Purchasing Resources for Wheelchair Ramps

Wheelchair Ramps Basics

Wheelchair ramps basics add functional access to business facilities
By J. Stoltzfus, writer/programmer LOCAL CITIZEN With the rise of workplace access and other advocacy in America, more employers and public businesses are keeping in mind that the disabled need access to their sites, and wheelchair ramps provide assurance that everyone is invited into a building or space. Wheelchair ramps can be modular, permanent, or portable wheelchair ramps, or customized for vehicles, such as wheelchair ramps for cars or wheelchair van ramps.

When a facility wants to add a wheelchair ramp or find a solution for access for the disabled, keeping a few things in mind will help maximize the benefit of the purchase. Here are a few things buyers should think about:

1. The Americans with Disabilities Act is a major force for creating access to public buildings for those needing ramps or other access, and wheelchair ramps should be ADA compliant to be effective.

2. Buyers should think about long term issues with wheelchair ramps to determine if the facility should have permanent concrete wheelchair ramps or more portable or modular solutions in case of closure or other changes to the site in the future.

3. Lifts may be a desirable alternative to ramps in tight spaces, as ramps require a wider space to be effective.

Find ADA compliant solutions

Because this regulatory system is so important, it's critical to select options for building wheelchair ramps that are ADA compliant. Specialized companies build ADA compliance into their products to eliminate hassle for the client.
Try:  Get lots of good info on ADA compliant wheelchair ramps including case studies for rail transit at Adaptive Lifts. Businesses of all types can learn about standards for ADA compliant facilities at the U.S. Department of Justice ADA Guide for Small Towns online.

Consider permanent or temporary ramps for wheelchairs

Another issue with wheelchair ramps is how long the site will stand in its present capacity or if ramps are a temporary solution. Knowing about this will help make purchases more efficient.
Try:  Access Solutions deals in permanent ramp building from wood, concrete or composite materials. Find out about other options for temporary or movable modular wheelchair ramps at the Wheelchair Site.

Look for wheelchair ramps or lift solutions to fit your facility

Permanent or portable wheel-chair ramp models are not the only solution available for getting ADA compliant results for your building. Wheelchair lifts are available in different styles for convenient use. Check out online vendor sites for advice on whether a ramp or lift is right for you.
Try:  Look for lift vs. ramp case studies from renowned builder ThyssenKrupp Access online. Get information on wheelchair lift specifics at TheMedSupplyGuide, another online resource.

• Thinking about these issues is good, but for buying wheelchair ramps long-term, a brainstorming session with other staff may give you more of a concrete idea before contacting ADA expert consultants.

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