The 2023 Code of Georgia has various accessibility rules for properties around the state to follow. One of these rules involves the use of ramps in properties. Any spaces where a wheelchair cannot overcome a physical barrier will require ramps. All surfaces with a slope of 1:20 or greater are also considered ramps.
Georgia’s rules for wheelchair ramps are thorough and cover many points, so knowing how to handle these features is critical to keeping your space accessible. REDD Team can build new aluminum wheelchair ramps for your Georgia property while following all state-specific rules for a ramp.
Slope Rules
The basic rule for a ramp slope in Georgia is to keep the slope at 1:12 at the most. Older properties where a 1:12 slope ramp would be impossible to install can use a slightly steeper ramp, but only if the rise is short enough. For instance, a 1:10 slope is appropriate when the slope is less than six inches in rise, and a 1:8 slope works for ramps half as high.
Width Plans
A ramp should be at least 36 inches wide in between the handrails. This Georgia code rule is for ensuring your ramp can support most wheelchairs.
Appropriate Landings
Georgia code also requires ramps to have landings at the top and bottom, with each landing being at least 60 inches long. The landing must be level with the rest of the ramp, plus there should be a slight extension of the handrails on the sides to show where the landings are. These landings must also be placed at least 22 inches away from the opening radius of any door in an area.
Landings can also appear in the middle of a ramp. A landing can work when the direction of the ramp changes or the ramp run is greater than 30 feet long. The midway landing should be 60 inches long and as wide as the rest of the ramp. For ones where the direction changes, all sides should be 60 inches long.
Using the Handrails
Handrails are necessary on all ramps where the rise is greater than six inches or has a horizontal projection of at least 72 inches. The top of the handrail surface should be from 34 to 38 inches high, and there should be 1.5 inches of space between a handrail and any wall surface.
The handrails should also have an outside diameter of anywhere from 32 to 51 mm. This size is enough for an average person’s hands to hold onto the rail without risking slipping during use.
A Proper Design
All ramps in Georgia must be designed so that wet conditions will not be a problem. In addition to edge protection materials that keep objects four inches or greater from slipping out, you’ll require vents around different portions where flooding could occur. REDD Team can review your construction setup and determine a suitable design for how well the ramp can keep water from building up.
REDD Team will help you get more from your ramps at your Georgia property. Talk with us about your needs for a ramp, and we will find a solution that works for you. You can reach us online or by phone at 800-648-3696.
