Removing Existing Barriers in Public Buildings

What is the requirement regarding removing existing barriers in public buildings when it is readily achievable? What is a Limited Use/Limited Application Elevator (LULA) and where are they commonly found?

The requirement of removing existing barriers when readily achievable in public buildings, such as adding braille markings to elevator buttons, is mandated by the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design. A Limited Use/Limited Application Elevator (LULA) is a type of elevator that is smaller and moves more slowly than a typical passenger elevator found in large commercial structures. LULAs are commonly found in churches, schools, libraries, and small businesses. They are made for limited capacity, normally carrying passengers up one or two storeys.

Understanding the Requirement for Removing Barriers in Public Buildings

Removing existing barriers when readily achievable in public buildings is a vital aspect of ensuring accessibility for all individuals. This requirement, specified in the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design, aims to make public buildings more inclusive and accessible to people with disabilities. One common example of this requirement is adding braille markings to elevator buttons, enabling visually impaired individuals to navigate the building independently.

Exploring Limited Use/Limited Application Elevators (LULA)

LULAs, or Limited Use/Limited Application Elevators, serve a specific purpose in buildings where a full-size passenger elevator is not practical or necessary. These elevators are smaller in size and operate at a slower speed compared to regular elevators, making them suitable for buildings with limited space or lower capacity needs. Commonly found in churches, schools, libraries, and small businesses, LULAs provide vertical transportation for passengers traveling short distances within the building.

In addition to their compact size and slower speed, LULAs are designed for limited capacity and are typically installed in buildings with one or two storeys. Due to their specific application, LULAs are not meant to replace full-size passenger elevators but offer a cost-effective solution for smaller buildings that require vertical transportation.

To enhance accessibility in existing structures, LULAs can also be installed as part of renovations or alterations to meet the requirements of the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design. By incorporating LULAs into building design and construction, architects and building owners can improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities and ensure compliance with accessibility regulations.