The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted on July 26, 1990, provides
comprehensive civil rights to individuals with disabilities.
Failure to provide adequate barrier-free access in state and local government
projects, commercial facilities, and in public accommodations by private
entities can result in legal action with the possibility of significant
fines.
The ADA law, originally based on ANSI A117.1-1980, identifies numerous
elements of barrier-free facility design, including specific requirements for
bathtubs and shower stalls.
Beyond the requirements of the ADA law, fair housing addresses the
barrier-free needs of individuals in residential facilities for a much larger
cross-section of the general population, which may not fall under the direct
jurisdiction of the ADA law.
Sound confusing? It is! Factors such as the type of facility, the method of
funding, and the specifics of ownership can play a major role in defining the
requirements needed to remain compliant.
But, there is hope. Helpful, easy-to-read information relating to both the
ADA and fair housing issues are just a letter, phone call, or website visit
away.
For Information on Issues Related to FAIR HOUSING, contact:
US Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th Street, S.W.
Washington, DC 20410
Telephone: 202 / 708 - 1455
Website: www.hud.gov/offices/fheo
For Information on Issues Related to ADA, contact:
The Access Board
1331 F Street, NW
Suite 1000
Washington, DC 20004
Telephone: 800 / 872 - 2253 or 202 / 272 - 5449
Website: www.access-board.gov
Aker offers a complete series of combination tub/shower and shower stalls
designed to comply with ADA, Fair Housing, and private residential barrier-free
applications. We hope the listed information will assist you in resolving any
questions regarding the appropriate model for your installation
needs.