Back toAsk Katie & Steve

Question for Katie & Steve

What is the requirement for ramps for
wheelchairs like height of rails, degree of slope and width?"

 Answer: The Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines  (ADAAG) states in section 4.8 that the maximum slope of a ramp can be 1:12, which means for every vertical inch of the step or rise, the ramp  shall protrude out 12 inches (so if you have a 12 inch tall step to be  ramped, the ramp would have to be a minimum of 12 feet in length.)  It  is preferable to make the ramp longer, via a switchback or dogleg  design. A longer ramp makes the slope smaller and easier for the person
 with a disability to use.

 The minimum clear width of a ramp shall be a minimum of 36 inches.

 Edge protection is necessary on the sides of the ramp floor so  wheelchair wheels and canes won't fall off.

Handrails (section 4.8.5):  ADAAG states, "If a ramp run has a rise  greater than 6" (150 mm) or a horizontal projection greater than 72"  (1830mm), then it shall have handrails on both sides.  Handrails are not
 required on curb ramps (see section 4.7) or adjacent to seating in  assembly areas.  Handrails shall comply with section 4.26 and shall have  the following features:

1. Handrails shall be provided along both sides of ramp segments.  The  inside handrail on switchback or dogleg ramps shall always be  continuous.

2. If handrails are not continuous, they shall extend at least 12"  (305mm) beyond the top and bottom of the ramp segment and shall be  parallel with the floor or ground surface.

3. The clear space between the handrail and the wall shall be 1-1/2"  (38mm).

4. Gripping surfaces shall be continuous.

5. Top of handrail gripping surfaces shall be mounted between 34" and
    38" (865mm & 965mm) above ramp surfaces.

6. Ends of handrails shall be either rounded or returned smoothly to
    floor, wall or post.

7. Handrails shall not rotate within their fittings."
   

Katie R. Banister