Safety With Wheelchair Ramp Codes

Wheelchair ramps are often installed in addition to stairs. Their purpose is to accommodate or allow handicapped individuals to access buildings. These individuals can be wheelchair users; people who using crutches, canes and walkers; or people pushing carts, strollers or any wheeled objects. There are many kinds of wheelchair ramps, which serve different uses and situations. The basic types include permanent ramps, semi-permanent ramps and the portable ramps.

In particular, the installation of permanent wheelchair ramps requires specific codes and permits. Standards may vary according to region, zone or even country. In the United States, the American with Disabilities Association (ADA) has certain codes for the building requirements for wheelchair ramps. Generally, their Uniform Building Code states that wheelchair ramp slopes must not exceed a 1:8 ratio. Meaning, for each inch of rise, the ramp has to be at least 8 inches in length.

However, if the ramp needs to be 10 inches from the ground, the length of the wheelchair ramp should have a minimum of 80 inches. This is actually the minimum standard for building codes, not the recommended one. The recommended slope must be not exceed a 1:12 ratio.

In cases that the slope exceeds a 1:15 ratio, a handrail is mandatory. The handrail should have a minimum height of 34 inches from the ramp surface, but should not be greater than 38 inches. Also, the clearance must be at least 40mm from the wall, or whichever vertical surface it is attached to.

Take note that the ramp floor must be made from slip-resistant material. If the surface is not slip-resistant, the building code necessitate for it to be sanded.

Also, every 29 feet and 6 inches (length) of ramp needs a landing, which has to be at least 47 inches in length. If the ramp changes in direction, a landing should also be constructed (minimum of 60x60 inches).

Safety is assured if the codes are strictly followed.