Schools in Wake County will require ramps based on the North Carolina Accessibility Code 2003. Many of the rules in this statewide guide are based on ADA rules. Planning access ramps based on these points is critical, and our experts at REDD Team will help you get new building access ramps ready for your Wake County school.
Rules For the Ramp
REDD Team can prepare a new access ramp based on ADA and North Carolina guidelines. North Carolina complies with various ADA guidelines, including slope, rise, and landing rules.
To start, a ramp must be 1:12 in slope at most, and the total rise on a ramp can be up to 30 inches. For cases where the total run is greater than 30 inches, a midway landing of at least 60 inches long is necessary.
Landings must also appear on the top and bottom parts of the ramp. They must be 60 inches long.
When the ramp rises at least six inches, handrails 34 to 38 inches high are also necessary.
The Width Changes By Length
One specific part of North Carolina law to use for ADA-compliant ramps involves how the width of a ramp can vary based on its length. For cases where the ramp is 24 inches or less, the ramp should be at least 32 inches wide. If the ramp is more than 24 inches long, the segment should be at least 36 inches wide.
The landings for the ramp must also be as wide as the widest part of the ramp. A landing is unnecessary for ramps of 24 inches or less in length, but a square landing of 60 inches on each side is still necessary if the ramp changes direction.
The handrails on the sides should not interfere with the total width, which will be measured based on the distance between the ends of the two rails.
The Turning Rule
Another point of North Carolina law to use involves how to manage turns. In most situations, a ramp will require each run to have a 36-inch width heading into a flat landing where a turn will take place. The landing surface will also be 60 inches deep.
However, a shorter landing surface of 48 inches can also be applied if the two ramp parts are 42 inches wide. This point for a 180-degree turn is suitable for cases with size constraints. REDD Team can help you plan a ramp based on your sizing needs.
Regardless of what works, the landing at the turn should be flat and sized well to ensure there’s enough room for someone to turn. The 60-inch rule is still best, although the shorter 48-inch landing can apply if managed right. We can review your plan for a landing and figure out a solution that works for you.
You can reach us at REDD Team today for help getting a new wheelchair ramp ready for your Wake County school. We can help you manage different ramps based on their size and location needs while meeting all ADA and state rules. You can contact us online or at 800-648-3696 to learn more and schedule a consultation.
