What types of physical barriers to access is a public accommodation required to remove? Why is this important to persons with HIV or AIDS?
Persons with HIV or AIDS may find that they have less strength to open doors, or may tire more easily when walking or climbing stairs. They may use a wheelchair, electric scooter, or other device for mobility purposes. The ADA’s barrier removal requirements address these situations.
The ADA requires that public accommodations remove all physical barriers to access in their existing facilities, where it is readily achievable to do so. “Readily achievable” means “easily accomplishable and able to be carried out without much difficulty or expense.”
Examples of barrier removal may include installing ramps, making curb cuts in sidewalks and entrances, rearranging furniture, widening doors, installing accessible door hardware, and installing grab bars in toilet stalls. The obligation to engage in readily achievable barrier removal is a continuing one.
The ADA requires that all newly constructed places of public accommodation be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. The ADA also requires that all alterations made to existing facilities be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.
User Comments/Questions
Add Comment/Question