Guidance on the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Analysis and Com menta ry on the 201 0 A DAStandards Commenters stated that basing accessible of any sales and service counter to be the seating on seating spaces and standing same as the level of service provided at the spaces potentially represents a significant inaccessible portions of the counter. increase in scoping, particularly given the ambiguity in what represents a “standing The 2010 Standards specify different lengths space” and urged a return to the 1991 for the accessible portion of sales and service Standard of requiring accessible seating counters based on the type of approach based on fixed dining tables. The scoping provided. Where a forward approach is change merely takes into account that provided, the accessible portion of the tables may vary in size so that basing counter must be at least 30 inches long and the calculation on the number of tables no higher than 36 inches, and knee and toe rather than on the number of individuals space must be provided under the counter. that may be accommodated by the tables The requirement that knee and toe space could unnecessarily restrict opportunities be provided where only clear floor space for for persons with disabilities. The revised a forward approach to a sales and service scoping permits greater flexibility by allowing counter is provided is not a new requirement. designers to disperse accessible seating It is a clarification of the ongoing requirement and standing spaces throughout the dining that part of the sales and service counter be area. Human factors data, which is readily accessible. This requirement applies to the available to designers, provides information entire accessible part of sales and service about the amount of space required for both counters and requires that the accessible eating and drinking while seated or standing. clear floor or ground space adjacent to those counters be kept clear of merchandise, 227 and 904 Sales and Service equipment, and other items so that the accessible part of the counter is readily Check-Out Aisles and Sales and Service accessible to and usable by individuals Counters. The 1991 Standards, at section with disabilities. The accessible part of the 7.2, and the 2010 Standards, at section counter must also be staffed and provide an 904.4, contain technical requirements equivalent level of service as that provided to for sales and service counters. The 1991 all customers. Standards generally require sales and service counters to provide an accessible Where clear floor space for a parallel portion at least 36 inches long and no approach is provided, the accessible portion higher than 36 inches above the finish of the counter must be at least 36 inches floor. The nondiscrimination requirements long and no higher than 36 inches above the of the ADA regulations require the level of finish floor. A clear floor or ground space that service provided at the accessible portion is at least 48 inches long x 30 inches wide Department of Justice Guidance on the 2010 Standards: Titles II and III - 141