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Notice

The Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) rulemaking has concluded. The PROWAG final rule has been published in the Federal Register. Please visit the Access Board’s PROWAG page for the guidelines.

Comparison of NPRM and Existing Accessibility Guidelines for Buses, Vans, and Over-the-Road Buses

NPRMExisting Guidelines (36 CFR Part 1192)Changes
CHAPTER T1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISITRATION Subpart A – General  
T101 General.  This document contains scoping and technical requirements for vehicles that are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.  The requirements apply to the acquisition of new, used, and remanufactured vehicles and the remanufacture of existing vehicles to the extent required by regulations in 49 CFR Part 37 issued by the Department of Transportation under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). §1192.1 Purpose.

This part provides minimum guidelines and requirements for accessibility standards to be issued by the Department of Transportation in 49 CFR part 37 for transportation vehicles required to be accessible by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.

Clarifies that scoping and technical requirements apply to the acquisition of new, used, and remanufactured vehicles and the remanufacture of existing vehicles to the extent required by regulations issued by the Department of Transportation.
T102 Equivalent Facilitation.  The requirements in this document do not prevent the use of alternative designs and technologies that result in substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.  The Department of Transportation regulations contain procedures in 49 CFR §37.7 for determining whether alternative designs and technologies provide equivalent facilitation. §1192.2 Equivalent facilitation.

Departures from particular technical and scoping requirements of these guidelines by use of other designs and technologies are permitted where the alternative designs and technologies used will provide substantially equivalent or greater access to and usability of the vehicle.  Departures are to be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Department of Transportation under the procedure set forth in 49 CFR 37.7.

Editorial
T103 Conventions §1192.4 Miscellaneous instructions.  
T103.1 Dimensions.  Dimensions that are not stated as maximum or minimum are absolute. (a) Dimensional conventions. Dimensions that are not noted as minimum or maximum are absolute. Editorial
T103.2 Tolerances.  All dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances for manufacturing processes, material properties, and field conditions. §1192.4 Miscellaneous instructions.

(b) Dimensional tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional engineering tolerances for material properties and field conditions, including normal anticipated wear not exceeding accepted industry-wide standards and practices.

Editorial
T103.3 Figures.  Figures are provided for informational purposes only, except for Figure T703.   Explains purpose of figures.
T103.4 Units of Measurement.  Measurements are stated in metric and U.S. customary units.  The values stated in each system (metric or U.S. customary units) may not be exact equivalents, and each system shall be used independently of the other.   Explains units of measurement.
T103.5 Vehicle Length.  The length of buses, over-the-road buses, and vans is measured from standard bumper to standard bumper, exclusive of any additional protrusions.   Explains how vehicle length is measured.
T104 Definitions    
T104.1 General.  For the purpose of this document, the terms defined in T104.4 have the indicated meaning.  Terms used in this document that are defined in regulations issued by the Department of Transportation at 49 CFR 37.3 have the meaning indicated in those regulations.   Adopts definitions in Department of Transportation regulations.
T104.2 Undefined Terms.  The meaning of terms not specifically defined in T104.4 or in regulations issued by the Department of Transportation shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.   Uses collegiate dictionaries for undefined terms.
T104.3 Interchangeability.  Words, terms and phrases used in the singular include the plural; and words, terms and phrases used in the plural include the singular.   Explains that singular and plural are used interchangeably.
T104.4 Defined Terms.    
Boarding device.  A lift, ramp, or bridgeplate.   Adds definition for boarding device.
Bridgeplate. A short plate or short ramp designed to bridge a horizontal or vertical gap between a vehicle floor and a station platform, or between a vehicle floor and a lift platform.   Adds definition for bridgeplate.
Level boarding bus system.  A system in which buses operate where some or all of the designated stops have station platforms, and the design of the station platforms and the vehicles are coordinated to provide level boarding.   Adds definition for level boarding bus system.
Operable part.  A component of a device or system used to insert or withdraw objects, or to activate, deactivate, adjust, or connect to the device or system.  Operable parts include, but are not limited to, buttons, levers, knobs, smart card targets, coin and card slots, pull-cords, jacks, data ports, electrical outlets, and touch screens.   Adds definition for operable part.
Surface discontinuities.  Differences in level between two adjacent surfaces.   Adds definition for surface discontinuities.
CHAPTER T2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS    

T201 General.  New, used, and remanufactured vehicles shall comply with the scoping requirements in Chapter T2 to the extent required by regulations in 49 CFR Part 37 issued by the Department of Transportation under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.21 General.

(a) New, used or remanufactured buses and vans (except over-the-road buses covered by subpart G of this part), to be considered accessible by regulations issued by the Department of Transportation in 49 CFR part 37, shall comply with the applicable provisions of this subpart.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.151 General.

(a) New, used and remanufactured over-the-road buses, to be considered accessible by regulations issued by the Department of Transportation in 49 CFR part 37, shall comply with this subpart.

(b) Over-the-road buses covered by 49 CFR 37.7(c) shall comply with §1192.23 and this subpart.

T202 Reduction in Access Prohibited.  Modifications to an accessible vehicle shall not decrease or have the effect of decreasing the accessibility of the vehicle below the requirements of this document that are in effect at the time of the modification. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.21 General.

(b) If portions of the vehicle are modified in a way that affects or could affect accessibility, each such portion shall comply, to the extent practicable, with the applicable provisions of this subpart.  This provision does not require that inaccessible buses be retrofitted with lifts, ramps or other boarding devices.

Clarifies that modifications to an accessible vehicle must not reduce the accessibility of the vehicle below the requirements in effect at the time of the modification.
T203 Buses, Over-the-Road Buses, and Vans    
T203.1 General.  Buses, over-the-road buses, and vans shall comply with T203.   Introductory section
T203.2 Accessible Boarding.  Vehicles shall provide accessible boarding in accordance with T203.2.   Introductory section
T203.2.1 Minimum Requirement for All Vehicles.  All vehicles shall provide in at least one doorway lifts or ramps that are capable of being deployed to all designated stops on the route to which the vehicle is assigned and to the roadway. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a) General.  All vehicles covered by this subpart shall provide a level-change mechanism or boarding device (e.g., lift or ramp)…

(b) Vehicle lift.

(2) Controls –

(i) Requirements …The lift shall deploy to all levels (i.e., ground, curb, and intermediate positions) normally encountered in the operating environment.

Clarifies that lifts and ramps must be capable of being deployed to all designated stops and to the roadway

Eliminates exception permitting use of portable or station based boarding devices for over-the-road buses.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a)(1) General.  [Same as §1192.23(a)]

(2) Exception.  If portable or station-based lifts, ramps or bridge plates meeting the applicable requirements of this section are provided at stations or other stops required to be accessible under regulations issued by the Department of Transportation, the bus is not required to be equipped with a vehicle-borne device.

(b) Vehicle lift.

(2) Controls –

(i) Requirements.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(2)(i) above.]

T203.2.1.1 Lifts.  Lifts shall comply with T302.   See T302
T203.2.1.2 Ramps. Ramps shall comply with T303.  Ramps provided on vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length shall be permanently installed and power operated.  Vehicles that operate only in level boarding bus systems where all the designated stops have station platforms shall be permitted to provide on board the vehicle portable ramps that are capable of being deployed to the roadway.   See T303

Requires ramps on vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length to be permanently installed and power operated.

Permits portable ramps on vehicles that operate only in level boarding bus systems where all the stops have station platforms.

T203.2.2 Additional Requirements for Level Boarding Bus Systems.  Vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems shall comply with the additional requirements in T203.2.2.   Introductory section
T203.2.2.1 Vehicle Floor and Station Platform Coordination.  The design of the vehicles shall be coordinated with the station platforms to minimize the gap between the vehicle floor and the station platforms.   Requires design of vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems to be coordinated with station platforms.
T203.2.2.2 Ramps and Bridgeplates.  Where the gap between the vehicle floor and the station platforms is greater than 51 mm (2 inches) horizontally or 16 mm (⅝ inch) vertically when measured at 50 percent passenger load with the vehicle at rest, vehicles shall provide ramps or bridgeplates that are capable of being deployed to the station platforms in accordance with T203.2.2.2.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall comply with T303, and shall be permanently installed and power operated.   Requires ramps or bridgeplates where gap between the vehicle floor and the station platforms exceeds 51 mm (2 inches) horizontally or 16 mm (⅝ inch) vertically.
T203.2.2.2.1 Doorways on One Side of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on one side of the vehicle to serve station platforms, vehicles shall provide ramps or bridgeplates in at least one doorway.   Requires ramps or bridgeplates in at least one doorway where doorways are provided on one side of the vehicle.
T203.2.2.2.2 Doorways on Two Sides of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on two sides of the vehicle to serve station platforms, vehicles shall provide ramps or bridgeplates in at least one doorway on each side of the vehicle.   Requires ramps or bridgeplates in at least one doorway on each side of vehicle where doorways are provided on two sides of the vehicle.
T203.3 Wheelchair Spaces.  Vehicles shall provide wheelchair spaces complying with T402 in accordance with T203.3.   Introductory section
T203.3.1 Large Vehicles.  Vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length shall provide at least two wheelchair spaces. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a) General.  At least two securement locations … shall be provided on vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length …

Editorial

 

 

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a)(1) General.  … At least two securement locations … shall be provided.

T203.3.2 Small Vehicles.  Vehicles 6.7 m (22 feet) or less in length shall provide at least one wheelchair space. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a) General.  …at least one securement location … shall be provided on vehicles 22 feet in length or less.

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T203.3.3 Location.  Wheelchair spaces shall be located as near as practicable to doorways that provide accessible boarding complying with T203.2. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices. 

(2) Location and size.  The securement system shall be placed as near to the accessible entrance as practicable …

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices.

(2) Location and size.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(2) above.]

T203.3.4 Signs.  Wheelchair spaces shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with T703. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(b) Each securement location shall have a sign designating it as such.

Clarifies that International Symbol of Accessibility must be used to identify wheelchair spaces.
T203.4 Circulation Paths.  Circulation paths on vehicles shall comply with T203.4.   Introductory section
T203.4.1 Surfaces.  All circulation path surfaces shall comply with T802.   See T802
T203.4.2 Wheelchair Spaces.  Circulation paths shall connect each wheelchair space to doorways in accordance with T203.4.2.  Circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall comply with T502.   See T502
T203.4.2.1 Doorways with Boarding Devices.  On all vehicles, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway with a boarding device that can be deployed to the roadway.  Where a portable ramp is permitted to be provided on board a vehicle by T203.2.1.2, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway where the portable ramp can be deployed to the roadway.

 

Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a) General.  All vehicles covered by this subpart shall provide … sufficient clearances to permit a wheelchair or other mobility aid user to reach a securement location.

Clarifies that a circulation path must connect each wheelchair space to a doorway with a boarding device that can be deployed to the roadway.
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a)(1) General.  [Same as §1192.23(a) above.]

T203.4.2.2 Additional Requirements for Level Boarding Bus Systems.  Vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems shall comply with the additional requirements in T203.4.2.2.   Introductory section
T203.4.2.2.1 Doorways on One Side of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on one side of the vehicle to serve station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway that provides accessible boarding complying with T203.2.2.   Requires a circulation path to connect each wheelchair space to a doorway that provides accessible boarding on vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems where doorways are provided on one side of the vehicle.
T203.4.2.2.2 Doorways on Two Sides of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on two sides of the vehicle to serve station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway on each side of the vehicle that provides accessible boarding complying with T203.2.2.   Requires a circulation path to connect each wheelchair space to a doorway on each side of the vehicle that provides accessible boarding on vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems where doorways are provided on two sides of the vehicle.
T203.5 Doorways.  Doorways on vehicles shall comply with T203.5.   Introductory section
T203.5.1 Doorways with Lifts or Ramps.  Doorways with lifts or ramps shall comply with T503.1.   See T503.1
T203.5.2.  Doorways with Level Entry Boarding.  Doorways with level entry boarding shall comply with T503.2.   See T503.2
T203.5.3 Doorways on Over-the-Road Buses.  Doorways on over-the-road buses shall comply with T503.3.   See T503.3
T203.5.4 Signs.  Doorways that provide accessible boarding complying with T203.2 shall be identified on the exterior of the vehicle by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with T703.  Where all the doorways provide accessible boarding complying with T203.2, the doorways shall not be required to be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility.   Requires doorways that provide accessible boarding to be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility, unless all doorways provide accessible boarding.
T203.5.5 Lighting.  Where lighting is provided at doorways, lighting shall comply with T803.   See T803
T203.6 Steps.  Steps on vehicles shall comply with T504.   See T504
T203.7 Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds.  Vehicles shall provide handrails, stanchions, and handholds complying with T505 in accordance with T203.7.   Introductory section
T203.7.1 All Vehicles.  All vehicles shall provide handrails and stanchions at passenger doorways, at fare collection devices where provided on vehicles, and along all circulation paths. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) Handrails and stanchions shall be provided in the entrance to the vehicle in a configuration which allows persons with disabilities to grasp such assists from outside the vehicle while starting to board, and to continue using such assists throughout the boarding and fare collection process.  …

(d) Handrails and stanchions shall be sufficient to permit safe boarding, on-board circulation, seating and standing assistance, and alighting by persons with disabilities.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a) Handrails and stanchions shall be provided in the entrance to the vehicle in a configuration which allows passengers to grasp such assists from outside the vehicle while starting to board, and to continue using such handrails or stanchions throughout the boarding process…

(b) Where provided within passenger compartments, handrails and stanchions shall be sufficient to permit safe boarding, on-board circulation, seating and standing assistance, and alighting by persons with disabilities.

T203.7.2 Large Vehicles.  Vehicles more than 6.7m (22 feet) in length shall provide handholds, stanchions, or handrails at forward and rear facing seats in accordance with T203.7.2.   Introductory section
T203.7.2.1 Non-Reclining Low-Back Seats.  Handholds or stanchions shall be provided on the back on non-reclining low-back seats.   Clarifies location of handholds or stanchions on large vehicles with non-reclining low-back seats.
T203.7.2.2 Reclining High-Back Seats.  Handrails shall be provided overhead or on overhead luggage racks at reclining high-back seats.   Clarifies location of handrails on large vehicles with reclining high-back seats.
T203.8 Wheelchair Securement Systems.  Vehicles shall provide wheelchair securement systems complying with T403 at each wheelchair space. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a) General.  At least two securement … devices … shall be provided on vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length … at least one securement … device … shall be provided on vehicles 22 feet in length or less.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a)(1) General.  … At least two securement … devices … shall be provided.

T203.9 Seat Belts and Shoulder Belts.  Vehicles shall provide seat belts and shoulder belts complying with T404 at each wheelchair space. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(7) Seat belt and shoulder harness.  For each … securement device provided, a passenger seat belt and shoulder harness …shall also be provided …

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(7) Seat belt and shoulder harness.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(7) above.]

T203.10 Seats.  Seats on vehicles shall comply with T203.10.   Introductory section
T203.10.1 Priority Seats.  Vehicles operated in fixed route systems shall designate at least two seats as priority seats for passengers with disabilities.  The priority seats shall be located as near as practicable to a doorway that is used for both boarding and alighting.  Where aisle facing seats and forward facing seats are provided, one of the priority seats shall be an aisle facing seat, and one of the priority seats shall be a forward facing seat. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(a) Each vehicle shall contain sign(s) which indicate that seats in the front of the vehicle are priority seats for persons with disabilities, and that other passengers should make such seats available to those who wish to use them.  At least one set of forward-facing seats shall be so designated.

Clarifies number of seats that are required to be designated as priority seats for passengers with disabilities and the location of the priority seats.
T203.10.2 Signs.  Priority seats required by T203.10.1 shall be identified by signs complying with T702 that inform other passengers to make the seats available to passengers with disabilities. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(a) Each vehicle shall contain sign(s) which indicate that seats in the front of the vehicle are priority seats for persons with disabilities, and that other passengers should make such seats available to those who wish to use them.

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T203.10.3 Aisle Seats on Over-the-Road Buses.  Where armrests are provided on the aisle side of seats on over-the-road buses, the aisle seats shall comply with T203.11.2.   Introductory section
T203.10.3.1 Moveable or Removable Seats.  Folding or removable armrests shall be provided on the aisle side of all moveable or removable seats at wheelchair spaces. Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.161 Moveable aisle armrests.

…all moveable or removable seats at wheelchair or mobility aide securement locations, shall have an armrest on the aisle side which can be raised, removed, or retracted to permit easy entry or exit.

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T203.10.3.2 Fixed Seats.  Folding or removable armrests shall be provided on the aisle side of at least 25 percent of all fixed aisle seats. Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.161 Moveable aisle armrests.

A minimum of 50% of aisle seats … shall have an armrest on the aisle side which can be raised, removed, or retracted to permit easy entry or exit.

Modifies scoping requirement for moveable armrests on over-the-road buses from 50 percent of aisle seats, including all moveable or removable seats at wheelchair spaces, to 25 percent of fixed aisle seats and all moveable or removable seats at wheelchair spaces.
T203.11 Destination and Route Signs.  Where signs displaying destination or route information are provided on the exterior of a vehicle, the signs shall be provided on the front and boarding side of the vehicle.  The signs shall be illuminated and shall comply with T702. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.39 Destination and route signs.

(a) Where destination or route information is displayed on the exterior of a vehicle, each vehicle shall have illuminated signs on the front and boarding side of the vehicle.

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T203.12 Public Address System.  Vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length that operate in fixed route systems and stop at multiple designated stops shall provide a public address system to announce stops and provide other passenger information within the vehicle. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.35 Public information system.

(a) Vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length, used in multiple-stop, fixed-route service, shall be equipped with a public address system permitting the driver, or recorded or digitized human speech messages, to announce stops and provide other passenger information within the vehicle.

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T203.13 Automated Stop and Route Announcements.  Public entities that operate 100 or more buses in annual maximum service in fixed route systems, as reported in the National Transit Database in accordance with 49 CFR Part 630, shall provide automated stop and route announcements complying with T704 on buses that are more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length and operate in fixed route systems.   Requires public entities that operate 100 or more buses in annual maximum service in fixed route systems to provide automated stop and route announcements.
T203.14 Stop Request Systems.  Vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length that operate in fixed route systems and stop at multiple designated stops on passenger request shall provide stop request systems complying with T705. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.37 Stop request.

(a) Where passengers may board or alight at multiple stops at their option, vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length shall provide controls … for requesting stops …

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T203.15 Fare Collection Devices.  Where fare collection devices are provided on vehicles, fare collection devices shall comply with T806.   See T806
CHAPTER T3: BOARDING DEVICES    
T301 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T3 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.   Introductory section
T302 Lifts    
T302.1 General.  Lifts shall comply with T302.   Introductory section
T302.2 Design Load.  The lift design load shall be 273 kg (600 pounds) minimum.  Load carrying components that are subject to wear shall have a design safety factor of at least six, based on the ultimate strength of the material.  Other components that are not subject to wear shall have a design safety factor of at least three, based on the ultimate strength of the material. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(1) Design load.  The design load of the lift shall be at least 600 pounds.  Working parts, such as cables, pulleys, and shafts, which can be expected to wear, and upon which the lift depends for support of the load, shall have a safety factor of at least six, based on the ultimate strength of the material.  Nonworking parts, such as platform, frame, and attachment hardware which would not be expected to wear, shall have a safety factor of at least three, based on the ultimate strength of the material.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(1) Design load.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(1) above.]

T302.3 Controls.  Lift controls shall comply with T302.3.   Introductory section
T302.3.1 Interlocks.  Lift controls shall be interlocked with the vehicle brakes, transmission, propulsion system, or door, or shall provide other systems to prevent the vehicle from moving when the lift is not stowed.  Lift controls shall not be operable unless the interlocks are engaged. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(2) Controls

(i) Requirements.  The controls shall be interlocked with the vehicle brakes, transmission, or door, or shall provide other appropriate mechanisms or systems, to ensure that the vehicle cannot be moved when the lift is not stowed and so the lift cannot be deployed unless the interlocks or systems are engaged.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(2) Controls

(i) Requirements.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(2)(i) above.]

T302.3.2 Sequence.  Lift controls shall be of a momentary contact type requiring continuous manual pressure.  Lift controls shall permit the operator to change the operation sequence.  Lift controls shall not permit the lift platform to be folded, retracted, or stowed when occupied, unless the platform is designed to be occupied when stowed in the passenger area of the vehicle. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(2) Controls

(i) Requirements.  …Where provided, each control for deploying, lowering, raising, and stowing the lift and lowering the roll-off barrier shall be of a momentary contact type requiring continuous manual pressure by the operator and shall not allow improper lift sequencing when the lift platform is occupied.  The controls shall allow reversal of the lift operation sequence, such as raising or lowering a platform that is part way down, without allowing an occupied platform to fold or retract into the stowed position.

(ii) Exception.  Where the lift is designed to deploy with its long dimension parallel to the vehicle axis and which pivots into or out of the vehicle while occupied (i.e., “rotary lift”), the requirements of this paragraph prohibiting the lift from being stowed while occupied shall not apply if the stowed position is within the passenger compartment and the lift is intended to be stowed while occupied.

Editorial
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(2) Controls

(i) Requirements.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(2)(i) above.]

T302.4 Manual Operation.  Lifts shall be capable of being operated manually if the power to the lift fails.  The manual operation shall be safe for the occupant and operator when operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.  When operated manually, the lift platform shall deploy and lower to the boarding and alighting area or the roadway with an occupant; shall rise to the vehicle floor without an occupant; and shall stow.  The lift platform shall not fold, retract, or stow when occupied, unless the platform is designed to be occupied when stowed in the passenger area of the vehicle.  Doors that must be opened to allow the lift to operate shall have interior and exterior manual releases. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(3) Emergency operation.  The lift shall incorporate an emergency method of deploying, lowering to ground level with a lift occupant, and raising and stowing the empty lift if the power to the lift fails.  No emergency method, manual or otherwise, shall be capable of being operated in a manner that could be hazardous to the lift occupant or to the operator when operated according to manufacturer’s instructions, and shall not permit the platform to be stowed or folded when occupied, unless the lift is a rotary lift and is intended to be stowed while occupied.

Requires interior and exterior releases on doors that must be opened to allow emergency operation of the lift.
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(3) Emergency operation.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(3) above.]

T302.5 Platforms.  Lift platforms shall comply with T302.5.   Introductory section
T302.5.1 Surfaces.  Lift platform surfaces shall comply with T802.   See T802
T302.5.2 Size.  The lift platform clear width shall be 720 mm (28½ inches) minimum measured at the platform surface, and 760 mm (30 inches) minimum measured from 51 mm (2 inches) above the platform surface to 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the platform surface.  The lift platform clear length shall be 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum measured at the platform surface and 1220 mm (48 inches) minimum measured from 51 mm (2 inches) above the platform surface to 1015 mm (40 inches) above the platform surface.

 

Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(6) Platform surface.  …The platform shall have a minimum clear width of 28½ inches at the platform, a minimum clear width of 30 inches measured from 2 inches above the platform surface to 30 inches above the platform, and a minimum clear length of 48 inches measured from 2 inches above the surface of the platform to 30 inches above the surface of the platform.

Increases height of clear width and clear length from 760 mm (30 inches) to 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the platform surface.

 

Clarifies clear length measured at the platform surface is 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(6) Platform surface.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(6) above.]

T302.5.3 Edge Barriers.  Lift platforms shall have edge barriers complying with Table T302.5.3 to prevent the wheels of wheelchairs from rolling off the platforms.  Openings between lift platform surfaces and raised barriers shall not permit passage of a sphere 16 mm (⅝ inch) in diameter.  Edge barriers shall not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs.
Table T302.5.3 Lift Platform Edge Barriers
Side of Lift PlatformEdge Barrier Required
Side of lift platform used to enter and exit the platform at boarding and alighting area Moveable barrier or supplementary system capable of preventing power wheelchairs from riding over or defeating the barrier or supplementary system.  The barrier or supplementary system shall automatically raise or engage, and remain raised or engaged when the lift platform is more than 75 mm (3 inches) above the boarding and alighting area level.  The barrier or supplementary system shall be permitted to be operated manually if an interlock or other design feature prevents the lift from operating unless the barrier or supplementary system is raised or engaged.
Side of lift platform used to enter and exit the vehicle Moveable barrier or other design feature to prevent the wheels of wheelchairs from rolling off the lift platform when the platform is not at the vehicle floor level
Other sides of lift platform Barriers 38 mm (1½ inches) high minimum
Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(5) Platform barriers.  The lift platform shall be equipped with barriers to prevent any of the wheels of a wheelchair or mobility aid from rolling off the platform during its operation.  A movable barrier or inherent design feature shall prevent a wheelchair or mobility aid from rolling off the edge closest to the vehicle until the platform is in its fully raised position.  Each side of the lift platform which extends beyond the vehicle in its raised position shall have a barrier a minimum 1½ inches high.  Such barriers shall not interfere with maneuvering into or out of the aisle.  The loading-edge barrier (outer barrier) which functions as a loading ramp when the lift is at ground level, shall be sufficient when raised or closed, or a supplementary system shall be provided, to prevent a power wheelchair or mobility aid from riding over or defeating it.  The outer barrier of the lift shall automatically raise or close, or a supplementary system shall automatically engage, and remain raised, closed, or engaged at all times that the platform is more than 3 inches above the roadway or sidewalk and the platform is occupied.  Alternatively, a barrier or system may be raised, lowered, opened, closed, engaged, or disengaged by the lift operator, provided an interlock or inherent design feature prevents the lift from rising unless the barrier is raised or closed or the supplementary system is engaged.

(7) Platform gaps.  Any openings between the platform surface and the raised barriers shall not exceed ⅝ inch in width.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(5) Platform barriers.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(5) above.]

(7) Platform gaps.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(7) above.]

T302.5.4 Gaps.  When the lift platform is at the vehicle floor level and any edge barrier is lowered, the gap between the platform surface and the vehicle floor shall not permit passage of a sphere 16 mm (⅝ inch) in diameter. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(7) Platform gaps.  When the platform is at vehicle floor height with the inner barrier (if applicable) down or retracted, gaps between the forward lift platform edge and the vehicle floor shall not exceed ½ inch horizontally and ⅝ inch vertically.

Modifies gap to be consistent with T302.5.3.
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(7) Platform gaps.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(7) above.]

T302.5.5 Threshold Ramps.  Threshold ramps from boarding and alighting areas to lift platforms and edge barriers used as threshold ramps shall have slopes not steeper than 1:8 (12.5 percent) for a rise of 75 mm (3 inches) maximum.  The slope shall be measured when the lift platform is level.  Surface discontinuities at transitions from boarding and alighting areas to threshold ramps shall comply with T802.5. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(8) Platform entrance ramp.  The entrance ramp, or loading-edge barrier used as a ramp, shall not exceed a slope of 1:8, measured on level ground, for a maximum rise of 3 inches …

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(8) Platform entrance ramp.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(8) above.]

T302.5.6 Visual Contrast.  The perimeter of the lift platform surface shall be outlined.  The outline shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the platform surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

 

Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.25 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(b) Contrast.  …the boarding edge of … lift platforms shall have a band of color(s) running the full width of the … edge which contrasts from the … lift …surface, either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

Harmonizes requirement for visual contrast on sides of lift platform with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) (49 CFR 571.403, S6.4.10).
T302.5.7 Deflection.  When occupied, lift platforms shall be permitted to deflect 3 degrees maximum in any direction with respect to the platform’s unloaded position, exclusive of vehicle roll or pitch. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(9) Platform deflection.  The lift platform (not including the entrance ramp) shall not deflect more than 3 degrees (exclusive of vehicle roll or pitch) in any direction between its unloaded position and its position when loaded with 600 pounds applied through a 26 inch by 26 inch test pallet at the centroid of the platform.

Eliminates test for deflection of lift platform.  Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) (49 CFR 571.403, S6.4.10) specifies performance test for deflection of lift platform.
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(9) Platform deflection.  [Same as §1192.23(b) (9) above.]

T302.5.8 Movement.  Lift platform movement shall comply with T302.5.8.   Introductory section
T302.5.8.1 Normal Operating Conditions.  When occupied, lift platforms shall move at a rate of 150 mm/second (6 inches/second) maximum, and the horizontal and vertical acceleration shall be 0.3g maximum under normal operating conditions.  When folding, retracting, or stowing, lift platforms shall move at a rate of 306 mm/second (12 inches/second) maximum under normal operating conditions, unless the platform is folded and stowed manually. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(10) Platform movement.  No part of the platform shall move at a rate exceeding 6 inches/second during lowering and lifting an occupant, and shall not exceed 12 inches/second during deploying or stowing.  This requirement does not apply to the deployment or stowage cycles of lifts that are manually deployed or stowed.  The maximum platform horizontal and vertical acceleration when occupied shall be 0.3g.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(10) Platform movement.  [Same as §1192.23 (b)(10) above.]

T302.5.8.2 Power or Equipment Failure.  In the event of a power failure or single failure of any load carrying component, lift platforms that are occupied or are stowed in a vertical position shall move at rate of 306 mm/second (12 inches/second) maximum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(4) Power or equipment failure.  Platforms stowed in a vertical position, and deployed platforms when occupied, shall have provisions to prevent their deploying, falling, or folding any faster than 12 inches/second or their dropping of an occupant in the event of a single failure of any load carrying component.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(4) Power or equipment failure.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(4) above.]

T302.5.9 Boarding Direction.  Lift platforms shall permit passengers who use wheelchairs to board the platforms facing either toward or away from the vehicle. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(11) Boarding direction.  The lift shall permit both inboard and outboard facing of wheelchair and mobility aid users.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(11) Boarding direction.  [Same as §1192.23(b) (11) above.]

T302.5.10 Standees.  Lift platforms shall be usable by passengers who use walkers, crutches, canes, or braces or who otherwise have difficulty using steps.  Lift platforms shall be permitted to be marked to indicate a preferred standing position. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(12) Use by standees.  Lifts shall accommodate persons using walkers, crutches, canes or braces or who otherwise have difficulty using steps.  The platform may be marked to indicate a preferred standing position.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(12) Use by standees.  [Same as §1192.23(b) (12) above.]

T302.5.11 Handrails.  Lifts platforms shall have handrails complying with T804 on two sides of the platform that move in tandem with the platform to provide support for passengers in a standing position.  Handrails shall have a usable gripping surface 205 mm (8 inches) long minimum.  The gripping surface shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum and 965 mm (38 inches) maximum above the lift platform surface.  Handrails shall not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  Platforms on lifts shall be equipped with handrails on two sides, which move in tandem with the lift, and which shall be graspable and provide support to standees throughout the entire lift operation.  Handrails shall have a usable component at least 8 inches long with the lowest portion a minimum 30 inches above the platform and the highest portion a maximum 38 inches above the platform.  … Handrails shall not interfere with wheelchair or mobility aid maneuverability when entering or leaving the vehicle.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(13) above.]

T303 Ramps and Bridgeplates    
T303.1 General.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall comply with T303.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall be permitted to fold or telescope if all the requirements of T303 are met. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(5) Slope… Folding or telescoping ramps are permitted provided they meet all structural requirements of this section.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(5) Slope.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(13) above.]

T303.2 Design Load.  The design load of ramps and bridgeplates 760 mm (30 inches) or more in length shall be 273 kg (600 pounds) minimum.  The design load of ramps and bridgeplates less than 760 mm (30 inches) in length shall be 136 kg (300 pounds) minimum.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall have a design safety factor of at least 3, based on the ultimate strength of the material. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(1) Design load.  Ramps 30 inches or longer shall support a load of 600 pounds, placed at the centroid of the ramp distributed over an area of 26 inches by 26 inches, with a safety factor of at least 3 based on the ultimate strength of the material.  Ramps shorter than 30 inches shall support a load of 300 pounds.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(1) Design load.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(1) above.]

T303.3 Attachment.  When used for boarding and alighting, ramps and bridgeplates shall be firmly attached to the vehicle and shall not be subject to displacement from the vehicle. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(6) Attachment.  When in use for boarding or alighting, the ramp shall be firmly attached to the vehicle so that it is not subject to displacement when loading or unloading a heavy power mobility aid …

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(6) Attachment.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(6) above.]

T303.4 Emergency Operation.  Power operated ramps and bridgeplates shall be capable of being operated manually and in a manner that is safe for the occupant and operator if the power fails.   Requires manual operation of power operated ramps and bridgeplates in event of power failure.

 

T303.5 Surfaces.  Ramp and bridgeplate surfaces shall comply with T802, and shall be uninterrupted from edge to edge. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(2) Ramp surface.  The ramp surface shall be continuous …

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(2) Ramp surface.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(2) above.]

T303.6 Clear Width.  The ramp and bridgeplate clear width shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(2) Ramp surface.  The ramp surface … shall have a clear width of 30 inches …

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(2) Ramp surface.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(2) above.]

T303.7 Edge Barriers.  The edges of ramps and bridgeplates that are more than 75 mm (3 inches) above the boarding and alighting area level shall have barriers 51 mm (2 inches) high minimum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(4) Ramp barriers.  Each side of the ramp shall have barriers at least 2 inches high to prevent mobility aid wheels from slipping off.

Clarifies that edge barriers required where edges of ramps and bridgeplates are more than 75 mm (3 inches) above the boarding and alighting area.
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(4) Ramp barriers.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(4) above.]

T303.8 Slope.  Ramp and bridgeplate slopes shall comply with T303.8 when measured at 50 percent passenger load.   Clarifies that ramp and bridgeplate slopes are measured at 50 percent passenger load.
T303.8.1 General.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall have slopes not steeper than 1:6 (17 percent) when deployed to boarding and alighting areas without station platforms and to the roadway. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(5) Slope.  Ramps shall have the least slope practicable and shall not exceed 1:4 when deployed to ground level.  If the height of the vehicle floor from which the ramp is deployed is 3 inches or less above a 6 inch curb, a maximum slope of 1:4 is permitted; if the height of the vehicle floor from which the ramp is deployed is 6 inches or less, but greater than 3 inches, above a 6 inch curb, a maximum slope of 1:6 is permitted; if the height of the vehicle floor from which the ramp is deployed is 9 inches or less, but greater than 6 inches, above a 6 inch curb, a maximum slope of 1:8 is permitted; if the height of the vehicle floor from which the ramp is deployed is greater than 9 inches above a 6 inch curb, a slope of 1:12 shall be achieved.

Modifies slope to not exceed 1:6 when deployed to boarding and alighting areas without station platforms and to the roadway.
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(5) Slope.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(5) above.]

T303.8.2 Station Platforms.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall have slopes not steeper than 1:8 (12.5 percent) when deployed to station platforms.   Modifies slope to not exceed 1:8 when deployed to station platforms.
T303.9 Transitions.  Surface discontinuities at transitions from boarding and alighting areas to ramps and bridgeplates shall comply with T802.5.   See T802.5
T303.10 Visual Contrast.  The perimeter of the ramp and bridgeplate surface shall be outlined.  The outline shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the ramp and bridgeplate surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.25 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(b) Contrast.  …the boarding edge of ramps shall have a band of color(s) running the full width of the … edge which contrasts from the … ramp surface, either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

Modifies requirement for visual contrast to apply to all sides of ramps and bridgeplates.
T303.11 Gaps.  When deployed for boarding and alighting, gaps between the ramp or bridgeplate surface and vehicle floor shall not permit passage of a sphere more than 16 mm (⅝ inch) in diameter.

 

Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(6) Attachment.  When in use for boarding or alighting … no gap between vehicle and ramp exceeds ⅝ inch.

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(6) Attachment.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(6) above.]

T303.12 Stowage.  Where portable ramps or bridgeplates are permitted, a compartment, securement system, or other method shall be provided within the vehicle to stow the ramps and bridgeplates when not in use.  When stowed in passenger areas, portable ramps and bridgeplates shall not pose a hazard to passengers, and shall not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs.

 

Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(7) Stowage.  A compartment, securement system, or other appropriate method shall be provided to ensure that stowed ramps, including portable ramps stowed in the passenger area, do not impinge on a passenger’s wheelchair or mobility aid or pose any hazard to passengers in the event of a sudden stop or maneuver.

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(7) Stowage.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(7) above.]

CHAPTER T4: WHEELCHAIR SPACES AND SECUREMENT SYSTEMS    
T401 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T4 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.   Introductory section
T402 Wheelchair Spaces    
T402.1 General.  Wheelchair spaces shall comply with T402.   Introductory section
T402.2 Surfaces.  Wheelchair space surfaces shall comply with T802.   See T802
T402.3 Approach.  One full unobstructed side of each wheelchair space shall adjoin or overlap a circulation path complying with T502. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(2) Location and size.  The securement system … shall have a clear floor area of 30 inches by 48 inches.  Such space shall adjoin, and may overlap, an access path.

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(d) Securement devices

(2) Location and size.  [Same as §1192.23(d) (2) above.]

T402.4 Size.  Wheelchair spaces shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum by 1220 mm (48 inches) minimum.  Where the wheelchair space is confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering space complying with T402.4.1 or T402.4.2 shall be provided.  Fold-down seats shall be permitted to occupy the wheelchair space and additional maneuvering space provided the spaces are not obstructed when the seats are in the up position.  Fold-down seats shall be permitted to occupy the additional maneuvering space when the wheelchair space is occupied. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(2) Location and size.  The securement system … shall have a clear floor area of 30 inches by 48 inches… Securement areas may have fold-down seats to accommodate other passengers when a wheelchair or mobility aid is not occupying the area, provided the seats, when folded up, do not obstruct the clear floor space required.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(2) Location and size.  [Same as §1192.23(d) (2) above.]

T402.4.1 Front or Rear Entry.  Where the short side of the wheelchair space is entered from the front or rear and the confined space is more than 610 mm (24 inches) deep, the wheelchair space and additional maneuvering space shall be 787 mm (31 inches) minimum by 1220 mm (48 inches) minimum.   Requires 27 mm (1 inch) maneuvering space where short side of confined wheelchair space is entered from front or rear.
T402.4.2 Side Entry.  Where the long side of the wheelchair space is entered from the side and the confined space is more than 380 mm (15 inches) deep, the wheelchair space and additional maneuvering space shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum by 1372 mm (54 inches) minimum.   Requires 152 mm (6 inches) maneuvering space where long side of confined wheelchair space is entered from side.
T403 Wheelchair Securement Systems    
T403.1 General.  Wheelchair securement systems, including attachments, shall comply with T403.  Wheelchair securement systems shall be capable of securing wheelchairs that can enter and maneuver within an accessible vehicle.  Wheelchair securement systems shall be automatic or easy to operate by a trained person. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(3) Mobility aids accommodated. The securement system shall secure common wheelchairs and mobility aids and shall either be automatic or easily attached by a person familiar with the system and mobility aid and having average dexterity.

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(3) Mobility aids accommodated.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(3) above.]

T403.2 Orientation.  Wheelchair securement systems shall secure the wheelchair so that the occupant faces the front or rear of the vehicle. On vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length, at least one wheelchair securement system shall be front facing. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  In vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length, at least one securement device or system required by paragraph (a) of this section shall secure the wheelchair or mobility aid facing toward the front of the vehicle.  In vehicles 22 feet in length or less, the required securement device may secure the wheelchair or mobility aid either facing toward the front of the vehicle or rearward.  Additional securement devices or systems shall secure the wheelchair or mobility aid facing forward or rearward.

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  At least one securement device or system required by paragraph (a) of this section shall secure the wheelchair or mobility aid facing toward the front of the vehicle.  Additional securement devices or systems shall secure the wheelchair or mobility aid facing forward or rearward.

T403.3 Design Force.  Front and rear facing wheelchair securement systems shall comply with T403.2.1 or T403.2.2, as applicable.   Introductory section
T403.3.1 Large Vehicles.  On vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 13,608 kg (30,000 pounds) or more, wheelchair securement systems shall restrain a force in the forward longitudinal direction of 8,800 N (2,000 pounds) minimum for each wheelchair. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(1) Design load.  Securement systems on vehicles with GVWRs of 30,000 pounds or above, and their attachments to such vehicles, shall restrain a force in the forward longitudinal direction of up to 2,000 pounds per securement leg or clamping mechanism and a minimum of 4,000 pounds for each mobility aid.

Reduces design force for large vehicles from 17,600 N (4,000 pounds) to 8,800 N (2,000 pounds) minimum.
Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(1) Design load.  Securement systems, and their attachments to vehicles, shall restrain a force in the forward longitudinal direction of up to 2,000 pounds (8,880 N) per securement leg or clamping mechanism and a minimum of 4,000 pounds (17,760 N) for each mobility aid.

T403.3.2 Small Vehicles.  On vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 13,608 kg (30,000 pounds), wheelchair securement systems shall restrain a force in the forward longitudinal direction of 22,000 N (5,000 pounds) minimum for each wheelchair. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(1) Design load.  …Securement systems on vehicles with GVWRs of up to 30,000 pounds, and their attachments to such vehicles, shall restrain a force in the forward longitudinal direction of up to 2,500 pounds per securement leg or clamping mechanism and a minimum of 5,000 pounds for each mobility aid.

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T403.4 Movement.  Front and rear facing wheelchair securement systems shall limit the movement of an occupied wheelchair so that no part of the wheelchair that is in contact with the vehicle floor when initially secured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions moves more than 51 mm (2 inches) in any direction under normal vehicle operating conditions. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(5) Movement.  When the wheelchair or mobility aid is secured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, the securement system shall limit the movement of an occupied wheelchair or mobility aid to no more than 2 inches in any direction under normal vehicle operating conditions.

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(5) Movement.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(5) above.]

T403.5 Rear Facing Wheelchair Securement Systems. Rear facing wheelchair securement systems shall comply with T403.5.   Introductory Section
T403.5.1 Forward Excursion Barrier. A forward excursion barrier shall be provided to prevent an occupied wheelchair from moving toward the front of the vehicle.  The barrier shall extend from the vehicle floor to a height of 610 mm (24 in) minimum for the full width of the wheelchair space.   Requires forward excursion barrier to be provided at rear facing wheelchair securement systems.
T403.5.2 Padded Head Rest.  A padded head rest complying with T403.5.2 shall be provided above the forward excursion barrier. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  …Where the wheelchair or mobility aid is secured facing the rear of the vehicle, a padded barrier shall be provided.

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(4) above.]

T403.5.2.1 Width.  The padded head rest shall be 255 mm (10 inches) wide minimum, and shall be centered on the wheelchair space. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  …The padded barrier shall extend … with a width of 18 inches, laterally centered immediately in back of the seated individual.

Modifies width of padded head rest from 355 mm (18 inches) to 255 mm (10 inches) wide minimum.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(4) above.]

T403.5.2.2 Height.  The lower edge of the padded head rest shall be 965 mm (38 inches) minimum and 1016 mm (40 inches) maximum above the vehicle floor.  The top edge of the padded head rest shall be 1420 mm (56 inches) minimum above the vehicle floor. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  The padded barrier shall extend from a height of 38 inches from the vehicle floor to a height of 56 inches from the vehicle floor …

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(4) Orientation.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(4) above.]

T403.5.2.3 Protrusion.  The plane of the face of the padded head rest shall protrude into the wheelchair space 230 mm (9 inches) minimum and 305 mm (12 inches) maximum measured from the plane of the forward excursion barrier.   Clarifies how far the padded headrest can protrude into the wheelchair space.
T403.6 Stowage.  When wheelchair securement systems are not in use, the systems shall not protrude into the wheelchair space except as provided in T403.5.2.3, and shall not interfere with passenger movement or pose a hazard.  Wheelchair securement systems shall be reasonably protected from vandalism, and shall be readily accessed when needed for use. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(6) Stowage.  When not being used for securement, or when the securement area can be used by standees, the securement system shall not interfere with passenger movement, shall not present any hazardous condition, shall be reasonably protected from vandalism, and shall be readily accessed when needed for use.

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§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(6) Stowage.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(6) above.]

T404 Seat Belts and Shoulder Belts.  Seat belts and shoulder belts provided for passengers who use wheelchairs shall comply with 49 CFR § 571.209.  Seat belts and shoulder belts shall not be used in place of wheelchair securement systems complying with T403 to secure wheelchairs to vehicles. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(7) Seat belt and shoulder harness.  … a passenger seat belt and shoulder harness, complying with all applicable provisions of 49 CFR part 571, shall also be provided for use by wheelchair or mobility aid users.  Such seat belts and shoulder harnesses shall not be used in lieu of a device which secures the wheelchair or mobility aid itself.

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Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(d) Securement devices

(7) Seat belt and shoulder harness.  [Same as §1192.23(d)(7) above.]

CHAPTER T5: CIRCULATION PATHS AND DOORWAYS ON BUSES, OVER-THE-ROAD BUSES, AND VANS    
T501 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T5 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.   Introductory section
T502 Circulation Paths    

T502.1 General.  Circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall comply with T502.

  Introductory section
T502.2 Clear Width.  The clear width of circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall be 865 mm (34 inches) minimum from the vehicle floor to a height 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the vehicle floor.  From a height 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the vehicle floor, the clear width of circulation paths shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum to the height specified in Table T502.
Table T502 Circulation Path Clear Width
Vehicle LengthMinimum Height Above 1015 mm (40 inches)
Vehicles 6.7 m (22 feet) or less 1420 mm (56 inches) above vehicle floor
Over-the-road buses 1650 mm (65 inches) above vehicle floor
Other vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) 1725 mm (68 inches) above vehicle floor
Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Specifies 865 mm (34 inches) minimum clear width for circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways.
§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a) General.  All vehicles covered by this subpart shall provide … sufficient clearances to permit a wheelchair or other mobility aid user to reach a securement location.

§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(f) For vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length, the minimum interior height along the path from the lift to the securement location shall be 68 inches.  For vehicles of 22 feet in length or less, the minimum interior height from lift to securement location shall be 56 inches.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(a)(1) General.  [Same as §1192.23(a) above.]

§1192.153 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(d) The overhead clearance between the top of the lift door opening and the sill shall be the maximum practicable but not less than 65 inches (1651 mm).

T502.3 Features on Circulation Paths.  Features on circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall be located so as to not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs.  Stanchions located directly behind the driver seat shall terminate at the surface of aisle facing seats where provided, or shall be turned away from the circulation path below the driver seat.  Where provided on vehicles, fare collection devices shall be located as close to the dashboard as possible. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a) Interior handrails and stanchions shall permit sufficient turning and maneuvering space for wheelchairs and other mobility aids to reach a securement location from the lift or ramp.  …

(e) For vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length with front-door lifts or ramps, vertical stanchions immediately behind the driver shall either terminate at the lower edge of the aisle-facing seats, if applicable, or be “dog-legged” so that the floor attachment does not impede or interfere with wheelchair footrests.  If the driver seat platform must be passed by a wheelchair or mobility aid user entering the vehicle, the platform, to the maximum extent practicable, shall not extend into the aisle or vestibule beyond the wheel housing.

§1192.33 Fare box.

Where provided, the farebox shall be located as far forward as practicable and shall not obstruct traffic in the vestibule, especially wheelchairs or mobility aids.

T503 Doorways     
T503.1 Doorways with Lifts or Ramps.  The vertical clearance at doorways with lifts or ramps shall be in accordance with Table T503.1 measured vertically from the top of the door opening to the vehicle floor, or to the surface of the lift or to the highest point of the ramp when deployed to the vehicle floor level.
Table T503.1 Vertical Clearance at Doorways with Lifts or Ramps
Vehicle LengthMinimum Vertical Clearance
Vehicles 6.7 m (22 feet) or less 1420 mm (56 inches)
Over-the-road buses 1650 mm (65 inches)
Other vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) 1725 mm (68 inches)
Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.25 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(c) Door height.  For vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length, the overhead clearance between the top of the door opening and the raised lift platform, or highest point of a ramp, shall be a minimum of 68 inches.  For vehicles of 22 feet in length or less, the overhead clearance between the top of the door opening and the raised lift platform, or highest point of a ramp, shall be a minimum of 56 inches.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.153 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(d) The overhead clearance between the top of the lift door opening and the sill shall be the maximum practicable but not less than 65 inches (1651 mm).

T503.2 Doorways with Level Entry Boarding.  Doorways with level entry boarding shall comply with T503.2.   Introductory section
T503.2.1 Clear Width.  Doorways shall provide a clear opening of 810 mm (32 inches) minimum.   Requires doorways of vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems to provide a clear opening of 810 mm (32 inches) minimum.
T503.2.2 Thresholds.  Thresholds at doorways shall be marked by a strip.  The strip shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the circulation path surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Clarifies that contrasting strip at thresholds must be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum.
§1192.25 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(b) Contrast.  All … thresholds … shall have a band of color(s) … which contrasts … either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

T503.3 Doorways on Over-the-Road Buses.  On over-the road buses, doorways with steps shall provide a clear opening 760 mm (30 inches) minimum from the lowest step tread to a height 1220 mm (48 inches) above the lowest step tread.  Where compliance is not structurally feasible, the clear opening shall be permitted to be 685 mm (27 inches).  The clear opening shall be permitted to taper to 457 mm (18 inches) minimum from a height 1220 mm (48 inches) above the lowest step tread to the top of the doorway.  Hinges and other door mechanisms shall be permitted to protrude 100 mm (4 inches) maximum into the clear opening. Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems Editorial
§1192.153 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(c) (1) Doors shall have a minimum clear width when open of 30 inches (760 mm), measured from the lowest step to a height of at least 48 inches (1220 mm), from which point they may taper to a minimum width of 18 inches (457 mm).  The clear width may be reduced by a maximum of 4 inches (100 mm) by protrusions of hinges or other operating mechanisms.

(2) Exception.  Where compliance with the door width requirement of paragraph (c)(1) of this section is not feasible, the minimum door width shall be 27 in (685 mm).

T504 Steps    
T504.1 General.  Steps shall comply with T504.   Introductory section
T504.2 Surfaces.  Step tread surfaces shall comply with T802.   See T802
T504.3 Visual Contrast.  The outer edge of step treads shall be marked by a strip.  The strip shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the step tread or circulation path surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Clarifies that contrasting strip at step tread edges must be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum.
§1192.25 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(b) Contrast.  All step edges … shall have a band of color(s) running the full width of the step … which contrasts from the step tread and riser, … either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.153 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(b) [Same as §1192.25(b) above.]

T505 Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds    
T505.1 General.  Handrails, stanchions, and handholds shall comply with T505 and T804.   Introductory section
T505.2 Doorways.  Handrails and stanchions at passenger doorways shall be configured so that passengers with disabilities can grasp the handrails and stanchions from outside the vehicle, and use the handrails and stanchions throughout the boarding and alighting process. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) Handrails and stanchions shall be provided in the entrance to the vehicle in a configuration which allows persons with disabilities to grasp such assists from outside the vehicle while starting to board, and to continue using such assists throughout the boarding … process.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a) [Same as §1192.29(b) above.]

T505.3 Fare Collection Devices.  Handrails at fare collection devices shall be configured so that passengers with disabilities can use the handrail for support when using the fare collection device. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial

§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) …Where on-board fare collection devices are used on vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length, a horizontal passenger assist shall be located across the front of the vehicle …  Passengers shall be able to lean against the assist for security while paying fares.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a) …Where on-board fare collection devices are used, a horizontal passenger assist shall be located between boarding passengers and the fare collection device… Passengers shall be able to lean against the assist for security while paying fares.

T505.4 Circulation Paths.  Handrails and stanchions along circulation paths shall be configured so that passengers with disabilities can use the handrails when moving through the vehicle. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(d) Handrails and stanchions shall be sufficient to permit … on-board circulation … by persons with disabilities.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) [Same as §1192.29(d) above.]

T505.5 Seats.  Handholds and stanchions on the backs of forward and rear facing seats shall be located directly adjacent to the aisle so that passengers with disabilities can use the handholds and handrails when moving from the aisles to the seats. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(d) Handrails and stanchions shall be sufficient to permit … seating and standing assistance  … by persons with disabilities.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) [Same as §1192.29(d) above.]

CHAPTER T7: COMMUNICATION FEATURES    
T701 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T7 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.   Introductory section
T702 Signs    
T702.1 General.  Characters on signs shall comply with T702.   Introductory section
T702.2 Character Proportions.  Characters shall be selected from fonts where the width of the uppercase letter “O” is 55 percent minimum and 110 percent maximum of the height of the uppercase letter “I”. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Revises technical requirements for sign characters to be consistent with accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities.

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(c) Characters on signs … shall have a width-to-height ratio between 3:5 and 1:1 …

§1192.39 Destination and route signs.

(b) Characters on signs … shall have a width-to-height ratio between 3:5 and 1:1 …

T702.3 Character Height.  Character height shall comply with Table T702.3.  Character height shall be based on the uppercase letter “I”.
Table T702.3 Character Height
SignMinimum Character Height
Exterior route or destination signs on boarding side of vehicle 51 mm
(2 inches)
Exterior route or destination signs on front of vehicle 100 mm
(4 inches)
Interior signs designating wheelchair  spaces or priority seats, where baseline of character is 1015 mm (40 inches) to 1780 mm (70 inches) above the vehicle floor 16 m
(⅝ inch)
Interior signs designating wheelchair spaces, priority seats, stop announcements, or stop requests where baseline of character is more than 1780 mm (70 inches) above the vehicle floor 51 mm
(2 inches)
Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(c) Characters on signs … shall have … a minimum character height (using an upper case “X”) of ⅝ inch …

§1192.39 Destination and route signs.

(b) Characters on signs … shall have … a minimum character height (using an upper case “X”) of 1 inch for signs on the boarding side and a minimum character height of 2 inches for front “headsigns” …

Revises technical requirements for sign characters to be consistent with accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities.
T702.4 Stroke Thickness.  Stroke thickness of the uppercase letter “I” shall be 10 percent minimum and 30 percent maximum of the height of the character. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(c) Characters on signs … shall have … a stroke width-to-height ratio between 1:5 and 1:10 …

§1192.39 Destination and route signs.

(b) Characters on signs … shall have … a stroke width-to-height ratio between 1:5 and 1:10 …

Revises technical requirements for sign characters to be consistent with accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities.
T702.5 Character Spacing.  Character spacing shall be measured between the two closest points of adjacent characters, excluding word spaces.  Spacing between individual characters shall be 10 percent minimum and 35 percent maximum of character height. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(c) Characters on signs … shall have … “wide” spacing (generally, the space between letters shall be 1/16 the height of upper case letters) …

§1192.39 Destination and route signs.

(b) Characters on signs … shall have … “wide” spacing (generally, the space between letters shall be 1/16 the height of upper case letters) …

Revises technical requirements for sign characters to be consistent with accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities.
T702.6 Line Spacing.  Spacing between the baselines of separate lines of characters within a message shall be 135 percent minimum and 170 percent maximum of the character height.   Revises technical requirements for sign characters to be consistent with accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities.
T702.7 Contrast.  Characters shall contrast with their background with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters on a light background. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.27 Priority seating signs.

(c) Characters on signs … shall contrast with the background either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

§1192.39 Destination and route signs.

(b) Characters on signs … shall contrast with the background, either dark-on-light or light-on-dark.

Editorial
T703  International Symbol of Accessibility.  The International Symbol of Accessibility shall comply with Figure T703.  The symbol shall have a background field height of 100 mm (4 inches) minimum.  The symbol and its background shall have a non-glare finish.  The symbol shall contrast with its background with either a light symbol on a dark background or a dark symbol on a light background.   Provides figure for the International Symbol of Accessibility, and specifies background field, finish, and contrast.
T704 Automated Stop and Route Announcements    
T704.1 General.  Automated stop and route announcements shall comply with T704, and shall use recorded or digitized human speech.   Requires automated stop and route announcements to use recorded or digitized human speech.
T704.2 Automated Stop Announcements.  Automated stop announcements shall be audible and visible within the vehicle.  Visible announcements shall be a sign complying with T702 located at the front of the vehicle.  Where rear facing wheelchair securement systems are provided, an additional sign complying with T702 shall be located within view of passengers facing the rear of the vehicle.   Requires automated stop announcements to be audible and visible within the vehicle.
T704.3 Automated Route Announcements.  Automated route announcements shall be audible at boarding and alighting areas.   Requires automated route announcements to be audible at boarding and alighting areas.
T705 Stop Request Systems    
T705.1 General.  Stop request systems shall provide audible and visible indicators when passengers request a vehicle to stop at designated stops on the vehicle’s assigned route.  Audible indicators shall be verbal or non-verbal signals, and shall sound only once for each stop.  Visible indicators shall be a light or sign complying with T702 at the front of the vehicle, and shall extinguish when the vehicle door opens at a stop. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.37 Stop request.

(a) …Such a system shall provide auditory and visual indications that the request has been made.

Clarifies technical requirements for audible and visible indicators for stop request systems.
T705.2 Operation.  Stop request systems shall be operable at each wheelchair space and at priority seats for passengers with disabilities.  Operable parts shall comply with T805.  At wheelchair spaces, operable parts shall be located on a side wall or partition 610 mm (24 inches) minimum and 915 mm (36 inches) maximum from the side of the wheelchair space facing the back of a wheelchair secured in the wheelchair space. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems

§1192.37 Stop request.

(a) … vehicles … shall provide controls adjacent to the securement location for requesting stops …

Clarifies location of operable parts for stop request systems.
CHAPTER T8: OTHER FEATURES    
T801 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T8 shall apply where required by Chapter T2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.   Introductory section
T802 Surfaces   Introductory section
T802.1 General.  Surfaces shall comply with T802.  

Surfaces on circulation paths (T203.4.1), lift platforms (T302.5.1), ramps and bridgeplates (T303.5), wheelchair spaces (T402.2), and step treads (T504.2) are required to comply with T802.

T802.2 Slip Resistant.  Surfaces shall be slip resistant. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(6) Platform surface.  The platform surface … shall be slip resistant.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(2) Ramp surface.  The ramp surface shall be … slip resistant …

§1192.25 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(a) Slip resistance.  All aisles, steps, floor areas where people walk and floors in securement locations shall have slip-resistant surfaces.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(6) Platform surface.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(6) above.]

§1192.153 Doors, steps and thresholds.

(a) Floor surfaces on aisles, step treads and areas where wheelchair and mobility aid users are to be accommodated shall be slip-resistant.

T802.3 Openings.  Openings in surfaces shall not allow the passage of a sphere more than 16 mm (⅝ inch) diameter.  Elongated openings shall be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to dominant direction of travel.  Lift platforms that are folded and stowed manually, and ramps and bridgeplates that are deployed manually shall be permitted to have a cut-out in the surface 38 mm (1½ inches) maximum by 115 mm (4½ inches) maximum for the operator to grasp the surface. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial for lift platforms.

Applies technical requirements for openings to ramps and bridgeplates.

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(7) Platform gaps.  Any openings between the platform surface and the raised barriers shall not exceed ⅝ inch in width…  Platforms on semi-automatic lifts may have a hand hold not exceeding 1½ inches by 4½ inches located between the edge barriers.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(7) Platform gaps.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(7) above.]

T802.4 Protrusions.  Protrusions on surfaces shall be permitted to be 6.4 mm (¼ inch) high maximum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(6) Platform surface.  The platform surface shall be free of any protrusions over ¼ inch high …

(c) Vehicle ramp

(2) Ramp surface.  The ramp surface … shall not have protrusions from the surface greater than ¼ inch) high …

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(6) Platform surface.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(6) above.]

(c) Vehicle ramp

(2) Ramp surface.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(2) above.]

T802.5 Surface Discontinuities.  Surface discontinuities shall be 6.4 mm (¼ inch) high maximum without edge treatment and 13 mm (½ inch) high maximum with beveled edge treatment.  The bevel shall have a slope not steeper than 1:2 (50 percent) applied across the entire surface discontinuity. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Requires bevel across the entire surface discontinuity if more than 6.4 mm (¼ inch) high maximum.
§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(8) Platform entrance ramp.  … the transition from roadway or sidewalk to ramp may be vertical without edge treatment up to ¼ inch.  Thresholds between ¼ inch and ½ inch high shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1:2.

(c) Vehicle ramp

(3) Ramp threshold. The transition from roadway or sidewalk and the transition from vehicle floor to the ramp may be vertical without edge treatment up to ¼ inch.  Changes in level between ¼ inch and ½ inch shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1:2.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(8) Platform entrance ramp.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(8) above.]

(c) Vehicle ramp

(3) Ramp threshold.  [Same as §1192.23(c)(3) above.]

T803 Doorway Lighting.  Lighting at passenger doorways shall comply with Table T803.  Lighting shall not shine directly in the eyes of passengers when entering and exiting doorways.
Table T803 Areas Illuminated and Illuminance Levels
VehiclesAreas IlluminatedIlluminance Levels
Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Lift Platforms When lift is raised or lowered between the vehicle floor and the boarding and alighting area or roadway, 55 lux (5 foot-candles) illuminance on all portions of the lift platform surface throughout the lift cycle

When lift is at the boarding and alighting area or roadway level, 11 lux (1 foot-candle) of illuminance on the surface of the threshold ramp

Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Ramps

Bridgeplates

When ramp or bridgeplate is deployed to the boarding or alighting area or roadway, 22 lux (2 foot-candles) of illuminance on all portions of the ramp or bridgeplate surface
Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Steps at doorways adjacent to the driver When doors are open, 22 lux (2 foot-candles) of illuminance on step tread surfaces
Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Steps at doorways not adjacent to the driver At all times, 22 lux (2 foot-candles) of illuminance on step tread surfaces
Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Boarding and alighting areas adjacent to doorways When doors are open, 11 lux (1 foot-candle) of illuminance measured at points on boarding and alighting area surfaces 915 mm (36 inches) perpendicular from the outer edge of the bottom step tread or the doorway threshold
Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Harmonizes technical requirements for lighting on lift platforms with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) (49 CFR 571.404, S4.1.5).
§1192.31 Lighting.

(a) Any stepwell or doorway immediately adjacent to the driver shall have, when the door is open, at least 2 foot-candles of illumination measured on the step tread or lift platform.

(b) Other stepwells and doorways, including doorways in which lifts or ramps are installed, shall have, at all times, at least 2 foot-candles of illumination measured on the step tread, or lift or ramp, when deployed at the vehicle floor level.

(c) The vehicle doorways, including doorways in which lifts or ramps are installed, shall have outside light(s) which, when the door is open, provide at least 1 foot-candle of illumination on the street surface for a distance of 3 feet perpendicular to the bottom step tread or lift outer edge.  Such light(s) shall be shielded to protect the eyes of entering and exiting passengers.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems
§1192.157 Lighting.

(a) Any stepwell or doorway immediately adjacent to the driver shall have, when the door is open, at least 2 foot-candles of illumination measured on the step tread.

(b) The vehicle doorway shall have outside light(s) which, when the door is open, provide at least 1 foot-candle of illumination on the pathway to the door for a distance of 3 feet (915 mm) to the bottom step tread or lift outer edge.  Such light(s) shall be shielded to protect the eyes of entering and exiting passengers.

T804 Additional Requirements for Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds    
T804.1 General.  Handrails, stanchions, and handholds shall comply with T804.   Introductory section
T804.2 Edges.  Edges shall be rounded. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Simplifies technical requirement for edges.

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  The handrail shall … have eased edges with corner radii of not less than ⅛ inch.

§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) Handrails shall … have eased edges with corner radii of not less than ⅛ inch.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a)  [Same as §1192.29(b) above.]

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(13) above.]

T804.3 Cross Section.  Gripping surfaces shall have a cross section complying with T804.3.1 or T804.3.2.   Introductory section
T804.3.1 Circular Cross Section.  Gripping surfaces with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of 32 mm (1¼ inches) minimum and 51 mm (2 inches) maximum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Revises technical requirements for cross section to be consistent with accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities.

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  …The handrail shall have a cross-sectional diameter between 1¼ inches and 1½ inches …

§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) …Handrails shall have a cross-sectional diameter between 1¼ inches and 1½ inches …

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a)  [Same as §1192.29(b) above.]

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(13) above.]

T804.3.2 Non-Circular Cross Section.  Gripping surfaces with a non-circular cross section shall have a perimeter dimension of 100 mm (4 inches) minimum and 160 mm (6¼ inches) maximum, and a cross section dimension of 57 mm (2¼ inches) maximum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Revises technical requirements for cross section to be consistent with accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities.

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift.  –

(13) Handrails.  …The handrail … shall provide an equivalent grasping surface …

§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) …Handrails … shall provide an equivalent grasping surface …

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a)  [Same as §1192.29(b) above.]

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(13) above.]

T804.4 Clearance.  Clearance between gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces shall be 38 mm (1½ inches) minimum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial

§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift.  –

(13) Handrails.  …Handrails shall be placed to provide a minimum 1½ inches knuckle clearance from the nearest adjacent surface.

§1192.29 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(b) …Handrails shall be placed to provide a minimum 1½ inches knuckle clearance from the nearest adjacent surface.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.155 Interior circulation, handrails and stanchions.

(a)  [Same as §1192.29(b) above.]

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(13) above.]

T804.5 Structural Strength.  Handrails on lift platform surfaces shall be capable of withstanding a force of 445 N (100 pounds) applied at any point on the handrail without permanent deformation of the handrail or supporting structure. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.23 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  …The handrails shall be capable of withstanding a force of 100 pounds concentrated at any point on the handrail without permanent deformation of the rail or its supporting structure.

Subpart G – Over-the-Road Buses and Systems

§1192.159 Mobility aid accessibility.

(b) Vehicle lift

(13) Handrails.  [Same as §1192.23(b)(13) above.]

T805 Operable Parts   Introductory section

T805.1 General.  Operable parts shall comply with T805.

 

Operable parts on stop request systems (T706.2) and fare collection devices (T806) are required to comply with T805.

T805.2 Height.  Operable parts shall be located 620 mm (24 inches) minimum and 1220 mm (48 inches) maximum above the vehicle floor. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Modifies technical requirements for height from 375 mm (15 inches) to 620 mm (24 inches) minimum above the vehicle floor.
§1192.37 Stop request.

(b) Controls … shall be mounted no higher than 48 inches and no lower than 15 inches above the floor …

T805.3 Operation.  Operable parts shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.  The force required to activate operable parts shall be 22.2 N (5 pounds) maximum. Subpart B – Buses, Vans and Systems Editorial
§1192.37 Stop request.

(b) Controls … shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.  The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 lbf (22.2 N).

T806 Fare Collection Devices.  Operable parts of fare collection devices shall comply with T805.  The operable parts shall be located so that a wheelchair or mobility aid can approach within 255 mm (10 inches) maximum.   Requires fare collection devices to comply with technical requirements for operable parts.