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Do You Know About The Government Criteria For Wheelchair Accessible Ramps?

27th October, 2010 - Posted by health news - No Comments

One of the worst things pertaining to finding yourself in a wheelchair is that you can no longer go everywhere you want to go. For example, if you wish to go into a building which just has an entrance up a few steps, you pretty much have to reconsider. Even though Americans with Disabilities Acts of the 1990s forced the issue of all new buildings having wheelchair accessible construction of ramps and elevators, older buildings are exempted except in cases where renovating has been carried out. This certainly limits the independence enjoyed by these disabled Americans causing them to feel frustrated and helpless.

Whenever a building is newly-constructed or perhaps remodeled, the laws are incredibly specific regarding the amount of access they need to offer wheelchair patients. The incline of ramps should be between 1:16 and 1:20. The ability of somebody in a wheelchair to cope with an incline depends on both slope and length. Even the best inclines are tough for individuals with poor upper body strength and stamina. It has been determined that most individuals in wheelchairs can manage a slope of 1:16, however, many are stymied by one of 1:12. Any time a building is being remodeled, it has to bring its accessibility up to code standards at the time of the construction.

In addition to the level of slope a ramp has, there are additional guidelines regarding landings and handrails. Landings have to be at the minimum as wide as the ramps leading up to them which would mean at least 36” x 60” long. If a ramp changes direction, the landing in between the sections should be at least 60” x 60” to allow a turn radius. When there is a doorway at the top of the ramp, then the area in front of the door should comply with government specs.

All wheelchair accessible ramps must have handrails which are no higher than 28” except when it’s a facility specifically made for the usage of small children. If the ramp has a rise of more than 6”, then there needs to be suitable handrails on both sides.

Even if you are handicapped, you have rights to independence and freedom like everyone else. If you’re having problems with facilities that you feel must be up to code but are not, you can call the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice as well as visit with them regarding your rights. The phone numbers are 800-514-0301 for voice and 800-514-0383 for TTY.