Your Guide to Commercial Ramps
Does your place of business have stairs or a platform that can prevent people in wheelchairs or with disabilities from entering? Commercial ramps give all customers and clients access to your building and office. Without one, you may face unwanted lawsuits or potential accidents for people in wheelchairs, with prosthetics, or other walking assistance.
Read on to learn more about commercial ramps and how to choose the product that’s best for you and your building.
Commercial Ramps and Compliance
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 “prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public.” Part of compliance includes the freedom and ability to enter and exit a business. This law is not just for the elderly, but for everyone.
ADA compliant commercial ramps include everything that meets the requirements. Commercial ramps must be at least 48 inches wide between the handrails. Further, the maximum slope is 1:12, or one inch in elevation for every one foot of ramp. If there is 24 inches in elevation from the ground to the door, there should be 24 feet of ramp to accommodate the 24 inches of elevation.
Handicap Ramps
Ramps help people in wheelchairs, with crutches and canes, and other physical disabilities enter and exit your building safely. Often, people that have ramps at home benefit from businesses that have a commercial wheelchair ramp. The ease of mobility can be a deciding factor in entering your business but may also prevent injuries and potential lawsuits.
A commercial handicap ramp gives your clients peace of mind, too. Commercial ramps aren’t just for medical buildings or professional offices. Restaurants, hardware stores, and even charities can benefit from installing a ramp. Remember, people without walking impediments can also benefit from a ramp, too. Commercial wheelchair ramp specifications follow the federal guidelines first, state guidelines second, and local requirements last.
What to Look For in Commercial Ramps
There are some ramp features that are nice to have, and other features you have to have. Consider this list as you consider which ramp to buy for your business.
- Non-Slip Tread – Metal landings can become slippery so choose one that is cross-hatched (knurled) and non-skid in all directions.
- Aesthetically pleasing – The front of your business should remain attractive and appealing so choose heavy-duty welded aluminum that provides continuous decking without gaps and raised metal connections that someone may trip over.
- Safety is the most fun – The handrail system will have legs that support and connect to the bottom of the ramp so tripping is less likely from the support systems.
- Code compliant – Choose one that meets the ADA, Federal, State, and local codes when applicable.
Commercial ramps aim to give everyone the opportunity to enter your building. Creating a safe space for all customers benefits everyone.
Handicap ramps for commercial buildings have more requirements and restrictions than those available for the home, but they are also used more by a variety of people.
For more information on commercial ramps and residential ramps, contact Williams Lifts today.