pt. 36, app. a 28 cfr ch. i (7-1-94 edition) · 2003-12-04 · pt. 36, app. a 28 cfr ch. i (7-1-94...

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

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APPENDIX

This appendix contains materials of anadvisory nature and provides additionalinformation that should help the reader tounderstand the minimum requirements of theguidelines or to design buildings or facilitiesfor greater accessibility. The paragraph num-bers correspond to the sections or paragraphsof the guideline to which the material relatesand are therefore not consecutive (for example,A4.2.1 contains additional information relevantto 4.2.1). Sections of the guidelines for whichadditional material appears in this appendixhave been indicated by an asterisk. Nothing inthis appendix shall in any way obviate anyobligation to comply with the requirements ofthe guidelines itself.

A2.2 Equivalent Facilitation. Specificexamples of equivalent facilitation are foundin the following sections:

4.1.6(3)(c) Elevators in Alterations4.31.9 Text Telephones7.2 Sales and Service

Counters, Teller Windows,Information Counters

9.1.4 Classes of SleepingAccommodations

9.2.2(6)(d) Requirements for AccessibleUnits, Sleeping Rooms, andSuites

A4.1.1 Application.

A4.1.1(3) Areas Used Only by Employeesas Work Areas. Where there are a series ofindividual work stations of the same type (e.g.,laboratories, service counters, ticket booths),5%, but not less than one, of each type of workstation should be constructed so that anindividual with disabilities can maneuverwithin the work stations. Rooms housingindividual offices in a typical office buildingmust meet the requirements of the guidelinesconcerning doors, accessible routes, etc. butdo not need to allow for maneuvering spacearound individual desks. Modificationsrequired to permit maneuvering within thework area may be accomplished as a reason-able accommodation to individual employeeswith disabilities under Title I of the ADA.Consideration should also be given to placingshelves in employee work areas at aconvenient height for accessibility or

installing commercially available shelvingthat is adjustable so that reasonable accom-modations can be made in the future.

If work stations are made accessible theyshould comply with the applicable provisionsof 4.2 through 4.35.

A4.1.2 Accessible Sites and ExteriorFacilities: New Construction.

A4.1.2(5)(e) Valet Parking. Valet parking isnot always usable by individuals with disabili-ties. For instance, an individual may use atype of vehicle controls that render the regu-lar controls inoperable or the driver’s seat ina van may be removed. In these situations,another person cannot park the vehicle. It isrecommended that some self-parking spacesbe provided at valet parking facilities forindividuals whose vehicles cannot be parkedby another person and that such spaces belocated on an accessible route to the en-trance of the facility.

A4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: NewConstruction.

A4.1.3(5) Only full passenger elevators arecovered by the accessibility provisions of 4.10.Materials and equipment hoists, freight eleva-tors not intended for passenger use, dumbwait-ers, and construction elevators are not coveredby these guidelines. If a building is exempt fromthe elevator requirement, it is not necessary toprovide a platform lift or other means of verti-cal access in lieu of an elevator.

Under Exception 4, platform lifts are allowedwhere existing conditions make it impracticalto install a ramp or elevator. Such conditionsgenerally occur where it is essential to provideaccess to small raised or lowered areas wherespace may not be available for a ramp. Ex-amples include, but are not limited to, raisedpharmacy platforms, commercial offices raisedabove a sales floor, or radio and news booths.

A4.1.3(9) Supervised automatic sprinklersystems have built in signals for monitoringfeatures of the system such as the opening andclosing of water control valves, the powersupplies for needed pumps, water tank levels,and for indicating conditions that will impairthe satisfactory operation of the sprinklersystem.

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Because of these monitoring features, super-vised automatic sprinkler systems have a highlevel of satisfactory performance and responseto fire conditions.

A4.1.3(10) If an odd number of drinkingfountains is provided on a floor, the require-ment in 4.1.3(10)(b) may be met by roundingdown the odd number to an even number andcalculating 50% of the even number. Whenmore than one drinking fountain on a floor isrequired to comply with 4.15, those fountainsshould be dispersed to allow wheelchair usersconvenient access. For example, in a largefacility such as a convention center that haswater fountains at several locations on a floor,the accessible water fountains should belocated so that wheelchair users do not haveto travel a greater distance than other peopleto use a drinking fountain.

A4.1.3(17)(b) In addition to the requirementsof section 4.1.3(17)(b), the installation ofadditional volume controls is encouraged.Volume controls may be installed on anytelephone.

A4.1.3(19)(a) Readily removable or foldingseating units may be installed in lieu ofproviding an open space for wheelchair users.Folding seating units are usually two fixedseats that can be easily folded into a fixedcenter bar to allow for one or two open spacesfor wheelchair users when necessary. Theseunits are more easily adapted than removableseats which generally require the seat to beremoved in advance by the facility manage-ment.

Either a sign or a marker placed on seatingwith removable or folding arm rests is requiredby this section. Consideration should be givenfor ensuring identification of such seats in adarkened theater. For example, a marker whichcontrasts (light on dark or dark on light) andwhich also reflects light could be placed on theside of such seating so as to be visible in alighted auditorium and also to reflect lightfrom a flashlight.

A4.1.6 Accessible Buildings:Alterations.

A4.1.6(1)(h) When an entrance is beingaltered, it is preferable that those entrancesbeing altered be made accessible to theextent feasible.

A4.2 Space Allowances and ReachRanges.

A4.2.1 Wheelchair Passage Width.

(1) Space Requirements for Wheelchairs.Many persons who use wheelchairs need a 30in (760 mm) clear opening width for doorways,gates, and the like, when the latter are enteredhead-on. If the person is unfamiliar with abuilding, if competing traffic is heavy, if suddenor frequent movements are needed, or if thewheelchair must be turned at an opening, thengreater clear widths are needed. For mostsituations, the addition of an inch of leeway oneither side is sufficient. Thus, a minimum clearwidth of 32 in (815 mm) will provide adequateclearance. However, when an opening or arestriction in a passageway is more than 24 in(610 mm) long, it is essentially a passagewayand must be at least 36 in (915 mm) wide.

(2) Space Requirements for Use of WalkingAids. Although people who use walking aidscan maneuver through clear width openings of32 in (815 mm), they need 36 in (915 mm) widepassageways and walks for comfortable gaits.Crutch tips, often extending down at a wideangle, are a hazard in narrow passagewayswhere they might not be seen by other pedestri-ans. Thus, the 36 in (915 mm) width provides asafety allowance both for the person with adisability and for others.

(3) Space Requirements for Passing. Able-bodied persons in winter clothing, walking

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straight ahead with arms swinging, need 32 in(815 mm) of width, which includes 2 in (50mm) on either side for sway, and another 1 in(25 mm) tolerance on either side for clearingnearby objects or other pedestrians. Almost allwheelchair users and those who use walkingaids can also manage within this 32 in (815mm) width for short distances. Thus, twostreams of traffic can pass in 64 in (1625 mm)in a comfortable flow. Sixty inches (1525 mm)provides a minimum width for a somewhatmore restricted flow. If the clear width is lessthan 60 in (1525 mm), two wheelchair userswill not be able to pass but will have to seek awider place for passing. Forty-eight inches(1220 mm) is the minimum width needed foran ambulatory person to pass anonambulatory or semi-ambulatory person.Within this 48 in (1220 mm) width, the ambula-tory person will have to twist to pass a wheel-chair user, a person with a service animal, or a

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semi-ambulatory person. There will be littleleeway for swaying or missteps (see Fig. A1).

A4.2.3 Wheelchair Turning Space.These guidelines specify a minimum space of60 in (1525 mm) diameter or a 60 in by 60 in(1525 mm by 1525 mm) T-shaped space for apivoting 180-degree turn of a wheelchair. Thisspace is usually satisfactory for turningaround, but many people will not be able toturn without repeated tries and bumping intosurrounding objects. The space shown in Fig.A2 will allow most wheelchair users to com-plete U-turns without difficulty.

A4.2.4 Clear Floor or Ground Space forWheelchairs. The wheelchair and user shownin Fig. A3 represent typical dimensions for alarge adult male. The space requirements inthis guideline are based upon maneuveringclearances that will accommodate most wheel-chairs. Fig. A3 provides a uniform reference fordesign not covered by this guideline.

A4.2.5 & A4.2.6 Reach. Reach ranges forpersons seated in wheelchairs may be furtherclarified by Fig. A3(a). These drawings ap-proximate in the plan view the informationshown in Fig. 4, 5, and 6.

A4.3 Accessible Route.

A4.3.1 General.

(1) Travel Distances. Many people withmobility impairments can move at only veryslow speeds; for many, traveling 200 ft (61 m)could take about 2 minutes. This assumes arate of about 1.5 ft/s (455 mm/s) on levelground. It also assumes that the traveler wouldmove continuously. However, on trips over 100ft (30 m), disabled people are apt to rest fre-quently, which substantially increases theirtrip times. Resting periods of 2 minutes forevery 100 ft (30 m) can be used to estimatetravel times for people with severely limitedstamina. In inclement weather, slow progressand resting can greatly increase a disabledperson’s exposure to the elements.

(2) Sites. Level, indirect routes or those withrunning slopes lower than 1:20 can sometimesprovide more convenience than direct routeswith maximum allowable slopes or with ramps.

A4.3.10 Egress. Because people with dis-abilities may visit, be employed or be a resi-dent in any building, emergency managementplans with specific provisions to ensure theirsafe evacuation also play an essential role infire safety and life safety.

A4.3.11.3 Stairway Width. A 48 in (1220mm) wide exit stairway is needed to allowassisted evacuation (e.g., carrying a person ina wheelchair) without encroaching on the exitpath for ambulatory persons.

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A4.3.11.4 Two-way Communication. It isessential that emergency communication notbe dependent on voice communications alonebecause the safety of people with hearing orspeech impairments could be jeopardized. Thevisible signal requirement could be satisfiedwith something as simple as a button in thearea of rescue assistance that lights, indicat-ing that help is on the way, when the mes-sage is answered at the point of entry.

A4.4 Protruding Objects.

A4.4.1 General. Service animals are trainedto recognize and avoid hazards. However, mostpeople with severe impairments of vision usethe long cane as an aid to mobility. The twoprincipal cane techniques are the touchtechnique, where the cane arcs from side toside and touches points outside both shoul-ders; and the diagonal technique, where thecane is held in a stationary position diagonallyacross the body with the cane tip touching orjust above the ground at a point outside oneshoulder and the handle or grip extending to apoint outside the other shoulder. The touchtechnique is used primarily in uncontrolledareas, while the diagonal technique is usedprimarily in certain limited, controlled, andfamiliar environments. Cane users are oftentrained to use both techniques.

Potential hazardous objects are noticed only ifthey fall within the detection range of canes(see Fig. A4). Visually impaired people walkingtoward an object can detect an overhang if itslowest surface is not higher than 27 in (685mm). When walking alongside protrudingobjects, they cannot detect overhangs. Sinceproper cane and service animal techniqueskeep people away from the edge of a path orfrom walls, a slight overhang of no more than 4in (100 mm) is not hazardous.

A4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces.

A4.5.1 General. People who have difficultywalking or maintaining balance or who usecrutches, canes, or walkers, and those withrestricted gaits are particularly sensitive toslipping and tripping hazards. For such people,a stable and regular surface is necessary forsafe walking, particularly on stairs. Wheel-chairs can be propelled most easily on sur-faces that are hard, stable, and regular. Soft

loose surfaces such as shag carpet, loose sandor gravel, wet clay, and irregular surfaces suchas cobblestones can significantly impedewheelchair movement.

Slip resistance is based on the frictional forcenecessary to keep a shoe heel or crutch tip fromslipping on a walking surface under conditionslikely to be found on the surface. While thedynamic coefficient of friction during walkingvaries in a complex and non-uniform way, thestatic coefficient of friction, which can bemeasured in several ways, provides a closeapproximation of the slip resistance of asurface. Contrary to popular belief, someslippage is necessary to walking, especially forpersons with restricted gaits; a truly “non-slip”surface could not be negotiated.

The Occupational Safety and Health Adminis-tration recommends that walking surfaceshave a static coefficient of friction of 0.5. Aresearch project sponsored by the Architecturaland Transportation Barriers Compliance Board(Access Board) conducted tests with personswith disabilities and concluded that a highercoefficient of friction was needed by suchpersons. A static coefficient of friction of 0.6 isrecommended for accessible routes and 0.8 forramps.

It is recognized that the coefficient of frictionvaries considerably due to the presence ofcontaminants, water, floor finishes, and otherfactors not under the control of the designer orbuilder and not subject to design and construc-tion guidelines and that compliance would bedifficult to measure on the building site. Never-theless, many common building materialssuitable for flooring are now labeled withinformation on the static coefficient of friction.While it may not be possible to compare oneproduct directly with another, or to guarantee aconstant measure, builders and designers areencouraged to specify materials with appropri-ate values. As more products include informa-tion on slip resistance, improved uniformity inmeasurement and specification is likely. TheAccess Board’s advisory guidelines on SlipResistant Surfaces provides additional infor-mation on this subject.

Cross slopes on walks and ground or floorsurfaces can cause considerable difficulty inpropelling a wheelchair in a straight line.

A4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces

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A4.5.3 Carpet. Much more needs to be donein developing both quantitative and qualitativecriteria for carpeting (i.e., problems associatedwith texture and weave need to be studied).However, certain functional characteristics arewell established. When both carpet and pad-ding are used, it is desirable to have minimummovement (preferably none) between the floorand the pad and the pad and the carpet whichwould allow the carpet to hump or warp. Inheavily trafficked areas, a thick, soft (plush)pad or cushion, particularly in combinationwith long carpet pile, makes it difficult forindividuals in wheelchairs and those withother ambulatory disabilities to get about. Firmcarpeting can be achieved through properselection and combination of pad and carpet,sometimes with the elimination of the pad orcushion, and with proper installation.Carpeting designed with a weave that causesa zig-zag effect when wheeled across isstrongly discouraged.

A4.6 Parking and Passenger LoadingZones.

A4.6.3 Parking Spaces. The increasing useof vans with side-mounted lifts or ramps bypersons with disabilities has necessitatedsome revisions in specifications for parkingspaces and adjacent access aisles. Thetypical accessible parking space is 96 in(2440 mm) wide with an adjacent 60 in (1525mm) access aisle. However, this aisle does notpermit lifts or ramps to be deployed and stillleave room for a person using a wheelchair orother mobility aid to exit the lift platform orramp. In tests conducted with actual lift/van/wheelchair combinations, (under aBoard-sponsored Accessible Parking andLoading Zones Project) researchers found thata space and aisle totaling almost 204 in (5180mm) wide was needed to deploy a lift and exitconveniently. The “van accessible” parkingspace required by these guidelines provides a96 in (2440 mm) wide space with a 96 in (2440mm) adjacent access aisle which is just wideenough to maneuver and exit from a sidemounted lift. If a 96 in (2440 mm) access aisleis placed between two spaces, two “vanaccessible” spaces are created. Alternatively,if the wide access aisle is provided at the endof a row (an area often unused), it may bepossible to provide the wide access aislewithout additional space (see Fig. A5(a)).

A sign is needed to alert van users to thepresence of the wider aisle, but the space isnot intended to be restricted only to vans.

“Universal” Parking Space Design. An alter-native to the provision of a percentage ofspaces with a wide aisle, and the associatedneed to include additional signage, is the useof what has been called the “universal”parking space design. Under this design, allaccessible spaces are 132 in (3350 mm) widewith a 60 in (1525 mm) access aisle (see Fig.A5(b)). One advantage to this design is that

A4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones

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no additional signage is needed because allspaces can accommodate a van with aside-mounted lift or ramp. Also, there is nocompetition between cars and vans for spacessince all spaces can accommodate either.Furthermore, the wider space permits vehiclesto park to one side or the other within the 132in (3350 mm) space to allow persons to exitand enter the vehicle on either the driver orpassenger side, although, in some cases, thiswould require exiting or entering without amarked access aisle.

An essential consideration for any design ishaving the access aisle level with the parkingspace. Since a person with a disability, usinga lift or ramp, must maneuver within theaccess aisle, the aisle cannot include a rampor sloped area. The access aisle must beconnected to an accessible route to theappropriate accessible entrance of a buildingor facility. The parking access aisle musteither blend with the accessible route or havea curb ramp complying with 4.7. Such a curbramp opening must be located within theaccess aisle boundaries, not within theparking space boundaries. Unfortunately,many facilities are designed with a ramp thatis blocked when any vehicle parks in theaccessible space. Also, the required dimen-sions of the access aisle cannot be restrictedby planters, curbs or wheel stops.

A4.6.4 Signage. Signs designating parkingplaces for disabled people can be seen from adriver’s seat if the signs are mounted highenough above the ground and located at thefront of a parking space.

A4.6.5 Vertical Clearance. High-top vans,which disabled people or transportationservices often use, require higher clearances inparking garages than automobiles.

A4.8 Ramps.

A4.8.1 General. Ramps are essential forwheelchair users if elevators or lifts are notavailable to connect different levels. However,some people who use walking aids havedifficulty with ramps and prefer stairs.

A4.8.2 Slope and Rise. Ramp slopes be-tween 1:16 and 1:20 are preferred. The abilityto manage an incline is related to both itsslope and its length. Wheelchair users with

disabilities affecting their arms or with lowstamina have serious difficulty using inclines.Most ambulatory people and most people whouse wheelchairs can manage a slope of 1:16.Many people cannot manage a slope of 1:12 for30 ft (9 m).

A4.8.4 Landings. Level landings are essen-tial toward maintaining an aggregate slopethat complies with these guidelines. A ramplanding that is not level causes individualsusing wheelchairs to tip backward or bottomout when the ramp is approached.

A4.8.5 Handrails. The requirements for stairand ramp handrails in this guideline are foradults. When children are principal users in abuilding or facility, a second set of handrails atan appropriate height can assist them and aidin preventing accidents.

A4.9 Stairs.

A4.9.1 Minimum Number. Only interior andexterior stairs connecting levels that are notconnected by an elevator, ramp, or otheraccessible means of vertical access have tocomply with 4.9.

A4.10 Elevators.

A4.10.6 Door Protective and ReopeningDevice. The required door reopening devicewould hold the door open for 20 seconds if thedoorway remains obstructed. After 20 seconds,the door may begin to close. However, ifdesigned in accordance with ASMEA17.1-1990, the door closing movement couldstill be stopped if a person or object exertssufficient force at any point on the door edge.

A4.10.7 Door and Signal Timing for HallCalls. This paragraph allows variation in thelocation of call buttons, advance time forwarning signals, and the door-holding periodused to meet the time requirement.

A4.10.12 Car Controls. Industry-widestandardization of elevator control paneldesign would make all elevators significantlymore convenient for use by people with severevisual impairments. In many cases, it will bepossible to locate the highest control onelevator panels within 48 in (1220 mm) fromthe floor.

A4.8 Ramps

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A4.10.13 Car Position Indicators. A specialbutton may be provided that would activate theaudible signal within the given elevator onlyfor the desired trip, rather than maintainingthe audible signal in constant operation.

A4.10.14 Emergency Communications. Adevice that requires no handset is easier touse by people who have difficulty reaching.Also, small handles on handset compartmentdoors are not usable by people who havedifficulty grasping.

Ideally, emergency two-way communicationsystems should provide both voice and visualdisplay intercommunication so that personswith hearing impairments and persons withvision impairments can receive informationregarding the status of a rescue. A voiceintercommunication system cannot be theonly means of communication because it isnot accessible to people with speech andhearing impairments. While a voice intercom-munication system is not required, at aminimum, the system should provide both anaudio and visual indication that a rescue ison the way.

A4.11 Platform Lifts (WheelchairLifts).

A4.11.2 Other Requirements. Inclinedstairway chairlifts, and inclined and verticalplatform lifts (wheelchair lifts) are availablefor short-distance, vertical transportation ofpeople with disabilities. Care should be takenin selecting lifts as some lifts are not equallysuitable for use by both wheelchair users andsemi-ambulatory individuals.

A4.12 Windows.

A4.12.1 General. Windows intended to beoperated by occupants in accessible spacesshould comply with 4.12.

A4.12.2 Window Hardware. Windowsrequiring pushing, pulling, or lifting to open(for example, double-hung, sliding, or case-ment and awning units without cranks)should require no more than 5 lbf (22.2 N) toopen or close. Locks, cranks, and otherwindow hardware should comply with 4.27.

A4.13 Doors.

A4.13.8 Thresholds at Doorways. Thresh-olds and surface height changes in doorwaysare particularly inconvenient for wheelchairusers who also have low stamina or restric-tions in arm movement because complexmaneuvering is required to get over the levelchange while operating the door.

A4.13.9 Door Hardware. Some disabledpersons must push against a door with theirchair or walker to open it. Applied kickplateson doors with closers can reduce requiredmaintenance by withstanding abuse fromwheelchairs and canes. To be effective, theyshould cover the door width, less approxi-mately 2 in (51 mm), up to a height of 16 in(405 mm) from its bottom edge and be cen-tered across the width of the door.

A4.13.10 Door Closers. Closers with delayedaction features give a person more time tomaneuver through doorways. They are particu-larly useful on frequently used interior doorssuch as entrances to toilet rooms.

A4.13.11 Door Opening Force. Althoughmost people with disabilities can exert at least5 lbf (22.2N), both pushing and pulling from astationary position, a few people with severedisabilities cannot exert 3 lbf (13.13N). Al-though some people cannot manage theallowable forces in this guideline and manyothers have difficulty, door closers must havecertain minimum closing forces to close doorssatisfactorily. Forces for pushing or pullingdoors open are measured with a push-pullscale under the following conditions:

(1) Hinged doors: Force applied perpendicu-lar to the door at the door opener or 30 in (760mm) from the hinged side, whichever is fartherfrom the hinge.

(2) Sliding or folding doors: Force appliedparallel to the door at the door pull or latch.

(3) Application of force: Apply force graduallyso that the applied force does not exceed theresistance of the door. In high-rise buildings,air-pressure differentials may require a modifi-cation of this specification in order to meetthe functional intent.

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A4.13.12 Automatic Doors andPower-Assisted Doors. Sliding automaticdoors do not need guard rails and are moreconvenient for wheelchair users and visuallyimpaired people to use. If slowly openingautomatic doors can be reactivated before theirclosing cycle is completed, they will be moreconvenient in busy doorways.

A4.15 Drinking Fountains andWater Coolers.

A4.15.2 Spout Height. Two drinking foun-tains, mounted side by side or on a singlepost, are usable by people with disabilitiesand people who find it difficult to bend over.

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A4.16 Water Closets.

A4.16.3 Height. Height preferences for toiletseats vary considerably among disabled people.Higher seat heights may be an advantage tosome ambulatory disabled people, but are oftena disadvantage for wheelchair users andothers. Toilet seats 18 in (455 mm) high seemto be a reasonable compromise. Thick seatsand filler rings are available to adapt standardfixtures to these requirements.

A4.16.4 Grab Bars. Fig. A6(a) and (b) showthe diagonal and side approaches most com-monly used to transfer from a wheelchair to awater closet. Some wheelchair users cantransfer from the front of the toilet while othersuse a 90-degree approach. Most people whouse the two additional approaches can also useeither the diagonal approach or the sideapproach.

A4.16.5 Flush Controls. Flush valves andrelated plumbing can be located behind wallsor to the side of the toilet, or a toilet seat lidcan be provided if plumbing fittings are directlybehind the toilet seat. Such designs reduce thechance of injury and imbalance caused byleaning back against the fittings. Flush con-trols for tank-type toilets have a standardizedmounting location on the left side of the tank(facing the tank). Tanks can be obtained byspecial order with controls mounted on theright side. If administrative authorities requireflush controls for flush valves to be located in aposition that conflicts with the location of therear grab bar, then that bar may be split orshifted toward the wide side of the toilet area.

A4.17 Toilet Stalls.

A4.17.3 Size and Arrangement. Thissection requires use of the 60 in (1525 mm)standard stall (Figure 30(a)) and permits the36 in (915 mm) or 48 in (1220 mm) widealternate stall (Figure 30(b)) only in alter-ations where provision of the standard stall istechnically infeasible or where local plumbingcodes prohibit reduction in the number offixtures. A standard stall provides a clearspace on one side of the water closet to enablepersons who use wheelchairs to perform aside or diagonal transfer from the wheelchairto the water closet. However, some personswith disabilities who use mobility aids suchas walkers, canes or crutches are better able

to use the two parallel grab bars in the 36 in(915 mm) wide alternate stall to achieve astanding position.

In large toilet rooms, where six or more toiletstalls are provided, it is therefore requiredthat a 36 in (915 mm) wide stall with parallelgrab bars be provided in addition to thestandard stall required in new construction.The 36 in (915 mm) width is necessary toachieve proper use of the grab bars; widerstalls would position the grab bars too farapart to be easily used and narrower stallswould position the grab bars too close to thewater closet. Since the stall is primarilyintended for use by persons using canes,crutches and walkers, rather than wheel-chairs, the length of the stall could be conven-tional. The door, however, must swing out-ward to ensure a usable space for people whouse crutches or walkers.

A4.17.5 Doors. To make it easier for wheel-chair users to close toilet stall doors, doorscan be provided with closers, spring hinges, ora pull bar mounted on the inside surface ofthe door near the hinge side.

A4.19 Lavatories and Mirrors.

A4.19.6 Mirrors. If mirrors are to be used byboth ambulatory people and wheelchair users,then they must be at least 74 in (1880 mm)high at their topmost edge. A single full lengthmirror can accommodate all people, includingchildren.

A4.21 Shower Stalls.

A4.21.1 General. Shower stalls that are 36 inby 36 in (915 mm by 915 mm) wide provideadditional safety to people who have difficultymaintaining balance because all grab bars andwalls are within easy reach. Seated people usethe walls of 36 in by 36 in (915 mm by 915mm) showers for back support. Shower stallsthat are 60 in (1525 mm) wide and have nocurb may increase usability of a bathroom bywheelchair users because the shower areaprovides additional maneuvering space.

A4.22 Toilet Rooms.

A4.22.3 Clear Floor Space. In many smallfacilities, single-user restrooms may be theonly facilities provided for all building users.

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In addition, the guidelines allow the use of“unisex” or “family” accessible toilet rooms inalterations when technical infeasibility can bedemonstrated. Experience has shown that theprovision of accessible “unisex” or single-userrestrooms is a reasonable way to provideaccess for wheelchair users and any atten-dants, especially when attendants are of theopposite sex. Since these facilities haveproven so useful, it is often considered advan-tageous to install a “unisex” toilet room innew facilities in addition to making themulti-stall restrooms accessible, especially inshopping malls, large auditoriums, andconvention centers.

Figure 28 (section 4.16) provides minimumclear floor space dimensions for toilets inaccessible “unisex” toilet rooms. The dottedlines designate the minimum clear floorspace, depending on the direction of approach,required for wheelchair users to transfer ontothe water closet. The dimensions of 48 in(1220 mm) and 60 in (1525 mm), respectively,correspond to the space required for the twocommon transfer approaches utilized bywheelchair users (see Fig. A6). It is importantto keep in mind that the placement of thelavatory to the immediate side of the watercloset will preclude the side approach transferillustrated in Figure A6(b).

To accommodate the side transfer, the spaceadjacent to the water closet must remainclear of obstruction for 42 in (1065 mm) fromthe centerline of the toilet (Figure 28) and thelavatory must not be located within this clearspace. A turning circle or T-turn, the clear floorspace at the lavatory, and maneuvering spaceat the door must be considered when deter-mining the possible wall locations. A privacylatch or other accessible means of ensuringprivacy during use should be provided at thedoor.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. In new construction, accessible single-userrestrooms may be desirable in some situa-tions because they can accommodate a widevariety of building users. However, theycannot be used in lieu of making themulti-stall toilet rooms accessible as required.

2. Where strict compliance to the guidelinesfor accessible toilet facilities is technicallyinfeasible in the alteration of existing facili-ties, accessible “unisex” toilets are a reason-able alternative.

3. In designing accessible single-userrestrooms, the provisions of adequate spaceto allow a side transfer will provide accommo-dation to the largest number of wheelchairusers.

A4.22 Toilet Rooms

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A4.23 Bathrooms, Bathing Facilities,and Shower Rooms.

A4.23.3 Clear Floor Space. Figure A7shows two possible configurations of a toiletroom with a roll-in shower. The specific showershown is designed to fit exactly within thedimensions of a standard bathtub. Since theshower does not have a lip, the floor space canbe used for required maneuvering space. Thiswould permit a toilet room to be smaller thanwould be permitted with a bathtub and stillprovide enough floor space to be consideredaccessible. This design can provide accessibil-ity in facilities where space is at a premium(i.e., hotels and medical care facilities). Thealternate roll-in shower (Fig. 57b) also providessufficient room for the “T-turn” and does notrequire plumbing to be on more than one wall.

A4.23.9 Medicine Cabinets. Other alterna-tives for storing medical and personal careitems are very useful to disabled people.Shelves, drawers, and floor-mounted cabinetscan be provided within the reach ranges ofdisabled people.

A4.26 Handrails, Grab Bars, and Tuband Shower Seats.

A4.26.1 General. Many disabled people relyheavily upon grab bars and handrails tomaintain balance and prevent serious falls.Many people brace their forearms betweensupports and walls to give them more leverageand stability in maintaining balance or forlifting. The grab bar clearance of 1-1/2 in (38mm) required in this guideline is a safetyclearance to prevent injuries resulting fromarms slipping through the openings. It alsoprovides adequate gripping room.

A4.26.2 Size and Spacing of Grab Barsand Handrails. This specification allows foralternate shapes of handrails as long as theyallow an opposing grip similar to that pro-vided by a circular section of 1-1/4 in to 1-1/2in (32 mm to 38 mm).

A4.27 Controls and OperatingMechanisms.

A4.27.3 Height. Fig. A8 further illustrates

A4.23 Bathrooms, Bathing Facilities, and Shower Rooms

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mandatory and advisory control mountingheight provisions for typical equipment.

Electrical receptacles installed to serve indi-vidual appliances and not intended for regularor frequent use by building occupants are notrequired to be mounted within the specifiedreach ranges. Examples would be receptaclesinstalled specifically for wall-mounted clocks,refrigerators, and microwave ovens.

A4.28 Alarms.

A4.28.2 Audible Alarms. Audible emergencysignals must have an intensity and frequencythat can attract the attention of individuals whohave partial hearing loss. People over 60 yearsof age generally have difficulty perceivingfrequencies higher than 10,000 Hz. An alarmsignal which has a periodic element to itssignal, such as single stroke bells (clang-pause-clang- pause), hi-low (up-down-up-down)and fast whoop (on-off-on-off) are best. Avoidcontinuous or reverberating tones. Select asignal which has a sound characterized bythree or four clear tones without a great dealof “noise” in between.

A4.28.3 Visual Alarms. The specifications inthis section do not preclude the use of zoned orcoded alarm systems.

A4.28.4 Auxiliary Alarms. Locating visualemergency alarms in rooms where persons whoare deaf may work or reside alone can ensurethat they will always be warned when anemergency alarm is activated. To be effective,such devices must be located and oriented sothat they will spread signals and reflectionsthroughout a space or raise the overall lightlevel sharply. However, visual alarms alone arenot necessarily the best means to alert sleep-ers. A study conducted by Underwriters Labo-ratory (UL) concluded that a flashing lightmore than seven times brighter was required(110 candela v. 15 candela, at the samedistance) to awaken sleepers as was needed toalert awake subjects in a normal daytimeilluminated room.

For hotel and other rooms where people arelikely to be asleep, a signal-activated vibratorplaced between mattress and box spring orunder a pillow was found by UL to be muchmore effective in alerting sleepers. Manyreadily available devices are sound-activated

so that they could respond to an alarm clock,clock radio, wake-up telephone call or roomsmoke detector. Activation by a building alarmsystem can either be accomplished by aseparate circuit activating an auditory alarmwhich would, in turn, trigger the vibrator or bya signal transmitted through the ordinary110-volt outlet. Transmission of signalsthrough the power line is relatively simple andis the basis of common, inexpensive remotelight control systems sold in many departmentand electronic stores for home use. So-called“wireless” intercoms operate on the sameprincipal.

A4.29 Detectable Warnings.

A4.29.2 Detectable Warnings on WalkingSurfaces. The material used to provide con-trast should contrast by at least 70%. Contrastin percent is determined by:

Contrast = [(B1 - B2)/B1] x 100

where B1 = light reflectance value (LRV) of thelighter area and B2 = light reflectance value(LRV) of the darker area.

Note that in any application both white andblack are never absolute; thus, B1 neverequals 100 and B2 is always greater than 0.

A4.30 Signage.

A4.30.1 General. In building complexes wherefinding locations independently on a routinebasis may be a necessity (for example, collegecampuses), tactile maps or prerecorded instruc-tions can be very helpful to visually impairedpeople. Several maps and auditory instructionshave been developed and tested for specificapplications. The type of map or instructionsused must be based on the information to becommunicated, which depends highly on thetype of buildings or users.

Landmarks that can easily be distinguished byvisually impaired individuals are useful asorientation cues. Such cues include changes inillumination level, bright colors, unique pat-terns, wall murals, location of special equip-ment or other architectural features.

Many people with disabilities have limitationsin movement of their heads and reducedperipheral vision. Thus, signage positioned

A4.28 Alarms

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perpendicular to the path of travel is easiest forthem to notice. People can generally distin-guish signage within an angle of 30 degrees toeither side of the centerlines of their faceswithout moving their heads.

A4.30.2 Character Proportion. The legibilityof printed characters is a function of theviewing distance, character height, the ratio ofthe stroke width to the height of the character,the contrast of color between character andbackground, and print font. The size of charac-ters must be based upon the intended viewingdistance. A severely nearsighted person mayhave to be much closer to recognize a characterof a given size than a person with normal visualacuity.

A4.30.4 Raised and Brailled Charactersand Pictorial Symbol Signs (Pictograms).The standard dimensions for literary Brailleare as follows:

Dot diameter .059 in.

Inter-dot spacing .090 in.

Horizontal separationbetween cells .241 in.

Vertical separationbetween cells .395 in.

Raised borders around signs containing raisedcharacters may make them confusing to readunless the border is set far away from thecharacters. Accessible signage with descriptivematerials about public buildings, monuments,and objects of cultural interest may notprovide sufficiently detailed and meaningfulinformation. Interpretive guides, audio tapedevices, or other methods may be more effec-tive in presenting such information.

A4.30.5 Finish and Contrast. An eggshellfinish (11 to 19 degree gloss on 60 degreeglossimeter) is recommended. Research indi-cates that signs are more legible for personswith low vision when characters contrast withtheir background by at least 70 percent.Contrast in percent shall be determined by:

Contrast = [(B1 - B2)/B1] x 100

where B1 = light reflectance value (LRV) ofthe lighter area and B2 = light reflectancevalue (LRV) of the darker area.

Note that in any application both white andblack are never absolute; thus, B1 neverequals 100 and B2 is always greater than 0.

The greatest readability is usually achievedthrough the use of light-colored characters orsymbols on a dark background.

A4.30.7 Symbols of Accessibility forDifferent Types of Listening Systems.Paragraph 4 of this section requires signageindicating the availability of an assistivelistening system. An appropriate messageshould be displayed with the internationalsymbol of access for hearing loss since thissymbol conveys general accessibility forpeople with hearing loss. Some suggestionsare:

INFRAREDASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM

AVAILABLE----PLEASE ASK----

AUDIO LOOP IN USETURN T-SWITCH FOR

BETTER HEARING----OR ASK FOR HELP----

FMASSISTIVE LISTENINGSYSTEM AVAILABLE----PLEASE ASK----

The symbol may be used to notify persons ofthe availability of other auxiliary aids andservices such as: real time captioning, cap-tioned note taking, sign language interpret-ers, and oral interpreters.

A4.30.8 Illumination Levels. Illuminationlevels on the sign surface shall be in the 100to 300 lux range (10 to 30 footcandles) andshall be uniform over the sign surface. Signsshall be located such that the illuminationlevel on the surface of the sign is not signifi-cantly exceeded by the ambient light orvisible bright lighting source behind or infront of the sign.

A4.30 Signage

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A4.31 Telephones.

A4.31.3 Mounting Height. In localities wherethe dial-tone first system is in operation, callscan be placed at a coin telephone through theoperator without inserting coins. The operatorbutton is located at a height of 46 in (1170 mm)if the coin slot of the telephone is at 54 in (1370mm). A generally available public telephonewith a coin slot mounted lower on the equip-ment would allow universal installation oftelephones at a height of 48 in (1220 mm) orless to all operable parts.

A4.31.9 Text Telephones. A public texttelephone may be an integrated text telephonepay phone unit or a conventional portable texttelephone that is permanently affixed within, oradjacent to, the telephone enclosure. In orderto be usable with a pay phone, a text telephonewhich is not a single integrated text telephonepay phone unit will require a shelf largeenough (10 in (255mm) wide by 10 in (255 mm)deep with a 6 in (150 mm) vertical clearanceminimum) to accommodate the device, anelectrical outlet, and a power cord. Movable orportable text telephones may be used toprovide equivalent facilitation. A text telephoneshould be readily available so that a personusing it may access the text telephone easilyand conveniently. As currently designedpocket-type text telephones for personal use donot accommodate a wide range of users. Suchdevices would not be considered substantiallyequivalent to conventional text telephones.However, in the future as technology developsthis could change.

A4.32 Fixed or Built-in Seatingand Tables.

A4.32.4 Height of Tables or Counters.Different types of work require different table orcounter heights for comfort and optimal perfor-mance. Light detailed work such as writingrequires a table or counter close to elbowheight for a standing person. Heavy manualwork such as rolling dough requires a counteror table height about 10 in (255 mm) belowelbow height for a standing person. This prin-ciple of high/low table or counter heights alsoapplies for seated persons; however, the limitingcondition for seated manual work is clearanceunder the table or counter.

Table A1 shows convenient counter heights forseated persons. The great variety of heights forcomfort and optimal performance indicates aneed for alternatives or a compromise in heightif people who stand and people who sit will beusing the same counter area.

Table A1Convenient Heights of Tables

and Counters for Seated People1

Short TallWomen Men

Conditions of Use in mm in mm

Seated in a wheelchair:Manual work-Desk or removablearmrests 26 660 30 760

Fixed, full-size armrests2 323 815 323 815Light, detailed work:Desk or removablearmrests 29 735 34 865

Fixed, full-size armrests2 323 815 34 865Seated in a 16 in (405 mm)high chair:Manual work 26 660 27 685Light, detailed work 28 710 31 785

1All dimensions are based on a work-surfacethickness of 1 1/2 in (38 mm) and a clearanceof 1 1/2 in (38 mm) between legs and theunderside of a work surface.

2This type of wheelchair arm does not interferewith the positioning of a wheelchair under awork surface.

3This dimension is limited by the height of thearmrests: a lower height would be preferable.Some people in this group prefer lower worksurfaces, which require positioning the wheel-chair back from the edge of the counter.

A4.33 Assembly Areas.

A4.33.2 Size of Wheelchair Locations.Spaces large enough for two wheelchairs allowpeople who are coming to a performancetogether to sit together.

A4.33.3 Placement of WheelchairLocations. The location of wheelchair areascan be planned so that a variety of positions

A4.31 Telephones

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within the seating area are provided. This willallow choice in viewing and price categories.

Building/life safety codes set minimumdistances between rows of fixed seats withconsideration of the number of seats in a row,the exit aisle width and arrangement, and thelocation of exit doors. “Continental” seating,with a greater number of seats per row and a

commensurate increase in row spacing andexit doors, facilitates emergency egress for allpeople and increases ease of access tomid-row seats especially for people who walkwith difficulty. Consideration of this positiveattribute of “continental” seating should beincluded along with all other factors in thedesign of fixed seating areas.

Induction LoopTransmitter: Transducerwired to induction looparound listening area.Receiver: Self-containedinduction receiver orpersonal hearing aidwith telecoil.

Cost-EffectiveLow MaintenanceEasy to useUnobtrusiveMay be possible tointegrate into existingpublic address system.

Some hearing aids canfunction as receivers.

Signal spills over toadjacent rooms.

Susceptible to electricalinterference.

Limited portabilityInconsistent signalstrength

Head position affectssignal strength.

Lack of standards forinduction coilperformance.

Meeting areasTheatersChurches and TemplesConference roomsClassroomsTV viewing

FMTransmitter: Flashlight-sized worn by speaker.

Receiver: With personalhearing aid via DAI orinduction neck-loop and

telecoil; or self-contain-ed with earphone(s).

Highly portableDifferent channels allowuse by different groupswithin the same room.

High user mobilityVariable for large rangeof hearing losses.

High cost of receiversEquipment fragileEquipment obtrusiveHigh maintenanceExpensive to maintainCustom fitting toindividual user may berequired.

ClassroomsTour groupsMeeting areasOutdoor eventsOne-on-one

InfraredTransmitter: Emitter inline-of- sight withreceiver.

Receiver: Self-contained.Or with personal hearingaid via DAI or inductionneckloop and telecoil.

System TypicalApplications

Advantages Disadvantages

Easy to useInsures privacy orconfidentiality

Moderate costCan often be integratedinto existing publicaddress system.

Line-of-sight requiredbetween emitter andreceiver.

Ineffective outdoorsLimited portabilityRequires installation

Source: Rehab Brief, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Washington, DC, Vol. XII, No. 10, (1990).

Table A2. Summary of Assistive Listening Devices

TheatersChurches and TemplesAuditoriumsMeetings requiringconfidentiality

TV viewing

Table A2. Summary of Assistive Listening Devices

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A4.33.6 Placement of ListeningSystems. A distance of 50 ft (15 m) allows aperson to distinguish performers’ facialexpressions.

A4.33.7 Types of Listening Systems. Anassistive listening system appropriate for anassembly area for a group of persons or wherethe specific individuals are not known inadvance, such as a playhouse, lecture hall ormovie theater, may be different from the systemappropriate for a particular individual providedas an auxiliary aid or as part of a reasonableaccommodation. The appropriate device for anindividual is the type that individual can use,whereas the appropriate system for an assemblyarea will necessarily be geared toward the“average” or aggregate needs of variousindi-viduals. A listening system that can be usedfrom any seat in a seating area is the most flexibleway to meet this specification. Earphone jackswith variable volume controls can benefit onlypeople who have slight hearing loss and do nothelp people who use hearing aids. At the presenttime, magnetic induction loops are the mostfeasible type of listening system for people whouse hearing aids equipped with “T-coils,” butpeople without hearing aids or those with hearingaids not equipped with inductive pick-ups cannotuse them without special receivers. Radio fre-quency systems can be extremely effective andinexpensive. People without hearing aids can usethem, but people with hearing aids need a specialreceiver to use them as they are presently de-signed. If hearing aids had a jack to allow aby-pass of microphones, then radio frequencysystems would be suitable for people with andwithout hearing aids. Some listening systems maybe subject to interference from other equipmentand feedback from hearing aids of people who areusing the systems. Such interference can becontroll-ed by careful engineering design thatanticipates feedback sources in the surroundingarea.

Table A2, reprinted from a National Institute ofDisability and Rehabilitation Research “RehabBrief,” shows some of the advantages and disad-vantages of different types of assistive listeningsystems. In addition, the Architectural andTransportation Barriers Compliance Board(Access Board) has published a pamphlet onAssistive Listening Systems which lists demon-stration centers across the country wheretechnical assistance can be obtained in selectingand installing appropriate systems. The state of

New York has also adopted a detailed technicalspecification which may be useful.

A5.0 Restaurants and Cafeterias.

A5.1 General. Dining counters (where there isno service) are typically found in small carry-outrestaurants, bakeries, or coffee shops and mayonly be a narrow eating surface attached to awall. This section requires that where such adining counter is provided, a portion of thecounter shall be at the required accessible height.

A7.0 Business and Mercantile.

A7.2(3) Assistive Listening Devices. At allsales and service counters, teller windows, boxoffices, and information kiosks where a physicalbarrier separates service personnel and custom-ers, it is recommended that at least one perma-nently installed assistive listening device comply-ing with 4.33 be provided at each location orseries. Where assistive listening devices areinstalled, signage should be provided identifyingthose stations which are so equipped.

A7.3 Check-out Aisles. Section 7.2 refers tocounters without aisles; section 7.3 concernscheck-out aisles. A counter without an aisle (7.2)can be approached from more than one directionsuch as in a convenience store. In order to use acheck-out aisle (7.3), customers must enter adefined area (an aisle) at a particular point, payfor goods, and exit at a particular point.

A10.3 Fixed Facilities and Stations

A10.3.1(7) Route Signs. One means ofmaking control buttons on fare vending ma-chines usable by persons with vision impair-ments is to raise them above the surroundingsurface. Those activated by a mechanical motionare likely to be more detectable. If farecardvending, collection, and adjustment devices aredesigned to accommodate farecards having onetactually distinctive corner, then a person whohas a vision impairment will insert the card withgreater ease. Token collection devices that aredesigned to accommodate tokens which areperforated can allow a person to distinguish morereadily between tokens and common coins.Thoughtful placement of accessible gates andfare vending machines in relation to inaccessibledevices will make their use and detection easierfor all persons with disabilities.

A5.0 Restaurants and Cafeterias

[56 FR 35592, July 26, 1991, as amended by Order No. 1679-93, 58 FR 17522, Apr. 5, 1993; OrderNo. 1836-94, 59 FR 2675, Jan. 18, 1994]

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