Where are assistive listening devices required to be provided?

Per the scoping of the 2010 ADA Standards 219, assistive listening devices will be required at assembly spaces where audible communications is integral to the use of the space.  Some examples of assembly spaces are classrooms, lecture halls, performance areas and even courtrooms.   

The 2010 Standards define the term "assembly area" to include facilities used for entertainment, educational, or civic gatherings.

There is an exemption that if the assembly areas don't have audio amplification systems (like speakers and microphones), then an assistive listening device will not be required.  This exception does not apply to courtrooms, where they are required even if amplification systems are not provided.

Courtrooms always have to have assistive listening devices even if there is no amplification devices.

It is recommended (in the advisory), but not required, to provide assistive listening devices where there is a security glass with communication systems.

How many assistive listening devices are required

The number of receivers for assistive listening devices that are required in each assembly area is determined by the seating capacity in each assembly space.  The calculations come from Table 219.3

There is an exception per 219.3 that states if there are more than one assembly area that requires assistive listening devices, and they are all under one management, you can calculate the number of receivers based on the total in the entire building.

The amount of receivers used to be only in spaces where fixed seating was provided, but it is no longer calculated based on fixed seating.  Any type of seating that is provided will count in this table.

Other requirements

Besides the number and locations for the assistive listening devices, there are other requirements listed in 216 and 706:

• 25% but no fewer than two receivers should be hearing aid compatible per ADA Section 706.

• The signal-to-noise ratio for internally generated noise in assistive listening systems shall be 18 dB minimum. 

• Peak clipping shall not exceed 18 dB of clipping relative to the peaks of speech.

• At each assembly area required  to provide assistive listening systems, a sign informing patrons of the availability of the assistive listening system must be provided.  The signs must meet the requirements in sections 703.5 and shall include the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss.

There is an exception that states, where ticket offices or windows are provided, signs shall not be required at each assembly area provided that signs are displayed at each ticket office or window informing patrons of the availability of assistive listening systems.