Having a disability can pose multiple issues when one is trying to get into or come out of a building. Most commercial properties or structures that are open to the public are required by special laws that set forth guidelines to allow access to those with limited mobility. If looking to perform wheelchair ramp construction on a private residence, many find it advisable to follow certain rules to ensure the most safety.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted in 1990 and has set forth construction specification that provide for the safest ramps for those with limited mobility. They cover everything from the slope progression and width to guard rails and slip protection. It even suggests the most appropriate materials for various circumstances.
Adhering to theses specifications helps ensure that the project has better quality and is safe for the people who are to use it. It needs to be made suitable not only for those in chairs but also those using crutches, canes, walkers and walking normally. Those who choose to build these structures should understand the responsibility that they are opting to take on.
Structures of this type may be built from several different materials. If one intends the construction to remain as a permanent fixture, the most durable material is concrete, and though sturdy, it is also a bit expensive. Anti-slip textures can be added directly to the surface as it is drying.
Steel is strong but it requires galvanization in order to prevent corrosion and rust and texture added to prevent slipping. Aluminum is strong and weather resistant but it is also slippery and expensive. It has the additional concern of being lightweight so if not properly calculated, it may bend under the weight of an occupied heavy electrical wheelchair.
The most commonly used material for residential structures is wood because it is the most affordable though it will require maintenance. All surfaces should be well sanded and covered with several coats of varnish or sealant to prevent splinters, rotting and warping. Because nails tend to raise up over time, screws should be used to secure all boards and slats need to have spacing that allows water to drain but are not so far apart as to cause bumps or catch a cane or crutch.
According to ADA guidelines, a slope should rise a single inch for every twelve inches of length. This angle is easy enough for an individual to manually roll their own chair up the incline and to control their speed going down. Those same specifications suggest a level area of approximately 2' be place along each eight to ten feet of distance for rest and safe descent.
There is quite a bit of planning that goes into proper wheelchair ramp construction. The slope needs to be at a safe ratio and adequate steps should be taken to ensure the structure is durable and strong enough to hold the weight of all who pass over it as electric chairs are quite heavy. It needs to be easily traveled by those on wheels, crutches, walkers, canes and on feet.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted in 1990 and has set forth construction specification that provide for the safest ramps for those with limited mobility. They cover everything from the slope progression and width to guard rails and slip protection. It even suggests the most appropriate materials for various circumstances.
Adhering to theses specifications helps ensure that the project has better quality and is safe for the people who are to use it. It needs to be made suitable not only for those in chairs but also those using crutches, canes, walkers and walking normally. Those who choose to build these structures should understand the responsibility that they are opting to take on.
Structures of this type may be built from several different materials. If one intends the construction to remain as a permanent fixture, the most durable material is concrete, and though sturdy, it is also a bit expensive. Anti-slip textures can be added directly to the surface as it is drying.
Steel is strong but it requires galvanization in order to prevent corrosion and rust and texture added to prevent slipping. Aluminum is strong and weather resistant but it is also slippery and expensive. It has the additional concern of being lightweight so if not properly calculated, it may bend under the weight of an occupied heavy electrical wheelchair.
The most commonly used material for residential structures is wood because it is the most affordable though it will require maintenance. All surfaces should be well sanded and covered with several coats of varnish or sealant to prevent splinters, rotting and warping. Because nails tend to raise up over time, screws should be used to secure all boards and slats need to have spacing that allows water to drain but are not so far apart as to cause bumps or catch a cane or crutch.
According to ADA guidelines, a slope should rise a single inch for every twelve inches of length. This angle is easy enough for an individual to manually roll their own chair up the incline and to control their speed going down. Those same specifications suggest a level area of approximately 2' be place along each eight to ten feet of distance for rest and safe descent.
There is quite a bit of planning that goes into proper wheelchair ramp construction. The slope needs to be at a safe ratio and adequate steps should be taken to ensure the structure is durable and strong enough to hold the weight of all who pass over it as electric chairs are quite heavy. It needs to be easily traveled by those on wheels, crutches, walkers, canes and on feet.
About the Author:
When there is a need for wheelchair ramp construction, visit the web pages here today. You can see details online at http://bosworthbuilders.net now.
via oneofthebest
0 commentaires:
Enregistrer un commentaire