2.2 - Width
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Clear Width Requirements
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Today, we're going to discuss the clear width requirements for accessible entrances. Can anyone tell me the minimum width for an accessible entrance door?
Is it 900 mm?
Correct! The minimum clear width for a door entrance is 900 mm to accommodate wheelchairs. This ensures that everyone can enter without barriers. Remember: 'Clear Width – 900, Easy Entry!' Let’s move on to thresholds. What should we consider regarding the height of thresholds?
They shouldn’t be higher than 13 mm, right?
Exactly! Thresholds should be beveled for smooth transitions. This way, we prevent any hazards for users. Can someone summarize the key points we just discussed?
The minimum width is 900 mm, and the thresholds should be beveled and not higher than 13 mm.
Great summary!
Accessible Ramps
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Now let's discuss accessible ramps. What is the minimum clear width for a ramp?
I believe it’s 1200 mm.
That's right! A minimum of 1200 mm is essential for safe passage. If ramps are longer or used by more than one person, we could even go up to 1500 mm. Can anyone share why the slope of a ramp is important?
A gentler slope makes it easier for users to navigate.
Precisely! The maximum recommended running slope is 1:12, while 1:15 to 1:20 makes navigation easier. Remember 'Gentle Grades for Great Access!' Let’s recap the ramp specifications.
Minimum width is 1200 mm and the recommended slope is between 1:15 and 1:20.
Excellent summary!
Accessible Corridors
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Next up are accessible corridors. What’s the minimum clear width required?
1500 mm for two wheelchairs to pass!
That's correct! It's vital for allowing safe movement. In narrower corridors, a minimum of 1200 mm is still acceptable if there are thoughtful placement strategies. Can anyone describe what we should consider at corridor intersections?
A turning radius space of 1500 mm diameter must be provided.
Exactly! A proper turning radius helps users navigate easily. Let’s finalize this session with a review. What are the key points regarding corridor accessibility?
The clear width should be at least 1500 mm, and we need to ensure turning radius and ample space at intersections.
Great job summarizing!
Access Through Doors
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Finally, let’s focus on doors. What’s the minimum clear opening width for accessible doors?
It should be at least 900 mm.
Correct! And what about in double-leaf doors?
At least one leaf should also have a clear opening of 900 mm.
Exactly! What other features should door handles have to ensure accessibility?
They should be lever handles, at a height of 900 mm to 1100 mm.
Spot on! Doors must also be operable without requiring a tight grasp. Remember 'Open Doors for Open Access!' Who wants to summarize this section?
The minimum width is 900 mm, and handles should be lever types positioned 900 to 1100 mm high.
Great summary and excellent participation everyone!
Introduction & Overview
Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.
Quick Overview
Standard
The section outlines the critical dimensions for accessible features within buildings, emphasizing the importance of width in entrances, ramps, corridors, and doorways. It highlights the legal standards and design considerations that ensure usability and safety for individuals with disabilities.
Detailed
Width
In the context of accessibility in the built environment, width plays a crucial role in facilitating navigation for individuals with disabilities, particularly those using wheelchairs or mobility aids. This section provides detailed specifications on the minimum clear widths required for entrances, ramps, corridors, and doors. Adhering to these guidelines not only complies with legal standards such as the ADA and NBC but also promotes an inclusive environment.
1. Accessible Entrances
- Clear Width: Minimum of 900 mm for door entrances is essential to allow wheelchair access.
- Threshold Requirements: Threshold height should not exceed 13 mm and should be beveled for ease of transition.
2. Accessible Ramps
- Minimum Ramp Width: At least 1200 mm is required for safe two-way use, with an option to increase up to 1500 mm for long-distance ramps.
3. Accessible Corridors
- Minimum Corridor Width: Clear width should be a minimum of 1500 mm for two wheelchairs to pass. At least 1200 mm width is acceptable for narrower corridors with designated passing areas.
4. Doors
- Minimum Opening Width: Doors should have a minimum clear opening width of 900 mm. In double-leaf doors, one leaf must meet this requirement for accessibility.
By ensuring these widths, facilities can significantly enhance accessibility and foster independence for all users.
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Minimum Clear Width Requirements
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Chapter Content
- Minimum clear width: 1200 mm.
- If ramps are used by two-way traffic or stretch over long distances, width can be increased up to 1500 mm or more.
Detailed Explanation
The minimum width specified for accessible ramps is crucial to ensure that they can be navigated comfortably by individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. This width must be at least 1200 mm, meaning that the ramp should have enough space for one wheelchair to pass through. In situations where the ramp will experience two-way traffic (two wheelchairs passing each other) or where the ramp extends over long distances, the width can be increased to 1500 mm or more. This increase in space is meant to prevent congestion and ensure safety.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a wide hallway in a busy school. If two large groups of students need to pass each other while moving in opposite directions, a narrow corridor would quickly become cramped and chaotic. Similarly, having sufficient width on ramps allows users with mobility devices to maneuver freely without worrying about colliding with others, making the experience much more comfortable.
Key Concepts
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Minimum Door Width: At least 900 mm for accessible entrances.
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Ramp Width: Minimum of 1200 mm, can be increased for longer ramps.
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Corridor Width: Should be 1500 mm for two-way traffic.
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Threshold Height: Must not exceed 13 mm to facilitate smooth entry.
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Door Handle Requirements: Lever types are preferred for accessibility.
Examples & Applications
A public university building which has installed automatic doors that meet the 900 mm width requirement.
A local shopping mall featuring multi-directional ramps with 1200 mm width for accessibility.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
For doors that must comply with ease, 900 mm is the size that pleases.
Stories
Once upon a time, there was a building that made sure every door was wide enough for the brave explorers in wheelchairs who ventured in, ensuring each threshold was a welcoming start.
Memory Tools
D-R-C: Door-900, Ramp-1200, Corridor-1500: Remember these numbers for accessible design!
Acronyms
A-W-E
Access Width Essential.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Accessibility
Design principles that ensure spaces are usable by individuals with disabilities.
- Clear Width
The unobstructed horizontal passage space necessary for wheelchair access.
- Threshold
The raised strip at the bottom of a doorway that can create a barrier if too high.
- Ramp Slope
The ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run, which impacts ease of navigation.
- Turning Radius
The space required for a wheelchair to make a turn without obstruction.
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