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ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant slopes ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. For ramps, the maximum allowable slope is 8.33% (1:12 ratio), which means for every 1 unit of vertical rise, there must be at least 12 units of horizontal run.
The calculator uses the slope formula:
Where:
ADA Compliance: The calculator also checks if the calculated slope meets the ADA requirement of ≤8.33%.
Details: ADA compliant slopes ensure safe and accessible environments for people with mobility impairments, including those using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. Non-compliant slopes can create barriers and safety hazards.
Tips: Enter the vertical rise and horizontal run in meters. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the slope percentage and verify ADA compliance.
Q1: What is the maximum ADA compliant slope?
A: The maximum slope for ramps is 8.33% (1:12 ratio). For other applications like walkways, different requirements may apply.
Q2: Are there exceptions to the 8.33% rule?
A: In existing buildings where space constraints prevent compliance, steeper slopes may be allowed with specific safety features, but new construction should always meet the standard.
Q3: Do I need handrails for ADA compliant ramps?
A: Handrails are required on both sides of ramps with a rise greater than 6 inches or a horizontal projection greater than 72 inches.
Q4: How does slope affect wheelchair users?
A: Slopes steeper than 8.33% can be difficult or impossible for many wheelchair users to navigate independently and may pose safety risks.
Q5: Are there different requirements for different types of slopes?
A: Yes, cross slopes (perpendicular to the direction of travel) have a maximum of 2%, while running slopes (in the direction of travel) have the 8.33% maximum for ramps.