This past week we were finishing a 15 hour training program for there of our new ADA audit architects. They each have over 20 years of architectural experience. It was a 5 story, 300 room transient lodging facility. I know you want to know how they didn't. I would say very well, actually.
The trainees found over 175 items that were not in ADA compliance and the building is maybe 15 years old. So, the question is how could this happen? Very easily, we see it all the time, but if you are pointing that finger looking for answers, here is where you want to start:
- The architects understanding of the ADA law.
- Building officials do not inspect for ADA items, only code.
- Owner does not want to spend the money for ADA compliance.
- The contractor understanding of the ADA law.
In the real world, it's usually a combination of all of the above. The architect is going to design it like he did his last job; the building official will be saying I do not do ADA; to the it's always a money issue and a reliance on his architect and contractor; and to the contractor his sub-contractors are gong to build it like they built their last job. That is why 90% of our buildings are not ADA compliant and the ACCESS "Watchdogs in Wheelchairs" are on a mission to change that 90% to 50% in the next 10 years.
Leave us your comments here or on our FaceBook page at
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Access-Technologies-Services-Inc/268659564730. You can also contact us at
hfalstad@accessts.net or call us at (702) 649-7575.
Hank
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