Frequently Asked Questions

If membership in BluePath does not guarantee that my business will be 100% accessible, then what is the benefit?

Mobility, vision and hearing limitations come in all shapes and sizes. There are any number of other situations that cause a person to need accessible environments and services; therefore, a business cannot be 100% accessible to ALL persons at ALL times.

Your membership tells current and potential customers that you have taken proactive steps to remove known barriers and that you are savvy to other accessibility issues. They will know when they see the BluePath logo on your door or on your website, that you are a business willing to provide them with a user-friendly experience, even if you are not 100% accessible to them at that time. Your commitment to earn their business will likely earn their loyalty in bringing business to you!

If BluePath doesn’t "certify" my business, then why should I be a member?

There are no certifying agencies in the U.S. – not even the Department of Justice! Why not? Accessibility is an ever-changing target with infinite solutions. Consider the diverse nature of disabilities, the variety of architectural modifications, the ease or burden of financial costs; even consider the weather or where the trash bins are placed! It would be impossible to have one set of rules that cover every single accommodation that a person may need in a public space; therefore the law is individualized and regards a specific person in a specific situation in case-by-case scenarios.

There are however, minimum standards set by the ADA, and those are the guidelines used by BluePath and provided in the self-assessment checklist. Your BluePath membership provides a legitimate and professional resource that helps you provide the most accessible and integrated setting possible to your customers.

Why doesn’t BluePath membership prevent future legal claims?

Businesses must be constantly aware of the environment inside and outside of their building. For example, consider a department store that typically maintains the necessary 36"-wide aisles between clothing racks. During the holidays however, all of the overstock clothing goes on clearance and the number of racks double, eliminating the space needed for accessible travel throughout the store. While previously accessible and approved by BluePath, the business is responsible for maintaining its standards to avoid risking a harmful situation.