The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a final ruling on new accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which pertains to automated teller machines (ATMs). The Final Rule imposes new standards for ATMs that include, but are not limited to a voice guidance requirement, Braille signage and input controls for visually-impaired individuals. TDS is here to help you evaluate your current ATM and future ATM needs.

The Final Rule was published in the Federal Register on Sept. 15, 2010; the 2010 ADA Standards take effect March 15, 2011, and have a March 15, 2012, compliance date. During the interim period, on or after Sept. 15, 2010, and before March 15, 2012, an ATM owner must comply with either the 1991 ADA Standards or the 2010 ADA Standards for new construction and alterations. On and after March 15, 2012, an ATM owner must comply with the 2010 ADA Standards for new construction and alterations.

The DOJ’s new ruling focuses on the accessibility of the input and output controls at the ATM, including some of the following:
• Voice guidance
• Height and Reach
• Numeric Keypads
• Function Keys
• Display Screen Sizes
• Braille Instructions
• Privacy Screen Rendering
• Equal Services Accessibility

Contact TDS so that we can help assess your needs and keep your bank in compliance!