Accessible

[conarb]

I thought the term "accessible" now applied to handicapped compliance, but I see that I'm wrong. An inspector tagged a switch for not being "accessible", I presumed he meant not handicapped accessible, but I was wrong, both the IRC and the NEC use the term "accessible" to mean just what the dictionary definition means:

The IRC defines "accessible" in E3401:ACCESSIBLE. (As applied to equipment.) Admitting close

approach; not guarded by locked doors, elevation or other

effective means.

ACCESSIBLE. (As applied to wiring methods.) Capable of

being removed or exposed without damaging the building

structure or finish, or not permanently closed in by the structure

or finish of the building.

Why as the term "accessible" replaced "handicapped" ?

 

[mark handler]

Recognizing the negative impact of certain terms, the word "handicapped" was replaced with the phrase "persons with disabilities."

http://www.fs.fed.us/eng/toolbox/acc/acc02.htm

Thats why "handicapped" is no longer used by state and federal governments.

The term "accessible" DID NOT replaced "handicapped"

THE TERM ACCESSIBLE IS ACCESSIBLE, BY ALL.

“A DISABILITY is a reduction of function or the absence of a particular body part or organ.”

“A HANDICAP is a disadvantage resulting from a disability that limits or prevents fulfillment.”

And you have defined "accessible"

 

[conarb]

In the above incident, when an inspector tagged a switch as not being accessible how do we know what he means? I assumed he meant not accessible to people in wheelchairs, but he meant the NEC definition of accessible.

 

[mark handler]

Dick

Every word has multiple meanings, it's all based on context, method of delivery and experience.

If you know that the ADA (accessibility codes) have nothing to do with a SFD, access does not mean accessible to people in wheelchairs, context and education....

 

[peach]

"handicapped" is not PC..

 

[fatboy]

"In the above incident, when an inspector tagged a switch as not being accessible how do we know what he means? I assumed he meant not accessible to people in wheelchairs, but he meant the NEC definition of accessible."

We know what he means by the context in which he was there. Obviously he was requested to perform an electrical inspection, so the definition of accessible lies within the electrical code, not in the ADA.

And yes, peachy is right, I'm not usually a PC freak, but "handicapped" is way old school.

 

[brudgers]

However, the switch also needs to be accessible under ADAAG.

 

[mark handler]

However, the switch also needs to be accessible under ADAAG.

ADAAG does not apply to a single family dwelling. And a inspector cannot tag a project citing the ADAAG

 

[Mac]

Where is the offending switch located?

 

[Darren Emery]

Mark - some inspectors can tag a project citing the ADAAG. Depends upon the state.