ADA Requirements for a Wheelchair Ramp

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has specific requirements for wheelchair ramps to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities.

1. Slope
- The maximum slope of a wheelchair ramp is typically 1:12. This means for every 1 inch of vertical rise, there should be 12 inches of horizontal run. For example, if the ramp needs to rise 1 foot (12 inches), the horizontal length of the ramp should be at least 12 feet (144 inches)
2. Width
- The width of a wheelchair ramp should be at least 36 inches (91.44 cm). This allows enough space for a wheelchair to maneuver comfortably

3. Handrails
- Handrails are required on both sides of the ramp.
- The height of the handrails should be between 34 and 38 inches (86.36 - 96.52 cm) from the ramp surface.
- Handrails should have a diameter or width that is easy to grip, usually between 1.25 and 2 inches (3.175 - 5.08 cm).
- There should be a clearance of at least 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) between the handrail and the ramp or any adjacent surface.

4. Landing
- Ramps should have landings at the top and bottom.
- The landings should be at least as wide as the ramp itself and have a length of at least 60 inches (152.4 cm) in the direction of travel.
- If a ramp changes direction, an intermediate landing is required. This landing should be at least 60 inches by 60 inches (152.4 cm x 152.4 cm).

5. Surface
- The surface of the ramp should be firm, stable, and slip - resistant. It should not have any abrupt changes in level or texture that could cause a wheelchair to tip or be difficult to traverse.

6. Clearance
- There should be a minimum headroom clearance of 80 inches (203.2 cm) along the entire length of the ramp. This ensures that a person in a wheelchair can pass through without hitting their head on any overhanging structures.

These ADA requirements are crucial for creating wheelchair ramps that are safe and accessible, enabling people with disabilities to move independently and have equal access to buildings and public spaces.