What Are ADA Ramps?

Definition

• A ramp is a means to get from one vertical height to another. The ADA Accessibility Guidelines define ramps as "part of an accessible route with a slope greater than 1:20 that is essential for wheelchair users if elevators or lifts are not available to connect different levels." Ramps are not used solely by people in wheelchairs; the elderly and those who have difficulty walking may prefer a ramp instead of using the stairs.

Requirements

• An ADA ramp must meet appropriate guidelines to be considered part of an accessible route. The ramp must have a slope from 1:16 to 1:20. This means that for every 1 foot of vertical rise, the ramp must be between 16 and 20 feet in length. The ramp can only be 30 feet long before it must have a flat landing. An ADA ramp is required to be at least 36 inches wide.

Handrails

• ADA ramps must have handrails on both sides if the ramp height is greater then 6 inches or the length is greater then 72 inches. The top of the handrail must be 34 to 38 inches above the finished surface of the ramp. The ends of the handrails must extend out level with the flat, finished surface of the bottom and top of the ramp by 12 inches. The handrails should have a diameter of 1 1/2 inches.

Landings

• Landings are required at the bottom and top of all ADA ramps. The landings should be the same width as the ramp and have a clearance of 5 feet from the ramp edge. If an ADA ramp changes direction, then a landing is required at the turn. Landings where the ramp changes direction are required to be 5 feet by 5 feet in size. If the ramp is greater then 30 feet in length. then a landing is required in the middle of the ramp or at the 30-foot mark.