Where drinking fountains are provided, those using them will require the use of wheelchairs and standing persons. This dual access must be on the floor of each facility equipped with drinking fountains, as well as on the exterior grounds and in secure areas of each building where drinking fountains are provided.
Putting in a new water fountain is not as simple as buying and installing one. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires equal access to facilities for people with disabilities, including the use of water fountains and hydration products such as filling machines using wheelchairs.
Questions
What is an ADA accessible fountain?
ADA certified fountains meet the height and dimensional measurements required by law. This addresses the total height of the fountain, spout height, extension from the wall, knee space, front fountain edge, toe clearance, water flow height and clear floor space. ADA drinking fountain dimensions are as follows.
Spout height: no higher than 36 inches from floor to spout
Front edge: must extend 17"-19" from the wall
Knee space: 27 inches from the floor to the bottom of the fountain and 8 inches clearance from the front edge of the fountain to the wall
Toe space: 9" high toe clearance space and 6" to the wall
Clear floor space: 30" x 48" around the unit
Spout flow: minimum height 4 inches, must be within 3 inches of the front edge of the fountain
Can a water dispenser or bottling machine be used as a substitute for an accessible water dispenser?
If a drinking fountain is provided, a water dispenser or bottling machine cannot be used as a new construction, alteration or addition as a replacement for a wheelchair accessible unit or standing unit. Drinking and bottling fountains can be used as a supplement to, or in combination with, a drinking fountain. If a drinking fountain is not provided, even if a water cooler or bottle filler is available, a compliant water dispenser is not required Suppose. Fixed or built-in water coolers and fillers must comply with the operable requirements components, but are not subject to other drinking fountain requirements.
