At Pressford Shutters, we pride ourselves on offering top-quality automatic doors in Ireland. We understand that providing accessibility is not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about ensuring every individual feels welcomed and valued when they enter your premises. Trust in our expertise to deliver both functionality and inclusivity.
It’s a common misconception that only a small fraction of the population faces mobility challenges. In reality, one in every twenty individuals has a disability that affects their traditional mobility.
Consequences of No Adjustments
In the UK, the Equality Act 2010, which replaced the 1995 Disability Discrimination Act, mandates employers, businesses, local councils, and educational institutions to actively work towards eliminating barriers faced by individuals with disabilities.
This encompasses not just policies and practices but also addresses physical aspects of buildings that might pose challenges, especially for those using wheelchairs or with other disabilities.
The primary areas of concern usually revolve around stairs, pathways, restrooms, and building entrances or exits. Some of the recommended modifications include the installation of ramps, stair lifts, widening of doorways, and the incorporation of automatic doors, which we at Pressford Shutters specialise in.
But what does “reasonable adjustments” entail?
It implies that measures should be undertaken to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not at a significant disadvantage compared to those without disabilities. The feasibility of these adjustments is determined by various factors, including the cost implications for the business, the practicality of the changes, potential disruptions, and the overall effectiveness of the modifications.
For instance, if modifying a narrow historic building to accommodate wheelchair users would be so costly that it jeopardises the business’s operations, such adjustments might not be deemed reasonable.
On the other hand, a well-established business refusing to add a simple access ramp without valid reasons could be viewed as unlawful discrimination. The key is to approach the situation with common sense.
Should a person with a disability find it challenging to access your premises due to lack of proper facilities, it is considered unlawful discrimination under the Equality Act.
Such individuals have the right to request the necessary modifications from the business or institution. If these requests are denied, they can pursue a discrimination claim as per the provisions of the Equality Act.
What’s the Optimal Door Choice for Disabled Access in Ireland?
While manual sliding doors offer a more accessible option than traditional hinged doors, the pinnacle of accessibility is achieved with automatic doors in Ireland. These doors can be activated through various mechanisms, such as motion sensors, infrared detectors, pressure plates, or conveniently placed push buttons for wheelchair users.
Upon activation, automatic doors in Ireland stay open for a sufficient duration, facilitating easy passage for those with mobility challenges. It’s advisable for doors tailored for wheelchair access to have a width of at least 85cm or 33.5″, slightly broader than standard doors, ensuring smoother access.
Sliding automatic doors stand out as the most suitable entry mode for disabled individuals. They not only grant ample space for wheelchairs but also offer enhanced safety compared to swing doors.
Beyond accessibility, sliding automatic doors in Ireland present numerous advantages:
- Space-efficient
- Boost security
- Exude a modern aesthetic
- Promote hygiene by eliminating the need for physical contact
However, we acknowledge that structural limitations of certain buildings might prevent the installation of sliding doors.
In such scenarios, while sliding doors necessitate comprehensive setup, most existing doors can be swiftly transformed into automated swing doors with touchpad activation.
When contemplating the installation of an automatic door system tailored for disabled access, several factors come into play.
Our expert team at Pressford Shutters evaluates:
- The positioning of push pads, ensuring they’re at a height accessible to individuals with disabilities, typically about one meter off the ground.
- The alignment of entrance mats or pressure pads with the floor to prevent wheel snags or tripping hazards.
- The door’s open duration post-activation, ensuring ample time for disabled individuals to enter seamlessly.
- The door width’s adequacy for wheelchair passage, with double doors or telescopic systems being potential solutions in certain scenarios.
- The presence of safety markings on transparent glass doors to avert collisions.
- The door’s functionality during emergencies, ensuring unobstructed building evacuation.
Unlock the Future of Accessibility with Pressford’s Automatic Doors in Ireland
Choosing to invest in automatic doors in Ireland from Pressford’s Shutters goes beyond a mere transaction; it symbolises a profound dedication to inclusivity, contemporary design, and utmost safety.
At Pressford’s, we pride ourselves on crafting doors that epitomize the pinnacle of quality and cutting-edge innovation. Each door is meticulously designed to offer a smooth and hassle-free entry and exit experience, catering especially to those facing mobility challenges.
But the advantages of our doors don’t stop at their operational excellence. Aesthetically, they add a touch of modern elegance to your establishment, seamlessly blending with various architectural styles while elevating the overall visual appeal. Moreover, our doors are fortified with advanced security features, ensuring that while they welcome legitimate visitors with open arms, any potential threats are kept at bay.
With Pressford’s Shutters, you’re not merely acquiring a state-of-the-art door system. You’re making a statement, signaling that your establishment is forward-thinking, prioritises the comfort and safety of its visitors, and is in tune with the evolving needs of the modern world. By making this investment, you’re paving the way for a future where barriers are minimized, and every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, is greeted with dignity and grace.
So, don’t just follow the trend; set the standard. Opt for Pressford’s Shutters and let your establishment be a beacon of accessibility, safety, and sophistication in today’s dynamic landscape.