ADA-Compliant Spaces
Karly Pierce Lystad
January 25, 2023
Adapting for the Future: Making Your Studio ADA-Compliant
The Americans with Disabilities Act has been in place since 1990, but there’s always something new to learn about the regulations for ADA-compliant buildings. Creating an accessible and safe environment is essential for creating a successful studio space. Check out what constitutes an ADA-compliant building, plus other considerations to create a fully inclusive environment.
ADA-Compliant Basics
It’s safe to say that your studio built in 1991 or after is ADA-compliant. The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, (and updated in 2010) so any building constructed after this time should comply with its standards. However, many studios are located in buildings that were built prior to 1991 and don’t meet the necessary standards. Here are some things to consider:
In general terms, an ADA-compliant space should include wide and clear pathways, ramps when necessary, and handrails to help those with mobility issues. Additionally, all signage should be large and clearly visible, and all furniture and fixtures should be designed to be usable by everyone. Check to make sure your waiting area, restrooms, and all activities are physically accessible to people with disabilities. Also, be sure to provide appropriate accommodations for those with vision, hearing, and mobility impairments.
Do a self-check:
For an in-depth look at ADA building requirements, visit: https://www.ada.gov/law-and-regs/design-standards/
Going Above and Beyond
Having and operating an ADA-compliant studio goes far beyond the building structure. Accessibility compliance also includes designing and developing a website, product, or service in a way that makes it accessible to people with disabilities. This includes making sure content is readable and understandable by people with various physical, visual, hearing, and cognitive disabilities. ADA compliance also includes features like providing transcripts for audio or video content and including subtitles for videos.
Other things to consider: Ensure your pathways are clear of dance bags, shoes, clothes, and water bottles. Stay on top of snow removal on sidewalks and entryways. Always make sure the handicapped parking spaces are reserved for those who need them.
Lastly, it is important to make sure that your staff is aware of and sensitive to the needs of people with disabilities so that they can provide a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Remember – it’s not just your students with disabilities to think about. There will be parents, grandparents, injured students, staff and other visitors who require additional accessibility.
For a deeper dive into creating an inclusive studio, check out our Creating An Inclusive Studio Webinar and Classroom Management SOS Dance Teacher Training.
ADA-Compliant Challenge!
If you’re serious about creating an accessible environment, put yourself in your student’s shoes. If available, borrow a pair of crutches, a wheelchair, a support cane, a walker, or other assistive devices. Or, you can also use a rolling office chair to ride in as a wheelchair or push as a walker. Take a tour of your space from the point of view of someone who uses these devices. Start in the parking lot and go through your entire studio, including changing rooms, restrooms, backstage areas, etc. It might surprise you how challenging it is to maneuver throughout the environment, even if it’s ADA-compliant!
Rhythm Works Integrative Dance
Rhythm Works Integrative Dance is a ground-breaking rhythm & dance program designed for those with learning differences and special needs. RWID is committed to helping you meet the needs of all your students. While we focus on working with students who have special needs, we have no doubt you’ll utilize the material in all of your dance, music, special education, physical education and other classes.
Check out our different instructor certification options.
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and never miss a Quick Tip!
The Americans with Disabilities Act has been in place since 1990, but there’s always something new to learn about the regulations for ADA-compliant buildings. Creating an accessible and safe environment is essential for creating a successful studio space. Check out what constitutes an ADA-compliant building, plus other considerations to create a fully inclusive environment.
ADA-Compliant Basics
It’s safe to say that your studio built in 1991 or after is ADA-compliant. The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, (and updated in 2010) so any building constructed after this time should comply with its standards. However, many studios are located in buildings that were built prior to 1991 and don’t meet the necessary standards. Here are some things to consider:
In general terms, an ADA-compliant space should include wide and clear pathways, ramps when necessary, and handrails to help those with mobility issues. Additionally, all signage should be large and clearly visible, and all furniture and fixtures should be designed to be usable by everyone. Check to make sure your waiting area, restrooms, and all activities are physically accessible to people with disabilities. Also, be sure to provide appropriate accommodations for those with vision, hearing, and mobility impairments.
Do a self-check:
- Ramp or lift access for wheelchair users and those with impaired mobility
- Wheelchair-friendly layout
- Doorways wide enough for wheelchairs and other mobility devices
- Tactile signage for visually impaired individuals
- Accessible restrooms with grab bars, lower countertops, and accessible fixtures
For an in-depth look at ADA building requirements, visit: https://www.ada.gov/law-and-regs/design-standards/
Going Above and Beyond
Having and operating an ADA-compliant studio goes far beyond the building structure. Accessibility compliance also includes designing and developing a website, product, or service in a way that makes it accessible to people with disabilities. This includes making sure content is readable and understandable by people with various physical, visual, hearing, and cognitive disabilities. ADA compliance also includes features like providing transcripts for audio or video content and including subtitles for videos.
Other things to consider: Ensure your pathways are clear of dance bags, shoes, clothes, and water bottles. Stay on top of snow removal on sidewalks and entryways. Always make sure the handicapped parking spaces are reserved for those who need them.
Lastly, it is important to make sure that your staff is aware of and sensitive to the needs of people with disabilities so that they can provide a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. Remember – it’s not just your students with disabilities to think about. There will be parents, grandparents, injured students, staff and other visitors who require additional accessibility.
For a deeper dive into creating an inclusive studio, check out our Creating An Inclusive Studio Webinar and Classroom Management SOS Dance Teacher Training.
ADA-Compliant Challenge!
If you’re serious about creating an accessible environment, put yourself in your student’s shoes. If available, borrow a pair of crutches, a wheelchair, a support cane, a walker, or other assistive devices. Or, you can also use a rolling office chair to ride in as a wheelchair or push as a walker. Take a tour of your space from the point of view of someone who uses these devices. Start in the parking lot and go through your entire studio, including changing rooms, restrooms, backstage areas, etc. It might surprise you how challenging it is to maneuver throughout the environment, even if it’s ADA-compliant!
Rhythm Works Integrative Dance
Rhythm Works Integrative Dance is a ground-breaking rhythm & dance program designed for those with learning differences and special needs. RWID is committed to helping you meet the needs of all your students. While we focus on working with students who have special needs, we have no doubt you’ll utilize the material in all of your dance, music, special education, physical education and other classes.
Check out our different instructor certification options.
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and never miss a Quick Tip!