Ramps Enable Accessible Grade Changes - When Designed Correctly
Ramps are the primary solution for grade changes that exceed the accessible route slope limit of 1:20. When a change in level between 0.25 inches and 0.5 inches requires a beveled edge, and any change greater than 0.5 inches requires a ramp or elevator, ramps become critical accessibility elements. The ADA Standards for Accessible Design Section 405 governs ramp design, and the ARE PA exam tests every dimension and component of compliant ramp design.
Ramp Slope and Rise Requirements
| Requirement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Maximum running slope | 1:12 (8.33%) |
| Maximum cross slope | 1:48 (2%) |
| Maximum rise per run | 30 inches |
| Minimum clear width | 36 inches between handrails |
A slope of 1:12 means for every 1 inch of vertical rise, there must be 12 inches of horizontal run. A ramp with a 6-inch rise must be at least 72 inches (6 feet) long. Maximum rise of 30 inches per ramp run means any ramp with more than 30 inches of total rise must be broken into multiple runs with level landings between them.
Landing Requirements
Landings are required at the top, bottom, and any intermediate point where a ramp changes direction. Landing requirements:
- Minimum length: 60 inches in the direction of travel
- Minimum width: At least as wide as the widest ramp run leading to the landing
- Slope: Maximum 1:48 (2%) in any direction (essentially level)
- At turns: When a ramp changes direction at a landing, the landing must be 60 × 60 inches minimum
Handrail Requirements
Handrails are required on both sides of ramps with a rise greater than 6 inches. ADA handrail requirements:
- Height: 34–38 inches above the ramp surface, measured to the top of the gripping surface
- Gripping surface diameter: 1-1/4 to 2 inches (circular cross-section), or equivalent gripping surface for non-circular shapes
- Extensions: Handrails must extend 12 inches horizontally beyond the top of the ramp and extend to the bottom of the ramp sloped section, then extend 12 inches horizontally
- Clearance from wall: 1-1/2 inches minimum between handrail and wall
- Ends: Must be returned to the wall, post, or floor, or terminate in a manner that does not create a hazard
Edge Protection
Ramp edges require protection to prevent wheelchair wheels from rolling off the edge. Acceptable methods: a curb or barrier at least 4 inches high on each side, a wall or railing providing a solid lower portion, or an extended surface that prevents wheel drop-off. Edges at landings are similarly protected. This requirement is often overlooked in design and is a common code violation.
Key Exam Points
- Maximum slope: 1:12 (8.33%). Cross slope: 1:48 max.
- Maximum rise per run: 30 inches.
- Minimum ramp width: 36 inches clear between handrails.
- Landing: 60 inches long, level (max 1:48 slope).
- Handrails: both sides, 34–38 inches height, 12-inch horizontal extensions at top and bottom.
- Edge protection: 4-inch minimum curb on sides.
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