ADA height requirements for thermostats

[jschmitz]

I understand that there are ADA height requirements of 48" for thermostats. Is there a range of heights that can be used (+/-) 48"? I also understand that it may very depending on if it is a front reach or side reach (from a wheel chair). Does anyone know the specifics on these requirements or where I can find them?

 

[websparky]

Re: ADA height requirements for thermostats

ADA Guidelines September 2002

4.2.5* Forward Reach. If the clear floor space only allows forward approach to an object, the maximum high forward reach allowed shall be 48 in (1220 mm) (see Fig. 5(a)). The minimum low forward reach is 15 in (380 mm). If the high forward reach is over an obstruction, reach and clearances shall be as shown in Fig. 5(b).

4.2.6* Side Reach. If the clear floor space allows parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair, the maximum high side reach allowed shall be 54 in (1370 mm) and the low side reach shall be no less than 9 in (230 mm) above the floor (Fig. 6(a) and (b)). If the side reach is over an obstruction, the reach and clearances shall be as shown in Fig 6(c).

 

[ryan_618]

Re: ADA height requirements for thermostats

You can also check the ANSI A117.1 48" is the maximum, 15" is the minimum.

 

[websparky]

Re: ADA height requirements for thermostats

American National Standard A117.1-1998.
308 Reach Ranges
308.1 General. Reach ranges shall comply with Section 308.
308.2 Forward Reach. 308.2.1 Unobstructed. Where a forward reach is unobstructed, the high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low forward reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the floor or ground.

308.3 Side Reach.
308.3.1 Unobstructed. Where a clear floor or ground space allows a parallel approach to an element and the side reach is unobstructed, the high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low side reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the floor or ground. EXCEPTION: Existing elements shall be permitted at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the floor or ground.

309 Operable Parts
309.1 General. Operable parts required to be accessible shall comply with Section 309. 309.2 Clear Floor or Ground Space. A clear floor or ground space complying with Section 305 shall be provided. 309.3 Height. Operable parts shall be placed within one or more of the reach ranges specified in Section 308.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Where the use of special equipment dictates
otherwise.
2. Where electrical and communications systems
receptacles are not normally intended
for use by building occupants.

[ November 06, 2003, 12:03 AM: Message edited by: websparky ]