2016 ADA CHECKLIST FOR POLLING PLACES

Lifts and Elevators

If the voting area is not on the same level as the entrance, there must be an independently operable elevator or lift to provide an accessible route to individuals with disabilities. The door into the elevator or lift and the space within must be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. All controls should be operable without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting and should be no higher than 48 inches. Chair or seated lifts found on staircases do not comply with the 2010 Standards as they are not suited for many voters with disabilities, including people who use wheelchairs.

Lift and elevator requirements are in Section H and I of the 2016 Checklist found in Part 3 of this document.

Solutions for Accessibility: Problems Involving Lifts and Elevators

Problem One: The elevator or lift to the voting area requires a key to be inserted before the elevator or lift is operational.

Solution: Relocate the voting area to avoid use of the elevator or lift. Otherwise, leave the key in the elevator or lift for the entire time the polling place is open, or station a volunteer, who has been trained in its operation, to operate the elevator or lift while the polling place is open.