Accessibility for Multiple Classrooms in Music School

[cjshumate]

Hello and thanks for reading. I am working on a TI for a music school. The building has large open areas that we plan to subdivide into roughly 8x12 classrooms using partition wall framing, and some areas that already had partitions walls that we'll use for classrooms. Assuming all classrooms have the same amenities, do all of them need to be accessible? My guess is yes, they do. The code has some exceptions for things like clustered bathrooms, dressing rooms, and locker rooms, but nothing for this particular use case. When I use the term "classroom" I don't mean for group lessons; most of the time it's one instructor and one student, maybe two. The reason I ask is that there is a manufacturer that makes soundproof recording booths that ready to assemble and include all the walls, a ceiling, and door all at a price that's more affordable than conventionally framing the space. The issue is with the door they use, which has a roughly 2" high threshold because the door has a gasket on all sides and provides an air-tight seal. So any classrooms (maybe lesson rooms is a better term) using the premanufactured rooms would not be accessible. Thanks for your feedback!

 

[bill1952]

I would say if the studios are not assigned to a specific teacher, that only a percentage need to be accessible. Like dressing rooms. Does the manufacturer (Wenger?) not have a solution?

 

[cjshumate]

Studios are not assigned to a teacher, it makes sense to me that only a percentage should be accessible... especially because they're located in a basement that has no elevator access. I know we need to build things to future-proof in case the building ever does get an elevator. But you're saying that's your opinion with no code section to back it up? I mean, I like your opinion and agree with it, but I'll need something more when talking to the county.

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

What code? Your profile says Portland, OR. Is this project in Portland? Does Portland follow the Oregon building code, or does Portland have its own version?

Does the basement renovation represent a change of occupancy?

 

[Jean Tessmer-HI]

Hello and thanks for reading. I am working on a TI for a music school. The building has large open areas that we plan to subdivide into roughly 8x12 classrooms using partition wall framing, and some areas that already had partitions walls that we'll use for classrooms. Assuming all classrooms have the same amenities, do all of them need to be accessible? My guess is yes, they do. The code has some exceptions for things like clustered bathrooms, dressing rooms, and locker rooms, but nothing for this particular use case. When I use the term "classroom" I don't mean for group lessons; most of the time it's one instructor and one student, maybe two. The reason I ask is that there is a manufacturer that makes soundproof recording booths that ready to assemble and include all the walls, a ceiling, and door all at a price that's more affordable than conventionally framing the space. The issue is with the door they use, which has a roughly 2" high threshold because the door has a gasket on all sides and provides an air-tight seal. So any classrooms (maybe lesson rooms is a better term) using the premanufactured rooms would not be accessible. Thanks for your feedback!

Pemko manufactures a automatic door bottom that activates when the door swings closed. I think using this will preserve sound proofing and eliminate the 2" high threshold that does not comply with the ADA. See attached. Cost ~$85

Pemko STC411 Full Mortise Acoustic Automatic Door Bottom - all the doors would need to be with no or low threshold the STC411 is acoustic rated and eliminates the threshold. How does the manufacturer of these units address ADA compliance?​

 

[steveray]

They used those at our middle school music rooms...should be a way to use them in the booths as well...

Pemko manufactures a automatic door bottom that activates when the door swings closed. I think using this will preserve sound proofing and eliminate the 2" high threshold that does not comply with the ADA. See attached. Cost ~$85

Pemko STC411 Full Mortise Acoustic Automatic Door Bottom - all the doors would need to be with no or low threshold the STC411 is acoustic rated and eliminates the threshold. How does the manufacturer of these units address ADA compliance?​

 

[Sifu]

I would say if the studios are not assigned to a specific teacher, that only a percentage need to be accessible. Like dressing rooms. Does the manufacturer (Wenger?) not have a solution?

Curious where the line gets drawn? OP starts by calling them classrooms, then transitions to a possibly a booth, says one-on-one...or two...most of the time.

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

Curious where the line gets drawn? OP starts by calling them classrooms, then transitions to a possibly a booth, says one-on-one...or two...most of the time.

Music classrooms often have a bank of small studios either adjacent or opening directly in the classroom. The small studios are for individual practice, or one-on-one instruction as part of the overall music program.

 

[jar546]

All classrooms (or lesson rooms) in the music school need to be accessible, even if they are primarily used for one-on-one or small group lessons. According to ADA standards, each classroom must be accessible to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to the same educational opportunities.

 

[Sifu]

All classrooms (or lesson rooms) in the music school need to be accessible, even if they are primarily used for one-on-one or small group lessons. According to ADA standards, each classroom must be accessible to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to the same educational opportunities.

This caught my eye since I had a submittal a few weeks ago for 2 modular classroom trailers, 4 individual classrooms. No access. My comment was answered by providing access to two of them (though even that fell short of the minimums). Wash/rinse/repeat. Not sure if they thought 50% was good enough, or just didn't think at all.