How to Conduct an ADA Audit for Your Business
Ensuring your business complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is both a legal requirement and an opportunity to create an inclusive environment for all customers. Conducting an ADA audit can help you identify potential accessibility barriers and avoid costly lawsuits. Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing an ADA audit for your business.
Step 1: Understand ADA Requirements
Before conducting an audit, familiarize yourself with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. These standards outline accessibility requirements for physical spaces and digital properties. Key areas of focus include:
- Parking lot accessibility
- Building entrances and pathways
- Restrooms
- Signage and navigation
- Website accessibility (WCAG compliance)
Step 2: Assemble a Team
Conducting an ADA audit is a multidisciplinary effort. Include team members with expertise in:
- Facilities management (for physical spaces)
- IT or web development (for digital accessibility)
- Legal or compliance teams (for regulatory interpretation)
Consider hiring a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) or ADA consultant for a professional assessment.
Step 3: Conduct a Physical Audit
Evaluate your physical premises for ADA compliance. Focus on the following areas:
Parking Lots:
- Ensure a sufficient number of accessible parking spaces.
- Verify spaces have proper dimensions, signage, and pathways to entrances.
Entrances and Exits:
- Check for ramp availability, handrails, and automatic door openers.
- Ensure doors are wide enough (minimum 32 inches clear width).
Restrooms:
- Confirm appropriate spacing for wheelchair accessibility.
- Ensure grab bars, accessible sinks, and proper signage are installed.
Interior Spaces:
- Measure aisle widths, counter heights, and door thresholds.
- Verify the presence of tactile signage and braille.
Step 4: Evaluate Digital Properties
ADA compliance extends to websites and mobile applications. Use automated tools like WAVE or Axe to identify accessibility gaps. Key areas to review include:
- Alt text for images
- Keyboard navigation
- Screen reader compatibility
- Proper color contrast and font sizes
Step 5: Document Your Findings
Organize your findings in a comprehensive report. Include:
- A checklist of compliant and non-compliant elements
- Photographs and measurements of problem areas
- Recommendations for improvements
This documentation can serve as evidence of your proactive compliance efforts.
Step 6: Develop a Remediation Plan
Based on the audit findings, create a prioritized action plan. Address critical issues first, such as inaccessible entrances or restrooms. For digital properties, implement updates to align with WCAG standards.
Step 7: Train Your Team
Educate your employees on ADA requirements and your remediation efforts. Regular training ensures ongoing compliance and improves customer interactions.
Step 8: Reassess Regularly
ADA compliance is an ongoing process. Schedule periodic audits to ensure your business adapts to evolving standards and maintains accessibility.
Conclusion Conducting an ADA audit demonstrates your commitment to accessibility and inclusion. By proactively identifying and addressing barriers, you can enhance customer satisfaction, avoid legal risks, and build a more inclusive business. For expert assistance, consider hiring a professional consultant to ensure all aspects of your audit are thorough and accurate.