The Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) inspection is an important process that ensures buildings and facilities in Texas are accessible to people with disabilities.
What are Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS)?
TAS is a set of guidelines that is designed to make buildings, facilities, and public spaces accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. These guidelines are set by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), which is responsible for ensuring that buildings and facilities in Texas meet the required accessibility standards.
What is involved in a TAS Inspection?
The TAS inspection is a thorough examination of a building or facility to determine whether it meets the accessibility standards set by TDLR. The inspection is carried out by a certified TAS inspector, who is trained to identify accessibility barriers and recommend solutions to make the building or facility more accessible.
What does a TAS Inspector review?
During the TAS inspection, the inspector will review various aspects of the building or facility, including entrances, exits, parking lots, and restrooms. The inspector will look for accessibility barriers such as narrow doorways, steep ramps, or lack of handrails. They will also review signage, lighting, and other features that are critical to making a building accessible to people with disabilities.
What happens if there are accessibility barriers?
If the TAS inspector identifies accessibility barriers, they will provide a detailed report to the building owner or manager outlining the issues that need to be addressed. The report will typically include recommendations for how to fix the issues and bring the building into compliance with TAS guidelines.
Is a TAS Inspection a one-time event?
It is important to note that the TAS inspection is not just a one-time event. Building owners and managers are required to have their facilities inspected periodically to ensure ongoing compliance with the TAS guidelines. The frequency of inspections may vary depending on the type of facility and the level of accessibility required.
Who needs a TAS Inspection?
In Texas, TAS inspections are mandatory for all public buildings and facilities. This includes government buildings, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and public transportation systems. Additionally, private businesses that serve the public, such as retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues, are also required to comply with TAS standards.
Conclusion
In summary, the Texas Accessibility Standards inspection is an essential process that helps ensure that buildings and facilities in Texas are accessible to people with disabilities. By identifying accessibility barriers and recommending solutions to fix them, TAS inspections help to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for all Texans.
Jacobs Accessibility Group's staff of Registered Accessibility Specialists provide plan reviews, site inspections, and additional services throughout the State of Texas. To request a quote, please fill out this form. If you need assistance or would prefer to speak to a representative, please call us at (972) 707-3530 or email us at tas@jacobsonline.com