2003 ANSI A117.1 Section 405.9 exception 3

[righter101]

I have someone who wants to install a series of ramps to provide accessibility. They are regrading the property to match the slope of the ramps.

My understanding of 405.8 is if they have 6" or less of rise per ramp, they are not required to install handrails.

Their idea is to have a series of compliant ramps connected with legal landings, all at grade.

When I read 405.9 about the required edge protection, specifically exception 3, it seems to be only referring to the landing portion.

When I read the ANSI commentary, it specifically states "The last exception recognizes that when the ramp and landing are essentially at the same level as the adjacent groudn or floor level that there is no danger of the user dropping off the edge."

They are designing this in a manner that would not required hand rails. Can you apply exception 3 to the ramp as well as the landings?

The issue is if you have a large grassy area, and a walking path (accessible ramps and landings in this case), by installing a 4" curb along the path edge, you create a large tripping hazard.

Thoughts?

Thanks.

 

[mark handler]

ADAAG provides this guidance

If the ramp is raised 2 inches or more above the adjacent surface, you need edge protection

 

[Builder Bob]

Don't forget, that the land adjacent to the ramp has to meet the definition of grade in ADA land ......... In other words, pushing the soil up next to the ramp and providing a 6 inch shoulder before dropping away isn't going to pass the grade! (Bad Pun - sorry)

 

[righter101]

They plan on regrading this courtyard area to match the slope of the ramp/landings, so there would be no dropoff.

I also just got 2 of the Starrett code tapes for my inspectors, those things seem pretty hand.

thanks guys.