Inclusivity and accessibility are both key priorities in any workplace, and it is imperative that workers have a safe, secure space regardless of any additional needs that they might have. Legal requirements and disability guidelines require that commercial office doors in the US be thirty-six inches by eighty inches. This allows them to be accessible to a range of users and ensures that your space is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other regulations.
If you are looking for durable office doors that will last for years and remain compliant with legal regulations, the range at 27estore should be top of your list‒read on for all you need to know!
Why Does Door Width Matter?
The width of your commercial office doors may seem a small detail, but this is crucial for ensuring that your workplace is up to standard and compliant with all disability and accessibility legislation.
You need to ensure that workers who require mobility aids‒such as canes and wheelchairs‒can safely access the building to do their jobs. Doors that are too narrow could be a breach of the ADA regulations, and this can result in liabilities, penalties, and fines.
Considerations When Choosing Office Doors
In addition to width, there are a number of key factors to take into account when choosing the right doors for your office. Some major priorities include:
Size
As we have discussed, the requirements for office doors are set out by legislation, including the International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), ICC A117.1‒Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, and the Life Safety Code (NFPA 101).
This legislation is in place to ensure that all office spaces install doors that meet the minimum requirements for space and opening. Knowing this information ahead of time could potentially save you a headache down the line!
Type of Door
You will also need to consider the type of door that is the best fit for your office. Do you need extra space? A sliding door can allow you access without losing valuable floor space. Do you prefer light, airy rooms and plenty of access? A French door may be a nice finishing touch.
While we are on the subject‒should office doors open in or out? According to the experts, it is best to opt for inward-swinging doors. This is because these doors offer a higher level of security and are typically a better fit for general health and safety considerations.
Cost
The price of installing office doors is also something you will need to consider, and this is impacted by a range of factors. The material you choose will play a part here; heavy, solid oaks and other woods tend to be on the pricier side but do last for many years and offer excellent soundproofing qualities.
Similarly, glass panes can look great and allow plenty of light into your office, but they may be a little more expensive. When considering cost, don’t forget to include the price of installation if you are not planning a DIY job.
Soundproofing
One often overlooked feature of office doors is how soundproof they are, and this can be important if your company conducts confidential business or needs a quiet space. Again, materials play a major role here, so do your research and make sure you opt for a design that can help create quiet spaces and tick other boxes.
In a Nutshell
Making sure that your commercial office doors are the standard size is essential for keeping your business compliant with crucial legislation. Here at 27estore, we ensure that all doors in our range tick the boxes to keep your business running smoothly and ensuring accessibility for all of your workers!
