As society becomes more inclusive and accessible, ensuring everyone can access commercial and industrial buildings has become essential for building owners and managers. One crucial element of accessibility is the installation of wheelchair ramps that meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has set guidelines for accessibility to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to public facilities.
REDD Team ADA wheelchair ramps are designed with many useful features to provide individuals with disabilities easy access to public facilities. The ADA wheelchair ramp slope requirements ensure the ramp is safe and accessible for individuals with disabilities. As a building owner or manager, you must be familiar with your state’s regulations and codes to ensure your facility remains compliant and is accessible to people with different abilities.
Maximum Slope
The maximum slope of a wheelchair ramp, according to ADA standards, is 1:12. For example, if a building entrance has a 12-inch pitch, the ramp must be at least 12 feet long. It’s important to note that ramps with steeper slopes are more challenging for people in wheelchairs.
Minimum Width
The minimum width of a wheelchair ramp is 36 inches, according to ADA standards. This ensures enough space for a wheelchair user to navigate the ramp safely. Additionally, the ramp should have level landings at the top and bottom that are at least as wide as the ramp.
Maximum Rise
The maximum rise of a wheelchair ramp set by ADA standards is 30 inches. If a building entrance rises more than 30 inches, a series of shorter ramps or a vertical platform lift may be necessary. Therefore, contact our ramp technicians to ensure these considerations are implemented immediately.
Landings
As mentioned above, level landings are required at the top and bottom of a wheelchair ramp. In addition, a landing is required for every 30 inches of rise. The minimum size of a dock is 60 inches by 60 inches, although a larger landing is recommended to allow for more space for turning and maneuvering.
Cross Slope
The cross slope of a wheelchair ramp, which is the slope perpendicular to the direction of travel, must be no more than 1:48. This ensures that the ramp is level from side to side and reduces the risk of a wheelchair user tipping over.
Edge Protection
To ensure the safety of wheelchair users, the edges of a wheelchair ramp must be protected by a curb, rail, or another barrier. The height of the edge protection should be at least 2 inches but no more than 4 inches.
Handrails
ADA requirements specify that wheelchair ramps must have handrails on both sides. The railings provide support and stability for individuals using the ramp, enhancing faster mobility.
Surface
The surface of the ramp is also an essential factor to consider when designing an ADA-compliant wheelchair ramp. The ADA requires that the ramp surface be slip-resistant and provide excellent traction, even when wet. This ensures wheelchair users can safely navigate the ramp, even in inclement weather conditions. The surface of the ramp should also be free of any bumps, cracks, or other obstacles that could pose a safety hazard to wheelchair users. The ramp surface must also be firm and stable to prevent the wheelchair from tipping.
REDD Team wheelchair ramps comply with ADA, OSHA, and IBC standards. They are designed to enable people with mobility challenges to easily access commercial and industrial facilities. As a building owner or manager, installing ADA and OSHA-compliant access products in your building is essential.
Please get in touch with REDD Team today to learn more about ADA wheelchair ramp slope requirements.
