The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 provided guidelines to prevent discrimination against people with mental or physical disabilities. Signed into law by President George H.W. Bush, the law extended protections of the 1964 Civil Rights Act to the handicapped. The scope of the law is broad, covering everything from being hired or fired and to the number and width of parking spaces in public parking areas.
Today we will discuss parking spaces in public parking areas….It is very important to note that you cannot just throw up a few handicap parking signs here and there, and call it a day.
1) Buying the right sign: What state are you posting this handicap sign? I ask because certain states, like Ohio, California, Texas, Michigan and more have specific handicap parking sign colors and legends that are required or recommended by the state guidelines. Every state is different so be sure to check your states guidelines for more specific information.
2) Buying the right sign size: Handicap signs usually are available in two popular sizes, 18″x12″ and 24″x18″. Note: You will also see 18″ or 24″ square signs. Choose the size that best fits your needs. 18″x12″ usually works just fine for parking spots.
3) Buying the right sign material: Handicap signs at Emedco are available in aluminum, steel, and polyethylene. See my blog on traffic sign and parking sign material here for more information.
4) Having the right amount of handicap parking spaces: Now that you have your handicap sign picked out you will need to consider how many you need. All parking lots are required to have at least one van accessible parking space. If the parking lot can hold between 26 to 50 cars, the lot must have two spaces–one car and one van. The formula adds an additional standard space at 76+, 101+, 151+, 201+ and 301+. At 401 spaces, the lot is required to have seven car and two van spaces. If the lot has more than 501 spaces, ADA regulations state that 2 percent of the lot must be handicapped accessible. Parking lots with a capacity of 1,001 or more cars are required to have 20 cars and add one additional spot for every additional 100 spaces. REF.
See the largest selection of handicap parking signs and traffic signs at www.emedco.com
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