Optimizing Your Sports Facilities for People with Disabilities

Since the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the lives of people with disabilities or mobility issues has improved dramatically by helping to make public places more accessible and hospitable. Today Sports Facilities Management wants to help you to create a more accessible business environment by offering some tips to improve your sports facilities accessibility for people with disabilities. This list is not exhaustive and it is important to remember providing accessibility is an ongoing process, not a single event.

Parking at Your Sports Facilities

• To decide how many parking spots you should designate for people with disabilities is generally based on the rule of 1 accessible spot per 25 total spaces.
• Make sure your accessible space is clearly designated with an accessibility sign.
• Designate the closest parking spot to your wheelchair accessible entrance, and be free from excessive sloping.
• Provide extra space on both sides of the accessible parking spot to allow individuals with disabilities plenty of room to exit and enter their vehicle.
• Provide a flat, stable, stair-free accessible route leading to your sports facilities entrance.

Accessible Entrances

• Installation of wheelchair accessible ramps is key to creating more accessible entrances at your sports facilities. When installing ramps be sure to keep the slope as shallow as possible and at least 36 inches wide.
• If your building has multiple entrances only one door needs to be accessible, but make sure that there is clear signage directing visitors from non-accessible entrances to the accessible entrance.
• Pay attention to door technology. Level and loop handles are the easiest type for anyone to use and are generally a good choice for accessible entrances. Installation of an automatic door button is a rather expensive upgrade, but is the ideal solution for your sports facilities.

Additional Amenities

• If your sports facility has more than one level it can be a good idea to offer elevator access.
• Accessible locker room features such as room to maneuver in and out of showers
• Accessible washrooms with grab bars and raised toilets. Also, mid-height sinks and light switches can be much more convenient. Make certain wastebaskets and other moveable objects do not obstruct clear spaces next to the doors.
• Cover cords, extension cables, and other hoses and wires with a cord cover to allow safe passage over any obstructions.

Interested in Making Your Sports Facilities Accessible?

Contact Sports Facilities Management for more information. Our experts are well-versed in the requirements set by the ADA and how to make your sports facilities more accessible. We have the resources to improve management, planning, and funding of any potential sports complex. Call us today to speak with one of our expert representatives to learn how we can improve your business.