Opening doors to the public for any new business is a significant milestone. However, before you cut the red tape, you need to ensure that your business complies with the law.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted to ensure businesses do not discriminate against customers or employees based on their disability. If your business is found to be in violation, it could be costly. You may lose customers, or your brand may suffer, on top of the penalties that are likely to be imposed by regulatory bodies.
Does your business need to be ADA compliant?
Ideally, your business should be all-inclusive to everyone despite their disability. However, to avoid ambiguity, the law is clear on employers that should comply. For example, does your business have 15 or more employees working more than 20 weeks in a given year? Is it open to the public? Then you need to ensure that you comply with ADA requirements.
Complying with ADA requirements
An excellent place to start is making your business accessible to everyone. You may have to make some structural changes and include features like ramps or proper signage within the physical premises of your business. Every aspect of your business, including the website, should be accessible to even those living with disabilities.
You are also required to provide a work environment free from discrimination. Your company policies should be geared towards equality. For any employee with a disability, you are supposed to provide them with a reasonable accommodation that will enable them to continue performing their duties. Training your employee on anti-discrimination practices will also go a long way.
Protecting your business
ADA compliance is crucial for your business. However, if you are just getting started, you may not have all the information you need to be fully compliant. Therefore, it is important to learn more about what is expected of you to safeguard your business interests and ensure that you are on the right side of the law.