Author: MJT
Wheelchair Ramp: Allows Users Easy Access To Buildings
The wheelchair ramp is an inclined plane that can be
installed in place of stairs or as an addition to them. A ramp will allow users
of wheelchairs to easily access a building. To create a wheelchair ramp one
would need to carefully design it so that it meets the desired functionality
and, also conforms to any established standards. Such specifications could be
that the ramp should be of minimum width and, also have a slope not steeper
than a certain degree. Having a lesser incline will certainly facilitate easier
wheelchair navigation as well as be safer to use in icy conditions.
Determining Proper Length
One should also determine what the proper length of the ramp
for access by handicapped persons would be and, for this, it may require
determining the incline that the user’s wheelchair can climb. In addition, ADA
requirements need to be followed. The wheelchair ramp may be of many different
varieties with each one being used for different purposes. Some are permanent
while others may be semi-permanent or even portable. Permanent wheelchair ramps
may be bolted or cemented in place while semi-permanent ones could be resting
on top of the ground or cement pad and, be used for short durations of time. Aluminum
and lightweight ramps can be ported around and typically will fold for ease of
transportability.
According to ADA
rules and regulations, wheelchair ramps need to be in place in new
constructions for public accommodations. There are many types of wheelchair
ramps available that should help meet every need and, these include, among
others, Invacare, EZ-Access Threshold ramps, single fold and multi-fold ramps.
The Invacare model is a folding ramp that is easy to use as well as being
durable and, it helps in improving access for manual or power wheelchairs.
The EZ-Access threshold ramps are light in weight and, are
modular that cater to doorways, sliding glass doors as well as raised landings
and, can be used alone or in combination with another to make an exit and entry
combine. To be able to install a wheelchair ramp, one can check with their
community to see whether they have an assistance program to help seniors with
disabilities in modifying their homes for using wheelchair ramps. There are
sure to be many community service agencies that will provide free or low-cost
construction assistance to help the home are fitted with a wheelchair ramp. In
addition, there are also government agencies as well as local non-profit
organizations that help in wheelchair ramp modifications.
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