ADA landing spacing refers to the specific dimensions required for landings on accessible ramps, ensuring safe and easy navigation for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. The exact spacing varies depending on the landing's location and purpose, such as at the top or bottom of a ramp, where the ramp changes direction, or when a doorway is present.
The fundamental requirement for an ADA-compliant landing is to provide a sufficient clear, level space. This space prevents users from rolling backward on a ramp while maneuvering or resting.
Key ADA Landing Dimensions
The dimensions for ramp landings are critical for ensuring accessibility. These requirements address length, width, and specific scenarios like changes in direction or adjacent doorways.
General Landing Length and Width
- Minimum Length: Every landing must have a clear length of at least 60 inches without obstruction. This applies to both the top and bottom landings of a ramp run.
- Minimum Width: The clear width of a landing must be at least as wide as the widest ramp run leading to it. For most standard accessible ramps, this means a minimum clear width of 36 inches, though wider ramps require commensurately wider landings.
Landings for Changes in Direction
If a ramp changes direction, such as in an L-shaped or U-shaped configuration, a larger landing is required to allow for a full turn.
- Dimensions: Landings where a ramp changes direction must have a clear space that is at least 60 inches by 60 inches. This square dimension provides ample room for a wheelchair to turn without encroaching on the ramp's slope.
Landings Adjacent to Doorways
When a doorway leads onto or is located adjacent to a ramp landing, additional considerations apply to ensure proper maneuvering clearances for opening and closing the door.
- Integration with Door Clearances: The landing space must be large enough to incorporate the required maneuvering clearances for the door itself, as outlined in the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. This often means the landing will be larger than the standard 60-inch minimum length, especially on the side where the door latch is located or depending on whether the door swings into or out of the landing space.
- Example: For a door that pulls open towards a user approaching straight on, the landing might need to extend further to provide sufficient space for the user to pull the door open while remaining clear of the door swing.
Summary of ADA Landing Spacing Requirements
| Scenario | Minimum Length (Clear) | Minimum Width (Clear) | Special Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight Ramp Runs | 60 inches | At least as wide as the ramp run | Applies to top and bottom landings |
| Change in Direction | 60 inches | 60 inches | Requires a square landing for turning |
| Adjacent to Doorway | Varies | At least as wide as the ramp run | Must incorporate door maneuvering clearances |
Practical Considerations for ADA Landings
- Slope: All landings must have a maximum slope of 1:48 (2%) in any direction to prevent unwanted rolling and ensure stability. This means they should be nearly level.
- Surface: Landing surfaces must be firm, stable, and slip-resistant.
- Obstructions: Landings must be free from obstructions, including projecting elements or changes in level, that could impede passage.
- Edge Protection: Landings that are not bounded by walls should have edge protection (e.g., curbs, guardrails) to prevent wheelchairs from rolling off.
- Drainage: Proper drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation, which can create slip hazards and impact maneuverability.
Adhering to these ADA landing spacing guidelines is crucial for creating truly accessible environments, allowing everyone to navigate safely and independently. For comprehensive details on door maneuvering clearances, refer to ADA Standards for Accessible Design, Section 404.
