Specifications for Wheelchair Ramps

Enforcement

• Federal law mandates that ADA guidelines be followed, but "there is no official inspection process," although there may be liability for failure to comply, reports the ADA National Network. However, according to the International Code Council, the ADA requirements have been integrated into the building codes. As of 2010, all 50 states enforce the ADA guidelines as part of the building inspection process.

Ramp Slope

• The primary design element of a wheelchair ramp is slope. Ramps are measured in ratios of vertical to horizontal units. The steepest allowed slope is 1:12. Ramps should be built with the least slope possible. Any slope greater than 1:20 is considered a ramp and must meet ADA design guidelines.

Landings

• Landings provide a level place for wheelchair operators to maneuver. Landings are required on every ramp at the top and bottom, at changes of direction and anytime the ramp has a vertical gain of 30 inches. Landings must be at least as wide as the ramp and a minimum of 60 inches in the direction of travel. When ramps change direction, landings must be at least 60 by 60 inches.

Handrails

• Handrails keep the wheelchair on the ramp. Wheelchair operators use handrails to pull themselves up the ramp or slow their descent. Any ramp with a rise of more than six inches is required to have handrails on both sides. Handrail designs are provided in the ADA standards.

Guardrails

• The International Building Code requires guardrails on sides of ramps that are more than 30 inches above the adjacent grade. Guardrail baluster design must prevent the passage of a four-inch sphere. Where guardrails are installed, the required handrails can be integrated as part of the guardrail assembly.