ADA Architectural Standards

Requirements

• The Access Board specifies that the architectural guidelines of the ADA concern the technical specifications required to provide access to buildings and facilities for persons with disabilities. ADA architectural guidelines cover the design, construction and alteration of buildings.

Government

• Responsibility for ensuring the architectural guidelines of the ADA are adhered to rests with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ administers architectural aspects of the ADA used in local government facilities, commercial facilities and public places. Responsibility for administering ADA architectural guidelines in transportation facilities is controlled by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Guidelines

• Architectural regulations for the ADA include the design and construction of accessible patient bedrooms in medical facilities and kitchen access in social services centers. In buildings where access for persons with disabilities supersedes those required by the ADA, the architectural guidelines of the ADA are not applicable.