Houston ADA Handicap Ramps - Houston, Tx

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990 and ushered in a brand-new era of equal rights for people with disabilities. While the act is lengthy and complex, people encounter its requirements every day. One of the most common examples is Houston ADA Handicap ramps.

While some refer to these fixtures as simple wheelchair ramps, various people use them. They improve access, and property owners are federally required to have them. Failing to do so can result in steep fines, lawsuits and more.

Are Houston ADA Handicap Ramps Required in All Properties?

ADA handicap ramps are a requirement for all properties that serve the public. That includes commercial businesses, public facilities and more.

Handicap ramps in Houston are just one of many requirements property owners must install or construct to be ADA-compliant. Depending on what’s on your property, you may also need ADA parking spots, dedicated and marked walkways, accessible doors, etc.

Does OSHA Require ADA Ramps?

Many incorrectly believe that ADA ramp codes only apply to commercial properties open for business. However, the Occupational Safety Health and Administration (OSHA) requires them, too. Requirements for wheelchair ramps are part of OSHA standards 1926.451(e)(5) and 1926.651(c).

Handicap ramps must be installed on properties under construction. According to OSHA, all ADA ramps must be well-lit during the entire duration of construction. Furthermore, OSHA requires that sites have ramps where digging to depths of four feet or more is occurring.

Ramps must also have a slope of no higher than 30 degrees. For steeper slopes, ramps must have cleats no farther apart than 14 inches for traction. Depending on the site’s conditions and the ADA ramp’s construction, structures may also require guardrails.

What are the Requirements for Wheelchair Ramps?

ADA handicap ramps are more than simple slopes. Property owners must comply with several ADA ramp codes.

First, the ramp must be at least 30 inches wide to accommodate wheelchairs. Second, individual runs can be no more than 30 feet long. If the design requires ADA ramps to be longer, they must contain multiple runs. Each run needs a landing that’s at least 60 inches long.

It’s common for wheelchair ramps to contain multiple runs because there are limits to how high each run can rise. A single run can’t rise more than 30 inches across its length. The rise and run requirements ensure that the slope doesn’t exceed 1:12.

Are Requirements for Houston ADA Handicap Ramps the Same Everywhere?

The rules and regulations governing ADA handicap ramps are federal. That means the minimum requirements apply throughout the United States.

However, you may encounter slight variations in ADA ramp codes from one municipality to the next. That’s because many cities have ordinances with unique requirements that surpass ADA standards. ADA regulations for wheelchair ramps are the bare minimum, but your property must also meet codes in your area.

Handicap ramps in Houston are governed by the Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS).

Don’t leave your property’s handicap ramps up to chance or second-guessing. When you need Houston ADA handicaps done right, turn to Pavement Services. We have over four decades of experience serving clients in the Greater Houston area and are well-versed in the complexities of the ADA. We take accessibility seriously, and our team will work hard to create ramps that comply with all ADA ramp codes while giving your patrons an easier way to navigate your property.

In addition to ADA handicap ramps, you can turn to Pavement services for concrete foundations, parking lots, repair services and more. We also do asphalt paving, repair, sealcoating, stabilization and parking lot reclamation.

Let Pavement Services be your source for ADA-compliant ramps and structures. Call us today for a free quote and discuss the details of your project. You can reach us by phone at (713)661-9295, email us at info@pavementservice.com or use our online contact form to submit your information.