wefew

Department of Justice

28 CFR Part 36

Revised as of July 1, 1994

Nondiscrimination on the Basis ofDisability by Public Accommodationsand in Commercial Facilities

code

of

fede

ral re

gulat

ions repr

int

Excerpt from 28 CFR Part 36:

ADA Standards forAccessible Design

Pt. 36, App. A 28 CFR Ch. I (7-1-94 Edition)

APPENDIX A TO PART 36 -- STANDARDS FOR ACCESSIBLE DESIGN

ADA ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINESFOR BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. PURPOSE ....................................................................................... 1

2. GENERAL ....................................................................................... 1

2.1 Provisions for Adults ............................................................................................. 12.2* Equivalent Facilitation. ....................................................................................... 1

3. MISCELLANEOUS INSTRUCTIONS AND DEFINITIONS..................... 1

3.1 Graphic Conventions ............................................................................................. 13.2 Dimensional Tolerances ........................................................................................ 23.3 Notes ...................................................................................................................... 23.4 General Terminology ............................................................................................. 23.5 Definitions ............................................................................................................. 2

4. ACCESSIBLE ELEMENTS AND SPACES:SCOPE AND TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS ...................................... 5

4.1 Minimum Requirements ........................................................................................ 5

4.1.1* Application ............................................................................................... 54.1.2 Accessible Sites and Exterior Facilities: New Construction.................... 54.1.3 Accessible Buildings: New Construction .................................................. 74.1.4 (Reserved) ................................................................................................. 104.1.5 Accessible Buildings: Additions ............................................................. 104.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations. .......................................................... 114.1.7 Accessible Buildings: Historic Preservation .......................................... 13

4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges ................................................................... 144.3 Accessible Route ................................................................................................. 154.4 Protruding Objects .............................................................................................. 214.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces ................................................................................. 224.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones............................................................... 244.7 Curb Ramps ......................................................................................................... 264.8 Ramps .................................................................................................................. 274.9 Stairs .................................................................................................................... 304.10 Elevators ............................................................................................................ 30

i

490

Pt. 36, App. ADepartment of Justice

4.11 Platform Lifts (Wheelchair Lifts) ....................................................................... 364.12 Windows ............................................................................................................. 364.13 Doors .................................................................................................................. 364.14 Entrances ........................................................................................................... 404.15 Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers ............................................................ 404.16 Water Closets ..................................................................................................... 404.17 Toilet Stalls ........................................................................................................ 414.18 Urinals ................................................................................................................ 444.19 Lavatories and Mirrors ...................................................................................... 444.20 Bathtubs............................................................................................................. 454.21 Shower Stalls ..................................................................................................... 454.22 Toilet Rooms ...................................................................................................... 454.23 Bathrooms, Bathing Facilities, and Shower Rooms ......................................... 484.24 Sinks .................................................................................................................. 494.25 Storage ............................................................................................................... 494.26 Handrails, Grab Bars, and Tub and Shower Seats ............................................ 504.27 Controls and Operating Mechanisms ............................................................... 514.28 Alarms ................................................................................................................ 524.29 Detectable Warnings .......................................................................................... 534.30 Signage ............................................................................................................... 534.31 Telephones ......................................................................................................... 544.32 Fixed or Built-in Seating and Tables ................................................................. 564.33 Assembly Areas ................................................................................................. 564.34 Automated Teller Machines............................................................................... 584.35 Dressing and Fitting Rooms.............................................................................. 58

5. RESTAURANTS AND CAFETERIAS ................................................ 59

6. MEDICAL CARE FACILITIES ......................................................... 60

7. BUSINESS AND MERCANTILE....................................................... 61

8. LIBRARIES................................................................................... 62

9. ACCESSIBLE TRANSIENT LODGING ............................................. 63

10.TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES .................................................... 67

APPENDIX ......................................................................................... A1

ii

491


492

1. PURPOSE. 2. GENERAL.

3. MISCELLANEOUSINSTRUCTIONS ANDDEFINITIONS.

3.1 Graphic Conventions. Graphicconventions are shown in Table 1. Dimen-sions that are not marked minimum ormaximum are absolute, unless otherwiseindicated in the text or captions.

This document sets guidelines for accessibil-ity to places of public accommodation andcommercial facilities by individuals withdisabilities. These guidelines are to be appliedduring the design, construction, and alter-ation of such buildings and facilities to theextent required by regulations issued byFederal agencies, including the Department ofJustice, under the Americans with DisabilitiesAct of 1990.

The technical specifications 4.2 through 4.35,of these guidelines are the same as those ofthe American National Standard Institutesdocument A117.1-1980, except as noted in thistext by italics. However, sections 4.1.1 through4.1.7 and sections 5 through 10 are differentfrom ANSI A117.1 in their entirety and areprinted in standard type.

The illustrations and text of ANSI A117.1 arereproduced with permission from the Ameri-can National Standards Institute. Copies ofthe standard may be purchased from theAmerican National Standards Institute at1430 Broadway, New York, New York 10018.

2.1 Provisions for Adults. The specifica-tions in these guidelines are based upon adultdimensions and anthropometrics.

2.2* Equivalent Facilitation. Departuresfrom particular technical and scoping require-ments of this guideline by the use of otherdesigns and technologies are permitted wherethe alternative designs and technologies usedwill provide substantially equivalent orgreater access to and usability of the facility.

1


493

3.2 Dimensional Tolerances. All dimen-sions are subject to conventional buildingindustry tolerances for field conditions.

3.3 Notes. The text of these guidelines doesnot contain notes or footnotes. Additionalinformation, explanations, and advisorymaterials are located in the Appendix. Para-graphs marked with an asterisk have related,nonmandatory material in the Appendix. Inthe Appendix, the corresponding paragraphnumbers are preceded by an A.

3.4 General Terminology.

comply with. Meet one or more specificationsof these guidelines.

if, if ... then. Denotes a specification thatapplies only when the conditions describedare present.

may. Denotes an option or alternative.

shall. Denotes a mandatory specification orrequirement.

should. Denotes an advisory specification orrecommendation.

3.5 Definitions.

Access Aisle. An accessible pedestrian spacebetween elements, such as parking spaces,seating, and desks, that provides clearancesappropriate for use of the elements.

Accessible. Describes a site, building, facility,or portion thereof that complies with theseguidelines.

Accessible Element. An element specified bythese guidelines (for example, telephone,controls, and the like).

Accessible Route. A continuous unob-structed path connecting all accessibleelements and spaces of a building or facility.Interior accessible routes may include corri-dors, floors, ramps, elevators, lifts, and clearfloor space at fixtures. Exterior accessibleroutes may include parking access aisles,curb ramps, crosswalks at vehicular ways,walks, ramps, and lifts.

3.4 General Terminology

Accessible Space. Space that complies withthese guidelines.

Adaptability. The ability of certain buildingspaces and elements, such as kitchencounters, sinks, and grab bars, to be added oraltered so as to accommodate the needs ofindividuals with or without disabilities or toaccommodate the needs of persons withdifferent types or degrees of disability.

Addition. An expansion, extension, or in-crease in the gross floor area of a building orfacility.

Administrative Authority. A governmentalagency that adopts or enforces regulationsand guidelines for the design, construction, oralteration of buildings and facilities.

Alteration. An alteration is a change to abuilding or facility made by, on behalf of, orfor the use of a public accommodation orcommercial facility, that affects or couldaffect the usability of the building or facilityor part thereof. Alterations include, but arenot limited to, remodeling, renovation, reha-bilitation, reconstruction, historic restoration,changes or rearrangement of the structuralparts or elements, and changes or rearrange-ment in the plan configuration of walls andfull-height partitions. Normal maintenance,reroofing, painting or wallpapering, orchanges to mechanical and electrical sys-tems are not alterations unless they affectthe usability of the building or facility.

Area of Rescue Assistance. An area, whichhas direct access to an exit, where people whoare unable to use stairs may remain tempo-rarily in safety to await further instructions orassistance during emergency evacuation.

Assembly Area. A room or space accommodat-ing a group of individuals for recreational,educational, political, social, or amusementpurposes, or for the consumption of food anddrink.

Automatic Door. A door equipped with apower-operated mechanism and controls thatopen and close the door automatically uponreceipt of a momentary actuating signal. Theswitch that begins the automatic cycle may bea photoelectric device, floor mat, or manualswitch (see power-assisted door).

2


494

Building. Any structure used and intended forsupporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.

Circulation Path. An exterior or interior wayof passage from one place to another forpedestrians, including, but not limited to,walks, hallways, courtyards, stairways, andstair landings.

Clear. Unobstructed.

Clear Floor Space. The minimum unob-structed floor or ground space required toaccommodate a single, stationary wheelchairand occupant.

Closed Circuit Telephone. A telephone withdedicated line(s) such as a house phone,courtesy phone or phone that must be used togain entrance to a facility.

Common Use. Refers to those interior andexterior rooms, spaces, or elements that aremade available for the use of a restricted groupof people (for example, occupants of a home-less shelter, the occupants of an office build-ing, or the guests of such occupants).

Cross Slope. The slope that is perpendicularto the direction of travel (see running slope).

Curb Ramp. A short ramp cutting through acurb or built up to it.

Detectable Warning. A standardized surfacefeature built in or applied to walking surfacesor other elements to warn visually impairedpeople of hazards on a circulation path.

Dwelling Unit. A single unit which provides akitchen or food preparation area, in addition torooms and spaces for living, bathing, sleeping,and the like. Dwelling units include a singlefamily home or a townhouse used as atransient group home; an apartment buildingused as a shelter; guestrooms in a hotel thatprovide sleeping accommodations and foodpreparation areas; and other similar facilitiesused on a transient basis. For purposes ofthese guidelines, use of the term DwellingUnit does not imply the unit is used as aresidence.

Egress, Means of. A continuous and unob-structed way of exit travel from any point in abuilding or facility to a public way. A means ofegress comprises vertical and horizontal

travel and may include intervening roomspaces, doorways, hallways, corridors, pas-sageways, balconies, ramps, stairs, enclosures,lobbies, horizontal exits, courts and yards. Anaccessible means of egress is one that com-plies with these guidelines and does not in-clude stairs, steps, or escalators. Areas of res-cue assistance or evacuation elevators may beincluded as part of accessible means of egress.

Element. An architectural or mechanicalcomponent of a building, facility, space, or site,e.g., telephone, curb ramp, door, drinkingfountain, seating, or water closet.

Entrance. Any access point to a building orportion of a building or facility used for thepurpose of entering. An entrance includes theapproach walk, the vertical access leading tothe entrance platform, the entrance platformitself, vestibules if provided, the entry door(s) orgate(s), and the hardware of the entry door(s)or gate(s).

Facility. All or any portion of buildings, struc-tures, site improvements, complexes, equip-ment, roads, walks, passageways, parking lots,or other real or personal property located on asite.

Ground Floor. Any occupiable floor less thanone story above or below grade with directaccess to grade. A building or facility alwayshas at least one ground floor and may havemore than one ground floor as where a splitlevel entrance has been provided or where abuilding is built into a hillside.

Mezzanine or Mezzanine Floor. That portionof a story which is an intermediate floor levelplaced within the story and having occupiablespace above and below its floor.

Marked Crossing. A crosswalk or otheridentified path intended for pedestrian use incrossing a vehicular way.

Multifamily Dwelling. Any building contain-ing more than two dwelling units.

Occupiable. A room or enclosed space de-signed for human occupancy in which indi-viduals congregate for amusement, educa-tional or similar purposes, or in which occu-pants are engaged at labor, and which isequipped with means of egress, light, andventilation.

3.5 Definitions

3


495

Operable Part. A part of a piece of equipmentor appliance used to insert or withdraw objects,or to activate, deactivate, or adjust the equip-ment or appliance (for example, coin slot,pushbutton, handle).

Path of Travel. (Reserved).

Power-assisted Door. A door used for humanpassage with a mechanism that helps to openthe door, or relieves the opening resistance of adoor, upon the activation of a switch or acontinued force applied to the door itself.

Public Use. Describes interior or exteriorrooms or spaces that are made available to thegeneral public. Public use may be provided at abuilding or facility that is privately or publiclyowned.

Ramp. A walking surface which has a runningslope greater than 1:20.

Running Slope. The slope that is parallel tothe direction of travel (see cross slope).

Service Entrance. An entrance intendedprimarily for delivery of goods or services.

Signage. Displayed verbal, symbolic, tactile,and pictorial information.

Site. A parcel of land bounded by a propertyline or a designated portion of a publicright-of-way.

Site Improvement. Landscaping, paving forpedestrian and vehicular ways, outdoor light-ing, recreational facilities, and the like, addedto a site.

Sleeping Accommodations. Rooms in whichpeople sleep; for example, dormitory and hotelor motel guest rooms or suites.

Space. A definable area, e.g., room, toiletroom, hall, assembly area, entrance, storageroom, alcove, courtyard, or lobby.

Story. That portion of a building includedbetween the upper surface of a floor and uppersurface of the floor or roof next above. If such

portion of a building does not include occupi-able space, it is not considered a story forpurposes of these guidelines. There may bemore than one floor level within a story as inthe case of a mezzanine or mezzanines.

Structural Frame. The structural frame shallbe considered to be the columns and thegirders, beams, trusses and spandrels havingdirect connections to the columns and allother members which are essential to thestability of the building as a whole.

Tactile. Describes an object that can beperceived using the sense of touch.

Text Telephone. Machinery or equipmentthat employs interactive graphic (i.e., typed)communications through the transmission ofcoded signals across the standard telephonenetwork. Text telephones can include, forexample, devices known as TDDs (telecommu-nication display devices or telecommunica-tion devices for deaf persons) or computers.

Transient Lodging. A building, facility, orportion thereof, excluding inpatient medicalcare facilities, that contains one or moredwelling units or sleeping accommodations.Transient lodging may include, but is notlimited to, resorts, group homes, hotels,motels, and dormitories.

Vehicular Way. A route intended for vehiculartraffic, such as a street, driveway, or parkinglot.

Walk. An exterior pathway with a preparedsurface intended for pedestrian use, includinggeneral pedestrian areas such as plazas andcourts.

NOTE: Sections 4.1.1 through 4.1.7 aredifferent from ANSI A117.1 in their entirety andare printed in standard type (ANSI A117.1 doesnot include scoping provisions).

3.5 Definitions

4


496

4. ACCESSIBLE ELEMENTSAND SPACES: SCOPE ANDTECHNICALREQUIREMENTS.

4.1 Minimum Requirements

4.1.1* Application.

(1) General. All areas of newly designed ornewly constructed buildings and facilitiesrequired to be accessible by 4.1.2 and 4.1.3 andaltered portions of existing buildings andfacilities required to be accessible by 4.1.6shall comply with these guidelines, 4.1through 4.35, unless otherwise provided inthis section or as modified in a special applica-tion section.

(2) Application Based on Building Use.Special application sections 5 through 10provide additional requirements for restau-rants and cafeterias, medical care facilities,business and mercantile, libraries, accessibletransient lodging, and transportation facilities.When a building or facility contains more thanone use covered by a special applicationsection, each portion shall comply with therequirements for that use.

(3)* Areas Used Only by Employees as WorkAreas. Areas that are used only as work areasshall be designed and constructed so thatindividuals with disabilities can approach,enter, and exit the areas. These guidelines donot require that any areas used only as workareas be constructed to permit maneuveringwithin the work area or be constructed orequipped (i.e., with racks or shelves) to beaccessible.

(4) Temporary Structures. These guidelinescover temporary buildings or facilities as wellas permanent facilities. Temporary buildingsand facilities are not of permanent construc-tion but are extensively used or are essentialfor public use for a period of time. Examples oftemporary buildings or facilities covered bythese guidelines include, but are not limited to:reviewing stands, temporary classrooms,bleacher areas, exhibit areas, temporarybanking facilities, temporary health screeningservices, or temporary safe pedestrian passage-ways around a construction site. Structures,

sites and equipment directly associated withthe actual processes of construction, such asscaffolding, bridging, materials hoists, orconstruction trailers are not included.

(5) General Exceptions.

(a) In new construction, a person or entity isnot required to meet fully the requirements ofthese guidelines where that person or entitycan demonstrate that it is structurally imprac-ticable to do so. Full compliance will be consid-ered structurally impracticable only in thoserare circumstances when the unique charac-teristics of terrain prevent the incorporation ofaccessibility features. If full compliance withthe requirements of these guidelines is struc-turally impracticable, a person or entity shallcomply with the requirements to the extent itis not structurally impracticable. Any portionof the building or facility which can be madeaccessible shall comply to the extent that it isnot structurally impracticable.

(b) Accessibility is not required to (i) obser-vation galleries used primarily for securitypurposes; or (ii) in non-occupiable spacesaccessed only by ladders, catwalks, crawlspaces, very narrow passageways, or freight(non-passenger) elevators, and frequented onlyby service personnel for repair purposes; suchspaces include, but are not limited to, elevatorpits, elevator penthouses, piping or equipmentcatwalks.

4.1.2 Accessible Sites and ExteriorFacilities: New Construction. An accessiblesite shall meet the following minimum require-ments:

(1) At least one accessible route complyingwith 4.3 shall be provided within the boundaryof the site from public transportation stops,accessible parking spaces, passenger loadingzones if provided, and public streets or side-walks, to an accessible building entrance.

(2) At least one accessible route complyingwith 4.3 shall connect accessible buildings,accessible facilities, accessible elements, andaccessible spaces that are on the same site.

(3) All objects that protrude from surfaces orposts into circulation paths shall comply with4.4.

5

4.0 Accessible Elements and Spaces: Scope and Technical Requirements


497

(4) Ground surfaces along accessible routesand in accessible spaces shall comply with 4.5.

(5) (a) If parking spaces are provided forself-parking by employees or visitors, or both,then accessible spaces complying with 4.6shall be provided in each such parking area inconformance with the table below. Spacesrequired by the table need not be provided inthe particular lot. They may be provided in adifferent location if equivalent or greateraccessibility, in terms of distance from anaccessible entrance, cost and convenience isensured.

RequiredTotal Parking Minimum Number

in Lot of Accessible Spaces

1 to 25 126 to 50 251 to 75 376 to 100 4101 to 150 5151 to 200 6201 to 300 7301 to 400 8401 to 500 9501 to 1000 2 percent of total

1001 and over 20, plus 1 for each100 over 1000

Except as provided in (b), access aisles adja-cent to accessible spaces shall be 60 in (1525mm) wide minimum.

(b) One in every eight accessible spaces, butnot less than one, shall be served by an accessaisle 96 in (2440 mm) wide minimum and shallbe designated van accessible as required by4.6.4. The vertical clearance at such spacesshall comply with 4.6.5. All such spaces maybe grouped on one level of a parking structure.

EXCEPTION: Provision of all required parkingspaces in conformance with Universal Park-ing Design (see appendix A4.6.3) is permitted.

(c) If passenger loading zones are provided,then at least one passenger loading zone shallcomply with 4.6.6.

(d) At facilities providing medical care andother services for persons with mobilityimpairments, parking spaces complying with4.6 shall be provided in accordance with

4.1.2(5)(a) except as follows:

(i) Outpatient units and facilities: 10percent of the total number of parking spacesprovided serving each such outpatient unit orfacility;

(ii) Units and facilities that specialize intreatment or services for persons with mobil-ity impairments: 20 percent of the total num-ber of parking spaces provided serving eachsuch unit or facility.

(e)* Valet parking: Valet parking facilitiesshall provide a passenger loading zone com-plying with 4.6.6 located on an accessibleroute to the entrance of the facility. Para-graphs 5(a), 5(b), and 5(d) of this section donot apply to valet parking facilities.

(6) If toilet facilities are provided on a site,then each such public or common use toiletfacility shall comply with 4.22. If bathingfacilities are provided on a site, then eachsuch public or common use bathing facilityshall comply with 4.23.

For single user portable toilet or bathing unitsclustered at a single location, at least 5% butno less than one toilet unit or bathing unitcomplying with 4.22 or 4.23 shall be installedat each cluster whenever typical inaccessibleunits are provided.

Accessible units shall be identified by theInternational Symbol of Accessibility.

EXCEPTION: Portable toilet units at construc-tion sites used exclusively by constructionpersonnel are not required to comply with4.1.2(6).

(7) Building Signage. Signs which designatepermanent rooms and spaces shall complywith 4.30.1, 4.30.4, 4.30.5 and 4.30.6. Othersigns which provide direction to, or informa-tion about, functional spaces of the buildingshall comply with 4.30.1, 4.30.2, 4.30.3, and4.30.5. Elements and spaces of accessiblefacilities which shall be identified by theInternational Symbol of Accessibility andwhich shall comply with 4.30.7 are:

(a) Parking spaces designated as reservedfor individuals with disabilities;

6

4.1.2 Accessible Sites and Exterior Facilities: New Construction


498

(b) Accessible passenger loading zones;

(c) Accessible entrances when not all areaccessible (inaccessible entrances shall havedirectional signage to indicate the route to thenearest accessible entrance);

(d) Accessible toilet and bathing facilitieswhen not all are accessible.

4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: NewConstruction. Accessible buildings andfacilities shall meet the following minimumrequirements:

(1) At least one accessible route complyingwith 4.3 shall connect accessible building orfacility entrances with all accessible spacesand elements within the building or facility.

(2) All objects that overhang or protrude intocirculation paths shall comply with 4.4.

(3) Ground and floor surfaces along acces-sible routes and in accessible rooms andspaces shall comply with 4.5.

(4) Interior and exterior stairs connectinglevels that are not connected by an elevator,ramp, or other accessible means of verticalaccess shall comply with 4.9.

(5)* One passenger elevator complying with4.10 shall serve each level, including mezza-nines, in all multi-story buildings and facilitiesunless exempted below. If more than oneelevator is provided, each full passengerelevator shall comply with 4.10.

EXCEPTION 1: Elevators are not required infacilities that are less than three stories or thathave less than 3000 square feet per storyunless the building is a shopping center, ashopping mall, or the professional office of ahealth care provider, or another type of facilityas determined by the Attorney General. Theelevator exemption set forth in this paragraphdoes not obviate or limit in any way the obliga-tion to comply with the other accessibilityrequirements established in section 4.1.3. Forexample, floors above or below the accessibleground floor must meet the requirements ofthis section except for elevator service. If toiletor bathing facilities are provided on a level notserved by an elevator, then toilet or bathingfacilities must be provided on the accessible

ground floor. In new construction if a buildingor facility is eligible for this exemption but afull passenger elevator is nonetheless planned,that elevator shall meet the requirements of4.10 and shall serve each level in the building.A full passenger elevator that provides servicefrom a garage to only one level of a building orfacility is not required to serve other levels.

EXCEPTION 2: Elevator pits, elevator pent-houses, mechanical rooms, piping or equip-ment catwalks are exempted from this require-ment.

EXCEPTION 3: Accessible ramps complyingwith 4.8 may be used in lieu of an elevator.

EXCEPTION 4: Platform lifts (wheelchair lifts)complying with 4.11 of this guideline andapplicable state or local codes may be used inlieu of an elevator only under the followingconditions:

(a) To provide an accessible route to aperforming area in an assembly occupancy.(b) To comply with the wheelchair viewingposition line-of-sight and dispersion require-ments of 4.33.3.

(c) To provide access to incidental occupi-able spaces and rooms which are not open tothe general public and which house no morethan five persons, including but not limited toequipment control rooms and projectionbooths.

(d) To provide access where existing siteconstraints or other constraints make use of aramp or an elevator infeasible.

(6) Windows: (Reserved).

(7) Doors:

(a) At each accessible entrance to a buildingor facility, at least one door shall comply with4.13.

(b) Within a building or facility, at least onedoor at each accessible space shall complywith 4.13.

(c) Each door that is an element of anaccessible route shall comply with 4.13.

7

4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: New Construction


499

(d) Each door required by 4.3.10, Egress,shall comply with 4.13.

(8) In new construction, at a minimum, therequirements in (a) and (b) below shall besatisfied independently:

(a)(i) At least 50% of all public entrances(excluding those in (b) below) must be acces-sible. At least one must be a ground floorentrance. Public entrances are any entrancesthat are not loading or service entrances.

(ii) Accessible entrances must be providedin a number at least equivalent to the numberof exits required by the applicable building/firecodes. (This paragraph does not require anincrease in the total number of entrancesplanned for a facility.)

(iii) An accessible entrance must be pro-vided to each tenancy in a facility (for example,individual stores in a strip shopping center).

One entrance may be considered as meetingmore than one of the requirements in (a).Where feasible, accessible entrances shall bethe entrances used by the majority of peoplevisiting or working in the building.

(b)(i) In addition, if direct access is providedfor pedestrians from an enclosed parkinggarage to the building, at least one directentrance from the garage to the building mustbe accessible.

(ii) If access is provided for pedestriansfrom a pedestrian tunnel or elevated walkway,one entrance to the building from each tunnelor walkway must be accessible.

One entrance may be considered as meetingmore than one of the requirements in (b).

Because entrances also serve as emergencyexits whose proximity to all parts of buildingsand facilities is essential, it is preferable thatall entrances be accessible.

(c) If the only entrance to a building, ortenancy in a facility, is a service entrance, thatentrance shall be accessible.

(d) Entrances which are not accessible shallhave directional signage complying with 4.30.1,

4.30.2, 4.30.3, and 4.30.5, which indicates thelocation of the nearest accessible entrance.

(9)* In buildings or facilities, or portions ofbuildings or facilities, required to be acces-sible, accessible means of egress shall beprovided in the same number as required forexits by local building/life safety regulations.Where a required exit from an occupiable levelabove or below a level of accessible exit dis-charge is not accessible, an area of rescueassistance shall be provided on each such level(in a number equal to that of inaccessiblerequired exits). Areas of rescue assistanceshall comply with 4.3.11. A horizontal exit,meeting the requirements of local building/lifesafety regulations, shall satisfy the require-ment for an area of rescue assistance.

EXCEPTION: Areas of rescue assistance arenot required in buildings or facilities having asupervised automatic sprinkler system.

(10)* Drinking Fountains:

(a) Where only one drinking fountain isprovided on a floor there shall be a drinkingfountain which is accessible to individuals whouse wheelchairs in accordance with 4.15 andone accessible to those who have difficultybending or stooping. (This can be accommo-dated by the use of a hi-lo fountain; byproviding one fountain accessible to those whouse wheelchairs and one fountain at a standardheight convenient for those who have difficultybending; by providing a fountain accessibleunder 4.15 and a water cooler; or by such othermeans as would achieve the required accessi-bility for each group on each floor.)

(b) Where more than one drinking fountainor water cooler is provided on a floor, 50% ofthose provided shall comply with 4.15 andshall be on an accessible route.

(11) Toilet Facilities: If toilet rooms areprovided, then each public and common usetoilet room shall comply with 4.22. Other toiletrooms provided for the use of occupants ofspecific spaces (i.e., a private toilet room forthe occupant of a private office) shall be adapt-able. If bathing rooms are provided, then eachpublic and common use bathroom shallcomply with 4.23. Accessible toilet rooms andbathing facilities shall be on an accessibleroute.

8



500

Number of each type Number of telephonesof telephone provided required to comply with

on each floor 4.31.2 through 4.31.81

1 or more single unit 1 per floor

1 bank2 1 per floor

2 or more banks2 1 per bank. Accessibleunit may be installed as asingle unit in proximity(either visible or withsignage) to the bank.At least one public tele-phone per floor shall meetthe requirements for aforward reach telephone3.

1 Additional public telephones may be installedat any height. Unless otherwise specified,accessible telephones may be either forward orside reach telephones.

2 A bank consists of two or more adjacentpublic telephones, often installed as a unit.

3 EXCEPTION: For exterior installations only, ifdial tone first service is available, then a sidereach telephone may be installed instead of therequired forward reach telephone (i.e., onetelephone in proximity to each bank shallcomply with 4.31).

(b)* All telephones required to be accessibleand complying with 4.31.2 through 4.31.8 shallbe equipped with a volume control. In addition,25 percent, but never less than one, of all otherpublic telephones provided shall be equippedwith a volume control and shall be dispersedamong all types of public telephones, includingclosed circuit telephones, throughout thebuilding or facility. Signage complying withapplicable provisions of 4.30.7 shall be pro-vided.

(c) The following shall be provided in accor-dance with 4.31.9:

(i) if a total number of four or more publicpay telephones (including both interior andexterior phones) is provided at a site, and atleast one is in an interior location, then at leastone interior public text telephone shall beprovided.

(ii) if an interior public pay telephone isprovided in a stadium or arena, in a conventioncenter, in a hotel with a convention center, or

(12) Storage, Shelving and Display Units:

(a) If fixed or built-in storage facilities suchas cabinets, shelves, closets, and drawers areprovided in accessible spaces, at least one ofeach type provided shall contain storage spacecomplying with 4.25. Additional storage may beprovided outside of the dimensions required by4.25.

(b) Shelves or display units allowingself-service by customers in mercantile occu-pancies shall be located on an accessible routecomplying with 4.3. Requirements for acces-sible reach range do not apply.

(13) Controls and operating mechanisms inaccessible spaces, along accessible routes, oras parts of accessible elements (for example,light switches and dispenser controls) shallcomply with 4.27.

(14) If emergency warning systems areprovided, then they shall include both audiblealarms and visual alarms complying with 4.28.Sleeping accommodations required to complywith 9.3 shall have an alarm system complyingwith 4.28. Emergency warning systems inmedical care facilities may be modified to suitstandard health care alarm design practice.

(15) Detectable warnings shall be provided atlocations as specified in 4.29.

(16) Building Signage:

(a) Signs which designate permanent roomsand spaces shall comply with 4.30.1, 4.30.4,4.30.5 and 4.30.6.

(b) Other signs which provide direction to orinformation about functional spaces of thebuilding shall comply with 4.30.1, 4.30.2,4.30.3, and 4.30.5.

EXCEPTION: Building directories, menus, andall other signs which are temporary are notrequired to comply.

(17) Public telephones:

(a) If public pay telephones, public closedcircuit telephones, or other public telephonesare provided, then they shall comply with4.31.2 through 4.31.8 to the extent required bythe following table:


9


501

in a covered mall, at least one interior publictext telephone shall be provided in the facility.

(iii) if a public pay telephone is located in oradjacent to a hospital emergency room, hospi-tal recovery room, or hospital waiting room,one public text telephone shall be provided ateach such location.

(d) Where a bank of telephones in theinterior of a building consists of three or morepublic pay telephones, at least one public paytelephone in each such bank shall be equippedwith a shelf and outlet in compliance with4.31.9(2).

(18) If fixed or built-in seating or tables(including, but not limited to, study carrels andstudent laboratory stations), are provided inaccessible public or common use areas, atleast five percent (5%), but not less than one, ofthe fixed or built-in seating areas or tables shallcomply with 4.32. An accessible route shalllead to and through such fixed or built-inseating areas, or tables.

(19)* Assembly areas:

(a) In places of assembly with fixed seatingaccessible wheelchair locations shall complywith 4.33.2, 4.33.3, and 4.33.4 and shall beprovided consistent with the following table:

Capacity of Seating Number of Requiredin Assembly Areas Wheelchair Locations

4 to 25 126 to 50 251 to 300 4301 to 500 6over 500 6, plus 1 additional space

for each total seatingcapacity increase of 100

In addition, one percent, but not less than one,of all fixed seats shall be aisle seats with noarmrests on the aisle side, or removable orfolding armrests on the aisle side. Each suchseat shall be identified by a sign or marker.Signage notifying patrons of the availability ofsuch seats shall be posted at the ticket office.Aisle seats are not required to comply with4.33.4.

(b) This paragraph applies to assembly areaswhere audible communications are integral tothe use of the space (e.g., concert and lecturehalls, playhouses and movietheaters, meetingrooms, etc.). Such assembly areas, if (1) theyaccommodate at least 50 persons, or if theyhave audio-amplification systems, and (2) theyhave fixed seating, shall have a permanentlyinstalled assistive listening system complyingwith 4.33. For other assembly areas, a perma-nently installed assistive listening system, oran adequate number of electrical outlets orother supplementary wiring necessary tosupport a portable assistive listening systemshall be provided. The minimumnumber of receivers to be provided shall beequal to 4 percent of the total number of seats,but in no case less than two. Signage comply-ing with applicable provisions of 4.30 shall beinstalled to notify patrons of the availability of alistening system.

(20) Where automated teller machines (ATMs)are provided, each ATM shall comply with therequirements of 4.34 except where two or moreare provided at a location, then only one mustcomply.

EXCEPTION: Drive-up-only automated tellermachines are not required to comply with4.27.2, 4.27.3 and 4.34.3.

(21) Where dressing and fitting rooms areprovided for use by the general public, patients,customers or employees, 5 percent, but neverless than one, of dressing rooms for each typeof use in each cluster of dressing rooms shallbe accessible and shall comply with 4.35.

Examples of types of dressing rooms are thoseserving different genders or distinct anddifferent functions as in different treatment orexamination facilities.

4.1.4 (Reserved).

4.1.5 Accessible Buildings: Additions.Each addition to an existing building or facilityshall be regarded as an alteration. Each spaceor element added to the existing building orfacility shall comply with the applicable provi-sions of 4.1.1 to 4.1.3, Minimum Requirements(for New Construction) and the applicabletechnical specifications of 4.2 through 4.35 andsections 5 through 10. Each addition that


10


502

affects or could affect the usability of an areacontaining a primary function shall complywith 4.1.6(2).

4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations.

(1) General. Alterations to existing buildingsand facilities shall comply with the following:

(a) No alteration shall be undertaken whichdecreases or has the effect of decreasingaccessibility or usability of a building or facilitybelow the requirements for new construction atthe time of alteration.

(b) If existing elements, spaces, or commonareas are altered, then each such alteredelement, space, feature, or area shall complywith the applicable provisions of 4.1.1 to 4.1.3Minimum Requirements (for New Construc-tion). If the applicable provision for new con-struction requires that an element, space, orcommon area be on an accessible route, thealtered element, space, or common area is notrequired to be on an accessible route except asprovided in 4.1.6(2) (Alterations to an AreaContaining a Primary Function.)

(c) If alterations of single elements, whenconsidered together, amount to an alteration ofa room or space in a building or facility, theentire space shall be made accessible.

(d) No alteration of an existing element,space, or area of a building or facility shallimpose a requirement for greater accessibilitythan that which would be required for newconstruction. For example, if the elevators andstairs in a building are being altered and theelevators are, in turn, being made accessible,then no accessibility modifications are requiredto the stairs connecting levels connected by theelevator. If stair modifications to correct unsafeconditions are required by other codes, themodifications shall be done in compliance withthese guidelines unless technically infeasible.

(e) At least one interior public text telephonecomplying with 4.31.9 shall be provided if:

(i) alterations to existing buildings orfacilities with less than four exterior or interiorpublic pay telephones would increase the totalnumber to four or more telephones with atleast one in an interior location; or

(ii) alterations to one or more exterior orinterior public pay telephones occur in anexisting building or facility with four or morepublic telephones with at least one in aninterior location.

(f) If an escalator or stair is planned orinstalled where none existed previously andmajor structural modifications are necessaryfor such installation, then a means of acces-sible vertical access shall be provided thatcomplies with the applicable provisions of 4.7,4.8, 4.10, or 4.11.

(g) In alterations, the requirements of4.1.3(9), 4.3.10 and 4.3.11 do not apply.

(h)* Entrances: If a planned alteration entailsalterations to an entrance, and the building hasan accessible entrance, the entrance beingaltered is not required to comply with 4.1.3(8),except to the extent required by 4.1.6(2). If aparticular entrance is not made accessible,appropriate accessible signage indicating thelocation of the nearest accessible entrance(s)shall be installed at or near the inaccessibleentrance, such that a person with disabilitieswill not be required to retrace the approachroute from the inaccessible entrance.

(i) If the alteration work is limited solely tothe electrical, mechanical, or plumbing system,or to hazardous material abatement, or auto-matic sprinkler retrofitting, and does notinvolve the alteration of any elements or spacesrequired to be accessible under these guide-lines, then 4.1.6(2) does not apply.

(j) EXCEPTION: In alteration work, if compli-ance with 4.1.6 is technically infeasible, thealteration shall provide accessibility to themaximum extent feasible. Any elements orfeatures of the building or facility that are beingaltered and can be made accessible shall bemade accessible within the scope of the alter-ation.

Technically Infeasible. Means, with respect toan alteration of a building or a facility, that ithas little likelihood of being accomplishedbecause existing structural conditions wouldrequire removing or altering a load-bearingmember which is an essential part of thestructural frame; or because other existingphysical or site constraints prohibitmodification or addition of elements, spaces, or

4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alteration

11


503

features which are in full and strict compliancewith the minimum requirements for newconstruction and which are necessary toprovide accessibility.

(k) EXCEPTION:

(i) These guidelines do not require theinstallation of an elevator in an altered facilitythat is less than three stories or has less than3,000 square feet per story unless the buildingis a shopping center, a shopping mall, theprofessional office of a health care provider, oranother type of facility as determined by theAttorney General.

(ii) The exemption provided in paragraph (i)does not obviate or limit in any way the obliga-tion to comply with the other accessibilityrequirements established in these guidelines.For example, alterations to floors above orbelow the ground floor must be accessibleregardless of whether the altered facility has anelevator. If a facility subject to the elevatorexemption set forth in paragraph (i) nonethe-less has a full passenger elevator, that elevatorshall meet, to the maximum extent feasible, theaccessibility requirements of these guidelines.

(2) Alterations to an Area Containing aPrimary Function: In addition to the require-ments of 4.1.6(1), an alteration that affects orcould affect the usability of or access to an areacontaining a primary function shall be made soas to ensure that, to the maximum extentfeasible, the path of travel to the altered areaand the restrooms, telephones, and drinkingfountains serving the altered area, are readilyaccessible to and usable by individuals withdisabilities, unless such alterations are dispro-portionate to the overall alterations in terms ofcost and scope (as determined under criteriaestablished by the Attorney General).

(3) Special Technical Provisions for Alter-ations to Existing Buildings and Facilities:

(a) Ramps: Curb ramps and interior orexterior ramps to be constructed on sites or inexisting buildings or facilities where spacelimitations prohibit the use of a 1:12 slope orless may have slopes and rises as follows:

(i) A slope between 1:10 and 1:12 is allowedfor a maximum rise of 6 inches.

(ii) A slope between 1:8 and 1:10 is allowedfor a maximum rise of 3 inches. A slope steeperthan 1:8 is not allowed.

(b) Stairs: Full extension of handrails atstairs shall not be required in alterations wheresuch extensions would be hazardous orimpossible due to plan configuration.

(c) Elevators:

(i) If safety door edges are provided inexisting automatic elevators, automatic doorreopening devices may be omitted (see 4.10.6).

(ii) Where existing shaft configuration ortechnical infeasibility prohibits strict compli-ance with 4.10.9, the minimum car plan dimen-sions may be reduced by the minimum amountnecessary, but in no case shall the inside cararea be smaller than 48 in by 48 in.

(iii) Equivalent facilitation may be providedwith an elevator car of different dimensionswhen usability can be demonstrated and whenall other elements required to be accessiblecomply with the applicable provisions of 4.10.For example, an elevator of 47 in by 69 in (1195mm by 1755 mm) with a door opening on thenarrow dimension, could accommodate thestandard wheelchair clearances shown inFigure 4.

(d) Doors:

(i) Where it is technically infeasible tocomply with clear opening width requirementsof 4.13.5, a projection of 5/8 in maximum willbe permitted for the latch side stop.

(ii) If existing thresholds are 3/4 in high orless, and have (or are modified to have) abeveled edge on each side, they may remain.

(e) Toilet Rooms:

(i) Where it is technically infeasible tocomply with 4.22 or 4.23, the installation of atleast one unisex toilet/bathroom per floor,located in the same area as existing toiletfacilities, will be permitted in lieu of modifyingexisting toilet facilities to be accessible. Eachunisex toilet room shall contain one watercloset complying with 4.16 and one lavatorycomplying with 4.19, and the door shall have aprivacy latch.

4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations

12


504

(ii) Where it is technically infeasible toinstall a required standard stall (Fig. 30(a)), orwhere other codes prohibit reduction of thefixture count (i.e., removal of a water closet inorder to create a double-wide stall), eitheralternate stall (Fig.30(b)) may be provided in lieuof the standard stall.

(iii) When existing toilet or bathing facilitiesare being altered and are not made accessible,signage complying with 4.30.1, 4.30.2, 4.30.3,4.30.5, and 4.30.7 shall be provided indicatingthe location of the nearest accessible toilet orbathing facility within the facility.

(f) Assembly Areas:

(i) Where it is technically infeasible todisperse accessible seating throughout analtered assembly area, accessible seating areasmay be clustered. Each accessible seating areashall have provisions for companion seatingand shall be located on an accessible route thatalso serves as a means of emergency egress.

(ii) Where it is technically infeasible to alterall performing areas to be on an accessibleroute, at least one of each type of performingarea shall be made accessible.

(g) Platform Lifts (Wheelchair Lifts): Inalterations, platform lifts (wheelchair lifts)complying with 4.11 and applicable state orlocal codes may be used as part of an acces-sible route. The use of lifts is not limited to thefour conditions in exception 4 of 4.1.3(5)

(h) Dressing Rooms: In alterations wheretechnical infeasibility can be demonstrated, onedressing room for each sex on each level shallbe made accessible. Where only unisex dress-ing rooms are provided, accessible unisexdressing rooms may be used to fulfill thisrequirement.

4.1.7 Accessible Buildings: HistoricPreservation.

(1) Applicability:

(a) General Rule. Alterations to a qualifiedhistoric building or facility shall comply with4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations, theapplicable technical specifications of 4.2

through 4.35 and the applicable special applica-tion sections 5 through 10 unless it is deter-mined in accordance with the procedures in4.1.7(2) that compliance with the requirementsfor accessible routes (exterior and interior),ramps, entrances, or toilets would threaten ordestroy the historic significance of the buildingor facility in which case the alternative require-ments in 4.1.7(3) may be used for the feature.

EXCEPTION: (Reserved).

(b) Definition. A qualified historic building orfacility is a building or facility that is:

(i) Listed in or eligible for listing in theNational Register of Historic Places; or

(ii) Designated as historic under an appro-priate State or local law.

(2) Procedures:

(a) Alterations to Qualified Historic Buildingsand Facilities Subject to Section 106 of theNational Historic Preservation Act:

(i) Section 106 Process. Section 106 of theNational Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C.470 f) requires that a Federal agency withjurisdiction over a Federal, federally assisted, orfederally licensed undertaking consider theeffects of the agencys undertaking on buildingsand facilities listed in or eligible for listing inthe National Register of Historic Places and givethe Advisory Council on Historic Preservation areasonable opportunity to comment on theundertaking prior to approval of the undertak-ing.

(ii) ADA Application. Where alterations areundertaken to a qualified historic building orfacility that is subject to section 106 of theNational Historic Preservation Act, the Federalagency with jurisdiction over the undertakingshall follow the section 106 process. If the StateHistoric Preservation Officer or AdvisoryCouncil on Historic Preservation agrees thatcompliance with the requirements for acces-sible routes (exterior and interior), ramps,entrances, or toilets would threaten or destroythe historic significance of the building orfacility, the alternative requirements in 4.1.7(3)may be used for the feature.

13

4.1.7 Accessible Buildings: Historic Preservation


505

(b) Alterations to Qualified Historic Build-ings and Facilities Not Subject to Section 106of the National Historic Preservation Act.Where alterations are undertaken to a qualifiedhistoric building or facility that is not subjectto section 106 of the National Historic Preser-vation Act, if the entity undertaking the alter-ations believes that compliance with therequirements for accessible routes (exteriorand interior), ramps, entrances, or toiletswould threaten or destroy the historic signifi-cance of the building or facility and that thealternative requirements in 4.1.7(3) should beused for the feature, the entity should consultwith the State Historic Preservation Officer. Ifthe State Historic Preservation Officer agreesthat compliance with the accessibility require-ments for accessible routes (exterior andinterior), ramps, entrances or toilets wouldthreaten or destroy the historical significanceof the building or facility, the alternative re-quirements in 4.1.7(3) may be used.

(c) Consultation With Interested Persons.Interested persons should be invited to partici-pate in the consultation process, includingState or local accessibility officials, individualswith disabilities, and organizations represent-ing individuals with disabilities.

(d) Certified Local Government HistoricPreservation Programs. Where the State His-toric Preservation Officer has delegated theconsultation responsibility for purposes of thissection to a local government historic preserva-tion program that has been certified in accor-dance with section 101(c) of the NationalHistoric Preservation Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C.470a (c)) and implementing regulations (36 CFR61.5), the responsibility may be carried out bythe appropriate local government body orofficial.

(3) Historic Preservation: Minimum Require-ments:

(a) At least one accessible route complyingwith 4.3 from a site access point to an acces-sible entrance shall be provided.

EXCEPTION: A ramp with a slope no greaterthan 1:6 for a run not to exceed 2 ft (610 mm)may be used as part of an accessible route toan entrance.

(b) At least one accessible entrance comply-ing with 4.14 which is used by the public shallbe provided.

EXCEPTION: If it is determined that no en-trance used by the public can comply with4.14, then access at any entrance not used bythe general public but open (unlocked) withdirectional signage at the primary entrancemay be used. The accessible entrance shallalso have a notification system. Where securityis a problem, remote monitoring may be used.

(c) If toilets are provided, then at least onetoilet facility complying with 4.22 and 4.1.6shall be provided along an accessible route thatcomplies with 4.3. Such toilet facility may beunisex in design.

(d) Accessible routes from an accessibleentrance to all publicly used spaces on at leastthe level of the accessible entrance shall beprovided. Access shall be provided to all levelsof a building or facility in compliance with 4.1whenever practical.

(e) Displays and written information, docu-ments, etc., should be located where they canbe seen by a seated person. Exhibits andsignage displayed horizontally (e.g., openbooks), should be no higher than 44 in (1120mm) above the floor surface.

NOTE: The technical provisions of sections 4.2through 4.35 are the same as those of theAmerican National Standard Institutes docu-ment A117.1-1980, except as noted in the text.

4.2 Space Allowance and ReachRanges.

4.2.1* Wheelchair Passage Width. Theminimum clear width for single wheelchairpassage shall be 32 in (815 mm) at a point and36 in (915 mm) continuously (see Fig. 1 and24(e)).

4.2.2 Width for Wheelchair Passing. Theminimum width for two wheelchairs to pass is60 in (1525 mm) (see Fig. 2).

4.2.3* Wheelchair Turning Space. The spacerequired for a wheelchair to make a 180-degreeturn is a clear space of 60 in (1525 mm)

14

4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges


506

diameter (see Fig. 3(a)) or a T-shaped space (seeFig. 3(b)).

4.2.4* Clear Floor or Ground Spacefor Wheelchairs.

4.2.4.1 Size and Approach. The minimumclear floor or ground space required to accom-modate a single, stationary wheelchair andoccupant is 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by 1220mm) (see Fig. 4(a)). The minimum clear floor orground space for wheelchairs may be posi-tioned for forward or parallel approach to anobject (see Fig. 4(b) and (c)). Clear floor orground space for wheelchairs may be part of theknee space required under some objects.

4.2.4.2 Relationship of Maneuvering Clear-ance to Wheelchair Spaces. One fullunobstructed side of the clear floor or groundspace for a wheelchair shall adjoin or overlapan accessible route or adjoin another wheel-chair clear floor space. If a clear floor space islocated in an alcove or otherwise confined onall or part of three sides, additional maneuver-ing clearances shall be provided as shown inFig. 4(d) and (e).

4.2.4.3 Surfaces for Wheelchair Spaces.Clear floor or ground spaces for wheelchairsshall comply with 4.5.

4.2.5* Forward Reach. If the clear floor spaceonly allows forward approach to an object, themaximum high forward reach allowed shall be48 in (1220 mm) (see Fig. 5(a)). The minimumlow forward reach is 15 in (380 mm). If the highforward reach is over an obstruction, reach andclearances shall be as shown in Fig. 5(b).

4.2.6* Side Reach. If the clear floor spaceallows parallel approach by a person in awheelchair, the maximum high side reachallowed shall be 54 in (1370 mm) and the lowside reach shall be no less than 9 in (230 mm)above the floor (Fig. 6(a) and (b)). If the sidereach is over an obstruction, the reach andclearances shall be as shown in Fig 6(c).

4.3 Accessible Route.

4.3.1* General. All walks, halls, corridors,aisles, skywalks, tunnels, and other spaces

15

4.2.4* Clear Floor or Ground Space for Wheelchairs


507

that are part of an accessible route shallcomply with 4.3.

4.3.2 Location.

(1) At least one accessible route within theboundary of the site shall be provided frompublic transportation stops, accessible parking,and accessible passenger loading zones, andpublic streets or sidewalks to the accessiblebuilding entrance they serve. The accessibleroute shall, to the maximum extent feasible,coincide with the route for the general public.

(2) At least one accessible route shall connectaccessible buildings, facilities, elements, andspaces that are on the same site.

(3) At least one accessible route shall connectaccessible building or facility entrances with allaccessible spaces and elements and with allaccessible dwelling units within the building orfacility.

(4) An accessible route shall connect at leastone accessible entrance of each accessible

dwelling unit with those exterior and interiorspaces and facilities that serve the accessibledwelling unit.

4.3.3 Width. The minimum clear width of anaccessible route shall be 36 in (915 mm) exceptat doors (see 4.13.5 and 4.13.6). If a person in awheelchair must make a turn around anobstruction, the minimum clear width of theaccessible route shall be as shown in Fig. 7(a)and (b).

4.3.4 Passing Space. If an accessible routehas less than 60 in (1525 mm) clear width,then passing spaces at least 60 in by 60 in(1525 mm by 1525 mm) shall be located atreasonable intervals not to exceed 200 ft (61m). A T-intersection of two corridors or walksis an acceptable passing place.

4.3.5 Head Room. Accessible routes shallcomply with 4.4.2.

4.3.6 Surface Textures. The surface of anaccessible route shall comply with 4.5.

16

4.3 Accessible Route


508


17


509


18


510

4.3.7 Slope. An accessible route with arunning slope greater than 1:20 is a ramp andshall comply with 4.8. Nowhere shall the crossslope of an accessible route exceed 1:50.

4.3.8 Changes in Levels. Changes in levelsalong an accessible route shall comply with4.5.2. If an accessible route has changes inlevel greater than 1/2 in (13 mm), then a curb

ramp, ramp, elevator, or platform lift (as permit-ted in 4.1.3 and 4.1.6) shall be provided thatcomplies with 4.7, 4.8, 4.10, or 4.11, respec-tively. An accessible route does not includestairs, steps, or escalators. See definition ofegress, means of in 3.5.

4.3.9 Doors. Doors along an accessible routeshall comply with 4.13.

4.3.7 Slope

19


511

4.3.10* Egress. Accessible routes serving anyaccessible space or element shall also serve asa means of egress for emergencies or connectto an accessible area of rescue assistance.

4.3.11 Areas of Rescue Assistance.

4.3.11.1 Location and Construction. Anarea of rescue assistance shall be one of thefollowing:

(1) A portion of a stairway landing within asmokeproof enclosure (complying with localrequirements).

(2) A portion of an exterior exit balconylocated immediately adjacent to an exitstairway when the balcony complies withlocal requirements for exterior exit balconies.Openings to the interior of the building lo-cated within 20 feet (6 m) of the area of rescue

4.3.10* Egress

20


512

assistance shall be protected with fire assem-blies having a three-fourths hour fireprotection rating.

(3) A portion of a one-hour fire-resistive cor-ridor (complying with local requirements forfire-resistive construction and for openings)located immediately adjacent to an exitenclosure.

(4) A vestibule located immediately adjacentto an exit enclosure and constructed to thesame fire-resistive standards as required forcorridors and openings.

(5) A portion of a stairway landing within anexit enclosure which is vented to the exteriorand is separated from the interior of the build-ing with not less than one-hour fire-resistivedoors.

(6) When approved by the appropriate localauthority, an area or a room which is sepa-rated from other portions of the building by asmoke barrier. Smoke barriers shall have afire-resis-tive rating of not less than one hourand shall completely enclose the area or room.Doors in the smoke barrier shall be tight-fittingsmoke- and draft-control assemblies having afire-protection rating of not less than 20 min-utes and shall be self-closing or automaticclosing. The area or room shall be providedwith an exit directly to an exit enclosure. Wherethe room or area exits into an exit enclosurewhich is required to be of more than one-hourfire-resistive construction, the room or areashall have the same fire-resistive construction,including the same opening protection, asrequired for the adjacent exit enclosure.

(7) An elevator lobby when elevator shaftsand adjacent lobbies are pressurized as re-quired for smokeproof enclosures by local reg-ulations and when complying with require-ments herein for size, communication, andsignage. Such pressurization system shall beactivated by smoke detectors on each floor lo-cated in a manner approved by the appropriatelocal authority. Pressurization equipment andits duct work within the building shall be sep-arated from other portions of the building by aminimum two-hour fire-resistive construction.

4.3.11.2 Size. Each area of rescue assistanceshall provide at least two accessible areaseach being not less than 30 inches by 48inches (760 mm by 1220 mm). The area of

rescue assistance shall not encroach on anyrequired exit width. The total number of such30-inch by 48-inch (760 mm by 1220 mm)areas per story shall be not less than one forevery 200 persons of calculated occupant loadserved by the area of rescue assistance.

EXCEPTION: The appropriate local authoritymay reduce the minimum number of 30-inchby 48-inch (760 mm by 1220 mm) areas to onefor each area of rescue assistance on floorswhere the occupant load is less than 200.

4.3.11.3* Stairway Width. Each stairwayadjacent to an area of rescue assistance shallhave a minimum clear width of 48 inchesbetween handrails.

4.3.11.4* Two-way Communication. Amethod of two-way communication, with bothvisible and audible signals, shall be providedbetween each area of rescue assistance andthe primary entry. The fire department orappropriate local authority may approve alocation other than the primary entry.

4.3.11.5 Identification. Each area of rescueassistance shall be identified by a sign whichstates AREA OF RESCUE ASSISTANCE anddisplays the international symbol of accessi-bility. The sign shall be illuminated when exitsign illumination is required. Signage shallalso be installed at all inaccessible exits andwhere otherwise necessary to clearly indicatethe direction to areas of rescue assistance. Ineach area of rescue assistance, instructionson the use of the area under emergencyconditions shall be posted adjoining thetwo-way communication system.

4.4 Protruding Objects.

4.4.1* General. Objects projecting from walls(for example, telephones) with their leadingedges between 27 in and 80 in (685 mm and2030 mm) above the finished floor shall pro-trude no more than 4 in (100 mm) into walks,halls, corridors, passageways, or aisles (see Fig.8(a)). Objects mounted with their leading edgesat or below 27 in (685 mm) above the finishedfloor may protrude any amount (see Fig. 8(a)and (b)). Free-standing objects mounted onposts or pylons may overhang 12 in (305 mm)maximum from 27 in to 80 in (685 mm to 2030mm) above the ground or finished floor (see Fig.

4.4 Protruding Objects

21


513

8(c) and (d)). Protruding objects shall notreduce the clear width of an accessible route ormaneuvering space (see Fig. 8(e)).

4.4.2 Head Room. Walks, halls, corridors,passageways, aisles, or other circulationspaces shall have 80 in (2030 mm) minimumclear head room (see Fig. 8(a)). If verticalclearance of an area adjoining an accessibleroute is reduced to less than 80 in (nominaldimension), a barrier to warn blind orvisually-impaired persons shall be provided(see Fig. 8(c-1)).

4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces.

4.5.1* General. Ground and floor surfacesalong accessible routes and in accessiblerooms and spaces including floors, walks,ramps, stairs, and curb ramps, shall be stable,firm, slip-resistant, and shall comply with 4.5.

4.5.2 Changes in Level. Changes in level upto 1/4 in (6 mm) may be vertical and withoutedge treatment (see Fig. 7(c) ). Changes in levelbetween 1/4 in and 1/2 in (6 mm and 13 mm)


22


514


23


515

shall be beveled with a slope no greater than1:2 (see Fig. 7(d) ). Changes in level greaterthan 1/2 in (13 mm) shall be accomplished bymeans of a ramp that complies with 4.7 or 4.8.

4.5.3* Carpet. If carpet or carpet tile is usedon a ground or floor surface, then it shall besecurely attached; have a firm cushion, pad, orbacking, or no cushion or pad; and have a levelloop, textured loop, level cut pile, or level cut/uncut pile texture. The maximum pile thick-ness shall be 1/2 in (13 mm) (see Fig. 8(f)).Exposed edges of carpet shall be fastened tofloor surfaces and have trim along the entirelength of the exposed edge. Carpet edge trimshall comply with 4.5.2.

4.5.4 Gratings. If gratings are located inwalking surfaces, then they shall have spacesno greater than 1/2 in (13 mm) wide in onedirection (see Fig. 8(g)). If gratings have elon-gated openings, then they shall be placed sothat the long dimension is perpendicular to thedominant direction of travel (see Fig. 8(h)).

4.6 Parking and Passenger LoadingZones.

4.6.1 Minimum Number. Parking spacesrequired to be accessible by 4.1 shall complywith 4.6.2 through 4.6.5. Passenger loadingzones required to be accessible by 4.1 shallcomply with 4.6.5 and 4.6.6.

4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces

24


516

4.6.2 Location. Accessible parking spacesserving a particular building shall be located onthe shortest accessible route of travel fromadjacent parking to an accessible entrance. Inparking facilities that do not serve a particularbuilding, accessible parking shall be locatedon the shortest accessible route of travel to anaccessible pedestrian entrance of the parkingfacility. In buildings with multiple accessibleentrances with adjacent parking, accessibleparking spaces shall be dispersed and locatedclosest to the accessible entrances.

4.6.3* Parking Spaces. Accessible parkingspaces shall be at least 96 in (2440 mm) wide.Parking access aisles shall be part of an acces-sible route to the building or facility entranceand shall comply with 4.3. Two accessibleparking spaces may share a common accessaisle (see Fig. 9). Parked vehicle overhangsshall not reduce the clear width of an acces-sible route. Parking spaces and access aislesshall be level with surface slopes not exceed-ing 1:50 (2%) in all directions.

4.6.4* Signage. Accessible parking spacesshall be designated as reserved by a signshowing the symbol of accessibility (see4.30.7). Spaces complying with 4.1.2(5)(b) shallhave an additional sign Van-Accessiblemounted below the symbol of accessibility.Such signs shall be located so they cannot beobscured by a vehicle parked in the space.

4.6.5* Vertical Clearance. Provide minimumvertical clearance of 114 in (2895 mm) ataccessible passenger loading zones and alongat least one vehicle access route to such areasfrom site entrance(s) and exit(s). At parkingspaces complying with 4.1.2(5)(b), provideminimum vertical clearance of 98 in (2490mm) at the parking space and along at leastone vehicle access route to such spaces fromsite entrance(s) and exit(s).

4.6.6 Passenger Loading Zones. Passengerloading zones shall provide an access aisle atleast 60 in (1525 mm) wide and 20 ft (240in)(6100 mm) long adjacent and parallel to thevehicle pull-up space (see Fig. 10). If there arecurbs between the access aisle and the vehiclepull-up space, then a curb ramp complying with4.7 shall be provided. Vehicle standing spacesand access aisles shall be level with surface

4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones

25


517

slopes not exceeding 1:50 (2%) in all directions.

4.7 Curb Ramps.

4.7.1 Location. Curb ramps complying with4.7 shall be provided wherever an accessibleroute crosses a curb.

4.7.2 Slope. Slopes of curb ramps shallcomply with 4.8.2. The slope shall be measuredas shown in Fig. 11. Transitions from ramps towalks, gutters, or streets shall be flush andfree of abrupt changes. Maximum slopes ofadjoining gutters, road surface immediatelyadjacent to the curb ramp, or accessible routeshall not exceed 1:20.

4.7.3 Width. The minimum width of a curbramp shall be 36 in (915 mm), exclusive offlared sides.

4.7.4 Surface. Surfaces of curb ramps shallcomply with 4.5.

4.7.5 Sides of Curb Ramps. If a curb ramp islocated where pedestrians must walk acrossthe ramp, or where it is not protected byhandrails or guardrails, it shall have flaredsides; the maximum slope of the flare shall be1:10 (see Fig. 12(a)). Curb ramps with returned

curbs may be used where pedestrians wouldnot normally walk across the ramp (see Fig.12(b)).

4.7.6 Built-up Curb Ramps. Built-up curbramps shall be located so that they do notproject into vehicular traffic lanes (see Fig. 13).

4.7.7 Detectable Warnings. A curb ramp shallhave a detectable warning complying with4.29.2. The detectable warning shall extend thefull width and depth of the curb ramp.

4.7.8 Obstructions. Curb ramps shall belocated or protected to prevent their obstructionby parked vehicles.

4.7.9 Location at Marked Crossings. Curbramps at marked crossings shall be whollycontained within the markings, excluding anyflared sides (see Fig. 15).

4.7.10 Diagonal Curb Ramps. If diagonal (orcorner type) curb ramps have returned curbs orother well-defined edges, such edges shall beparallel to the direction of pedestrian flow. Thebottom of diagonal curb ramps shall have 48 in(1220 mm) minimum clear space as shown inFig. 15(c) and (d). If diagonal curb ramps areprovided at marked crossings, the 48 in (1220mm) clear space shall be within the markings(see Fig. 15(c) and (d)). If diagonal curb rampshave flared sides, they shall also have at least a24 in (610 mm) long segment of straight curblocated on each side of the curb ramp andwithin the marked crossing (see Fig. 15(c)).

4.7 Curb Ramps

26


518

4.7.11 Islands. Any raised islands in cross-ings shall be cut through level with the street orhave curb ramps at both sides and a level areaat least 48 in (1220 mm) long between the curbramps in the part of the island intersected bythe crossings (see Fig. 15(a) and (b)).

4.8 Ramps.

4.8.1* General. Any part of an accessible routewith a slope greater than 1:20 shall be consid-ered a ramp and shall comply with 4.8.

4.8.2* Slope and Rise. The least possibleslope shall be used for any ramp. The maximumslope of a ramp in new construction shall be1:12. The maximum rise for any run shall be 30in (760 mm) (see Fig. 16). Curb ramps and

ramps to be constructed on existing sites or inexisting buildings or facilities may have slopesand rises as allowed in 4.1.6(3)(a) if spacelimitations prohibit the use of a 1:12 slope orless.

4.8 Ramps

27


519

4.8 Ramps

28


520

4.8.3 Clear Width. The minimum clear widthof a ramp shall be 36 in (915 mm).

4.8.4* Landings. Ramps shall have levellandings at bottom and top of each ramp andeach ramp run. Landings shall have the follow-ing features:

(1) The landing shall be at least as wide as theramp run leading to it.

(2) The landing length shall be a minimum of60 in (1525 mm) clear.

(3) If ramps change direction at landings, theminimum landing size shall be 60 in by 60 in(1525 mm by 1525 mm).

(4) If a doorway is located at a landing, then thearea in front of the doorway shall comply with4.13.6.

4.8.5* Handrails. If a ramp run has a risegreater than 6 in (150 mm) or a horizontalprojection greater than 72 in (1830 mm), then itshall have handrails on both sides. Handrailsare not required on curb ramps or adjacent toseating in assembly areas. Handrails shallcomply with 4.26 and shall have the followingfeatures:

(1) Handrails shall be provided along bothsides of ramp segments. The inside handrail onswitchback or dogleg ramps shall always becontinuous.

(2) If handrails are not continuous, they shallextend at least 12 in (305 mm) beyond the topand bottom of the ramp segment and shall beparallel with the floor or ground surface (seeFig. 17).

(3) The clear space between the handrail andthe wall shall be 1 - 1/2 in (38 mm).

(4) Gripping surfaces shall be continuous.

(5) Top of handrail gripping surfaces shall bemounted between 34 in and 38 in (865 mm and965 mm) above ramp surfaces.

(6) Ends of handrails shall be either roundedor returned smoothly to floor, wall, or post.

(7) Handrails shall not rotate within theirfittings.

4.8.6 Cross Slope and Surfaces. The crossslope of ramp surfaces shall be no greater than1:50. Ramp surfaces shall comply with 4.5.

4.8 Ramps

29


521

4.8.7 Edge Protection. Ramps and landingswith drop-offs shall have curbs, walls, railings,or projecting surfaces that prevent people fromslipping off the ramp. Curbs shall be a mini-mum of 2 in (50 mm) high (see Fig. 17).

4.8.8 Outdoor Conditions. Outdoor rampsand their approaches shall be designed so thatwater will not accumulate on walking surfaces.

4.9 Stairs.

4.9.1* Minimum Number. Stairs required tobe accessible by 4.1 shall comply with 4.9.

4.9.2 Treads and Risers. On any given flight ofstairs, all steps shall have uniform riser heightsand uniform tread widths. Stair treads shall beno less than 11 in (280 mm) wide, measuredfrom riser to riser (see Fig. 18(a)). Open risersare not permitted.

4.9.3 Nosings. The undersides of nosings shallnot be abrupt. The radius of curvature at theleading edge of the tread shall be no greaterthan 1/2 in (13 mm). Risers shall be sloped orthe underside of the nosing shall have an anglenot less than 60 degrees from the horizontal.Nosings shall project no more than 1-1/2 in (38mm) (see Fig. 18).

4.9.4 Handrails. Stairways shall have hand-rails at both sides of all stairs. Handrails shallcomply with 4.26 and shall have the followingfeatures:

(1) Handrails shall be continuous along bothsides of stairs. The inside handrail onswitchback or dogleg stairs shall always becontinuous (see Fig. 19(a) and (b)).

(2) If handrails are not continuous, they shallextend at least 12 in (305 mm) beyond the topriser and at least 12 in (305 mm) plus the widthof one tread beyond the bottom riser. At the top,the extension shall be parallel with the floor orground surface. At the bottom, the handrailshall continue to slope for a distance of thewidth of one tread from the bottom riser; theremainder of the extension shall be horizontal(see Fig. 19(c) and (d)). Handrail extensionsshall comply with 4.4.

(3) The clear space between handrails andwall shall be 1-1/2 in (38 mm).

(4) Gripping surfaces shall be uninterruptedby newel posts, other construction elements, orobstructions.

(5) Top of handrail gripping surface shall bemounted between 34 in and 38 in (865 mm and965 mm) above stair nosings.

(6) Ends of handrails shall be either roundedor returned smoothly to floor, wall or post.

(7) Handrails shall not rotate within theirfittings.

4.9.5 Detectable Warnings at Stairs.(Reserved).

4.9.6 Outdoor Conditions. Outdoor stairs andtheir approaches shall be designed so thatwater will not accumulate on walking surfaces.

4.10 Elevators.

4.10.1 General. Accessible elevators shall beon an accessible route and shall comply with4.10 and with the ASME A17.1-1990, SafetyCode for Elevators and Escalators. Freightelevators shall not be considered as meetingthe requirements of this section unless theonly elevators provided are used as combina-tion passenger and freight elevators for thepublic and employees.

4.10.2 Automatic Operation. Elevator opera-tion shall be automatic. Each car shall beequipped with a self-leveling feature that willautomatically bring the car to floor landingswithin a tolerance of 1/2 in (13 mm) under ratedloading to zero loading conditions. Thisself-leveling feature shall be automatic andindependent of the operating device and shallcorrect the overtravel or undertravel.

4.10.3 Hall Call Buttons. Call buttons inelevator lobbies and halls shall be centered at42 in (1065 mm) above the floor. Such callbuttons shall have visual signals to indicatewhen each call is registered and when each callis answered. Call buttons shall be a minimumof 3/4 in (19 mm) in the smallest dimension.The button designating the up direction shallbe on top. (See Fig. 20.) Buttons shall be raisedor flush. Objects mounted beneath hall callbuttons shall not project into the elevatorlobby more than 4 in (100 mm).

4.9 Stairs

30


522

4.10 Elevators

31


523

4.10 Elevators

32


524

4.10.4 Hall Lanterns. A visible and audiblesignal shall be provided at each hoistwayentrance to indicate which car is answering acall. Audible signals shall sound once for the updirection and twice for the down direction orshall have verbal annunciators that say up ordown. Visible signals shall have the followingfeatures:

(1) Hall lantern fixtures shall be mounted sothat their centerline is at least 72 in (1830 mm)above the lobby floor. (See Fig. 20.)

(2) Visual elements shall be at least 2-1/2 in(64 mm) in the smallest dimension.

(3) Signals shall be visible from the vicinity ofthe hall call button (see Fig. 20). In-car lanternslocated in cars, visible from the vicinity of hallcall buttons, and conforming to the aboverequirements, shall be acceptable.

4.10.5 Raised and Braille Characters onHoistway Entrances. All elevator hoistwayentrances shall have raised and Braille floordesignations provided on both jambs. Thecenterline of the characters shall be 60 in (1525mm) above finish floor. Such characters shallbe 2 in (50 mm) high and shall comply with4.30.4. Permanently applied plates are accept-able if they are permanently fixed to the jambs.(See Fig. 20).

4.10.6* Door Protective and ReopeningDevice. Elevator doors shall open and closeautomatically. They shall be provided with areopening device that will stop and reopen a cardoor and hoistway door automatically if thedoor becomes obstructed by an object orperson. The device shall be capable of complet-ing these operations without requiring contactfor an obstruction passing through the openingat heights of 5 in and 29 in (125 mm and 735mm) above finish floor (see Fig. 20). Doorreopening devices shall remain effective for atleast 20 seconds. After such an interval, doorsmay close in accordance with the requirementsof ASME A17.1-1990.

4.10.7* Door and Signal Timing for HallCalls. The minimum acceptable time fromnotification that a car is answering a call untilthe doors of that car start to closeshall be calculated from the following equation:

T = D/(1.5 ft/s) or T = D/(445 mm/s)

where T total time in seconds and D distance(in feet or millimeters) from a point in the lobbyor corridor 60 in (1525 mm) directly in front ofthe farthest call button controlling that car tothe centerline of its hoistway door (see Fig. 21).For cars with in-car lanterns, T begins when thelantern is visible from the vicinity of hall callbuttons and an audible signal is sounded. Theminimum acceptable notification time shall be5 seconds.

4.10.8 Door Delay for Car Calls. The mini-mum time for elevator doors to remain fullyopen in response to a car call shall be 3 sec-onds.

4.10.9 Floor Plan of Elevator Cars. The floorarea of elevator cars shall provide space forwheelchair users to enter the car, maneuver

4.10 Elevators

33


525

within reach of controls, and exit from the car.Acceptable door opening and inside dimensionsshall be as shown in Fig. 22. The clearancebetween the car platform sill and the edge ofany hoistway landing shall be no greater than1-1/4 in (32 mm).

4.10.10 Floor Surfaces. Floor surfaces shallcomply with 4.5.

4.10.11 Illumination Levels. The level ofillumination at the car controls, platform, andcar threshold and landing sill shall be at least 5footcandles (53.8 lux).

4.10.12* Car Controls. Elevator controlpanels shall have the following features:

(1) Buttons. All control buttons shall be atleast 3/4 in (19 mm) in their smallest dimen-sion. They shall be raised or flush.

(2) Tactile, Braille, and Visual Control Indica-tors. All control buttons shall be designated byBraille and by raised standard alphabet charac-ters for letters, arabic characters for numerals,or standard symbols as shown in Fig. 23(a), andas required in ASME A17.1-1990. Raised andBraille characters and symbols shall complywith 4.30. The call button for the main entryfloor shall be designated by a raised star at theleft of the floor designation (see Fig. 23(a)). Allraised designations for control buttons shall beplaced immediately to the left of the button towhich they apply. Applied plates, permanently

attached, are an acceptable means to provideraised control designations. Floor buttonsshall be provided with visual indicators toshow when each call is registered. The visualindicators shall be extinguished when eachcall is answered.

(3) Height. All floor buttons shall be nohigher than 54 in (1370 mm) above the finishfloor for side approach and 48 in (1220 mm)for front approach. Emergency controls,including the emergency alarm and emergencystop, shall be grouped at the

wefew

Documents

Transcript of wefew