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376221027
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"36 CFR Part 1191: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities; Proposed Rule" [1991]
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376221027
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"36 CFR Part 1191: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities; Proposed Rule" [1991]
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
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This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
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Record Group/Collection:
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Government Records
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Federal Laws
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Folder Title:
"36 CFR Part 1191: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and
Facilities; Proposed Rule" [1991]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
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G
5
2
1
3
lex- -
Thought
you'd
way lown
Tuesday
January 22, 1991
Part V
Architectural and
Transportation
Barriers Compliance
Board
36 CFR Part 1191
Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)
Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and
Facilities; Proposed Rule
2296
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
ARCHITECTURAL AND
sex, national origin, and religion under
"Commercial facilities" are defined by
TRANSPORTATION BARRIERS
the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title III of
section 301(1) of the ADA as facilities
COMPLIANCE BOARD
the ADA prohibits discrimination on the
that are intended for nonresidential use
basis of disability in places of public
and whose operations will affect
36 CFR Part 1191
accommodation by any person who
commerce. The legislative history states
owns, leases (or leases to), or operates a
[Docket No. 90-2]
that the term is to be interpreted broadly
place of public accommodation. As
to cover commercial establishments that
RIN 3014-AA09
discussed below, title III establishes
are not included within the specific
accessibility requirements for new
definition of "public accommodation"
Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)
construction and alterations in places of
such as office buildings, factories, and
Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings
public accommodation and commercial
other places in which employment will
and Facilities
facilities.
occur. H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at 116-17.
"Public accommodation" is defined by
AGENCY: Architectural and
Section 303 of the ADA establishes
section 301(7) of the ADA as including
Transportation Barriers Compliance
accessibility requirements for new
the following twelve categories of
Board.
construction and alterations in places of
private entities if their operations affect
public accommodation and commercial
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.
commerce:
facilities. With respect to new
(1) An inn, hotel, motel, or other place
SUMMARY: The Architectural and
construction, section 303(a)(1) requires
of lodging, except for an establishment
Transportation Barriers Compliance
that places of public accommodation
located within a building that contains
Board is issuing proposed guidelines to
not more than five rooms for rent or hire
and commercial facilities designed or
provide guidance to the Department of
constructed for first occupancy after
and that is actually occupied by the
Justice in establishing accessibility
January 26, 1993 (30 months after the
proprietor of such establishment as the
standards for new construction and
date of enactment of the ADA), must be
residence of such proprietor;
alterations in places of public
(2) A restaurant, bar, or other
readily accessible to and usable by
accommodation and commercial
establishment serving food or drink;
individuals with disabilities, except
facilities, as required by the Americans
(3) A motion picture house, theater,
where an entity can demonstrate that it
with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. The
concert hall, stadium, or other place of
is structurally impracticable. When
guidelines will ensure that newly
exhibition or entertainment;
alterations are made that affect or could
constructed and altered buildings and
(4) An auditorium, convention center,
affect usability of a place of public
facilities are readily accessible to and
lecture hall, or other place of public
accommodation or commercial facility,
usable by individuals with disabilities in
gathering;
section 303(a)(2) requires that the
terms of architecture and design, and
(5) A bakery, grocery store, clothing
alterations be made in such a manner
communication. The standards
store, hardware store, shopping center,
that, to the maximum extent feasible,
established by the Department of Justice
or other sales or rental establishment;
the altered portions of the facility are
cannot be consistent with and may
(6) A laundromat, dry-cleaner, bank,
readily accessible to and usable by
incorporate the guidelines.
barber shop, beauty shop, travel service,
individuals with disabilities. In addition,
DATES: Comments should be received by
shoe repair service, funeral parlor, gas
where alterations affect or could affect
March 25, 1991. Comments received
station, office of an accountant or
usability of or access to an area of the
after this date will be considered to the
lawyer, pharmacy, insurance office,
facility containing a primary function,
extent practicable.
professional office of a health care
section 303(a)(2) requires that the
ADDRESSES: Comments should be sent
provider, hospital, or other service
alterations be made in such a manner
to the Office of the General Counsel,
establishment;
that, to the maximum extent feasible,
(7) A terminal, depot, or other station
the path of travel to the altered area,
Architectural and Transportation
used for specified public transportation;
and the restrooms, telephones, and
Barriers Compliance Board, 1111 18th
Street, NW., suite 501, Washington, DC
(8) A museum, library, gallery, or
drinking fountains serving the altered
20036. Comments will be available for
other place of public display or
area are readily accessible to and
collection;
usable by individuals with disabilities to
inspection at this address from 9 a.m. to
5:30 p.m. on regular business days.
(9) A park, zoo, amusement park, or
the extent that these additional
other place of recreation;
accessibility features are not
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
(10) A nursery, elementary. secondary,
disproportionate to the overall
James Raggio, Office of the General
undergraduate, or postgraduate private
alterations in terms of cost and scope,
Counsel, Architectural and
school, or other place of education;
as determined under criteria established
Transportation Barriers Compliance
(11) A day care center, senior citizen
by the Attorney General.
Board, 1111-18th Street, NW., suite 501,
center, homeless shelter, food bank,
Section 303(b) of the ADA contains an
Washington, DC 20036. Telephone (202)
adoption agency, or other social service
exception which specifies that the
653-7834 (Voice/TDD). This is not a toll-
center establishment; and
installation of an elevator is not
free number. This document is available
(12) A gymnasium, health spa,
required for newly constructed or
in accessible formats (cassette tape,
bowling alley, golf course, or other place
altered facilities that are less than three
braille, large print, or computer disc)
of exercise or recreation.
stories or have less than 3,000 square
upon request.
The legislative history states that
feet per story unless the building is a
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
these twelve categories "should be
shopping center, shopping mall, the
Background
construed liberally consistent with the
professional office of a health care
intent of the legislation that people with
provider, or another type of facility
The Americans With Disabilities Act
disabilities should have equal access to
determined by the Attorney General to
(ADA) of 1990 extends to individuals
the array of establishments that are
require the installation of an elevator
with disabilities comprehensive civil
available to others who do not currently
based on the usage of the facility.
rights protections similar to those
have disabilities." H. Rept. 101-485, pt.
According to the legislative history.
provided to persons on the basis of race,
2, at 100.
the term "readily accessible to and
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2297
usable by" is intended to provide "a
faced by individuals with disabilities.¹
ADA (55 FR 35858). As explained in the
high degree of convenient accessibility"
The Board has developed guidelines to
ANPRM, MGRAD includes technical
and "enable people with disabilities
provide guidance to the four Federal
specifications which describe how to
(including mobility, sensory, and
agencies (the General Services
make entrances, telephones, drinking
cognitive impairments) to get to, enter
Administration, the Department of
fountains, toilet rooms, and other
and use a facility." H. Rept. 101-485, pt.
Defense, the Department of Housing and
elements and spaces of a building or
2. at 117-18. The term includes
Urban Development, and the United
facility accessible; and scoping
"accessibility of parking areas,
States Postal Service) responsible for
provisions which specify the extent to
accessible routes to and from the
establishing accessibility standards for
which the technical specifications must
facility. accessible entrances, usable
those federally owned. leased, or
be followed (how many, when, and
bathrooms and water fountains,
financed buildings covered by the
where accessible elements and spaces
accessibility of public and common use
Architectural Barriers Act of 1968. Those
must be provided in a facility).
areas, and access to the goods, services,
guidelines are called the Minimum
programs, facilities, accommodations
Guidelines and Requirements for
Throughout the development of its
and work areas available at the
Accessible Design (MGRAD) and are
guidelines, the Board has used the 1980
and 1986 versions of the American
facility." Id. The legislative history
published at 36 CFR part 1190. The
standards established by the four
National Standard Institute's ANSI
further explains that when identical
A117.1 standard as the basis for the
features will generally serve the same
Federal agencies are called the Uniform
function, only a reasonable number
Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS)
technical specifications. The ANSI
should be accessible depending on such
and were published in the Federal
A117.1 standard is developed through a
factors as their use, location, and
Register on August 7. 1984 (49 FR
consensus process by a committee made
number; however, when identical
31528).2 UFAS is generally consistent
up of over 50 organizations representing
features will generally be used in
with MGRAD.
associations of individuals with
different ways, each one should be
Section 504 of the ADA requires that
disabilities, rehabilitation professionals,
accessible in most situations. H. Rept.
the guidelines issued by the Board under
designers, builders, manufacturers, and
101-485, pt. 2, at 118; H. Rept. 101-485,
the ADA supplement the existing
government agencies. The ANSI A117.1
pt. 3. at 61. For example, only a
MGRAD and "establish additional
standard has been generally accepted
reasonable number of spaces in a
requirements, consistent with this Act,
by the private sector, and has been
parking lot or stalls within a restroom
to ensure that buildings [and] facilities
incorporated or referenced in the model
***
would have to be accessible, but all
are accessible in terms of
building codes. Two-thirds of the States
meeting rooms at a conference center
architecture and design
and
currently incorporate or reference the
would have to be accessible because
communication, to individuals with
1980 or 1986 versions of the ANSI A117.1
each one may be used for different
disabilities." 3 The legislative history
standard, or other documents such as
purposes at any given time. Id. The
further explains that the guidelines may
the model building codes of UFAS which
legislative history contains additional
not "reduce, weaken, narrow or set less
are based on those standards, in their
examples of features which would have
accessibilitly standards than those
building codes.
to be accessible at specific facilities,
included in existing MGRAD" and
The ANPRM reviewed the different
including banks. hotels. physicians'
should provide greater guidance in the
formats utilized by MGRAD and UFAS,
offices. and supermarkets. Id.
area of communication accessibility for
and proposed three possible options for
Title III of the ADA becomes effective
individuals with hearing and visual
the guidelines to be issued under the
on January 26, 1992. Under section
impairments. H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at
ADA:
306(b) of the ADA, the Department of
139. Section 504 of the ADA also
requires that the guidelines include
Option 1. Use the ANSI format and
Justice is responsible for issuing final
provisions based on UFAS for
numbering system and reprint the text
regulations by July 26, 1991, that include
alterations to qualified historic
and illustrations of the ANSI A117.1
accessibility standards for newly
constructed and altered places of public
properties.
standard, with modifications and
accommodation and commercial
On August 31, 1990, the Board
additions noted by italics or other
facilities. Section 504 of the ADA
published an advance notice of
means, similar to what is done in UFAS.
requires that the Architectural and
proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) seeking
Option 2. Use the Federal Register
Transportation Barriers Compliance
comments from the public on the format
format and numbering system and
Board issue guidelines by April 26, 1991,
for the guidelines to be issued under the
incorporate by reference the ANSI
to provide guidance to the Department
A117.1 standard, with modifications and
of Justice in establishing the standards.
1 The Board consists of 12 members appointed by
additions listed under an "exceptions"
Section 306(c) of the ADA provides that
the President from among the general public. at
section, similar to what is done in the
least six of whom are required to be individuals
the Department of Justice's standards
1982 version of MGRAD.
with disabilities, and the heads of 11 Federal
must be consistent with the Board's
agencies or their designees (Executive Level IV or
Option 3. Use the Federal Register
guidelines. According to the legislative
above). The Federal agencies are: the Departments
format and numbering system and
history, the Department of Justice's
of Health and Human Services, Education,
reorganize the text and illustrations of
Transportation. Housing and Urban Development,
standardsunay incorporate the Board's
Labor. Interior. Defense. Justice, and Veterans
the ANSI A117.1 standard, similar to
guidelines. H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at 119.
Affairs: General Services Administration: and
The Board is an independent Federal
United States Postal Service.
4 American National Specifications for Making
agency established pursuant to section
8 The General Services Administration and the
Buildings and Facilities Accessible to and Usable by
502 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Physically Handicapped People (ANSI A117.1-1980);
have respectively published UFAS as an appendix
American National Standard for Buildings and
ensure that the requirements of the
to 41 CFR part 101, subpart 101-19.6 and 24 CFR
Facilities-Providing Accessibility and Usability for
Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 are
part 40.
Physically Handicapped People (ANSI A117.1-1986).
met and to propose alternative solutions
3 Section 504 of the ADA also requires the Board
The ANSI A117.1 standard contains only technical
to architectural, transportation,
to issue accessibility guidelines for transportation
specifications. Government bodies which use the
vehicles. Those guidelines will appear in a separate
communication, and attitudinal barriers
ANSI A117.1 standard must develop their own
notice of proposed rulemaking.
scoping provisions.
2298
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
what was done in the 1982 version of
ANSI process for making revisions to
lesser requirement than an existing
MGRAD.
the ANSI A117.1 standard and adopt the
MGRAD requirement, the MGRAD
Comments were requested on which
proposed scoping provisions under
requirement has been used. For
option would promote greatest ease of
development by the Council of
instance, UFAS does not address
use by the public, especially if the
American Building Officials' Board for
windows but MGRAD does; and
standards established by the
the Coordination of Model Codes
therefore the MGRAD requirement is
Department of Justice incorporate the
(BCMC) for the ANSI A117.1 standard.
used. See, § 4.12. To distinguish these
Board's guidelines. A total of 59
The ANSI A117.1 standard is reviewed
proposed guidelines from MGRAD and
comments were received from
at five year intervals and is presently in
UFAS, the Board proposes to call them
organizations representing individuals
the process of being revised by the ANSI
the "ADA Accessibility Guidelines for
with disabilities, State agencies
A117 Committee. The Board is a
Buildings and Facilities" (hereinafter
responsible for accessibility, building
member of the ANSI A117 Committee
referred to as the "ADA Guidelines").
code groups, businesses, architects,
and has actively participated in the
Although the proposed ADA
schools of architecture, and various
revision process. A proposed draft ANSI
guidelines are modeled on UFAS, the
other government agencies and
A117.1-1991 is expected to be issued in
ADA establishes different requirements
individuals. Forty-eight (48) commenters,
early 1991; however the final version is
in some areas. For example, as
the overwhelming majority, preferred
not expected to be approved in time for
discussed above, title III of the ADA
Option 1 (i.e., using the ANSI format and
the Board to review for purposes of
requires certain additional accessibility
numbering system and reprinting the
issuing these guidelines. Nonetheless,
features to be provided where
text and illustrations of the A117.1
the Board has considered the planned
alterations "affect or could affect
standard, with modifications and
revisons to the ANSI A117.1 standard
when proposing revisions to the
usability of or access to an area of a
additions noted by italics or other
means, similar to what is done in
technical specifications. For instance,
facility containing a primary function"
UFAS).5. The most frequently stated
changes are proposed to the technical
to the extent they are "not
reason for using Option 1 was to have
specifications for alarms, detectable
disproportionate" to the overall
warnings, and signage to provide greater
alterations in terms of cost and scope.
all scoping provisions and technical
guidance with respect to communication
UFAS requires certain additional
specifications readily available in a
single document without the need to
accessibility. The proposed changes are
accessibility features to be provided
reference other documents. Commenters
generally consistent with the planned
where a substantial alteration occurs.
who preferred Option 1 also noted that
revisions to the ANSI A117.1 standard.
See, § 4.1.6(2) for additional discussion.
it would promote consistency with State
See, sections 4.28, 4.29 and 4.30 for
Title III of the ADA includes an
and local building codes and facilitate
additional discussion. With respect to
exception for "structural
voluntary certification of those codes by
the proposed BCMC scoping provisions,
impracticability" in new construction.
in some areas they are consistent with
UFAS includes an exception for
the Attorney General under section
the ADA requirements and in other
"structural impracticability" in
308(b)(1)(A)(ii) of the ADA.6 Three
model code groups and two businesses
areas they are not. Where other scoping
alterations. See, § 4.1.1(5) for additional
provisions are consistent with the ADA
discussion. Title III of the ADA does not
preferred Option 2, and generally
observed that the incorporation by
requirements, the Board has considered
require an elevator in newly constructed
and will continue to consider them in
or altered facilities that are less than
reference approach has been used
the course of developing these
three stories or have less than 3,000
satisfactorily in the building codes.⁷
Two commenters preferred Option 3.
guidelines.
square feet per story unless the building
Based on the comments received in
is a certain type of facility. UFAS does
Four commenters did not specify a
response to the ANPRM, the Board has
not contain such an exception. See,
preference for any format.
decided to use the ANSI format and
§ 4.1.3(5) for additional discussion.
The model code groups also
numbering system and reprint the text
In reviewing the legislative history of
recommended that the Board rely on the
and illustrations of ANSI A117.1
the ADA, the Board has also found some
standard, with modifications and
areas where a requirement that differs
. Those preferring Option 1 include: American
additions noted by italics. This is the
from UFAS is suggested. For example,
Hotel and Motel Association: American Society of
Interior Designers; Marriott Corporation: National
format followed by UFAS. Since the
the Conference Report states that "every
Association of Theater Owners; National
substantive requirements of UFAS are
newly constructed facility subject to the
Restaurant Association: Alaska Department of
generally consistent with MGRAD, and
Act shall have at least one ground story
Transportation and Public Facilities: Hawaii
because UFAS was written so as to be
that is readily accessible to and usable
Commission on Persons with Disabilities: New York
State Office of Advocate for the Disabled: Oregon
incorporated as accessibility standards
by individuals with disabilities." H.
Building Officials Association: Texas State
in regulations issued by other Federal
Rept. 101-596, at 77. UFAS requires at
Purchasing and General Services Commission:
agencies, the Board has used UFAS as
least one principal entrance at each
Washington Association of Building Officials:
the model for these proposed
grade (ground) floor level to a building
American Council of the Blind; Disability Rights
Education and Defense Fund. Inc.; National Council
guidelines.8 Where UFAS establishes a
or facility to be accessible. See,
on Independent Living: and Paralyzed Veterans of
§ 4.1.3(8) for additional discussion. The
America.
a Section 306(d)(1) of the ADA provides for UFAS
House Education and Labor Committee
6 Section 308(b)(1)(A)(ii) of the ADA provides that
to serve as the interim accessibility standard for the
Report states that a percentage of
on application of a State or local government, the
ADA under certain circumstances. The section
examining rooms in physicians' offices
Attorney General may. in consultation with the
states in relevant part that:
Board, and after prior notice and a public hearing.
If final regulations have not been issued pursuant
should be accessible. H. Rept. 101-485,
certify that a State or local building code meets or
to this section, for new construction or alterations
pt 2. at 118. UFAS requires with respect
exceeds the accessibility requirements of the ADA.
for which 8 valid and appropriate State or local
to physicians' offices that all areas for
7 Option 2 was preferred by the Building Officials
building permit is obtained prior to the issuance of
and Code Administrators (BOCA) International;
final regulations under this section, and for which
Council of American Building Officials (CABO):
the construction or alteration authorized by such
Accessibility Standards in effect at the time the
Southern Building Code Congress International
permit begins within one year of the receipt of such
building permit is issued shall suffice to satisfy the
(SBCCI): National Elevator Industry: and Schindler
permit and is completed under the terms of such
requirement that facilities be readily accessible to
Elevator Corporation.
permit, compliance with the Uniform Federal
and usable by persons with disabilities.
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2299
which the intended use will require
The Board also intends through a
additional information to aid in
public access or which may result in
subsequent notice of proposed
understanding the technical
employment of persons with disabilities
rulemaking to include State and local
specifications. The section numbers in
must be accessible. See, § 4.1.1(3) for
government buildings covered by title II
the appendix correspond to the sections
additional discussion. Although the
of the ADA in these guidelines and
of the technical specifications to which
reports of the House Education and
encourages State and local government
they relate. An asterisk after a technical
Labor Committee and the House
agencies, as well as other interested
specification section number indicates
Judiciary Committee generally recognize
parties, to comment on this notice of
that additional information appears in
that the extent to which identical
proposed rulemaking in the context of
the
features should be accessible depends
how the guidelines will affect those
Each section is further discussed
on whether they will be used in different
buildings. Many newly constructed or
below. If a section differs from UFAS, it
ways, the former report but not the
altered State and local government
is discussed in greater detail. In some
latter states that "all check-out lanes in
buildings are designed or altered
areas, the Board is considering varying
a supermarket should be sufficiently
consistent with UFAS under current
from UFAS but seeks information and
wide to allow passage by individuals
regulations issued under section 504 of
comment from the public before taking
who use wheelchairs." Compare, H.
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which
further action. Wherever possible, the
Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at 118 and H. Rept.
prohibits discrimination on the basis of
Board seeks empirical data regarding
101-485, pt. 3, at 61. UFAS requires at
disability by recipients of Federal
the benefits and costs of each
least one check-out aisle to be
financial assistance. However, the ADA
alternative.
accessible. See, § 7.3 for additional
requirements for newly constructed and
discussion. The Board has attempted to
altered State and local government
1. Purpose
reconcile these differences in a
buildings differ in some aspects from
This section states that the document
reasonable way consistent with the
those for places of public
sets guidelines for accessibility to places
statute.
accommodation and commercial
of public accommodation and
Consistent with the mandate of
facilities. For example, the exception for
commercial facilities. The guidelines are
Section 504 of the ADA, the Board
structural impracticability in new
to be applied to the design, construction,
proposes to provide greater guidance
construction and the elevator exception
and alteration of such buildings and
than UFAS in the area of
for newly constructed and altered
facilities to the extent required by title
communication accessibility. The
facilities that are less than three stories
III of the ADA. The Board intends
scoping provisions for new construction
or have less than 3,000 square feet per
through subsequent notices of proposed
contain additional requirements for
story do not apply to State and local
rulemaking to include State and local
telecommunication display devices or
government buildings. The Board has
government buildings and
telecommunication devices for the deaf
identified other areas where different
transportation facilities covered by title
(TDDs). volume control telephones, and
requirements for State and local
II of the ADA in the guidelines.
assistive listening systems for
government buildings may be
Accordingly. State and local government
individuals with hearing and other
appropriate. These issues are further
agencies and providers of transportation
communication impairments. Improved
discussed under Other Issues.
services, as well as other interested
technical specifications for alarms,
Summary of Proposed Guidelines
parties, are encouraged to comment on
detectable warnings. and signage are
The proposed ADA guidelines are
this notice of proposed rulemaking in
also proposed which are generally
issued as an appendix to 36 CFR part
the context of how the proposed
consistent with planned revisions to the
ANSI A117.1 standard.
1191. As discussed above, the proposed
guidelines will affect State and local
guidelines use UFAS as their model;
government buildings and
The proposed ADA guidelines also
follow the ANSI format and numbering
transportation facilities.
contain special application sections
system; and are consistent with the
2. General
similar to UFAS for certain types of
existing MGRAD. The proposed
facilities. Special application sections
guidelines consist of nine main sections
2.1 Provisions for Adults
are proposed for restaurants and
and a separate appendix. Sections one
This section states that the technical
cafeterias, medical care facilities,
through three contain general provisions
specifications in the guidelines are
business and mercantile facilities,
and definitions. Section four contains
based upon adult dimensions and
libraries, and transient lodging. The
scoping provisions and technical
anthropometrics.
Board is developing a special
specifications applicable to all covered
Title III of the ADA covers day care
application section for transportation
buildings and facilities. The scoping
centers and nursery, elementary,
facilities covered by titles II and III of
provisions are listed separately for new
secondary. undergraduate, and
the ADA which it intends to issue as a
construction of sites and exterior
postgraduate private schools. The Board
supplemental notice of proposed
facilities; new construction; additions:
believes that the technical specifications
rulemaking (SNPRM) to these guidelines.
alterations; and alterations to qualified
in the guidelines are adequate for
Section 10 of the guidelines is reserved
historic properties. The technical
secondary. undergraduate and
for this purpose. The SNPRM will make
specifications reprint the text and
postgraduate schools, but are not
these guidelines applicable to both
illustrations of the ANSI A117.1
appropriate for facilities used by
public and private transportation
standard with differences noted by
younger children. In 1985, the Board, in
facilities covered by titles II and III of
italics. Sections five through nine of the
cooperation with the Department of
the ADA. Accordingly, public and
guidelines are special application
Education, developed
private transportation providers, as well
sections and contain additional
"Recommendations for Accessibility to
as other interested parties, are
requirements for restaurants and
Serve Physically Handicapped Children
encouraged to comment on this notice of
cafeterias, medical care facilities,
in Elementary Schools." This document
proposed rulemaking in the context of
business and mercantile facilities,
was developed following a review of
how the guidelines will affect
libraries, and transient lodging. The
research and existing guidelines for
transportation facilities.
appendix to the guidelines contains
children's environments. The Board's
2300
Federal Register VoL 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
MGRAD/UFAS Review Project
location of the door) on the door opening
These guidelines use several terms
completed in 1989 recommended that
side, by 54 inches, if the clear floor area
which do not appear in UFAS. The
the Board conduct a formal research
and the configuration of the car permits
terms "area of refuge," "closed circuit
project to review and improve these
wheelchair users to enter the car, make
telephone," "detectable warning," and
recommendations and to incorporate
a 360 degree turn, maneuver within
"telecommunication display device or
children's accessibility requirements as
reach of controls, and exit from the car.
telecommunication device for the deaf
part of MGRAD. A Board sponsored
This departure is permissible because it
(TDD)" and their definitions are
project on "Accessibility Standards for
results in access that is easy, safe,
discussed under the scoping provisions
Children's Environments" is currently
convenient, and independent, and
underway. After the completion of this
for new construction. See, §§ 4.1.3 (9),
therefore substantially equivalent to
(15), and (17)(c). The terms "story,"
project in date summer of 1991, the Board
that provided by guidelines.
"mezzanine or mezzanine letel," and
anticipates supplementing these
guidelines for children's environments.
3. Miscellaneous Instructions and
"occupiable" and their definitions are
Question 1: To assist the Board and
Definitions
discussed in connection with the
its contractor, the Board seeks any
elevator exception for facilities that are
3.1 Graphic Conventions
less than three stories or have less than
information relevant to requirements for
children. Additionally, since the
3.2 Dimensional Tolerances
3,000 square feet per story. See,
§ 4.1.3(5). A definition has also been
requirements should likely differ for
3.3 Notes
very small children, and there is a lack
added for the term "ground floor" which
of any known information on this topic,
3.4 General Terminology
is discussed in relation to the scoping
the Board is particularly interested in
provision for entrances. See, § 4.1.3(8).
These sections are taken directly from
information and technical studies
The term "technically infeasible" is used
UFAS and are consistent with the ANSI
relating to preschool aged children.
in the scoping provisions for alterations.
A117.1 standard. They provide general
See, § 4.1.6(1)(g). The term "transient
2.2 Equivalent Facilitation
instructions relating to graphic
lodging" is used to describe hotels,
conventions, dimensional tolerances, the
This section permits departures from
motels, resorts, dormitories, homeless
appendix to the guidelines. and
particular scoping provisions and
shelters, transient group homes and
terminology.
technical specifications by use of other
other similar temporary places of
methods where the alternative methods
3.5 Definitions
lodging covered by title III of the ADA
used will provide substantially
which is discussed along with other
equivalent or greater access to and
With a few exceptions discussed
related terms in the special application
below, the definitions in this section are
usability of the facility. As explained in
section titled "Accessible Transient
the legislative history. "[a]llowing these
taken from UFAS and are similar to the
Lodging". See, section 9.
departures will provide public
definitions used in the ANSI A117.1
accommodations and commercial
standard. In some instances, the
4. Accessible Elements and Spaces:
facilities with necessary flexibility to
definitions are clarified or elaborated.
Scope and Technical Requirements
design for special circumstances and
Most of the terms and definitions are
4.1 Minimum Requirements
will facilitate the application of new
discussed as they appear in the scoping
technologies." H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at
provisions. See, §§ 4.1.1 through 4.1.7.
4.1.1 Application
119.
The definition of facility is drawn
When a place of public
The section requires that the
from the legislative history and includes
accommodation or commercial facility is
alternative methods provide
all or any portion of buildings,
newly constructed or altered, it is
"substantially" equivalent or greater
structures, site improvements,
covered by these guidelines. Paragraph
access, in order to clarify that the
complexes, equipment, roads, walks,
(1) makes clear that all areas of covered
alternative access need not be precisely
passageways, parking lots, or other real
buildings and facilities must comply
equivalent to that afforded by the
or personal property located on a site.
with §§ 4.1 through 4.34 of the guidelines
guidelines. Application of the
H. Rept. No. 101-485, pt. 2, at 114. With
unless otherwise provided in this
"substantially" equivalent access
respect to equipment, these guidelines
section or modified by a special
language will depend on the nature,
address equipment that is fixed or built
application section. This includes public
location, and intended use of a
into a facility and is considered part of
use areas that are made available to the
particular building. Generally,
the design and construction of the
general public and common areas that
alternative methods will satisfy the
building or facility. Such equipment
are made available for the use of a
requirement if in material respects the
includes fixed or built-in tables,
restricted group of people such as the
access is substantially equivalent to that
counters, desks, storage, bookshelves,
occupants of an office building and their
which would be provided by the
and other furnishings. Automated teller
guests.
guidelines in such respects as ease,
machines in banks are also covered.
Paragraph (2) points out that
safety, convenience, and independence
Movable equipment and furnishings are
additional requirements are provided in
of movement. For example, it would be
expected to be addressed in regulations
permissible to depart from the technical
issued by the Department of Justice.
special application sections 5 through 9
for restaurants and cafeterias, medical
specifications of § 4.10.9 that the inside
The term "building" has been defined
care facilities, business and mercantile
dimensions of an elevator car be at deast
to mean any structure used or intended
facilities, libraries, and transient
€8 inches or 80 inches (depending on the
for supporting or sheltering any use or
lodging. When a building or facility
occupancy. The definition is derived
contains more than one use covered by
9 Throughout the preamble. the Board asks
from the Uniform Building Code and is
a special application section, each
questions or seeks information on specific issues.
intended to make clear that structures
To assist interested parties in responding to the
portion must comply with the applicable
questions and to facilitate analysis of responses to
such as amphitheaters, open-air
requirements for that use. For example,
the questions, each question in numbered and
pavilions, circus tents, concession
if a hotel has a restaurant on the
commenters are encouraged to clearly identify or
stands and modular buildings are
premises, the hotel would have to
refer to the question number in their comments.
covered by these guidelines.
comply with the additional requirements
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2301
in section 9 for transient lodging and the
exhibit areas, temporary banking
Paragraph (5)(b) provides an
restaurant would have to comply with
facilities, temporary health screening
exception for elevator pits, elevator
the additional requirements in section 5
facilities, and temporary pedestrian
penthouses, piping or equipment
for restaurants and cafeterias.
passageways erected around
catwalks, and lookout galleries. These
Paragraph (3) specifies that areas used
construction sites. Structures, sites, and
spaces are usually accessed only by
only by employees as work stations
equipment directly associated with the
ladders, crawl spaces, or very narrow
must be designed and constructed so
actual processes of major construction,
passageways and are frequented only
that individuals with disabilities can
such as scaffolding. bridging, or
occasionally by service personnel for
approach. enter. and exit the area. The
materials hoists are not covered.
repair purposes. They are not normally
guidelines do not require the fixtures
Question 3: With respect to trailers at
considered an employee work station.
and built-in equipment in every work
construction worksites, the legislative
Mechanical rooms, electrical and
station to be fully accessible. As
history suggests that accessibility to
telephone closets, and general utility
explained in the legislative history.
those temporary structures should be
rooms have not been included in the
modifications to fixtures and built-in
treated as a reasonable accommodation
exception because these spaces may be
equipment in individual workstations
issue and that under some
part of an employee work station and it
would be an issue of reasonable
circumstances it might fundamentally
is usually not difficult to provide access
accommodation under title I of the ADA
alter the nature of a construction site or
to these spaces. As discussed above,
which prohibits discrimination in
be unduly costly to provide or maintain
paragraph (3) requires that employee
employment on the basis of disability.
accessibility for an applicant or
work stations be designed and
H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 3, at 63. Because it
employee who uses a wheelchair if, for
constructed so that individuals with
is always less expensive to build
example, the site's terrain and building
disabilities can approach, enter, and exit
something new in an accessible manner
structure change daily as construction
the area. The location of fixtures and
than to modify it later. the legislative
progresses. H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at 69-
built-in equipment in employee work
history recommends that, if it would not
70. The Board seeks comments on
stations would be an issue of reasonable
affect usability or enjoyment by the
whether these guidelines should address
accommodation.
general public. consideration should be
construction trailers. and if so, what the
Question 4: The Board seeks comment
given in new construction to placing
guidelines should provide.
on whether there are other types of
fixtures and equipment at a convenient
Paragraph (5)(a) incorporates the
spaces which should be exempted from
height for accessibility or, where
exception contained in section 303(a)(1)
commercially available, purchasing new
of the ADA and provides that, in new
the guidelines. Instead of listing specific
fixtures and equipment that are
construction, an entity is not required to
types of spaces. should functional
adjustable so that reasonable
fully comply with the requirements of
criteria be developed for identifying
these guidelines where the entity can
such spaces? If so, what should the
accommodations can be made in the
functional criteria be?
future. Id. The Board wishes to
demonstrate that it is structurally
emphasize that paragraph (3) applies to
impracticable. 10 The legislative history
4.1.2 Accessible Sites and Exterior
areas used only by employees as work
states that this is a narrow exception
Facilities
stations such as the employee side of a
which applies only in rare
This section is taken from UFAS
concession stand in a sports stadium
circumstances where unique
characteristics of terrain prevent the
§ 4.1.1 and contains scoping provisions
and not to public use or common use
which describe how the technical
areas such as employee lounges or
incorporation of accessibility features
cafeterias which are covered by
and would destroy the physical integrity
specifications in §§ 4.2 to 4.34 are to be
paragraph (1).
of a facility. H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at
applied to make sites and exterior
facilities accessible.
Question 2. The Board notes that the
120. The legislative history gives the
example of a building that must be built
Paragraph (1) requires at least one
legislative history suggests that in
on stilts because of its location in
accessible route complying with 4.3
physicians' offices only a percentage of
marshlands or over water as one of the
(accessible route) to be provided within
examining rooms would have to be
accessible. Because examining rooms
few situations in which the exception
the boundary of the site. An accessible
are also employee areas, they would
would apply. Id. The legislative history
route must connect public transportation
have to be designated and constructed
further states that exception does not
stops, accessible parking spaces,
so that individuals with disabilities can
apply to situations where a facility is
passenger loading zones, and public
located in "hilly" terrain or on a plot of
streets and sidewalks to an accessible
approach. enter, and exit the rooms. The
land with steep slopes. Id. The
building entrance. See, § 4.3 for a
location of particular fixtures or built-in
equipment that are used only by
legislative history also explains that the
discussion of travel distance. Exterior
exception is not viewed as an all-or-
accessible routes may include parking
doctors. nurses, or other health care
personnel would be an issue of
nothing proposition. If it is structually
access aisles, curb ramps, crosswalks at
impracticable to comply with some
vehicular ways, walks, ramps and lifts.
reasonable accommodation. The Board
requirements of these guidelines, but
Paragraph (2) requires at least one
seeks comments on whether there are
particular fixtures or built-in equipment
structually practicable to comply with
accessible route complying with 4.3
in examining rooms that are also used
others, then the other requirements must
(accessible route) to connect accessible
be met. Id.
buildings, accessible facilities,
by patients such as examining tables
accessible elements, and accessible
which should be addressed in these
spaces that are on the same site.
guidelines and what scoping provisions
10 The term "structurally impracticable" is used
and technical specifications should
differently in the ADA and these guidelines than in
Paragraph (3) requires all objects that
UFAS. UFAS uses the term in the context of
protrude from surfaces or posts into
apply.
alterations to describe those "(c)hanges having little
exterior circulation paths (pedestrian
Paragraph (4) clarifies that the
likelihood of being accomplished without removing
guidelines apply to temporary buildings
or altering a load-bearing structural member and/or
passageways from one place to another)
incurring an increased cost of 50% or more of the
to comply with 4.4 (protruding objects).
and structures such as reviewing stands.
value of the element of the building or facility
Paragraph (4) requires ground surfaces
temporary classrooms, bleacher areas,
involved." UFAS 3.5.
along accessible routes and in
2302
Federal Register 1 Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
accessible spaces to comply with 4.5
is required for each accessible dwelling
and 4:30.6 (mounting location and
(ground and floor surfaces).
unit or sleeping accommodation. Where
height). These technical specifications
Paragraph (5)(a) contains a table
parking is provided for visitors, an
are discussed in more detail under 4.30.
which specifies the minimum number of
additional 2 per oent of the spaces, or at
Accessible parking spaces and
accessible parking spaces complying
least one, must be accessible.
accessible passenger loading zones are
with 4.6 (parking) that are required to be
Paragraph (5)(e) contains scoping
required to be identified with the
provided when parking is provided for
provisions for accessible parking spaces
international symbol of accessibility. If
at facilities providing medical services.
all entrances or all toilet and bathing
employees and visitors. The numbér is
The range of facilities covered by this
facilities are not accessible, then the
the same as specified in UFAS
§ 4.1.1(5){a). Because the location of the
paragraph is broader than medical care
accessible entrances and accessible
accessible parking spaces directly
facilities covered by section 6 (e.g.,
toilet and bathing facilities are required
affects the usability of the facility.
hospitals and nursing homes) and
to be identified with the international
especially in larger parking lots where
includes outpatient facilities. In general,
symbol of accessibility. When all
an accessible entrance may be located a
facilities providing medical services are
entrances or all toilet and bathing
long distance from the accessible
required to comply with the scoping
facilities are accessible, identification
parking spaces, a provision has been
provisions of paragraph (5)(a) except at
by the international symbol of
out-patient facilities, where 10% of the
accessibility is not only unnecessary but
added requiring that the accessible
parking spaces be "as close as
total number of parking spaces provided
may have the undesirable effect of
must be accessible; and at facilities that
making people think that something
practicable to an accessible entrance."
The proposed BCMC scoping provisions
specialize in treatment or services for
"special" has been done. A provision
persons with mobility impairments,
has also been added requiring
for the ANSI A117.1 standard and
Uniform Building Code contain a similar
where 20% of the total number of
directional signage at the approach to an
requirement. The UFAS exception for
parking spaces provided must be
inaccessible entrance to indicate the
parking providing for official
accessible.¹¹
route to the nearest accessible entrance.
government vehicles has not been
Question 6: The Board seeks
4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: New
included in these guidelines because the
comments on whether a higher number
Construction
guidelines address private facilities.
of accessible parking spaces should be
Paragraph (5)(b) requires that at least
required for nonmedical facilities that
This section is taken from UFAS
one passenger loading zone comply with
serve individuals with disabilities such
section 4.1.2 and sets out the scoping
4.6.5 (passenger loading zones) when
as vocational rehabilitation facilities.
provisions for the new construction of
passenger loading zones are provided.
Question 7: Paragraph (6) requires
accessible buildings and facilities.
Question 5: Paragraph (5)(c) allows
each public or common use toilet facility
Paragraph (1) requires at least one
or bathing facility provided on a site to
accessible route complying with 4.3
accessible parking spaces for side van
lifts to be used to meet the requirements
comply respectively with 4.22 (toilet
(accessible route) to connect accessible
for accessible parking spaces. Although
rooms) and 4.23 (bathing facilities).
building or facility entrances with all
sections 4.6.3 and 4.6.6 of the guidelines
Paragraph (6) includes an exception
accessible spaces and elements within
based on UFAS section 4.1.1(6) which
include technical specifications for
the building or facility. Interior
accessible van parking spaces (an
provides that where single user portable
accessible routes may include corridors,
adjacent access aisle at least 96 inches
toilet or bating units are clustered at a
floors, ramps, elevators, lifts. and clear
wide and minimum vertical clearance of
location, at least one accessible unit
floor space at fixtures. Paragraph (2)
should be installeu whenever typical
114 inches), neither UFAS nor these
requires all objects that overhang or
inaccessible units are provided. Because
guidelines require such spaces to be
protrude into interior circulation paths
of the increased availability of
provided. As a member of the
(pedestrian passageways from one place
accessible portable toilet and bathing
to another, including walks, hallways.
Regulatory Negotiation Advisory
Committee that assisted the Federal
units, the Board is considering changing
courtyards, stairways, and stair
Highway Administration to develop
the advisory "should" to a mandatory
landings) to comply with 4.4 (protruding
"shall" and seeks comments as to
guidelines for a uniform system for
objects). Paragraph (3) requires ground
whether a mandatory requirement is
and floor surfaces along accessible
handicapped parking, the Board was
made aware that some state and local
appropriate and. if so, how many
routes and in accessible rooms and
parking enforcement agencies had no
accessible portable units should be
spaces to comply with 4.5 (ground and
authority to designate or restrict the use
required in a cluster.
floor surfaces).
of certain accessible parking spaces for
Paragraph (7) specifies which
Paragraph (4) follows UFAS 4.1.2(4)
vans only. Given this situation, the
provisions of 4.30 (signage) apply to
and requires stairs between levels not
Board seeks comments on whether these
exterior signs. All signs are required to
connected by an elevator to comply with
guidelines should include scoping
comply with 4.30.2 (character
the technical specifications for
provisions for accessible van parking
proportion); 4.30.3 (character height and
accessible stairs found at 4.9.
letter spacing): and 4.30.5 (finish and
spaces. If so, what should be the
Question 8: Although stairs are never
required minimum number of accessible
contrast). Signs identifying buildings
part of an accessible route because they
and facilities, and permanent
van parking spaces in a lot? Should
cannot be used by individuals who use
identification of rooms or spaces (e.g.,
accessible van parking spaces be
wheelchairs, they are usable (and
provided in addition to the number of
toilet facilities) are also required to
sometimes more usable than ramps) by
accessible parking spaces required by
comply with 4.30.4 (raised and brailled
many people with mobility impairments.
characters and pictorial symbol signs)
paragraph (5)(a) or should they be a
The technical specifications for
percentage of those spaces?
accessible stairs, including those for
Paragraph (5)(d) concerns accessible
11 UFAS section 4.1.1(5)(e)(iii) uses the term
handrails and nosings, are extremely
"spinal cord injury facilities." These guidelines use
parking spaces at transient dodging.
important for many people, especially
the more encompassing term "facilities that
Where parking is provided for all
specialize in treatment or services for persons with
those who use crutches, braces or
occupants, one accessible parking space
mobility impairments."
prostheses, or who may rely on
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2303
handrails to maintain balance. Since
Justice regulations will define the terms
proposed BCMC scoping provisions for
there are instances where people must
"shopping center," "shopping mall," and
the ANSI A117.1 standard prohibit the
use stairs such as in emergency
"professional office of a health care
installation of platform lifts as part of a
evacuation or elevator outages, the
provider."
required accessible route in new
Board seeks comment on the
Paragraph (5) incorporates language
construction. The Board seeks
appropriateness of requiring all stairs in
from the legislative history that the
comments regarding platform lifts.
new construction to comply with the
elevator exception "does not obviate or
Should they be prohibited altogether in
technical specifications for accessible
limit in any way the obligation to
new construction? Should they be
stairs.
comply with the other accessibility
allowed only in alterations where no
Paragraph (5) requires one passenger
requirements established" in section
other accessible means of vertical
elevator complying with 4.10 (elevators)
4.13 for new construction. H. Rept. 101-
access can be provided? If allowed,
to-serve each level in multi-story
485, pt. 2, at 114. For instance, if a two
should the requirement that they have
buildings and facilities, including
story facility is not required to have an
the capability to be operated
mezzanines, unless the elevator
elevator, the second story would
independently be retained? Should
exception applies. If more than one
nonetheless have to be accessible,
platform lifts be prohibited only when
elevator is provided, each elevator is
except for elevator access. Some
they interrupt an accessible means of
required to comply with 4.10. The
individuals who are mobility impaired
egress? Where lifts are used in an
elevator exception is based on section
can reach the second floor by stairs with
outdoor environment; what has been the
303(b) of the ADA and exempts facilities
the aid of crutches. An individual might
experience with maintenance and
that are less than three stories or have
work on the second floor and keep a
vandalism?
less than 3,000 square feet per story
wheelchair in the office for getting
Paragraph (6) requires that where
from the elevator requirement unless the
around on the second floor. The second
operable windows are provided, they
building is a shopping center, a shopping
floor must also be accessible to persons
must comply with 4.12 (windows). This
mall, the professional office of a health
with vision or hearing impairments.
provision is added to be consistent with
care provider, or another type of facility
Because the ground floor must be
MGRAD. 36 C.F.R. 1190:31(j).
determined by the Attorney General to
accessible, there is marginal cost
Paragraphs (7) (a) through (d)
require the installation of an elevator
entailed in making the second floor,
specifies those doors which must
based on the usage of the facility.
with the same structure and generally
comply with the technical specifications
Section 3.5 of the guidelines defines
the same floor plan, accessible.
for accessible doors found at 4.13.
several terms related to elevators. A
Paragraph (5) further provides with
Paragraph (7)(a) requires at least one
"story" is defined as that portion of a
respect to the elevator exception that if
door at each accessible entrance to a
building included between the upper
toilet or bathing facilities are provided
building or facility to comply with 4.13.
surface of a floor and the upper surface
on a level not served by an elevator,
Paragraph (7)(b) requires at least one
of the floor or roof next above. If such
toilet or bathing facilities must also be
door at each accessible space within a
portion of a building does not include
provided on the accessible ground floor.
building or facility to comply with 4.13.
occupiable space, it is not considered a
For instance, a newly contructed two
Paragraph (7)(c) requires each door that
story for purposes of these guidelines.
story movie theater may not locate
is an element of an accessible route to
"Occupiable" space is defined as a room
restrooms only on the second story that
comply with 4.13. Paragraph (7)(d)
or enclosed space designed for human
is not served by an elevator but must
requires each door that is provided as
occupancy in which individuals
locate restrooms on the accessible
part of an accessible means of egress
congregate for amusement, educational
ground floor.
required by 4.3.10 (egress) to comply
or similar purposes, or in which
Question 9: Paragraph (5) also
with 4.13.
occupants are engaged at labor; and
incorporates language from the
Paragraph (8) restates the
which is equipped with means of egress.
legislative history that if a facility which
requirements of UFAS section 4.1.2(8)
light, and ventilation. Basements or
is exempt from the elevator requirement
for entrances and uses the term "ground
attics which do not meet the definition
nonetheless has an elevator installed,
floor" instead of "grade floor". At least
of occupiable space, are not considered
then the elevator must meet the
one principal entrance at each ground
a story. There may be more than one
requirements of an accessible elevator.
floor level to a building or facility is
floor level within a story as in- the case
H. Rept. No. 101-485 pt. 2, at 114. A
required to comply with 4.14 (entrances).
of a mezzanine which is defined as that
provision has been added that such an
As defined in section 3.5, an "entrance"
portion of a story which is an
elevator must also serve each level in
includes the approach walk, the vertical
intermediate floor level placed within a
the building. The Board seeks comment
access leading to the entrance platform,
story and having occupiable space
on the appropriateness of this provision.
the entrance- platform itself, vestibules if
above and below its floor. Although a
Paragraph (5) also exempts elevator
provided, the entry door(s) or gate(s),
mezzanine is not considered a story for
pits, elevator penthouses, mechanical
and the hardware on the entry door(s) or
purposes of determining whether the
rooms, and piping or equipment
gate(s): The definition of an "entrance"
elevator exception applies, if a facility is
catwalks from the elevator requirement.
specifies that a "principal entrance" is
required to have an elevator. then the
Question 10: In addition, paragraph (5)
one through which a significant number
elevator must serve each level, including
incorporates an exception from UFAS
of people enter a building or facility. A
the mezzanine. Thus, a two story motel
section 4.1.2(5) which allows accessible
"ground floor" is defined as any
with a mezzanine level in the lobby may
ramps complying with 4.8 (ramps) or if
occupiable floor less than one story
come under the elevator exception.
no other alternative is feasible,
above or below grade with direct access
However, if a two story medical arts
accessible platform lifts complying with
to-grade. A building or facility always
building has a mezzanine level. the
4.11 (platform lifts) and other applicable
has at least one ground floor and may
facility falls outside the elevator
local regulations to be used in lieu of an
have more than one ground floor, for
exception, and an elevator would have
elevator. The reference to local
example, as where a split level- entrance
to serve the first and second stories and
regulations was added because a
has been provided or where a building is
the mezzanine level. The Department of
number of building codes and the
built into a hillside.
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Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
When entrances normally serve
assistance during emergency
with different types or degrees of
transportation facilities, passenger
evacuations. The technical
disabilities).
loading zones, accessible parking
specifications for areas of refuge are
Paragraph (12)(a) states that if fixed
facilities, taxi stands, public streets and
discussed at 4.3.11. The definition of
or built-in storage facilities such as
sidewalks, or accessible interior vertical
"egress" clarifies that an accessible
cabinets, shelves, closets, and drawers
access, then at least one of the
means of egress does not include stairs,
are provided in accessible spaces, at
entrances serving each of those
steps, or escalators, but than an area of
least one of each type provided shall
functions must be accessible. For
refuge or evacuation elevators may be
contain storage space complying with
instance, if entrance A connects directly
included as part of an accessible means
4.25 (storage). Additional storage may
with and normally services an
of egress. A provision has also been
be provided outside the maximum high
accessible parking garage and entrance
added to paragraph (9) to require that,
reach (54 inches) and minimum low
B normally services the public street,
when used as part of an accessible
reach (9 inches) shown in Figure 38. This
then each entrance would have to be
means of egress, areas of refuge are to
provision does not require shelves and
accessible. However, if entrance A
be provided in a number equal to that
display units to be entirely within these
normally services both the accessible
for required exits under local code
reach ranges so there is no change
parking garage and the public street,
provisions. For instance. if a multi-story
required in supermarket fixed shelving
paragraph (8) is satisfied by making
building is required to have two exits
design or in the design of fixed clothing
entrance A accessible. Paragraph (8)
but provides three exits, only two areas
racks. With respect to employee work
further states that it is preferable to
of refuge must be provided on each
stations, as discussed under section
make all or most entrances accessible
floor. Local building codes establish the
4.1.1(3), the guidelines do not require
because entrances also serve as a
number of required exits based on the
those areas to be equipped with
means of egress in emergencies whose
occupant load (number of occupants
accessible shelves. However,
proximity to all parts of buildings and
that the building is designed for). The
consideration should be given to placing
facilities is essential.
proposed BCMC scoping provisions for
shelves in employee work stations at a
Question 11: The legislative history
ANSI A117.1 and the Uniform Building
convenient height for accessibility or
suggests a different requirement where a
Code tie the number of areas of refuge
installing commercially available
building has a split level entrance or is
back to the occupant load. To avoid
shelving that is adjustable so that
built into a hillside. Specifically, the
reasonable accommodations can be
possible conflict or discrepancy with
Conference Report states that
made in the future.
other codes, paragraph (9) relates the
"[a]ccessibility requirements shall not
required number of areas of refuge to
Paragraph (12)(b) requires shelves or
be evaded by constructing facilities in
the required number of exits rather than
display units allowing self-service by
such a way that no story constitutes a
'ground floor,' for example, by
to the occupant load.
customers in mercantile occupancies to
be located on an accessible route so that
constructing a building whose main
Question 12: Paragraph (10) comes
individuals with mobility impairments
entrances leads only to stairways or
from UFAS section 4.1.2(9) and requires
can approach them in a manner
escalators that connect with upper or
"approximately" 50 percent of drinking
consistent with those enjoyed by other
lower floors; at least one accessible
fountains or water coolers provided on
members of the general public.
ground story must be provided." H.
each floor to comply with 4.15 (drinking
Paragraph (13) states that controls and
Rept. 101-596, at 77. The Board seeks
fountains) and to be on an accessible
operating mechanisms in accessible
comments on whether the requirements
route. The Board is considering requiring
spaces, along accessible routes, or as
should be as proposed in the paragraph
"at least" 50 percent to be accessible in
parts of accessible elements (e.g., light
(8) (a building that has split level
order to make the provision more easily
switches and dispenser controls) must
entrance or is built into a hillside would
enforced. Because of the low mounting
comply with 4.27 (controls and operating
be considered to have more than one
height of accessible drinking fountains,
mechanisms).
ground floor and at least one accessible
many people find "inaccessible"
Paragraph (14) provides that if
entrance must be provided at each
drinking fountains easier to use since
emergency warning systems are
ground floor level) or as suggested in the
they are usually mounted at a greater
provided, they must include both
legislative history (at least one
height from the floor; and therefore, it
audible alarms and visual alarms
accessible ground story must be
would not be appropriate to require 100
complying with 4.28 (alarms). The
provided). Alternatively, the Board
percent accessible fountains. The Board
technical specifications for alarms are
seeks comments on whether the
seeks comment on whether a specific
discussed under 4.28. The alarm
guidelines should require all entrances
percentage of accessible drinking
requirements for sleeping
to every building to be accessible.
fountains should be required and, if so,
accommodations are discussed under
Paragraph (9) concerns egress and
whether at least 50 percent would be an
9.3. Paragraph (14) allows emergency
states that, in multiple-story buildings
appropriate number?
warning systems in health care facilities
and facilities where at-grade egress from
Paragraph (11) requires each public
to be modified to suit standard health
each floor is impossible, either approved
and common use toilet facility and
care alarm design practice.
fire and smoke partitions that create
bathing facility to comply respectively
Paragraph (15) requires detectable
horizontal exits must be provided within
with 4.22 (toilet rooms) and 4.23 (bathing
warnings to be provided at hazardous
each story, or areas of refuge complying
facilities) and to be on an accessible
conditions as specified in 4.29
with 4.3.11 (areas of refuge) and
route. Other toilet rooms, such as a
(detectable warnings). A "detectable
approved by agencies having authority
private restroom which is part of an
warning" is defined in section 3.5 as a
for safety must be provided within each
executive's office and is not intended for
standardized surface feature built in or
floor. Section 3.5 defines an "area of
use by other employees, must be
applied to walking surfaces or other
refuge" as an area, which has direct
adaptable (i.e., capable of being altered
elements to warn visually impaired
access to an exit stairway, where people
so as to accommodate the needs of
people of hazards on a circulation path.
who are unable to use stairs may remain
individuals with or without disabilities
This requirement is discussed in more
safely to await further instructions or
or to accommodate the needs of persons
detail under 4.29.
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2395
Paragraph (16). specifies which
comply with 4.31 (telephones) when
display devices or telecommunication
provisions of 4.30 (signage) apply to
public pay telephones, public closed
devices for the deaf (TDD) for
interior signs to make them accessible to
circuit telephones, or other public
individuals who cannot use voice
individuals with vision impairments. All
telephones are provided. The number is
telephones. Section 3.5 defines a "TDD"
signs are required to comply with 4.30.2
the same as specified in UFAS section
as a device that employs graphic (i.e.,
(character proportion): 4.30.3 (character
4.1.2(17)(a). Section 3.5 defines a "closed
written) communications through the
height and letter spacing); 4.30.5 (finish
circuit telephone" as a telephone with
transmission of coded signals across the
and contrast); and 4.30.8 (illumination
dedicated line(s) such as a house phone,
standard telephone network. Title IV of
levels). Signs that provide permanent
courtesy phone, or phone that must be
the ADA requires common carriers to
identification of rooms and spaces such
used to gain entrance to a facility. The
provide telecommunications relay
as toilet facilities (e.g., men/women).
term has been added to clarify that the
services, which will employ a third party
room numbers, and exits are also
provision applies to all types of public
having access to both a TDD and voice
required to comply with 4.30.4 (raised
telephones.
telephone to facilitate communication
and brailled characters and pictorial
Paragraph (17)(b) specifies the number
between TDD users and others who use
symbol signs) and 4.30:6 (mounting
of telephones required to be equipped
voice telephones only. Individuals with
location and height). Signs providing
with a volume control for persons with
severe hearing or other communication
temporary information about rooms and
hearing impairments. All telephones
impairments will require a TDD to
spaces such as the current occupant's
required to be accessible by the table in
access this system or to call others who
name do not have to comply with 4.30.4
paragraph (17)(a) must be equipped with
use TDDs. Few individuals carry a
(raised and brailled characters and
volume controls. In addition, 25 percent
portable TDD. Even then, devices which
pictorial symbol signs). These technical
of each type of telephone (public pay
are the most portable often are the most
specifications are discussed in more
telephones, public closed circuit
difficult to operate by individuals with
detail under 4.30.
telephones, and other public telephones)
mobility and communication
Question 13: The Board seeks
must also be equipped with a volume
impairments who lack coordination or
information regarding additional types
control and dispersed throughout the
manual dexterity. TDD telephones (a
of signage that are necessary for
facility. The installation of additional
single, vandal resistant, integrated unit)
individuals with vision impairments to
volume control equipped telephones is
are commercially available. Nothing in
participate in integrated environments
encouraged. Telephones equipped with
this provision prohibits the installation
and that should comply with the
a volume control are to be identified by
of a simple TDD adjacent to or within
technical specifications for raised and
a sign containing a depiction of a
the telephone enclosure as long as it is
brailled characters (4.30.4); and
telephone handset with radiating sound
usable.
mounting location and height (4.30.6).
waves (4.30.7).
Question 15: Paragraph (17)(c)
The Board is considering requiring
The Board believes that the proposed
requires a building or facility that has a
informational and directional signage to
scoping provisions in paragraph 17(b)
total of six or more public pay
comply with those technical
are consistent with the ADA mandate to
telephones to provide at least one public
specifications, particularly where it may
improve communication accessibility.
pay telephone equipped with a TDD.
affect the usability of the building or
Since 1987, the State of Connecticut has
This number would exclude many
facility such as signage indicating the
required that 25 percent of coin and
smaller buildings and facilities. The
location of an information desk,
coinless public telephones be equipped
Board seeks comment on the
auditorium or gymnasium; specifying
with a volume control. The Bell Atlantic
appropriateness of using the total
rules of conduct, or alerting the public to
Company, serving Delaware. Maryland,
number of public pay telephones in a
certain hazards. In areas where
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia,
building or facility as the basis for the
overhead signage is typically provided
West Virginia, and Washington, DC,
TDD scoping provisions and whether six
such as conference centers and bus
initiated a voluntary program in 1989 to
public pay telephones should be the
stations, how can information on these
equip significant numbers of new and
point at which to require a TDD. As an
signs be made accessible to persons
existing public telephones with
alternative, should the Board specify
who use raised and brailled characters?
amplification devices. Some facilities,
scoping according to occupancy type as
Section 4.30.6 requires signs to be
such as the U.S. Air terminal at the
is done in the State of Michigan?
mounted between 54 and 66 inches, and
Washington National Airport, equip all
Michigan requires TDDs to be installed
signs that provide permanent
public pay telephones with a volume
whenever public telephones are
identification of rooms and spaces must
control.
installed at airports having regularly
be installed on the wall adjacent to the
Question 14: Some manufacturers
scheduled flights, bus and train depots,
latch side of the door. In large open
provide a range of up to 18-decibels
hospitals, clinics, health care centers,
areas such as an indoor atrium there
(units used to compare intensities of
senior citizen complexes, convention
may be no wall or doorway in proximity
sound) above normal; others provide a
centers, hotels with convention centers,
to overhead signage. 'Are there other
more limited range (usually 12 decibels).
and covered malls. The Board also seeks
technologies such as audible signs that
The Board seeks comments on what
more information regarding the need for
may be more usable than requiring
decibel range should be specified for
public TDDs in general and at specific
signage to comply with the technical
volume controls on telephones. The
types of facilities. Do the general public
specifications for raised and brailled
Board is also interested in obtaining
or individuals with communication
characters (4.30.4), and mounting
information on the costs and benefits
impairments have a greater need for
location and height (4.30.6)? The Board
associated with various systems.
telecommunications: access in certain
seeks information regarding the benefits
Commenters are asked to address the
facilities such as airports, bus stations,
and costs of these requirements and
cost of a new telephone with a volume
conference centers, hospitals?
alternative technologies.
control as compared to a new telephone
Question 16: Paragraph (18) states that
Paragraph (17)(a) contains a table
without such a feature.
if fixed or built-in seating or tables are
which specifies the number of
Paragraph 17(c). adds scoping
provided in accessible spaces, then at
accessible telephones required to
provisions for telecommunication
least 5 percent, but always at least one,
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Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
of the fixed or built-in seating spaces or
that all individuals with hearing
impairments can benefit from the
tables must comply with 4.32 (seating,
impairments use a T-switch on a hearing
provision of an assistive listening
tables, and work surfaces). An
aid to interact with a transmitter. Thus,
system at some of these facilities. The
accessible route must lead to and
it is often believed that a transmitter
Board seeks information regarding the
through such fixed or built-in seating,
alone is sufficient. This is obviously
extent and scope of this problem; the
tables or work surfaces. See, section 5.1
untrue for those individuals with hearing
need for assistive listening systems;
for requirements for fixed tables in
impairments who do not or cannot use
ways in which they could be provided;
restaurants and cafeterias. The Board
hearing aids. Less obvious is the fact
and costs. If services are provided at
seeks comments on whether the five
that hearing aids are not required to be
several points along a counter such as
percent figure is adequate or whether a
sold with a T-switch. Furthermore, not
teller windows at a bank should scoping
lower or higher percent should be
all assistive listening systems are
provisions be based on a percentage of
specified?
compatible with hearing aids. Therefore,
the total number, or a minimum of one?
Paragraph (19)(a) contains a table
a requirement for a specific number of
Paragraph (20) adds a new&scoping
specifying the number of wheelchair
assistive listening devices or receivers is
provision for automated teller machine's
seating spaces required to be provided
essential for those who need such
and requires that where such machines
in places of assembly. The number is the
devices.
are provided, at least one machine must
same as specified in UFAS section
The Bureau of the Census has
comply with 4.34 (automated teller
4.1.2(18)(a).
reported that there are 7,213,000
machines). Paragraph (20) also includes
Paragraph (19)(b) contains scoping
individuals who have difficulty hearing
an exception which states that drive-up-
provisions for assistive listening
what is said in a normal conversation
only automated teller machines are not
systems in indoor assembly areas where
with another person. Bureau of Census,
audible communications are integral to
required to comply with 4.34.2 (controls)
Disability Functional Limitation and
the use of the space such as concert
and 4.34.3 (clearance and reach range).
Insurance Coverage: 1984-85. This
halls, theaters, meeting rooms, or
The technical specifications for
number does not include those who
banquet rooms in restaurants where
automated teller machines are discussed
cannot hear at all. At the time the study
at 4.34.
community service clubs or others may
was conducted, this number represented
meet. The requirement for a
slightly more than 4 per cent of the total
4.1.4 Reserve
permanently installed assistive listening
population aged 15 and older. This is a
4.1.5 Accessible Buildings: Additions
system in such an assembly area is
conservative number. There are other
triggered by any of the following: (1) If it
studies which indicate that a greater
This section states that each addition
accommodates fifty or more people; (2)
percentage of individuals have a hearing
to an existing building or facility shall
if an audio amplification system is
impairment such as the National Center
be regarded as an alteration and shall
provided; or (3) if it is used regularly as
for Health Statistics which found a 7.9
comply with the scoping provisions for
a meeting or conference room.
per cent rate. National Health Interview
new construction, as well as alterations;
UFAS section 4.1.2(18)(b) allows for
Survey, 1979-80. New York State census
the applicable technical specifications in
the provision of portable listening
estimates the population of persons with
sections 4.2 through 4.34; and special
systems in certain assembly areas
hearing impairments at 9 per cent of the
application sections 5 through 9. Section
where there is no audio amplification
population. Section 1102.6(c) of the New
3.5 defines an "addition" as an
system. Paragraph 19(b) requires either
York State Uniform Fire Prevention and
expansion, extension, or increase in the
a permanently installed listening system
Building Code requires the minimum
gross floor area of a building or facility.
or wiring for a portable system where
number of assistive listening devices or
the assembly area does not trigger the
4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations
receivers to be provided to be equal to 9
requirement that a permanently-
per cent of the total number of seats for
Paragraph (1) is based on UFAS
installed system be provided. A
buildings with seating of up to 1,000
section 4.1.6(1) and sets out general
requirement has also been added for
seats.
requirements for alterations. An
signage notifying patrons of the
Question 17: The Board seeks
"alteration", as defined in section 3.5 of
availability of a system.
information regarding the use of
the guidelines, means any change to a
Paragraph (19)(b) provides greater
permanently installed versus portable
building or facility that affects or could
guidance that UFAS regarding the
assistive listening systems. Specifically.
affect the usability of the building or
requirements for assistive listening
in which types of assembly areas would
facility or any part thereof. Alterations
devices or receivers. UFAS section
one type of system be preferable to the
include, but are not limited to,
4.1.2(18)(b) requires that a reasonable
other? For example, (1) should areas
remodeling, renovations, rehabilitation,
number of people with hearing
with fixed seating such as movie
reconstruction, historic restoration,
impairments be assisted. Paragraph
theaters or play houses have permanent
changes or rearrangement of the
(19)(b) requires assistive listening
systems; and (2) should shopping malls
structural parts or elements of a building
devices or receivers equal to 4 percent
where temporary seating may be
or facility, changes or rearrangement in
of the total number of seats, but in no
provided for special events have wiring
the plan configuration of walls and
case less than two, which would provide
for portable systems? Additionally, the
partitions, and extraordinary repair.
measurable guidance. This provision is
Board seeks information regarding
Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting
important due to a misunderstanding of
which types of systems (infra-red.
or wallpapering, or changes to
the need for assistive listening devices
induction loop. and FM radio) may work
mechanical or electrical systems are not
to enable those with hearing
best in a given environment.
considered to be alterations unless they
impairments to use assistive listening
Question 18: An additional
affect the usability of the building or
systems. Assistive listening systems, in
communication barrier is imposed at
facility.
constrast to audio amplification
sales and service counters, teller
Paragraph (1)(a) is a new provision
systems, are designed to transmit sound
windows, box offices, and information
and states that no alteration may be
as directly as possible to a receiver/
kiosks where a physical barrier
undertaken which decreases or has the
transducer used in the ear of the
separates service personnel and
effect of decreasing accessibility or
listener. A common misunderstanding is
customers. Persons with certain hearing
usability of a building or facility. The
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2307
Board has seen cases where existing
for greater accessibility than would be
As in the case of the exception for
facilities that incorporated accessibility
required for new construction. For
structural impracticability in new
features have been altered and the
example, if the elevators and stairs in a
construction, the technically infeasible
accessible features have been removed
building are being altered and the
exception for alterations is not to be
with the result that the overall
elevators are made accessible, then no
viewed as an all-or-nothing proposition.
accessibility of the facility has been
accessibility modifications are required
If it is technically infeasible to comply
decreased. The Board believes that this
to the stairs connecting levels now
with some of the requirements for
is contrary to the purposes of the ADA.
connected by the accessible elevators
alternations, but technically feasible to
Even when an existing facility exceeds
since the scoping provisions for new
comply with others, then the other
the minimum scoping provisions of these
construction require only stairs
requirements must be met. Any altered
guidelines, alterations should not result
connecting levels that are not connected
feature of the facility or portion of the
in a decrease in the level of
by an elevator to comply with 4.9
facility that can be made accessible,
accessibility. For example, if an existing
(stairs). However, if modifications to the
must be made accessible to the
facility has two entrances, each of
stairs are required by a local code to
maximum extent feasible.
which is accessible by means of a ramp
correct unsafe conditions, then the
Paragraph (1)(h) incorporates the
complying with 4.8 (ramps), it would not
modifications must be done in
exception from section 303(b) of the
be permissible to replace one of the
accordance with these guidelines unless
ADA which does not require the
ramps with steps even though section
technically infeasible (this term is
installation of an elevator in newly
4.1.3(8) provides that at least one
discussed under paragraph (1)(g)).
constructed or altered facilities that are
principal entrance at ground level must
Paragraph (1)(f) concerns alterations
less than three stories or have less than
be accessible.
limited solely to electrical, mechanical,
3,000 square feet per story unless the
Paragraph (1)(b) sets out the general
or plumbing systems, or to asbestos
building is a shopping center, a shopping
requirement that if an existing element.
removal and is further discussed in a
mall, the professional office of a health
space, or common area is altered, then
note to paragraph (2).
care provider, or another type of facility
each such altered element, space, or
Paragraph (1)(g) contains an exception
or determined by the Attorney General.
common area must comply with the
if it is "technically infeasible" to fully
This exception is discussed in detail
applicable scoping provision for new
comply with the accessibility
under the new construction
construction. The key point is whether
requirements for alterations. Section
requirements. See, section 4.1.3(5).
the alteration presents an opportunity to
303(a)(2) of the ADA contemplates such
Paragraph (2) restates the requirement
make the element, space, or common
an exception when it states that
of section 303(a)(2) of the ADA with
area being worked on accessible. For
alterations are to be made in an
respect to alterations that affect or could
example, if a conference center plans to
accessible manner "to the maximum
affect the usability of or access to an
replace its audioamplification system,
extent feasible." The legislative history
area of the facility containing a primary
the facility would have to comply with
explains the phrase "to the maximum
function. In the case of such alterations,
section 4.1.3(19)(b) of the guidelines and
extent feasible" was used to allow for
the path of travel to the altered area and
install a permanent assistive listening
the occasional case in which the nature
the restrooms, telephones, and drinking
system. If a parking garage restripes its
of an existing facility is such as to make
fountains serving the altered areas must
parking spaces and does not have the
it virtually impossible to renovate the
be made accessible to the extent that
number of accessible parking spaces
building in a manner that results in its
these additional accessibility features
required by 4.1.2(5)(a), the facility would
being fully accessible. H. Rept. 101-485,
are not disproportionate to the overall
have to provide the required number of
pt. 2. at 114. The term "technically
alterations in terms of cost and scope,
such spaces.
infeasible" is defined in section 3.5 of
as determined under criteria established
Paragraph (1)(c) provides that if an
the guidelines as meaning that an
escalator or stair is planned or installed
by the Attorney General. 18 The
alteration has little likelihood of being
where none existed previously and
Department of Justice regulations will
accomplished in an accessible manner
major structural modifications are
address the implementation of this
because existing structural conditions
necessary for such installation, then a
provision.
would'require removing or altering a
means of accessible vertical access must
Paragraph (3) contains special
load-bearing member or because site
be provided that complies with 4.7 (curb
technical provisions for alterations to
constraints prohibit modification or
ramps). 4.8 (ramps), 4.10 (elevators). or
existing buildings and facilities where it
addition of elements, spaces or features
4.11 (platform lifts). UFAS section
is technically infeasible to comply with
necessary to provide accessibility. 12
4.1.6(1)(b) contains a similar
certain provisions of 4.2 through 4.34 or
requirement which is derived from
where other specified conditions
MGRAD. 36 CFR 1190.33(a)(3).
12 UFAS uses the term "structurally
prevent compliance. For example,
impracticable" to describe alterations which have
Paragraph (1)(d) states that if
paragraph (3)(a) allows slightly steeper
little likelihood of being accomplished in an
alterations of single elements, when
accessible manner without removing load-bearing
slopes for short curb ramps and interior
considered together, amount to an
structural member and/or incurring an increased
or exterior ramps to be constructed on
alteration of a room or space in a
cost of 50 percent or more of the value of the
existing sites or in existing buildings or
building or facility, then the entire room
element of the building or facility involved. Section
facilities where space limitations
303(a)(1) of the ADA and these guidelines use the
or space must be made accessible. For
term "structurally impracticable" to describe an
prohibit compliance with 4.8.2 which
example, if renovations are planned to a
exception in new construction. See. section 4.1.1(5)
requires a maximum slope of 1:12 in new
restroom, including new plumbing,
of these guidelines and related discussion. Thus,
construction. Paragraph (3)(e)(i) permits
water closets, toilet stalls, and
these guidelines use the term "technically
the installation of at least one unisex
infeasible" to describe the exception for alterations.
lavatories, then the entire restroom,
A cost factor is not included in the definition of
including the doorway, would have to
"technically infeasible" because section 303(a)(2) of
13 Paragraph (1)(f) provides that this requirement
comply with the technical specifications
the ADA addresses the issue of cost in the context
does not apply if the alteration work is limited
for accessible restrooms (4.22).
of alterations that affect or could affect usability of
solely to the electrical, mechanical, or plumbing
or access to an area of the facility containing a
Paragraph 1(e) clarifies that this
system or to asbestos removal. and does not involve
primary function. See section 4.1.6(2) of these
the alteration of any elements or spaces required to
section does not impose a requirement
guidelines and related discussion.
be accessible under these guidelines.
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Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 Proposed Rules
toilet per floor located in the same area
to whether the requirements for
entrance indicating the location of the
as existing toilet facilities where it is
accessible routes (exterior and interior),
accessible entrance. The intent of the
technically infeasible to modify existing
ramps, entrances, toilets, parking and
provision is to provide convenient and
toilet facilities to comply with 4.22 (toilet
displays and signage would threaten or
independent access to individuals with
rooms) and 4.23 (bathrooms, bathing
destroy the historic significance of the
disabilities in a manner consistent with
facilities, and shower rooms). Each
building or facility. If the Advisory
that provided other members of the
unisex toilet must contain one water
Council makes a written determination
public. The Board realizes, however,
closet complying with 4.16 (water
that the accessibility requirements for
that this requirement may result in
closets) and one lavatory complying
any of these features would threaten or
security problems. The Board is
with 4.19 (lavatories and mirrors), and
Aestroy the historic significance of the
considering changing this provision to
the door must have a privacy latch. The
building or facility, the alternative
allow security needs to be addressed as
other special technical provisions relate
minimum requirements listed in
long as convenience and independent
to extension of handrails at stairs
paragraphs (2) (a) through (h) of the
access is facilitated at the other
(paragraph (3)(b)): automatic door
guidelines may be used for that feature.
entrance. The Board seeks comments
reopening devices in elevators
Question 19: With regard to those
regarding this issue.
(paragraph (3)(c)fi)); inside car
buildings and facilities designated as
4.2 through 4.34 Technical
dimensions in elevators (paragraph
historic under State or local law, section
Specifications
(3)(c)(ii)): clear opening width
504(c) of the ADA requires that the
requirements for doors (paragraph
guidelines contain procedures
The following sections of the 1980
(3)(d)(i)); thresholds at doors (paragraph
equivalent to those established for
version of the ANSI A117.1 standard are
(3)(d)(ii}); accessible seating and
buildings and facilities that are eligible
taken from UFAS and reprinted in the
companion seating in assembly areas
for listing in the National Register of
guidelines: 14
(paragraph (3){g)(i)): and performing
Historic Places. Those States and local
4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges
areas in assembly areas (paragraph
governments that have their historic
4.3 Accessible Route
(3)(g)(ii)). Paragraph (f) adds provisions
preservation programs certified by the
4.4 Protruding Objects
for directional signage indicating the
Secretary of the Interior for funding
4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces
nearest accessible entrances and toilet
purposes pursuant to the National
4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones
or bathing facilities when an entrance
Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as
4.7 Curb Ramps
other than a principal entrance is made
amended, are required to establish
4.8 Ramps
accessible and when inaccessible toilet
4.9 Stairs
qualified State historic preservation
or bathing facilities are allowed to
4.10 Elevators
review boards and local historic review
remain in an existing building or facility.
4.11 Platform Lifts
commissions. 16 U.S.C. 470a. The Board
4.12 Windows
4.1.7 Accessible Buildings: Historic
seeks comments on the appropriateness
4.13 Doors
Preservation
of using those State boards and local
4.14 Entrances
commissions, where they exist, for
This section implements section 504(c)
4.15 Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers
purposes of making a written
4.16 Water Closets
of the ADA which requires that the
determination whether the requirements
4.17 Toilet Stalls
guidelines include procedures and
for accessible features would threaten
4.18 Urinals
requirements for alterations that will
or destroy the historic significance of
4.19 Lavatories and Mirrors
threaten or destroy the historic
significance of qualified historic
properties designated as historic under
4.20 Bathtubs
4.21 Shower Stalls
buildings and facilities as defined in
their State or local program. The Board
4.22 Toilet Rooms
also seeks comments on what
UFAS section 4.1.7(1)(a). Paragraph
4.23 Bathrooms. Bathing Facilities, and
(1)(a) of the guidelines incorporates
procedures should be used for State and
Shower Rooms
UFAS section 4.1.7(1){a) and defines
local governments whose historic
4.24 Sinks
qualified historic buildings or facilities
preservation programs are not certified
4.25 Storage
as those buildings and facilities that are
by the Secretary of Interior.
4.26 Handrails, Crab Bars. Tub and Shower
eligible for listing in the National
Question 20: Paragraphs (2) (a)
Seats
Register of Historic Places, or such
through (e) of the guidelines incorporate
4.27 Controls and Operating Mechanisms
properties designated as historic under a
UFAS section 4.1.7(2) and provide
4.28 Alarms
4.29 Detectable Warnings
State or local law.
alternative minimum requirements for
4.30 Signage
Section 504(c) of the ADA further
accessible routes, entrances, toilets, and
4.31 Telephones
requires that with respect to alterations
displays and signage that may be used
4.32 Seating. Tables, and Work Spaces
of buildings and facilities that are
when the Advisory Council determines
4.33 Assembly Areas
eligible for listing in the National
that complying with a specific
accessibility requirement would
UFAS contains modifications and
Register of Historic Places, the
threaten or destroy the historic
additions to the ANSI A117.1 standard.
guidelines shall, at a minimum, maintain
the procedures and requirements
significance of the building or facility.
Unless otherwise discussed below, the
established in UFAS sections 4.1.7 (1)
For instance, paragraph (2)(b) provides
modifications and additions contained
that if the Advisory Council determines
in UFAS are incorporated in these
and (2). Paragraphs (1) (a), (b), and (c) of
that making a principal entrance of a
guidelines and noted by italics.
the guidelines incorporates UFAS
section 4.1.7(1) and provides for
facility accessible would threaten or
The ANSI A117.1 standard has been
comments to be obtained from the
destroy the historic significance of the
generally accepted by the private sector.
Advisory Council on Historic
building and no other entrances used by
Preservation (Advisory Council) when
the public can comply with 4.14
14 The ANSI A117.1 standard is reprinted with
required by section 106 of the National
(entrances). then an entrance not used
permission from the American National Standards
Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as
by the public but "open (unlocked)" may
Institute. Copies of the ANSI A117.1 standard may
be purchased from-the American National
amended, before altering a qualified
be made accessible. Directional signage
Standards Institute at 1430 Broadway, New York.
historic building or facility with respect
must be provided at the inaccessible
N.Y. 10018.
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2309
The appendix to the guidelines contains
accessible building entrance they serve.
provisions for areas of refuge as part of
additional information about some of
The Board recognizes that there is some
a horizontal exit. A horizontal exit is an
the technical specifications. Those
concern among persons with disabilities
option utilized in certain cases to satisfy
section numbers are marked with an
regarding the issue of travel distances
partially the requirement for multiple
asterisk in the guidelines. After the
between points on an accessible route,
exits from a building, and is not a
Department of Justice establishes
especially lengthy travel distances
"required" type of exit. Very few
accessibility standards based on these
between accessible parking spaces and
existing buildings, other than hospitals,
guidelines, the Board intends to make
accessible building entrances. The more
have horizontal exits or their associated
available manuals explaining the
direct routes are frequently inaccessible.
areas of refuge. As described in the
standards and to provide training and
The Board is considering adding specific
building and life safety codes, areas of
technical assistance.
language to section 4.3 to address this
refuge address the space needs of the
As discussed below, the Board
issue and seeks comment on the
entire building population on the floor
proposes to modify or add provisions to
following options: (1) The accessible
level in question and go far beyond the
the following technical specifications
route shall be the "shortest possible
needs of people with disabilities.
which are also noted by italics: 15
route"; (2) the accessible route shall be
The Board proposes to delete the
4.3.10 Accessible Route: Egress
the "shortest. most direct route
provisions requiring that areas of refuge
4.3.11 Accessible Route: Areas of Refuge
practicable"; or (3) the route of travel for
comply with the requirements of the
4.5.3 Ground and Floor Surfaces: Carpet
persons with disabilities, including an
administrative authority having
4.7.7 Curb Ramps: Detectable Warnings
accessible building entrance and an
jurisdiction and to add a new section
4.9.2 Stairs: Treads and Risers
accessible route, shall, to the maximum
4.3.11 titled "Areas of Refuge" that
4.9.5 Stairs: Detectable Warnings
extent feasible, coincide with the route
would provide technical specifications
4.12 Windows
of travel for the general public.
for such areas.
4.22.3 Toilet Rooms: Clear Floor Space
4.23.3 Bathrooms: Clear Floor Space
4.3 Accessible Route: Ramps and
The report of the Board sponsored
4.28 Alarms
Stairs
research project on egress. the proposed
4.29 Detectable Warnings
BCMC scoping provisions for the ANSI
4.30 Signage
Question 22: An accessible means of
A117.1 standard. and the Uniform
vertical access such as a ramp must be
The Board also proposes to add a
Building Code were considered in
section 4.34 for automated teller
provided if an accessible route has
developing the new section. As defined
machines. Wherever possible. the Board
changes in level. Stairs are not
in section 3.5, an "area of refuge" is an
has attempted to be consistent with the
permitted as part of an accessible route.
area, which has direct access to an exit
planned revisions to the ANSI A117.1
Although many ambulatory persons
stairway, where people who are unable
standard when proposing modifications
with mobility impairments require
to use stairs may remain safely to await
elements of an accessible route such as
or additions to the technical
further instruction or assistance during
a firm. stable. and slip resistant ground
specifications.
emergency evacuation. Section 4.3.11
In addition. the Board is considering
and floor surfaces. they may be unable
requires that each area of refuge have a
to maintain balance where the cross
possible changes, to or seeks information
one-hour minimum fire-resistive
regarding the following sections:
slope of a path exceeds 1:50 or may
separation and direct access to an exit
experience more difficulty negotiating
stairway (if above or below the ground
4.3 Accessible Route: Travel Distance
ramps, than stairs. For example.
4.3 Accessible Route: Ramps and Stairs
floor level). In addition, an area of
individuals with above knee
4.4 Protruding Objects: General
refuge may have access to an egress
4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces: Slip
amputations may not have the ability to
elevator where such elevator is designed
Resistance
flex a prosthetic knee joint while
and constructed as being suitable for
4.8 Ramps: Slip Resistance
walking. Given this information. should
emergency evacuation when operated
4.8.2 Ramps: Slope and Rise
the Board include a requirement for
by trained emergency service personnel.
4.10 Elevators: Handrails
stairs to be provided adjacent to ramps
Each area of refuge is required to
4.17 Toilet Stalls: Width and Grab Bars
when they are part of an accessible
provide a minimum of two wheelchair
4.33 Assembly Areas: Row Spacing and
route?
Lines of Sight
spaces (30 inches by 48 inches each)
The Board also seeks comments
4.3.10 Accessible Route: Egress
which may not be part of, nor encroach
upon, any required exit, corridor, or
regarding adding a new section for
4.3.11 Accessible Route: Area of
landing dimension. A landing in an exit
dressing and fitting rooms.
Refuge
stair which does not contain a standpipe
Those sections that the Board is
Section 4.3.10 provides that accessible
may be used as an area of refuge if the
proposing to modify or add to, or that
routes serving any accessible space or
requirements of the preceding sentence
the Board is considering possible
element shall also serve as a means of
are met. Section 4.3.11 also contains
changes to or seeks information on, are
egress for emergencies or connect to an
provisions for travel to an area of
discussed below.
accessible place of refuge. See, section
refuge; doors: a two-way communication
4.3 Accessible Route: Travel Distance
4.1.3(9) for discussion of related scoping
system with both visible and audible
Question 21: At least one accessible
provisions for accessible means of
signals; and signage.
route must be provided within the
egress and areas of refuge. Neither
UFAS nor the ANSI A117.1 standard
4.4.1 Protruding Objects: General
boundary of the site from public
contain any technical specifications for
Question 23: Section 4.4.1 provides
transportation stops. accessible parking.
and accessible passenger loading zones,
places of refuge, but rather state that
that objects protruding from walls with
and public streets or sidewalks to the
such areas shall comply with the
their leading edges between 27 inches
requirements of the administrative
and 80 inches above the finished floor
authority having jurisdiction.
(e.g., telephones) may protrude no more
15 The proposed changes to sections 4.3.10: 4.5.3:
The model building codes and the Life
than 4 inches into walks, halls,
4.12: 4.22.3: and 4.23.3 relate to modifications and
additions made by UFAS and do not affect the 1980
Safety Code of the National Fire
corridors, passageways, or aisles. The
or 1986 versions of the ANSI A117.1 standard.
Protection Association include
Board seeks information on whether this
2310
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
provision is adequate in preventing a
research project report includes a list of
individuals could negotiate a full 30 font
hazard to persons with impaired vision
common building materials and their
run of a ramp with a 1:12 slope.
who often use the wall as a shoreline,
respective coefficients. As measured,
Accessible Buildings for People with
they provide an approximation of
Walking and Reaching Limitations, U.S.
especially people with low vision who
sometimes do not use mobility aids such
surface properties needed to ensure
Department of Housing and Urban
as canes and dog guides.
accessibility.
Development (1979). Of those subjects
Question 24: Section 4.4.1 further
Queston 25: The Board recognizes that
unable to use a 1.12 ramp, 65 percent
the slip resistance of materials varies
were able to travel 30 feet of a 1:16
provides that objects with their leading
edges at or below 27 inches above the
widely due to factors over which the
ramp. For any requirement, there is
finished floor may protrude any amount.
builder or designer has no control, such
some percentage of persons who are not
This provision is based on an
as the maintenance of the surface and
accommodated. The Board seeks
assumption that most people with
the presence of water or other
comments regarding whether the 1.12
severe vision impairments use long
contaminants. These factors cannot be
maximum slope should be changed and
canes as a mobility aid and that an
addressed by a design or construction
what costs would be associated with a
object can be detected if its lowest
standard. Nevertheless, inclusion of
reduction of this maximum slope?
surface is not more than 27 inches above
values for slip resistance will require
4.9.2 Stairs: Trends and Risers
the floor. The Board seeks information
builders and designers to consider
on whether this provision gives
carefully the choice of materials and
The analogous UFAS section provides
adequate warning to individuals who
will at least discourage the use of
that open risers are not permitted on
use canes and those who do not use
inappropriate materials. The Board
accessible routes. 16 Since stairs are
canes. If adequate warning is not given,
seeks comments on whether this
never part of an accessible route, the
what changes should be made to the
approach is workable or whether there
Board proposes to prohibit open risers
is a better method of measuring slip
on stairs.
provision?
resistance. Comment is also sought on
4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces: Slip
whether appropriate values for slip
4.10 Elevators
Resistance
resistance should be included for ground
Question 27: The lack of handrails in
and floor surfaces in other sections such
4.8 Ramps: Slip Resistance
elevators often presents unique
as bathing facilities (4.23).
Floors, walks, ramps, stairs, and curb
problems for ambulatory persons with
cuts along accessible routes and in
4.5.3 Ground and Floor Surfaces:
mobility impairments. Many State and
accessible rooms and spaces are
Carpet
local accessibility codes require
required to be stable, firm. and slip
This section provides among other
handrails in elevators and the elevator
resistant; however, no quantitative
things that the maximum pile height for
industry recommends they be included.
measure has been assigned for slip
carpet or carpet tile used on a ground or
See. National Elevator Industry
resistance. This has led to the use of
floor surface shall be 1/2 inch. UFAS
Institute, Minimum Passenger Elevator
some inappropriate materials, especially
added a provision which does not
Requirements for the Handicapped. The
appear in the ANSI A117.1 standard that
Board seeks comments on whether
for ramps. To address this issue, the
Board sponsored a research project
if carpet tile is used on an accessible
handrails should be required in elevator
involving tests of actual subjects with
ground or floor surface, it shall have a
cars and, if SO. should they comply with
disabilities walking or wheeling across a
maximum combined thickness of pile,
the technical specifications for handrails
device to measure frictional forces
cushion, and backing height of 1/2 inches.
at 4.26? What specific location and
under a variety of conditions. While the
The Board has not adopted the UFAS
mounting requirements should apply?
Where should handrails be located in
coefficient of friction under these
provision.
conditions is a dynamic variable, which
relationship to elevator controls?
cannot be readily measured in the field,
4.8.2 Ramps: Slope and Rise
4.12 Windows
the static coefficient of friction can
Question 26: Section 4.8.2 provides
serve as an approximation. The research
that the least possible slope shall be
This section is reserved in UFAS.
project concluded that persons with
used for any ramp and that the
MGRAD has adopted the provisions for
disabilities have a need for greater
maximum slope of a ramp in new
windows from the 1986 version of the
friction on walking surfaces than do
construction shall be 1:12. The Board is
ANSI A117.1 standard. 36 CFR
others. The research project report, Slip
aware of concerns which have been
1190.31(j): 1190.40. The Board proposes
Resistant Surfaces, is available from the
raised regarding the 1:12 maximum slope
to include those provisions in the ADA
Board and the National Technical
of a ramp in new construction. On
guidelines.
Information Services (NTIS). Springfield,
lighter weight sport-type wheelchairs.
Virginia.
the axle is frequently placed forward to
4.17 Toilet Stalls: Width and Grab
Based on the findings of the research
allow a tighter turning radius and to
Bars
project, the Board is considering
reduce the weight on the front wheels,
Question 28: Section 4.17.3 requires
assigning a value for slip resistance in
making the risk of tipping backward on
use of the 60 inch wide standard stall
the technical specifications for ground
a steep ramp in such a wheelchair
(Figure 30(a)) and allows the 36 inch or
and floor surfaces, and ramps.
greater than in a standard wheelchair.
48 inch wide alternate stalls (Figure
Specifically, the Board is considering
The number of persons using lighter
30(b)) only in alterations where
requiring ground and floor surface
weight sport-type wheelchairs has
provision of the standard stall is
materials (other than on ramps) to have
increased in recent years. Additionally,
technically infeasible or where local
a static coefficient of friction of 0.6; and
individuals using standard wheelchairs
plumbing codes prohibit reduction in the
ramp materials to have a static
who have poor upper body strength
coefficient of friction of 0.8. These
have difficult negotiating ramps with a
values, would be measured on a clean,
1:12 slope. Research conducted in the
16 This provision was originally added by UFAS
to the 1980 version of the ANSI A117.1 standard.
dry surface installed according to the
mid-1970s at the University of Syracuse
The 1986 version of the ANSI A117.1 standard
manufacturer's instructions. The
showed that only 56 percent of the
incorporates the UFAS provision.
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2311
number of fixtures. 17 A 60 inch width
accessible toilet room and an accessible
4.28.2 Alarms: Audible Alarms
allows a clear space on one side of the
bathroom. UFAS added an exception
Question 30: This section establishes
toilet to enable persons who use
which does not appear in the ANSI
sound levels for audible emergency
wheelchairs to perform a side or
A117.1 standard allowing a toilet room
alarms. Many individuals confuse
diagonal transfer from a wheelchair to
or bathroom with only one water closet
audible emergency alarms with other
the toilet. However, some persons with
and one lavatory (and one bathtub or
auditory signals such as elevator
disabilities who use mobility aids such
shower in the case of a bathroom) to
emergency bells. Standardization of
as a walker, cane or crutches are better
have a clear floor space of 30 inches by
emergency alarms within buildings and
able to use the dual parallel grab bars in
60 inches. The Board proposes to omit
facilities should alleviate this problem
the 36 inch wide alternate stall to
this UFAS exception from the sections.
and provide a greater likelihood of
achieve a standing position. These
timely responses. The Board seeks
persons feel that dual parallel grab bars
4.28.1 Alarms: General
comment on whether this concern is an
are most effective for their needs. A
4.28.3 Alarms: Visual Alarms
accessibility issue to be addressed in
possible way to accommodate these
these guidelines or a life safety issue
individuals as well as wheelchair users
These sections are based on a Board
equally affecting all members of the
who require the standard 60 inch wide
sponsored research project on visual
general public which is more
stall is to require movable grab bars.
signals. The research project included
appropriately addressed by other codes?
The design might provide
human factors tests on the
accommodations for a wider range of
characteristics of visual signals which
4.28.4 Alarms: Auxiliary Alarms
persons. The Board requests information
might be used as emergency alarms for
This section concerns the provision of
on the following questions:
persons with hearing impairments and
visual alarms for hearing impaired
(a) Section 4.17.6 requires grab bars in
involved over 200 subjects in both
persons in dwelling units and sleeping
tcilet stalls to comply with 4.26. Section
laboratory and field settings. Copies of
accommodations. See, section 9.3 and
4.26.3 specifies structural strength at any
point along the grab bar. If properly
the research project report, Visual
related discussion on requirements for
Signals Project. are available from the
visual alarms in hotels, motels, inns.
installed, can movable grab bars
Board and the National Technical
boarding houses, dormitories, resorts,
available on the market comply with
Information Service. Springfield,
and other similar places of transient
4.26.3?
(b) What are the costs associated with
Virginia. The Board has presented the
lodging. The Board proposes to add a
installation of movable grab bars in both
results of the research project to the
provision to this section which would
new construction and alterations as
ANSI A117 Committee which is in the
require that when visual alarms are in
compared to providing a standard stall?
process of revising the ANSI A117.1
place, they shall be visible in all areas of
(c) If movable grab bars are left in a
standard. The Board has attempted to
the unit or room.
parallel position can they be moved
be consistent with the planned revisions
4.29.2 Detectable Warnings on
independently by a person with a severe
to these sections in the ANSI A117.1
Walking Surfaces
mobility impairment who needs the
standard.
A detectable warning is a
required clearances provided in the
The research team that conducted the
standardized surface feature built in or
standard stall?
project considered the level of coverage
(d) How do movable grab bars
applied to walking surfaces or other
and cost, and recommended the use of
elements to warn individuals with visual
compare to currently required grab bars.
with respect to general maintenance and
visual signals in all restrooms; any other
impairments of hazards on a circulation
susceptibility to abuse and vandalism?
public use or common use areas where
path (e.g., walks, hallways, courtyards,
(e) Should movable grab bars be
an individual with a hearing impairment
stairways, and stair landings). Persons
required only in certain occupancy types
is likely to be alone at anytime such as
with little or no usable vision'rely on
such as nursing homes or airports?
hallways. lobbies, employee lounge
tactile, sound, and resilience contrasts
Question 29: Another option is to
areas, and copier rooms; and individual
to detect hazards. Persons with some
require that a 36 inch wide alternate
work stations where an individual with
vision rely on visual contrasts to detect
stall or a conventional, non-accessible
a hearing impairment is an assigned
hazards.
stall be equipped with dual parallel grab
occupant. The Board has incorporated
When the Board developed MGRAD
bars. This would be required in addition
this recommendation in section 4.28.1,
in the early 1980's, it reserved most of
to the 60 inch wide standard stall with
except for requiring visual signal
the sections on detectable warnings
its current grab bar requirements. The
appliances at individual work stations
(then called tactile warnings) pending
Board seeks comments on this option.
because it is not possible to know during
research on the area and the same was
including whether a conventional stall,
the design and construction of a building
done in UFAS. 18 In 1985, the Board
which may vary in width, would provide
which individual work stations might be
sponsored a research project which
adequate clearance between the grab
occupied by persons with hearing
compared a variety of existing surface
bars to assure individuals of sufficient
treatments for detectability. The
impairments. The provision of a visual
leverage for rising to a standing position.
research project found that, of various
signal appliance at a particular work
cues detectable by cane and foot,
4.22.3 Toilet Rooms: Clear Floor Space
-tation would be an issue of reasonable
textural changes are the least
4.23.3 Bathrooms: Clear Floor Space
accommodation when an individual
detectable. Grooves are not only poorly
with a hearing impairment is employed.
These sections require an
detectable but may fill with dirt, floor
The Board has also incorporated in
unobstructed turning space complying
section 4.28.3 the findings of the
with 4.2.3 (a clear space of 60 inch
18 The 1988 version of the ANSI A117.1 standard
diameter) to be provided within-an
research project regarding those
requires detectable warning textures on walking
photometric and placement features
surfaces to consist of exposed aggregate concrete,
which were generally effective in
cushioned surfaces made of rubber or plastic, raised
17 The ANSL A1171 standard allows either the
altering people with hearing
strips, or grooves (indoor only) and to contrast with
standard or alternate toliet stalls to be used in new
the texture of the surrounding surface. ANSI
construction or alterations.
impairments.
A117.1-1986, section 427.2
2312
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
wax, snow and ice, and other materials
including concrete stamping or the
A117.1 standard. With respect to
so as to be indistinguishable from
application of a prefabricated surface
detectable warnings at stairs' the Board
normal expansion joints, tile grout, and
treatment. Since resilience changes (e.g.,
proposes to require the detectable
other surface characteristics. From the
contrasting concrete, ceramic tile or
warning to be 36 inches deep: extend the
perspective of simple detection, artificial
masonry against rubber tile, vinyl tile, or
width of the stair run: and be separated
grass. ribbed matting, and a 1/8 in
tennis court material) are the most
from the top stair edge by a distance
checker plate were all found reliable at
universally detectable, the Board also
equal to the width of one thread.
the rate of 80 per cent or better. Even
proposes to require detectable warnings
4.30 Signage
though there was a high detectability
used on interior surfaces to differ from
rate, subjects were unable to recognize
adjoining walking surfaces in resiliency
With the exception of 4.30.2 (character
these surfaces as "warnings" since they
or sound-on-cane contact.
proportion). the Board proposes
were commonly used as flooring and
The planned revisions to the ANSI
modify or add provisions to the sections
walking surfaces.
A117.1 standard for detectable warnings
relating to signage. Many of the
When the Board revised MGRAD in
are also expected to include a provision
proposed provisions are based on a
1987-88, it continued to reserve most of
for a contrasting yellow color. The
Board sponsored research project on
the sections on detectable warnings
Board is not inclined to adopt this
information and signage needs of
because the findings of the research
proposal until further research is
persons with low vision, and are
project did not support the use of any
conducted regarding the visibility of the
generally consistent with the planned
color yellow as contrasted to light
revisions to the ANSI A117.1 standard.
one surface or material that would
consistently serve as a detectable
colored pavements by persons with low
Copies of the research project report,
vision under diverse lighting conditions.
Information Systems for Low Vision
warning. However, subsequent research
sponsored by the U.S. Department of
Instead. the Board proposes to specify a
Persons, are available from the Board or
Transportation, Urban Mass Transit
visual contrast formula derived from a
the National Technical Information
Administration in 1987, compared the
Board sponsored research project on the
System. Springfield, Virginia.
detectability of vinyl synthetic rubber
information and signage needs of
4.30.1 General
warning tiles with raised domes, and
persons with low vision. The formula is
a standard comparison ratio and
The Board proposes to add a
pvc and epoxy poly aggregate corduroy
with domed ridges. Both features were
specifies a 70 percent visual contrast
provision to this section requiring that
found to be highly detectable but results
with adjoining surfaces. Copies of the
directional signage be provided at
inaccessible entrances indicating the
suggest that the raised dome tile was
research project report, Information
location of the nearest accessible
readily discriminated from other
Systems for Low Vision Persons. are
entrance.
surfaces even when installed adjacent
available from the Board and the
to materials with similar resiliency
National Technical Information Service,
4.30.3 Character Height and Letter
characteristics. See. Tactile Warnings to
Springfield, Virginia. According to the
Spacing
Promote Safety in the Vicinity of
American Foundation for the Blind, 85
The Board sponsored research project
Transit Platform Edges, Urban Mass
percent of the 1.4 million legally blind
on information and signage needs of
Transportation Administration (1987). A
Americans have some usable vision and
persons with low vision found that
study published in February 1988 by the
would benefit from a specific
viewing distance is critical for reading
Metro-Dade Transit Agency in Florida
requirement for contrast.
signage and that persons with low
compared detectable warnings
Question 31: The Board seeks
vision need to be ten times closer to
consisting of raised truncated domes to
comments on the following questions:
read certain signs that those with
a granite transit platform edge and curbs
(a) Is a 70 percent contrast between
normal vision. The research project also
and found that raised truncated domes
the detectable warning and adjoining
found that wide spacing was easier to
were "significantly more detectable"
surfaces too difficult to achieve?
read for persons with low vision and
than the granite edge. See. Pathfinder
(b) Does any research indicate that
helped to reduce the halo-effect around
Tactile Tile Demonstration Test Project,
another ratio may be more appropriate?
letters in internally lighted signs.
Metro-Dade Transit Agency (1988).
(c) Would a one inch black band
Based on these research findings. the
These warnings were further found to
between the detectable warning and
Board proposes to add a new section
"insignificantly" affect the ability of
adjoining surfaces provide sufficient
4.30.3 which provides for characters and
wheelchair users to utilize curb ramps.
contrast for persons with low vision?
numbers on signs to be sized according
Passenger injuries data from the Bay
4.9.5 Detectable Warnings at Stairs
to the viewing distance from which they
Area Rapid Transit System in California
indicate a decrease in the number of
4.7.7 Curb Ramps: Detectable
are to be read. Wall mounted signs
within 66 inches of the floor would be
slips and falls in 1988 after the
Warnings
required to have 1 inch minimum
installation of detectable warnings with
4.29.4 Detectable Warnings at Stairs
character height: and signs mounted
raised truncated domes at the edge of
4.29.5 Detectable Warnings at
above 66 inches. or suspended or
station platforms.
Hazardous Vehicular Areas
projected overhead in compliance with
The planned revisions to the ANSI
4.4.2 (protruding objects must have 80
A117.1 standard are expected to include
4.29.6 Detectable Warnings at
inches minimum clear head room).
a provision for detectable warnings
Reflecting Pools
would be required to have 3 inches
consisting of truncated domes. In light of
These sections were reserved in
minimum character height. 19 Building
the more recent research and the
MGRAD and UFAS pending the
planned revisions to the ANSI A117.1
adoption of technical specifications for
19 The planned revisions to the ANSI A117.1
standard. the Board proposes to require
detectable warnings. Since the Board
standard are also expected to add 8 section on
the use of raised truncated domes in
has proposed technical specifications
character height. The mounting heights referenced
section 4.29.2 (detectable warnings on
for detectable warnings in 4.29.2, the
in section 4.30.3 of these guidelines and the planned
revisions to the ANSI AS117.1 standard are
walking surfaces). These domes can be
Board further proposes to adopt these
consistent with those specified for tactile signage in
constructed using a variety of methods
sections from the 1986 version of ANSI
each document. See. section 4.30.6.
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2313
directories mounted at any height would
visual perception. Standardization of alt
4.30.7 Symbols of Accessibility
be required to have 5/8 inch minim am
pictograms would be extremely difficult
character height because of their overall
and the benefit is questionable. A
UFAS presently provides that
size and the temporary nature of the
requirement for accompanying verbal
accessible facilities required to be
information displayed on such signs.
description allows for greater flexibility
identified by 4.1 shall use the
Section 4.30.3 would also require that
in design while accommodating persons
international symbol of accessibility.
spacing between letters be "wide" by
who are unable to make use of
The Board proposes to add provisions
industry practice and that, generally. the
pictograms (e.g. stick figures used to
that telephones required to be equipped
space be 1/18 the height of upper case
identify restrooms being accompanied
with 8 volume control by 4.1.3(17)(b)
letters.
by the words "Men" and "Women").
shall be identified by a sign containing a
4.30.4 Raised and Brailled Characters
This requirement is consistent with the
depiction of a telephone handset with
and Pictorial Symbol Signs (Pictograms)
planned revisions to the ANSI A117.1
radiating sound waves: and telephones
standard.
required to be equipped with a
4.30.6 Mounting Location and Height
telecommunication display device or
Section 4.30.6 is based on UFAS and
telecommunication device for the deaf
These two sections concern tactile
provides that where permanent
signage and apply to exterior signage
(TDD) by 4.1.3(17)(c) shall be identified
identification is provided for rooms and
identifying buildings and facilities. and
by the international TDD symbol. Where
doorways, signage shall be installed on
exterior and interior signage that
TDDs are required, this section would
the wall adjacent to the latch side of the
provides permanent identification of
also require that directional signage
door. Section 4.30.6 further requires that
rooms and spaces such as toilet
displaying the international TDD symbol
the signage be mounted at a height of
facilities and room numbers. See,
be placed adjacent to all single user or
between 54 inches and 66 inches above
sections 4.1.2(7) and 4.1.3(16) for scoping
banks or telephones which do not
the finished floor. 20 A provision has
contain a TDD that indicates the
provisions.
also been added that a person must be
Section 4.30.4 provides that letters and
location of the nearest TDD.
able to approach within 3 inches of the
numerals shall be raised 1/32 inch, upper
signage without encountering protruding
4.30.8 Illumination Levels
case, sans serif or simple serif type, and
accompanied by Grade 2 Braille. The
objects or standing within the swing of a
The Board sponsored research project
door so that individuals who must
appendix to the guidelines includes
on information and signage needs of
information about Braille dimensions.
approach signage closely to read it can
persons with low vision found that
Section 4.30.4 also requires that
do so safely.
relatively uniform, diffuse general
pictograms be accompanied by
4.30.5 Finish and Contrast
illumination is critical for people with
equivalent verbal description placed
various disabilities as well as for the
directly below the pictogram and that
UFAS provides that characters and
general public. Ceiling mounted down
the border dimension for the pictogram
symbols shall contrast with their
lights and similar directional lighting
be 6 inches minimum in height.
background (either light characters on a
create alternating pools of light and
Section 4.30.4 differs from UFAS in
dark background or dark characters on
shadow that make it more difficult for
several respects. UFAS permits incised
a light background). The Board proposes
persons with certain visual impairments
letters to be used. However, research
to include the requirement that
to read signs. Based on tests of subjects,
has shown that incised letters cannot be
characters shall be either light on a dark
the research project found that optimal
reliably read by touch. Neither the 1986
background, or dark on & light
success at reading a variety of signs and
version of the ANSI A117.1 standard nor
background, and to add requirements
typefaces was achieved using a lighting
the existing MGRAD permit the use of
with respect to finish and contrast.
level of 300 lux (30 footcandles) at the
incised letters and, therefore, they are
Section 4.30.5 would require that
sign panel itself. The ambient lighting
not permitted by section 4.30.4. See,
characters and background of signs be
level need not be the same. When the
ANSI A117.1-1986; section 4.28.4; 36 CFR
eggshell (11-19 degree gloss on 60
illumination level was reduced to 100
1190.31(p), 1190.40. UFAS does not allow
degree glossmeter) to minimize
lux, the success rate decreased by 24 per
serif type letters. For signs intended to
reflectance (the degree and intensity
cent: and when the level was raised to
be read only visually. no statistically
that light reflects from surfaces) which
500 lux, the success rate decreased by 9
significant differences have been found
disproportionately affects certain
per cent.
between simple serif and sans serif type.
persons with low vision. A matte finish,
This section incorporates the findings
For this reason, section 4.30.4 permits
although similar to eggshell in its
of the research project and provides that
simple serif characters. Requirements
positive characteristics, soils easily and
illumination levels on the sign surface
have also been added for upper case
is more difficult to clean than eggshell.
shall be in the 100-300 lux range and
characters and Braille. For those
Section 4.30.5 would also require that
shall be uniform over the sign surface.
individuals who use, Braille, it is the
characters contrast with their
The section further provides that signs
preferred medium, Grade 2 Braille is
background by at least 70 percent as
shall be located SQ that the illumination
presented in contracted form similar to
measured by a standard comparison
level on the surface of the sign is not
shorthand and requires less physical
ratio. These provisions are consistent
significantly exceeded by the ambient
contact on the part of the reader. The
with the planned revisions to the ANSI
light or visible bright lighting source
planned revisions to the ANSI A117.1
A117.1 standard.
behind or in front of the sign.
standard are expected to include similar
requirements for upper case characters
4.33 Assembly Areas: Row Spacing
and Grade 2 Braille on tactile signage.
20 The ANSI A117.1 standard does not presently
and Lines of Sight
contain a section on the mounting location and
Pictograms that are presented without
height of tactile signage; but the planned revisions
This section incorporates the
verbal description present barriers to
to that standard are expected to include such a
persons with insufficient vision to see
section which may vary slightly from the existing
provisions of UFAS section 4.33 relating
detail, as well as to persons with certain
FAS-requirement and these proposed guidelines
to assembly areas. The Board seeks
with respect to the minimum and maximum
comments on two issues concerning
disabilities involving the organization of
mounting heights.
seating in assembly areas.
2314
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
Question 32: The first issue involves
4.34.2 Controls
other information relating to the use of
row spacing. Many people with mobility
4.34.3 Clearances and Reach Ranges
ATMs accessible to persons with vision
impairments find it difficult to get to
impairments. If a telephone handset or
mid-row seats in assembly areas such
Section 4.34.2 states that controls for
other listening device is used, is the
as theaters or sports arenas. Wider row
user activation shall comply with 4.27
equipment any more susceptible to
spacing, with a greater distance
(controls and operating mechanisms)
vandalism than handsets currently used
between the edge of the seat and the
which contains requirements for clear
for public telephones? Are there ways
back of the seat in the next row forward,
floor space to be provided at controls
that vandalism can be minimized? Can
would make it much easier for everyone
(4.27.2);)the maximum and minimum
information provided on video display
to access mid-row seating. Building
heights for the placement of controls
screens such as "deposit or withdrawal"
codes currently provide options in the
(4.27.3); and the operation of controls
and "checking or savings" be provided
design of seating areas. One option is to
(4.27.4). These provisions allow
in Braille as the user presses various,
limit the number of seats in rows that
flexibility in design and do not prescribe
keys? Can receipts be made accessible
have conventional narrow row spacing:
the size and arrangement of controls.
by Braille or voice synthesis if a
and another option is to allow an
Although a clear space under ATM
telephone handset or other listening
increase in the allowable number of
units would make them usable by more
device is used? How can screen
seats per row when there is a
people, the internal configuration and
illumination and contrast be provided in
corresponding increase in the distance
placement of the safe in many units may
an outdoor environment where glare
between rows ("continental" seating).
make this difficult. Section 4.34.3 states
may be a problem?
The Board seeks comments on whether
that free standing or built-in ATM units
Question 36: Whatever
row spacing should also be addressed
not having a clear space under them
accommodations are made for persons
as an accessibility issue.
shall provide for a parallel approach
with vision impairments should not
Question 33: The second issue
(see, 4.2.4 and Figure 4(c)) and both a
preclude use by other persons with
involves lines of sight at seating.
forward and side reach to the unit (see,
disabilities. If telephone handsets are
locations for people who use
4.2.5. and 4.2.6) allowing a person in a
use to convey printed and displayed
wheelchairs. Section 4.33.3 provides that
wheelchair to access the controls and
information to persons with vision
seating locations for people who use
dispensers.
impairments, should a visual display be
wheelchairs shall be dispersed
Question 34: The scoping provisions in
required to maintain accessibility for
throughout the seating area and shall be
4.1.3(20) contain an exception for drive-
persons with hearing impairments? Is
located to provide lines of sight
up-only ATMs and state that they are
there a possibility that handsets would
comparable to those for all viewing
not required to comply with 4.34.2 and
entirely replace video display screens?
areas. This requirement appears to be
4.34.3 because they are designed to be
Question 37: The Board also seeks
adequate for theaters and concert halls.
used from motor vehicles.2 However.
comments on how privacy needs can be
but may not suffice in sports arenas or
the Board seeks additional information
met in the context of accessible ATMs.
race tracks where the audience
on reach range requirements from
For example. some video display
frequently stands throughout a large
standard size motor vehicles.
screens and controls are mounted
portion of the game or event. In
4.34.4 Equipment for Persons with
horizontally or at a shallow angle to
alterations of existing sports arenas.
Vision Impairments
prevent individuals standing behind the
accessible spaces are frequently
user from viewing the transaction. This
provided at the lower part of a seating
Section 4.34.4 provides that
design often makes it difficult for a user
tier projecting out above a lower seating
instructions and all information for use
seated in a wheelchair to use the ATM.
tier or are built out over existing seats at
of ATMs shall be made accessible to an
Are there other ways that privacy can
the top of a tier providing a great
independently usable by persons with
be provided without rendering the
differential in height. These solutions
vision impairments. The planned
equipment inaccessible? How can audio
can work in newly constructed sports
revisions to the ANSI A117.1 standard
output (other than by a telephone
arenas as well, if sight lines relative to
may contain more specific provisions
handset) be offered to accommodate
standing patrons are considered at the
with respect to equipping ATMs for use
individuals with vision impairments in a
time of initial design. The Board seeks
by persons with vision impairments. The
private manner?
comments on whether full lines of sight
Board proposes to state the requirement
Question 38: The Board further seeks
over standing spectators in sports
in general performance terms in view of
comments on what security issues, if
arenas and other similar assembly areas
the evolving technology in this area and
any, should be considered relative to an
should be required.
to allow flexibility in design. Some
individual with a disability? Are there
banks and financial institutions
4.34 Automated Teller Machines
considerations with respect to the
presently have accessible ATMs that
environment around ATMs ("surround
4.34.1 General
can be used independently by persons
design") that may cause difficulty
The legislative history of the ADA
with vision impairments, for example
complying with the provisions of this
specifically refers to automated teller
American Express Company and Bay
section?
machines (ATMs) and states that it
Banks Systems in Waltham,
would be a violation of title III to build a
Massachusetts.
Question 39: Finally. the Board further
seeks comments on whether other point
new bank with ATMs that are not
Question 35: The Board seeks
of sale machines, such as machines
readily accessible to and usable by
additional information on equipment
selling insurance at airports or machines
persons with disabilities. H. Rept. 101-
presently in use or available
used for overnight delivery of letters and
485, pt. 3. at 60-61. The Board proposes
technologies for making instructions and
packages, should be covered by these
to include requirements for ATMs in the
guidelines. Some of these machines may
technical specifications with respect to
21 Drive-up-only ATMs are not exempt from 4.34.4
require the user to fill out forms. Should
controls (4.34.2); clearances and reach
(equipment for persons with vision impairments)
such information be made accessible to
because an individual with a vision impairment may
ranges (4.34.3); and equipment for
be a passenger in 8 car and require access to and
persons with vision impairments?
persons with visual impairments (4.34.4).
independent use of the unit.
Should forms be provided in large print
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2315
and Braille? Should a typewriter
5.4 Food Service Lines
Section 6.1 contains a table
keyboard be provided for completing
Section 5.4 is taken from UFAS and
incorporating scoping provisions from
forms? How will the user know that
provides technical specification for
UFAS section 4.1.4(9)(b). With respect to
entries are correct?
accessible food service lines. Instead of
patient bedrooms and toilet rooms,
5. Restourants and Cafeterias
requiring a "reasonable portion" of self-
general purpose hospitals, psychiatric
service shelves to be within forward and
facilities, and detoxification units must
5.1 General
side reach ranges (4.2.5 and 4.2.6), the
have at least 10 percent of such rooms
Section 5 provides specific
Board proposes to require at least 50
accessible; long term care facilities and
requirements for restaurants and
percent of each type of self-service
nursing homes must have at least 50
cafeterias, in addition to those
shelves to be within the required reach
percent of such rooms accessible; and
contained in 4.1 through 4.34.
ranges.
hospitals that specialize in treating
conditions affecting mobility must have
Question 40: Section 5.1 is based on
5.5 Counters and Bars
all of such rooms accessible. In addition,
UFAS and states that where fixed tables
are provided, at least 5 percent, but not
Section 5.5 requires that where food or
all public use, common use, and
less than one, of the fixed tables shall be
drink is served at counters exceeding 34
employee use areas in each type of
accessible and comply with 4.32
inches in height, a portion of the counter
medical care facility must be designed
shall comply with 4.32 (seating, tables,
and constructed to be accessible.
(seating, tables, and work surfaces).
and work surfaces) or service shall be
Space must be provided around
Although section 6.1 requires only a
available at accessible tables within the
accessible fixed tables to allow people
percentage of patient bedrooms in
same area.
who use wheelchairs to maneuver to the
certain types of medical care facilities to
table. Many building codes currently
5.6 Tableware and Condiment Areas
be accessible, all patient bedrooms are
require 5 percent of fixed tables to be
also employee areas and would have to
Section 5.6 requires that self-service
accessible. However, the proposed
be designed and constructed so that a
shelves and dispensing devices for
BCMC scoping provisions for the ANSI
doctor, nurse, or other health care
tableware, dishware, condiments, food
A117.1 standard and recently approved
personnel with a disability can
and beverages be installed to comply
revisions to the Uniform Building Code
approach, enter, and exit the rooms. See,
with 4.2 (space allowance and reach
provide for 10 percent of fixed tables to
section 4.1.1(3) for additional discussion.
ranges).
be accessible. The Board seeks
Question 41: The medical care
comments on whether the 5 percent
5.7 Raised Platforms
facilities listed in the table are meant to
figure is adequate or whether a higher or
Section 5.7 requires that a raised
be illustrative. If a specific medical care
lower percent should be specified? What
platform used for the head table or
facility is not mentioned in the table, it
effect would the different percentages
speaker's lectern in banquet rooms or
is required to meet the requirements for
have on space layouts and revenues?
spaces shall be accessible by means of a
the type of facility that it most closely
5.2 Dining Areas
ramp or platform lift complying with 4.8
resembles. The Board seeks comments
or 4.11, respectively. Open edges of a
on whether there are specific medical
Section 5.2 requires that, in newly
raised platform must be protected by the
care facilities which are different from
constructed restaurants and cafeterias.
placement of tables or by a curb.
the types listed in the table and whether
raised or sunken dining areas, loggias,
they should be included in the table.
and outdoor seating areas must be
5.8 Vending Machines and Other
accessible. In alterations, assessibility
Equipment
6.3 Patient Bedrooms
to raised or sunken dining areas, or to
Section 5.8 requires that locations for
6.4 Patient Toilet Rooms
all parts of outdoor seating areas is not
vending machines and other equipment
These sections are taken from UFAS
required provided that the same services
be on an accessible route and that the
and contain technical specifications for
and decorative character are provided
vending machines and equipment be
accessible patient bedrooms and
in an accessible space usable by the
installed to comply with 4.2 (space
general public and not restricted to use
accessible patient toilet rooms.
allowances and reach range) and 4.27
by people with disabilities.
(controls and operating mechanisms).
7. Business and Merchantile
If a restaurant is located in a building
6. Medical Care Facilities
7.1 General
that is not required to have an elevator
(see, 4.1.3(5)) and has 8 mezzanine. and
6.1 General
These sections contain specific
if the area of mezzanine seating
These sections establish specific
requirements for all areas used for
measures no more than 33 percent of the
requirements for medical care facilities,
business transactions with the public,
accessible seating area, then an
in addition to those contained in 4.1
and are in addition to those in 4.1
accessible means of vertical access to
through 4.34. The provisions are taken
through 4.34.
the mezzanine is not required provided
from UFAS but the overall title of the
that the same services and decorative
7.2 Sales and Service Counters, Teller
section is designated medical care
character are provided in an accessible
Windows, Information Counters
facilities instead of health care facilities
space usable by the general public and
to avoid confusion with the term
Section 7.2 requires that where
not restricted to persons with
"professional office of a health care
counters exceeding 36 inches in height
disabilities. This exception does not
provider" that is used elsewhere in the
are provided for sales or distribution of
apply to buildings required to have an
ADA. The sections apply to medical
goods or services to the public, a portion
elevator.
care facilities such as hospitals where
of the main counter must be provided
5.3 Access Aisles
persons may need assistance in
with a maximum height of between 24
responding to an emergency and where
inches and 34 inches above the floor. In
Section 5.3 contains technical
the period of residence may exceed
alterations, where it is technically
specifications for access aisles to
twenty-four hours. Doctors' and dentists'
infeasible to provide an accessible
accessible fixed tables.
offices are not included.
portion of the main counter, an auxiliary
2316
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
counter meeting the accessible height
check-out aisles can be combined into a
where possible. Shelf height in stack
requirements may be provided.
double-wide aisle served by cashiers on
areas is unrestricted.
Question 42: The Board seeks
both the right and left sides of the aisle.
9. Accessible Transient Lodging
comments regarding how this provision
The Board seeks information relating to
should be applied where services are
the experience of stores which have
The ADA specifically includes inns,
provided at several points along a
utilized these designs to provide wider
hotels, motels, or other places of lodging,
counter such as teller stations in a bank
check-out aisles. Do the designs present
and homeless shelters in the categories
or ticketing areas at an airport. Should a
additional security considerations and,
of public accommodations. For purpose
portion of the counter at each teller
if so, in what ways have those
of these guidelines, those public
station or ticketing area be accessible or
considerations been successfully
accommodations are called "transient
should only a percentage of the teller
addressed? What is the net effect of the
lodging." As defined in section 3.5,
stations or ticketing areas meet the
staggered front-to-back design on
"transient lodging" may contain one or
requirement?
overall square footage?
more sleeping accommodations (i.e.)
7.3 Check-Out Aisles
7.4 Security Bollards
rooms in which people sleep as in most
hotels) or dwelling units (i.e., a unit with
UFAS provides that at least one
Section 7.4 is taken from UFAS and
a kitchen or food preparation area in
check-out aisle must be accessible
states that devices used to prevent the
addition to rooms and spaces for living.
where check-out aisles are provided.
removal of shopping carts from store
bathing. and sleeping as in many
Accessible check-out aisles must have a
premises shall not prevent access or
resorts). As used in these guidelines, the
clear aisle width complying with 4.2.1
egress for persons who use wheelchairs.
term "dwelling unit" does not include
(wheelchair passage width) and a
An alternative entry that is equally
any unit that is used as a residence
maximum adjoining counter height not
convenient to that provided for the
because such units are generally
exceeding 36 inches above the floor.
general public is acceptable.
covered by the Fair Housing
The Board proposes to require that all
8. Libraries
Amendments Act of 1988 and not the
check-out aisles be accessible for
ADA.
several reasons. First, the requirement
8.1 General
Section 9 contains specific
for at least one accessible check-out
These sections are all taken from
requirements for transient lodging which
aisle has been unsatisfactory because
UFAS without change and provide
are in addition to those contained in
the accessible check-out aisle is not
specific requirements for the design of
sections 4.1 through 4.34, and sections 5
always open or equipment may be
all public areas of libraries, including
and 7.
broken. Second. check-out aisles are
reading and study areas, stacks,
used in different ways. For instances,
reference rooms, reserve areas, and
9.1 Hotels, Motels, Inns, Boarding
some check-out aisles serve as express
special facilities and collections. They
Houses, Domitories, Resorts and Other
lines for customers purchasing small
are in addition to the requirements
Similar Places of Transient Lodging
number of items (e.g., "10 items or less").
contained in 4.1 through 4.34.
Section 9.1 applies to hotels, motels.
Some check-out aisles accept only cash
8.2 Reading and Study Areas
inns, boarding houses, domitories,
transactions while others also accept
resorts and other similar places of
checks and credit cards. The reports of
Section 8.2 requires that at least 5
lodging. This section contains scoping
the House Education and Labor
percent, or a minimum of one, of each
provisions and requires all public and
Committee and the House Judiciary
element of fixed seating, tables, or study
common use areas to be accessible. The
Committee generally recognize that the
carrels must comply with 4.2 (space
extent to which identical features should
section also requires five percent of
allowance and reach ranges) and 4.32
be accessible depends on whether they
each class of sleeping rooms or suites to
(seating, tables, and work surfaces).
be fully accessible and an additional
will be used in different ways. H. Rept.
Clearances between fixed accessible
five percent to provide accommodations
101-485, pt. 2, at 118; H. Rept. 101-485,
tables and study carrels must comply
pt. 3, at 61. The former report, but not
for persons with hearing impairments.
with 4.3 (accessible route).
the latter, states that "all check-out
The section further requires that all
lanes in a supermarket should be
8.3 Check-Out Areas
doors and doorways intended for
sufficiently wide to allow passage by
Section 8.3 requires that at least one
passage into and within any sleeping
individuals who use wheelchairs." H.
lane in each check-out area must comply
room or suite, whether or not the room
Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at 118. See also,
with 4.32 (seating, tables, and work
or suite is fully accessible, provide
statement of Congressman Morrison at
surfaces). Any traffic or book security
adequate clear width complying with
136 Cong. Rec. H. 2625 (May 22, 1990)
gates or turnstiles must comply with 4.13
4.13.5 for persons using wheelchairs.
("checkout stands can have different
Maneuvering clearances are required
(doors).
functions
requiring all checkout
only in fully accessible rooms and
stands to be accessible is not
8.4 Card Catalogs
suites. This latter requirement is based
burdensome and achieves the necessary
Section 8.4 requires that card catalogs,
on the legislative history of the ADA.
degree of accessibility").
magazine displays, and reference stacks
See, section 9.4 for additional
Question 43: Third, in new
provide a 36 inch minimum clear aisle
discussion.
construction of many facilities, the
space and a maximum reach height
The section includes an exception
Board expects that all check-out aisles
complying with 4.2 (space allowances
based on the statute that these
can be designed and constructed to be
and reach ranges). A height of 48 inches
requirements do not apply to an
accessible with only minor variations
is preferred. regardless of reach
establishment located within a building
from what is considered the "typical"
allowed.
that contains not more than five rooms
design and little or no increase in
for rent or hire and that is actually
8.5 Stacks
overall square footage. For instance,
occupied by the proprietor of the
cashiers' stations can be staggered
Section 8.4 requires a 36 inch
establishment as a residence.
front-to-back, as they are currently in
minimum clear aisle width between
UFAS, the Uniform Building Code,
some discount stores; or two narrow
stacks. A width of 42 inches is preferred
and proposed BCMC scoping provisions
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2317
for the ANSI A117.1 standard all require
"Interpretation of ANSI A117.1 (1986) as
too low for people who stand in the
five percent of sleeping rooms to be
Applicable to New Hotels and Motels."
shower but have limited balance and
accessible to persons with mobility
Each fully accessible unit, sleeping room
need grab bars to prevent falls. Some
impairments. Many States which have
or suite must be located on an
hotels place a vertical grab bar adjacent
accessibility provisions for transient
accessible route, even if a building is
to the shower head to prevent falls by
lodging also require four to five percent
exempt from the elevator requirement
people who stand. Should a vertical
of sleeping rooms be accessible. An
under section 4.1.3(5). Thus, in a building
grab bar be required in addition to the
analysis of demographic data reveals
without an elevator, all fully accessible
dual horizontal grab bars?
that there are at least as many persons
units, sleeping rooms and suites must be
(b) Consistent with UFAS and the
with hearing impairments as there are
located on the accessible ground floor.
ANSI A117.1 standard, sections 4.20.6
persons with mobility impairments. In
Fully accessible units, sleeping rooms or
and 4.21.6 of the guidelines require that
1988, the Board sponsored research on
suites must have the following
a shower spray unit with a hose at least
the need for accessibility. The project
accessible elements and spaces:
60 inches long which can be used as a
report, which is titled Persons Who
Maneuvering space complying with
fixed shower head or as a hand held
Need or Benefit From Accessibility
4.2.3 (wheelchair turning space) along at
shower be provided in accessible
Features In the Built Environment,
least one side of at least one bed;
bathtubs and accessible shower stalls.
includes the following statistics:
An accessible route complying with
The shower spray unit is usually
1,341,000 individuals are reported to
4.3 to connect all accessible spaces and
attached to a hook on an adjustable
use a wheelchair and/or walker
elements, including telephones, within
vertical bar. The mounting location of
(National Health Institute Services,
the unit, sleeping room or suite;
the hook is often too high to be reached
Home Care Supplement: 1980);
Doors and doorways complying
by people who use wheelchairs. Should
5,191,000 individuals are unable to
with 4.13 to allow passage into and
two mounting hooks be provided: one
walk up a flight of stairs (Bureau of
within the unit, sleeping room or suite;
mounted at a height for people who
Census, Disability Functional Limitation
Storage (e.g., cabinets, shelves,
stand and one mounted at a height for
and Insurance Coverage: 1984-85);
closets and drawers) complying with
people who sit to take a shower?
1,741,000 individuals are deaf in
4.25;
(c) Consistent with UFAS and the
both ears (National Institute on
Controls (e.g., thermostats and
ANSI A117.1 standard, section 4.21.2 of
Disability and Rehabilitation Research,
lights) complying with 4.27; and
the guidelines allow two sizes of
Data on Disability from the National
Accommodations for persons with
accessible shower stalls. One shower
Health Interview Survey: 1983); and
hearing impairments complying with 9.3.
stall is 36 inches by 36 inches with a
7,694,000 individuals have difficulty
At least one sleeping area and one full
maximum 1/2 inch curb height (Figure
hearing what is said in a normal
bathroom with a water closet, lavatory,
conservation with another person,
and a bathtub or shower must be
35(a)). The other shower stall is the
same size as the space required for a
including those who cannot hear at all
accessible in each fully accessible unit,
bathtub (30 inches by 60 inches) and can
(Bureau of Census, Disability Functional
sleeping room or suite. If only half
have a ½ inch leveled edge or change in
Limitation and Insurance Coverage:
bathrooms (without bathtub or shower)
are provided, then at least one half
level (1:50 slope) as allowed on an
1984-85).
bathroom must be accessible. Where a
accessible route (Figure 35(b)). The
Other studies indicate that a greater
smaller shower stall requires a shower
percentage of individuals have a hearing
living area, dining area, patio, terrace,
seat to be installed; however, some
impairment. For example, the National
balcony, carport, garage or parking
space is provided, each such area or
people who use wheelchairs have
Center for Health Statistics found a 7.9
percent rate. National Health Interview
space must be accessible. Where
difficulty transferring from a wheelchair
Survey, 1979-80. Based on this data and
kitchens, kitchenettes, wet bars, or
to the seat. The larger shower stall is
the ADA's mandate that the Board
similar amenities are provided, those
more usable. Should at least one of the
areas or features must also be
larger shower stalls be required? If at
provide greater guidance with respect to
accessible. Section 9.2.2(7) contains
least one of the larger shower stalls is
communication accessibility, the Board
technical specification for kitchens,
required, should a fold-up shower seat
has proposed to establish equivalent
kitchenettes, and wet bars and are
be installed to accommodate persons
scoping provisions for persons with
consistent with UFAS and the ANSI
who do not use a wheelchair but need to
mobility impairments and persons with
A117.1 standard for clear floor area,
sit down in the shower? Some people
hearing impairments.
reach ranges, and mounting height.
find shower seats too slippery to use.
Question 44: The requirement that a
Question 45: Some people who use
Should there be a requirement that
percentage of each "class" of sleeping
wheelchairs can transfer from a
shower seats must be slip-resistant?
rooms or suites meet the accessibility
wheelchair to a bed on only one side or
Should the shower control mechanism
requirements is based on the legislative
the other, not both. The Board seeks
be allowed in the center of the long side
history. H. Rept. No. 101-485, pt. 2, at
comments on whether maneuvering
wall as in the 1986 version of the ANSI
118. The Board seeks comments on how
the term "class" should be defined.
space should be required along either
A117.1 standard?
side of a bed to accommodate these
(d) Consistent with UFAS and the
9.2
accessible Units, Sleeping Rooms
individuals? This maneuvering space
ANSI A117.1 standard, section 4.16.4 of
and Suites
can be provided with one space.
the guidelines requires grab bars to be
between two beds.
provided on the long wall beside the
9.2.1 General
Question 46: The Board also seeks
toilet and on the rear wall. This leaves
9.2.2 Minimum Requirements
comments on several issues relating to
one side of the toilet open to permit a
These sections contain the technical
bathrooms:
side transfer from a wheelchair.
specifications for fully accessible units,
(a) Consistent with UFAS and the
However, some people with disabilities
sleeping rooms and suites. Many of the
ANSI A117.1 standard, section 4.20.4 of
who use mobility aids such as a walker.
provisions are consistent with those
the guidelines requires that dual
cane or crutches require grab bars on
recommended by the American Hotel
horizontal grab bars be provided in
both sides of the toilet to assist in
and Motel Association (AHMA) in its
accessible bathtubs. These bars may be
returning to a standing position. A
2318
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
possible way to accommodate these
and extent of services provided may
1985 on "Access to Outdoor
individuals is to provide a movable grab
differ substantially. For this reason. the
Recreational Planning and Design" and
bar on the open side of the toilet. See
Board has addressed these
directs the Board to issue guidelines for
discussion under section 4.17, question
establishments separately.
accessible recreation facilities. H. Rept.
28 for a fuller discussion of movable
Question 48: Section 9.5.1 requires
101-485, pt. 2, at 139. "Access to
grab bars. Should a movable grab bar be
that in new construction all public use
Outdoor Research Planning and Design"
required on the open side of the toilet to
and common use areas must be
addresses access to trails, picnic areas.
provide accommodation for a wider
accessible. At least one of each type of
and campsites. Currently. the Board is
range of persons with disabilities?
amenity in each common area such as
working with the U.S. Forest Service, the
washers. dryers. and similar equipment
National Park Service. and other federal
9.3 Sleeping Room Accommodations
installed for the use of occupants must
agencies with recreation responsibilities
for Persons With Hearing Impairments
be accessible and located on an
in the development of comprehensive
This section specifies the features that
accessible route to any accessible unit
guidelines which will further address
must be provided in units, sleeping
or sleeping accommodation. The Board
such issues as boating access, water\
rooms, or suites required to
seeks comments regarding whether
access at beaches. fishing piers, and
accommodate persons with hearing
these requirements are necessary or
horseback riding, among others. Though
impairments. Visual alarms complying
appropriate in homeless shelters and
these more comprehensive guidelines
with 4.28.4 must be provided. Visual
similar establishments if at least one of
are being developed as part of
notification devices must also be
each type of amenity is available in an
responsibilities under section 504 of the
provided to alert occupants of incoming
accessible common area.
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the
telephone calls and door knocks or
Question 49: The Board has reserved
Architectural Barriers Act of 1968. the
bells. The visual notification device may
section 9.5.2 regarding alterations.
Board believes that requirements for
not be connected to the visual alarm
Unique problems may arise when
privately owned and funded
signal device. If a permanently installed
homeless shelters and similar
recreational facilities. as well as those
telephone is provided, it must be
establishments are placed in existing
covered under Title IL should be
equipped with a volume control.
facilities originally designed for different
consistent where possible with the
Question 47: Both portable and built-
purposes. Such changes of occupancy
guidelines under development. The
in visual alarms and visual notification
may affect the location of services
Board is awaiting the publication of
devices are commercially available.
provided. The Board seeks comment on
these guidelines so that the product of
AHMA recommends that visual alarm
what scoping provisions should apply in
this effort can be considered in the
devices be made available to guests
these situations taking into
development of accessibility guidelines
upon request. The Board seeks
consideration such factors as the needs
for recreation facilities covered by the
information regarding the effectiveness
of the populations served, service
ADA.
and usability of portable devices as
availability, and the significant demand
Question 51: The Board seeks
compared to built-in devices.
for these important and scarce facilities.
information regarding any existing
9.4 Other Sleeping Rooms and Suites
The Board expects to include
standards and technologies with respect
requirements in the-final rule.
to access to recreation facilities, as well
This section implements the
Question 50: The Board has also
as suggestions for facilities that may
legislative history of the ADA which
reserved section 9.5.3 regarding
require additional standards such as
states that, with respect to hotels.
accessible sleeping accommodations
amusement parks, tennis courts,
accessibility includes "requiring all
and is considering requiring five percent
racquetball courts, and gymnasiums.
doors and doorways designed to allow
of sleeping accommodations, but not
passage into and within all hotel rooms
less than one, to be fully accessible and
Swimming Pools
and bathrooms to be sufficiently wide to
an additional two percent to
Question 52: Swimming pools, hot
allow passage by individuals who use
accommodate persons with hearing
tubs, and spas are either public use or
wheelchairs." H. Rept. 101-485, pt. 2, at
impairments. The two percent
còmmon use areas, depending on
118.
requirement is the same as established
whether they are made available to the
9.5 Transient Lodging in Homeless
by the Department of Housing and
general public or for the use of a
Shelters, Halfway Houses, Transient
Urban Development in its regulations
restricted group of people such as
Group Homes, and Other Social
implementing section 504 of the
occupants of a hotel or motel. Many
Services Establishments
Rehabilitation Act of 1973. 24 CFR
state and local building codes, as well
8.22(b). The Board seeks comments on
9.5.2 Alterations (Reserved)
as a variety of recommended guidelines.
this scoping issue and the potential
require some form of accessibility to
9.5.3 Accessible Sleeping
effects on the operation of affected
swimming pools. The means that are
Accommodations (Reserved)
establishments. The Board expects to
generally allowed include ramps, pool
These sections concern homeless
include requirements in the final rule.
lifts (hydraulic, pneumatic or electric).
shelters, halfway houses, transient
10. Transportation Facilities
transfer tiers, raised pool edge coping,
group homes, and other social service
(Reserved)
and movable pool floors. The Board
establishments that provide transient
seeks information regarding the relative
The Board intends to issue a
lodging. The operation of these
usefulness and the costs associated with
establishments is significantly different
supplemental notice of proposed
each of these various means. Is there a
from that of hotels, motels, inns,
rulemaking (SNPRM) with respect to
means of access that is usable by all
boarding houses, dormitories, and
transportation facilities.
persons with mobility impairments? If
resorts. For example, these
Other Issues
not. should more than one system be
establishments have significant
required? Which would provide the
responsibility for serving various
Standards for Recreation
greatest level of accessibility to most
vulnerable populations and persons
The legislative history of the ADA
individuals? If pool lifts are provided,
with disabilities. In addition, the nature
refers to a technical paper developed in
should there be a requirement that they
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2319
be independently operable by an
financial assistance. However, the ADA
value of the building. Should this
individual with a disability?
requirements for newly constructed and
requirement be replaced by one similar
Exercise Equipment
altered State and local government
to that established for alterations to
buildings differ in some aspects from
places of public accommodation and
Question 53: The Board is considering
addressing fixed or built-in exercise
those for places of public
commercial facilities under title III of
equipment and seeks the following
accommodation and commercial
ADA? That requirement would provide
information: How can exercise
facilities. For example, the exceptions
where alterations affect or could affect
for structural impracticability in new
usability of or access to an area of a
equipment be made more accessible?
What accessible equipment is currently
construction and for elevators in newly
facility containing a primary function,
available? What are the costs
constructed or altered facilities that are
the entity shall make the alteration in
associated with modifying existing
less than three stories or have less than
such a manner that, to the maximum
equipment so that it is accessible? Can
3,000 square feet per story do not apply
extent feasible, the path of travel to the
modified equipment also be used by the
to State and local government buildings.
altered area, and the restrooms,
general public?
The Board seeks comments on several
telephones, and drinking fountains
issues relating to State and local
serving the altered area are accessible
Dressing and Fitting Rooms
government buildings for purposes of
to the extent that the costs of these
Question 54: The Board has received
developing its accessibility guidelines.
accessibility features are not
numerous requests for interpretations
Question 56: State and local
disproportionate to the overall
with respect to applying UFAS to
government courthouses are covered by
alterations in terms of cost and scope or
dressing and fitting rooms suggesting
title II of the ADA. The Board requests
determined under criteria established by
that these spaces should be specifically
information on courthouses which
the Attorney General. Title II of the
addressed in the ADA guidelines.
provide access to jury boxes, witness
ADA contains a similar requirement for
Dressing and fitting rooms occur in
stands, and judges' benches. Should the
publicly operated transit facilities but
many different types of buildings and
Board's guidelines cover these features?
not for other State and local government
facilities covered by the ADA, such as
Question 57: State and local
buildings.
health spas, swimming pools, clothing
government detention and correctional
facilities are also covered by title of the
Regulatory Process Matters
stores, x-ray labs and other health care
facilities. For scoping provisions, the
ADA. UFAS section 4.1.4(9)(c) requires
These guidelines are issued to provide
Board is considering requiring that if one
that 5 percent of residential units
guidance to the Department of Justice in
or more dressing or fitting rooms are to
available, but not less than one, must be
establishing accessibility standards for
be provided for the use of general
accessible. The Board seeks comments
new construction and alterations in
public, patients, customers, or
on the experience of detention and
places of public accommodation and
employees, then five percent, but never
correctional facilities in complying with
commercial facilities as required by the
less than one, at each dressing and
this provision. The Board also seeks
ADA. The standards established by the
fitting room location would have to be
comments on other State and local
Department of Justice must be
accessible. For technical specifications.
government buildings which may require
consistent with and may incorporate
the Board is considering applying
particular attention. For example, if a
these guidelines. These guidelines, when
pertinent existing provisions regarding
firehouse has & second story which is
considered together with regulations to
sizes of doors and maneuvering space;
used only for sleeping accommodations
be issued by the Department of Justice,
to use existing anthropometric data to
and does not contain any office space,
meet the criteria for a major rule under
develop provisions for the necessary
should there be an exception from the
Executive Order 12291. The Board has
amenity of a bench; and to incorporate a
requirement for elevators?
prepared a Preliminary Regulatory
provision for slip resistance based on
Question 58: With respect to scoping
Impact Analysis (PRIA) which has been
the results of current research for slip
provisions, should State and local
placed in the docket and is available for
resistance of floors (see, section 4.5 for
government buildings be required to
public inspection at the Board's office.
additional discussion of research). The
provide a higher degree of accessibility
The PRIA includes a summary of state
Board seeks comments and information
than places of public accommodation
accessibility requirements; a qualitative
regarding the appropriateness of
and commercial facilities. For example,
and quantitative discussion of the
including requirements for dressing and
should all entrances to newly
benefits of accessibility; a cost impact
fitting rooms in the ADA guidelines and
constructed State and local government
analysis for certain accessibility
whether the suggested provisions would
buildings be accessible? Should a
elements; and a discussion of the
meet the needs of individuals with
greater number of accessible telephones
regulatory alternatives considered.
disabilities without absorbing too much
and telecommunication display devices
square footage.
or telecommunication devices for the
Question 60: The Board seeks
comments on the approaches and data
deaf (TDDs) be required in State and
State and Local Government Buildings
used to estimate the potential benefits
local government buildings? Should
and costs of the guidelines. In particular.
Question 55: Title II of the ADA
swimming pools operated by State or
the Board is interested in any empirical
covers State and local government
local government entities provide more
buildings. Section 504 of the ADA
than one means of water access, since
data or existing analyses that may shed
requires that the Board also issue
not all means of providing access are
light on these matters. Any such
information, where relevant, will be
accessibility guidelines for these
equally useful for people?
Question 59: In the case of alterations,
incorporated into the Final Regulatory
buildings. Many newly constructed or
UFAS section 4.1.6(3) establishes
Impact Analysis.
altered State and local government
buildings are designed or altered
additional requirements for an
Accessibility does not generally add
consistent with the UFAS under current
accessible route, an accessible entrance,
features to a building or facility but
regulations issued under section 504 of
and accessible toilet facilities when the
rather simply requires that features
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which
total cost of all alterations within any
commonly provided have certain
prohibits discrimination on the basis of
twelve month period amounts to 50
characteristica. Some of the
percent or more of the full and fair cash
characteristics may add marginally to
disability by recipients of federal
2320
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
the cost of an element; however. the cost
the guidelines "supplement the existing
and costs of the guidelines with respect
for installation are not usually
[MGRAD]" on which the current UFAS
to small entities. The ADA includes
increased. In addition, accessibility
is based and "establish additional
provisions which minimize the impact
generally adds little or no space to
requirements, consistent with this Act.
on small entities. For instance. section
buildings and facilities. Several studies
to ensure that buildings [and] facilities
303(b) exempts newly constructed and
discussed in the PRIA have shown that
are accessible, in terms of
altered facilities that are less than three
designing buildings and facilities to be
architecture and design.
and
stories or have less than 3,000 square
accessible, from the conceptual phase
communication, to individuals with
feet per story from the elevator
onward, adds less than 1% to the total
disabilities." The legislative history
requirement unless the building is a
construction costs. For purposes of the
states that the guidelines may not
shopping center, a shopping mall. the
PRIA, the Board analyzed the cost
"reduce, weaken, narrow, or set less
professional office of a health care
impact of accessibility elements which
accessibility standards than those
provider, or another type of facility
had potential of adding to the cost of a
included in existing MGRAD" and
determined by the Attorney General to
building or facility. Included in the
should provide greater guidance in the
require the installation of an elevator
analysis were: area of refuge: parking
area of communication accessibility for
based on usage. Section 303(a)(2)
(signage): curb ramps (detectable
individuals with hearing and visual
requires additional accessibility features
warnings): ramps (handrail extensions
impairments. As mandated by the
to be provided when an entity is
and edge protection): stairs (handrail
statute, the guidelines use MGRAD and
undertaking an alteration that affects or
extensions); detectable warnings;
UFAS as their base or floor. The PRIA
could affect usability of or access to an
elevators (raised characters on hoistway
discusses regulatory alternatives
area of the facility containing a primary
entrances, reopening devices, tactile and
considered for major provisions which
function only to the extent that the
braille control indicators, and audible
go beyond MGRAD and UFAS. These
features are not disproportionate to the
signage for car position): water closets
include provisions for areas of refuge:
overall alterations in terms of cost and
and toilet stalls (grab bars); lavatories
volume controls for public telephones:
scope as determined under criteria
and sinks (insulation of hot water and
telecommunications display devices or
established by the Attorney General.
drain pipes): bath tubs and shower stalls
telecommunication devices for the deaf
Other recently enacted legislation will
(seat, grab bars, and hand-held
(TDDs); detectable warnings; assistive
facilitate compliance by small entities
showers): alarms (visual systems):
listing systems; signage: and automated
with the ADA. As amended in 1990. the
signage (tactile and braille characters):
teller machines (ATMs).
Internal Revenue Code allows a
telephones (volume controls, TDDs and
In addition to the analysis described
deduction of up to $15,000 per year for
TDD signage): assembly areas (assistive
above, the Board is exploring the
expenses associated with the removal of
listening systems); automated teller
benefits of accessibility to all building
qualified architectural and
machines (ATMs) (equipment for
users. For example, steps represent a
transportation barriers. The 1990
persons with visual impairments): and
potential accident site. Their elimination
visual notification devices.
amendment also permits eligible small
would reduce the risk of personal injury
businesses to receive a tax credit for
Unit costs were developed for
and may also mean easier access to
including each of the accessibility
certain costs of compliance with the
buildings for those carrying goods or
elements in newly constructed facilities
ADA. An eligible small business is one
equipment, young children. elderly
and applied to a variety of building
whose gross receipts do not exceed
people, pregnant women. and people
$1,000,000 or whose workforce does not
types differing in both size and type.
pushing carts or baby carriages.
consist of more than 30 full-time
The direct costs by building size and
The Board is also interested in real
type for the accessibility elements are
estate market factors and the impact of
workers. Qualifying businesses may
estimated as follows:
accessibility on the marketability of
claim a credit of up to 50 percent of
space. Commercial real estate agents
eligible access expenditures that exceed
NEW CONSTRUCTION
$250 but do not exceed $10,250.
contacted by the Board have reported it
to be an important factor. The Board
Examples of eligible access
Percent
plans to work with national associations
expenditures include the necessary and
Cost/
of new
Building type
Cost
square
con-
representing real estate professionals
reasonable costs of removing barriers.
feet
struction
and developers to obtain additional
providing auxiliary aids. and acquiring
cost
information on this topic for inclusion in
or modifying equipment or devices.
the Final Regulatory Impact Analysis.
The guidelines do not preempt State
High-rise Office
$88,810
.12
.145
Low-rise Office
21,997
.09
The guidelines considered together
and local regulation of the construction
.14
High-rise Hotel
147,212
.33
.47
with the Department of Justice's
and alteration of places of public
Low-rise Hotel
76,030
.56
.79
regulations may have a significant
accommodation and commercial
Auditorium
12,029
.50
.61
impact on a substantial number of small
facilities. Section 308(b)(1)(A)(ii) of the
Movie Theater
7,750
.65
.92
entities. This impact is required by
ADA permits State and local
section 303 of the ADA which mandates
governments to apply to the Attorney
The PRIA also discusses the indirect
that all new construction and alterations
General for certification that a State or
costs of the accessibility elements such
in places of public accommodations and
local building code meets or exceeds the
as maintenance, operation and
commercial facilities be accessible to
accessibility requirements of the ADA.
opportunity costs. Space allocation and
individuals with disabilities. Because
Accordingly. a Federalism assessment is
re-allocation issues are analyzed with
the Board is required by Section 504 of
not necessary.
respect to maneuvering space in
the ADA to use MGRAD and UFAS as
Finally. the guidelines do not have
corridors; the standard toilet stall versus
the base or floor for the guidelines, a
any significant impact on the
the alternate toilet stall; check-out
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis has not
environment.
aisles; and areas of refuge.
been prepared.
Wherever possible, the Board seeks
Lis of Subjects in 36 CFR Part 1191
As for regulatory alternatives, section
504 of the ADA specifically requires that
empirical data regarding the benefits
Buildings. Civil Rights. Handicapped.
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2321
Authorized by vote of the Board on
November 14 and 29, 1990.
William H. McCabe,
Chairman, Architectural and Transportation
Barriers Compliance Board.
For the reasons set forthi in the
preamble, it is proposed to add part 1191
to title 36 of the Code of Federal
Regulations to read as follows:
PART 1191-AMERICANS WITH
DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)
ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR
BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
Sec
1191.1 Accessibility guidelines.
Appendix to Part 1191-Americans With
Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility
Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities
Authority: Americans With Disabilities Act
of 1990, Pub. L. 101-336, 42 U.S.C. 12204.
§ 1191.1 Accessibility guidelines.
The accessibility guidelines for
buildings and facilities for purposes of
the Americans With Disabilities Act are
found in the appendix to this part. The
guidelines are issued to provide
guidance to the Department of Justice in
establishing accessibility standards to
implement the legislation.
BILLING CODE 8150-01-M
:
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2323
APPENDIX TO PART 1191-AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)
ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
Proposed
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and
Facilities
Approved at the meeting of the Board,
November 14 and 29, 1990
U.S. Architectural & Transportation Barriers Compliance Board
1111 18th Street, N.W., Suite 501
Washington, D.C. 20036-3894
(202) 653-7834 v/TDD
(202) 653-7863 FAX
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2325
ADA ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES
FOR BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. PURPOSE
1
2. GENERAL
1
2.1 Provisions for Adults
1
2.2 Equivalent Facilitation
1
3. MISCELLANEOUS INSTRUCTIONS AND DEFINITIONS.
2
3.1 Graphic Conventions
2
3.2 Dimensional Tolerances
2
3.3 Notes
2
3.4 General Terminology
2
3.5 Definitions
2
4. ACCESSIBLE ELEMENTS AND SPACES:
SCOPE AND TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS.
5
4.1 Minimum Requirements
5
4.1.1 Application
5
4.1.2 Accessible Sites and Exterior Facilities: New Construction
5
4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: New Construction.
7
4.1.4 (Reserved)
9
4.1.5 Accessible Buildings: Additions.
9
4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations.
9
4.1.7 Accessible Buildings: Historic Preservation
11
4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges
12
4.3 Accessible Route
16
4.4 Protruding Objects
19
4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces
21
4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones
22
4.7 Curb Ramps
24
4:8 Ramps
24
4.9 Stairs
27
4.10 Elevators
27
2326
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 Tuesday. January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.11 Platform Lifts
33
4.12 Windows
33
4.13 Doors
33
4.14 Entrances
37
4.15 Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers
37
4.16 Water Closets
37
4.17 Toilet Stalls
38
4.18 Urinals
41
4.19 Lavatories and Mirrors
41
4.20 Bathtubs
42
4.21 Shower Stalls
42
4.22 Toilet Rooms
42
4.23 Bathrooms, Bathing Facilities, and Shower Rooms
44
4.24 Sinks
46
4.25 Storage
46
4.26 Handrails, Grab Bars, and Tub and Shower Seats
47
4.27 Controls and Operating Mechanisms
47
4.28 Alarms
47
4.29 Detectable Warnings
49
4.30 Signage
50
4.31 Telephones
51
4.32 Seating, Tables, and Work Surfaces
51
4.33 Assembly Areas
52
4.34 Automated Teller Machines
54
5. RESTAURANTS AND CAFETERIAS
55
6. MEDICAL CARE FACILITIES
56
7. BUSINESS AND MERCANTILE
56
8. LIBRARIES
57
9. ACCESSIBLE TRANSIENT LODGING
58
10. TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES. (RESERVED)
59
APPENDIX
60
Federal Register / Vol. 56. No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2327
1.
PURPOSE.
2.
GENERAL.
This document sets guidelines for accessibility
2.1 Provisions for Adults. The specifica-
to places of public accommodation and commer-
tions in these guidelines are based upon adult
cial facilities by individuals with disabilities.
dimensions and anthropometrics.
These guidelines are to be applied during the
design. construction. and alteration of such
2.2 Equivalent facilitation. Departures
buildings and facilities to the extent required by
from particular technical and scoping require-
Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of
ments of this guideline by the use of other
1990.
methods are permitted where the alternative
methods used will provide substantially equiva-
The technical specifications 4.2 through 4.34, of
lent or greater access to and usability of the
these guidelines are the same as those of the
facility. Alternative methods shall permit individ-
American National Standard Institute's docu-
uals with disabilities to approach. enter, and
ment A117.1-1980. except as noted in this text
use a site, building, facility. or portion thereof
and on figures by italics. However, sections
as easily. safely, conveniently. and indepen-
4.1.1 through 4.1.7 and sections 5 through 10
dently as the specified method would permit.
are different from ANSI A117.1 in their entirety
and are printed in standard type.
The illustrations and text of ANSI A117.1 are re-
produced with permission from the American
National Standards Institute. Copies of the
standard may be purchased, from the American
National Standards Institute at 1430 Broad-
way. New York. New York 10018.
Table 1
Graphic Conventions
Convention
Description
Typical dimension line showing U.S. customary units
36
(in inches) above the line and SI units (in millimeters)
915
below
Dimensions for short distances indicated on
9
extended line
230
Dimension line showing alternate dimensions
9
36
230
915
required
Direction of approach
Maximum
max
Minimum
min
Boundary of clear floor area
&
Centerline
1
2328
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
3.4 General Terminology
including those affecting mobility. sensory, or
3.
MISCELLANEOUS
cognitive functions.
INSTRUCTIONS
Accessible Element. An element specified by
AND DEFINITIONS.
these guidelines (for example, telephone, con-
trols, and the like).
3.1 Graphic Conventions. Graphic con-
Accessible Route. A continuous unobstructed
ventions are shown in Table 1. Dimensions
path connecting all accessible elements and
that are not marked "minimum" or "maxi-
spaces in a building or facility. Interior accessi-
mum" are absolute, unless otherwise indicated
ble routes may include corridors, floors,
in the text or captions.
ramps, elevators, lifts, and clear floor space at
fixtures. Exterior accessible routes may in-
3.2 Dimensional Tolerances. All di-
clude parking access aisles, curb ramps,
mensions are subject to conventional building
crosswalks at vehicular ways, walks, ramps.
industry tolerances for field conditions.
and lifts.
3.3 Notes. The text of these guidelines does
Accessible Space. Space that complies with
not contain notes or footnotes. Additional in-
these guidelines.
formation, explanations, and advisory
materials are located in the Appendix. Para-
Adaptability. The ability of certain building
graphs marked with an asterisk have related,
spaces and elements, such as kitchen count-
nonmandatory material in the Appendix. In
ers, sinks, and grab bars, to be added or
the Appendix, the corresponding paragraph
altered so as to accommodate the needs of tndi-
numbers are preceded by an A.
viduals with or without disabilities or to
accommodate the needs of persons with differ-
3.4 General Terminology.
ent types or degrees of disability.
comply with. Meet one or more specifications
Addition. An expansion, extension, or increase
of these guidelines.
in the gross floor area of a building or facility.
if, if then. Denotes a specification that ap-
Administrative Authority. A governmental
plies only when the conditions described are
agency that adopts or enforces regulations and
present.
guidelines for the design. construction. or alter-
ation of buildings and facilities.
may. Denotes an option or alternative.
Alteration. An alteration is a change to a build-
shall. Denotes a mandatory specification or re-
ing or facility made by, on behalf of, or for the
quirement.
use of a public accommodation or commercial
facility. that affects or could affect the usability
should. Denotes an advisory specification or
of the building or facility or part thereof.
recommendation.
Alterations include, but are not limited to,
remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, recon-
3.5 Definitions.
struction, historic restoration, changes or
rearrangement of the structural parts or
Access Aisle. An accessible pedestrian space
elements, and changes or rearrangement in the
between elements, such as parking spaces,
plan configuration of walls and partitions.
seating, and desks. that provides clearances
Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting or
appropriate for use of the elements.
wallpapering, or changes to mechanical and
electrical systems are not alterations unless
Accessible. Describes a site, building, facility.
they affect the usability of the building or
or portion thereof that complies with these
facility.
guidelines and that can be approached, en-
tered, and used by individuals with disabilities
Area of Refuge. An area, which has direct
access to an exit statrway, where people who
2
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2329
3.5 Definitions
are unable to use stairs may remain safely to
or other elements to warn visually impaired
await further instructions or assistance during
people of hazards on a circulation path.
emergency evacuation
Dwelling Unit. A single unit which provides a
Assembly Area. A room or space accommodat-
kitchen or food preparation area, in addition
ing a group of individuals for recreational,
to rooms and spaces for living. bathing, sleep-
educational, political, social, or amusement
ing. and the like. A single family home used as
purposes, or for the consumption of food and
a transient group home is a dwelling unit, and
drink.
dwelling units are to be found in such housing
types as townhouses or apartment buildings
Automatic Door. A door equipped with a
used as shelters, and some hotels. For pur-
power-operated mechanism and controls that
poses of these guidelines, use of the term
open and close the door automatically upon re-
"Dwelling Unit" does not imply the unit is used
ceipt of a momentary actuating signal. The
as a residence.
switch that begins the automatic cycle may be
a photoelectric device. floor mat, or manual
Egress, Means of. A continuous and unob-
switch (see power-assisted door).
structed way of exit travel from any point tn a
building or facility to a public way. A means of
Building. Any structure used and intended for
egress comprises vertical and hortzontal travel
supporting or sheltering any use or occu-
and may include intervening room spaces, door-
pancy.
ways, hallways, corridors, passageways,
balconies, ramps, stairs, enclosures, lobbies, es-
Circulation Path. An exterior or interior way
calators, horizontal exits, courts and yards. An
of passage from one place to another for pedes-
accessible means of egress is one that complies
trians, including. but not limited to, walks.
with these guidelines and does not include
hallways, courtyards, stairways, and stair
stairs, steps, or escalators. An area of refuge or
landings.
evacuation elevators may be included as part
of an accessible means of egress.
Clear. Unobstructed.
Element. An architectural or mechanical com-
Clear Floor Space. The minimum unob-
ponent of a building, facility. space, or site.
structed floor or ground space required to
e.g., telephone, curb ramp. door, drinking foun-
accommodate a single. stationary wheelchatr
tain, seating, or water closet.
occupant.
Entrance. Any access point to a building or
Closed Circuit Telephone. A telephone with
portion of building or facility used for the pur-
dedicated line(s) such as a house phone, cour-
pose of entering. An entrance includes the
tesy phone or phone that must be used to gain
approach walk, the vertical access leading to
entrance to a facility.
the entrance platform, the entrance platform it-
self. vestibules If provided, the entry door(s) or
Common Use. Refers to those interior and ex-
gate(s). and the hardware of the entry door(s)
terior rooms, spaces, or elements that are
or gate(s). A principal entrance of a building or
made available for the use of a restricted
facility is one through which a significant num-
group of people (for example, occupants of a
ber of people enter.
homeless shelter, the occupants of an office
building. or the guests of such occupants).
Facility. All or any portion of buildings, struc-
tures, site improvements, complexes,
Cross Slope. The slope that is perpendicular
equipment, roads, walks, passageways, park-
to the direction of travel (see running slope).
ing lots, or other real or personal property
located on a site.
Curb Ramp. A short ramp cutting through a
curb or built up to it.
Ground Floor. Any occupiable floor less than
one story above or below grade with direct ac-
Detectable Warning. A standardized surface
cess to grade. A building or facility always has
feature built tn or applied to walking surfaces
at least one ground floor and may have more
than one ground, floor as where a split level en-
3
2330
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
3.5 Definitions
trance has been provided or where a building
Service Entrance. An entrance intended pri-
is built into a hillside.
marily for delivery of goods or services.
Individual With a Disability. An individual
Signage. Displayed verbal, symbolic, tactile,
who has a physical impairment, including a mo-
and pictorial information.
bility. sensory, or cognitive impairment, which
results in a functional limitation in access to
Site. A parcel of land bounded by a property
and use of a building or facility.
line or a designated portion of a public right-of-
way.
Mezzanine or Mezzanine Floor. That portion
of a story which is an intermediate floor level
Site Improvement. Landscaping, paving for
placed within the story and having occupiable
pedestrian and vehicular ways, outdoor light-
space above and below tts floor.
ing. recreational facilities, and the like. added
to a site.
Marked Crossing. A crosswalk or other identi-
fied path intended for pedestrian use in
Sleeping Accommodations. Rooms in which
crossing a vehicular way.
people sleep: for example, dormitory and hotel
or motel guest rooms or suites.
Multifamily Dwelling. Any building contain-
ing more than two dwelling units.
Space. A definable area, e.g., room, toilet
room, hall, assembly area, entrance, storage
Occupiable. A room or enclosed space de-
room, alcove, courtyard, or lobby.
signed for human occupancy in which
individuals congregate for amusement, educa-
Story. That portion of a building included be-
tional or similar purposes, or in which
tween the upper surface of a floor and upper
occupants are engaged at labor, and which is
surface of the floor or roof next above. If such
equipped with means of egress, light, and venti-
portion of a building does not include occupt-
lation.
able space, It is not considered a story for
purposes of these guidelines. There may be
Operable Part. A part of a piece of equipment
more than one floor level within a story as in
or appliance used to insert or withdraw ob-
the case of a mezzantne or mezzanines.
jects, or to activate, deactivate, or adjust the
equipment or appliance (for example, coin slot,
Tactile. Describes an object that can be per-
pushbutton, handle).
ceived using the sense of touch.
Path of Travel. (Reserved).
Technically Infeasible. Means, with respect
to an alteration, that it has little likelihood of
Power-assisted Door. A door used for human
being accomplished because existing structural
passage with a mechanism that helps to open
conditions would require removing or altering a
the door, or relieve the opening resistance of a
load-bearing member or because site con-
door, upon the activation of a switch or a con-
straints prohibit modification or addition of
tinued force applied to the door itself.
elements, spaces, or features necessary to pro-
accessibility.
Public Use. Describes interior or exterior
rooms or spaces that are made available to the
Telecommunication Display Device or Tele-
general public. Public use may be provided at a
communication Device for the Deaf (TDD). A
building or facility that is privately or publicly
telecommunications display device, also known
owned.
as a telecommunications device for the deaf.
employs graphic (i.e., written) communications
Ramp. A walking surface which has a running
through the transmission of coded signals
slope greater than 1:20.
across the standard telephone network.
Running Slope. The slope that is parallel to
Transient Lodging. A building, facility. or por-
the direction of travel (see cross slope).
tion thereof, excluding inpatient medical care
factlities, that contains one or more dwelling
units or sleeping accommodations. Transtent
4
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2331
4.1 Minimum Requirements
lodging may include, but is not limited to, re-
(4) Temporary Structures. These guidelines
sorts, group homes, hotels, motels, and
cover temporary buildings or facilities as well
dormitories.
as permanent facilities. Temporary buildings
and facilities are not of permanent construc-
Vehicular Way. A route intended for vehicular
tion but are extensively used or are essential
traffic. such as a street. driveway. or parking lot.
for public use for a period of time. Examples of
temporary buildings or facilities covered by
Walk. An exterior pathway with a prepared
these guidelines include. but are not limited
surface intended for pedestrian use. including
to: reviewing stands. temporary classrooms,
general pedestrian areas such as plazas and
bleacher areas, exhibit areas, temporary bank-
courts.
ing facilities, temporary health screening
services. or temporary safe pedestrian passage-
NOTE: Sections 4.1.1 through 4.1.7 are differ-
ways around a construction site. Structures,
ent from ANSI A117.1 in their entirety and are
sites and equipment directly associated with
printed in standard type.
the actual processes of major construction.
such as scaffolding. bridging, or materials
hoists are not included.
4.
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENTS
AND SPACES: SCOPE
(5) General Exceptions.
AND TECHNICAL
(a) In new construction. a person or entity
REQUIREMENTS
is not required to meet fully the requirements
of these guidelines where that person or entity
can demonstrate that It is structurally imprac-
4.1 Minimum Requirements
ticable to do so. Full compliance will be
considered structurally impracticable only in
4.1.1 Application.
those rare circumstances when the unique
characteristics of terrain prevent the incorpora-
(1) General. All areas of buildings and
tion of accessibility features.
facilities shall comply with these guidelines.
4.1 through 4.34, unless otherwise provided in
(b) Accessibility is not required to elevator
this section or as modified in a special applica-
pits. elevator penthouses, piping or equipment
tion section.
catwalks. and lookout galleries.
(2) Application Based on Building Use.
4.1.2 Accessible Sites and Exterior
Special application sections 5 through 9
Facilities: New Construction. An accessible
provide additional requirements for restau-
site shall meet the following minimum
rants and cafeterias, medical care facilities,
requirements:
business and mercantile. libraries. and acces-
sible transient lodging. When a building or
(1) At least one accessible route complying
facility contains more than one use covered by
with 4.3 shall be provided within the bound-
a special application section. each portion
ary of the site from public transportation
shall comply with the requirements for that
stops, accessible parking spaces, passenger
use.
loading zones If provided. and public streets or
sidewalks to an accessible building entrance.
(3) Areas Used Only by Employees as a Work-
station. Areas that contain work stations that
(2) At least one accessible route complying
may be used by employees with disabilities
with 4.3 shall connect accessible buildings,
shall be designed and constructed so that Indi-
accessible facilities. accessible elements, and
viduals with disabilities can approach. enter.
accessible spaces that are on the same site.
and exit the areas. These guidelines do not re-
quire that all individual work stations be
(3) All objects that protrude from surfaces or
constructed or equipped (e.g., with racks or
posts into circulation paths shall comply with
shelves) to be accessible.
4.4.
5
2332
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.1.2 Accessible Sites and Exterior Facilities: New Construction
(4) Ground surfaces along accessible routes
(e) At facilities providing medical services,
and in accessible spaces shall comply with 4.5.
parking spaces complying with 4.6 shall be
provided in accordance with 4.1.1(5)(a) except
(5) (a) If parking spaces are provided for em-
as follows:
ployees or visitors, or both, then accessible
spaces complying with 4.6 shall be provided in
(i) Outpatient facilities: 10 percent of the
each such parking area, as close as practicable
total number of parking spaces provided;
to an accessible entrance in conformance with
the following table:
(ii) Facilities that specialize in treatment
or services for persons with mobility impair-
Required
ments, employee and visitor parking: 20
Total Parking
Minimum Number
percent of the total number of parking spaces
in Lot
of Accessible Spaces
provided.
1 to 25
1
26 to 50
2
(6) If toilet facilities are provided on a site,
51 to 75
3
then each such public or common use toilet fa-
76 to 100
4
cility shall comply with 4.22. If bathing
101 to 150
5
facilities are provided on a site, then each
151 to 200
6
such public or common use bathing facility
201 to 300
7
shall comply with 4.23.
301 to 400
8
401 to 500
9
EXCEPTION: For single user portable toilet or
501 to 1000
a
1001 and over
b
bathing units clustered at a single location, at
least one toilet unit complying with 4.22 or at
least one bathing unit complying with 4.23
a 2 percent of total.
should be installed at each location whenever
b 20 plus 1 for each 100 over 1000.
typical inaccessible units are provided. Accessi-
ble units shall be identified by the
EXCEPTION: If greater accessibility is
International Symbol of Accessibility.
achieved, the total number of accessible park-
ing spaces may be distributed among parking
(7) All signs shall comply with 4.30.2. 4.30.3,
lots.
and 4.30.5. Signage identifying buildings and
facilities and permanent identification of
(b) If passenger loading zones are provided:
rooms or spaces (e.g., toilet facilities) shall also
then at least one passenger loading zone shall
comply with 4.30.4 and 4.30.6. Elements and
comply with 4.6.5.
spaces of accessible facilities which shall be
identified by the International Symbol of Acces-
(c) Parking spaces for side lift vans are
sibility and comply with 4.30.7 are:
accessible parking spaces and may be used to
meet the requirements of this paragraph.
(a) Parking spaces designated as reserved
for individuals with disabilities;
(d) Parking spaces at transient lodging
complying with 4.6 shall be provided in accor-
(b) Accessible passenger loading zones;
dance with the following:
(c) Accessible entrances when not all are
(i) Where parking is provided for all
accessible (inaccessible entrances shall have
occupants, one accessible parking space shall
directional signage to indicate the route to the
be provided for each accessible unit or sleep-
nearest accessible entrance):
ing room; and
(d) Accessible toilet and bathing facilities
(ii) Where parking is provided for visitors,
where not all are accessible.
2 percent of the spaces, or at least one, shall
be accessible.
6
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2333
4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: New Construction
4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: New
EXCEPTION: Accessible ramps complying
Construction. Accessible buildings and facil-
with 4.8 or, if no other alternative is feasible.
ities shall meet the following minimum
accessible platform lifts complying with 4.11 of
requirements:
this guideline and other applicable local regu-
lations may be used in lieu of an elevator.
(1) At least one accessible route complying
with 4.3 shall connect accessible building or
(6) Windows: If operable windows are
facility entrances with all accessible spaces
provided, they shall comply with 4.12.
and elements within the building or facility.
(7) Doors:
(2) All objects that overhang or protrude into
circulation paths shall comply with 4.4.
(a) At each accessible entrance to a building
or facility. at least one door shall comply with
(3) Ground and floor surfaces along accessible
4.13.
routes and in accessible rooms and spaces
shall comply with 4.5.
(b) Within a building or facility. at least one
door at each accessible space shall comply
(4) Stairs connecting levels that are not con-
with 4.13.
nected by an elevator shall comply with 4.9.
(c) Each door that is an element of an
(5) One passenger elevator complying with
accessible route shall comply with 4.13.
4.10 shall serve each level. including mezza-
nines, in all multi-story buildings and facilities
(d) Each door required by 4.3.10, Egress.
unless exempted below. If more than one eleva-
shall comply with 4.13.
tor is provided. each elevator shall comply
with 4.10.
(8) At least one principal entrance at each
ground floor level to a building or facility shall
EXCEPTION: Elevators are not required In fa-
comply with 4.14, Entrances. When a building
cilities that are less than three stories or that
or facility has entrances which normally serve
have less than 3000 square feet per story un-
any of the following functions: transportation
less the building is a shopping center. a
facilities. passenger loading zones, accessible
shopping mall. or the professional office of a
parking facilities, taxi stands, public streets
health care provider. or another type of facility
and sidewalks, or accessible interior vertical
as determined by the Attorney General. The el-
access, then at least one of the entrances serv-
evator exemption set forth in this paragraph
ing each such function shall comply with 4.14,
does not obviate or limit in any way the obliga-
Entrances. Because entrances also serve as
tion to comply with the other accessibility
emergency exits. whose proximity to all parts
requirements established in section 4.1.3. For
of buildings and facilities is essential. It is pref-
example, floors above or below the accessible
erable that all or most entrances be accessible.
ground floor must meet the requirements of
this section except for elevator service. If toilet
(9) In multiple-story buildings and facilities
or bathing facilities are provided on a level not
where at-grade egress from each floor is impos-
served by an elevator, then toilet or bathing fa-
sible, either of the following is required: the
cilities must be provided on the accessible
provision within each story of approved fire
ground floor. If a building or facility Is eligible
and smoke partitions that create horizontal
for this exemption but the building or facility
exits; or the provision within each floor of
nonetheless has an elevator. that elevator
areas of refuge complying with 4.3.11 and ap-
shall-meet the requirements of 4.10 and shall
proved by agencies having authority for safety.
serve each level in the building.
Areas of refuge shall be provided on each floor
level in a number equal to that for required
EXCEPTION: Elevator pits. elevator pent-
exits.
houses, mechanical rooms. piping or
equipment catwalks are exempted from this
(10) If drinking fountains or water coolers are
requirement.
provided. approximately 50 percent of those
provided on each floor shall comply with 4.15
7
2334
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.1.3 Accessible Buildings: New Construction
and shall be on an accessible route. If only
and space signage, such as current occupant's
one drinking fountain or water cooler is pro-
name, provided the permanent room or space
vided on any floor, It shall comply with 4.15.
identification, such as room number, "MEN,"
or "EXIT," complies with 4.30.4 and 4.30.6.
(11) Toilet Facilities: If toilet facilities are pro-
vided. then each public and common use toilet
(17) Public telephones:
room shall comply with 4.22. Other toilet
rooms shall be adaptable. If bathing facilities
(a) If public pay telephones. public closed
are provided, then each public and common
circuit telephones, or other public telephones
use bathroom shall comply with 4.23. Accessi-
are provided, then they shall comply with
ble toilet rooms and bathing facilities shall be
4.31, Telephones, to the extent required by the
on an accessible route.
following table:
(12) Storage, Shelving and Display Units:
Number of each type
Number of telephones
of telephone provided on
required to be
(a) If fixed or built-in storage facilities such
each floor
accessible
as cabinets, shelves, closets, and drawers are
1 or more single unit
provided in accessible spaces, at least one of
} per floor
installations
each type provided shall contain storage space
complying with 4.25. Additional storage may
1 bankᵇ
] per floor
be provided outside of the dimensions shown
in Fig. 38.
2 or more banksᵇ
1 per bank. Accessible
unit may be installed as
(b) Shelves or display units allowing self-ser-
a single unit in proximity
vice by customers in mercantile occupancies
(either visible or with
shall be located on an accessible route
signage) to the bank. At
least one public telephone
complying with 4.3.
per floor shall meet the
requirements for a
(13) Controls and operating mechanisms in
forward reach telephone.
accessible spaces, along accessible routes. or
as parts of accessible elements (for example,
a Additional public telephones may be in-
light switches and dispenser controls) shall
stalled at any height. Unless otherwise
comply with 4.27.
specified, accessible telephones may be either
forward or side reach telephones.
(14) If emergency warning systems are pro-
vided, then they shall include both audible
b A bank consists of two or more adjacent pub-
alarms and visual alarms complying with
lic telephones, often installed as a unit.
4.28. Sleeping accommodations required to
comply with 9.3 shall have an alarm system
c EXCEPTION: For exterior installations only.
complying with 4.28. Emergency warning sys-
if dial tone first service is not available, then a
tems in medical care facilities may be modified
side reach telephone may be installed instead
to suit standard health care alarm design prac-
of the required forward reach telephone (i.e.,
tice.
one telephone in proximity to each bank shall
comply with 4.31).
(15) Detectable warnings shall be provided at
hazardous conditions as specified in 4.29.
(b) All telephones required to be accessible
and complying with 4.31 shall be equipped
(16) If signs are provided. they shall comply
with a volume control. In addition, 25 percent.
with 4.30.2, 4.30.3, 4.30.5 and 4.30.8. In addi-
but never less than one, of all other public tele-
tion, signage that provides permanent
phones provided shall be equipped with a
identification of rooms and spaces shall also
volume control and shall be dispersed among
comply with 4.30.4 and 4.30.6.
all types of public telephones. including closed
circuit telephones, throughout the building or
EXCEPTION: The provisions of 4.30.4 are not
facility. The installation of additional volume
mandatory for temporary information on room
controls is encouraged and these may be in-
stalled on any public telephone provided.
8
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2335
4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations
Signage complying with applicable provisions
listening system shall be provided. The mini-
of 4,30.7 shall be provided.
mum number of receivers to be provided shall
be equal to 4 percent of the total number of
(c) In addition to the requirements of (a) and
seats, but in no case less than two. Signage
(b) above, If public pay telephones are pro-
complying with 4.30 shall be installed to notify
vided in a building or facility that has a total
patrons of the availability of a listening system.
of six or more public pay telephones. at least
one public pay telephone shall be equipped
(20) Where automated teller machines are
with a TDD. A public TDD shall be located on
provided. at least one machine shall comply
an accessible route complying with 4.3 and
with the requirements of 4.34.
shall be provided with signage complying with
4.30.7.
EXCEPTION: Drive-up-only automated teller
machines are not required to comply with
(18) If fixed or built-in seating or tables are
4.34.2 and 4.34.3.
provided in accessible spaces, at least 5 per-
cent. but always at least one, of the fixed or
4.1.4 (Reserved).
built-in seating spaces or tables shall comply
with 4.32. An accessible route shall lead to
4.1.5 Accessible Buildings: Additions.
and through such fixed or built-in seating. ta-
Each addition to an existing building or facil-
bles or work surfaces.
ity shall be regarded as an alteration and shall
comply with 4.1.1 to 4.1.3 and 4.1.6 of 4.1,
(19) Assembly areas:
Minimum Requirements, and the applicable
technical specifications of 4.2 through 4.34
(a) If places of assembly are provided. they
and sections 5 through 9.
shall comply with the following table:
4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations.
Capacity of
Number of
Seating in
Required Wheelchair
(1) General. Alterations to existing buildings
Assembly Areas
Locations
and facilities shall comply with the following:
50 to 75
3
(a) No alteration which decreases or has the
76 to 100
4
effect of decreasing accessibility or usability of
101 to 150
5
a building or facility may be undertaken.
151 to 200
6
201. to 300
7
(b) If existing elements, spaces, or common
301 to 400
8
areas are altered, then each such altered ele-
401 to 500
9
ment, space. feature, or area shall comply
501 to 1000
a
over 1000
b
with the applicable provisions of 4.1.1 to 4.1.3
of 4.1, Minimum Requirements (for New Con-
struction).
a 2 percent of total
b
20 plus 1 for each 100 over 1000
(c) If an escalator or stair is planned or in-
stalled where none existed previously and
(b) This paragraph applies to indoor
major structural modifications are necessary
assembly areas where audible communica-
for such installation, then a means of accessi-
tions are integral to the use of the space (e.g.,
ble vertical access shall be provided that
concert halls, theaters. meeting rooms, etc.).
complies with the applicable provisions of 4.7.
Such assembly areas. If they accommodate 50
4.8, 4.10, or 4.11.
or more persons, or if they have audio-amplifi-
cation systems, or if they are used regularly as
(d) If alterations of single elements, when
meeting or conference rooms, shall have a
considered together, amount to an alteration
permanently installed assistive listening sys-
of a room or space in a building or facility. the
tem complying with 4.33. For other assembly
entire space shall be made accessible.
areas, a permanently installed assistive listen-
ing system. or wiring for a portable assistive
9
2336
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations
(e) No alteration of an existing element.
requirements of 4.1.6(1), an alteration that af-
space, or area of a building or facility shall im-
fects or could affect the usability of or access
pose a requirement for greater accessibility
to an area containing a primary function shall
than that which would be required for new
be made so as to ensure that, to the maximum
construction. For example, if the elevators and
extent feasible, the path of travel to the altered
stairs in a building are being altered and the
area and the restrooms, telephones, and drink-
elevators are, in turn, being made accessible,
ing fountains serving the altered area, are
then no accessibility modifications are re-
readily accessible to and usable by individuals
quired to the stairs connecting levels
with disabilities, unless such alterations are
connected by the elevator. If stair modifica-
disproportionate to the overall alterations in
tions to correct unsafe conditions are required
terms of cost and scope (as determined under
by other codes, the modifications shall be
criteria established by the Attorney General).
done in compliance with these guidelines un-
less technically infeasible.
(3) Special Technical Provisions for Alterations
to Existing Buildings and Facilities:
(f) If the alteration work is limited solely to
the electrical, mechanical, or plumbing sys-
(a) Ramps: Curb ramps and interior or
tem, or to asbestos removal, and does not
exterior ramps to be constructed on sites or in
involve the alteration of any elements or
existing buildings or facilities where space limi-
spaces required to be accessible under these
tations prohibit the use of a 1:12 slope or less
guidelines, then 4.1.6(2) does not apply.
may have slopes and rises as follows:
(g) EXCEPTION: In alteration work, if
(i) A slope between 1:10 and 1:12 is
compliance is technically infeasible, the alter-
allowed for a maximum rise of 6 inches.
ation shall provide accessibility to the
maximum extent feasible. Any elements or fea-
(ii) A slope between 1:8 and 1:10 is
tures of the building or facility that can be
allowed for a maximum rise of 3 inches.
made accessible shall be made accessible.
A slope steeper than 1:8 is not allowed.
(h) EXCEPTION:
(b) Stairs: Full extension of handrails at
(i) These guidelines do not require the
stairs shall not be required in alterations
installation of an elevator in an altered facility
where such extensions would be hazardous or
that is less than three stories or has less than
impossible due to plan configuration.
3,000 square feet per story unless the building
is a shopping center, a shopping mall, the pro-
(c) Elevators:
fessional office of a health care provider. or
another type of facility as determined by the
(1) If safety door edges are provided in
Attorney General.
existing automatic elevators, automatic door
reopening devices may be omitted (see 4.10.6).
(ii) The exemption provided in paragraph
(i) does not obviate or limit in any way the obli-
(ii) Where existing shaft configuration or
gation to comply with the other accessibility
technical infeasibility prohibits strict compli-
requirements established in these guidelines.
ance with 4.10.9, the minimum.car plan
For example. alterations to floors above or
dimensions may be reduced by the minimum
below the ground floor must be accessible re-
amount necessary, but in no case shall the in-
gardless of whether the altered facility has an
side car dimensions be less than 48 in by 48
elevator. If a facility subject to the elevator ex-
in.
emption set forth in paragraph (i) nonetheless
has an elevator, that elevator shall meet. to
(d) Doors:
the maximum extent feasible, the accessibility
requirements of these guidelines.
(1) Where it is technically infeasible to
comply with clear opening width requirements
(2) Alterations to an Area Containing a Pri-
of 4.13.5, a projection of 5/8 in maximum will
mary Function: In addition to the
be permitted for the latch side stop.
10
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2337
4.1.7 Accessible Buildings: Historic Preservation
(ii) If existing thresholds are 3/4 in high
(ii) Where it is technically infeasible to
or less, and have (or are modified to have) a
alter all performing areas to be on an accessi-
beveled edge on each side. they may remain.
ble route, at least one of each type of
performing area shall be made accessible.
(e) Toilet Rooms:
4.1.7 Accessible Buildings: Historic
(i) Where it is technically infeasible to
Preservation.
comply with 4.22 and 4.23. the installation of
at least one unisex tollet per floor, located in
(1) Applicability.
the same area as existing toilet facilities, will
be permitted in lieu of modifying existing toilet
(a) As a general rule. the accessibility provis-
facilities to be accessible. Each unisex toilet
ions of part 4 shall be applied to alterations to
room shall contain one water closet complying
"qualified" historic buildings and facilities.
with 4.16 and one lavatory complying with
"Qualified" buildings or facilities are those
4.19, and the door shall have a privacy latch.
buildings and facilities that are eligible for list-
ing in the National Register of Historic Places,
(II) Where it is technically Infeasible to
or such properties designated as historic
install a required standard stall, or where
under a statute of the appropriate state or
other codes prohibit reduction of the fixture
local government body. Comments of the Advi-
count (i.e., removal of a water closet in order
sory Council on Historic Preservation shall be
to create a double-wide stall), either alternate
obtained when required by Section 106 of the
stall (Fig.30(b)) may be provided in lieu of the
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as
standard stall.
amended, 16 U.S.C. 470 and 36 CFR Part
800, before any alteration to a qualified his-
(f) Signage:
toric building is undertaken.
(i) Where It is technically infeasible to
(b) The Advisory Council shall determine, on
comply with 4.1.3(7) but an entrance (or
a case-by-case basis, whether provisions re-
entrances) other than a principal entrance is
quired by part 4 for accessible routes (exterior
made accessible, appropriate accessible sign-
and interior), ramps, entrances, toilets, park-
age indicating the location of the nearest
ing. and displays and signage, would threaten
accessible entrance(s) shall be installed at or
or destroy the historic significance of the build-
nearthe inaccessible entrance such that a per-
ing or facility.
son with disabilities will not be required to
retrace the approach route from the inaccessi-
(c) If the Advisory Council determines that
ble entrance.
any of the accessibility requirements for fea-
tures listed in 4.1.7(1) would threaten or
(ii) When inaccessible toilet or bathing
destroy the historic significance of a building
facilities are allowed to remain in an existing
or facility. then the special application provis-
building or facility. signage complying with
ions of 4.1.7(2) for that feature may be
4.30, except for 4.30.4, shall be provided indi-
utilized. The special application provisions
cating the location of the nearest accessible
listed under 4.1.7(2) may only be utilized fol-
tollet or bathing facility.
lowing a written determination by the Advisory
Council that application of a requirement con-
(g) Assembly Areas:
tained in part 4 would threaten or destroy the
historic integrity of a qualified building or facil-
(i) Where it is technically infeasible to
ity.
disperse accessible seating throughout an al-
tered assembly area, accessible seating areas
(2) Historic Preservation: Minimum
may be clustered. Each accessible seating
Requirements.
area shall have provisions for companion seat-
mg and shall be located on an accessible route
(a) At least one accessible route complying
that also serves as a means of emergency
with 4.3 from a site access point to an accessi-
egress.
ble entrance shall be provided.
11
2338
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges
EXCEPTION: A ramp with a slope no greater
(e) Displays and written information, docu-
than 1:6 for a run not to exceed 2 ft (610 mm)
ments, etc., shall be located where they can be
may be used as part of an accessible route at
seen by a seated person. Exhibits and signage
an entrance.
displayed horizontally (e.g., open books). shall
be no higher than 44 in (1120 mm) above the
(b) At least one accessible entrance which is
floor surface.
used by the public complying with 4.14 shall
be provided.
NOTE: The technical provisions of sections 4.2
through 4.34 are the same as those of the
EXCEPTION: If it is determined that no en-
American National Standard Institutes' docu-
trance used by the public can comply with
ment A117.1 - 1980, except as noted in the
4.14, then access at any entrance not used by
text and on figures in italics.
the general public but open (unlocked) with di-
rectional signage at the primary entrance may
4.2 Space Allowance and Reach
be used.
Ranges
(c) If tollets are provided. then at least one
4.2.1* Wheelchair Passage Width. The
toilet facility complying with 4.22 and 4.1.6
minimum clear width for single wheelchair
shall be provided along an accessible route
passage shall be 32 in (815 mm) at a point
that complies with 4.3. Such tollet facility may
and 36 in (915 mm) continuously (see Fig. 1
be unisex in design.
and 24(e)).
(d) Accessible routes from an accessible en-
4.2.2 Width for Wheelchair Passing. The
trance to all publicly used spaces on at least
the level of the accessible entrance shall be
minimum width for two wheelchairs to pass is
60 in (1525 mm) (see Fig. 2).
provided. Access shall be provided to all levels
of a building or facility in compliance with 4.1
whenever practical.
32 min
815
24 max distance
for min clearance
36 min
60 min
915
1525
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Minimum Clear Width
Minimum Clear Width
for Single Wheelchair
for Two Wheelchairs
12
Federal Register / Vol. 56. No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2339
4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges
12 min
36 min
12 min
915
60 min
1525
60 min
1525
36 min
915
60 min
1525
(a)
(b)
60-in (1525-mm)-Diameter Space
T-Shaped Space for 180' Tums
Fig. 3
Wheelchair Turning Space
4.2.3* Wheelchair Turning Space. The
located in an alcove or otherwise confined on
space required for a wheelchair to make a 180-
all or part of three sides. additional maneuver-
degree turn is a clear space of 60 in (1525
ing clearances shall be provided as shown In
mm) diameter (see Fig. 3(a)) or a T-shaped
Fig: 4(d) and (e).
space (see Fig. 3(b)).
4.2.4.3 Surfaces for Wheelchair Spaces.
4.2.4* Clear Floor or Ground Space for
Clear floor or ground spaces for wheelchairs
Wheelchairs.
shall comply with 4.5.
4.2.4.1 Size and Approach. The minimum
4.2.5 Forward Reach. If the clear floor
clear floor or ground space required to accom-
space only allows forward approach to an ob-
modate a single. stationary wheelchair
ject. the maximum high forward reach allowed
occupant is 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by 1220
shall be 48 in (1220 mm) (see Fig. 5(a)). The
mm) (see Fig. 4(a)). The minimum clear floor
minimum low forward reach is 15 in (380 mm).
or ground space for wheelchairs may be posi-
If the high forward reach is over an obstruc-
tioned for forward or parallel approach to an
tion, reach and clearances shall be as shown
object (see Fig. 4(b) and (c)). Clear floor or
in Fig. 5(b).
ground space for wheelchairs may be part of
the knee space required under some objects.
4.2.6* Side Reach. If the clear floor space
allows parallel approach by a person in a
4.2.4.2 Relationship of Maneuvering Clear-
wheelchair. the maximum high side reach al-
ance to Wheelchair Spaces. One full
lowed shall be 54 in (1370 mm) and the low
unobstructed side of the clear floor or ground
side reach shall be no less than 9 in (230 mm)
space for a wheelchair shall adjoin or overlap
above the floor (Fig. 6(a) and (b)). If the side
an accessible route or adjoin another wheel-
reach is over an obstruction, the reach and
chair clear floor space. If a clear floor space is
clearances shall be as shown in Fig 6(c).
13
2340
Federal Register 11 Vols 56, No. 14 /: Tuesday, January 22,. 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges
48
1220
30
760
30
760
48
30
48
1220
760
1220
(a)
(b)
(c)
Clear Floor Space
Forward Approach
Parallel Approach
30
760
48
X
1220
48
1220
X
30
760
NOTE: X ≤ 24 in (610 mm).
NOTE: X ≤ 15 in (380 mm).
(d)
Clear Floor Space in Alcoves
X
X
30
6
48
12
760
150
1220
305
NOTE: If X > 24 in (610 mm); then an additional
NOTE: If X > 15 in (380 mm), then an.additional
maneuvering clearance of 6 in (150 mm) shall be
maneuvering clearance of 12 in (305 mm), shall be
provided as shown.
provided as shown.
(e)
Additional/Maneuvering-Cleerances for Alcoves
Fig. 4
Minimum Clear Floor Space for Wheelchairs
14
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2341
4.2 Space Allowance and Reach Ranges
48
1220
30
760
48
1220
15 min
380
48
1220
(a)
High Forward Reach Limit
X
30
760
X
Z
48
Z
1220
48
1220
NOTE: K shall be ≤ 25 in (635 mm); Z shall be ≥ K. When X < 20 in (510 mm). then y shall be 48 in (1220 mm) maximum.
When X is 20 to 25 in (510 to 635 mm), then y shall be 44 in (1120 mm) maximum.
(b)
Maximum Forward Reach over an Obstruction
Fig. 5
Forward Reach
15
2342
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.3 Accessible Route
10 max
30
255
760
48
1220
54
1370
9
230
10 max
30
255
760
(a)
(b)
Clear Floor Space Parallel Approach
High and Low
Side Reach Limits
30
24
760
510
46
1170
34 max
865
(c)
Maximum Side Reach over Obstruction
Fig. 6
Side Reach
4.3 Accessible Route
ing. and accessible passenger loading zones.
and public streets or sidewalks to the accessi-
4.3.1* General. All walks, halls. corridors.
ble building entrance they serve.
aisles. and other spaces that are part of an ac-
cessible route shall comply with 4.3.
(2) AL least one accessible route shall
connect accessible buildings, facilities,
4.3.2 Location.
elements, and spaces that are on the same site.
(1) At least one accessible route within the
(3) At least one accessible route shall
boundary of the site shall be provided from
connect accessible building or facility
public transportation stops, accessible park-
entrances with all accessible spaces and
16
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2343
4.3 Accessible Route
48 min
36 min
1220
915
36 min
48 min
36 min
42 min
42
min
915
1220
915
1065
1065
NOTE: Dimensions shown apply when X < 48 in (1,220 mm).
(a)
(b)
90°Turn
Turns around an Obstruction
max
1/4 to 1/2
6.5-13
-
6.5
1/4
2
(c)
(d)
Changes in level
Changes in level
Fig. 7
Width of Accessible Route
elements and with all accessible dwelling units
cept at doors (see 4. 13.5). If a person in a
within the building or facility.
wheelchair must make a turn around an ob-
struction, the minimum clear width of the
(4) An accessible route shall connect at least
accessible route shall be as shown in Fig. 7.
one accessible entrance of each accessible
dwelling unit with those exterior and interior
4.3.4 Passing Space. If an accessible route
spaces and facilities that serve the accessible
has less than 60 in (1525 mm) clear width,
dwelling unit
then passing spaces at least 60 in by 60 in
(1525 mm by 1525 mm) shall be located at rea-
4.3.3 Width. The minimum clear width of
sonable intervals not to exceed 200 ft (61 m).
an accessible route shall be 36 in (915 mm) ex-
17
2344
Federal Register / Vol. 56. No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.3 Accessible Route
A T-intersection of two corridors or walks Is an
fire-reststive separation. Every area of refuge
acceptable passing place.
above or below the level of exit discharge (the
ground floor level) shall have direct access to
4.3.5 Head Room. Accessible routes shall
an exit statrway and, tn addition, may have ac-
comply with 4.4.2.
cess to an egress elevator where such elevator
is designed and constructed tn compliance with
4.3.6 Surface Textures. The surface of an
other regulations as being suitable for emer-
accessible route shall comply with 4.5.
gency evacuation when operated by trained
emergency service personnel. Doors to the area
4.3.7 Slope. An accessible route with a run-
of refuge shall be in compliance with all require-
ning slope greater than 1:20 is a ramp and
ments of 4.13, shall swing tn the direction of
shall comply with 4.8. Nowhere shall the cross
exit travel, and shall not prevent re-entry from
slope of an accessible route exceed 1:50.
the egress side. Every area of refuge shall pro-
vide a minimum of two wheelchatr spaces, each
4.3.8 Changes in Levels. Changes In levels
30 inches by 48 tnches. Wheelchair spaces
along an accessible route shall comply with
shall not be part of, nor encroach upon, any re-
4.5.2. If an accessible route has changes in
quired extt/corridor/landing dimension. Travel
level greater than 1/2 in (13 mm). then a curb
in two directions to an area of refuge shall be
ramp, ramp, elevator. or platform lift shall be
possible from any point on the level served by
provided that complies with 4.7. 4.8, 4.10, or
the area of refuge. A two-way communication
4.11, respectively. Stairs shall not be part of
system, with both visible and audible signals.
an accessible route.
shall be provided between an area of refuge
and a central emergency management control
4.3.9 Doors. Doors along an accessible
point. Where telephone handsets are provided
route shall comply with 4.13.
as one means of communication, they shall com-
ply with 4.31. A landing in an exit statr which
4.3.10* Egress. Accessible routes serving
does not contain a standpipe may be used as
any accessible space or element shall also
an area of refuge If the spaces for wheelchairs
serve as a means of egress for emergencies or
do not encroach upon the required landing di-
connect to an accessible area of refuge.
mensions. Signage identifying and directing
people to the area of refuge is required and
4.3.11 Areas of Refuge. Every area of ref-
shall use the international symbol of
uge shall have a one-hour minimum
accessibility.
18
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 1 Proposed Rules
2345
4.4 Protruding Objects
clear width
any amount
Lobby
4 max
100
685
80 min
2030
higher than 27
27 or below
685
(a)
Walking Parailel to a Wall
4.4 Protruding Objects.
4.4.1* General. Objects projecting from
walls (for example, telephones) with their lead-
ing edges between 27 in and 80 in (685 mm
and 2030 mm) above the finished floor shall
protrude no more than 4 in (100 mm) into
walks, halls, corridors, passageways, or aisles
(see Fig. 8(a)). Objects mounted with their
leading edges at or below 27 in (685 mm)
above the finished floor may protrude any
amount (see Fig. 8(a) and (b)). Free-standing
objects mounted on posts or pylons may over-
hang 12 in (305 mm) maximum from 27 in to
80 in (685 mm to 2030 mm) above the ground
27 max
or finished floor (see Fig. 8(c) and (d)). Protrud-
685
ing objects shall not reduce the clear width of
an accessible route or maneuvering space (see
Fig. 8(e)).
cane range
4.4.2 Head Room. Walks, halls, corridors,
(b)
passageways, aisles, or other circulation
Walking Perpendicular to a Wall
spaces shall have 80 in (2030 mm) minimum
clear head room (see Fig. 8(a)). If vertical clear-
Fig. 8
ance of an area adjotning an accessible route
Protruding Objects
is reduced to less than 80 tn (nominal dimen-
ston), a barrier to warn blind or
visually-tmpatred persons shall be provided
(see Fig. 8(c)).
19
2346
Federal Register / Vol: 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.4 Protruding Objects
greater than 12
305
greater than 12
305
27 max
685
Plan
Elevation
(c) Free-Standing Overhanging Objects
protect shaded
area from
cross-traffic
27
685
CANE
II
80
2030
DETECTION
AREA
(c) Overhead Hazards
12 max
305
685
cane hits post or pylon
greater than 27
before person hits object
this overhang can be
greater than 12 [305]
because no one can
approach the object
from this direction
Plan
Elevation
cane range
12 max
305
(d)
Objects Mounted on Posts or Pylons
Fig. 8
Protruding Objects (Continued)
20
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2347
4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces
corridor or other
clear width
point passage
circulation space
24 max
36 clear
continuous
passage
610
any
dimension
4 max
wing walls down
to floor
100
additional protection
protruding objects
not required between
hanging on wall with
wing walls
leading edges above
27 |685)
(e)
Example of Protection around Wall-Mounted Objects and Measurements of Clear Widths
Fig. 8
Protruding Objects (Continued)
4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces.
4.5.3* Carpet. If carpet or carpet tile is used
on a ground or floor surface, then it shall be se-
4.5.1* General. Ground and floor surfaces
curely attached; have a firm cushion, pad, or
along accessible routes and in accessible rooms
backing. or no cushion or pad: and have a level.
and spaces including floors. walks, ramps.
loop. textured loop. level cut pile. or level
stairs, and curb ramps, shall be stable. firm. slip-
cut/uncut pile texture. The maximum pile
resistant, and shall comply with 4.5.
height shall be 1/2 in (13 mm). Exposed edges
of carpet shall be fastened to floor surfaces and
4.5.2 Changes in Level. Changes in level
have trim along the entire length of the exposed
up to 1/4 in (6 mm) may be vertical and with-
edge. Carpet edge trim shall comply with 4.5.2.
out edge treatment (see Fig. 7(c)). Changes in
level between 1/4 in and 1/2 in (6 mm and 13
4.5.4 Gratings. If gratings are located in
mm) shall be beveled with a slope no greater
walking surfaces, then they shall have spaces
than 1:2 (see Fig. 7(d)). Changes in level
no greater than 1/2 in (13 mm) wide in one di-
greater than 1/2 in (13 mm) shall be accom-
rection (see Flg. 8(g)). If gratings have
plished by means of a ramp that complies with
elongated openings. then they shall be placed
4.7 or 4.8.
so that the long dimension is perpendicular to
the dominant direction of travel (see Fig. 8(h)).
21
2348
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones
4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading
max
Zones.
4.6.1 Minimum Number. Parking spaces re-
13
quired to be accessible by 4.1 shall comply
with 4.6.2 through 4.6.4. Passenger loading
zones required to be accessible by 4.1 shall
comply with 4.6.5 and 4.6.6.
4.6.2 Location. Parking spaces for disabled
people and accessible passenger loading zones
that serve a particular building shall be the
Fig. 8(f)
spaces or zones located closest to the nearest
Carpet Tile Thickness
accessible entrance on an accessible route. In
separate parking structures or lots that do not
serve a particular building, parking spaces for
disabled people shall be located on the short-
est possible circulation route to an accessible
pedestrian entrance of the parking facility.
predominant direction
of traffic
4.6.3* Parking Spaces. Parking spaces for
disabled people shall be at least 96 in (2440
1/2
max
mm) wide and shall have an adjacent access
13
aisle 60 in (1525 mm) wide minimum (see Fig.
9). Parking access aisles shall be part of an ac-
cessible route to the building or facility
entrance and shall comply with 4.3. Two acces-
sible parking spaces may share a common
access aisle. Parked vehicle overhangs shall
not reduce the clear width of an accessible cir-
culation route. Parking spaces and access
Fig. 8(g)
Gratings
aisles shall be level with surface slopes not ex-
ceeding 1:50 in all directions.
accessible route
36
915
0
0
0
long dimension
0
0
0
perpendicular to
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
route of trabel
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
96min
60min
2440
1525
252 min
6400
Fig. 8(h)
Fig. 9
Grating Orientation
Dimensions of Parking Spaces
22
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2349
4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones
EXCEPTION. If accessible parking spaces for
4.6.4* Signage. Accessible parking spaces
vans designed for handicapped persons are
shall be designated as reserved for the dis-
provided. each should have an adjacent access
abled by a sign showing the symbol of
aisle at least 96 in (2440 mm) wide complying
accessibility (see 4.30.7). Such signs shall not
with 4.5, Ground and Floor Surfaces.
be obscured by a vehicle parked in the space.
4.6.5 Passenger Loading Zones. Passen-
240 min
60 min
ger loading zones shall provide an access aisle
1525
6100
at least 60 tn (1525 mm) wide and 20 ft (6 m)
long adjacent and parallel to the vehicle pull-
up space (see Fig. 10). If there are curbs
between the access aisle and the vehicle pull-
up space, then a curb ramp complying with
4.7 shall be provided. Vehicle standing spaces
and access aisles shall be level with surface
slopes not exceeding 1:50 in all directions.
Flg. 10
4.6.6 Vertical Clearance. Provide mini-
Access Aisle at Passenger Loading Zones
mum vertical clearance of 114 tn at accessible
passenger loading zones and along vehicle ac-
cess routes to such areas from site entrances.
X
Adjoining slope shall
Y
not exceed 1:20
slope= = Y:X
where X is a level plane
walk
street
Fig. 11
Measurement of Curb Ramp Slopes
Planting OF other
non-walking surface
+
flared side
1
10
(a)
(b)
Flared Sides
Returned Curb
If X is less than 48 in,
then the slope of the flared side
shall not exceed 1:12.
Fig. 12
Sides of Curb Ramps
23
2350
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.7 Curb Ranips
If accessible van parking spaces we provided,
4.7.7 Detectable Warnings. A curb ramp
then the minimum vertical clearance should be
shall have a detectable warning complying
114 in
with 4.29.2. The detectable warning shall ex-
tend the full width and depth of the curb ramp.
4.7
Curb Ramps.
4.7.8 Obstructions. Curb ramps shall be lo-
4.7.1 Location. Curb ramps complying with
cated or protected to prevent their obstruction
4.7 shall be provided wherever an accessible
by parked vehicles.
route crosses a curb.
4.7.9 Location at Marked Crossings.
4.7.2 Slope. Slopes of curb ramps shall com-
Curb ramps at marked crossings shall be
ply with 4.8.2. The slope shall be measured as
wholly contained within the markings, exclud-
shown in Fig. 11. Transitions from ramps to
ing any flared sides (see Fig. 15)
walks, gutters, or streets shall be flush and
free of abrupt changes. Maximum slopes of ad-
4.7.10 Diagonal Curb Ramps. If diagonal
Joining gutters, road surface tmmediately
(or corner type) curb ramps have returned
adjacent to the curb ramp. or accessible route
curbs or other well-defined edges, such edges
shall not exceed 1:20.
shall be parallel to the direction of pedestrian
flow. The bottom of diagonal curb ramps shall
4.7.3 Width. The minismum width of a curb
have 48 in (1220 mm) minimum clear space
ramp shall be 36 in (915 mm). exclusive of
as shown in Fig. 15(c) and (d). If diagonal curb
flared sides.
ramps are provided at marked crossings, the
48 in (1220 mm) clear space shall be within
4.7.4 Surface. Surfaces of curb ramps shall
the markings (see Fig. 15(c) and (d)). If diago-
comply with 4.5.
nal curb ramps have flared sides, they shall
also have at least a 24 in (610 mm) long seg-
4.7.5 Sides of Curb Ramps. If a curb
ment of straight curb located on each side of
ramp is located where pedestrians must walk
the curb ramp and within the marked crossing
across the ramp. or where it ts not protected by
(see Fig. 15(c)).
handralls or guardrails, then It shall have
flared sides; the maximum slope of the flare
4.7.11 Islands. Any raised islands in cross-
shall be 1:10 (see Fig. 12(a)). Curb ramps with
ings shall be cut through level with the street
returned curbs may be used where pedestri-
or have curb ramps at both sides and a level
ans would not normally walk across the ramp
area at least 48 in (1220 mm) long in the part
(see Fig. 12(b)).
of the island intersected by the crossings (see
Fig. 15(a) and (b)).
4.7.6 Built-up Curb Ramps. Built-up curb
ramps shall be located SO that they do not proj-
4.8 Ramps.
ect into vehicular traffic lanes (see Fig. 13).
4.8.1* General. Any part of an accessible
route with a slope greater than 1:20 shall be
considered a ramp and shall comply with 4.8.
36 min
4.8.2* Slope and Rise. The least possible
typ.
slope shall be used for any ramp. The maxi-
1
mum slope of a ramp in new construction
10
shall be 1:12. The maximum rise for any run
shall be 30 in (760 mm) (see Fig. 16). Curb
ramps and ramps to be constructed on exist-
ing sites or in existing buildings or facilities
Fig. 13
may have slopes and rises as shown in
Built-Up Curb Ramp
4.1.6(3)(a) if space limitations prohibit the use
of a 1:12 slope or less.
24
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2351
4.8 Ramps
segment of
straight curb
D
(a)
(b)
48min
1220
48min
1220
segment of
straight curb
well defined edge
(c)
(d)
Fig. 15
Curb Ramps at Marked Crossings
25
2352
Federal Register / Vol. 56. No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.8 Ramps
Rise
Surface of Ramp
Horizontal Projection or Run
Maximum Rise
Maximum Horizontal Projection
Skipe
in
mm
it
m
1:12 to < 1:16
30
760
30
9
1:16 to < 1:20 30
760
40
Fig. 16
Components of a Single Ramp Run and Sample Ramp Dimensions
4.8.3 Clear Width. The minimum clear
on switchback or dogleg ramps shall always be
width of a ramp shall be 36 in (915 mm).
continuous.
4.8.4 Landings. Ramps shall have level land-
(2) If handrails are not continuous, they shall
Ings at bottom and top of each run. Landings
extend at least 12 In (305 mm) beyond the top
shall have the following features:
and bottom of the ramp segment and shall be
parallel with the floor or ground surface.
(1) The landing shall be at least as wide as
the ramp run leading to IL.
(3) The clear space between the handrall and
the wall shall 1 - 1/2 in (38 mm).
(2) The landing length shall be a minimum of
60 In (1525 mm) clear.
(4) Gripping surfaces shall be continuous.
(3) If ramps change direction at landings, the
(5) Top of handrall gripping surfaces shall be
minimum landing size shall be 60 in by 60 in
mounted between 30 in and 34 in (760 mm
(1525 mm by 1525 mm).
and 865 mm) above ramp surfaces.
(4) If a doorway is located at a landing, then
(6) Ends of handrails shall be either rounded
the area in front of the doorway shall comply
or returned smoothly to floor, wall, or post.
with 4.13.6.
(7) Handralls shall not rotate within their fit
4.8.5* Handrails. If a ramp run has a rise
tings.
greater than 6 in (152 mm) or a horizontal pro-
jection greater than 72 in (1830 mm). then It
4.8.6 Cross Slope and Surfaces. The
shall have handralls on both sides. Handrails
cross slope of ramp surfaces shall be no
are not required on curb ramps. Handralls
greater than 1:50. Ramp surfaces shall comply
shall comply with 4.26 and shall have the fol-
with 4.5.
lowing features:
4.8.7 Edge Protection. Ramps and land-
(1) Handrails shall be provided along both
ings with drop-offs shall have curbs, walls.
sides of ramp segments. The Inside handrail
railings. or projecting surfaces that prevent peo-
26
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2353
4.9 Stairs
ple from slipping off the ramp. Curbs shall be
(4) Gripping surfaces shall be uninterrupted
a minimum of 2 in (50 mm) high (see Fig. 17).
by newel posts, other construction elements,
or obstructions.
4.8.8 Outdoor Conditions. Outdoor ramps
and their approaches shall be designed so that
(5) Top of handrail gripping surface shall be
water will not accumulate on walking surfaces.
mounted between 30 in and 34 in (760 mm
and 865 mm) above stair nosings.
4.9 Stairs.
(6) Ends of handrails shall be etther rounded
4.9.1 Minimum Number. Stairs required to
or returned smoothly to floor. wall or post.
be accessible by 4.1 shall comply with 4.9.
(7) Handrails shall not rotate within their fit-
4.9.2 Treads and Risers. On any given
tings.
flight of stairs, all steps shall have uniform
riser heights and uniform tread widths. Stair
4.9.5 Detectable Warnings at Stairs. De-
treads shall be no less than 11 in (280 mm)
tectable warnings at stairs shall comply with
wide, measured from riser to riser (see Fig.
4.29.4.
18(a)). Open risers are not permitted.
4.9.6 Outdoor Conditions. Outdoor stairs
4.9.3 Nosings. The undersides of nosings
and their approaches shall be designed so that
shall not be abrupt. The radius of curvature at
water will not accumulate on walking surfaces.
the leading edge of the tread shall be no
greater than 1/2 in (13 mm). Risers shall be
4.10 Elevators.
sloped or the underside of the nosing shall
have an angle not less than 60 degrees from
4.10.1 General. Accessible elevators shall
the horizontal. Nosings shall project no more
be on an accessible route and shall comply
than 1-1/2 in (38 mm) (see Fig. 18).
with 4.10 and with the ANSI/ASME A17.1-
1984, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators
4.9.4 Handrails. Stairways shall have hand-
(including supplement ANSI/ASME A17.1a-
rails at both sides of all stairs. Handrails shall
1985). This standard does not preclude the
comply with 4.26 and shall have the following
use of residential or fully enclosed wheelchair
features:
lifts when appropriate and approved by admin-
istrative authorities. Freight elevators shall
(1) Handrails shall be continuous along both
not be considered as meeting the requirements
sides of stairs. The inside handrail on switch-
of this section unless the only elevators pro-
back or dogleg stairs shall always be
vided are used as combination passenger and
continuous (see Fig. 19(a) and (b)).
freight elevators for the public and employees.
(2) If handrails are not continuous, they shall
4.10.2 Automatic Operation. Elevator op-
extend at least 12 in (305 mm) beyond the top
eration shall be automatic. Each car shall be
riser and at least 12 in (305 mm) plus the
equipped with a self-leveling feature that will
width of one tread beyond the bottom riser. At
automatically bring the car to floor landings
the top, the extension shall be parallel with
within a tolerance of 1/2 in (13 mm) under
the floor or ground surface. At the bottom, the
rated loading to zero loading conditions. This
handrail shall continue to slope for a distance
self-leveling feature shall be automatic and
of the width of one tread from the bottom
independent of the operating device and shall
riser; the remainder of the extension shall be
correct the overtravel or undertravel.
horizontal (see Fig. 19(c) and (d)). Handrail ex-
tensions shall comply with 4.4.
4.10.3 Hall Call Buttons. Call buttons in
4
elevator lobbies and halls shall be centered at
(3) The clear space between handrails and
42 in (1065 mm) above the floor. Such call
wall shall be 1-1/2 in (38 mm).
buttons shall have visual signals to indicate
when each call is registered and when each
call is answered. Call buttons shall be a mini-
mum of 3/4 in (19 mm) in the smallest
27
2354
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.9 Stairs
elevation
section
12 min
12 min
305
305
36min
2min
50
915
curb
<27
685
V
36min
915
8
8
wall
30-34 typ.
760-865
36min
915
vertical guard rail
12min
305
36min
915
railing with extended
platform
Fig. 17
Examples of Edge Protection and Handrall Extensions
1 1/max
38
11min
11/max
1/smax
38
280
35
radius
60
(b)
601
radius
radius
Angled Nosing
(a)
Flush Riser
Flg. 18
(c)
Usable Tread Width and Examples of Acceptable Nosings
Rounded Nosing
28
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2355
4.9 Stairs
X
UP
X
(b)
Elevation of Center Handrail
(a)
Plan
X
12 min
305
27 or below
Y
12 min
305
A
A
(c)
(d)
Extension at Bottom of Run
Extension at Top of Run
NOTE:
X is the 12 in minimum handrall extension required
1 at each top riser.
y is the minimum handrall extension of 12 in plus the
width of one tread that is required at each bottom riser.
Fig. 19
Stair Handralls
29
2356
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.10 Elevators
cars, visible from the vicinity of hall call but-
tons, and conforming to the above
requirements, shall be acceptable (see Fig. 20).
4.10.5 Raised Characters on Hoistway
Entrances. All elevator hoistway entrances
shall have raised floor designations provided
on both jambs. The centerline of the charac-
ters shall be 60 in (1525 mm) from the floor.
Such characters shall be 2 in (50 mm) high
and shall comply with 4.30.4. Permanently ap-
plied plates are acceptable if they are
permanently fixed to the jambs. (See Fig. 20).
1830
4.10.6* Door Protective and Reopening
Device. Elevator doors shall open and close
automatically. They shall be provided with a
reopening device that will stop and reopen a
car door and holstway door automatically if
the door becomes obstructed by an object or
person. The device shall be capable of com-
pleting these operations without requiring
contact for an obstruction passing through the
NOTE: The automatic door reopening device is activated if an
opening at heights of 5 in and 29 in (125 mm
object passes through either line A or line B. Line A and line B
and 735 mm) from the floor (see Fig. 20).
represent the vertical locations of the door reopening device not
Door reopening devices shall remain effective
requiring contact.
for at least 20 seconds. After such an interval,
Fig. 20
doors may close in accordance with the re-
Hoistway and Elevator Entrances
quirements of ANSI A17.1-1984 and A17.1
a-1985.
dimension. The button designating the up di-
4.10.7* Door and Signal Timing for Hall
rection shall be on top (see Fig. 20). Buttons
Calls. The minimum acceptable time from
shall be raised or flush Objects mounted be-
notification that a car is answering a call until
neath hall call buttons shall not project Into the
the doors of that car start to close shall be cal-
elevator lobby more than 4 in (100 mm)
culated from the following equation:
4.10.4 Hall Lanterns. A visible and audible
T = D/(1.5 ft/s) or T = D/(445 mm/s)
signal shall be provided at each hoistway en-
trance to indicate which car is answering a
where T = total time in seconds and D =
call. Audible signals shall sound once for the
distance (in feet or millimeters) from a point in
up direction and twice for the down direction
the lobby or corridor 60 in (1525 mm) directly
or shall have verbal annunciators that say
in front of the farthest call button controlling
"up" or "down." Visible signals shall have the
that car to the centerline of its hoistway door
following features:
(see Fig. 21). For cars with in-car lanterns, T
begins when the lantern is visible from the vi-
(1) Hall lantern fixtures shall be mounted so
cinity of hall call buttons and an audible
that their centerline is at least 72 in (1830
signal is sounded. The minimum acceptable no-
mm) above the lobby floor.
tification time shall be 5 seconds.
(2) Visual elements shall be at least 2-1/2 in
4.10.8 Door Delay for Car Calls. The mini-
(64 mm) in the smallest dimension.
mum time for elevator doors to remain fully
open in response to a car call shall be 3 sec-
(3) Signals shall be visible from the vicinity of
onds.
the hall call button. In-car lanterns located in
30
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2357
4.10 Elevators
acceptable
13
80 min
12
2030
time in seconds
11
10
9
0
7
6
5
unacceptable
54 min
1370
51 min
1291
4
3
2
1
0
5
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
36 min
D
distance in feet
915
Fig. 21
(a)
Graph of Timing Equation
68min
1730
4.10.9 Floor Plan of Elevator Cars. The
floor area of elevator cars shall provide space
for wheelchair users to enter the car, maneu-
ver within reach of controls, and exit from the
51min
54 min
1370
car. Acceptable door opening and inside di-
1291
mensions shall be as shown in Fig. 22. The
clearance between the car platform sill and the
edge of any holstway landing shall be no
greater than 1-1/4 in (32 mm).
4.10.10 Floor Surfaces. Floor surfaces
36min
shall comply with 4.5.
915
(b)
4.10.11 Illumination Levels. The level of
illumination at the car controls, platform, and
Fig. 22
car threshold and landing sill shall be at, least
Minimum Dimensions of Elevator Cars
5 footcandles (53.8 lux).
4.10.12* Car Controls. Elevator control
tons shall be placed immediately to the left of
panels shall have the following features:
the button to which they apply. Applied
plates, permanently attached, are an accept-
(1) Buttons. All control buttons shall be at
able means to provide raised control
least 3/4 in (19 mm) in their smallest dimen-
designations. Floor buttons shall be provided
sion. They may be raised or flush.
with visual indicators to show when each call
is registered. The visual indicators shall be ex-
(2) Tactile and Visual Control Indicators. All
tinguished when each call is answered.
control buttons shall be designated by raised
standard alphabet characters for letters, ara-
(3) Height. All floor buttons shall be no higher
bic characters for numerals, or standard
than 48 in (1220 mm). unless there is a sub-
symbols as shown in Fig. 23(a), and as re-
stantial increase in cost in which case the
quired in ANSI A17.1-1984 and A17.1a-1985.
maximum mounting height may be increased to
Raised characters and symbols shall comply
54 in (1370 mm). above the floor. Emergency
with 4.30.4. The call button for the main
controls, including the emergency alarm and
entry floor shall be designated by a raised star
emergency stop. shall be grouped at the bot-
at the left of the floor designation (see Fig.
tom of the panel and shall have their
23(a)). All raised designations for control but-
31
2358
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.10 Elevators
numeral height
3/4
19
5/8
control diameter
16
7
8
5
6
main
entry
1
2
floor
S
B
door
closed
door
48 max
1220
open
IN
emergency
35 min
890
alarm
emergency
octagon symbol
stop
shall be tactual.
but the X is not
(a)
(b)
Panel Detail
Control Height
(c)
(d)
Alternate Locations of Panel
Alternate Locations of Panel
with Center Opening Door
with Side Opening Door
Fig. 23
Car Controls
centerlines no less than 35 in (890 mm) above
hoistway. As the car passes or stops at a floor
the floor (see Fig. 23(a) and (b)).
served by the elevators, the corresponding nu-
merals shall illuminate, and an audible signal
(4) Location. Controls shall be located on a
shall sound. Numerals shall be a minimum of
front wall if cars have center opening doors,
1/2 in (13 mm) high. The audible signal shall
and at the side wall or at the front wall next to
be no less than 20 decibels with a frequency
the door if cars have side opening doors (see
no higher than 1500 Hz. An automatic verbal
Fig. 23(c) and (d)).
announcement of the floor number at which a
car stops or which a car passes may be substi-
4.10.13* Car Position Indicators. In eleva-
tuted for the audible signal.
tor cars, a visual car position indicator shall be
provided above the car control panel or over the
4.10.14* Emergency Communications.
door to show the position of the elevator in the
If provided. emergency two-way communica-
32
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2359
4.13 Doors
tion systems between the elevator and a point
only means of passage at an accessible en-
outside the hoistway shall comply with ANSI
trance or along an accessible route. An
A17.1-1984 and A17.1 a-1985. The highest
accessible gate or door shall be provided adja-
operable part of a two-way communication sys-
cent to the turnstile or revolving door and shall
tem shall be a maximum of 48 in (1220 mm)
be so designed as to facilitate the same use
from the floor of the car. It shall be identified
pattern.
by a raised or recessed symbol and lettering
complying with 4.30 and located adjacent to
4.13.3 Gates. Gates, including ticket gates,
the device. If the system uses a handset then
shall meet all applicable specifications of 4.13.
the length of the cord from the panel to the
handset shall be at least 29 in (735 mm). If
4.13.4 Double-Leaf Doorways. If door-
the system is located in a closed compartment
ways have two independently operated door
the compartment door hardware shall conform
leaves. then at least one leaf shall meet the
to 4.27, Controls and Operating Mechanisms.
specifications in 4.13.5 and 4.13.6. That leaf
The emergency intercommunication system
shall be an active leaf.
shall not require voice communication.
4.13.5 Clear Width. Doorways shall have a
4.11* Platform Lifts.
minimum clear opening of 32 in (815 mm)
with the door open 90 degrees, measured be-
4.11.1 Location. Platform lifts permitted by
tween the face of the door and the stop (see
4.1 shall comply with the requirements of 4.11.
Fig. 24(a), (b). (c), and (d)). Openings more
than 24 in (610 mm) in depth shall comply
4.11.2 Other Requirements. If platform
with 4.2.1 and 4.3.3 (see Fig. 24(e)).
lifts are used. they shall comply with 4.2.4.
4.5, 4.27, and the applicable safety regula-
EXCEPTION: Doors not requiring full user pas-
tions of administrative authorities having
sage, such as shallow closets, may have the
jurisdiction.
clear opening reduced to 20 in (510 mm) mini-
mum.
4.11.3 Entrance. If platform lifts are used
then they should facilitate unassisted entry
4.13.6 Maneuvering Clearances at
and exit from the lift in compliance with 4.11.2.
Doors. Minimum maneuvering clearances at
doors that are not automatic or power-assisted
4.12 Windows
shall be as shown in Fig. 25. The floor or
ground area within the required clearances
4.12.1 General. Windows Intended to be op-
shall be level and clear. Entry doors to acute
erated by occupants in accessible spaces shall
care hospital bedrooms for in-patients shall be
comply with 4.12.
exempted from the requirement for space at
the latch side of the door (see dimension "X" in
4.12.2 Window Hardware. Windows requir-
Fig. 25) if the door is at least 44 in (1120 mm)
ing pushing. pulling. or lifting to open (for
wide.
example, double-hung, sliding. or casement
and awning units without cranks) shall re-
4.13.7 Two Doors in Series. The minimum
quire no more than 5 lbf (22.2 N) to open or
space between two hinged or pivoted doors in
close. Locks, cranks. and other window hard-
series shall be 48 in (1220 mm) plus the width
ware shall comply with 4.27.
of any door swinging into the space. Doors in
series shall swing either in the same direction
4.13 Doors.
or away from the space between the doors (see
Fig. 26).
4.13.1 General. Doors required to be accessi-
ble by 4.1 shall comply with the requirements
4.13.8* Thresholds at Doorways. Thresh-
olds at doorways shall not exceed 3/4 in (19
of 4.13.
mm) in height for exterior sliding doors or 1/2
4.13.2 Revolving Doors and Turnstiles.
in (13 mm) for other types of doors. Raised
thresholds and floor level changes at accessi-
Revolving doors or turnstiles shall not be the
33
2360
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.13 Doors
32 min
32 min
815
815
(a)
(b)
Detail
Hinged Door
32 min
32 min
815
815
(c)
Sliding Door
max
32 min
?
615
(d)
(e)
Folding Door
Maximum Doorway Depth
Fig. 24
Clear Doorway Width and Depth
ble doorways shall be beveled with a slope no
4.13.10* Door Closers. If a door has a
greater than 1:2 (see 4.5.2).
closer. then the sweep period of the closer
shall be adjusted so that from an open posi-
4.13.9* Door Hardware. Handles, pulls.
tion of 70 degrees, the door will take at least 3
latches, locks, and other operating devices on
seconds to move to a point 3 in (75 mm) from
accessible doors shall have a shape that is
the latch. measured to the leading edge of the
easy to grasp with one hand and does not re-
door.
quire tight grasping. tight pinching. or twisting
of the wrist to operate. Lever-operated mecha-
4.13.11* Door Opening Force. The maxi-
nisms, push-type mechanisms, and U-shaped
mum force for pushing or pulling open a door
handles are acceptable designs. When sliding
shall be as follows:
doors are fully open, operating hardware shall
be exposed and usable from both sides. In
(1) Fire doors shall have the minimum opening
dwelling units, only doors at accessible en-
force allowable by the appropriate administra-
trances to the unit itself shall comply with the
tive authority.
requirements of this paragraph. Doors to haz-
ardous areas shall have hardware complying
(2) Other doors.
with 4.29.3. Mount no hardware required for
accessible door passage higher than 48 in
(a) exterior hinged doors: (Reserved).
(1220 mm) above finished floor.
(b) interior hinged doors: 5 lbf (22.2N)
34
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2361
4.13 Doors
Pull Side
X
Push Side
60min
1525
18 min. 24 preferred
48min
1220
455
NOTE: X = 12 in (305 mm) if door has both a
closer and latch.
(a)
Front Approaches - Swinging Doors
Pull Side
Push Side
54min
1370
X
42min
1065
NOTE: X = 36 in (915 mm) minimum if y = 60 in
(1525 mm): X = 42 in (1065 mm) minimum if y =
54 in (1370 mm).
NOTE: y = 48 in (1220 mm) minimum if door has
both a latch and closer.
(b)
Hinge Side Approaches - Swinging Doors
X
Pull Side
24 min
X
Push Side
610
24min
610
Y
48min
1220
42 min
1065
NOTE: y = 54 in (1370 mm) minimum if door has
closer.
NOTE: y = 48 in (1220 mm) minimum if door has
closer.
(c)
Latch Side Approaches - Swinging Doors
NOTE: All doors in alcoves shall comply with the clearances for front approaches.
Fig. 25
Maneuvering Clearances at Doors
35
2362
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.13 Doors
54 min
1370
48min
1220
42min
42
1065
(d)
(e)
Front Approach - Sliding Doors
Slide Side Approach - Sliding Doors
and Folding Doors
and Folding Doors
X
24 min
610
42
1065
(f)
Latch Side Approach - Sliding Doors and Folding Doors
NOTE: All doors in alcoves shall comply with the clearances for front approaches.
Fig. 25
Maneuvering Clearances at Doors (Continued)
48 min
48min
1220
1220
1
Fig. 26
Two Hinged Doors in Series
36
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2363
4.15 Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers
(c) sliding or folding doors: 5 Ibf (22.2N)
water flow in a trajectory that is parallel or
nearly parallel to the front of the unit. The
These forces do not apply to the force required
spout shall provide a flow of water at least 4 in
to retract latch bolts or disengage other devices
(100 mm) high S0 as to allow the insertion of a
that may hold the door in a closed position.
cup or glass under the flow of water.
4.13.12* Automatic Doors and Power-As-
4.15.4 Controls. Controls shall comply
sisted Doors. If an automatic door Is used.
with 4.27.4. Unit controls shall befront
then It shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.
mounted or side mounted near the front edge.
1985. Slowly opening, low-powered, automatic
doors shall comply with ANSI A156.19-1984:
4.15.5 Clearances.
Such doors shall not open to back check
faster than 3 seconds and shall require no
(1) Wall- and post-mounted cantilevered
more than 15 lbf (66.6N) to stop door move-
units shall have a clear knee space between
ment. If a power-assisted door is used. Its
the bottom of the apron and the floor or
door-opening force shall comply with 4.13.11
ground at least 27 in (685 mm) high. 30 in
and its closing shall conform to the require-
(760 mm) wide, and 17 in to 19 in (430 mm to
ments in ANSI A156.19-1984.
485 mm) deep (see Fig. 27(a) and (b)). Such
units shall also have a minimum clear floor
4.14 Entrances.
space 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by 1220 mm) to
allow a person in a wheelchair to approach the
4.14.1 Minimum Number. Entrances re-
unit facing forward.
quired to be accessible by 4.1 shall be part of
an accessible route and shall comply with 4.3.
(2) Free-standing or built-in units not having
Such entrances shall be connected by an ac-
a clear space under them shall have a clear
cessible route to public transportation stops.
floor space at least 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by
to accessible parking and passenger loading
1220 mm) that allows a person in a wheel-
zones, and to public streets or sidewalks if
chair to make a parallel approach to the unit
available (see 4.3:2(1)). They shall also be con-
(see Fig. 27(c) and (d)). This clear floor space
nected by an accessible route to all accessible
shall comply with 4.2.4.
spaces or elements within the building or
facility.
4.16 Water Closets.
4.14.2 Service Entrances. A service en-
4.16.1 General. Accessible water closets
trance shall not be the sole accessible
shall comply with 4.16.
entrance unless It is the only entrance to a
building or facility (for example, in a factory or
4.16.2 Clear Floor Space. Clear floor space
garage).
for water closets not in stalls shall comply
with Fig. 28. Clear floor space may be ar-
4.15 Drinking Fountains and Water
ranged to allow either a left-handed or
Coolers.
right-handed approach.
4.15.1* Minimum Number. Drinking foun-
4.16.3* Height. The height of water closets
tains or water coolers required to be accessible
shall be 17 in to 19 in (430 mm to 485 mm).
by 4.1 shall comply with 4.15.
measured to the top of the toilet seat (see Fig.
29(b)). Seats shall not be sprung to return to a
4.15.2* Spout Height. Spouts shall be no
lifted position.
higher than 36 in (915 mm). measured from
the floor or ground surfaces to the spout out-
4.16.4* Grab Bars. Grab bars for water clos-
let (see Fig. 27(a)).
ets not located in stalls shall comply with Fig.
29 and 4.26.
4.15.3 Spout Location. The spouts of
drinking fountains and water coolers shall be
4.16.5* Flush Controls. Flush controls
at the front of the unit and shall direct the
shall be hand operated or automatic and shall
comply with 4.27.4. Controls for flush valves
37
2364
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.17 Toilet Stalls
shall be mounted on the wide side of toilet
4.17 Toilet Stalls.
areas no more than 44 in (1120 mm) above
the floor.
4.17.1 Location. Accessible toilet stalls
shall be on an accessible route and shall meet
4.16.6 Dispensers. Toilet paper dispensers
the requirements of 4.17.
shall be installed within reach, as shown in
Fig. 29(b). Dispensers that control delivery, or
4.17.2 Water Closets. Water closets in ac-
that do not permit continuous paper flow. shall
cessible stalls shall comply with 4.16.
not be used.
17-19
430-485
48 min
1220
17-19
430- 485
0
9 min
27 min.
36 max
qp
230
685
915
30mm
760
The
G
8 min
6 max
24 max
205
150
610
equipment permitted in shaded area
(a)
(b)
Spout Height and
Clear Floor Space
Knee Clearance
30 min
30 min
not to exceed
760
760
fountain depth
48 min
1220
48 min
1220
(c)
(d)
Free-Standing
Built-In
Fountain or Cooler
Fountain or Cooler
Fig. 27
Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers
38
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2365
4.17 Toilet Stalls
36 min
915
36 min
18
915
18min
455
455
18
18min
42 min
18
455
455
1065
455
!av
lav
66
1675
56min
56
1420
56min
1420
clear
clear
clear
floor
floor
floor
space
space
space
48 min
60min
48 min
1220
1525
1220
Possible
Fig. 28
wall locations
Clear Floor Space at Water Closets
36 min
54 min
915
1370
12
min
12 min
12
42min
305
305
305
1065
toilet
paper
c
8
com
17-19
430-485
19 min
485
33-36
840 915
(a)
Back Wall
Fig. 29
(b)
Side Wall
Grab Bars at Water Closets
4.17.3 Size and Arrangement. The size
4.17.4 Toe Clearances. In standard stalls.
and arrangement of toilet stalls shall comply
the front partition and at least one side parti-
with Fig. 30(a). Toilet stalls with a minimum
tion shall provide a toe clearance of at least 9
depth of 56 in (1420 mm) (see Fig. 30(a)) shall
In (230 mm) above the floor. If the depth of
have wall-mounted water closets. If the depth of
the stall is greater than 60 in (1525 mm). then
toilet stalls is increased at least 3 in (75 mm).
the toe clearance is not required.
then a floor-mounted water closet may be used.
Arrangements shown for stalls may be reversed
4.17.5* Doors. Tollet stall doors shall com-
to allow either a left- or right-hand approach.
ply with 4.13. If tollet stall approach is from the
latch side of the stall door, clearance between
EXCEPTION: In Instances of alteration work
the door side of the stall and any obstruction
where provision of a standard stall (Fig. 30(a))
may be reduced to a minimum of 42 tn (1065
is technically tnfeasible or where plumbing
mm).
code requirements prevent combining existing
stalls to provide space, an alternate stall (Fig.
30(b)) may be provided in lieu of the standard
4.17.6 Grab Bars. Grab bars complying
stall.
with the length and positioning shown in Fig.
30(a), (b). (c). and (d) shall be provided. Grab
bars may be mounted with any destred
39
2366
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.17 Toilet Stalls
4 max
32 min
36 min
100
815
alternate
915
door location
4max
18
455
100
32
815
36 min
60
1525
60
1525
965
clear
floor
18
455
space
12 max
6max
150
305
52min
1320
56min
W wall mounted W.C.
56min
W wall mounted W.C.
1420
42 min latch
1420
59min
W. 115. mounted W C.
59min
W. fir mounted W.C
approach only,
1500
1500
other approaches
48 min
(a)
(a-1)
Standard Stall
Standard Stail (end of row)
42 min
12 max . A ,
1065
305
36 min
915
32
518
36
915
18
455
8
12 max
33-36
840 840-915 915
305
54 min
1370
(c)
42 min
66min
W. wall mounted W.C.
Rear Wall of Standard Stall
1065
1675
69 min
W. fir. mounted W.C.
1745
alternate
12 max
40|42| min
305
1015 (1065)
32
815
48
1220
36 max
915
18
455
toilet paper
42 min latch
approach only,
12 max
33-36
840 915 840-915
other approaches
305
17-19
430-485
19 min
485
48 min
54 min
1370
(b)
(d)
Alternate Stalls
Fig. 30
Side Walls
Toilet Stalls
40
Federal Register / Vol: 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 I Proposed Rules
2387
4.19 Lavatories and Mirrors
method as long as they have a gripping sur-
insulated or otherwise covered. There shall be
face at the locations shown and do not
no-sharp or abrasive surfaces under lavatories.
obstruct the required clear floor area. Grab
bars shall comply with 4.26.
4.19.5 Faucets. Faucets shall comply with
4.27.4. Lever-operated. push-type, and elec-
4.18 Urinals.
tronically controlled mechanisms are
examples of acceptable designs. Self-cibsing
4.18.1 General. Accessible urinals shall
valves are allowed if the faucet remains open
comply with 4.18.
for at least 10 seconds.
4.18.2 Height. Urinals shall be stall-type or
4.19.6* Mirrors. Mirrors shall be mounted
wall-hung with an elongated rim at a maxi-
with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface
mum of 17 in (430 mm) above the floor.
no higher than 40 in (1015- mm) from the floor
(see Fig. 31).
4.18.3 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor
space 30 in by 48 In (760 mm by 1220 mm)
shall be provided In front of urinals to allow
forward approach. This clear space shall ad-
join or overlap an accessible route and shall
comply with 4.2.4. Urinal shields that do not
extend beyond the front edge of the urtnal rtm
may be provided with 29 in (735 mm/ clear-
ance between them.
4.18.4 Flush Controls. Flush controls
shall be hand operated or automatic, and shall
comply with 4.27.4. and shall be mounted no
230
27 min
6
685
29 20min
735
40 max
1015
more than 44 in (1120 mm) above the floor.
4.19 Lavatories and Mirrors.
6max
toe
150
clearance
4.19.1 General. The requirements of 4.19
knee
8min
clearance 205
shall apply to lavatory fixtures. vanities. and
Amin depth
built-in lavatories.
430
Fig. 31
4.19.2 Height and Clearances. Lavatories
Lavatory Clearances
shall be mounted with the rim or counter sur-
face no higher than 34 tn (865 mml above the
finished floor. Provide a clearance of at least 29
17 min
in (735 mm) from the floor to the bottom of the
430
apron. Knee and toe clearance shall comply
with Fig. 31.
30 30min
clear
Noor
4.19.3 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor
760
space
o
space 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by 1220 mm)
complying with 4.2.4 shall be provided in front
of a lavatory to allow forward approach. Such
clear floor space shall adjoin or overlap an ac-
cessible route and shall extend a maximum of
48 min
1220
19 in (485 mm) underneath the lavatory (see
Fig. 32).
Fig. 32
Clear Floor Space at Lavatories
4.19.4 Exposed Pipes and Surfaces. Hot
water and drain pipes under lavatories shall be
41
2368
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.20 Bathtubs
4.20 Bathtubs.
structural strength of seats and their attach-
ments shall comply with 4.26.3.
4.20.1 General. Accessible bathtubs shall
comply with 4.20.
4.21.4 Grab Bars. Grab bars complying
with 4.26 shall be provided as shown in Fig.
4.20.2 Floor Space. Clear floor space in
37.
front of bathtubs shall be as shown in Fig. 33.
4.21.5 Controls. Faucets and other con-
4.20.3 Seat. An in-tub seat or a seat at the
trols complying with 4.27.4 shall be located as
head end of the tub shall be provided as
shown in Fig. 37. In shower stalls 36 in by 36
shown in Fig. 33 and 34. The structural
in (915 mm by 915 mm). all controls, faucets,
strength of seats and their attachments shall
and the shower unit shall be mounted on the
comply with 4.26.3. Seats shall be mounted se-
side wall opposite the seat
curely and shall not slip during use.
4.21.6 Shower Unit A shower spray unit
4.20.4 Grab Bars. Grab bars complying
with a hose at least 60 in (1525 mm) long that
with 4.26 shall be provided as shown in Fig.
can be used as a fixed shower head or as a
33 and 34.
hand-held shower shall be provided.
4.20.5 Controls. Faucets and other con-
EXCEPTION: In unmonitored facilities where
trols complying with 4.27.4 shall be located as
vandalism is a consideration, a fixed shower
shown in Fig. 34.
head mounted at 48 in (1220 mm) above the
shower floor may be used in lieu of a hand-
4.20.6 Shower Unit. A shower spray unit
held shower head.
with a hose at least 60 in (1525 mm) long that
can be used as a fixed shower head or as a
4.21.7 Curbs. If provided. curbs in shower
hand-held shower shall be provided.
stalls 36 in by 36 in (915 mm by 915 mm)
shall be no higher than 1/2 in (13 mm).
4.20.7 Bathtub Enclosures. If provided.
Shower stalls that are 30 in by 60 in (760 mm
enclosures for bathtubs shall not obstruct con-
by 1525 mm) shall not have curbs.
trols or transfer from wheelchairs onto
bathtub seats or into tubs. Enclosures on
4.21.8 Shower Enclosures. If provided. en-
bathtubs shall not have tracks mounted on
closures for shower stalls shall not obstruct
their rims.
controls or obstruct transfer from wheelchairs
onto shower seats.
4.21 Shower Stalls.
4.22 Toilet Rooms.
4.21.1* General. Accessible shower stalls
shall comply with 4.21.
4.22.1 Minimum Number. Toilet facilities
required to be accessible by 4.1 shall comply
4.21.2 Size and Clearances. Shower stall
with 4.22. Accessible toilet rooms shall be on
an accessible route.
size and clear floor space shall comply with
Fig. 35(a) or (b). The shower stall in Fig. 35(a)
shall be 36 in by 36 in (915 mm by 915 mm).
4.22.2 Doors. All doors to accessible toilet
The shower stall in Fig. 35(b) will fit into the
rooms shall comply with 4.13. Doors shall not
space required for a bathtub.
swing into the clear floor space required for
any fixture.
4.21.3 Seat. A seat shall be provided in
shower stalls 36 in by 36 in (915 mm by 915
4.22.3 Clear Floor Space. The accessible
mm) and shall be as shown in Fig. 36. The
fixtures and controls required in 4.22.4,
seat shall be mounted 17 in to 19 in (430 mm
4.22.5, 4.22.6, and 4.22.7 shall be on an ac-
to 485 mm) from the bathroom floor and shall
cessible route. An unobstructed turning
extend the full depth of the stall. The seat
space complying with 4.2.3 shall be provided
shall be on the wall opposite the controls. The
within an accessible toilet room. The clear
42
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2369
4.20 Bathtabs
15
380
back
seat
seat
foot
head
seat
30min
clear
floor
lav
760
lav
space:
8 min
30 30min
760
clear
lav
floor
1220
clear
space
floor
space
60 min
1525
SYMBOL KEY:
60 min.
75 min
1525
1905.
Shower controls
Shower head
(a)
(b)
Drain
With Seat in Tub
With Seat at Head of Tub
Flg. 33
Clear Floor Space at Bathtubs
24 min
610
24min
610
12max
24max
12min
305
610
308
control
a
0
area
OF
o
33-36
910 840-910
seal
6
230
foot
back
head
(a)
With Seat in Tub
24 min
610
48min
1220
12max
15 max
305
380
control
я
area
a
G
33-36
835-915
9
225
foot
back
head
(b)
With Seat at Head of Tub
Fig. 34
Grab Bars at Bathtubs
43
2370
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.23 Bathrooms, Bathing Facilities, and Shower Rooms
floor space at fixtures and controls. the acces-
each shall be on an accessible route and shall
sible route, and the turning space may overlap.
comply with 4.27.
4.22.4 Water Closets. If toilet stalls are
4.23 Bathrooms, Bathing Facilities,
provided, then at least one shall comply with
and Shower Rooms.
4.17; its water closet shall comply with 4.16. If
water closets are not in stalls, then at least
4.23.1 Minimum Number. Bathrooms,
one shall comply with 4.16.
bathing facilities, or shower rooms required to
be accessible by 4.1 shall comply with 4.23
4.22.5 Urinals. If urinals are provided. then
and shall be on an accessible route.
at least one shall comply with 4.18.
4.23.2 Doors. Doors to accessible bathrooms
4.22.6 Lavatories and Mirrors. If lavato-
shall comply with 4.13. Doors shall not swing
ries and mirrors are provided. then at least
into the floor space required for any fixture.
one of each shall comply with 4.19.
4.23.3 Clear Floor Space. The accessible
4.22.7 Controls and Dispensers. If con-
fixtures and controls required in 4.23.4,
trols. dispensers, receptacles, or other
4.23.5, 4:23.6, 4.23.7, 4.23.8, and 4.23.9
equipment are provided. then at least one of
shall be on an accessible route. An unob-
36
915
back
control wall
36
915
side
side
30min
716
seat
wall
36 min
lav
915
36
915
60
48
1220
1220
(a)
(b)
36-In by 36-In
30-in by 60-in
(915-mm by 915-mm) Stall
(760-mm by 1525-mm) Stall
Fig. 35
Shower Size and Clearances
44
Federal Register / Vol. 56. No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2371
4.23 Bathrooms, Bathing Facilities, and Shower Rooms
23 max
structed turning space complying with 4.2.3
582
shall be provided within an accessible bath-
room. The clear floor spaces at futures and
controls, the accessible route, and the turning
space may overlap.
1.1/2 max
15 max
305
4.23.4 Water Closets. If toilet stalls are
provided, then at least one shall comply with
38
4.17; its water closet shall comply with 4.16. If
full depth of stall
water closets are not in stalls, then at least
one shall comply with 4.16.
1-1/2 max
4.23.5 Urinals. If urinals are provided. then
38
at least one shall comply with 4.18.
4.23.6 Lavatories and Mirrors. If lavato-
ries and mirrors are provided, then at least
16 max
one of each shall comply with 4.19.
330
Fig. 36
Shower Seat Design
18
455
control
Drea
18
455
18
455
33-36
840-915
33-36
840 915
38 max
965
48 max 48max
1220
seat wall
back
control wall
(a)
36-in by 36-in (915-mm by 915-mm) Stall
18
455
control
area
G
33-36
840-915
33-36
640-915
38 max
965
48 max
1220
side
back
control wall
(b)
30-In by 60-in (760-mm by 1525-mm) Stall
Fig. 37
Grab Bars at Shower Stalls
45
2372
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.25 Storage
4.23.7 Controls and Dispensers. If con-
trols, dispensers, receptacles, or other
equipment are provided. then at least one of
each shall be on an accessible route and shall
comply with 4.27.
4.23.8 Bathing and Shower Facilities. If
tubs or showers are provided, then at least
one accessible tub that complies with 4.20 or
at least one accessible shower that complies
with 4.21 shall be provided.
54max
4.23.9* Medicine Cabinets. If medicine
1370
54 max
1370
adjustable range
cabinets are provided. at least one shall be lo-
cated with a usable shelf no higher than 44 in
380
11max
(1120 mm) above the floor space. The floor
535
space shall comply with 4.2.4.
4.24 Sinks.
Fig. 38
4.24.1 General. Sinks required to be accessi-
Storage Shelves and Closets
ble by 4.1 shall comply with 4.24.
4.24.2 Height. Sinks shall be mounted with
the counter or rim no higher than 34 in (865
mm) from the floor.
4.25 Storage.
4.24.3 Knee Clearance. Knee clearance
4.25.1 General. Fixed storage facilities such
that is at least 27 in (685 mm) high, 30 in
as cabinets. shelves, closets, and drawers re-
(760 mm) wide, and 19 in (485 mm) deep shall
quired to be accessible by 4.1 shall comply
be provided underneath sinks.
with 4.25.
4.24.4 Depth. Each sink shall be a maxi-
4.25.2 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor
mum of 6-1/2 in (165 mm) deep.
space at least 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by 1220
mm) complying with 4.2.4 that allows either a
4.24.5 Clear Floor Space. A clear floor
forward or parallel approach by a person using
space at least 30 in by 48 in (760 mm by 1220
a wheelchair shall be provided at accessible
mm) complying with 4.2.4 shall be provided in
storage facilities.
front of a sink to allow forward approach. The
clear floor space shall be on an accessible
4.25.3 Height. Accessible storage spaces
route and shall extend a maximum of 19 in
shall be within at least one of the reach ranges
(485 mm) underneath the sink (see Fig. 32).
specified in 4.2.5 and 4.2.6. Clothes rods shall
be a maximum of 54 in (1370 mm) from the
4.24.6 Exposed Pipes and Surfaces. Hot
floor (see Fig. 38).
water and drain pipes exposed under sinks
shall be insulated or otherwise covered. There
4.25.4 Hardware. Hardware for accessible
shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under
storage facilities shall comply with 4.27.4.
sinks.
Touch latches and U-shaped pulls are
acceptable.
4.24.7 Faucets. Faucets shall comply with
4.27.4. Lever-operated. push-type, touch-
type. or electronically controlled mechanisms
are acceptable designs.
46
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules
2373
4.27 Controls and Operating Mechanisms
4.26 Handrails, Grab Bars, and Tub
withdrawal load between the fastener and the
and Shower Seats.
supporting structure.
4,26.1* General. All handralls, grab bars,
(5) Grab bars shall not rotate within their
and tub and shower seats required to be acces-
fittings.
sible by 4.1. 4.8, or 4.9 shall comply with 4.26.
4.26.4 Eliminating Hazards. A handrall
4.26.2* Size and Spacing of Grab Bars
or grab bar and any wall or other surface adja-
and Handrails. The diameter or width of the
cent to It shall be free of any sharp or abrasive
gripping surfaces of a handrall or grab bar
elements. Edges shall have a minimum radius
shall be 1-1/4 in to 1-1/2 in (32 mm to 38
of 1/8 in (3.2 mm).
mm). or the shape shall provide an equivalent
gripping surface. If handrails or grab bars are
4.27 Controls and Operating
mounted adjacent to a wall, the space between
Mechanisms.
the wall and the grab bar shall be 1-1/2 In (38
mm) (see Fig. 39(a). (b). and (c)). Handrails
4.27.1 General. Controls and operating
may be located in a recess If the recess is a
mechanisms required to be accessible by 4.1
maximum of 3 in (75 mm) deep and extends at
shall comply with 4.27.
least 18 in (455 mm) above the top of the rall
(see Fig. 39(d)).
4.27.2 Clear Floor Space. Clear floor space
complying with 4.2.4 that allows a forward or
4.26.3 Structural Strength. The struc-
a parallel approach by a person using a wheel-
tural strength of grab bars, tub and shower
chair shall be provided at controls, dispensers.
seats. fasteners, and mounting devices shall
receptacles. and other operable equipment.
meet the following specification:
4.27.3* Height. The highest operable part
(1) Bending stress in a grab bar or seal In-
of controls. dispensers, receptacles. and other
duced by the maximum bending moment from
operable equipment shall be placed within at
the application of 250 lbf (1112N) shall be less
least one of the reach ranges specified in 4.2.5
than the allowable stress for the material of
and 4.2.6. Except where the use of special
the grab bar or seat.
equipment dictates otherwise, electrical and
communications system receptacles on walls
(2) Shear stress induced in a grab bar or
shall be mounted no less than 15 in (380 mm)
seat by the application of 250 lbf (1112N) shall
above the floor.
be less than the allowable shear stress for the
material of the grab bar or seat. If the connec-
4.27.4 Operation. Controls and operating
tion between the grab bar or seat and Its
mechanisms shall be operable with one hand
mounting bracket or other support is con-
and shall not require tight grasping. pinching,
sidered to be fully restrained. then direct and
or twisting of the wrist. The force required to
torsional shear stresses shall be totaled for the
activate controls shall be no greater than 5 lbf
combined shear stress. which shall not exceed
(22.2 N).
the allowable shear stress.
4.28 Alarms
(3) Shear force Induced in a fastener or
mounting device from the application of 250
lbf (1112N) shall be less than the allowable lat-
4.28.1 General. Alarm systems required to
eral load of either the fastener or mounting
be accessible by 4.1 shall comply with 4.28. Vt-
device or the supporting structure, whichever
sual signal appliances shall be provided. at a
is the smaller allowable load.
minimum, in each of the following areas:
restrooms and any other general usage areas
(4) Tensile force Induced in a fastener by a
(e.g., copier rooms), hallways. lobbles. or any
direct tension force of 250 lbf (1112N) plus the
other area for common use.
maxtmum moment from the application of 250
Ibf (1112N) shall be less than the allowable
4,28.2* Audible Alarms. If provided. audi-
ble emergency alarms shall produce a sound
47
2374
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.28 Alarms
114-11/2
1½
11/4-1½
1½
32-38
38
32-38
38
8
(a)
(b)
Handrall
Handrall
18 min
455
1½-1½
32-38
1½
38
1½
38
1½.1½
1½
32-38
38
1½-1½
1½
32-38
38
(c)
(e)
Handrall
Grab Bar
(d)
Handrall
Fig. 39
Size and Spacing of Handrails and Grab Bars
that exceeds the prevailing equivalent sound
4.28.3* Visual Alarms. Visual alarm signal
level in the room or space by at least 15 deci-
appliances shall be integrated tnto the building
bels or exceeds any maximum sound level
or facility alarm system. If single station audi-
with a duration of 30 seconds by 5 decibels,
ble alarms are provided then stngle station
whichever is louder. Sound levels for alarm sig-
visual alarm signals shall be provided. Visual
nals shall not exceed 120 decibels.
alarm signals shall have the following mtni-
mum photometric and location features:
48
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2375
4.29 Detectable Warnings
(1) The lamp shall be a xenon strobe type.
The material used to provide contrast shall be
an integral part of the walking surface. Detect-
(2) The color shall be clear lle, unfiliered or
able warnings used on interior surfaces shall
clear filtered white light).
differ from adjotning walking surfaces in restl-
lency or sound-on-cane contact.
(3) The intensity shall be a minimum of 75
candela seconds and a maxtmum of 120 can-
4.29.3* Detectable Warnings on Doors
dela seconds.
To Hazardous Areas. Doors that lead to
areas that might prove dangerous (for exam-
(4) The flash rate shall be a minimum of 1 Hz
ple, doors to loading platforms, boiler rooms.
and a maximum of 3 Hz.
stages, and the like) shall be made identifiable
to the touch by a textured surface on the door
(5) The appliance shall be placed a minimum
handle, pull, or other operating hardware.
of 80 in above the highest floor level within the
This textured surface may be made by knurl-
space.
ing or roughening or by a material applied to
the contact surface. Such textured surfaces
(6) No place in any room shall be more than
shall not be provided for emergency exit doors
50 feet from the signal (in the horizontal plane).
or any doors other than those to hazardous
areas.
(7) No place in corridors or hallways shall be
more than 50 feet from the signal
4.29.4 Detectable Warnings at Stairs. All
stairs, except those in dwelling units, in en-
4.28.4* Auxiliary Alarms. Dwelling units
closed stair towers, or set to the side of the
and sleeping accommodations shall have a
path of travel shall have a detectable warning
visual alarm connected to the building emer-
at the top of stair runs to comply with 4.29.2.
gency alarm system or shall have a standard
The detectable warning shall be 36 in (915
110-volt electrical receptacle into which such
mm) deep and shall extend the width of the
an alarm can be connected. When visual
stair run. It shall be separated from the top
alarms are in place they shall be visible in all
stair edge by a distance equal to the width of
areas of the unit or room. Instructions for use
one tread.
of the auxiliary alarm or receptacle shall be
provided.
4.29.5 Detectable Warnings at Hazard-
ous Vehicular Areas. If a walk crosses or
4.29 Detectable Warnings
adjoins a frequently used vehicular way,
and if there are no curbs, railings, or other
4.29.1 General. Detectable warnings re-
elements detectable by a person who has a
quired to be accessible by 4.1 shall comply
severe vision impairment separating the pe-
with 4.29.
destrian and vehicular areas, the boundary
between the areas shall be defined by a contin-
4.29.2 Detectable Warnings on Walking
uous detectable warning which is 36 in (915
Surfaces. Detectable warnings shall consist of
mm) wide, complying with 4.29.2.
raised truncated domes with a diameter of nom-
inal 0.9 in (23 mm). a height of nominal 0.2 in
4.29.6 Detectable Warnings at Reflect-
(5 mm) and a center-to-center spacing of nomi-
ing Pools. The edges of reflecting pools
nal 2.35 in (60 mm) and shall contrast visually
shall be protected by railings, walls, curbs,
by 70 percent with adjoining surfaces. Contrast
or detectable warnings complying with 4.29.2.
in percent shall be determined by:
4.29.7* Standardization. Textured sur-
Contrast = |(B₁ - B₂)/B₁] x 100
faces for detectable door warnings shall be
consistent within a building. facility, site, or
where B₁ = light reflectance value (LRV) of
complex of buildings.
the lighter area
and B2, = light reflectance value (LRV) of the
darker area.
49
2376
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.30 Signage
4.30 Signage.
4.30.1* General. Signage required to be ac-
cessible by 4.1 shall comply with 4.30. Each
entrance which does not comply with 4.14
shall have signage which complies with 4.30 in-
dicating the location of the nearest accessible
entrance(s).
4.30.2* Character Proportion. Letters
and numbers on signs shall have a width-to-
height ratio between 3:5 and 1:1 and a
stroke-width-to-height ratio between 1:5 and
1:10.
4.30.3 Character Height and Letter
Spacing. Characters and numbers on signs
shall be sized according to the viewing dis-
tance from which they are to be read. The
(a)
minimum height is measured using an upper
Proportions
case "X".
Height Above
Minimum
Finished Floor
Character Height
&
Mounted above 66 in or
3 in (75 mm) minimum
suspended/projected
overhead in compliance
(b)
with 4.4.2
Display Conditions
Wall mounted within
1 in (25 mm) minimum
66 in of the floor
Building Directories
5/8 in (16 mm) minimum
mounted at any height
The spacing between letters shall be "wide" by
industry practice; generally, the space between
letters shall be 1/16 the height of upper case
letters.
4.30.4* Raised and Brailled Characters
and Pictorial Symbol Signs (Pic-
tograms). Letters and numerals shall be
raised 1/32 in, upper case, sans serif or sim-
ple serif type and shall be accompanied with
Grade 2 Braille. Raised characters shall be at
least 5/8 in (16 mm) high, but no higher than
2 in (50 mm). Pictograms shall be accompanied
by the equivalent verbal description placed di-
rectly below the pictogram. The border
dimension of the pictogram shall be 6 in (152
(c)
mm) minimum in height.
International TDD Symbol
Fig. 43
4.30.5* Finish and Contrast. The charac-
International Symbol of Accessibility
ters and background of signs shall be eggshell
and
(11 to 19 degree gloss on 60 degree glosst-
International TDD Symbol
50
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2377
4.30 Signage
meter). Characters shall be light on a dark
4.31.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A
background (or dark on a light background)
clear floor or ground space at least 30 in by 48
and contrast with their background by at least
in (760 mm by 1220 mm) that allows either a
70 percent. Contrast in percent shall be deter-
forward or parallel approach by a person using
mined by:
a wheelchair shall be provided at telephones
(see Fig. 44). The clear floor or ground space
Contrast = [(B₁ - B₂)/B₁] x 100
shall comply with 4.2.4. Bases, enclosures,
and fixed seats shall not impede approaches
where B₁ = light reflectance value (LRV) of the
to telephones by people who use wheelchairs.
lighter area
and B₂ = light reflectance value (LRV) of the
4.31.3* Mounting Height. The highest op-
darker area.
erable part of the telephone shall be within the
reach ranges specified in 4.2.5 or 4.2.6.
4.30.6 Mounting Location and Height.
Where permanent identification is provided for
4.31.4 Protruding Objects. Telephones
rooms and doorways, signs shall be installed
shall comply with 4.4.
on the wall adjacent to the latch side of the
door. Mounting height shall be between 54 and
4.31.5* Equipment for Hearing Impaired
66 in. Mounting location for such signage shall
People. Telephones shall be equipped with a
be such that a person may approach within 3
receiver that generates a magnetic field in the
in of signage without encountering protruding
area of the receiver cap. Volume controls shall
objects or standing within the swing of a door.
be provided in accordance with 4.1.3.
4.30.7 Symbols of Accessibility. Accessi-
4.31.6 Controls. Telephones shall have
ble facilities required to be identified by 4.1
pushbutton controls where service for such
shall use the international symbol of accessibil-
equipment is available.
tty. The symbol shall be displayed as shown in
Fig. 43(a). Telephones required to be accessible
4.31.7 Telephone Books. Telephone
by 4.1.3(17)(b). shall be identified by a sign con-
books. if provided, shall be located in a posi-
taining a depiction of a telephone handset with
tion that complies with the reach ranges
radiating sound waves. Telephones required to
specified in 4.2.5 and 4.2.6.
be accessible by 4.1.3 (17)(c) shall be identified
by the international TDD symbol (Fig 43(c)).
4.31.8 Cord Length. The cord from the tele-
Where TDDs are required, directional signage
phone to the handset shall be at least 29 in
indicating the location of the nearest TDD tele-
(735 mm) long.
phone shall be placed adjacent to all single
user or banks of telephones which do not con-
tain a TDD. Such directional signage shall
4.32 Seating, Tables, and Work
include the international TDD symbol
Surfaces.
4.32.1 Minimum Number. Fixed or built-
4.30.8 Illumination Levels. Illumination
levels on the sign surface shall be in the 100 to
in seating, tables, or work surfaces required to
300 lux range (10 to 30 footcandles) and shall
be accessible by 4.1 shall comply with 4.32.
be uniform over the sign surface. Signs shall be
located such that the illumination level on the
4.32.2 Seating. If seating spaces for people
surface of the sign is not significantly exceeded
in wheelchairs are provided at tables, count-
by the ambient light or visible bright lighting
ers, or work surfaces, clear floor space
source behind or' in front of the sign.
complying with 4.2.4 shall be provided. Such
clear floor space shall not overlap knee space
by more than 19 in (485 mm) (see Fig. 45).
4.31 Telephones.
4.32.3 Knee Clearances. If seating for peo-
4.31.1, General. Public telephones required to
be accessible by 4.1 shall comply with 4.31.
ple in wheelchairs is provided at tables.
counters, and work surfaces, knee spaces at
least 27 in (685 mm) high. 30 in (760 mm)
51
2378
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.31 Telephones
Any width
*
OR
0
27 or below
54 max
685
1366
30 min
760
10 max
255.
optional
post and
base
48 min
1220
Elevation
Plan
(a)
Side Reach Possible
see Plans
*
&
27or below
20 max
510
24 max
610
0
1220
20 max
510
48
more than 24
48 max
685
48
1220
610
1220
30 min
30
6 min
760
760
150
Elevation
Plans
*Height to highest operable
(b)
parts which are essential to
Forward Reach Required
basic operation of telephone.
Fig. 44
Mounting Heights and Clearances for Telephones
wide. and 19 in (485 mm) deep shall be pro-
4.33 Assembly Areas.
vided (see Fig. 45).
4.33.1 Minimum Number. Assembly and
4.32.4* Height of Work Surfaces. The
associated areas required to be accessible by
tops of tables and work surfaces shall be from
4.1 shall comply with 4.33.
28 in to 34 in (710 mm to 865 mm) from the
floor or ground.
4.33.2* Size of Wheelchair Locations.
Each wheelchair location shall provide mini-
mum clear ground or floor spaces as shown in
Fig. 46.
52
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2379
4.33 Assembly Areas
30
42
760
1065
48
1220
48
1220
accessible path of travel
48
1220
30
760
19
485
30
760
30
30
36
19
19
36
760
760
915
485
485
915
Fig. 45
Minimum Clearances for Seating and Tables
48 min
1220
60 min
1525
66 min
1675
66 min
1675
(a)
(b)
Forward or Rear Access
Side Access
Fig. 46
Space Requirements for Wheelchair
Seating Spaces in Series
53
2330
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
4.34 Automated Teller Machines.
4.33.3* Placement of Wheelchair
distance of the stage or playing area and shall
Locations. Wheelchair areas shall be an in-
have a complete view of the stage or playing
tegral part of any fixed seating plan and shall
area.
be dispersed throughout the seating area.
They shall adjoin an accessible route that also
4.33.7* Types of Listening Systems.
serves as a means of egress in case of emer-
Audio loops and radio frequency systems are
gency and shall be located to provide lines of
two acceptable types of listening systems.
sight comparable to those for all viewing areas.
4.34 Automated Teller Machines.
EXCEPTION: Accessible viewing positions may
be clustered for bleachers, balconies, and other
4.34.1 General. Each machine required to be
areas having sight lines that require slopes of
accessible by 4.1.3 shall comply with 4.34.
greater than 5 percent. Equivalent accessible
viewing positions may be located on levels
4.34.2 Controls. Controls for user activation
having accessible egress.
shall comply with the requirements of 4.27.
4.33.4 Surfaces. The ground or floor at
4.34.3 Clearances and Reach Range.
wheelchair locations shall be level and shall
Free standing or built-in units not having a
comply with 4.5.
clear space under them shall comply with 4.27
and provide for a parallel approach and both a
4.33.5 Access to Performing Areas. An
forward and side reach to the unit allowing a
accessible route shall connect wheelchair seat-
person in a wheelchatr to access the controls
ing locations with performing areas, including
and dispensers.
stages. arena floors, dressing rooms, locker
rooms, and other spaces used by performers.
4.34.4 Equipment for Persons with
Vision Impairments. Instructions and all
4.33.6* Placement of Listening
information for use shall be made accessible to
Systems. If the listening system provided
and independently usable by persons with
serves individual fixed seats, then such seats
vision impairments.
shall be located within a 50 ft (15 m) viewing
54
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2381
5.0 Restaurants and Cafeterias
NOTE: Sections 4.1.1 through 4.1.7 and sec-
ple with disabilities. In alterations, accessibil-
tions 5 through 10 are different from ANSI
ity to raised or sunken dining areas, or to all
A117.1 in their entirety and are printed in
parts of outdoor seating areas is not required
standard type.
provided that the same services and decorative
character are provided in an accessible space
5.
Restaurants and Cafeterias
usable by the general public and not restricted
to use by people with disabilities.
5.3 Access Aisles. All accessible fixed ta-
5.1 General. Where fixed tables are pro-
vided, in addition to the requirements of 4.1 to
bles shall be accessible by means of an access
4.34, at least 5 percent, but no less than one,
aisle at least 36 in clear between parallel edges
of the fixed tables shall be accessible and shall
of tables or between a wall and the table edges.
comply with 4.32. In establishments where
separate areas are designated for smoking and
5.4 Food Service Lines. Food service lines
non-smoking patrons, the required number of
shall have a minimum clear width of 36 in, with
accessible fixed tables shall be proportionally
a preferred clear width of 42 in to allow passage
distributed between the smoking and non-
around a person using a wheelchair. Tray slides
smoking areas. In new construction, and
shall be mounted no higher than 34 in above
where practicable in alterations, accessible
the floor. If self-service shelves are provided, at
fixed tables shall be distributed throughout
least 50 percent of each type must be within
the space or facility.
reach ranges specified in-4.2.5 and 4.2.6.
5.2 Dining Areas. In new construction,
5.5 Counters and Bars. Where service of
raised or sunken dining areas, loggias, and
food or drink is provided at counters exceed-
outdoor seating areas shall be accessible. In
ing 34 in. in height to customers seated on
non-elevator buildings, if the area of mezza-
stools or standing, a portion of the main
nine seating measures no more than 33
counter shall be provided in compliance with
percent of the area of the accessible seating
4.32 or service shall be available at accessible
area, an accessible means of vertical access to
tables within the same area.
the mezzanine is not required provided that
the same services and decorative character are
5.6 Tableware and Condiment Areas.
provided in an accessible space usable by the
Self-service shelves and dispensing devices for
general public and not restricted to use by peo-
tableware, dishware, condiments, food and
beverages shall be installed to comply with 4.2.
36 min
915
P
54 max
1370
34 max
865
Fig. 54
Tableware Areas
Fig. 53
Food Service Lines
55
2382
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
7.0 Business and Mercantile
5.7 Raised Platforms. In banquet rooms or
6.2 Entrances. At least one accessible en-
spaces where the head table or speaker's lec-
tern is located on a raised platform, the
trance that complies with 4. 14 shall be
platform shall be accessible in compliance
protected from the weather by canopy or roof
with 4.8 or 4.11. Open edges of a raised plat-
overhang. Such entrances shall incorporate a
form shall be protected by placement of tables
passenger loading zone that complies with
4.6.5.
or by a curb.
5.8 Vending Machines and Other
6.3 Patient Bedrooms. Provide accéssible
patient bedrooms in compliance with 4.1
Equipment. Locations for vending machines
through 4.34. Accessible patient bedrooms
and other equipment shall be installed to com-
shall comply with the following:
ply with 4.2 and 4.27 and shall be located on
an accessible route.
(1) Each bedroom shall have a turning space
that complies with 4.2.3, and preferably that
6.
Medical Care Facilities
is located near the entrance.
(2) Each one-bed room shall have a minimum
6.1 General. Medical care facilities included
clear floor space of 36 in (915 mm) along each
in this section are those in which people have
side of the bed and 42 in (1065 mm) between
physical or medical treatment or care and
the foot of the bed and the wall.
where persons may need assistance in respond-
ing to an emergency and where the period of
(3) Each two-bed room shall have a minimum
residence may exceed twenty-four hours. In
clear floor space of 42 in (1065 mm), prefera-
addition to the requirements of 4.1 through
bly 48 in (1220 mm), between the foot of the
4.34, medical care facilities and buildings shall
bed and the wall, 36 in (915 mm) between the
comply with 6.
side of the bed and the wall. and 48 in (1220
mm) between beds.
hospitals
At least 10 percent of
general purpose hospitals
patient bedrooms
(4) Each four-bed room shall have a minimum
psychiatric facilities
and toilets, all public
clear floor space of 48 in (1220 mm) from the
detoxification facilities
use, common use,
foot of the bed to the foot of the opposing bed:
and employee use
36 in (915 mm) between the side of the bed
areas are required to
and the wall; and 48 in (1220 mm) between
be designed and con-
beds.
structed to be
accessible.
(5) Each bedroom shall have a door that com-
hospitals that specialize in
ALL patient bed-
plies with 4.13.
treating conditions that
rooms and toilets, all
affect mobility
public use, common
6.4 Patient Toilet Rooms. Provide each pa-
use, and employee
tient bedroom that is required to be accessible
use areas are re-
with an accessible tollet room that complies
quired to be designed
with 4.22 or 4.23.
and constructed to
be accessible.
7.
long term care facilities
Business and Mercantile
At least 50 percent of
nursing homes
patient bedrooms
and toilets, all public
7.1 General. In addition to the requirements
use, common use,
and employee use
of 4.1 to 4.34, the design of all areas used for
areas are required to
business transactions with the public shall
be designed and con-
comply with 7.
structed to be
accessible.
7.2 Sales and Service Counters, Teller
Windows, Information Counters. Where
counters exceeding 36 in (915 mm) in height
56
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2383
8.0 Libraries
are provided for sales or distribution of goods
or services to the public, a portion of the main
counter shall be provided with a maximum
height of between 28 in to 34 in (710 mm to
865 mm) above the floor in compliance with
36 min
4.32. In alterations, where it is technically in-
feasible to provide an accessible portion of the
915
main counter, an auxiliary counter meeting
these requirements may be provided.
7.3 Check-out Aisles. All check-out aisles
shall be accessible. Clear aisle width shall
comply with 4.2.1 and maximum adjoining
counter height shall not exceed 36 in (915
54 max
1370
mm) above the floor.
7.4 Security Bollards. Any device used to
18 min
455
prevent the removal of shopping carts from
store premises shall not prevent access or
egress to those in wheelchairs. An alternate
entry that is equally convenient to that pro-
vided for the ambulatory population is
acceptable.
Fig. 55
Card Catalog
8.
Libraries
8.1 General. In addition to the requirements
of 4.1 to 4.34, the design of all public areas of
a library shall comply with 8, including read-
ing and study areas, stacks, reference rooms,
36 min
reserve areas, and special facilities or collec-
915
tions. As provided elements such as public
toilet rooms, telephones, and parking shall be
accessible.
8.2 Reading and Study Areas. At least 5
percent or a minimum of one of each element
of fixed seating, tables, or study carrels shall
comply with 4.2 and 4.32. Clearances between
fixed accessible tables and study carrels shall
comply with 4.3.
8.3 Check-Out Areas. At least one lane at
each check-out area shall comply with 4.32.
Any traffic control or book security gates or
turnstiles shall comply with 4.13.
8.4 Card Catalogs. Minimum clear aisle
space at card catalogs, magazine, displays, or
reference stacks shall comply with Fig. 55.
Fig. 56
Maximum reach height shall comply with 4.2,
Stacks
with a height of 48 in (1220 mm) preferred irre-
spective of reach allowed.
57
2384
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
9.0 Accessible Transient Lodging
8.5 Stacks. Minimum clear aisle width be-
have the following accessible elements and
tween stacks shall comply with 4.3, with a
spaces.
minimum clear aisle width of 42 in (1065 mm)
preferred where possible. Shelf height in
(1) Accessible sleeping rooms shall have ma-
stack areas is unrestricted (see Fig. 56).
neuvering space complying with 4.2.3 located
along side of at least one side of at least one
bed.
9.
Accessible Transient
Lodging
(2) An accessible route complying with 4.3
shall connect all accessible spaces and ele-
ments including telephones within the unit,
9.0 Accessible Transient Lodging.
sleeping room or suite.
(1) Except as reserved below, accessible tran-
sient lodging shall comply with the appicable
(3) Doors and doorways designed to allow pas-
requirements of 4.1 through 4.34 and sections
sage into and within all sleeping rooms, suites
5, and 7. Transient lodging includes facilities
or other covered units shall comply with 4.13.
or portions thereof. used for sleeping accom-
modations, when not classed as a medical
(4) Storage in accessible units, sleeping rooms
care facility.
or sultes, including cabinets, shelves, closets
and drawers, shall comply with 4.25.
9.1 Hotels, Motels, Inns, Boarding
Houses, Dormitories, Resorts and
(5) All controls in accessible units, sleeping
Other Similar Places of Transient
rooms and suites shall comply with 4.27.
Lodging. All public use and common use
(6) Where provided as part of an accessible
areas and five percent, but never fewer than.
one, of each class of sleeping rooms or suites
unit, sleeping room or suite, the following
spaces shall be accessible and shall be on an
are required to be designed and constructed to
accessible route.
comply with section 4 and sections 9.2
through 9.3. An additional five percent of each
(a) the living area
class of sleeping rooms or suites, but never
fewer than one, shall comply with 9.3 (sleep-
(b) the dining area
ing accommodations for persons with hearing
impairments). All other rooms or suites shall
comply with 9.4 and shall be on an accessible
(c) at least one sleeping area
route.
(d) patios, terraces, balconies, carports,
EXCEPTION: Section 9 does not apply to an es-
garages or parking spaces
tablishment located within a building that
(e) at least one full bathroom (i.e., one with a
contains not more than five rooms for rent or
hire and that is actually occupied by the pro-
water closet, a lavatory, and a bathtub or
shower)
prietor of such establishment as the residence
of such proprietor.
(f) if only half baths are provided. at least
one half bath.
9.2 Accessible Units, Sleeping
Rooms and Suites.
(7) Kitchens, Kitchenettes, or Wet Bars. When
provided as accessory to a sleeping room or
9.2.1 General. Units, sleeping rooms and
suite, kitchens, kitchenettes, wet bars, or sim-
suites required to be accessible by 9.1 shall
ilar amenities shall be accessible. Clear floor
comply with 9.2.
space for a front or parallel approach to cabi-
nets, counters, sinks, and appliances shall be
9.2.2 Minimum Requirements. An acces-
provided to comply with 4.2.4. Countertops
sible unit. sleeping room or suite shall be on
and sinks shall be mounted at a maximum
an accessible route complying with 4.3 and
height of 34 in (865 mm) above the floor. At
least fifty percent of shelf space in cabinets or
58
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2385
9.0 Accessible Transient Lodging
refrigerator/freezers shall be within the reach
units or other covered units shall comply with
ranges of 4.2.5 or 4.2.6 and space shall be de-
4.13.5.
signed to allow for the operation of cabinet
and/or appliance doors SO that all cabinets
9.5 Transient Lodging in Homeless
and appliances are accessible and usable.
Shelters, Halfway Houses, Transient
Controls and operating mechanisms shall com-
ply with 4.27.
Group Homes, and Other Social Ser-
vice Establishments.
(8) Sleeping room accommodations for
persons with hearing impairments required by
9.5.1 New Construction. In new construc-
9.1 and complying with 9.3 shall be provided
tion all public use and common use areas are
in the accessible sleeping room or suite.
required to be designed and constructed to
comply with section 4. At least one of each
9.3 Sleeping Room Accommodations
type of amenity (such as washers, dryers and
for Persons with Hearing Impair-
similar equipment installed for the use of occu-
pants) in each common area shall be
ments. In sleeping rooms required to comply
accessible and shall be located on an accessi-
with this section, visual alarms shall be pro-
ble route to any accessible unit or sleeping
vided and shall comply with 4.28.4. Visual
accommodation.
notification devices shall also be provided in
sleeping rooms and suites to alert room occu-
9.5.2 Alterations. (Reserved).
pants of incoming telephone calls and a docr
knock or bell. Notification devices shall not be
connected to visual alarm signal appliances.
9.5.3. Accessible Sleeping Accommoda-
Permanently installed telephones shall have
tions. (Reserved).
volume controls.
10.
Transportation
9.4 Other Sleeping Rooms and
Suites. Doors and doorways designed to
Facilities. (Reserved).
allow passage into and within all sleeping
59
2386
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
APPENDIX
APPENDIX
This appendix contains additional information
that should help the designer to understand
the minimum requirements of the standard or
to design buildings or facilities for greater ac-
cessibility. The paragraph numbers
correspond to the sections or paragraphs of
the standard to which the material relates and
are therefore not consecutive (for example,
A4.2.1 contains additional information rele-
vant to 4.2.1). Sections for which additional
Flg. A1
material appears in this appendix have been
Minimum Passage Width for One Wheelchair
indicated by an asterisk.
and One Ambulatory Person
A4.2 Space Allowances and Reach
Ranges.
A4.2.1 Wheelchair Passage Width.
(1) Space Requirements for Wheelchairs.
mm) on either side for sway, and another 1 in
Most wheelchair users need a 30 in (760 mm)
(25 mm) tolerance on either side for clearing
clear opening width for doorways, gates. and
nearby objects or other pedestrians. Almost
the like. when the latter are entered head-on.
all wheelchair users and those who use walk-
If the wheelchair user is unfamiliar with a
ing aids can also manage within this 32 in
building. if competing traffic is heavy, if sud-
(815 mm) width for short distances. Thus,
den or frequent movements are needed. or if
two streams of traffic can pass in 64 in (1625
the wheelchair must be turned at an opening.
mm) in a comfortable flow. Sixty inches (1525
then greater clear widths are needed. For
mm) provide a minimum width for a somewhat
most situations, the addition of an inch of lee-
more restricted flow. If the clear width is less
way on either side is sufficient. Thus, a
than 60 in (1525 mm), two wheelchair users
minimum clear width of 32 in (815 mm) will
will not be able to pass but will have to seek a
provide adequate clearance. However, when
wider place for passing. Forty-eight inches
an opening or a restriction in a passageway is
(1220 mm) is the minimum width needed for
more than 24 in (610 mm) long. It is essen-
an ambulatory person to pass a nonambula-
tially a passageway and must be at least 36 in
tory or semiambulatory person. Within this
(915 mm) wide.
48 in (1220 mm) width, the ambulatory per-
son will have to twist to pass a wheelchair
(2) Space Requirements for Use of Walking
user, a person with a service animal or a semi-
Aids. Although people who use walking aids
ambulatory person. There will be little leeway
can maneuver through clear width openings of
for swaying or missteps (see Fig. Al).
32 in (815 mm). they need 36 in (915 mm)
wide passageways and walks for comfortable
A4.2.3 Wheelchair Turning Space. These
gaits. Crutch tips, often extending down at a
guideltnes spectfy a minimum space of 60 in
wide angle, are a hazard in narrow passage-
(1525 mm) diameter for a pivoting 180-degree
ways where they might not be seen by other
turn of a wheelchair. This space is usually sat-
pedestrians. Thus, the 36 in (915 mm) width
isfactory for turning around, but many people
provides a safety allowance both for the dis-
will not be able to turn without repeated tries
abled person and for others.
and bumping into surrounding objects. The
space shown in Fig. A2 will allow most wheel-
(3) Space Requirements for Passing.
chair users to complete U-turns without
Able-bodied people in winter clothing. walking
difficulty.
straight ahead with arms swinging, need 32 in
(815 mm) of width, which includes 2 in (50
60
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2387
A4.2 Space Allowances and Reach Ranges
A4.2.4 Clear Floor or Ground Space for
78min
Wheelchairs. The wheelchair and user
1965
shown in Fig. A3 represent typical dimensions
for a large adult male. The space require-
ments in this guideline are based upon
maneuvering clearances that will accommo-
date most wheelchairs. Fig. A3 provides a
Mr
60 min
uniform reference for design not covered by
this standard.
1525
A4.2.5 & A4.2.6 Reach. Reach ranges for
persons seated in wheelchairs may be further
clarified by Fig. A3(a). These drawings approx-
imate in the plan view information shown in
Fig. 4. 5. and 6 in other views.
Fig. A2
Space Needed for Smooth U-Tum in a Wheelchair
eye level
30
handle
desk am
amrest
lap
seat
31
M
redius
48
toe
Ma
760
485
43-51
1090-1295
0
%
19
lt
685
3
17
9
24
7
7
24
of
0'
30
26
099
conts
i
17
redius
48
42
6
1065
150
$
EN
NOTE: Footrests may extend further for very large people.
12
2
9
10
7
7
10
E
w
Y
Fig. A3
Dimensions of Adult-Sized Wheelchairs
Fig. A3 (a)
61
2388
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
A4.3 Accessible Route
A4.3 Accessible Route.
A4.3.1 General.
(1) Travel Distances. Many disabled people
can move at only very slow speeds; for many,
traveling 200 ft (61 m) could take about 2 min-
cane range
utes. This assumes a rate of about 1.5 ft/s
(455 mm/s) on level ground. It also assumes
that the traveler would move continuously.
However, on trips over 100 ft (30 m). disabled
people are apt to rest frequently. which sub-
27
$89
stantially increases their trip times. Resting
periods of 2 minutes for every 100 ft (30 m)
can be used to estimate travel times for people
with severely limited stamina. In inclement
6
6
weather, slow progress and resting can greatly
(150)
150
increase a disabled person's exposure to the el-
ements.
6
6
150
150
(2) Sites. Level, indirect routes or those with
running slopes lower than 1:20 can sometimes
provide more convenience than direct routes
with maximum allowable slopes or with ramps.
A4.3.10 Egress. In buildings where people
with disabilities are regularly employed or are
residents, an emergency management plan for
pace
their evacuation also plays an essential role in
fire safety.
A4.4 Protruding Objects.
09-93
915-1525
A4.4.1 General. Service animals are trained
to recognize and avoid hazards. However,
most people with severe impairments of vision
use the long cane as an aid to mobility. The
two principal cane techniques are the touch
technique, where the cane ares from side to
side and touches points outside both shoul-
Fig. A4
ders; and the diagonal technique, where the
Cane Technique
cane is held in a stationary position diagonally
across the body with the cane tip touching or
just above the ground at a point outside one
shoulder and the handle or grip extending to a
point outside the other shoulder. The touch
technique is used primarily in uncontrolled
areas, while the diagonal technique is used pri-
ing toward an object can detect an overhang if
marily in certain limited. controlled, and
its lowest surface is not higher than 27 in (685
familiar environments. Cane users are often
mm). When walking alongside projecting ob-
trained to use both techniques.
jects, they cannot detect overhangs. Since
proper cane and service animal techniques
Potential hazardous objects are noticed only if
keep people away from the edge of a path or
they fall within the detection range of canes
from walks, a slight overhang of no more than
(see Fig. A4). Visually impaired people walk-
4 in (100 mm) is not hazardous.
62
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22. 1991 / Proposed Rules.
2389
A4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces
A4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces.
vices often use, require higher clearances in
parking garages than automobiles. When op-
A4.5.1 General. Ambulant and semiambul-
tional van spaces are provided within a
ant people who have difficulty maintaining
garage, only the spaces themselves and a vehi-
balance and those with restricted gaits are par-
cle route to them require the specified
ticularly sensitive to slipping and tripping
clearances.
hazards. For such people, a stable and regu-
lar surface is necessary for safe walking.
A4.6.4 Signage. Signs designating parking
particularly on stairs. Wheelchairs can be pro-
places for disabled people can be seen from a
pelled most easily on surfaces that are hard,
driver's seat if the signs are mounted high
stable. and regular. Soft. loose surfaces such
enough above the ground and located at the
as shag carpet, loose sand, and wet clay. and
front of a parking space.
irregular surfaces, such as cobblestones, can
significantly impede wheelchair movement.
A4.8 Ramps.
Slip resistance is based on the frictional force
A4.8.1 General. Ramps are essential for
necessary to keep a shoe heel or crutch tip
wheelchair users if elevators or lifts are not
from slipping on a walking surface under the
available to connect different levels. However,
conditions of use likely to be found on the sur-
some people who use walking aids have diffi-
face. Although it is known that the static
culty with ramps and prefer stairs.
coefficient of friction is the basis of slip resis-
tance, there is not as yet a generally accepted
A4.8.2 Slope and Rise. The ability to man-
method to evaluate the slip resistance of walk-
age an incline is related to both its slope and
ing surfaces.
Its length. Wheelchair users with disabilities
affecting arms or with low stamina have seri-
Cross slopes on walks and ground or floor sur-
ous difficulty using inclines. Most ambulatory
faces can cause considerable difficulty in
people and most people who use wheelchairs
propelling a wheelchair In a straight line.
can manage a slope of 1:16. Many people can-
not manage a slope of 1:12 for 30 ft (9 m).
A4.5.3 Carpet. Much more needs to be done
Many people who have difficulty negotiating
in developing both quantitative and qualitative
very long ramps at relatively shallow slopes
criteria for carpeting. However. certain func-
can manage very short ramps at steeper
tional characteristics are well established.
slopes.
When both carpet and padding are used, It is
destrable to have minimum movement (prefera-
A4.8.5 Handrails. The requirements for
bly none) between the floor and the pad and
stair and ramp handrails in this standard are
the pad and the carpet which would allow the
for adults. When children are principal users
carpet to hump or warp. In heavily trafficked
In a building or facility. a second set of hand-
areas. a thick. soft (plush) pad or cushion. par-
rails at an appropriate height can assist them
ticularly in combination with long carpet pile.
and aid in preventing accidents.
makes It difficult for individuals in wheel-
chairs and those with other ambulatory
A4.10 Elevators.
disabilities to get about. This should not pre-
clude their use in specific areas where traffic
is light. Firm carpeting can be achieved
A4.10.6 Door Protective and Reopening
through proper selection and combination of
Device. The required door reopening device
pad and carpet sometimes with the elimina-
would hold the door open for 20 seconds if the
tion of the pad or cushion. and with proper
doorway remains obstructed. After 20 sec-
installation.
onds, the door may begin to close. However, if
designed in accordance with ANSI/ASME
A4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading
A17.1-1984, the door closing movement could
Zones.
still be stopped if a person or object exerts suf-
ficient force at any point on the door edge.
A4.6.3 Parking Spaces. High-top vans,
which disabled people or transportation ser-
63
2390
Federal Register / V.ol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22,1991 / Proposed Rules
A4.13 Doors
A4.10.7.Door and Signal Timing for Hall
maintenance by withstanding abuse from
Calls. This paragraph allows variation in the
wheelchairs and canes. To be effective, they
location of call buttons, advance time for warn-
should cover the door width, less approxi-
ing signals, and the door-holding period used
mately 2 in (51 mm), up to a height of 16 in
to meet the time requirement
(405 mm) from its bottom edge and be een-
tered across the top.
A4.10.12 Car Controls. Industry-wide
standardization of elevator control panel de-
A4.13.10 Door Closers. Closers with de-
sign would make all elevators significantly
layed action features give a person more time
more convenient for use by people with severe
to maneuver through doorways. They are par-
visual impairments.
ticularly useful on frequently used interior
doors such as entrances to tollet rooms.
In many cases, it will be possible to locate the
highest control on elevator panels within 48 in
A4.13.11 Door Opening Force. Although
(1220 mm) from the floor.
most people with disabilities can exert at least
5 lbf (22.2N), both pushing and pulling from a
A4.10.13 Car Position Indicators. A spe-
stationary position, a few people with severe
cial button may be provided that would
disabilities cannot exert even 3 lbf (13.3N). Al-
activate the audible signal within the given ele-
though some people cannot manage the
vator only for the desired trip, rather than
allowable forces in this guideline and many
maintaining the audible signal in constant op-
others have difficulty. door closers must have
eration.
certain minimum closing forces to close doors
satisfactorily. Forces for pushing or pulling
A4.10.14 Emergency Communications.
doors open are measured with a push-pull
A device that requires no handset is easier to
scale under the following conditions:
use by people who have difficulty reaching.
(1) Hinged doors: Force applied
A4.11 Platform Lifts.
perpendicular to the door at the door opener
or 30 in (760 mm) from the hinged side, which-
Platform lifts include porch lifts and other de-
ever is farther from the hinge.
vices used for short-distance, vertical
transportation of people in wheelchairs. At
(2) Sliding or folding doors: Force applied
the present time, generally recognized safety
parallel to the door at the door pull or latch.
standards for such lifts have not been devel-
oped. Care should be taken in selecting and
(3) Application of force: Apply force gradually
installing lifts to ensure that they are free from
SO that the applied force does not exceed the
hazards to users or to other individuals who
resistance of the door.
may be in the vicinity where they are being op-
erated.
In high-rise buildings, air-pressure
differentials may require a modification of this
A4.13 Doors.
specification in order to meet the functional
intent.
A4.13.8 Thresholds at Doorways. Thresh-
olds and surface height changes in doorways
A4.13.12 Automatic Doors and Power-
are particularly inconvenient for wheelchair
Assisted Doors. Sliding automatic doors do
users who also have low stamina or restric-
not need guard rails and are more convenient
tions in arm movement because complex
for wheelchair users and visually impaired peo-
maneuvering is required to get over the level
ple to use. If slowly opening automatic doors
change while operating the door.
can be reactuated before their closing cycle is
completed. they will be more convenient in
A4.13.9 Door Hardware. Some disabled
busy doorways.
persons must push against a door with their
chair or walker to open it. Applied kickplates
on doors with closers can reduce required
64
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules.
2391
A4.15 Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers
A4.15 Drinking Fountains and
ple. Higher seat heights may be an advantage
Water Coolers.
to some ambulatory disabled people but a dis-
advantage for wheelchair users and others.
A4.15.2 Drinking fountains with two spouts
Toilet seats 18 in (455 mm) high seem to be a
can assist both handicapped people and those
reasonable compromise. Thick seats and filler
people who find it difficult to bend over.
rings are available to adapt standard fixtures
to these requirements.
A4.16 Water Closets.
A4.16.4 Grab Bars. Fig. A5(a) and (b) show
A4.16.3 Height Preferences for tollet seat
the diagonal and side approaches most com-
heights vary considerably among disabled peo-
monly used to transfer from a wheelchair to a
18-30
18
455-780
455
1
2
3
4
Takes transfer position. swings
Removes armrest, transfers.
Moves wheelchair out of the
Positions on toilet, releases
footrest out of the way, sets
way, changes position (some
brake.
brakes.
people fold chair or pivot it
90° to the toilet).
(a)
Diagonal Approach
42
18
1
2
3
Takes transfer position, removes
Transfers.
Positions on toilet
armrest, sets brakes.
(b)
Side Approach
Fig. A5
Wheelchair Transfers
65
2392
Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
A 4.27 Controls and Operating Mechanisms
water closet Some wheelchair users can trans-
by wheelchair users because the shower area
fer from the front of the toilet while others use
provides additional maneuvering space.
a 90-degree approach. Most people who use
the two additional approaches can also use ei-
A4.23 Bathrooms, Bathing
ther the diagonal approach or the side
Facilities, and Shower Rooms.
approach.
A4.23.9 Medicine Cabinets. Other alterna-
A4.16.5 Flush Controls. Flush valves and
tives for storing medical and personal care
related plumbing can be located behind walls
items are very useful to disabled people.
or to the side of the toilet, or a toilet seat lid
Shelves, drawers, and floormounted cabinets
can be provided if plumbing fittings are di-
can be provided within the reach ranges of dis-
rectly behind the toilet seat Such designs
abled people.
reduce the chance of injury and imbalance
caused by leaning back against the flitings.
Flush controls for tank-type toilets have a
A4.26 Handrails, Grab Bars, and Tub
standardized mounting location on the left
and Shower Seats.
side of the tank (facing the tank). Tanks can
be obtained by special order with controls
A4.26.1 General. Many disabled people rely
mounted on the right side. If administrative
heavily upon grab bars and handrails to main-
authorities require flush controls for flush
tain balance and prevent serious falls. Many
valves to be located in a position that conflicts
people brace their forearms between supports
with the location of the rear grab bar, then
and walls to give them more leverage and sta-
that bar may be split or shifted toward the
bility in maintaining balance or for lifting. The
wide side of the toilet area.
grab bar clearance of 1-1/2 in (38 mm) re-
quired in this guideltne is a safety clearance to
A4.17 Toilet Stalls.
prevent injuries from arms slipping through
the opening. It also provides adequate grip-
A4.17.5 Doors. To make It easier for wheel-
ping room.
chair users to close toilet stall doors, doors
can be provided with closers, spring hinges, or
A4.26.2 Size and Spacing of Grab Bars
a pull bar mounted on the inside surface of
and Handrails. This specification allows for
the door near the hinge side.
alternate shapes of handrails as long as they
allow an opposing grip similar to that provided
A4.19 Lavatories and Mirrors.
by a circular section of 1-1/4 in to 1-1/2 in
(32 mm to 38 mm).
A4.19.6 Mirrors. If mirrors are to be used
by both ambulatory people and wheelchair
A4.27 Controls and Operating Mech-
users, then they must be at least 74 in (1880
anisms.
mm) high at their topmost edge. A single full
length mirror can accommodate all people, in-
A4.27.3 Height. Fig. A6 further illustrates
cluding children.
mandatory and advisory control mounting
height provisions for typical equipment. Note
A4.21 Shower Stalls.
distinction between built-in equipment (consid-
ered real property) and movable equipment
A4.21. 1 General. Shower stalls that are 36
(considered chattel and not covered by the Ar-
in by 36 in (915 mm by 915 mm) wide provide
chitectural Barriers Act of 1968).
additional safety to people who have difficulty
maintaining balance because all grab bars and
A4.28 Alarms.
walls are within easy reach. Seated people
use the walls of 36 in by 36 in (915 mm by
A4.28.2 Audible Alarms. Audible emer-
915 mm) showers for back support. Shower
gency signals must have an intensity and
stalls that are 60 in (1525 mm) wide and have
frequency that can attract the attention of indi-
no curb may increase usability of a bathroom
viduals who have partial hearing loss. People
over 60 years of age generally have difficulty
perceiving frequencies higher than 10,000 Hz.
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Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2393
A4.28 Alarms
required
preferred
required
preferred
cups
cups
vending
towels
towels
vending
0
48 max
15 min
controls
controls
1220
380
54 max
1370
9 min
230
(a)
(b)
Forward Reach Possible
Side Reach Possible
Fig. A6
Control Reach Limitations
A4.28.3 Visual Alarms. The specifications
A4.30 Signage.
in this section do not preclude the use of
zoned or coded alarm systems.
A4.30.1 General. In building complexes
where finding locations independently on a
A4.28.4 Auxillary Alarms. Locating visual
routine basis may be a necessity (for example,
emergency alarms in rooms where deaf individ-
college campuses), tactile maps or prerecorded
uals may work or reside alone can ensure that
instructions can be very helpful to visually im-
they will always be warned when an emer-
paired people. Several maps and auditory
gency alarm is activated. To be effective, such
instructions have been developed and tested
devices must be located and oriented SO that
for specific applications. The type of map or
they will spread signals and reflections
instructions used must be based on the infor-
throughout a space or raise the overall light
mation to be communicated, which depends
level sharply.
highly on the type of buildings or users.
A4.29 Detectable Warnings.
Landmarks that can easily be distinguished by
visually impaired individuals are useful as ori-
A4.29.3 Detectable Warnings on Doors
entation cues.
to Hazardous Areas. Tactile signals for
hand reception are useful if it is certain that
Such cues include changes in illumination
the signals will be touched.
level, bright colors. unique patterns, wall mu-
rals, location of special equipment or other
A4.29.7 Standardization. Too many tac-
architectural features (for example, an exterior
tile warnings or lack of standardization
view).
weakens their usefulness. Tactile signals can
also be visual signals to service animals, since
Many people with disabilities have limitations
animals can be trained to respond to a large
in movement of their heads and reduced pe-
variety of visual cues.
ripheral vision.
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Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday, January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
A4.30 Signage
Thus, signage positioned perpendicular to the
A.4.30.4 Raised and Brailled Charac-
path of travel is easiest for them to notice.
ters and Pictorial Symbol Signs
People can generally distinguish signage
(Pictograms). The standard dimensions for lit-
within an angle of 30 degrees to either side of
erary Braille are as follows:
the centerlines of their faces without moving
their head.
Dot diameter
.059 in
Inter-dot spacing
.090 in
A4.30.2 Character Proportion. The legi-
Horizontal separation
bility of printed characters is a function of the
between cells
.241 in
viewing distance, character height the ratio of
Vertical separation
the stroke width to the height of the character,
between cells
.395 in
the contrast of color between character and
background, and print font The size of charac-
Raised borders around raised characters may
ters must be based upon the intended viewing
make them confusing to read unless the bor-
distance. A severely nearsighted person may
der is set far away from the characters.
have to be much closer to see a character of a
Accessible signage with descriptive materials
given size accurately than a person with nor-
about public buildings, monuments, and ob-
mal visual acuity.
jects of cultural interest may not provide
sufficiently detailed and meaningful informa-
tion. Interpretive guides, audio tape devices. or
other methods may be more effective in pre-
senting such information.
A4.30.5 Finish and Contrast. The greatest
readability is usually achieved through the use
of light-colored characters or symbols on a
dark background.
A4.31 Telephones.
A4.31.3 Mounting Height. In localities
where the dial-tone first system is in opera-
tion, calls can be placed at a coin telephone
through the operator without inserting coins.
The operator button is located at a height of
46 in (1170 mm) if the coin slot of the tele-
phone is at 54 in (1370 mm).
A generally available public telephone with a
coin slot mounted lower on the equipment
would allow universal installation of tele-
phones at a height of 48 in (1220 mm) or less
to all operable parts.
A4.31.5 Equipment for Hearing
Impaired People. Other aids for people with
hearing impairments are telephones, tele-
printer, and other telephonic devices that can
be used to transmit printed messages through
telephone lines to a TDD.
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Federal Register / Vol. 56, No. 14 / Tuesday. January 22, 1991 / Proposed Rules
2395
A4.33 Assembly Areas
A4.32 Seating. Tables, and Work
Table A1
Surfaces.
Convenient Heights of
A4.32.4 Height of Work Surfaces. Differ-
Work Surfaces for Seated Peopleᵃ
ent types of work require different work
Short
Tall
surface heights for comfort and optimal perfor-
Women
Men
mance. Light detailed work such as writing
Conditions of Use
in mm
in
mm
requires a work surface close to elbow height
Seated in a wheelchair:
for a standing person. Heavy manual work
Manual work-
such as rolling dough requires a work surface
Desk or removable
height about 10 in (255 mm) below elbow
armrests
26
660
30
760
height for a standing person. The principle of
Fixed. full-size armrestsᵇ
32°
815
32°
815
a high work surface height for light detailed
Light detailed work:
Desk or removable
work and a low work surface for heavy manual
armrests
29
735
34
865
work also applies for seated persons: however,
Fixed. full-size armrests
32°
815
34
865
the limiting condition for seated manual work
Seated in a 16-in (405-mm)
is clearance under the work surface.
High chair:
Manual work
26
660
27
685
Table Al shows convenient work surface
Light detailed work
28
710
31
785
heights for seated persons. The great variety
of heights for comfort and optimal perfor-
"All dimensions are based on a work-surface thick-
mance indicates a need for alternatives or a
ness of 1-1/2 in (38 mm) and a clearance of 1-1/2 in
compromise in height If people who stand and
(38 mm) between legs and the underside of a work
surface
people who sit will be using the same counter
area.
This type of wheelchair arm does not interfere with
the positioning of a wheelchair under a work surface.
A4.33 Assembly Areas.
This dimension is limited by the height of the arm-
A4.33.2 Size of Wheelchair Locations.
rests: a lower height would be preferable. Some
Spaces large enough for two wheelchairs allow
people in this group prefer lower work surfaces,
people who are coming to a performance to-
which require positioning the wheelchair back from
the edge of the counter.
gether to sit together.
A4.33.3 Placement of Wheelchair
or those with hearing aids not equipped with
Locations. The location of wheelchair areas
inductive pickups cannot use them. Loops
can be planned SO that a variety of positions
can be portable and moved to various loca-
within the seating area are provided. This will
tions within a room. Moreover, for little cost
allow choice in viewing and price categories.
they can serve a large area within a seating
area. Radio frequency systems can be ex-
A4.33.6 Placement of Listening
tremely effective and inexpensive. People
Systems. A distance of 50 ft (15 m) allows a
without hearing aids can use them. but people
person to distinguish performers' facial
with hearing aids need custom-designed equip-
ment to use them as they are presently
expressions.
designed. If hearing aids had a jack to allow a
A4.33.7 Types of Listening Systems. A
by-pass of microphones, then radio frequency
systems would be suitable for people with and
listening system that can be used from any
without hearing aids. Some listening systems
seat in a seating area is the most flexible way
may be subject to interference from other
to meet this specification. Earphone Jacks
equipment and feedback from hearing aids of
with variable volume controls can benefit only
people who are using the systems. Such inter-
people who have slight hearing losses and do
ference can be controlled by careful
not help people with hearing aids. At the pres-
engineering design that anticipates feedback
ent time, audio loops are the most feastble
type of listening system for people who use
and sources of interference in the surrounding
area.
hearing aids, b'ut people without hearing aids
[FR Doc. 91-1355 Filed 1-18-91: 8:45 am)
69
BILLING CODE 8150-01-C