Highlights of the ADA
Americans with Disabilities Act (July 1, 1994) regarding Doors, Frames and hardware
This
outline is based on Builders Hardware's interpretation of the code, all information must
be verified and approved by a registered architect, professional engineer,
and/or authority having jurisdiction.
Numbers in brackets ( ) refer to applicable section of the publication.
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Clear Opening Width (4.13.5)
32" minimum
* measured with door open 90 degrees
* face of door to stop on strike jamb
* projection of hardware is not taken into account
* at least one leaf of a pair must comply
* shallow closets (less than 24") are exempt
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Thresholds (4-13.8)
1/2" high maximum (3/4" for exterior sliding doors)
slope no greater than 1:12
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Door Hardware (4-13.9)
shape of operating devices must be easy to grasp with one hand
no tight grasping, tight pinching, or twisting of the wrist to operate
levers and u-shaped handles are acceptable
no specific projection is required for pulls
no higher than 48" above finish floor
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Closing Speed (4-13.10)
sweep period - 3 seconds minimum
* from an open position of 70 degrees to a point 3 inches from the latch
* measured to the leading edge of the door
delayed action is not a code requirement
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Opening Force (4-13.11)
exterior hinged doors: (reserved)
interior hinged doors: 5 lbf maximum
sliding or folding doors: 5 lbf maximum
fire doors: up to the ahj
*size 3 is recommended for fire doors per NFPA 80
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Automatic Operators (4-13.12)
if automatic operators are used,
* shall be low energy type complying with ANSI/BHMA A156.19
* 3 seconds minimum to open to back check
* no more than 15 lbf to stop door movement
automatic operators can solve code problems
* clear opening width on pairs
* door opening force
* maneuvering clearances
* small vestibules
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