Tools of the trade

ADA inspectors and Certified Access Specialist typically use 4 tools at a minimum to perform an ADA inspection:

• Tape Measure

• 24 Inch Smart Level

• Door Pressure Gauge

• Digital Camera

While other tools are sometimes used (especially for expert witness work), the tools listed above are essential for any interior or exterior ADA compliance evaluation.

Tape Measure

A tape measure is the tool that a CASp Inspector carries with them at all times during an evaluation. It is used to verify the dimensions of common accessible elements such as: parking, accessible routes, doors, protruding objects, railing, toilets, lavatories, etc.

24 Inch Smart Level for ADA Inspections

Every accessibility consultant should use a smart level to measure ground surfaces however the length of level used can vary from consultant to consultant. Our CASp Inspectors at Proactive Access LLC only use 24 inch smart levels manufactured by Stabila. The reason that a 24 inch level is appropriate for disability access evaluations is because the width of a typical adult wheelchair is approximately 24 inches. Using a level that closely matches the width of a wheelchair allows an accessibility inspector to measure the local variation of the ground surface slope as a wheelchair user would experience it. If a longer 48 inch level were to be used during an ADA inspection, non-compliant variations in the ground surface slope may be missed during the evaluation. We only use Stabila levels because the company is a leader in precision measurements and their digital levels allow our CASp inspectors to easily calibrate the instrument before each use.

Pro-Tip: Many contractors and paving companies use 4 foot and 8 foot levels when pouring concrete or preforming asphalt work. If the ground surfaces in parking lots and accessible routes are being improved, we recommend verifying the work with a 24 inch level. If you need assistance with a construction review, Proactive Access LLC offers hourly consulting. Click here for a free consultation.

Door Pressure Gauge

ADA inspectors use door pressure gauges for a number of applications. They are used to measure the force needed to open doors and any operable part such as: faucet and dispenser controls.

Digital Camera

The use of digital cameras or iPhone cameras in our case allows our Certified Access Specialists to document our findings. Simply taking photographs of non-accessible features is not good enough to properly document a CASp Report. Photos should be taken at angles to reliably document accurate dimensions. When ground surface findings are being photographed, at least one identifiable surrounding feature should be in the frame so that the client can easily locate the subject area.

Other Tools Used by a Certified Access Specialist

Depending on the application and scope of work, a disability access consultant may use instruments to attain very precise force and height measurements. In the past, our experienced CASp experts have used calipers and door threshold gauges for legal support. No matter what the application is, our expert staff have the proper tools to provide our clients with top quality service. For a free consultation contact one our our experienced consultants today!