Automatic doors make hospitals, retail establishments, hotels, airports, malls, and post offices accessible to everyone, including those using wheelchairs and other mobility equipment and tools. Nearly 99% percent of the population prefers them to manual versions. However, the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) does have specific guidelines for automatic door installation, which you can find out more about below.

What Are the ADA Regulations for Automatic Doors?

Width, Threshold, & Maneuvering

At least 60% of the exterior doors in new construction buildings must be wheelchair-accessible according to the ADA. Automatic or other wheelchair-accessible doors need to be present along escape routes and in connected parking lots.

Rooms used by disabled individuals within these buildings must also feature these doors, all of which require at least 32 inches of clear width and thresholds no higher than 0.5 inch. Automatic swinging doors that move toward the individual require a maneuvering clearance of at least 18 inches, while those moving away from the individual need at least 12 inches of clearance.

Closing Speed

Automatic doors should take at least five seconds to open and close for safe entries and exits. Low-energy doors offer slow opening and closing and feature push plates or buttons to open the doors.

Security Barriers & Communication Systems

No bollards, fencing, and other security barriers can block wheelchair-accessible automatic doors. If entry is restricted for any reason, alternative routes must be provided that still allow disabled persons to see their belongings during security checks. Doors featuring two-way communication systems must include options for individuals with speech, visual, and hearing disabilities.

Get the ADA-compliant automatic doors your business or organization needs from Automatic Door Specialists, serving Waipahu, HI, and the neighbor islands for over 30 years. All of their technicians are certified by the American Association of Automated Door Manufacturers (AAADM). Call (808) 678-8880 today to schedule installation, or learn more about their products and services online. Like the Facebook page for additional tips and the latest industry news.