ramps allowed under the ADA. As such, each one has its own specific requirements regarding width, placement, and so on, which you will need to review. In some settings, you may also be required to install handrails on the exterior of ramps.

Please keep in mind, this is just a general overview and does not include every specific requirement you may need to consider for your business.

The ADA offers different checklists that can be used for existing structures as well as new construction. In some cases, an existing structure may fall under previous ADA requirements, depending on when it was built. However, if any renovations or updates are made to the facility, then the business could be required to bring all ADA standards up to date using the current requirements.
ADA americans with disabilities act image

What Areas Should Be Given Priority for ADA Compliance?

The ADA recommends breaking down your facility into four different priority areas when creating your checklist.2 The top priority is accessibility to approaching and entering the building. If people cannot access your building, then it will not matter what areas of your building are ADA-compliant.
The second priority is in regards to what type of access people with disabilities have to services, goods, and products your business offers. Basically, is it easy for them to get around and obtain the things they need? Or are there obstacles in their way that you need to resolve?
Your third priority is the accessibility of restrooms. You only need to worry about bathrooms if you offer the general public access to them or have 15 or more people in your employ.

The fourth priority applies to other areas of your building and business, such as:

  • Elevator Call Buttons and Control Panels
  • Public Telephones
  • Self-Help Building Directories
  • Self-Service Kiosks
  • Drinking Fountains
  • Vending Machines
  • Employee Break Areas

Don’t forget, the ADA covers more than just accessibility for people with disabilities. It also applies to employment opportunities, internet websites, and more. This is why you will want to obtain a copy of the current standards and review these in detail to see which ones apply to your business.
gray warning safety surface

Where Can I Obtain ADA Flooring and Warning Surface Products?

Detectible warning surface must be installed in areas where there is a public right-of-way, like store entrances, crosswalks, walkways in parking lots, and so on. When looking for ADA flooring with raised tactile domes and warning surfaces, you need to make sure the supplier’s products meet all current ADA regulations and specifications.

At ADA Solutions, all of our products satisfy all current ADA requirements and specifications. We even offer a wide range of colors of tactile warning surfaces. While the ADA does not have any requirements regarding colors, except that they contrast with light and dark, some cities and states do have specific ordinances and laws that require businesses to use a specific color.
We offer ADA detectable warning surface products for existing sidewalks and walkways that can be installed over the surface. We also offer cast-in-place solutions for newly poured sidewalks and walkways, as well as replaceable panel options.

To learn more about our ADA-compliant surface products or assistance in selecting the right ones for your business, please feel free to contact ADA Solutions at (800) 372-0519 today!

For those who are not disabled, the relative ease of daily tasks is often taken for granted. The non-disabled have few problems getting to work, running errands, or crossing a busy street; the world has largely been designed for this majority. For a disabled person, however, the experience is very different. A visually impaired person, for example, may be unable to drive to work, have trouble using crosswalks, or be injured by a hazard he or she cannot see.

According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion individuals in the world are disabled in some way. Of those, approximately 285 million are visually impaired (having significantly low vision that cannot be helped with corrective lenses alone).¹ In the United States, the National Federation of the blind reports that more than seven million people have some form of visual impairment.²

Unfortunately, even with millions of disabled individuals worldwide, there are still many spaces that aren’t as accessible or safe for the disabled as they are for others. Because of this, the disabled tend to be at greater risk of an accident.

Common Accidents and Their Causes

The following are a few common types of accidents involving disabled persons, as well as their typical causes:

  • Falling
  • Common causes: Slippery surfaces that could not be avoided or foreseen due to their disability; tripping over hazards (e.g., uneven sidewalks); attempting to go upstairs when a ramp is unavailable.
  • Getting Hit by a Motor Vehicle
  • Common causes: Failure by drivers to acknowledge pedestrians in wheelchairs; inability to distinguish between the sidewalk and the road (if visually impaired).
  • Injury from Objects or Other People
  • Common causes: ADA non-compliance and unrecognized hazards (e.g., narrow store aisles), disregard for disabled individuals in a crowded space; lack of appropriate safety measures.

Using ADA Tiles to Prevent Accidents and Support Accessibility

One way to create safe, accessible spaces is to use ADA tiles to alert the visually impaired to areas bordering roadways, parking lots, and other areas of potential danger. ADA-detectable warning tiles feature a unique textured surface that can be felt through most types of footwear, providing a tactile alert to the person that he or she is approaching a curb or crosswalk. This type of warning is especially important now that curb design has become more sloped, making it more difficult to feel for the edges.

The use of ADA warning tiles for accident prevention and accessibility has numerous benefits for those installing them, as well. Using modular tiles to create tactile warning surfaces makes the application simple, flexible, and easy to replace. Focusing on accessibility and safety for the visually impaired also ensures that businesses aren’t alienating an entire group of potential customers.

The Unique Design of Detectable Warning Surface Tiles

Perhaps the most important aspect of tactile surface tiles is their carefully planned texture. While the bumps on the surface of the tiles may seem arbitrary, they’re manufactured to specifications provided in the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG). The shape, known as the “truncated dome,” has been determined to be ideal for detectability and overall surface safety. To be compliant with the ADAAG, each dome must be within the defined height, diameter, and spacing ranges.

It’s not just about the truncated dome, however; every aspect of an ADA-detectable warning tile’s design is intended to support safety for everyone who might come in contact with it. The texture, for example, is important not just for being easily detected by visually impaired persons; it’s also perfect for providing grip in otherwise slippery conditions.

ADA tiles can also be manufactured in a variety of colors, the most popular being a bright, easily visible shade of yellow. These different color options make it possible for development planners to create high contrast between the tiles and their surrounding surfaces, making the tiles ideal as visual cues for the sighted.

The Americans With Disabilities Act

Your Obligations as a Business Owner or Public Servant

If you own a business or are responsible for planning a public space, you’ll need to make sure that your plans meet certain safety and accessibility standards. In addition to obeying all relevant building codes in your area, you have an obligation to meet ADA accessibility guidelines so that disabled individuals can easily access the space and be protected from accidents.

The ADAAG cover a variety of topics, including (but not limited to) the following:

  • Minimum accessibility requirements
  • Accessible room design
  • Bathroom stalls
  • Object heights (sinks, mirrors, hand dryers, soap dispensers, light switches, etc.)
  • Building entrance ramps
  • Detectable warnings (ADA flooring, ADA walkway requirements)
  • Detectable through footwear by the visually impaired
  • Sizing (minimum 6-8 inches from back of curb)
  • Truncated dome texture design
  • Signage
  • Curb Ramps
  • Usable by those with walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, etc.
  • Sloped transition from the street up to the walkway
  • Design of accessible routes
  • Doorways, elevators, hallways, etc.
  • Appropriate slope and width measurements
  • Alternatives to stairs
  • Sufficient turning space (for wheelchairs, scooters, etc.)

While following all of these different regulations might seem like unnecessary red tape, remember that they exist to protect and support the needs and safety of everyone, regardless of their abilities. It’s also not as difficult or time-consuming as you might think; ADA Solutions’ detectable warning surfaces, for example, are easy to order, install, and replace as needed.

Handicap Symbol on a Ramp

Before you solidify your plans or do any installations, make sure that you look into all of the relevant construction, safety, and accessibility laws in your state and community. Depending on where you live, you may have other legal requirements in addition to the federal ADA guidelines.

ADA Solutions Is an Industry Leader in Detectable Warnings

Whether you need ADA tiles for new construction, to correct compliance issues, or to replace old worn-out surfaces, you can trust the superior warning tile products at ADA Solutions. Our fully ADA-compliant tiles are made from heavy-duty materials like cast iron and fiberglass polymer composites, giving you years of reliable function without wear. Our tiles are also UV stable, which means that even years in direct sunlight won’t change their color or contrast.

ADA Solutions offers a range of detectable warning surface products for various applications:

    • Cast-in-place tiles (standard or replaceable)
    • Delivered ready for installation in freshly poured concrete.
    • Made from durable composite materials, ideal for long-term use.
    • Replaceable version has a surface piece that is anchored into panel body for easy replacement after years of wear.
    • Surface applied tiles
    • Ideal for retrofitting and quick installation (5-10 minutes, in some cases).
    • Thin, bevel-edged tiles provide a safe transition when installed on the surface of existing concrete.
    • Radius systems
    • Designed to support accessibility and ADAAG compliance along curved areas (radius conditions).
    • Easy, fast cutting with pre-scored radius measurements at 10, 15 and 20 feet.
    • No cutting needed for radiuses of 11-13 feet.
    • Cast iron “Irondome” tactile systems
    • Exterior grade tactile warning surface tiles cast from solid, extremely durable iron.
    • Natural finish of cast iron meets ADA color requirements.
    • Eligible for LEED® points (ideal for businesses seeking LEED® certification).
    • Replaceable graphic tile systems
    • Custom-designed tiles featuring full four-color graphics, messaging, and/or advertisements.
    • Artwork can be displayed across one or more tiles.
    • Replaceable for easy updating of graphics and messaging.
    • Other products
    • Photoluminescent “Glow-Dome” systems.
    • Wayfinding surfaces.

All of our tactile warning surface products are designed to meet ADAAG standards. With appropriate installation, our tiles provide full compliance and maximum accessibility.

To learn more about how you can prevent accidents involving the disabled and meet your obligations to safety and accessibility, explore our products online or call ADA Solutions at (800) 372-0519.

Sources

1. http://www.who.int/blindness/GLOBALDATAFINALforweb.pdf

all-way stop sign

In the United States, both corporations and public safety organizations alike do their best to improve public safety by making the public aware of various hazards. The most common way to communicate this information is through the use of bright, clear messaging on easy-to-read signs, but it isn’t always easy to figure out what these signs mean. Furthermore, some people can’t see signs at all—including those with vision problems.

In today’s post, we’ll talk about what some of these signs really mean, as well as how you can best respond to them. We’ll also tell you how your organization can make it easier to recognize hazard zones even when individuals aren’t able to use visual cues.

Sign Colors and Their Meanings

  • The first thing you need to understand about signage in the United States is that color is extremely important. Not only does it make signs visually recognizable from a distance, but it also directly correlates to what the sign means.
  • Red is one of the most common sign colors. This bright, bold color is normally used to show the need to stop, either at intersections or other road hazards. You’ll find this color used on stop signs, yield signs, prohibition signs, and more.
  • White, on the other hand, is bright and bold in a different way. It stands out against the road and is easier to see at night. This color is only really used in regulatory signs, such as speed limit signage.
  • As you might guess, signs with green coloring indicate permission to go; the direction of traffic; and guidance for turnoffs, intersections, or overpasses. They are also sometimes used to identify the name of places, highways, or turnoffs.
  • Signs that are bright neon yellow or bright neon green, on the other hand, are mostly used to identify crossings where the risk of injuries is extremely high. This includes crosswalks near schools, hospitals, and, sometimes, shopping malls.
  • Orange is normally used for warning or hazard signs, such as bumps, uneven roads, sharp turns, or construction. This color grabs attention because it is used far less often than other road signs.
  • Coral signs are rare; they typically indicate an incident management event or emergency response is unfolding. This may include accidents on the road.
  • Blue signs provide guidance on local services, information on exits or turn-offs to “civilization” after long stretches of highway, or information detailing how to get assistance from road services.
  • Last, brown signs are governmental and/or state-based indicators for areas of special interest. Most Americans see this type of sign when they visit state or national parks.

The Problem with Visual Signs

road construction sign

Visual signs are a fantastic way to communicate safety or other information as citizens move around—but only if the citizens in question can see. Some Americans can’t visually confirm signage. These individuals may struggle to get around or stay safe if cities and towns don’t find alternative ways to communicate this vital information to them.

The good news is that there are ways to achieve this goal. ADA detectable warning surfaces take signs to the ground, putting a slightly textured surface underfoot. They’re most often used in doorways, entrances, intersections, and crosswalks. When visually impaired people walk over one of these surfaces, they feel the change in texture and know to use caution. This is a far more ideal and accessible choice compared to bright road signs, which are useless for those who are visually impaired.

At ADA Solutions, we provide access to a broad range of Detectable Warning and Wayfinding Products . You can help to make the environment in your local area safer and more amenable for visually impaired people with each tile you install. We are all responsible for making our world more accessible—won’t you help?

Woman on Wheelchair

One of the areas the ADA oversees is the protection of customers with disabilities who enter public spaces. They provide safety codes for businesses to adhere to in order to ensure the safety of anyone who visits the premises—but what happens when a company doesn’t follow the ADA flooring specifications and a person is injured on-site? Can businesses be sued for not having ADA-compliant surfaces?

Is Suing Even an Option?

The short answer to this question is yes. Property owners are responsible for doing whatever they can to prevent others from being injured on their premises. So, companies must adhere to ADA flooring standards at all times. Your business can potentially be sued by individuals who suffer injuries on your property.

What Does the ADA Cover?

ADA legislation exists to make publicly available spaces more accessible and safe for patients who have mobility issues. This includes sidewalks, entry ramps, hospitals, retail outlets, housing units, public facilities, grocery stores, and banks. The ADA provides clear outlines of what is required of property owners to ensure ADA flooring and ADA walkways are accessible at all times.

What Can Happen in a Non-ADA Compliant Space?

Someone who is injured in a non-ADA-compliant public space has the option of filing a complaint with the government. They may also file a premises liability claim against the business where the individual was hurt. A premises liability case looks at injuries sustained on private and public property and whether they were influenced by negligence—such as refusing to meet ADA-compliance standards.

Examples of ADA Specifications

ADA regulations are very extensive, especially when it comes to public spaces. Many business owners implement these regulations because they’re common knowledge. However, they may not be fully aware of other implementations that are just as important.

Here are some of the most important highlights:

  1. Wheelchair ramps at main entryways and potentially side entrances
  2. Ensuring curb entrances to sidewalks are accessible to everyone
  3. Proper positioning of merchandise shelving to be reachable
  4. Installing specialized doorway hinges or installing wider doors
  5. Leaving space between obstacles for easier wheelchair movement
  6. Replacing high-pile carpets to reduce or totally remove tripping hazards
  7. Installing grab bars and raised toilet seats in bathrooms to improve safety

If you haven’t sought out ADA-compliant renovations, this list is the best place to start. Even the most simple changes can help you assist people with disabilities to become happier and comfortable when they visit your business.

How Premise Liability Cases Work

sidewalk curb anti slip pad

In premise liability cases, the property owner is the defendant. Slip and fall claims are the most common injury case for public spaces, though they’re not the only type a company without ADA flooring may face. The absence of grab bars in bathrooms is another common example.

In each case, the complainant’s lawyer will look for previous injury cases, investigate the premises, and reach out to the property owner’s insurance company to receive compensation. If they can prove that you purposefully avoided ADA compliance, you may be held liable.

ADA compliance protects your business from liability cases in the event of injuries or accidents, especially if you can prove you made attempts to install ADA-compliant elements. Protect your company today by contacting ADA Solutions for guidance and compliance products.