ADA Business Brief: No Coat Hook = ADA Violation

PORT RICHEY, Fla. - Jan. 11, 2014 - PRLog -- One of the most common violations that I see nationwide is either NO coat hook in an ADA "compliant" accessible stall, or a coat hook that is mounted way too HIGH -  outside of the allowable reach ranges.  Yes, this can be a reason for an ADA-related law suit.  This is also a common violation that is cited by the Department of Justice in many Settlement Agreements.

When considering where to mount the coat hook, the requirement for an unobstructed forward approach is 48-inches.  However don't forget that sometimes due to the configuration of the ADA stall, there is only a side approach and not a forward approach. And if a customer's coat is quite large and bulky, then in my professional opinion you may have an obstructed forward approach or an obstructed side approach.

We also must keep in mind that with the implementation of the 2010 ADA, the side reach range was reduced from 54-inches down to 48-inches.  So technically speaking, there are now probably thousands if not millions of coat hooks in accessible stalls that are too high to comply with current side reach ranges.

To simplify matters, I instruct all of my clients to mount the coat hook at 44-inches. This allows for forward and side approach (obstructed or unobstructed) and complies with the new, 2010 ADA reach ranges for adults and children ages 9 through 12.

Do you know someone who owns a hotel, restaurant, or other business or place of public accommodation?  Please help pass this information along.

Please contact Nick Sasso should you desire a complete ADA audit, or have questions with regard to expert witness services.  All calls remain confidential.