An ADA wheelchair ramp is believed to be the best wheelchair ramp because it follows a strict compliance to ADA (American with Disabilities Association). This ramp construction standards was written to ensure safety and convenience for the disabled population. Ramps are considered to cost less than a wheelchair platform lift because it can fit into almost existing architectural plan.
ADA wheelchair ramp, when built correctly are safe, sturdy structures that allow disabled people access to places they normally cannot go to. This article should partially discuss some ADA wheelchair ramp key specifications as well as give basic steps in building one. For wheelchair ramps, safety is integral for ADA regulations specifically those constructed on public institutions and also adheres to the limited mobility of its public users. The ramp should be wide enough to be safe, sturdy enough to carry the weight of all types of wheelchairs and have a slope that is not too steep for even manual wheelchair users to navigate.
ADA wheelchair ramp slope is recommended to have a slope ratio of 1:16 to 1:20. Its minimal ramp width must be 36 inches and must have an edge protection to prevent users from slipping off. Ramps must have landings at the top and bottom that are at least as wide as the ramp. ADA wheelchair ramp requires handrails on both sides that rise higher than 6 inches or have a horizontal projection of more than 72 inches. Its cross slopes must be less than 1:50 and surface must be slip-resistant and stable. Other building and surface requirements must be met but overall these mentioned standards are the most important.
Building materials for a permanent ADA wheelchair ramp can be wood, steel, aluminum, or the most widely used concrete. Whatever you choose, durability and maintenance should not be forgotten. You should also add nonslip protection to prevent mishaps from the beginning to the end of the ramp. The material chosen to build your ADA wheelchair ramp will greatly affect your work approach.
ADA wheelchair ramp can be easily done if you build it by sections or modules at a time. Start from the doorway or landing section. Attach the first section with anchor bolts then install support posts at the far end of the first section. Make sure you maintain the correct slope ratio as you lay out to the next section and place its support post again on its far end. Re-check the slope and then bolt the section together. Repeat these steps gradually until you finish the whole ramp until the last section of the ADA wheelchair ramp. It will have a beveled transition from ramp to surface to manage a smooth landing. Building permits and other requirements should also be noted.
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