ADA Compliance for Vehicle Barriers: What Architects and Engineers Need to Know 

Where ADA does affect Delta products

The biggest impact ADA has on our products is how they are installed. Most Delta products can be incorporated into an ADA-compliant site, but the overall site layout needs to be considered. The areas that usually require the most attention include:

• Pedestrian access
• Bollard spacing
• Gates
• Control locations
• Sidewalks and ramps

Pedestrian Access

Every project should maintain an accessible route for pedestrians. This doesn’t necessarily mean pedestrians have to walk through the vehicle barrier. In many cases, they are directed to a separate sidewalk or pedestrian gate. The important thing is making sure people using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices have a safe and accessible path.

Bollard Spacing

This is probably one of the most common questions we receive. Security consultants usually want the spacing as tight as possible to prevent unauthorized vehicle access. Architects, on the other hand, are looking at pedestrian traffic and accessibility. The final layout has to satisfy both requirements. In many applications, an accessible pedestrian opening is incorporated into the design while the remaining bollards maintain the required vehicle protection.

Gates

Vehicle gates often create another ADA consideration. If a sliding or swing gate crosses a sidewalk, there should be a safe and accessible way for pedestrians to pass. Every project is a little different, so these items should be reviewed during the design phase. This may include:
• A separate pedestrian gate
• An alternate accessible route
• Safety sensors
• Accessible controls

Access Control Devices

Another item that is sometimes overlooked is the location of controls. Card readers, intercoms, push buttons, and emergency stop stations should all be mounted where they can be reached by someone using a wheelchair. Planning these locations early helps avoid changes during installation.

Surface Conditions

ADA isn’t just about the barrier itself. The surrounding sidewalk is just as important. Steel cover plates, expansion joints, drainage grates, and concrete transitions should not create trip hazards or make it difficult for wheelchairs to cross. Even a properly designed barrier can become an accessibility issue if the surrounding surface isn’t considered.

Foundation Design

Crash-rated barriers require substantial foundations. Sometimes those foundations interfere with sidewalks or ADA ramps. When that happens, it’s much easier to make adjustments during the design phase than after construction has started. Coordination between the architect, civil engineer, structural engineer, and security consultant is critical.

Common Questions We Receive

• Can a wheelchair get through these bollards?
• Do I need a separate pedestrian gate?
• How wide should the pedestrian opening be?
• Where should I mount the card reader?
• Will this installation still meet ADA requirements?

These are all good questions, and they are usually answered by looking at the overall site design rather than the barrier alone.

Final Thoughts

From an engineering standpoint, the best ADA solutions are usually the ones that are planned from the beginning of the project. Trying to add accessibility after the barrier layout has already been completed often results in unnecessary redesigns, additional costs, and project delays. Early coordination between the owner, architect, security consultant, and manufacturer helps to ensure the project meets both security and accessibility requirements.