The Americans with Disabilities Act has a thorough layout on how to get ramps ready at any site. The ADA requires ramps in spaces where the elevation change is at least half an inch. It is often hard for wheelchairs to overcome half-inch shifts, so a ramp is necessary for many of these spots. REDD Team recognizes the importance of these ramps and can design and build a new one for your location. We’ll ship your ramp to your location, and you can then install it in as little as one day.
We meet all ADA standards for accessible ramps here at REDD Team. Here are some of the guidelines we follow for a ramp.
Slope
The slope refers to the slant on the ramp. A slope with a lower number means that the ramp will be steeper.
The numbers refer to how many inches in length a ramp can be for every inch the ramp rises. The maximum slope, according to ADA standards, is 1:12, so the ramp can go twelve inches for each inch of rise.
Steeper slopes are acceptable in spaces where room is limited. For example, a 1:10 slope can work for ramps up to six inches high, and a 1:8 slope is for ramps up to three inches.
Maximum Run Height
Next there is the run, a measure of how long the ramp goes. A run can go as high as 30 inches, meaning the ramp can keep going in one direction until the user goes up by 30 inches.
For cases where the desired rise is over 30 inches, the ramp will require two separate runs. A landing will appear midway through the ramp to break the run into two segments.
Landing
This point leads to the landings around the ramp. The landings at the top and bottom parts of the ramp must be at least 60 inches long and as wide as the ramp itself. The landings should also have no change in height. Any intermediate landings midway through the ramp should also be at least 60 inches long.
Landings are also necessary in spots where the direction changes. Any ramp at a shift in direction must be at least 60 inches on each side.
Width
ADA rules state the ramp should be at least 36 inches wide. The width is measured between the inside ends of the rails on the sides.
Rails
Handrails are needed on both sides of the ramp if the rise is six inches or higher. The handrails should be around 34 to 38 inches at the top.
A lower handrail for places where children might be present is also recommended. That handrail should have a maximum height of 28 inches.
There should also be a continuation of that ramp of at least 12 inches on each end. This feature gives a wheelchair easier access to the landings.
Edge Protection
The last ADA standard to follow entails edge protection on the sides. There should be a barrier that keeps items greater than four inches in size from escaping the surface.
These rules are essential to follow when getting an ADA-compliant ramp ready. REDD Team will be ready to help you get your ramp prepared based on ADA standards. You can contact us at 800-648-3696 or through our website to schedule an appointment for service.
