ADA Rules for Chair Platforms & Lifts

Clear Ground Space

• ADA Regulation 4.2.4 specifies that platform lifts must be in a location with enough ground space to accommodate a single wheelchair and occupant. The minimum ground space permitted is 30 inches by 48 inches. The ground space can be on either side of the platform, but must adjoin or overlap with an accessible route. The wheelchair and occupant must also have an unobstructed entrance and exit to the platform.

Ground Surface Type

• ADA Regulation 4.5 addresses the types of flooring that may be used in conjunction with a platform lift. The flooring must be resistant to slips, hold steady during operation and be firm, to allow the wheelchair occupant the ability to easily maneuver the chair onto the lift. Flooring around the lift and on adjacent walks, ramps, stairs and curbs should also meet these requirements, so the wheelchair occupant is not subject to hazardous conditions when approaching or exiting the lift.

  Carpet may be used if necessary, but must be less than one-half inch thick and should have either a very firm pad underneath or none at all. Grated surfaces may also be unavoidable, but the grates cannot have spaces more than one-half inch wide in any direction, to prevent a wheelchair from becoming lodged.

Controls

• The control and operating mechanisms for a platform lift must be suitable for use by a person confined in a wheelchair, and must comply with ADA Regulation 4.2.7. Controls should be placed in a position that corresponds with the direction of entrance and exit that a wheelchair occupant is expected to use.

  ADA Regulations 4.2.5 and 4.2.6 specify the maximum allowable reach distances for the lift control panel. The height range for a control panel mounted in front of a wheelchair occupant must be between 15 inches and 48 inches above the platform. The height range for a control panel requiring an occupant to reach sideways must be between 9 inches and 54 inches from the platform base. The occupant must be able to operate all of the controls using only one hand and without any pinching, twisting or grasping pressure of more than five pounds of force.