Creating an inclusive, accessible environment isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s essential for your business’s success. Yet despite the best intentions, many companies still make critical accessibility mistakes that unintentionally exclude customers, employees, and visitors with disabilities.
The good news? Most of these mistakes are easily fixable with the right mindset, training, and support. Let’s break down the most common accessibility mistakes businesses make — and more importantly, how to fix them.
Lack of Accessible Entrances
One of the biggest accessibility mistakes we see is businesses failing to provide properly accessible entrances. This could mean no automatic doors, steps without ramps, or entrances cluttered with obstacles like sandwich boards or displays.
How to Fix It:
- Install automatic or power-assisted doors whenever possible.
- Ensure that at least one entrance is step-free with a properly graded ramp.
- Keep entrances clear of signage, seasonal displays, or other barriers.
Accessibility starts at the door. If people can’t get in easily, they’re not going to feel welcome.
Overlooking Website Accessibility Mistakes
Digital accessibility is just as important as physical accessibility — and yet it’s often forgotten. Websites that aren’t compatible with screen readers, keyboard navigation, or colorblind users can leave out a huge audience.
How to Fix It:
- Use alt text on all images.
- Make sure your site can be navigated entirely by keyboard.
- Ensure text has strong color contrast against backgrounds.
- Regularly audit your site using accessibility tools (ie. axe DevTools) and partner with experts like Equal Accessibility.
Your website is often your first impression. Don’t let accessibility mistakes online create barriers before someone even walks through your door.
Inaccessible Restrooms
Restrooms are a frequent trouble spot. Missing grab bars, cramped spaces, heavy doors, or sinks that are too high can make restrooms completely unusable for many people with disabilities.
How to Fix It:
- Install ADA-compliant grab bars near toilets.
- Make sure there is enough clearance for wheelchair users to maneuver.
- Use lever-style door handles and faucets for easier operation.
- Add Door Nub’s to ADA stall doors.
A restroom might seem like a small thing, but getting it wrong sends a huge negative message about how much you value all of your customers.
Failing to Train Staff
Another major accessibility mistake is overlooking staff training. Even if you have the right accommodations in place, untrained staff can unintentionally create barriers through their language, attitudes, or lack of knowledge.
How to Fix It:
- Conduct regular inclusive customer service training sessions.
- Teach staff about disability etiquette, accessible communication methods, and how to offer respectful assistance.
- Roleplay real-world scenarios to build confidence.
An accessible environment isn’t just about the physical space — it’s about people creating a welcoming experience.
Ignoring Invisible Disabilities
When businesses think about accessibility, they often picture wheelchair users — and while physical access is crucial, it’s not the whole story. Invisible disabilities like autism, PTSD, hearing loss, or chronic illness are frequently overlooked.
How to Fix It:
- Train staff to recognize that disabilities aren’t always visible.
- Offer quiet spaces for those who may become overwhelmed.
- Provide clear, simple signage and written instructions wherever possible.
Assuming someone’s needs based solely on appearance is one of the most damaging accessibility mistakes businesses can make.
Not Involving People with Disabilities
Accessibility efforts often fall short because businesses don’t include people with disabilities in the process. Designing solutions for people without ever talking to them leads to missed opportunities and even unintentional harm.
How to Fix It:
- Involve people with disabilities in your planning, testing, and feedback stages.
- Hire consultants (like Equal Accessibility!) who bring real-world expertise.
- Conduct regular accessibility evaluations from the perspective of a user.
Nothing about us without us — it’s a phrase the disability community has championed for a reason.
Poor Communication Accessibility
It’s easy to assume that printed signs, spoken announcements, or website text covers everyone’s needs, but communication comes in many forms — and failing to make it accessible is another big accessibility mistake.
How to Fix It:
- Provide printed materials in large print and easy-to-read formats.
- Offer ASL interpretation or captioning for events.
- Make announcements both visually and audibly whenever possible.
Accessible communication ensures that no one is left out of critical information, whether it’s an emergency or a simple promotional message.
Relying Only on Minimum Compliance
Perhaps the most damaging accessibility mistake of all? Thinking that meeting the bare minimum legal requirements (like ADA compliance) is enough. True accessibility goes beyond checklists. It’s about creating spaces that feel welcoming and intuitive for everyone.
How to Fix It:
- Move beyond compliance and aim for true inclusivity.
- Regularly re-evaluate your spaces, digital presence, and policies through an accessibility lens.
- Remember: accessibility is a journey, not a one-time project.
Businesses that truly embrace inclusivity not only avoid costly lawsuits and bad PR — they build deeper customer loyalty, attract a wider audience, and set themselves apart as industry leaders.
Building an inclusive business takes thought, effort, and a willingness to learn — but the payoff is worth it. Avoiding these accessibility mistakes and taking proactive steps to fix them will create a better experience for everyone who interacts with your brand.
If you’re ready to create a space that welcomes everyone, we’d love to help. Contact Equal Accessibility today to schedule an inclusivity evaluation or staff training session and start your accessibility journey with heart!
