What Is an ADA-Compliant Mirror?

For individuals with disabilities, something like using a public restroom can be a bit of a challenge. The good news is that it’s easier for them to maneuver in public restrooms now than it was 40 years ago. This is because of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

The ADA is a civil rights law that both prohibited the discrimination against people with disabilities and required that certain reasonable accommodations be made for those with disabilities. This extends to public restrooms, where companies must choose between a few commercial ADA-compliant mirror options.

This article will cover how to have an ADA-compliant bathroom mirror.

Why does the ADA impact public bathroom design?

The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures that everyone, including those with disabilities, receives full and equal enjoyment of goods and services. This means that even if someone is disabled and in a wheelchair, public restrooms should be designed to accommodate them and leave enough space for them to move around independently. Failure to provide adequate accommodation for those with disabilities is classified as discrimination, which the ADA aims to eliminate.

What are some of the guidelines for public bathrooms regarding ADA compliance?

There are several design features that must be present in public restrooms for them to be ADA compliant. There needs to be signage indicating that the bathroom is handicap accessible. There also must be grab bars inside the restroom stall; the toilet must have certain dimensions and clearance space; and the stalls themselves must leave room for someone in a wheelchair to comfortably turn completely around. Bathroom sinks must be at least 34 inches above the floor, while providing knee clearance of 27” by 30” wide and 11” by 25” deep.

What about bathroom mirrors?

Here’s how to have an ADA-compliant mirror: The bottom edge of the mirror cannot be more than 40 inches off the ground, and the top of the mirror needs to be at least 74 inches above the floor. A full-length mirror would satisfy the requirements for ADA compliance and would even allow children to use it as well.

Are there any mirrors that can make it easier for those with disabilities?

Yes. When deciding between commercial ADA-compliant mirror options, there are a few varieties that are especially helpful to those with disabilities. Bradley makes three different types of tilting mirrors that are angled downwards to allow those in a wheelchair a better view of their reflection in the mirror. These mirrors are available in fixed-tilt and adjustable-tilt versions.

What are the penalties for ADA noncompliance?

A business or other organization may be fined up to $75,000 for a single ADA violation—and that number can rise to $150,000 for multiple ADA violations. For most businesses or organizations, that’s a substantial financial hit. Those fines pale in comparison to some of the costs of having their facilities retrofitted to comply with ADA regulations.

Call to discuss your ADA-compliant mirrors today

Now that you know how to have an ADA-compliant mirror and some of the commercial ADA-compliant mirror options, call us at Santa Fe Glass & Mirror. We’ve been offering high-quality commercial and residential glass and mirror solutions in Santa Fe, NM for over 35 years, so call today.

Categorised in: Mirror Replacement

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