Saturday, September 28, 2013

The Basics Regarding Disabled Ramps

By Paulette Short


Disabled ramps is a term that is commonly employed when referencing wheelchair or modular ramps that have been designed for use by people with disabilities. These are especially helpful to those who are restricted to wheelchairs, as well as those who have to push strollers, carts and other similar wheeled objects. These ramps are installed at many different public facilities.

These structures are designed to feature an incline. They may be connected to facilities and serve as an alternative to stairways. The purpose of this kind of unit is to offer convenience, as it allows for more easy access to building entries. Modular units can be semi-permanent, portable or permanent.

The permanent versions are bolted or cemented into their place. Semi-permanent models, in contrast, are placed on the ground or within a cement pad. These are usually used only for short term. Both of these kinds are made from aluminum, concrete or wood. Models constructed from aluminum materials are known to be more durable than the wooden versions and can be moved and reconfigured, if necessary.

Portable ramps are also made from aluminum products. They are easy to fold, allowing for simple transport. These kinds are meant for home and building use, but can also be applied to vans to help load occupied or unoccupied mobility devices. These are designed with special care.

In various parts of the world, there are different slope dimensions that are allowed. Regulations are expected to change dependent on the location or jurisdiction. The models that are not as steep may be easier when it comes to wheelchair access and more practical in places that get cold and icy. In the industry of construction, this is usually considered mandatory in order to accommodate the public. In the United States of America, these guidelines are regulated by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Slope and length are important when it comes to these structures. The aspects are known to vary. In the US, slope for business and public models used for wheelchairs and slopes are expected to have a 1:12 ratio. The rule does not always apple to those installed at residences. The maximum slope in the United Kingdom is also 1:12, but sometimes exclusions are made for older buildings. In Hong Kong, and some other parts of China, ramps are not permitted to have a ratio of more than 1:12.

Many public facilities have to adhere to standards for length as well. In many situations, the standard remains 1 to 12 ratio. For example, for a 20-inch rise there must be a 20-foot ramp. Units can be as long as needed but a single ramp should not be more than 30 feet long. When it comes to residential use, 2 to 21 is recommended. Therefore, a 20-inch rise must be at least 10 feet in length. In general, longer ramps include a gradual slope.

Disabled ramps are required at many public places around the world. These units make building access easier for people handling wheeled devices or those with physical disabilities. Modular ramps may be found at private or public places.




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