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What does it do?
PathMinder products comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Our approach is to offer systems where every single lane meets ADA. That's real universal accessibility.
All of our products comply with the ADA guidelines at a 36" lane width. Some of our optical turnstiles even meet ADA standards when spaced 32" apart.
How does it work?
Or, more to the point, how doesn't it work? Some manufacturers try to kludge together installations that meet ADA, but don't promote the idea of universal accessibility.
There are three common approaches to ADA compliance:
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Non-accessible lanes + accessible swing gate
Some companies in the industry sell turnstiles (particularly barrier models) that do not make any effort to comply with ADA regulations themselves. Such lanes are typically 20"-22" wide, which feels uncomfortably tight. ADA accessibility concerns are addressed with a separate swing gate, which offers no tailgate security and, if operated manually, can be quite inconvenient to use for persons with limited dexterity. Furthermore, swing gates detract from an open look in a high-profile entrance.
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Non-accessible lanes + special accessible lane
Some manufacturers promote lanes of varying widths to meet ADA regulations. In a typical scenario, there would be several 24" lanes and a single 36" wide ADA-compliant lane adjacent to a guard desk. This approach doesn't offer universal accessibility: people in wheelchairs are forced to use a special lane, reinforcing a concept of "being different". Having one lane much wider than the others looks a little odd, to boot.
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Universal accessibility (the PathMinder approach)
PathMinder prefers an egalitarian approach that balances security and accessibility: spacing all lanes at 32". PathMinder offers several unique turnstile shapes that allow ADA compliance at 32", whereas competitors' designs are typically spaced 36" apart to comply with the ADA regulations.
The 32" lane spacing offers better protection against side-by-side passages than 36" lanes, yet offers plenty of clearance for wheelchairs, scooters, and people with guide dogs. This approach means that anyone can use any lane; all employees have the same options. Plus, a uniform width contributes to the overall look of the entrance--consistent spacing makes for a tidy, elegant lobby.
While we always recommend uniform 32" spacing, choice is good too. PathMinder turnstiles can be placed anywhere from 20" to 48" apart.
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Why should I consider it for my site?
Everyone should be able to enter your site any way they please; no person should be limited to using a certain entrance.
What models offer it?
All PathMinder products comply with ADA regulations. All PathMinder doorway tailgate sensors meet ADA when spaced 32" apart, as do our non-barrier optical turnstiles.
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