Access for Everyone

 

FAQ...

Is there an update of Access for Everyone that reflects the new version of ADAAG that is expected to be approved by the DOJ in late 2008 or early 2009?

If you have the current Access for Everyone, Revised edition 2005, ADAAG requirements are listed as ADAAG:1998, and additional ADAAG requirements (as approved by the Access Board in 2004) are listed as ADAAG:2004.

We are currently preparing a new Access for Everyone, 3rd edition, that will be available shortly after the DOJ formally approves the new ADAAG. Our 3rd edition will include further updates and/or conditions in the DOJ approved new version of ADAAG. The third edition will also feature additional recommendations based on Universal Design. Please check our website for information on our third edition following the DOJ announcement.

How is Access for Everyone different from ADAAG?

ADAAG is the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines, which contains federal regulations for accessibility. Access for Everyone contains information about ADAAG, as well as incorporating recommendations based on Universal Design principles. Access for Everyone puts the ADAAG requirements into easy-to-understand language, differentiates between the requirements of the 1998 ADAAG and the 2004 ADAAG, and adds suggestions about preferred design practices that go above and beyond ADAAG.

How do I order my own copy and what is the cost?

Order your own copy by clicking on "How to Order" in the menu at the left-hand side of your screen. The cost is $35.00 for each book, plus shipping and handling. We now offer the ability to order online, where you can purchase a hard copy, or download a PDF version for only $25.00. If you are in Ames, IA, you may also purchase the book in person at Iowa State University Book Store or Copy Works.

I own a bookstore, and I would like to carry Access for Everyone. Is there a wholesale rate?

Bulk rates can be arranged. Please call 515-294-1014 for more information.

I have impaired vision; is there a version I can load onto my computer for use with my screen reader?

We have a downloadable PDF version of Access for Everyone available on our website. Go to "How to Order" and select "Order Online," then "PDF". We are also working on a CD-ROM version, but it is not yet available. Please see our website for updates.

I have the old Access for Everyone; do I need to purchase the revised version?

Yes! The new version contains much information about the 2004 ADAAG revisions, has additional references to ADAAG, new illustrations, and additional recommendations. Though the Department of Justice has not yet officially adopted the 2004 ADAAG, it is definitely expected to in the future. Designing with the latest standards is not only a good idea, but it may also help avoid costly fines, lawsuits, and renovations later. The new Access for Everyone is also easier to read, is easier to navigate, and is a more standard book size that will fit better on your shelf. And at $35.00, you can't afford not to have this excellent reference at your disposal.

How can Access for Everyone be useful to me?

You can use Access for Everyone in a number of ways. First, it makes a handy reference during the planning and design process. Get your design right from the start by looking up accessibility requirements and dimensions. It can also be used to evaluate building and site plans and drawings. Finally, it can be used as a guide for field inspections of existing buildings and new construction.

What is Universal Design?

"Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design." --Ron Mace, Center for Universal Design. The idea behind Universal Design is to serve as much of the population as possible, no matter their age, height, mobility range, sensory perception range, or learning ability. It goes beyond just designing for wheelchair users. Universal Design can also accommodate a person of short stature, a person who is temporarily on crutches due to an injury, or someone who has limited reach or grasp due to advanced age. By accommodating the needs of a diverse population, better design for all is achieved.

I am a teacher and I would like to use Access for Everyone in my class. Is there an educational supplement to go with the book? How do I get it?

We are in the process of developing one, which we hope to make available next year. When they are ready, you will be able to access or order them from our website. If you have any suggestions or special requests, or materials you have developed on your own that you would like to share with us, please email accessfe@iastate.edu. Also, check our website periodically for updates.

I just ordered Access for Everyone for all of my employees. Are there training materials to help them implement its use? How do I get them?

We are in the process of developing training materials, which we hope to make available next year. When they are ready, you will be able to access or order them from our website. If you have any suggestions or special requests, or materials you have developed on your own that you would like to share with us, please email accessfe@iastate.edu. Also, check our website periodically for updates.

What is the difference between the 1994 and the 1998 ADAAG?

The 1998 ADAAG is almost identical to the 1994 ADAAG (which is the only ADAAG officially adopted by the Department of Justice [DOJ] to date). The only difference is that the 1998 ADAAG adds section 11 (Judicial, Legislative, and Regulatory Facilities), section 12 (Detention and Correctional Facilities), and Building Elements Designed for Children�s Use. These additions were made on January 13, 1998. Though these extra provisions have not yet officially been adopted by the DOJ, they are included in the 2004 ADAAG, and will become effective once the DOJ adopts the 2004 ADAAG. In Access for Everyone, we reference the 1998 ADAAG because it is the most recent printing of the 1994 ADAAG.

The 1994 ADAAG is the only one officially adopted by the Department of Justice (DOJ). When will the 2004 ADAAG be adopted?

For an explanation about when the new ADAAG will be officially adopted see http://www.access-board.gov/ada-aba/standards-update.htm The current projected date is sometime in 2007. What we refer to as the 2004 ADAAG will likely become the 2007 ADAAG when it is officially adopted by the DOJ. (They are identical, just going by a different name.) Therefore, the references to the 2004 ADAAG in Access for Everyone are still valid because they are identical to what is expected to become the 2007 ADAAG. When in doubt about a particular requirement, check with your local building official or call the Access Board at 1-800-872-2253 (TTY 1-800-993-2822). In general, it is advisable to follow anything that increases the level of accessibility, including the newer versions of ADAAG. You'll save yourself and/or your client from costly renovations later on, and possibly avoid lawsuits due to inaccessibility. To design above and beyond minimum requirements is always preferred, and referring to Access for Everyone will help you do just that.

About the authors...

Dr. Arvid E. Osterberg
is a licensed architect and Professor of Architecture at Iowa State University. He has been researching accessibility and safety standards for 34 years.

Donna J. Kain, Ph.D.
is an Assistant Professor of technical and professional discourse in the Department of English at East Carolina University.