Introduction
The beach is a place where people of all ages and abilities should be able to enjoy the beauty of the coast and the calming sound of the waves. However, for individuals with mobility challenges, accessing the beach can be a significant hurdle. Soft sand, uneven surfaces, and the absence of proper pathways can make it nearly impossible for those using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers to navigate the beach. This is where ACCESSREC’s Beach Accessibility & Mobility Matting systems come into play.
ACCESSREC has designed a revolutionary solution that not only enhances beach accessibility but also ensures full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Let’s explore in detail how this system works, its advantages, and the accessories that complement it to provide a seamless and inclusive beach experience for everyone.
What is the Beach Mobility Matting System?
ACCESSREC’s ACCESSMAT® is an innovative, durable, and flexible matting solution that creates accessible pathways on sandy beaches and other challenging terrains. The matting system is designed to provide a stable, non-slip surface that can be used by individuals with mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers. The matting is available in standards of 3’, 5’ 6’ & 10’ wide and 25’, 33’ 50’ and 100’ long, making it adaptable to different beach environments and usage needs.
Key Features of ACCESSREC’ ACCESSMAT®
1. Durability and Strength
The matting is made from recycled plastic and fully recyclable polyester, a material known for its robustness and resistance to wear and tear since it is a non-woven mat. This ensures that the mats can withstand heavy foot traffic, as well as the harsh beach environment, including exposure to saltwater, UV rays, and fluctuating temperatures.
2. Slip-Resistant Surface
Safety is a priority in the design of these mats. The surface of the matting is engineered to be slip-resistant, reducing the risk of falls, especially for those using mobility devices or for elderly beachgoers, when the site complies with the ADA guidelines. The textured surface also helps in providing traction for wheelchairs and strollers, but like any plastic material you should use caution when wet as it may turn slippery.
3. ADA Compliance
The Beach Mobility Matting System is fully compliant with ADA guidelines, ensuring that all users, regardless of their mobility levels, can access the beach safely and comfortably. The mats meet the required standards for firmness and stability, providing a smooth and continuous pathway to the shoreline.
4. Ease of Installation and Maintenance
One of the standout features of ACCESSREC’s matting system is its ease of installation. The mats can be rolled out and secured quickly, allowing for rapid deployment in various locations. Additionally, the mats are low maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning with a broom, or a leaf blower to keep the sand off and top condition.
5. Customization Options
The matting system is available in three colors, brown, blue or tan, allowing municipalities, resorts, and other organizations to tailor the pathways to their specific needs and aesthetic preferences. Add an ACCESSCOM® panel in between sections of ACCESSREC’s ACCESSMAT® to educate, warn or inform your users on the topic of your choice.
Advantages of ACCESSREC’s Beach Mobility Matting System
1. Enhanced Accessibility
The primary advantage of ACCESSREC’s Beach Mobility Matting system is its ability to provide individuals with mobility challenges a way to access the beach without difficulty. By creating a stable and secure pathway, the mats eliminate the barriers posed by soft sand and uneven surfaces, making the beach accessible to everyone. ACCESSREC’s ACCESSMAT® accessories provide the wheelchairs or pedestrians users with peace of mind when traveling on the beach walkway:
a) Non-Woven fabric: the fabric of ACCESSMAT® is the most comfortable to travel on for pedestrians and wheelchair users.
b) Connector: The durable aluminum connectors from ACCESSREC are designed for longevity! Unlike inexpensive plastic connectors, they are resistant to wear, deformation, and breakage. These connectors ensure a seamless connection between two segments of our matting system, eliminating any barriers, obstacles, or tripping hazards that may be present with other materials.
c) Plugs & Pins: Our innovative plugs & pins will not create a dip to the sand or an obstacle that will make your beach pathway not ADA/AODA compliant and unsafe to the use of pedestrians and wheelchairs unlike the use of staples or spike along the way of the walk.
d) Beach Access Sign: Aluminum beach access sign 18"H by 12"W used to educate beach goers about the application / purpose of the product and warn them of the liability of use during inclement weather.
2. Versatility
The matting system is not limited to just beach environments. It can be used in various other settings where mobility is a concern, such as parks, playgrounds, campgrounds, and recreational areas. This versatility makes it a valuable investment for any organization looking to enhance accessibility in multiple locations.
3. Increased Safety
The slip-resistant surface of the mats reduces the risk of accidents, ensuring that all beachgoers, including those with limited mobility, can navigate the beach safely. This is particularly important in busy beach areas where the risk of slipping or falling is higher.
4. Cost-Effective Solution
ACCESSREC’s matting system offers a cost-effective solution to beach accessibility challenges. The durable materials and low maintenance requirements mean that the mats have a long lifespan, providing excellent value for money over time.
5. Environmental Considerations
The mats are designed with the environment in mind. They are made from recyclable materials and are designed to minimize their impact on the natural beach environment. The mats can be easily removed when not needed, ensuring that they do not interfere with the natural habitat.
Additional items for Improving Your Beach Inclusivity
1. AccessDeck
AccessDeck is a heavy-duty, modular ground protection system that can be used in conjunction with the Beach Mobility Matting System. It is particularly useful for creating temporary pathways, turnaround or parking areas for wheelchairs users over challenging terrain such as soft. AccessDeck is designed to support heavy loads, making it ideal for use with vehicles or large crowds.
2. Wheelchair Mats
These are specialized mats designed specifically for use with wheelchairs. They provide additional stability and traction, ensuring that wheelchair users can navigate the beach with ease. These mats can be used in conjunction with the main matting system or as standalone solutions in smaller areas. ACCESSREC offers CocoPath®, a coco mat walkway system, available to budget’s savvy customers.
3. Floating Surf Wheelchair
WaterWheels® is an innovative amphibious wheelchair that allows users to move seamlessly from the beach to the water. The chair’s design enables it to float, giving users the freedom to enjoy the ocean without having to transfer to a different mobility device. This accessory is a perfect complement to the Beach Mobility Matting System, providing a comprehensive solution for beach accessibility.
4. All Terrain Wheelchair
TerraWheels® All-Terrain Wheelchair is a groundbreaking mobility solution designed to empower individuals with physical disabilities to explore and enjoy outdoor environments that were once inaccessible. Engineered for rugged terrain, this wheelchair features large, durable wheels and a robust frame that can navigate sand, gravel, grass, and other challenging surfaces with ease. Whether it's a day at the beach, a hike through the woods, or a stroll in the park, TERRAWHEELS ensures that no terrain is off-limits. With its user-friendly design and emphasis on comfort and safety, the TERRAWHEELS All-Terrain Wheelchair offers freedom and adventure to those seeking to reconnect with nature.
Conclusion
ACCESSREC’s Beach Mobility Matting System is a game-changer in the world of beach accessibility. By providing a durable, versatile, and fully ADA-compliant solution, ACCESSREC is helping to ensure that everyone, regardless of their mobility level, can enjoy the beauty and serenity of the beach. With its range of accessories, the matting systems can be customized to meet the specific needs of any beach or outdoor recreational area, making it an invaluable investment for communities and organizations committed to inclusivity.