Ramps, Stairs, and Elevators/Lifts
Core concepts
A ramp is any walking surface steeper than 1:20. Know maximum slope (1:12), maximum rise per run (30 in), landing requirements at top, bottom, and turns, handrails on both sides with specific height and extension, edge protection, and width. Ramps must connect to accessible routes and have level landings where doors open onto them.
Stairs in accessible routes must meet nosings, treads, risers, and handrail requirements, though stairs alone are not an accessible route. Elevators and platform lifts provide vertical access. Know elevator car dimensions, door clear width, controls height, tactile and braille markings, two-way communication, and the conditions under which platform lifts are permitted.
Traps in questions
- Forgetting the 30 in rise limit and landing between runs.
- Missing handrail extensions and the requirement for continuous gripping surfaces.
- Assuming stairs satisfy vertical access; they do not.
- Overlooking elevator hoistway and machine-space requirements, or communication and tactile controls.
Worked example
A 42 in rise must be overcome. Rule of thumb: with a 30 in maximum rise per run, provide at least two runs with a landing between them, handrails on both sides with extensions, and edge protection. Verify slope does not exceed 1:12 and landings are level.
Study tip
Build a checklist: slope, rise, landing, handrail, edge protection, width. Run it against every ramp question.