Show #347 Airing Sunday, 7/2/06
Most of us don't give a second thought to making a trip to the supermarket or doctor's office, library, or drugstore. But if you have a physical or mental impairment, the neighborhood can look very different.
Think about it. Stepping up over the curb- no problem!! But if you're in a wheelchair, that two inch obstacle might as well be a 10-foot barbed wire fence. And what could be easier than turning a doorknob? But if you have disabling arthritis, the building might just as well put up a "handicapped not welcome" sign!
Federal law recognizes the need to make "reasonable accommodations" for folks with disabilities. The law provides protections for anyone with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity.
Public places, buildings and businesses that invite the public in, must make reasonable efforts to remove barriers to access. Common examples of barriers include:
- Steps and curbs for people in wheelchairs.
- Drinking fountains, and paper towel dispensers in bathrooms, that are too high for people in wheelchairs.
- Regular doorknobs for people with limited hand or wrist motion.
- And exit and entrance signs which can't read by people with vision impairments.
What must a property or business owner do to remove barriers? Each situation is different. They don't have to take steps that are extremely expensive, but they must make reasonable efforts. These may include:
- Installing ramps so you can get your wheelchair into the building.
- Lowering paper towel dispensers and hot air dryers so you can wash your hands in the bathroom.
- Installing grab bars so you can use the toilet stall.
- Adding braille or raised numbers on elevator control buttons so you can operate the elevator.
- Installing flashing light and sound alarms so you will be alerted in case of fire.
Sometimes making architectural or physical changes in a building or business is just too difficult. But there may be more than one way to skin a cat. For example, if a store can't make all of its shelves accessible to customers with disabilities, it may ay least provide for a clerk to get merchandise for you.
For more information about your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, go to www.ada.gov or call 1-800-514-0301. This law is a powerful tool to enhance your life. Use it!
