Keep in mind that you may need to follow other guidelines, depending on the laws passed by your state or local government. If you install a ramp that doesn't meet these requirements and someone is ultimately injured as a result, you may even face legal problems. If your ramp does not adhere to these requirements, you may be denied a building permit, or you may face fines or even legal consequences. In cases where you are installing a wheelchair ramp in a commercial or public space, such as a business, following ADA requirements is not optional. For this reason, it is best to follow ADA recommendations if at all possible. The ADA includes specifications for wheelchair ramps for the safety of wheelchair users and other individuals that utilize these ramps to move from one location to another. When handrails are not continuous, they must extend at least 12 inches further than the length of the ramp.Handrails must be continuous between ramp runs in a switchback ramp or an L-shaped ramp.There must be a space of at least 1.5 inches between the handrail and the wall.Handrails must run the entire length of the ramp.The top gripping surface of the handrail should be 34 to 38 inches above the surface of the wheelchair ramp.Handrails must either extend into the floor, a post or a wall, or they must be rounded.If handrails are required, they must meet the following specifications: HandrailsĪccording to ADA regulations, you must install handrails on both sides of any wheelchair ramp that has a rise of more than six inches. Alternatively, a curb or barrier may be installed. Ramps and landings should have a surface that extends at least 12 inches past the inside of the handrail face. To prevent users from slipping off a ramp or landing, the ADA requires edge protection on either side of the ramp wherever applicable. If a landing is installed in a location that may become wet, it must be designed to prevent the accumulation of water. If the ramp does not change directions at the landing, the landing must be at least five feet long and at least as wide as the wheelchair ramp. If the ramp changes direction at the landing, the landing must have minimum dimensions of five feet by five feet. LandingsĪll wheelchair ramps must include an appropriate landing at both the top of the ramp and the bottom of the ramp, and each landing must be level. After 30 inches, a rest or platform must be provided. RiseĪDA regulations require a maximum ramp rise of 30 inches. Keep in mind that some states may have stricter requirements than the ADA. This space must be clear and free of obstacles. Whether a wheelchair ramp is portable or permanent, the ADA requires a width of at least 36 inches between the ramp’s handrails. The cross slope, which is the slope running perpendicular to the user's direction of travel, should not be any steeper than 1:48. Anything steeper is considered dangerous. SlopeĪccording to the ADA’s specifications, the slope in the direction of travel cannot exceed 1:12, meaning that for every one inch of rise, there should be 12 inches of length. These requirements apply to almost every aspect of wheelchair ramp design, from the slope of the ramp to its length, and they can be complicated, so it is usually a good idea to work with an experienced contractor when installing a wheelchair ramp in any location. The ADA's requirements outline the proper shape, size, slope, and design of wheelchair ramps and other building components so that they can be safe and accessible for people living with disabilities. We’ll help you understand the ADA's guidelines so you can make sure that the design of your wheelchair ramp is compliant, whether you are installing it in a commercial location or at your home. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) publishes specific guidelines that apply to the design and installation of wheelchair ramps, setting standards that must be adhered to in order to ensure safety and accessibility.īut how do you know exactly what you need to do to make sure your ramp meets these standards? We’ll walk you through the guidelines to make the whole process clear, easy, and transparent. Wheelchair ramps are an essential component of mobility for people who use wheelchairs and other assistive devices like scooters or walkers.
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