- In the United States, building accessibility for all individuals is required by the ADA.parking image by Judyta Zarska from Fotolia.com
According to the 2000 US Census, nearly 50 million people in the United Stated have a documented disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) provides specifications and guidelines that ensure accessibility for public buildings and recreation areas. Michigan contractors are required to follow ADA specs when constructing wheel chair ramps. - Two of the most important wheelchair ramp requirements are the slope and rise of the ramp. The slope defines the gradient of the incline, while the rise is the vertical distance from the ground to the highest point of the incline. The ADA specifies a preference for a ramp slope of 1:16 to 1:20. This gentle slope assists individuals who have limited body strength or a disability that affects the use of their arms.
- All wheelchair ramps must have a sturdy handrail placed at a height of approximately 28 inches from the floor of the ramp. Some facilities require a second set of handrails placed in a lower position to accommodate children. The purpose of wheelchair ramp handrails is both assist a wheelchair user, and to aid in preventing accidents. The gripping surface of the handrail must be continuous, and the ends of the rails must be rounded or have protective caps fitted to them.
- All ramps and ramp openings must be at least 36 inches wide to accommodate wheelchair use. The surface of the wheelchair ramp must be non-slip and must not collect water. Ramp edges must be curbed at a height of 2 inches to prevent slipping, falling and rolling accidents.
- All wheelchair ramp landings must have at least a 60 inch clearance to allow for turning a chair. Additionally, all landings must be at least as wide as the ramp leading to it. Following this specification, any doorways located at a ramp landing must be 36 to 44 inches wide.
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