Friday, October 3, 2008

Commercial Vertical Wheelchair Lifts and the ADA

It is not only the law, but it is also very important that you make sure your business is handicapped accessible. This ensures that everyone no matter what their physical condition is can have full access to your establishment. Installing a wheelchair lift is an excellent way to ensure that your business is ADA compliant in a cost effective manner.

Wheelchair lifts, or vertical platform lifts as they are usually referred to, allow an easy way to ensure someone using a mobility scooter or wheelchair is able to access areas that differ in elevation.

One of the major advantages of using this type of lift, which is very similar to an elevator, is that there is usually very little home or business modification needed to install these lifts. The biggest concern is usually a secure base, which can be made out of wood or concrete.

These lifts have a small platform that can be raised vertically between two areas. They are commonly used outdoors on the front steps, so are frequently called porch lifts, but they can also be used indoors. There are also portable lifts available that are great for churches and schools. These lifts can be quickly moved, set up, and stored.

Making sure that everyone has the same opportunity to use your business is important for several reasons. Installing a traditional elevator or building a ramp can be very expensive and can take a long time to complete. This is one of the reasons that wheelchair lifts are so popular.