Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) isn’t just about checking legal boxes. It’s about making intentional design choices that promote accessibility for all. That includes your storage systems. Partnering with experts who understand both compliance and storage efficiency can help create environments where every individual can access what they need with dignity and independence.
Versatility, flexibility, and durability are always key when choosing storage. But creating a truly accessible space means going a step further — making sure that everyone, whether they’re a museum curator or warehouse worker, can reach what they need without weaving through a maze.
ADA-compliant storage brings form and function together. It helps you save space and boost efficiency while building an environment where everyone can move freely, access materials easily, and feel confident doing their job without hurdles or headaches.
What are ADA Storage Solutions?
ADA storage solutions are shelving, cabinets, lockers, and other storage systems designed for accessibility. Following ADA design guidelines, these systems:
- Let individuals store and retrieve items independently.
- Remove physical barriers that might otherwise prevent participation in work, school, or daily life.
- Create an empowering environment for those with limited mobility, visual impairments, or other conditions.
By meeting these criteria, ADA storage solutions help create more inclusive environments — places where everyone can reach, open, and use storage without added stress. That could mean accessible filing cabinets and lockers in schools, shelving in libraries and retail spaces, or adaptive storage in workstations and offices.
For example, an ADA-compliant high-density mobile storage system might include features like lower shelving, wider aisles for wheelchair access, easy-to-grip handles, and enough space for comfortable navigation.
There are three common types of compact mobile shelving: manual, mechanical assist, and powered. Of the three, powered systems are typically the most accessible. They’re easier to operate, especially for individuals with limited mobility, and they often come with programmable settings and built-in safety features to further support ADA compliance.
ADA-compliant storage doesn’t force you to choose between capacity and accessibility. With the right planning (and guidance from Patterson Pope’s seasoned experts), you can achieve both. Up next: Key design considerations your storage system needs to meet to support ADA compliance.
Key Considerations for ADA-Compliant Storage (And How Patterson Pope Can Help)
Designing with ADA-compliant storage in mind opens the door to more thoughtful, inclusive spaces. When done right, it not only improves accessibility but also streamlines workflow and helps make the most of your available space.
Of course, accessibility doesn’t happen by accident. Storage systems need to meet specific ADA requirements to ensure that both public and private environments are functional for everyone. In this section, we’ll walk through the key factors to consider when building storage with compliance — and real people — in mind.
Aisle Width & Space Clearance
The ADA requires 36” minimum continuous aisle width and 60” turnaround spaces in certain areas. An optimal floor layout also incorporates space in front of a storage system for a wheelchair.
Balancing accessibility with storage capacity can be tricky, but mobile high-density shelving paired with custom aisle planning makes it easier. Systems like Spacesaver Powered Systems can be configured for flexible, ADA-friendly layouts. Their programmable aisle feature allows users to lock a carriage in place, creating a stationary platform with accessible aisles on either side.
Storage Height & Reach Range
ADA reach range guidelines recommend that shelving be positioned between 15 and 48 inches off the floor. Anything higher could require step stools or assistance, both of which can limit independence and accessibility.
Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice storage flexibility to stay within reach. With a variety of shelving and cabinet options, you can customize storage systems to meet ADA height requirements while supporting a wide range of users and applications:
- Static Shelving & Mobile Shelving: Durable, versatile, and easy to accessorize, these shelving solutions let you tailor shelving height and configuration to the needs of your team and space.
- Modular Casework: Easily reconfigured and built to last, modular casework solutions make it simple to design a setup that's both accessible and efficient.
- Rotomat Office Carousels: Hanel’s automated systems bring materials directly to the user, eliminating the need to reach or bend. Ideal for secure, ADA-compliant access in office settings.
Track & Ramp Considerations
In addition to considering aisle widths and access heights, ADA-compliant designs must ensure smooth transitions between floors and storage areas. Without proper storage planning, you could run into unintended barriers for wheelchairs, carts, or mobility aids.
To stay compliant, systems with level changes greater than ½ inch require proper ramping. That’s where design foresight — and the right product — makes all the difference.
Wheelhouse Low-Profile Mobile Systems are a great option. These systems offer the strength and flexibility of traditional rack and rail shelving but with flush-floor rail integration to reduce obstructions. The result? A smoother, safer access point that supports ADA compliance without sacrificing capacity or mobility.
Accessible Employee Storage
ADA compliance isn’t limited to front-facing areas. It applies to every part of your facility, including the spaces where employees store their personal belongings. That means restrooms, parking areas, break rooms, and even lockers should meet accessibility standards.
When designing employee or guest storage, consider smart lockers. They offer features that enhance both convenience and compliance, such as:
- Easy access: Open smart lockers with a fob, smartphone, badge, or code — no pinching, twisting, or gripping required.
- Touchless operation: Automatically opens the correct locker for the user, minimizing physical contact.
- Customizable interiors: Adjustable hooks, shelves, and layouts to accommodate a wide range of users.
An inclusive locker setup not only meets ADA requirements but creates a better everyday experience for everyone on your team.
Storage Accessibility for All
We get it — not everyone geeks out over storage like we do. But when it comes to ADA-compliant storage, it’s not just about following the rules. It’s about designing spaces that are accessible, intuitive, and inclusive. And that’s something everyone can get behind.
With solutions like high-density mobile shelving, adjustable shelving, modular casework, and smart locker systems, you don’t have to choose between accessibility and efficiency. You can have both, just like creative types, accountants, and coders can all share a workspace (even if they don’t always speak the same language).
The Patterson Pope team is here to make the complicated stuff simple. We know storage, and we know how to make it work for your space. Whether you’re a facility manager, architect, or administrator, we’ll help you take the guesswork out of ADA compliance. Contact a Patterson Pope representative today to get started.
