Information To Know About Disabled Ramps

By Paulette Short


Disabled ramps refers to special devices that are mostly designed for, and used by, people with disabilities. These might also be known as wheelchair or modular ramps. They are especially helpful for people who are bound to their wheelchairs or those who must handle other wheeled items, such as strollers or carts. Ramps are include in many different public areas around the world.

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 different areas of the globe, various dimensions for slope and structures are permitted. The regulations may vary based on jurisdiction or location. Models that are not steep may be more practical for cold places that get icy or for those accessing the ramp by wheelchair. In construction, these are often considered mandatory parts to include for the general public. In America, the Americans with Disabilities Act regulates these units.

Length and slope are both important when it comes to these devices. These aspects are also the most likely to range. In America, the slope for public and business units for scooters and wheelchairs should have a ratio of 1:12. This rule does not necessarily apply to residential places. This is the same maximum for places in the United Kingdom, although exclusions may be put in place for buildings that are older. In some areas of China, such as Hong Kong, ramps should not have a slope with a ratio higher than 1:12.

There are numerous public-access facilities that have standards in places for length as well. Most of the time the ratio still holds at 1:12. Therefore, a 20-inch rise may be matched with a 20-foot ramp. Units are usually allowed to be as long as needed so long as they do not exceed 30 feet in length. When it comes to units at residential places, the recommended ratio is usually at 2:21. So a 20-inch rise should be matched with a length of 10 feet or longer. In general, longer structures have more gradual slopes.

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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