The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1992 may raise questions regarding the use of mats in public places, where entrances and exits must be kept free of hazards.
We would like to present you with some facts regarding Professional Mat Service and how our mats comply with the requirements set by the ADA.
Americans with Disabilities Act
Section 4.5.1
“Ground and floor surfaces along accessible routes and in accessible rooms and spaces including floors, walks, stairs…”
Section 4.5.2
“…Changes in level between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1:2…”
Section 4.5.3
“…Maximum pile thickness (height) shall be 1/2 inch…”
Section 4.5.3
“If carpet or carpet tile is used on a ground or floor surface, then it shall be securely attached…Exposed edges of carpet shall be fastened to floor surfaces and have trim along the entire length of the exposed edge.”
FACT 1: Hughes Customat Mats’ Professional Mat Service provides mats that have a stable, firm, skid-resistant surface.
By design, our mats meet the change in level, pile height and Static Coefficient of Friction requirements of the ADA. Our mats help collect and contain the dirt, grit, and moisture that could otherwise contribute to slip and fall accidents.
FACT 2: Rental Mats are not carpets
Section 4.5.3 of the ADA may raise questions regarding the use of rental mats in public access areas. We would like to give you the facts surrounding this topic.
It is the opinion of the former Assistant Attorney General W. Lee Rawls, United States Department of Justice, that “Rental mats are not considered carpeting, and therefore, are not subject to the requirements” of ADA Section 4.5.3.
Attorneys for the leading textile rental association, the Textile Rental Service Association, also conclude that it is not necessary to permanently affix rental mats to a floor surface.
There are many purchased mats that do not meet the requirements of the ADA, and it is recommended that these be removed:
- Carpet Remnants
- Unbeveled or unbacked matting
- Ripped vinyl-backed mats
- Scatter rugs
*Please be aware of “self-styled” ADA experts, especially those urging you to remove rental mats. Remember, the ADA does not state that rental mats must be removed.
FACT 3: Rental mats, when properly placed and maintained, enhance accessibility.
The former Assistant Attorney General also states that “If moveable floor mats impeded access for people with disabilities, they may need to be moved or removed.”
It is important that all mats be placed correctly so that they do not create a trip hazard. Our professional mat service program helps ensure the correct placement of your mats.
Please remove rippled or torn mats and report them to our route personnel.
Many of our mats have been certified slip-resistant by the National Floor Safety Institute.