Complete Home & Office Legal Guide/Complete Home and Office Legal Guide (Chestnut) (1993).ISO/stat/eeoc/build4.asc

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/* Part 4 of 4 of accesibility requirements follow. */

A4.1.3 Accessible Buildings:  New Construction.

A4.1.3(5) Only full passenger elevators are covered by the
accessibility provisions of 4.10.  Materials and equipment
hoists, freight elevators not intended for passenger use,
dumbwaiters, and construction elevators are not covered by these
guidelines.  If a building is exempt from the elevator
requirement, it is not necessary to provide a platform lift or
other means of vertical access in lieu of an elevator.

Under Exception 4, platform lifts are allowed where existing
conditions make it impractical to install a ramp or elevator.
Such conditions generally occur where it is essential to provide
access to small raised or lowered areas where space may not be
available for a ramp.  Examples include, but are not limited to,
raised pharmacy platforms, commercial offices raised above a
sales floor, or radio and news booths.

A4.1.3(9) Supervised automatic sprinkler systems have built in
signals for monitoring features of the system such as the opening
and closing of water control valves, the power supplies for
needed pumps, water tank levels, and for indicating conditions
that will impair the satisfactory operation of the sprinkler
system.  Because of these monitoring features, supervised
automatic sprinkler systems have a high level of satisfactory
performance and response to fire conditions.

A4.1.3(10) If an odd number of drinking fountains is provided on
a floor, the requirement in 4.1.3(10)(b) may be met by rounding
down the odd number to an even number and calculating 50% of the
even number.  When more than one drinking fountain on a floor is
required to comply with 4.15, those fountains should be dispersed
to allow wheelchair users convenient access.  For example, in a
large facility such as a convention center that has water
fountains at several locations on a floor, the accessible water
fountains should be located so that wheelchair users do not have
to travel a greater distance than other people to use a drinking
fountain.

A4.1.3(17)(b) In addition to the requirements of section
4.1.3(17)(b), the installation of additional volume controls is
encouraged.  Volume controls may be installed on any telephone.

A4.1.3(19)(a) Readily removable or folding seating units may be
installed in lieu of providing an open space for wheelchair
users.  Folding seating units are usually two fixed seats that
can be easily folded into a fixed center bar to allow for one or
two open spaces for wheelchair users when necessary.  These units
are more easily adapted than removable seats which generally
require the seat to be removed in advance by the facility
management.

Either a sign or a marker placed on seating with removable or

folding arm rests is required by this section.  Consideration
should be given for ensuring identification of such seats in a
darkened theater.  For example, a marker which contrasts (light
on dark or dark on light) and which also reflects light could be
placed on the side of such seating so as to be visible in a
lighted auditorium and also to reflect light from a flashlight.

A4.1.6 Accessible Buildings: Alterations.

A4.1.6(1)(h) When an entrance is being altered, it is preferable
that those entrances being altered be made accessible to the
extent feasible.

A4.2 Space Allowances and Reach Ranges.

A4.2.1 Wheelchair Passage Width.

    (1)    Space Requirements for Wheelchairs.  Many persons who
use wheelchairs need a 30 in (760 mm) clear opening width for
doorways, gates, and the like, when the latter are entered
head-on.  If the person is unfamiliar with a building, if
competing traffic is heavy, if sudden or frequent movements are
needed, or if the wheelchair must be turned at an opening, then
greater clear widths are needed.  For most situations, the
addition of an inch of leeway on either side is sufficient.
Thus, a minimum clear width of 32 in (815 mm) will provide
adequate clearance.  However, when an opening or a restriction in
a passageway is more than 24 in (610 mm) long, it is essentially
a passageway and must be at least 36 in (915 mm) wide.

    (2)    Space Requirements for Use of Walking Aids.  Although
people who use walking aids can maneuver through clear width
openings of 32 in (815 mm), they need 36 in (915 mm) wide
passageways and walks for comfortable gaits.  Crutch tips, often
extending down at a wide angle, are a hazard in narrow
passageways where they might not be seen by other pedestrians.
Thus, the 36 in (915 mm) width provides a safety allowance both
for the person with a disability and for others.

    (3)    Space Requirements for Passing.  Able-bodied persons
in winter clothing, walking straight ahead with arms swinging,
need 32 in (815 mm) of width, which includes 2 in (50 mm) on
either side for sway, and another 1 in (25 mm) tolerance on
either side for clearing nearby objects or other pedestrians.
Almost all wheelchair users and those who use walking aids can
also manage within this 32 in (815 mm) width for short distances.
Thus, two streams of traffic can pass in 64 in (1625 mm) in a
comfortable flow.  Sixty inches (1525 mm) provides a minimum
width for a somewhat more restricted flow.  If the clear width is
less than 60 in (1525 mm), two wheelchair users will not be able
to pass but will have to seek a wider place for passing.
Forty-eight inches (1220 mm) is the minimum width needed for an
ambulatory person to pass a nonambulatory or semi-ambulatory
person.  Within this 48 in (1220 mm) width, the ambulatory person
will have to twist to pass a wheelchair user, a person with a
service animal, or a semi-ambulatory person.  There will be
little leeway for swaying or missteps (see Fig. A1).

A4.2.3 Wheelchair Turning Space.  These guidelines specify a
minimum space of 60 in (1525 mm) diameter or a 60 in by 60 in
(1525 mm by 1525 mm) T-shaped space for a pivoting 180-degree
turn of a wheelchair.  This space is usually satisfactory for
turning around, but many people will not be able to turn without
repeated tries and bumping into surrounding objects.  The space
shown in Fig. A2 will allow most wheelchair users to complete
U-turns without difficulty.

A4.2.4 Clear Floor or Ground Space for Wheelchairs.  The
wheelchair and user shown in Fig. A3 represent typical dimensions
for a large adult male.  The space requirements in this guideline
are based upon maneuvering clearances that will accommodate most
wheelchairs.  Fig. A3 provides a uniform reference for design not
covered by this guideline.

A4.2.5 & A4.2.6 Reach.  Reach ranges for persons seated in
wheelchairs may be further clarified by Fig. A3(a).  These
drawings approximate in the plan view the information shown in
Fig. 4, 5, and 6.

A4.3 Accessible Route.

A4.3.1 General.

    (1)    Travel Distances.  Many people with mobility
impairments can move at only very slow speeds; for many,
traveling 200 ft (61
m)    could take about 2 minutes.  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
substantially 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
weather, slow progress and resting can greatly increase a
disabled person's exposure to the elements.

    (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.  Because people with disabilities may visit, be
employed or be a resident in any building, emergency management
plans with specific provisions to ensure their safe evacuation
also play an essential role in fire safety and life safety.

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

A4.3.11.4 Two-way Communication.  It is essential that emergency
communication not be dependent on voice communications alone
because the safety of people with hearing or speech impairments
could be jeopardized.  The visible signal requirement could be
satisfied with something as simple as a button in the area of
rescue assistance that lights, indicating that help is on the
way, when the message is answered at the point of entry.

A4.4 Protruding Objects.

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
arcs from side to side and touches points outside both shoulders;
and the diagonal technique, where the 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 primarily in certain
limited, controlled, and familiar environments.  Cane users are
often trained to use both techniques.

Potential hazardous objects are noticed only if they fall within
the detection range of canes (see Fig.  A4).  Visually impaired
people walking toward an object can detect an overhang if its
lowest surface is not higher than 27 in (685 mm).  When walking
alongside protruding objects, they cannot detect overhangs.
Since proper cane and service animal techniques keep people away
from the edge of a path or from walls, a slight overhang of no
more than 4 in (100 mm) is not hazardous.

A4.5 Ground and Floor Surfaces.

A4.5.1 General.  People who have difficulty walking or
maintaining balance or who use crutches, canes, or walkers, and
those with restricted gaits are particularly sensitive to
slipping and tripping hazards.  For such people, a stable and
regular surface is necessary for safe walking, particularly on
stairs.  Wheelchairs can be propelled most easily on surfaces
that are hard, stable, and regular.  Soft loose surfaces such as
shag carpet, loose sand or gravel, wet clay, and irregular
surfaces such as cobblestones can significantly impede wheelchair
movement.

Slip resistance is based on the frictional force necessary to
keep a shoe heel or crutch tip from slipping on a walking surface
under conditions likely to be found on the surface.  While the
dynamic coefficient of friction during walking varies in a
complex and non-uniform way, the static coefficient of friction,
which can be measured in several ways, provides a close
approximation of the slip resistance of a surface.  Contrary to
popular belief, some slippage is necessary to walking, especially
for persons with restricted gaits; a truly "non-slip" surface
could not be negotiated.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends that
walking surfaces have a static coefficient of friction of 0.5.  A
research project sponsored by the Architectural and
Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) conducted
tests with persons with disabilities and concluded that a higher
coefficient of friction was needed by such persons.  A static
coefficient of friction of 0.6 is recommended for accessible
routes and 0.8 for ramps.

It is recognized that the coefficient of friction varies
considerably due to the presence of contaminants, water, floor
finishes, and other factors not under the control of the designer
or builder and not subject to design and construction guidelines
and that compliance would be difficult to measure on the building
site.  Nevertheless, many common building materials suitable for
flooring are now labeled with information on the static
coefficient of friction.  While it may not be possible to compare
one product directly with another, or to guarantee a constant
measure, builders and designers are encouraged to specify
materials with appropriate values.  As more products include
information on slip resistance, improved uniformity in
measurement and specification is likely.  The Access Board's
advisory guidelines on Slip Resistant Surfaces provides
additional information on this subject.

Cross slopes on walks and ground or floor surfaces can cause
considerable difficulty in propelling a wheelchair in a straight
line.

A4.5.3 Carpet.  Much more needs to be done in developing both
quantitative and qualitative criteria for carpeting (i.e.,
problems associated with texture and weave need to be studied).
However, certain functional characteristics are well established.
When both carpet and padding are used, it is desirable to have
minimum movement (preferably none) between the floor and the pad
and the pad and the carpet which would allow the carpet to hump
or warp.  In heavily trafficked areas, a thick, soft (plush) pad
or cushion, particularly in combination with long carpet pile,
makes it difficult for individuals in wheelchairs and those with
other ambulatory disabilities to get about.  Firm carpeting can
be achieved through proper selection and combination of pad and
carpet, sometimes with the elimination of the pad or cushion, and
with proper installation.  Carpeting designed with a weave that
causes a zig-zag effect when wheeled across is strongly
discouraged.

A4.6 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones.

A4.6.3 Parking Spaces.  The increasing use of vans with side-
mounted lifts or ramps by persons with disabilities has
necessitated some revisions in specifications for parking spaces
and adjacent access aisles. The typical accessible parking space
is 96 in (2440 mm) wide with an adjacent 60 in (1525 mm) access
aisle. However, this aisle does not permit lifts or ramps to be
deployed and still leave room for a person using a wheelchair or
other mobility aid to exit the lift platform or ramp. In tests
conducted with actual lift/van/wheelchair combinations, (under a
Board-sponsored Accessible Parking and Loading Zones Project)
researchers found that a space and aisle totaling almost 204 in
(5180 mm) wide was needed to deploy a lift and exit conveniently.
The "van accessible" parking space required by these guidelines
provides a 96 in (2440 mm) wide space with a 96 in (2440 mm)
adjacent access aisle which is just wide enough to maneuver and
exit from a side mounted lift.  If a 96 in (2440 mm) access aisle
is placed between two spaces, two "van accessible" spaces are
created. Alternatively, if the wide access aisle is provided at
the end of a row (an area often unused), it may be possible to
provide the wide access aisle without additional space (see Fig.
A5(a)).

A sign is needed to alert van users to the presence of the wider
aisle, but the space is not intended to be restricted only to
vans.

"Universal" Parking Space Design.  An alternative to the
provision of a percentage of spaces with a wide aisle, and the
associated need to include additional signage, is the use of what
has been called the "universal" parking space design.  Under this
design, all accessible spaces are 132 in (3350 mm) wide with a 60
in (1525 mm) access aisle (see Fig. A5(b)).  One advantage to
this design is that no additional signage is needed because all
spaces can accommodate a van with a side-mounted lift or ramp.
Also, there is no competition between cars and vans for spaces
since all spaces can accommodate either.  Furthermore, the wider
space permits vehicles to park to one side or the other within
the 132 in (3350 mm) space to allow persons to exit and enter the
vehicle on either the driver or passenger side, although, in some
cases, this would require exiting or entering without a marked
access aisle.

An essential consideration for any design is having the access
aisle level with the parking space. Since a person with a
disability, using a lift or ramp, must maneuver within the access
aisle, the aisle cannot include a ramp or sloped area. The access
aisle must be connected to an accessible route to the appropriate
accessible entrance of a building or facility. The parking access
aisle must either blend with the accessible route or have a curb
ramp complying with 4.7. Such a curb ramp opening must be located
within the access aisle boundaries, not within the parking space
boundaries. Unfortunately, many facilities are designed with a
ramp that is blocked when any vehicle parks in the accessible
space. Also, the required dimensions of the access aisle cannot
be restricted by planters, curbs or wheel stops.

A4.6.4 Signage.  Signs designating parking places for disabled
people can be seen from a driver's seat if the signs are mounted
high enough above the ground and located at the front of a
parking space.

A4.6.5 Vertical Clearance.  High-top vans, which disabled people
or transportation services often use, require higher clearances
in parking garages than automobiles.

A4.8 Ramps.

A4.8.1 General.  Ramps are essential for wheelchair users if
elevators or lifts are not available to connect different levels.
However, some people who use walking aids have difficulty with
ramps and prefer stairs.

A4.8.2 Slope and Rise.  Ramp slopes between 1:16 and 1:20 are
preferred.  The ability to manage an incline is related to both
its slope and its length.  Wheelchair users with disabilities
affecting their arms or with low stamina have serious difficulty
using inclines.  Most ambulatory people and most people who use
wheelchairs can manage a slope of 1:16.  Many people cannot
manage a slope of 1:12 for 30 ft (9 m).

A4.8.4 Landings.  Level landings are essential toward maintaining
an aggregate slope that complies with these guidelines.  A ramp
landing that is not level causes individuals using wheelchairs to
tip backward or bottom out when the ramp is approached.

A4.8.5 Handrails.  The requirements for stair and ramp handrails
in this guideline are for adults.  When children are principal
users in a building or facility, a second set of handrails at an
appropriate height can assist them and aid in preventing
accidents.

A4.9 Stairs.

A4.9.1 Minimum Number.  Only interior and exterior stairs
connecting levels that are not connected by an elevator, ramp, or
other accessible means of vertical access have to comply with
4.9.

A4.10 Elevators.

A4.10.6 Door Protective and Reopening Device.  The required door
reopening device would hold the door open for 20 seconds if the
doorway remains obstructed.  After 20 seconds, the door may begin
to close.  However, if designed in accordance with ASME
A17.1-1990, the door closing movement could still be stopped if a
person or object exerts sufficient force at any point on the door
edge.

A4.10.7 Door and Signal Timing for Hall Calls.  This paragraph
allows variation in the location of call buttons, advance time
for warning signals, and the door-holding period used to meet the
time requirement.

A4.10.12 Car Controls.  Industry-wide standardization of elevator
control panel design would make all elevators significantly more
convenient for use by people with severe visual impairments.  In
many cases, it will be possible to locate the highest control on
elevator panels within 48 in (1220 mm) from the floor.

A4.10.13 Car Position Indicators.  A special button may be
provided that would activate the audible signal within the given
elevator only for the desired trip, rather than maintaining the
audible signal in constant operation.

A4.10.14 Emergency Communications.  A device that requires no
handset is easier to use by people who have difficulty reaching.
Also, small handles on handset compartment doors are not usable
by people who have difficulty grasping.

Ideally, emergency two-way communication systems should provide
both voice and visual display intercommunication so that persons
with hearing impairments and persons with vision impairments can
receive information regarding the status of a rescue.  A voice
intercommunication system cannot be the only means of
communication because it is not accessible to people with speech
and hearing impairments.  While a voice intercommunication system
is not required, at a minimum, the system should provide both an
audio and visual indication that a rescue is on the way.

A4.11 Platform Lifts (Wheelchair Lifts).

A4.11.2 Other Requirements.  Inclined stairway chairlifts, and
inclined and vertical platform lifts (wheelchair lifts) are
available for short-distance, vertical transportation of people
with disabilities.  Care should be taken in selecting lifts as
some lifts are not equally suitable for use by both wheelchair
users and semi-ambulatory individuals.

A4.12 Windows.

A4.12.1 General.  Windows intended to be operated by occupants in
accessible spaces should comply with 4.12.

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

A4.13 Doors.

A4.13.8 Thresholds at Doorways.  Thresholds and surface height
changes in doorways are particularly inconvenient for wheelchair
users who also have low stamina or restrictions in arm movement
because complex maneuvering is required to get over the level
change while operating the door.

A4.13.9 Door Hardware.  Some disabled persons must push against a
door with their chair or walker to open it.  Applied kickplates
on doors with closers can reduce required maintenance by
withstanding abuse from wheelchairs and canes.  To be effective,
they should cover the door width, less approximately 2 in (51
mm), up to a height of 16 in (405 mm) from its bottom edge and be
centered across the width of the door.

A4.13.10 Door Closers.  Closers with delayed action features give
a person more time to maneuver through doorways.  They are
particularly useful on frequently used interior doors such as
entrances to toilet rooms.

A4.13.11 Door Opening Force.  Although most people with
disabilities can exert at least 5 lbf (22.2N), both pushing and
pulling from a stationary position, a few people with severe
disabilities cannot exert 3 lbf (13.13N).  Although some people
cannot manage the allowable forces in this guideline and many
others have difficulty, door closers must have certain minimum
closing forces to close doors satisfactorily.  Forces for pushing
or pulling doors open are measured with a push-pull scale under
the following conditions:

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

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

    (3)    Application of force:  Apply force gradually so that
the applied force does not exceed the resistance of the door.  In
high-rise buildings, air-pressure differentials may require a
modification of this specification in order to meet the
functional intent.

A4.13.12 Automatic Doors and Power-Assisted Doors.  Sliding
automatic doors do not need guard rails and are more convenient
for wheelchair users and visually impaired people to use.  If
slowly opening automatic doors can be reactivated before their
closing cycle is completed, they will be more convenient in busy
doorways.

A4.15 Drinking Fountains and Water Coolers.

A4.15.2 Spout Height.  Two drinking fountains, mounted side by
side or on a single post, are usable by people with disabilities
and people who find it difficult to bend over.

A4.16 Water Closets.

A4.16.3 Height.  Height preferences for toilet seats vary
considerably among disabled people.  Higher seat heights may be
an advantage to some ambulatory disabled people, but are often a
disadvantage for wheelchair users and others.  Toilet seats 18 in
(455 mm) high seem to be a reasonable compromise.  Thick seats
and filler rings are available to adapt standard fixtures to
these requirements.

A4.16.4 Grab Bars.  Fig. A6(a) and (b) show the diagonal and side
approaches most commonly used to transfer from a wheelchair to a
water closet.  Some wheelchair users can transfer from the front
of the toilet while others use a 90-degree approach.  Most people
who use the two additional approaches can also use either the
diagonal approach or the side approach.

A4.16.5 Flush Controls.  Flush valves and related plumbing can be
located behind walls or to the side of the toilet, or a toilet
seat lid can be provided if plumbing fittings are directly behind
the toilet seat.  Such designs reduce the chance of injury and
imbalance caused by leaning back against the fittings.  Flush
controls for tank-type toilets have a standardized mounting
location on the left side of the tank (facing the tank).  Tanks
can be obtained by special order with controls mounted on the
right side.  If administrative authorities require flush controls
for flush valves to be located in a position that conflicts with
the location of the rear grab bar, then that bar may be split or
shifted toward the wide side of the toilet area.

A4.17 Toilet Stalls.

A4.17.3 Size and Arrangement.  This section requires use of the
60 in (1525 mm) standard stall (Figure 30(a)) and permits the 36
in (915 mm) or 48 in (1220 mm) wide alternate stall (Figure
30(b)) only in alterations where provision of the standard stall
is technically infeasible or where local plumbing codes prohibit
reduction in the number of fixtures.  A standard stall provides a
clear space on one side of the water closet to enable persons who
use wheelchairs to perform a side or diagonal transfer from the
wheelchair to the water closet.  However, some persons with
disabilities who use mobility aids such as walkers, canes or
crutches are better able to use the two parallel grab bars in the
36 in (915 mm) wide alternate stall to achieve a standing
position.

In large toilet rooms, where six or more toilet stalls are
provided, it is therefore required that a 36 in (915 mm) wide
stall with parallel grab bars be provided in addition to the
standard stall required in new construction.  The 36 in (915 mm)
width is necessary to achieve proper use of the grab bars; wider
stalls would position the grab bars too far apart to be easily
used and narrower stalls would position the grab bars too close
to the water closet.  Since the stall is primarily intended for
use by persons using canes, crutches and walkers, rather than
wheelchairs, the length of the stall could be conventional.  The
door, however, must swing outward to ensure a usable space for
people who use crutches or walkers.

A4.17.5 Doors.  To make it easier for wheelchair users to close
toilet stall doors, doors can be provided with closers, spring
hinges, or a pull bar mounted on the inside surface of the door
near the hinge side.

A4.19 Lavatories and Mirrors.

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

A4.21 Shower Stalls.

A4.21.1 General.  Shower stalls that are 36 in by 36 in (915 mm
by 915 mm) wide provide additional safety to people who have
difficulty maintaining balance because all grab bars and walls
are within easy reach.  Seated people use the walls of 36 in by
36 in (915 mm by 915 mm) showers for back support.  Shower stalls
that are 60 in (1525 mm) wide and have no curb may increase
usability of a bathroom by wheelchair users because the shower
area provides additional maneuvering space.

A4.22 Toilet Rooms.

A4.22.3    Clear Floor Space.  In many small facilities, single- user
restrooms may be the only facilities provided for all building
users.  In addition, the guidelines allow the use of "unisex" or
"family" accessible toilet rooms in alterations when technical
infeasibility can be demonstrated.  Experience has shown that the
provision of accessible "unisex" or single-user restrooms is a
reasonable way to provide access for wheelchair users and any
attendants, especially when attendants are of the opposite sex.
Since these facilities have proven so useful, it is often
considered advantageous to install a "unisex" toilet room in new
facilities in addition to making the multi-stall restrooms
accessible, especially in shopping malls, large auditoriums, and
convention centers.

Figure 28 (section 4.16) provides minimum clear floor space
dimensions for toilets in accessible "unisex" toilet rooms.  The
dotted lines designate the minimum clear floor space, depending
on the direction of approach, required for wheelchair users to
transfer onto the water closet.  The dimensions of 48 in (1220
mm) and 60 in (1525 mm), respectively, correspond to the space
required for the two common transfer approaches utilized by
wheelchair users (see Fig. A6).  It is important to keep in mind
that the placement of the lavatory to the immediate side of the
water closet will preclude the side approach transfer illustrated
in Figure A6(b).  To accommodate the side transfer, the space
adjacent to the water closet must remain clear of obstruction for
42 in (1065 mm) from the centerline of the toilet (Figure 28) and
the lavatory must not be located within this clear space.  A
turning circle or T-turn, the clear floor space at the lavatory,
and maneuvering space at the door must be considered when
determining the possible wall locations.  A privacy latch or
other accessible means of ensuring privacy during use should be
provided at the door.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1.    In new construction, accessible single-user restrooms may be
desirable in some situations because they can accommodate a wide
variety of building users.  However, they cannot be used in lieu
of making the multi-stall toilet rooms accessible as required.

2.    Where strict compliance to the guidelines for accessible toilet
facilities is technically infeasible in the alteration of
existing facilities, accessible "unisex" toilets are a reasonable
alternative.

3.    In designing accessible single-user restrooms, the provisions
of adequate space to allow a side transfer will provide
accommodation to the largest number of wheelchair users.

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

A4.23.3 Clear Floor Space.  Figure A7 shows two possible
configurations of a toilet room with a roll-in shower.  The
specific shower shown is designed to fit exactly within the
dimensions of a standard bathtub.  Since the shower does not have
a lip, the floor space can be used for required maneuvering
space.  This would permit a toilet room to be smaller than would
be permitted with a bathtub and still provide enough floor space
to be considered accessible.  This design can provide
accessibility in facilities where space is at a premium (i.e.,
hotels and medical care facilities).  The alternate roll-in
shower (Fig. 57b) also provides sufficient room for the "T-turn"
and does not require plumbing to be on more than one wall.

A4.23.9 Medicine Cabinets.  Other alternatives for storing
medical and personal care items are very useful to disabled
people.  Shelves, drawers, and floor-mounted cabinets can be
provided within the reach ranges of disabled people.

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

A4.26.1 General.  Many disabled people rely heavily upon grab
bars and handrails to maintain balance and prevent serious falls.
Many people brace their forearms between supports and walls to
give them more leverage and stability in maintaining balance or
for lifting.  The grab bar clearance of 1-1/2 in (38 mm) required
in this guideline is a safety clearance to prevent injuries
resulting from arms slipping through the openings.  It also
provides adequate gripping room.

A4.26.2 Size and Spacing of Grab Bars and Handrails.  This
specification allows for alternate shapes of handrails as long as
they allow an opposing grip similar to that provided by a
circular section of 1-1/4 in to 1-1/2 in (32 mm to 38 mm).

A4.27 Controls and Operating Mechanisms.

A4.27.3 Height.  Fig. A8 further illustrates mandatory and
advisory control mounting height provisions for typical
equipment.

Electrical receptacles installed to serve individual appliances
and not intended for regular or frequent use by building
occupants are not required to be mounted within the specified
reach ranges.  Examples would be receptacles installed
specifically for wall-mounted clocks, refrigerators, and
microwave ovens.

A4.28 Alarms.

A4.28.2 Audible Alarms.  Audible emergency signals must have an
intensity and frequency that can attract the attention of
individuals who have partial hearing loss.  People over 60 years
of age generally have difficulty perceiving frequencies higher
than 10,000 Hz.  An alarm signal which has a periodic element to
its signal, such as single stroke bells (clang-pause-clang-
pause), hi-low (up-down-up-down) and fast whoop (on-off-on-off)
are best.  Avoid continuous or reverberating tones.  Select a
signal which has a sound characterized by three or four clear
tones without a great deal of "noise" in between.

A4.28.3 Visual Alarms.  The specifications in this section do not
preclude the use of zoned or coded alarm systems.

A4.28.4 Auxiliary Alarms.  Locating visual emergency alarms in
rooms where persons who are deaf may work or reside alone can
ensure that they will always be warned when an emergency alarm is
activated.  To be effective, such devices must be located and
oriented so that they will spread signals and reflections
throughout a space or raise the overall light level sharply.
However, visual alarms alone are not necessarily the best means
to alert sleepers.  A study conducted by Underwriters Laboratory
(UL) concluded that a flashing light more than seven times
brighter was required (110 candela v. 15 candela, at the same
distance) to awaken sleepers as was needed to alert awake
subjects in a normal daytime illuminated room.

For hotel and other rooms where people are likely to be asleep, a
signal-activated vibrator placed between mattress and box spring
or under a pillow was found by UL to be much more effective in
alerting sleepers.  Many readily available devices are sound-
activated so that they could respond to an alarm clock, clock
radio, wake-up telephone call or room smoke detector.  Activation
by a building alarm system can either be accomplished by a
separate circuit activating an auditory alarm which would, in
turn, trigger the vibrator or by a signal transmitted through the
ordinary 110-volt outlet.  Transmission of signals through the
power line is relatively simple and is the basis of common,
inexpensive remote light control systems sold in many department
and electronic stores for home use.  So-called "wireless"
intercoms operate on the same principal.

A4.29 Detectable Warnings.

A4.29.2 Detectable Warnings on Walking Surfaces.  The material
used to provide contrast should contrast by at least 70%.
Contrast in percent is determined by:

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

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

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

A4.30 Signage.

A4.30.1 General.  In building complexes where finding locations
independently on a routine basis may be a necessity (for example,
college campuses), tactile maps or prerecorded instructions can
be very helpful to visually impaired people.  Several maps and
auditory instructions have been developed and tested for specific
applications.  The type of map or instructions used must be based
on the information to be communicated, which depends highly on
the type of buildings or users.

Landmarks that can easily be distinguished by visually impaired
individuals are useful as orientation cues.  Such cues include
changes in illumination level, bright colors, unique patterns,
wall murals, location of special equipment or other architectural
features.

Many people with disabilities have limitations in movement of
their heads and reduced peripheral vision.  Thus, signage
positioned perpendicular to the path of travel is easiest for
them to notice.  People can generally distinguish signage within
an angle of 30 degrees to either side of the centerlines of their
faces without moving their heads.

A4.30.2 Character Proportion.  The legibility of printed
characters is a function of the viewing distance, character
height, the ratio of the stroke width to the height of the
character, the contrast of color between character and
background, and print font.  The size of characters must be based
upon the intended viewing distance.  A severely nearsighted
person may have to be much closer to recognize a character of a
given size than a person with normal visual acuity.

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

    Dot diameter    .059 in.

    Inter-dot spacing    .090 in.

Horizontal separation between cells .241 in.

    Vertical separation between cells    .395 in.

Raised borders around signs containing raised characters may make
them confusing to read unless the border is set far away from the
characters.  Accessible signage with descriptive materials about
public buildings, monuments, and objects of cultural interest may
not provide sufficiently detailed and meaningful information.
Interpretive guides, audio tape devices, or other methods may be
more effective in presenting such information.

A4.30.5 Finish and Contrast.  An eggshell finish (11 to 19 degree
gloss on 60 degree glossimeter) is recommended.  Research
indicates that signs are more legible for persons with low vision
when characters contrast with their background by at least 70
percent.  Contrast in percent shall be determined by:

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

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

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

The greatest readability is usually achieved through the use of
light-colored characters or symbols on a dark background.

A4.30.7 Symbols of Accessibility for Different Types of Listening
Systems.  Paragraph 4 of this section requires signage indicating
the availability of an assistive listening system.  An
appropriate message should be displayed with the international
symbol of access for hearing loss since this symbol conveys
general accessibility for people with hearing loss.  Some
suggestions are:

INFRARED
ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM
AVAILABLE
----PLEASE ASK----

AUDIO LOOP IN USE
TURN T-SWITCH FOR
BETTER HEARING
----OR ASK FOR HELP----

FM
ASSISTIVE LISTENING
SYSTEM AVAILABLE
----PLEASE ASK----

The symbol may be used to notify persons of the availability of
other auxiliary aids and services such as: real time captioning,
captioned note taking, sign language interpreters, and oral
interpreters.

A4.30.8 Illumination Levels.  Illumination levels on the sign
surface shall be in the 100 to 300 lux range (10 to 30
footcandles) and shall be uniform over the sign surface.  Signs
shall be located such that the illumination level on the surface
of the sign is not significantly exceeded by the ambient light or
visible bright lighting source behind or in front of the sign.

A4.31 Telephones.

A4.31.3 Mounting Height.  In localities where the dial-tone first
system is in operation, 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 telephone 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 telephones at a height of
48 in (1220 mm) or less to all operable parts.

A4.31.9 Text Telephones.  A public text telephone may be an
integrated text telephone pay phone unit or a conventional
portable text telephone that is permanently affixed within, or
adjacent to, the telephone enclosure.  In order to be usable with
a pay phone, a text telephone which is not a single integrated
text telephone pay phone unit will require a shelf large enough
(10 in (255mm) wide by 10 in (255 mm) deep with a 6 in (150 mm)
vertical clearance minimum) to accommodate the device, an
electrical outlet, and a power cord.  Movable or portable text
telephones may be used to provide equivalent facilitation.  A
text telephone should be readily available so that a person using
it may access the text telephone easily and conveniently.  As
currently designed pocket- type text telephones for personal use
do not accommodate a wide range of users.  Such devices would not
be considered substantially equivalent to conventional text
telephones.  However, in the future as technology develops this
could change.

A4.32 Fixed or Built-in Seating and Tables.

A4.32.4 Height of Tables or Counters.  Different types of work
require different table or counter heights for comfort and
optimal performance.  Light detailed work such as writing
requires a table or counter close to elbow height for a standing
person.  Heavy manual work such as rolling dough requires a
counter or table height about 10 in (255 mm) below elbow height
for a standing person.  This principle of high/low table or
counter heights also applies for seated persons; however, the
limiting condition for seated manual work is clearance under the
table or counter.

Table A1 shows convenient counter heights for seated persons.
The great variety of heights for comfort and optimal performance
indicates a need for alternatives or a compromise in height if
people who stand and people who sit will be using the same
counter area.

TABLE A1
CONVENIENT HEIGHTS OF TABLES AND COUNTERS FOR SEATED PEOPLE1
SHORT WOMEN
TALL MEN
CONDITIONS OF USE
in
mm
in
mm
Seated in a wheelchair:
    Manual work:
    Desk or removable
armrests
26
660
30
760
    Fixed, full-size
armrests2
323
815
323
815
    Light, detailed work:
    Desk or removable
armrests
29
735
34
865
    Fixed, full-size
armrests2
323
815
34
865
    Seated in a 16 in (405
mm) high chair:
    Manual work
26
660
27
685
    Light, detailed work
28
710
31
7851All dimensions are based on a work-surface thickness of 1 1/2
in (38 mm) and a clearance of 1 1/2 in (38 mm) between legs and
the underside of a work surface.

2This type of wheelchair arm does not interfere with the
positioning of a wheelchair under a work surface.

3This dimension is limited by the height of the armrests:  a
lower height would be preferable.  Some people in this group
prefer lower work surfaces, which require positioning the
wheelchair back from the edge of the counter.

A4.33 Assembly Areas.

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

A4.33.3 Placement of Wheelchair Locations.  The location of
wheelchair areas can be planned so that a variety of positions
within the seating area are provided.  This will allow choice in
viewing and price categories.

Building/life safety codes set minimum distances between rows of
fixed seats with consideration of the number of seats in a row,
the exit aisle width and arrangement, and the location of exit
doors.  "Continental" seating, with a greater number of seats per
row and a commensurate increase in row spacing and exit doors,
facilitates emergency egress for all people and increases ease of
access to mid-row seats especially for people who walk with
difficulty.  Consideration of this positive attribute of
"continental" seating should be included along with all other
factors in the design of fixed seating areas.

A4.33.6 Placement of Listening Systems.  A distance of 50 ft (15
m) allows a person to distinguish performers' facial expressions.

A4.33.7 Types of Listening Systems.  An assistive listening
system appropriate for an assembly area for a group of persons or
where the specific individuals are not known in advance, such as
a playhouse, lecture hall or movie theater, may be different from
the system appropriate for a particular individual provided as an
auxiliary aid or as part of a reasonable accommodation.  The
appropriate device for an individual is the type that individual
can use, whereas the appropriate system for an assembly area will
necessarily be geared toward the "average" or aggregate needs of
various individuals.  A listening system that can be used from
any seat in a seating area is the most flexible way to meet this
specification.  Earphone jacks with variable volume controls can
benefit only people who have slight hearing loss and do not help
people who use hearing aids.  At the present time, magnetic
induction loops are the most feasible type of listening system
for people who use hearing aids equipped with "T-coils," but
people without hearing aids or those with hearing aids not
equipped with inductive pick-ups cannot use them without special
receivers.  Radio frequency systems can be extremely effective
and inexpensive.  People without hearing aids can use them, but
people with hearing aids need a special receiver to use them as
they are presently designed.  If hearing aids had a jack to allow
a by-pass of microphones, then radio frequency systems would be
suitable for people with and without hearing aids.  Some
listening systems may be subject to interference from other
equipment and feedback from hearing aids of people who are using
the systems.  Such interference can be controlled by careful
engineering design that anticipates feedback sources in the
surrounding area.

Table A2, reprinted from a National Institute of Disability and
Rehabilitation Research "Rehab Brief," shows some of the
advantages and disadvantages of different types of assistive
listening systems.  In addition, the Architectural and
Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) has
published a pamphlet on Assistive Listening Systems which lists
demonstration centers across the country where technical
assistance can be obtained in selecting and installing
appropriate systems.  The state of New York has also adopted a
detailed technical specification which may be useful.

Table A2.  Summary of Assistive Listening Devices

    System
    Advantages
    Disadvantages
    Typical
Applications
Induction Loop
    Transmitter:
    Transducer
    wired to
    induction
    loop around
    listening
    area.
    Receiver:
    Self-
    contained
    induction
    receiver or
    personal
    hearing aid
    with
    telecoil.
Cost-Effective
Low
Maintenance
Easy to use
Unobtrusive
    May be
    possible to
    integrate
    into
    existing
    public
    address
    system.
    Some hearing
    aids can
    function as
    receivers.
    Signal spills
    over to
    adjacent
    rooms.
Susceptible to
electrical
interference.
Limited
portability
Inconsistent signal
    strength
Head position affects
    signal
    strength.
    Lack of
    standards
    for
    induction
    coil
    performance.
    Meeting areas
    Theaters
    Churches and
Temples
    Conference
rooms
    Classrooms
    TV viewing
FM
    Transmitter:
    Flashlight-
    sized worn
    by speaker.
    Receiver:
    With
    personal
    hearing aid
    via DAI or
    induction
    neck-loop
    and
    telecoil; or
    self-
    contained
    with
    earphone(s).
Highly
    portable
    Different
    channels
    allow use by
    different
    groups
    within the
    same room.
High user
mobility
    Variable for
    large range
    of hearing
    losses.
High cost of
    receivers
Equipment
fragile
Equipment
obtrusive
High
maintenance
Expensive to
maintain
Custom fitting to
individual user may be required.
    Classrooms
    Tour groups
    Meeting areas
    Outdoor
events
    One-on-one
Infrared
    Transmitter:
    Emitter in
    line-of-
    sight with
    receiver.
    Receiver:
    Self-
    contained.
    Or with
    personal
    hearing aid
    via DAI or
    induction
    neckloop and
    telecoil.
Easy to use
    Insures
    privacy or
    confidential
    ity
Moderate cost
    Can often be
    integrated
    into
    existing
    public
    address
    system.
    Line-of-sight
    required
    between
    emitter and
    receiver.
Ineffective
outdoors
Limited
portability
Requires
installation
Theaters
Churches and
Temples
Auditoriums
Meetings requiring confidential ity
TV viewing
Source:  Rehab Brief, National Institute on Disability and
Rehabilitation Research, Washington, DC, Vol. XII, No. 10,
(1990).

A5.0 Restaurants and Cafeterias.

A5.1 General.  Dining counters (where there is no service) are
typically found in small carry-out restaurants, bakeries, or
coffee shops and may only be a narrow eating surface attached to
a wall.  This section requires that where such a dining counter
is provided, a portion of the counter shall be at the required
accessible height.

A7.0 Business and Mercantile.

A7.2(3) Assistive Listening Devices.  At all sales and service
counters, teller windows, box offices, and information kiosks
where a physical barrier separates service personnel and
customers, it is recommended that at least one permanently
installed assistive listening device complying with 4.33 be
provided at each location or series.  Where assistive listening
devices are installed, signage should be provided identifying
those stations which are so equipped.

A7.3 Check-out Aisles.  Section 7.2 refers to counters without
aisles; section 7.3 concerns check-out aisles.  A counter without
an aisle (7.2) can be approached from more than one direction
such as in a convenience store.  In order to use a check-out
aisle (7.3), customers must enter a defined area (an aisle) at a
particular point, pay for goods, and exit at a particular point.