About the Access Specialist Program

Join us for a round table discussion on the new State Certified Access Specialist Program (CASP) and its impact on the review and enforcement of accessibility regulations. We will explore how they relate to architects and to the disabled community. Peter Margen will join the forum to share his expertise in the area of disability policy, universal design and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The Certified Access Specialist Program (CASP) was approved by the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and began accepting applications in July of 2008. The certificate serves as evidence that you met the State Architects specific criteria to be identified as a Certified Access Specialist.

In recent years numerous civil claims have been filed against public business and property owners for accessibility issues, many of which are settled out of court. SB 1608 contains language that will change the way construction related accessibility claims are handled throughout the litigation process.

Senate Bill 1608 was introduced to amend sections of the B&P, Government, Health & Safety and Civil Codes relating to disability access. The bill would require that beginning on July 1, 2009, all inspections of a place of Accommodation (AHJ) that relate to permitting, plan checks or new construction be conducted by an inspector who is a certified access specialist. This means local building departments will be required to employ or retain at least one CASP. It also means that the expected number of applicants could double, together with increased opportunities for ACIA inspector members.

Although building inspectors have historically enforced ADA compliance CASP is the first certification of its kind that is dedicated to accessibility code and ADA enforcement. The first applications are now being accepted for the CASP examinations and the first list of Certified Access Specialist will be posted by October 31st. Individuals holding CASP certification will be required to re-certify every three years.

4/15/09

Codes Forum - About the Access Specialist Program
Learn about the new State Certified Access Specialist Program (CASP) and its impact on the review and enforcement of accessibility regulations. Peter Margen, Principal Consultant for Margen & Associates will be on hand to answer questions and discussion will follow.

Time: 12:00pm - 1:30pm

Location: AIA East Bay Chapter Office, 1405 Clay Street, Oakland.

Contact: 510/464-3600 or Lyrinda Snyderman, AIA

Cost: None; this program open to all.

1.5 CES/LU

For more information: 510/464-3600