ADA Compliance: Understanding Accessible Design Standards

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) issue accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), according to guidance published by the Access Board. These standards apply to new construction, alterations, and additions to places of public accommodation, commercial facilities, and state and local government facilities.

The ADA, enacted in 1990, protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination. Disability rights are considered civil rights, extending to areas such as voting and parking, as outlined on ADA.gov. The law aims to ensure equal opportunity for people with disabilities in many aspects of public life.

The ADA Standards for Accessible Design detail the requirements for physical accessibility in buildings and facilities. These standards are based on minimum guidelines established by the Access Board. A guide explaining and illustrating provisions within the standards, including animations, is also available from the Access Board.

Regulations under the ADA, developed by the DOJ, clarify the rights of individuals with disabilities and the obligations of covered entities – including state and local governments, and many businesses – to prevent discrimination. Separate regulations exist for Title II, covering state and local governments, and Title III, addressing public accommodations and commercial facilities.

Recent updates to ADA guidance include a new rule on the accessibility of web content and mobile applications provided by state and local governments. A webinar summarizing this rule is available on ADA.gov, designed to provide introductory information about its requirements. The ADA also addresses accessibility concerns related to medical diagnostic equipment used by state and local governments.

The ADA’s scope extends to emerging technologies, with ongoing consideration of potential discrimination related to algorithms, artificial intelligence, and disability in hiring practices. Legal documents enforceable under the ADA are available on ADA.gov.

The original ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) were published by the Access Board in 1991, with subsequent updates and supplements addressing state and local government facilities and elements designed for children’s employ. The ADAAG Review Advisory Committee was formed in 1994 to assist in updating the guidelines.