ASPE Denver Chapter Technical Training Led by Marx|Okubo’s Director of Accessibility

Nov 23, 2021

Last week, Sarah Strauch, ADAC, LEED GA from Marx|Okubo presented “ADA Accessibility and Lessons Learned" at the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Denver chapter meeting. As Senior Associate and Director of Accessibility at Marx|Okubo, Sarah contributes her meticulous surveying skills and in-depth knowledge of the ADA, FHA and state and local code requirements to provide clients clarity about conformity with federal laws.

This presentation, created for plumbing engineers, city and state inspectors, and manufacturers' representatives was an introductory/refresher accessibility course covering accessibility regulations for plumbing elements focusing primarily on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Fair Housing Amendments Act, and the model building code.

The course, which offered continuing credits for attendees, detailed the requirements and pitfalls and emphasized best practices in applying these civil rights laws during the pre-design, design and construction process for new construction and renovation projects.

The audience was very engaged and asked great questions pertaining to their experiences in the field. They specifically asked a lot of questions about how certain codes apply to different parts of plumbing work, including showers, sinks and water closets. Sarah collaborated with audience members to problem-solve many of their issues and highlighted the key regulations/codes that they need to account for in their work.

Participants also gleaned insights on how to recognize which property types are governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which are governed by the Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHA) and when they are governed by both and become aware of other regulations and codes that may also apply and what questions to ask in the pre-design phase.

In addition to directing Marx|Okubo’s in-house accessibility group, Sarah is a technical resource inside and outside of the company. She provides AIA accredited training and workshops to architects, designers, engineers, developers, and contractors and has conducted accessibility reviews and surveyed a broad range of project types and facilities including libraries, parks, recreation centers, performance areas, hotels, city and county office facilities, shopping centers, multifamily and senior living facilities and affordable housing projects.

For questions regarding accessibility or future learning opportunities on accessibility issues, please contact Sarah Strauch.