Summer brings warmer weather, longer days, and a surge of customers eager to enjoy outdoor experiences. Whether you operate a bustling patio restaurant, a seasonal pop-up shop, or a lively amusement venue, preparing your space for summer crowds means more than just stocking up on supplies; it means ensuring everyone can access and enjoy your business.
Accessible outdoor spaces aren’t just good for business; they’re a reflection of your commitment to inclusivity, safety, and customer satisfaction. Here’s how to get your ramps, stairs, and access points summer-ready.
Inspect Your Ramps and Entry Mats
Outdoor ramps and threshold mats can take a beating from weather and foot traffic all year long. Before peak season, inspect all access points carefully:
✔ Check for cracks, warping, or loose hardware on ramps.
✔ Ensure threshold mats like the TRANSITIONS® Angled Entry Mat are secure and provide smooth passage over door thresholds.
✔ Replace worn or slippery surfaces to help prevent trip hazards.
Pro tip: Look for ramps and mats designed for durability in outdoor settings, so they hold up under heavy summer use. Consider choosing aluminum rather than wood for ramp construction.
Review Stair Safety
If your outdoor space includes stairs, it’s time for a safety check:
✔ Confirm handrails are secure, rust-free, and extend the full length of the stairs.
✔ Add slip-resistant treads or coatings, especially if you expect rain, water play, or spilled drinks nearby.
✔ Consider adding a small portable ramp or platform system where appropriate to give patrons using wheelchairs or walkers an alternative, accessible route.
Keep Pathways Clear and Wide
Summer crowds can bring extra clutter: think patio seating, planters, sandwich boards, or merchandise racks. Make sure these additions don’t block your access routes.
✔ Maintain at least 36 inches of clear width along pathways to meet ADA guidelines.
✔ Arrange tables and displays to allow room for wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers to pass.
✔ Regularly monitor high-traffic areas to keep them clear of obstacles.
Prepare Outdoor Service Areas
If you’re adding seasonal outdoor services like food trucks, ticket booths, or pop-up bars:
✔ Use modular ramps like the PATHWAY® HD Code Compliant Modular Access System to create smooth, accessible entries.
✔ Ensure temporary setups have stable, slip-resistant flooring.
✔ Clearly mark accessible routes with signage, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas.
Train Your Staff on Accessibility
Your physical space is only part of the equation; staff awareness makes a huge difference.
✔ Train team members to assist guests with mobility devices.
✔ Encourage proactive clearing of pathways when needed.
✔ Ensure staff know where accessible routes, restrooms, and seating are located.
Summer Crowds, Smarter Access
By preparing your outdoor space now, you can create an environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and able to enjoy what you offer. EZ-ACCESS® offers a full line of ramps, platforms, and threshold mats designed to help businesses improve accessibility with minimal installation and maximum durability.
Ready to gear up for summer? Browse our collection of commercial access solutions or contact us to find the right products for your space.