The Basics Of A Handicap Ramp

One of the most widely used accessories for the disabled is the handicap ramp. These handicap ramps allow individuals in wheelchairs to enter and exit a building where they normally would not be able to do so. These ramps are also highly useful for those with baby strollers, shopping carts or freight on a wheeled carrier. So they are not just for the disabled, although that is the primary purpose of these ramps. For a building with stairs, a ramp is necessary for access by certain individuals. Even buildings without stairs need a handicap accessible entrance.

disability aids

The ramp used by the disabled are planes placed on an incline. There are portable ramps as well as permanent ones. There are even semi-permanent wheelchair ramps. These ramps are placed on the ground or on a cement pad. Permanent ramps are usually held in place with cement or heavy duty bolts. The portable ramps fold into place for easy storage and are often crafted from lightweight yet durable aluminum. When it comes to the other types of ramps, wood and steel are the preferred building materials. There are benefits and drawbacks to each material.

Wood is cheaper than steel, but may not last as long due to wear and tear from the weather. Steel lasts longer, is usually more durable but also costs more. The design of a wheelchair ramp is extremely important, there are regulations that must be followed. For example most areas have minimum width requirements as well as slope requirements, which are for the safety of the disabled people using the ramp. In newly constructed public places a wheelchair ramp is mandatory through the Americans with Disabilities Act.

It is also entirely possible to outfit one's home with a handicap ramp. If you require one of these ramps at your home and do not currently have one, you will need to hire someone licensed and experienced in building handicap ramps and have it inspected for safety. There is no doubt that the wheelchair ramp is a necessity in today's world. It allows disabled individuals to access buildings that may have once been unaccessible. The Americans with Disabilities Act has done a lot for disabled people, not only have they made ramps mandatory but they also work to advocate for and assist those with disabilities.

 






 

Handicapped News:

 

OFT takes action in mobility aids sector - inAudit

inAudit

OFT takes action in mobility aids sector
inAudit
The OFT has taken action against several mobility aids traders, following a market study last year which found some firms were engaged in unfair business practices. The OFT has revoked the consumer credit licences of Amarjit Gill and his business .

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Disabled Passaic residents lose free handicapped parking
More than 200 disabled city residents for years received free handicapped parking spaces outside their homes. Now, the city is slapping them with a $50 fee...


Panel addresses student disabilities - The Dartmouth

The Dartmouth

Panel addresses student disabilities
The Dartmouth
She currently wears a brace and is determined to educate others about disability-related issues. Alex Rand '12, who is hard of hearing and wears a hearing aid, said most people at Dartmouth have been understanding and accommodating.

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Windows 8 to enhance aids for impaired users - GMA News

Windows 8 to enhance aids for impaired users
GMA News
Microsoft is working on enhancements to make its upcoming flagship operating system Windows 8 easily accessible for people with visual, hearing and mobility impairments. Jennifer Norberg, lead program manager for Microsoft's Human Interaction Platform .

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Handicapped trio couldn't make rent, evicted
WTNH screencap of three roommates EUR” Lisa Flack, Ruth Bihary and Chuck Wiberg EUR” evicted Thursday with nowhere to go...


Disabled city of Passaic residents lose free handicapped parking
More than 200 disabled city residents for years received free handicapped parking spaces outside their homes. Now, the city is slapping them with a $50 fee...


Man arrested after allegedly beating handicapped relative
A 30-year-old Sampson County man is facing serious charges after allegedly beating a handicapped relative and then, when arrested, being found to have marijuana in his possession. Anton Demetriu...


Hidden placard means fine for handicapped drivers
Drivers parking in the Derry's handicapped spaces will want to make sure their handicapped placard is clearly displayed unless they want to pay a fine...