Handrail Requirements for Ramps

ADA standards do not require sidewalk ramps to have side ends, but limit the slope (maximum 1:10) where they are intended. Side torches are recommended when pedestrian traffic can cross routes to avoid tripping hazards. Side flares are essential for changes when there is no space available for an upper landing (at least 36″ deep). In this case, side flares (maximum inclination of 1:12) are required to enable wheelchair maneuvers, which occur partially with flares when there is no full landing space at the top, unless there is a parallel sidewalk ramp. Elevated intersections, where applicable, eliminate the need for ramps while reducing traffic speed. Check local standards for application requirements, including slope for vehicular traffic, height and markings. Sidewalk ramps must be aligned so that the slope fracture is perpendicular to the sidewalk ramp to ensure a smooth transition to the road, even in wide-radius bends. The sidewalk ramp opening can be aligned with the sidewalk line (left) or more directionally with the crosswalk (right). Constructed ramps are permitted, but must not protrude into parking lots, access crossings or lanes. An upper bearing of at least 36 inches deep is required for all sidewalk ramps constructed. Recommendation: Vertical sidewalk ramps are preferred over diagonal ramps.

If the radius is not large enough, it can be difficult to locate the clear space at the bottom of the diagonal sidewalk ramps outside the active lanes. Orientation can also mislead visually impaired people who use curbs as an indication of intersections. Stops between runways must be at least 60″ wide and 60″ long, with ramps changing direction (any change of linear). Handrails, edge guards, vertical posts and other elements shall not obstruct or overlap the distance of at least 60″ x 60″. Handrail extensions of at least 12 inches required at the top and bottom of ramps must be in the same direction of the barrel, but they may rotate or wind where the handrails are continuous on the inner curve of dogleg or serpentine ramps. The curb ramps may have brought the sides back, but a top landing is necessary in all conditions to allow manoeuvring to and from the runway. Ramps and ramps are required along accessible roads for bridge level changes of more than 1/2.” Lifts and, under certain conditions, lifting platforms may be used alternatively. Sections of accessible roads with a gradient greater than 5% must also be treated as ramps.

No, only a minimum (36″) is required in handrails. The standards do not require medium or intermediate handrails on wide ramps. The curb ramp requirements apply to ramps that cut through or are constructed around sidewalks. The new guidelines developed by the Public Rights-of-Way Board will continue to address ramps along public roads and sidewalks, but are not addressed in this guide. The DOJ`s ADA 2010 standards require that ramps on newly constructed or modified street-level roads, highways, and walkways provide an accessible pedestrian lane at intersections (28 CFR 35.151(i)). Yes, handrails can be mounted on guardrails if all applicable requirements are met. There is no need to install continuous extension cords along serpentine or dogleg ramps or aisle ramps serving seating in staging areas. In the case of conversions where the required extension would protrude dangerously into the traffic lanes, they may turn, be shorter or be avoided. Otherwise, the handrail extensions must go in the same direction as the ramp. On tracks and platforms, the minimum width of light between the leading edge of handrails shall be measured. This also applies to landings, which must be at least 60″ x 60″, where the ramps change direction so that the minimum landing zone remains free.

A bearing at least 36 inches long at the top of sidewalk ramps provides space to move in or out of ramps and turn without encountering compound slopes from flared sides. Side torches are mainly used to avoid tripping hazards. They are not designed for wheelchair maneuvers, except for modifications where space constraints prevent a compliant landing from above. Maybe you have an area that needs a longer ramp and doesn`t meet the basic requirements. In this case, you need a ramp with landing areas where people in manual wheelchairs can rest. Keep in mind that even if you have to build zigzag ramps with ramp bearings, they can be stressful and difficult for many people, so try to keep this effort as low as possible for people with disabilities. You need to observe both the maximum slope and consider the impact on individuals when using the ramp track. Handrails on ramps in staging areas may be discontinuous and have no extensions to allow access to seats and aisle intersections. (§505.3, §505.10) Our photo on the left shows an incomplete and therefore dangerous access ramp: the railing is only on one side of the raised ramp or walkway and there was no tangible handrail. Ramps without flat bearings when changing direction usually do not meet standards due to the resulting composite inclinations.

This includes most circular or curved ramps, unless the radius is large enough for the cross slope to conform and compound slopes to be avoided. Otherwise, the curvature and inclination will result in uneven surfaces that will make it difficult to maneuver the wheelchair, as not all wheels rest evenly on the surface. Now that we`ve reviewed the baseline requirements for accessible ramps and trails, it`s time to look at handrail requirements. This list includes the things you need to know to make your handrail extensions compliant: An important area of accessibility for businesses is handrail requirements and ramp regulations. Without proper ramps and railings, people in wheelchairs or with other disabilities may have difficulty getting in and out of your building. If ramps are placed diagonally at an intersection, it is important that there be at least 48 inches of clear space at the bottom, which is outside active vehicle lanes and inside marked intersections, if applicable. On both sides of curbside ramps, a curb segment of at least 24 inches in length must be provided behind the torches with side flares inside the marked intersections. This segment of sidewalk provides an orientation indication at intersections for the visually impaired. No, the standards limit the climb of each runway (maximum 30″), but not the total length of ramps composed of several runways.

Since the ease of use of ramps decreases with increasing length, very long ramp systems should be avoided if possible. (Ramps in playgrounds are limited to a maximum increase of 12 inches.) This guide explains the basics of ramp and handrail rules. If you are considering installing wheelchair ramps, handrail extensions, or ADA signs, you should consult experts. Visit the ADA Central blog for more answers to your questions, or start with helpful products to improve accessibility. We offer custom ADA panels. Side torches can be provided to avoid tripping hazards. Edge protection is not specified for ramps. According to Chapter Four of the ADA Accessibility Standards, ramps and sidewalk ramps are required for level changes greater than half an inch. While this may not seem like a significant change in height, people who use wheelchairs and other accessibility and mobility devices need to be able to enter, and without a ramp, they may not be able to. Under ADA standards, which apply primarily to on-site facilities, recognizable warnings are required in transit facilities (at ramps and along open slopes of terminal boarding platforms). In particular, ramp requirements apply only to public transportation facilities covered by DOT ADA standards.

Ramps to all other facilities do not need to be equipped with perceptible warnings. The Commission`s new right-of-way guidelines will address recognizable warnings on ramps and other transitions along public roads and sidewalks. In addition, DOT requires visible warnings on ramps in projects funded by the Federal Highway Administration. Recommendation: Protect the edges on the sides of mounted sidewalk ramps to avoid the risk of tipping. If not, consider a larger ramp width (at least 48″) so that maneuvers do not occur near collisions. Revealing warnings are required at ramps in transit facilities that fall under DOT standards (facilities used by state and local governments to provide designated public transportation services such as train and bus stations).