Polk County, FL, follows the 2020 Florida Building Code when reviewing accessibility standards for schools and other public properties in the area. The code requires access ramps suitable for any space with a sizeable rise. Our experts at REDD Team understand that these rules are complex and include many technical points. But we’ll be there to help you get a new ramp that works for your space while meeting all Polk County standards.
Create a Suitable Slope
The slope of your ramp will vary depending on its total rise. Any ramp with a rise of at least six inches can have a maximum slope of 1:12, meaning the ramp will rise one inch for every 12 inches in length.
A shorter ramp can be steeper. A ramp from three to six inches can have a 1:10 slope, while a ramp less than three inches high can get a 1:8 slope.
Polk County advises buildings to have ramps with the least possible slope to make it easier for people to go up and down the ramp. The 1:12 maximum for most ramps is the most extreme you can go and shouldn’t be considered the final option for you to use. Check your space to see how steep your ramp can be, and call us at REDD Team for help in getting your ramp designed based on whatever slope works best.
Enough Room For Everyone
Ensuring the inclusivity of your ramp design is a top priority. The average width of a wheelchair varies, and it’s important to accommodate all users. According to Florida law, a ramp must be at least 36 inches wide, a size that should comfortably support most people.
If you’re looking for something that covers more space, a wider ramp of about 60 inches can also work. A wide ramp can handle two wheelchairs at a time, although a secondary handrail may appear in the middle to create separate lanes for people going in opposite directions.
How Will the Ramp Be Arranged?
When it comes to ramp design, you have the freedom to choose. While most ramps are straight, you can also opt for a ramp with a turn if space is a constraint. In such cases, a square landing at the turning spot is necessary, with each side measuring at least 60 inches.
You’ll also require a landing for cases where the ramp has a rise of over 30 inches. The landing will be 60 inches long and placed in the ramp’s middle. The ramp landing must also be as wide as the rest of the ramp.
The rules for an ADA-compliant building access ramp at your Polk County school are extensive, but our workers and designers at REDD Team can build a new ramp that fits your space. We offer a comprehensive range of services, from initial consultation to final installation, to ensure your ramp meets all Polk County standards. Contact us today for further info on how well we can get a new ramp working at your site. You can reach our website or call us at 800-648-3696 to consult with us for an appointment.
