U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division Disability Rights Section |
Americans with Disabilities Act
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Security
Accessible cells do not compromise the security of prison personnel. In fact, having accessible cells increases security because they allow inmates with mobility disabilities to function independently, minimizing the need for assistance from guards.
Basic Features
Inmates with disabilities - including those who use wheelchairs - need to be able to enter their cells and move around inside them, using the cells’ features without assistance. What makes this possible? Careful planning and design will incorporate elements such as a wider entrance door, adequate clear floor space, appropriate placement and models of fixtures and furniture, and grab bars.
Location or Dispersion of Cells
Dispersing accessible cells throughout a facility ensures that inmates with disabilities are able to be housed with inmates of the same classification levels. Generally, inmates with disabilities who are not ill do not need to be housed in a medical ward.
Furniture and Cell Features
Accessible cells need to contain the same features as other cells for inmates housed at the same classification level. For instance, where other cells contain writing desks, accessible writing desks are needed in accessible cells.
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Room Layout and General Features
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Drawing Notes: |
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Note: Some features shown in this document may be inappropriate for cells where inmate suicide is a concern. See the notes for features specifically designed to minimize suicide risk, while providing accessibility for inmates with mobility disabilities. |
Features of Accessible Lavatories and Mirrors
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Drawing Notes: |
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Features of Accessible Furniture
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Drawing Notes: |
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For more information about the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please visit the Department of Justice’s Home Page, www.ada.gov, or call us on the ADA Information Line. 800-514-0301 (voice) 800-514-0383 (TTY) Reproduction is encouraged. |
Febuary 8, 2005