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In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law to ensure accessibility and equity for all Americans. While this law was primarily targeted toward employment and anti-discriminatory protections, it also provides a wide array of additional standards that businesses must follow – including your flooring and matting.
Fortunately, it’s not difficult to maintain floor and matting compliance throughout your facility. Let’s take a look at what goes into an ADA compliant floor mat and what you need to keep in mind to manage a safe, productive, and accessible building.
ADA Compliant Floor Mats
The ADA requires both commercial and public buildings to meet specific standards and codes to remain compliant. There are several categories involving ADA mats, ranging from bathrooms to ramps. ADA requirements for ground and floor surfaces consider several variables when it comes to safe matting, including:
- Change in level
- Mat and carpet pile thickness
- Level of slip resistance
By following ADA mat standards closely, you greatly increase the amount of safety and accessibility in your facility while maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties.
ADA Standards for Mat Safety
Section 4.5 of the ADA deals explicitly with Ground & Floor Surfaces. These standards are designed to maximize accessibility for all Americans and eliminate the risk of injury. While this is good advice to follow, it is also the law. Commercial and public buildings must follow these standards to remain ADA compliant.
Section 4.5.1: Overview
The ground and floor surfaces along accessible routes and in accessible rooms and spaces – including floors, walks, ramps, stairs, and curb ramps, should be stable, firm, and slip-resistant.
Section 4.5.2: Changes in Level
- Changes in level up to 1/4 in (6 mm) may be vertical and without edge treatment.
- Changes in level between 1/4 in and 1/2 inch shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 2:1.
- Changes in level greater than 1/2 in (13 mm) shall be accomplished by means of a ramp.
Section 4.5.3: Carpet and Carpet Tile
If carpet or carpet tile is used on a ground or floor surface, then it shall be securely attached; have a firm cushion, pad, or backing, or no cushion or pad; and have a level loop, textured loop, level cut pile, or level cut/uncut pile texture. The maximum pile thickness shall be 1/2 inch.
Exposed edges of carpet shall be fastened to floor surfaces and have trim along the entire length of the exposed edge. Carpet edge trim shall comply with 4.5.2.
ADA Mat Recommendations: Slip Resistance & Tripping Hazards
It is critical that all mats be placed correctly so that they do not present a tripping hazard. Rippled or torn mats should be removed from service immediately. Keep in mind that carpet remnants, unbeveled or unbacked matting, rippled vinyl-backed mats, and scatter rugs do not meet the requirements of the ADA and should be removed.
In addition to the requirements for compliance, the ADA also recommends a value of 0.60 for the static coefficient of friction, which is a certified accepted measurement standard for slip resistance.
While adherence to standards makes a safer workplace for everyone, the main goal of the ADA is accessibility. By properly following all ADA building standards – including the use of ADA-compliant floor mats throughout your facility, you make it easier for employees and visitors to safely navigate your building.
Find the Right ADA-Certified Matting Solution for You
Non-compliant mats won’t just fail an inspection, they also put you, your workers, and your visitors at risk. That’s why you need a trusted matting partner like Durable to ensure the safety and accessibility of your building. As established industry experts, we produce high-quality floor and matting solutions that not only meet the rules and regulations for building safety – but look great too.
If you’re looking for a trusted matting partner that prioritizes quality and service, give us a call at 1(800) 537-1603 or contact us online to find the right ADA-compliant matting solution for your home or business.
