In the competitive landscape of AV projects, AV system integrators have multiple components to bundle together to create a cohesive and competitive bid. While prominent AV technology such as video displays and sound systems often take the forefront of such bids, assistive listening (ALS) solutions bring unmatched value to guests with hearing loss. Below, we've outlined the growing need for such systems and why they should be at the forefront of your next bid.
Hearing loss is a significant and often overlooked issue in today's society. In the United States alone, hearing loss is expected to almost double to approximately 73.5 million people across all ages by 2060[1]. This statistic highlights an opportunity for venues to enhance experiences for guests with hearing impairments.
Emphasizing the importance of inclusive audio addresses a growing need and aligns with broader societal values of equality and accessibility. Providing ALS solutions can transform events, lectures, proceedings, and performances into more enjoyable and inclusive spaces.
One of the most compelling reasons to include ALS in your project bids is to ensure venue compliance with accessibility standards. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations mandate ADA-compliant assistive listening systems are required when there is public use of the facility, use of an installed P.A. system, speech or sound is integral to the use of the space, or when new facilities are constructed, retrofitted, or renovated of more than 65% of a venue. This includes public spaces such as theaters, lecture halls, stadiums, and courtrooms. The venue's seating capacity determines the required number of receivers to be provided to meet ADA compliance regulations.
Non-compliance with these regulations can result in costly fees and lawsuits that can be more expensive than installing an ADA-compliant system in the first place. Complaints filed to the Department of Justice can lead to significant financial penalties. Protect your customer by proactively including ALS in your bid, ensuring the project adheres to legal standards. Our ADA tool enables venues and integrators to quickly assess how many assistive listening devices they need.
The government has implemented tax credits and deductions programs to help offset the costs associated with implementing ADA solutions. The Disabled Access Credit (IRS Code Section 44) is available to small businesses (with 30 or fewer employees or 1 million dollars or less in gross receipts for the preceding tax year), making them eligible for tax credits of 50% of eligible ADA-related expenses (up to $5,000) under Section 44. Venues can use this credit for expenditures relating to removing barriers in buildings to provide accessible services.
Another tax benefit available to all businesses is the Architectural Barrier Removal Tax Deduction (IRS Code Section 190). This benefit allows businesses to deduct up to $15,000 each year for costs related to removing barriers for people with disabilities. These barriers can be physical, structural, or related to transportation.
These tax benefits make assistive listening systems even more affordable for your clients without cutting into your margins. This financial incentive helps clients meet accessibility standards and shows your expertise and commitment to cost-effective solutions. We advise consulting a legal professional for specific project eligibility.
In the bidding process, details matter. Incorporating ALS rounds out an AV bid and showcases your comprehensive approach to clients' AV needs. People often overlook these systems due to a lack of awareness of government regulations. By including ALS solutions in your bid, you're educating and highlighting their importance and legal requirements. This proves your dedication to covering every aspect of the client's needs and positioning your company as a thoughtful and thorough AV partner.
Recognizing the prevalence of hearing loss and the increasing need for these systems presents a compelling case for their integration into AV projects. Adding ALS to AV projects enhances the auditory experience for people with hearing loss, ensures compliance with legal standards, gains a competitive advantage, and builds trust with your clients.
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