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National Disability Employment Awareness Month Celebrates 80 Years;Our Industry Does, Too.

Blog 41, October 2025

The modern era of the automatic door industry is widely considered to have begun with the 1940s invention of the floor mat activator device. Another milestone of that decade? The 1945 enactment of an annual observance that grew to become National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).

It's fitting that our industry began at about the same time the nation started celebrating workers with disabilities and all they add to the workforce. We're proud of the automatic door industry's history of making public buildings – including many places of employment – more accessible to everyone.

In unveiling the 80th anniversary theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent," U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer said, “Celebrating America means celebrating the value and talent that all Americans – including people with disabilities – add to our nation's workplaces and communities. As we approach the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Department of Labor remains committed to ensuring all people have the opportunity to find meaningful work."

Automatic doors are a vital part of furthering this goal. They offer significant advantages for employees with disabilities, facilitating easier access for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches. They reduce physical strain for employees with conditions that limit strength or dexterity. By reducing reliance on others to open doors, automatic doors also help employees with disabilities maintain greater independence and autonomy in the workplace.

Even for employees who don't require obvious mobility aids, automatic doors reduce the risk of accidents or injuries that might occur when trying to push or pull heavy doors, which is crucial for employees who might be more vulnerable to falls or strains. Or employees carrying heavy boxes and equipment. Or people experiencing temporary illnesses or conditions.

Overall, automatic doors contribute significantly to creating an inclusive and accommodating work environment, facilitating easier access and enhancing the overall experience for employees with disabilities.

We're proud to celebrate the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. And that the automatic door industry has been around—literally since day one—to help make workplaces more accessible for everyone, regardless of ability.

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