The Need for Passenger Vessel Accessibility Guidelines

Private entities, and State and local governments covered by the ADA must ensure that the facilities they build or alter are accessible to people with disabilities.  The Board’s guidelines specify the minimum level of accessibility in new construction and alteration projects and serve as the basis for enforceable standards maintained by other agencies. Currently, the Board’s guidelines focus on facilities provided on landside sites.  Passenger vessels are required to be accessible under the ADA, but no specific guidelines are currently available to inform the public about how to make them accessible to people with disabilities.  The Board’s draft guidelines are intended to provide a better understanding of what accessibility requirements would apply to passenger vessels.

Passenger Vessel Access Advisory Committee

To assist in this rulemaking effort, the Board created a 21-member advisory committee in 1998 to develop recommendations for passenger vessel accessibility guidelines.  The Passenger Vessel Access Advisory Committee (PVAAC) was made up of disability organizations, industry trade groups, State and local government agencies, and passenger vessel operators.  The committee held nine meetings between September 1998 and September 2000.  The committee submitted its final report “Recommendations for Accessibility Guidelines for Passenger Vessels” (http://www.access-board.gov/pvaac/commrept/index.htm) to the Board in December 2000.

Board’s Draft Passenger Vessel Guidelines

An ad hoc committee of Board members reviewed the PVAAC’s report in depth and prepared draft guidelines based on the PVAAC report.  The Board’s draft guidelines depart from the PVAAC’s report in several areas which are summarized in the discussion below.  Because of these differences, the Board is making an advance draft of the guidelines available for comment by the public.  The Board also seeks information and feedback, including usability and cost data.  Instructions on providing comment in writing or at a hearing to be held on November 9, 2004 are provided in a notice the Board published on the release of the draft guidelines.

Relationship of PVAAC Report and Board’s Draft Guidelines to Revised ADAAG

The Board initially issued ADAAG on July 26, 1991; and recently issued a revised ADAGG (http://www.access-board.gov/ada-aba.htm) on July 23, 2004.  The revised ADAAG is based on a report submitted by another advisory committee in 1996 titled “Recommendations for a New ADAAG.”  When it was originally convened, the PVAAC used the “Recommendations for a New ADAAG” as the starting point for its report, and then modified the provisions as appropriate for passenger vessels.  On November 16, 1999, the Board issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to revise ADAAG and the PVAAC also considered that document prior to issuing its final report in December 2000.  Due to time constraints, not every provision in the “Recommendations for a New ADAAG” or the NPRM to revise ADAAG was considered by the PVAAC.  The Board’s draft guidelines for passenger vessels are based on the PVAAC’s final report as well as the revised ADAAG which was issued as a final rule on July 23, 2004 (Revised ADAAG).

Provisions in Revised ADAAG Not Included in Board’s Draft Passenger Vessel Guidelines

Although the revised ADAAG served as the basis for the Board’s draft guidelines, provisions in the revised ADAAG that address features not currently provided on passenger vessels are not included in the Board’s draft guidelines.  Provisions in the revised ADAAG that are not included in the Board’s draft guidelines include:

• Press Boxes
• Tiered Dining Areas in Sports Facilities
• Parking Spaces
• Passenger Loading Zones and Bus Stops
• Transportation Facilities
• Assembly Area Box, Team, and Player Seating
• Rehabilitation, Psychiatric, Detoxification, and Long Term Care Facilities
• Self-Service Storage Facilities
• Judicial and Correctional Facilities
• Residential Facilities
• Animal Containment Areas
• Amusement Rides
• Recreational Boating Facilities, and
• Golf Facilities
   

The draft guidelines are formatted similar to ADAAG, but some renumbering of sections was necessary.  To distinguish sections in the vessel guidelines from sections in ADAAG, the letter “V” is placed at the beginning of each section.  Only two figures (which are not in ADAAG) have been included in this draft.  In the proposed rule, these figures (as well as others incorporated from ADAAG) will be placed within the text of the guidelines along with appropriate advisory notes.  The following discussion does not address every provision in the draft or every recommendation made by PVAAC.  The full text of the Board’s draft guidelines follows the discussion.

• Chapter 1: Application and Administration
• Chapter 2: Scoping Requirements
• Chapter 3: Building Blocks
• Chapter 4: Accessible Routes, Accessible Means of Escape, and Accessible Passenger Boarding Systems
• Chapter 5: General Passenger Vessel Elements
• Chapter 6: Plumbing Elements and Facilities
• Chapter 7: Communication Elements
• Chapter 8: Special Rooms, Spaces, and Elements
• Chapter 9: Built-In Elements
• Chapter 10: Recreation Facilities and Play Areas

Chapter 1: Application and Administration

This chapter provides general principles that recognize the purpose of the draft guidelines (V101), provisions for adults and children (V102), equivalent facilitation (V103), conventions (V104), referenced standards (V105), and definitions (V106).

V104 Conventions

Section V104.1 notes that all dimensions not stated as a maximum or minimum are absolute and that all dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances (V104.1.1), except where the requirement is stated as a range with specific Aminimum@ and Amaximum@ end points.  Conventional industry tolerances recognized by this provision include those for field conditions and those that may be a necessary consequence of a particular manufacturing process, but not design.  For example, acrylic molded plumbing fixtures, such as shower stalls, often have a slight draft or taper so that they can be drawn from their molds.  This slight taper does not adversely affect accessibility and is a necessary consequence of this particular manufacturing process. 

Because vessels are subject to six types of motion (rolling, pitching, swaying, etc.), section V104.1.2 was added and provides that all slopes are measured when the passenger vessel is in a static condition with design trim and heel.  Trim is the difference between the draft of a vessel at the bow and stern; heel is the side to side difference.  The draft guidelines use provisions similar to ADAAG for calculating percentages (V104.2) and clarifying that figures are provided for informational purposes only, unless specifically stated otherwise (V104.3).

Chapter 2: Scoping Requirements

This chapter provides scoping criteria on passenger vessels for facilities, spaces, and elements required to be accessible in new construction and alterations.

V201.1 Scope

This section applies the passenger vessel accessibility guidelines to all passenger areas of newly designed and constructed passenger vessels permitted to carry more than 150 passengers or more than 49 overnight passengers.  The Board’s draft guidelines would also apply the technical provisions to altered portions of existing passenger vessels.  The draft guidelines would only apply to passenger areas.  For passenger vessels which carry 150 or fewer passengers or 49 or fewer overnight passengers, the Board is publishing a separate notice to solicit comment on how to address access on smaller passenger vessels. 

With respect to foreign-flag cruise ships, the Federal courts of appeal are in conflict as to the application of the ADA.  The United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit has held that a foreign-flag ship sailing in United States waters is not considered “extraterritorial” and therefore the Act applies.  See Stevens v. Premier Cruises, Inc., 215 F. 3d 1237, (11^th Cir. 2000).  Citing a lack of Congressional intent, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit held directly opposite in finding that the ADA does not apply to foreign-flagged cruise ships.  See Spector v. Norwegian Cruise Line Ltd., 356 F. 3d 641, (5^th Cir. 2004).  The Board anticipates that the issue of the application of the ADA to foreign-flagged vessels will ultimately be resolved by the courts.

The advisory committee applied its recommendations to passenger vessels which are subject to U.S. Coast Guard regulations found at 46 CFR Subchapters H or K, and smaller passenger vessels subject to Subchapters C or T.  Determining which Subchapter applies to a passenger vessel is based on the number of passengers a vessel is permitted to carry and the volume tonnage of a vessel.  Because determining the tonnage of a passenger vessel is a complicated process and because many large foreign-flagged passenger vessels are not subject to the Subchapters, the Board’s draft guidelines uses passenger numbers to determine coverage.  The numbers were derived from Subchapter K and are used to distinguish Subchapter K passenger vessels from (generally smaller) Subchapter T passenger vessels.  It is possible for some Subchapter H passenger vessels to have fewer than these passenger numbers. 

V201.4 Passenger Amenities

This section specifies that at least one of each type of element, space, and facility used by passengers shall be on an entry deck or be connected by an onboard accessible route to an entry deck.  An entry deck is defined in V106.5 as a deck which contains passenger entry and departure points which allow passengers to embark or disembark a vessel from fixed piers, floating piers, or the land in non-emergency conditions.  Section V201.4 seeks to ensure that amenities, provided to passengers on decks not connected to a means of vertical access, are available to passengers with disabilities who cannot climb stairs.  In addition to V201.4, sections V221.2.3.2, V221.2.4, and V224.6 require 100 percent of certain elements and spaces to be located on decks complying with V201.4.

V202.2 Additions

This section requires that each addition on existing passenger vessels conform to the applicable new construction requirements in chapter 2.  Also, each addition that affects or could affect the usability of an area containing a primary function must also comply with V202.4.  For example, if a passenger vessel is lengthened by adding a new mid-section, the new mid-section must conform to the new construction requirements.  If the new mid-section is a primary function area, the path of travel requirements in V202.4 may apply to the existing portions of the vessel.

V202.3 Alterations

This section requires that each alteration to elements and spaces in existing passenger vessels comply with the applicable provisions in chapter 2.  This section does not require that alterations be performed, but when an alteration to a passenger vessel is conducted, this section requires accessibility improvements to be made to the maximum extent feasible based on the degree of alteration performed.  For example, if nonconforming carpet is replaced in a space which is required to be accessible because the carpet is worn out, conforming carpet would be required to be installed as part of this carpet replacement project.  The term Aalteration@ is defined in V106.5 and may carry a broader meaning than how it is used in the marine industry.  Therefore, some actions classified as repair or maintenance in the marine industry may be considered alterations under these guidelines, and therefore trigger the requirements of V202.3 and (if the alteration was done within a primary function area) V202.4.

Section V202.3 includes a third exception which also addresses when some alterations may be technically infeasible.  In alterations, where compliance with applicable provisions is technically infeasible, the exception requires accessibility to the maximum extent feasible. 

V202.4 Alterations Affecting Primary Function Areas

This section specifies the requirements that apply when alterations are performed in a primary function area.  These requirements are in addition to those required by V202.3.  In general, when alterations are performed in a primary function area, additional accessibility improvements are required to the path of travel to the altered area, and rest rooms, public telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered primary function area.  The Department of Justice (DOJ) has established specific criteria for this type of alteration in 28 CFR 36.403.  Because criteria for this type of alteration are determined by DOJ, the PVAAC recommendations were not included.

V204 Protruding Objects

This section requires that all circulation paths (not just accessible routes) used by passengers comply with the protruding object requirements in V307.  Section V307 establishes minimum vertical clearances along circulation paths and maximum projections into such paths.

Consistent with ADAAG, the Board’s draft guidelines apply V307 to all circulation paths in rooms and spaces which are required to be accessible.  This is primarily because persons with vision impairments will not know which paths have protruding objects and which do not, even if signage alerts other users.  Section V307 does not apply to circulation paths in spaces which are not required to be accessible (for example, guest rooms which are not required to comply with V806.2 and V806.3).

V206 Onboard Accessible Routes

This section specifies the required number of onboard accessible routes (V206.2) and their location (V206.3) and addresses the scoping of elements that are components of accessible routes: vessel entry and departure points (V206.4), doors (V206.5), elevators (V206.6), platform lifts (V206.7), and security barriers (V206.8). 

The term “onboard” was added to the phrase “accessible routes” to make it clear that accessible routes required by V206 must be provided onboard passenger vessels.  For example, a new ferry with two passenger decks could not use a means of vertical access at a landside facility to connect its two passenger decks.  The new ferry must have the accessible connection onboard the vessel.  However, in alterations to existing vessels, such an access solution may be all that is feasible where it is technically infeasible to install vertical access in an existing vessel (see V202.3).

V206.2 Accessible Routes

Section V206.2.1 specifies deck-to-deck and deck-to-mezzanine onboard accessible routes, and requires that at least one accessible route connect each passenger deck and mezzanine in multi-deck passenger vessels.  This section also requires each entry deck to be connected in passenger vessels with multiple entry decks (see V106.5 for entry deck definition).  Five exceptions are included which modify this vertical access requirement.  However, in the first three, the exceptions cannot be used to eliminate the requirement to connect entry decks. 

Section 303 of Title III of the ADA addresses “New Construction and Alterations in Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities”.  Paragraph (b) provides that elevators are not required in facilities that are less than three stories or have less than 3,000 square feet per story unless the building is a shopping center, a shopping mall, or the professional office of a health care provider or unless the Attorney General determines that a particular category of such facilities requires the installation of elevators based on the usage of such facilities.  Because it is not uncommon for passengers to board on one level and disembark on another, the Department of Justice has indicated its intention toseek comment from the public on whether to include passenger vessels covered by title III of the ADA as a type of public accommodation which requires the installation of elevators for purposes of embarking and disembarking.  Accordingly, in these draft guidelines, the first three exceptions in V206.2.1 note that the entry decks on passenger vessels are required to be on an accessible route.  The Board’s draft guidelines seek to ensure that where passengers embark a vessel on one deck and disembark from another deck, vertical access between entry decks is provided.

Although the exceptions eliminate the requirement in V206.2.1 for vertical access between certain decks, the exceptions do not eliminate the requirements for access on those decks.  Therefore, if a public toilet room is provided on a deck not required to be connected to an accessible route, the toilet room must still be accessible (where required by V213), and it must be connected by an accessible route to other accessible elements and spaces on that deck (where required by V206.2.2).

In addition, the five exceptions do not modify the “one of each type” requirement in V201.4.  This means that in passenger vessels which are not required to have vertical access to some or all passenger decks, at least one of each type of passenger facility, space, and element provided on unconnected decks must be provided on an entry deck or on a deck connected by an accessible route to an entry deck.

Exception 1

This exception specifies that on passenger vessels that have fewer than three decks or that have less than 3,000 square feet per deck, an accessible route shall not be required to connect passenger decks that are not entry decks.

Exception 2

This exception specifies that decks, other than entry decks, that have less than 300 square feet are not required to be connected to an onboard accessible route.  When PVAAC developed its recommended vertical access exceptions, the committee started with a simplified exception which paralleled the vertical access exception contained in title III of the ADA.  Section 303(b) of the ADA does not require the installation of an elevator for facilities that are less than three stories or have less than 3,000 square feet per story unless the building is a shopping center, a shopping mall, or the professional office of a health care provider or unless the Attorney General determines that a particular category of such facilities requires the installation of elevators based on the usage of such facilities.  From the simplified exception, the committee determined that two additional vertical access exceptions were needed, one for high speed ferries with only two passenger decks and another for decks less than 300 square feet in size.  PVAAC recommended that both public and private entities be eligible to use these last two exceptions.

The Board’s draft guidelines include the first exception from the PVAAC report, but apply the exception to both private and public entities.  However, the exception was modified to indicate that it applies only to the connection of decks which are not entry decks.  This exception would include passenger decks without enclosed spaces (for example, a sun deck) in determining if a vessel had less than three decks.  As many passenger vessels subject to these guidelines have more than two decks, aside from the entry deck requirement, such vessels could only use exception 1 if all the passenger decks were less than 3,000 square feet.  A mezzanine is not a deck for purposes of determining eligibility for using the exception.  Because exception 1 may be used by public entities, the high speed ferry exception PVAAC provided was not needed.

The second exception that addresses non-entry decks which are less than 300 square feet was created for very small decks on some passenger vessels where providing access would use up most of the available deck area.  For example, the top of an elevator penthouse or deck cabin may be used as a sunning deck.

Exception 3

This exception specifies that where vehicle lanes for trucks, buses, or other high clearance vehicles divide a higher deck, other than entry decks, into two separate segments and no horizontal circulation is provided between these two segments, only one segment of the divided deck is required to be connected by an accessible route.

Although not addressed by PVAAC, a number of ferries have decks split in half by high clearance vehicle lanes located on lower decks.  Some of these split decks contain parking for vehicles, such as the Tacoma ferry operated by Washington State Ferries.  Others, such as the Machigonne II operated by Casco Bay Lines and the Margaret Chase Smith operated by the Maine State Ferry Service, contain small passenger seating areas on these split decks.  Under V206.2, absent an exception, a newly constructed vessel using this design would be required to have vertical access connecting each side of the split deck with all other accessible passenger decks.  In the cases identified, the services available on one side were identical on the other side and because many of these ferries are quite small, the requirement for two means of vertical access could be burdensome.  Therefore, this exception has been included in the Board’s draft guidelines.  However, as mentioned above, if the passenger services offered on each side are not identical, the “one of each type” requirement in V201.4 would still need to be satisfied.

Exception 4

This exception specifies that decks below the bulkhead deck are not required to be connected to an accessible route.  The bulkhead deck is the uppermost deck to which watertight bulkheads and the watertight shell extend.  Although vertical access may be provided into the area of the watertight shell, the watertight bulkheads which divide the shell into watertight zones would eliminate or severely restrict horizontal movement between zones.  This exception is proposed in these draft guidelines because of the complications in providing horizontal access between watertight zones, and the high likelihood that the passenger spaces tend to be small or similar to those provided elsewhere.

Exception 5

This exception specifies that where exceptions for alterations to qualified historic passenger vessels are permitted by V202.5, an accessible route shall not be required between decks.  This exception is similar to an exception in ADAAG 206.2.3.

V206.3 Location

This section addresses the location of accessible routes required by V206.2.  As recommended by PVAAC, it also requires onboard accessible routes connecting any two points within one or more accessible spaces to not be more than 300 feet longer than the shortest general circulation path connecting the same two points.  This distance is roughly twice the maximum distance between fire bulkheads for main vertical fire zones which are required by the Coast Guard on Subchapter H and K passenger vessels.

V206.4 Entry and Departure Points

This section specifies that each entry and departure point used by passengers shall be on an onboard accessible route.  PVAAC recommended a performance requirement that “in all ports, an accessible route be provided to at least one vessel entry and departure point used by passengers”.  An entry or departure point is the place on a vessel at which a passenger embarks or disembarks the vessel, such as going through an opening in a lifeline, a door in the side of the vessel, or a gate in the bulwark.  Most vessels have a multitude of entry points, generally on both sides of the vessel and some on different decks.  Typically, only one is used by passengers at each site a vessel stops.  The same point is generally used for both embarking and disembarking passengers.  Different entry points may be used at different vessel stops. 

The Board’s draft guidelines do not use a performance standard because vessel uses and areas of operation may change over the life of the vessel.  The draft guidelines seek to ensure that persons with disabilities will be able to depart a vessel not just at the current landside facilities a new vessel may stop at but at landside facilities the vessel may stop at in the future.  Although an onboard accessible route must connect each entry and departure point, this section does not address the connection to the landside facility nor does it require each entry and departure point to be connected to a landside facility (see V208 for passenger boarding system scoping).

V206.6 Elevators

This section requires all passenger elevators to comply with the technical provisions for elevators and determines when a limited-use/limited-application (LULA) elevator may be used as a component in an accessible route.  The Board’s draft guidelines simplify the exceptions regarding use of LULA elevators recommended by PVAAC and allows vessels less than 10,000 ITC tons to use LULA elevators.  ITC tons refers to a measurement system used in the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships. 

V207 Accessible Means of Escape

This section provides scoping criteria that determines how many accessible means of escape (V207.2) are required from an accessible passenger space.  It also determines when an elevator must be provided for accessible escape purposes from a deck (V207.3).  Because ADAAG references the International Building Code (IBC) for most of its means of egress requirements, the draft guidelines generally combines the recommendations of PVAAC (see chapter 3 of its report) and the access principles present in IBC (2000) 1003.2.13.

V207.3 Elevators

This section requires at least one elevator complying with V206.6 and V411.3 on certain multi-deck vessels to serve each passenger deck as an accessible means of escape.  The provision allows LULA elevators to be used as part of an accessible means of escape, where permitted by V206.6.

During emergencies, the elevator required by V207.3 would be crew operated and would be used to assist the movement of persons with disabilities between decks.  PVAAC had expressed concern that the Coast Guard would not allow such elevator usage in an emergency.  In response to this concern, the Coast Guard has communicated to the Board that it would allow crew members to operate elevators as a means of escape in an emergency to transport persons with disabilities only.  Also, the Marine Safety Committee Circular 846 of the International Maritime Organization provides that in emergencies, lifts (elevators) may be used as an additional means of escape provided that they are controlled by the assigned member of the crew and are supplied from the ship=s emergency source of power. 

V208 Passenger Vessel Boarding

This section requires at least one passenger boarding system to be provided that complies with V412 and connects an entry deck to fixed piers, floating piers, or land.  An exception is included which provides that where a boarding system complying with V412 is on a pier, a vessel carried boarding system is not required.

The Board’s draft guidelines require that for new passenger vessels, the vessel itself must be accessible and the vessel must also have at least one accessible connection to landside facilities when embarking and disembarking passengers.  The components which make up the accessible connection (see V412) may either be carried by the vessel (such as a stage or gangway on a riverboat) or be provided at the landside facilities from which the vessel boards passengers.

When the Board publishes the proposed rule, the rule will also include proposed amendments to ADAAG.  These amendments will include landside requirements which apply to getting passengers on and off passenger vessels at new and altered landside facilities that serve passenger vessels.  The Board intends to include a similar exception in the landside requirements which would allow the boarding system to be carried on the vessel instead of provided on the land.

As established in regulations issued by the Department of Transportation and the Department of Justice, both the vessel operator and the pier operator are subject to the ADA’s requirement that they not discriminate against individuals with disabilities in the operation of their programs.  Therefore, vessel operators and pier operators may find it beneficial to work together to negotiate an allocation of responsibility for compliance with V208 and for operating procedures that ensure that both entities meet their obligation to provide access to people with disabilities in the vessel boarding process.

PVAAC had recommended, similar to ADAAG, that this section address scoping for accessible parking spaces.  Parking is not addressed in the Board’s draft guidelines because parking on most ferries is a highly controlled activity as opposed to the undirected parking which normally occurs in a landside parking lot.  Unlike landside parking lots, vehicles typically queue up in preparation to enter a ferry at a set time, with space generally provided on a first-come-first-serve basis.  Vehicles entering the ferry are often directed to a particular lane and are required to fill the lane starting at the front of the ferry.  Depending on the number of vehicles loaded and each vehicle=s weight, vehicles may be directed to certain areas to reduce the weight impact on the stability of the ferry.  High top vehicles may also be directed to particular lanes to ensure that sufficient vertical clearance is provided. 

When ferry demand is high, crew members ensure the spacing between vehicles is at a minimum, thereby maximizing the carrying capacity of the ferry.  Because of these factors, individual parking spaces are not designated on a ferry as in a landside parking lot.  Although lane markings are generally provided to assist drivers and crew members in aligning the vehicles, parking lanes are not further demarcated into individual parking spaces.  This is because vehicle lengths vary and unused space is not desirable during times of high demand. 

PVAAC recommended (in chapter 8 of its report) that a certain number of rectangular shaped boxes be marked on vehicle decks to serve as accessible parking spaces.  These boxes contained the space for a vehicle and its associated access aisle.  Spaces varied in size depending on whether the box served van parking or car parking.  Technical provisions for bus parking spaces were also included in the PVAAC report, but no recommendation on scoping was included.  Both van spaces and bus spaces were provided with vertical clearance minimums. 

Although PVAAC provided these recommendations, it noted that an effective parking management plan was also necessary to ensure accessible parking was available to persons with disabilities.  In discussions with PVAAC members about ferry operations, it was clear that having an effective parking management plan is of primary importance.  If the need is not identified before the parking areas near the elevator (or other passenger service areas) are filled up, providing a marked accessible parking area near such desirable facilities will have little value.  Marking primarily assists crew members in positioning vehicles and ensuring access aisles and connecting accessible routes remain unobstructed. 

Depending on the degree of crew training and the complexity of the loading process, marking schemes will vary to assist crew members in meeting accessible parking demand.  Depending on when a vehicle appears in the queue line, general ADA non-discrimination requirements may require operators to accommodate accessible parking needs regardless of how many accessible "parking spaces" are provided.  For example, if a ferry provides three marked parking boxes, but four vehicles needing accessibility features (e.g., access aisles and accessible routes) were loaded, the operator may have to ensure additional space is left unobstructed to service the fourth vehicle. Likewise, if a lift-equipped bus carrying persons with disabilities entered the ferry, the operator may have to ensure space is left unobstructed to deploy the lift and that additional space is unobstructed to provide the accessible route to the areas of the vessel where goods and services are provided to passengers.  Also, if a vehicle needing accessibility features arrived at the last minute of the loading process on a full ferry, some unobstructed space may still be necessary even though such space would not necessarily connect to all areas where passenger services are provided.  For these reasons, these draft guidelines do not propose marking accessible parking spaces or access aisles. 

As no ferry has been identified which did not have a high clearance lane, the PVAAC recommendation regarding vertical clearance provisions is not necessary.

V213 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities

This section provides scoping criteria for public toilet facilities and bathing facilities.  PVAAC had recommended that 5 percent, but not less than one, of single user toilet rooms in a cluster be accessible.  For consistency with ADAAG, 50 percent of clustered single user toilet facilities are required to be accessible.

V217 Telephones

This section provides scoping criteria for public telephones and TTYs and has been modified from what ADAAG 217 requires.  Because few public telephones are provided on passenger vessels, the draft guidelines propose that at each location containing public telephones, at least one shall be wheelchair accessible and at least one shall have a TTY.  This section does not apply to telephones provided in passenger guest rooms. 

Where public telephones are provided, the telephones may allow communication off the vessel when underway but primarily only allow communication within the vessel.  For example, a courtesy telephone near a cruise ship restaurant or concierge=s desk is provided to allow passengers to call other passengers in their guest rooms. 

As these draft guidelines only apply to the design, construction, and alteration of passenger vessels, the draft does not address whether third party relay systems must be provided by vessel operators.  Such relay systems allow persons who use TTYs to contact vessel services and guest rooms not equipped with TTYs.  Questions regarding auxiliary communication aids and services for TTY users should be directed to the Department of Justice.

V219 Assistive Listening Systems

This section provides scoping criteria for assistive listening systems where communication through audio amplification is provided and is integral to the use of a space.  Similar to ADAAG, this section addresses assistive listening systems in assembly areas, but unlike ADAAG, the section also addresses assistive listening systems in public seating areas (see V221 regarding public seating areas).

Section V219.3 provides criteria for determining the number of receivers needed.  The section has been modified from what ADAAG requires and uses the total number of seats in the vessel to determine the number of receivers needed instead of the number of seats in each area.

V221 Assembly Areas and Public Seating Areas

This section specifies the number of wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and aisle seats required in assembly areas and public seating areas with fixed seating used by passengers.  The assembly area provisions are consistent with ADAAG, except that provisions for box and lawn seating were removed. 

The draft guidelines also depart from ADAAG in that provisions for “public seating areas” are included in the draft.  In a number of visits to passenger vessels by the Board, it was noted that some fixed seating areas do not contain dining and work surfaces and therefore are not subject to V226.  Also, these areas may not be assembly areas.  An assembly area is defined as a passenger vessel, or portion thereof, used for the purpose of entertainment, educational, or civic gatherings or similar purposes.  Because some seating areas may not be addressed by that definition, the public seating area provisions were included in these draft guidelines.  Public seating areas are essentially any fixed seating areas where V226 does not apply and the areas are not assembly areas.  To incorporate the addition of public seating area provisions, as discussed below, a number of changes have been made to V221.

Section V221.2 specifies the number of wheelchair spaces required.  As in ADAAG, table V221.2.1.1 is applied to each assembly area to determine the number of wheelchair spaces required in each area.  However, for public seating areas, the total number of seats in the vessel which are located in public seating areas are used.  From this total, the total number of wheelchair spaces required in public seating areas of the vessel is determined.  For example, if a vessel has two public seating areas and each area has 150 fixed seats, the vessel would have a total of 300 seats and would be required to provide five wheelchair spaces.  This section requires that wheelchair spaces in assembly areas and public seating areas be an integral part of the seating plan (see V221.2.2).  In general, because there is no specific area where the attention of seated passengers is focused, the lines of sight and dispersion requirements for assembly areas were not applied to public seating areas.

Since it is possible under table V221.2.1.1 that not every public seating area would have one or more wheelchair space, section V221.2.4 was added to address wheelchair space dispersion in public seating areas.  As some passenger vessels may be eligible to use the vertical access exceptions in V206.2.1, vessels without vertical access between decks must disperse all their wheelchair spaces in the public seating areas on the decks complying with V201.4.  There is a similar dispersal requirement for wheelchair spaces in assembly areas.

Section V221.3 specifies that at least one companion seat must be provided for each wheelchair space.  This section applies to assembly areas and public seating areas.  Technical requirements for the companion seat are located in V802.3.

Section V221.4 specifies the scoping for designated aisle seats in assembly areas.  Aisle seats in public seating areas are not subject to this provision.  Technical requirements for these aisle seats are located in V802.4.

V224 Passenger Guest Rooms

This section provides scoping criteria for passenger guest rooms (known as staterooms in the PVAAC report).  A passenger guest room could be provided for overnight berthing accommodations or simply for day use only.

One of the major issues discussed by PVAAC was whether doors to inaccessible guest rooms should be required to be 32 inches wide.  Because of the social interaction and visitation that often occurs in landside lodging facilities, ADAAG 224.1.2 requires doors to and within guest rooms that are not required to provide mobility features to have a 32 inch clear opening width.  As this same interaction and visitation occurs on passenger vessels, some PVAAC members were interested in applying this same provision to guest rooms in passenger vessels.

On many overnight passenger vessels, most guest rooms are smaller than those in lodging facilities on land, and the space in the inaccessible passenger guest rooms is not available to include doors with 32-inch clear opening widths.  To provide such doors, many guest rooms would have to be made wider, which may then reduce the number of guest rooms available on the vessel, or closet space and other amenity items may have to be removed to provide the additional space.  In some room configurations, even if the doors were made wider, further access within the rooms would be limited due to the small size of the guest rooms.  In designing new overnight passenger vessels, owners establish the minimum number of guest rooms needed on the vessel to help ensure profitability for the market the vessel owners plan to reach.  Although passenger vessels over the years have steadily increased in size, not every new vessel can be made larger to allow for bigger guest rooms.  For example, even large overnight vessels are limited in size if the vessel uses the Panama Canal.  Increased size may also impact vessel drafts which may reduce the number of ports the vessel may enter and the river systems on which the vessels may operate. Bridges and power lines can block vessel movements if vessels are too large to pass beneath them.

Recognizing that it may not be possible to require all guest room doors to be 32 inches wide, PVAAC developed (in chapter 7 of its report) an exception which modified the door clearance requirement in some cases where hospitality rooms and guest room connector doors were provided.  The exception required that each accessible hospitality room have the same size and many of the same features found in accessible guest rooms, although sleeping facilities were not required.  In addition, the exception required that the hospitality rooms be only available to passengers with mobility disabilities who are unable to enter inaccessible guest rooms or be made available to those non-disabled passengers unable to invite passengers with mobility disabilities into their inaccessible guest rooms.  The committee recommended that passenger vessel operators provide a means of entry to the accessible hospitality rooms that ensures passengers with mobility disabilities have similar spontaneous social experiences that they would get if the inaccessible guest rooms were accessible.  For practicability reasons, the draft guidelines do not require such hospitality rooms.

Section V224.2 specifies the number of accessible guest rooms and the number equipped with roll-in showers.  The section is consistent with ADAAG, except that in table V224.2, the second column was changed. 

Section V224.4 specifies the number of accessible guest rooms with communication features.  PVAAC had recommended using a table from the ADAAG Review advisory committee report for determining the number of rooms with accessible notification devices which were permitted to be portable.  For visual alarms, PVAAC recommended that all guest rooms be equipped with such alarms where guest rooms are served by audible alarms.  The draft guidelines remain consistent with ADAAG and uses table V224.4 to determine the number of rooms equipped with accessible alarms and notification devices.  The draft does not propose to apply any other accessibility requirement to these communications accessible rooms, except the protruding object requirements (see V204).

Section V224.6 specifies that guest rooms which are required to comply with V806.2 be provided on decks complying with V201.4.  For example, an overnight passenger vessel with two decks but only one entry deck contains 25 passenger guest rooms on each deck.  As this vessel has only one entry deck, exception 1 in V206.2.1 does not require vertical access between the two decks.  To satisfy V224.6, the two guest rooms required by V224.2 must be located on the entry deck.  However, if a complying means of vertical access connected the two decks, these guest rooms would be permitted by V224.6 to be located on any deck.

Chapter 3: Building Blocks

This chapter provides basic technical criteria considered to be the Abuilding blocks@ for accessibility as established by the draft guidelines.  These requirements address deck surfaces (V302), changes in level (V303), turning spaces (V304), clear deck spaces (V305), knee and toe clearances (V306), protruding objects (V307), reach ranges (V308), and operable parts (V309).  They are referenced by the scoping provisions in Chapter 2 and by the requirements in subsequent technical chapters (4 though 10).

V302 Deck Surfaces and V303 Changes in Level

These sections require deck surfaces to be stable, firm, and slip resistant, provide specifications for carpets, surface openings and changes in level in deck surfaces, and are consistent with similar provisions found in ADAAG.  However, an exception in each section is provided to address certain types of vehicle tie-down devices found on some ferries.  These vehicle tie-down devices are attached to flush openings on the deck surface.  The openings would not comply with V302.3 and have depths which are greater than that allowed by the change in level requirements of V303.  These exceptions are permitted only on vehicle deck surfaces which are not part of an accessible route.

V307 Protruding Objects

This section specifies minimum vertical clearances along circulation paths and maximum projections from the side into such paths.  Because sail rigging and other topside features could present a multitude of protruding objects on sailing vessels, PVAAC recommended that V307 not apply to the exterior deck areas of such vessels where the protruding objects did not block the accessible routes. 

The draft guidelines do not include this recommendation because the guidelines only apply to large passenger vessels.  In large passenger sailing vessels, it may be feasible in newly constructed vessels for exterior circulation paths used by passengers to be designed and constructed to meet the requirements of V307.  For existing large sailing vessels, where alterations would require correction of protruding objects on exterior paths, if such corrections were technically infeasible (see V202.3) the corrections would only be required to the maximum extent feasible.

In V307.2, PVAAC had recommended that the vertical range of 27 to 80 inches (within which side protrusions were limited to 4 inches maximum) be reduced to 6 to 80 inches.  For consistency purposes, V307.2 is unchanged from ADAAG.  The protruding objects requirements in this section are based on standard cane techniques used by people with vision impairments.  The techniques allow people to detect low side protrusions.  Two principal detection techniques are used: the touch technique and the diagonal technique.  People are often trained to use both.  The touch technique involves arcing the cane side-to-side to detect points beyond both shoulders and is often used in uncontrolled areas.  The diagonal technique involves holding the cane in a stationary position diagonally across the body with the bottom tip at the ground beyond one shoulder and the grip extending beyond the other shoulder.  This technique is generally used in certain controlled and familiar environments.  The standard sweep of canes allows detection of objects with leading edges up to 27 inches from the deck surface.  Proper cane and service animal techniques allow people to walk along corridors or paths without bumping into walls.  Overhangs that are above cane sweep height (27 inches) may protrude 4 inches maximum without being hazardous.

Section V307.4 specifies a minimum vertical clearance of 80 inches.  Clearances below 80 inches must be provided with guard rails or other barriers to alert persons with vision impairments.  As Subchapter K (46 CFR 116.800(b)) allows a minimum ceiling height of 74 inches, PVAAC was concerned that to increase ceiling heights to 80 inches would require an increase in spacing between decks on some vessels.  This increased deck spacing could impact the stability of some vessels by raising the center of gravity of the vessels.  Therefore, PVAAC recommended that for vessels whose main deck was less than 3,000 square feet, the minimum vertical clearance could be reduced from 80 inches to 78 inches without requiring guard rails or other barriers.

In the draft guidelines, although compliance with the vertical clearance requirements of V307.4 may increase the spacing between some decks, in all sizes of newly constructed large passenger vessels, this increase is reasonable in light of the access needs for persons with vision impairments.  In newly constructed vessels, the stability concerns mentioned above may be addressed in the initial design of the vessels.  For existing large passenger vessels, where alterations would require an increase in the vertical clearances provided along circulations paths, if such increases are technically infeasible (see V202.3), the increase will only be required to the maximum extent feasible.  For example, if an alteration requires an increase in the vertical clearance to 80 inches and it was technically infeasible to provide 80 inches, but 79 inches was feasible, then 79 inches is expected in that alteration. 

Chapter 4: Accessible Routes, Accessible Means of Escape, and Accessible Passenger Boarding Systems

This chapter provides technical criteria for accessible routes (V402) and the various components of such routes, including walking surfaces (V403), doors, doorways and gates (V404), ramps (V405), curb ramps (V406), elevators (V407 and V408), and platform lifts (V409).  In addition, the chapter contains technical criteria for the accessible means of escape and the various components of such escape routes (V410), including areas of temporary refuge (V411).  These two sections do not exist in ADAAG, because ADAAG references sections of the International Building Code (IBC).  The term Ameans of escape@ is used in the draft guidelines instead of the ADAAG term Ameans of egress@ for consistency with terminology used in Coast Guard regulations.  Lastly, the chapter also provides technical criteria for accessible passenger boarding systems and the components of such systems (V412), including gangways (V413).  Many of the components which may be used in an accessible means of escape or an accessible passenger boarding system are the same components used by accessible routes.

V403 Walking Surfaces

This section provides technical criteria for walking surfaces and is consistent with ADAAG, except for a provision and exception which address passenger vessels where the largest deck is less than 3,000 square feet.

V404 Doors, Doorways, and Gates

This section provides technical criteria for both doors, doorways, and gates that are manually operated (V404.2) and those that are automatic (V404.3).  The majority of changes made to the provisions incorporated from ADAAG were made to address door coaming issues.

Under Coast Guard regulations and two international conventions (i.e., Safety of Life at Sea, and Load Lines), certain weathertight doors are required to have raised thresholds (coamings) which are three or more inches in height that form a watertight barrier at the base of the doors.  These coamings help protect the operational stability of vessels, for example, by reducing the amount of water that may enter vessels through open exterior doors.  Coamings also improve the survivability of vessels.  When vessels have been damaged due to collision or other hazardous action, the coamings allow a portion of the doorways to be submerged without compromising the reserve buoyancy of the vessels. 

Although required at some doors by regulation and convention, PVAAC recognized the coamings were barriers for persons with disabilities.  They recommended using a Adouble ramp access@ or Asingle ramp access@ method to cross the coamings.  Both methods of access were recommended by PVAAC where coamings were required by an administrative authority or just provided as part of good design practice.  The two methods are used in the draft guidelines (with some changes) and are discussed in section V404.2.5.2 below.

PVAAC recommended that the provisions which implement the double and single ramp access methods be placed in a separate section (V404.4), but in this draft they have been included as exceptions to provisions located throughout V404.2 and V405.  No exceptions are needed in V404.3 (automatic doors) because the affected sections in V404.3 reference modified sections of V404.2 (manual doors).  To address door coamings, the draft guidelines set out three configurations of access. 

First Configuration of Access

The first configuration of access requires compliance with threshold (V404.2.5) and maneuvering clearance requirements (V404.2.4) similar to those found in ADAAG.  PVAAC believed that some doors which were required to have coamings could be designed to meet ADAAG requirements on both sides and still provide a level of vessel protection equivalent to that provided by coamings.  For this reason, PVAAC had recommended (in chapter 1, section 206.5.3, of its report) that where the main deck of a vessel is greater than 3,000 square feet, at least one exterior door on each accessible weather deck have thresholds that are a maximum of 2 inch high and comply with V302 and V303, except where prohibited by the administrative authority having jurisdiction.  This first configuration of access implements the PVAAC recommendation that both sides of the doors be fully accessible. 

Second Configuration of Access

In V404.2.5, three exceptions allow departure from the threshold requirements and represent the second configuration of access.  Exception 1 allows thresholds to be any height if the coamings are readily removable by crew and other passenger use conditions are met.  This exception allows flexibility in those circumstances where the administrative authority (e.g., the U.S. Coast Guard) permits the coamings to be removed when the vessel is in port but requires them to be reinstalled when the vessel is underway.  Also included in the second configuration of access, exceptions 2 and 3 set out conditions which allow use of a single ramp or double ramp method of access at doors required to have coamings.  One condition (exception 2) is based on the largest deck of the vessel being less than 3,000 square feet.  The other (exception 3) is based on a determination by the administrative authority that compliance with V404.2.5.1 is not feasible. This exception parallels the methodology used in V202.5 to address historic preservation issues.  Both exceptions 2 and 3 were influenced by the PVAAC 206.5.3 recommendation discussed above.

Within V404.2.5, two sections are provided.  Section V404.2.5.1 contains the threshold requirements found in ADAAG, and the ADAAG exception which allows existing thresholds to have a slightly higher beveled height.  Section V404.2.5.2 contains the threshold requirements for the double ramp and single ramp access methods.  Provisions in this section may only be used where allowed by exceptions 2 or 3 in V404.2.5.

The double ramp access method involves providing ramps on both sides of doors which connect at the top of the coamings.  As recommended by PVAAC, the provision notes that this method of access may only be used where the door is automatic.  Therefore, compliance with V404.3 (automatic doors) would also be required where double ramp access is used. 

The single ramp access method involves having a ramp on one side of the doors which connects the top of the coamings.  Exception 2 of V405.2 allows the ramp in the single ramp access method to use the running slope provisions in Table V405.2.  Table V405.2 sets the maximum slope at 1:8 for a 3 inch rise which is less than the 1:4 recommended by PVAAC.  Only one side of the coaming equipped doors could have a ramp.  The other side would be required to comply with threshold requirements similar to those found in ADAAG.  Also, PVAAC recommended that when using the single ramp access method, the non-ramp side would have maneuvering clearances consistent with ADAAG, except the maneuvering clearances were not required to be more than 48 inches in length measured perpendicular to the doorway.  The draft guidelines only allow the 48 inch limitation where the largest deck is less than 3,000 square feet (see exception 3 in V404.2.4). 

Other exceptions in the maneuvering clearance provisions of V404.2.4 and V404.2.4.4 and ramp provisions of V405.2 and V405.7 permit modification of some requirements to allow installation of either the double or single ramp access methods.  Figures V404.2.5.2.1 and V404.2.5.2.2 (which are included in the draft guidelines) provide section views of the single and double ramp access methods and contain references to the applicable sections and exceptions.

Third Configuration of Access

An exception in V404.2.5.2 implements the third configuration of access.  The exception allows the thresholds to have a non-beveled height of 1-1/4 inches maximum on one side of the doors where the administrative authority determines that due to space limitations it is not feasible to install the single ramp or double ramp access methods. 

The exception is included to support a Coast Guard provision (see 46 CFR 116.1160(d)(3)) which allows watertight doors with limited thresholds to be used instead of weathertight doors with three to six inch coamings.  To install a watertight door, the threshold would need to be only high enough to provide a watertight seal at the base of the door.  From discussions with marine door manufacturers, a minimum 1-1/4 inch vertical height was identified as necessary.  This height allows the doors to swing over the deck surface and provides a sufficient vertical surface at the base of the doorways to allow the watertight doors to form a watertight seal against the doorways.  This exception only applies to the side of the door threshold which comes in contact with the door seals.  The other side must comply with all door access requirements similar to what is found in the first configuration of access.

Other changes made to provisions in V404 incorporated from ADAAG include:

• Modifying the exception in 404.1 to address doors only operated by crew;
• Adding exception 2 to V404.2.4 to not require maneuvering clearances on the outboard side of doors and gates at entry and departure points;
• Treating watertight doors like fire doors in terms of applying the force opening requirements in V404.2.9;
• Adding an exception to V404.2.9 which indicates the section does not apply to doors on sailing vessels.

V405 Ramps

This section provides technical criteria for ramps and is consistent with ADAAG.  However, exceptions have been included which address door coamings and implement reduced clearance requirements where the largest deck of a passenger vessel is less than 3,000 square feet in size.

V406 Curb Ramps

This section provides technical criteria for curb ramps.  The ADAAG curb ramp sections which address location, diagonal curb ramps, and islands have not been included.  PVAAC had indicated that the features addressed by these sections do not exist on passenger vessels which carry vehicles.

V407 Elevators

This section provides technical criteria for elevators and is consistent with ADAAG, except for two issues.  ADAAG requires hoistway designations and a symbol on car control buttons to orient users to the main entry floor of a building.  As vessel entry decks may change based on the port in which the vessel is embarking or disembarking passengers, using the ADAAG orientation provisions may lead to confusion if the vessel has more than one main entry deck based on its different ports of call.  In V407.2.3.1 and V407.4.7.1.3, changes have been made to apply the orientation requirements to vessels with only one entry deck. 

The second change concerns section V407.4.10 which does not exist in ADAAG.  The section requires handrails provided in elevators to comply with V503.  The section allows handrails to overlap the clearances required in elevators provided the handrails comply with the protruding object requirements in V307.2.

Although PVAAC provided a number of recommendations regarding elevators, most are not included in these draft guidelines to keep the requirements consistent with ADAAG elevator provisions.  PVAAC recommendations included requiring: visible signals at hall call and car control buttons to consist of white lights to improve visibility for persons with vision impairments; where a hall call or car control button is flush, a tactile distinction be placed on the button to differentiate it from the surrounding surface; no protruding objects located within the space beneath the hall call buttons so service animals could activate the button; audible signal or verbal annunciators readings to be measured at the annunciator instead of the call button; the handset used in emergency communications to be hearing-aid compatible.

PVAAC also recommended two additional sizes for elevator cars besides the four already provided.  A car with a side to side dimension of 65 inches and front to back dimension of 54 inches was recommended.  This car was reportedly used in a number of foreign flagged cruise ships.  The recommendation was not included in the draft guidelines for consistency with ADAAG.  It is noted that for existing elevators, the exception under V407.4.1 would allow the car dimensions recommended above.  Therefore, the draft guidelines would not require such existing elevators to be changed when alterations were performed. 

The second recommendation included an elevator car 54 inches side to side and 65 inches front to back, and was reportedly needed to address casing problems on vehicle ferries.  On a number of vehicle ferries, a narrow central casing is located between vehicle lanes provided on the sides of the ferry.  Within the casing, stairs and narrow elevators connect the decks above.  The casing also contains exhaust ducts and ventilation ducts for engine rooms and other spaces located below the vehicle deck.  If a wider elevator is required, casings must be made wider which in turn may require the entire vessel to be wider because portions of the casing should not project into vehicle lanes.  The recommendation was not included, because one of the other four choices from ADAAG already contained an elevator with the same 54 inch width.  Although, this type of elevator has a front to back dimension of 80 inches, the Board questions if 15 additional inches are that critical in the casing of large vehicle ferries.  Also, in ferries less than 10,000 ITC tons, section V206.6 allows use of LULA elevators which have car dimensions that are less than what is contained in the PVAAC recommendation (see V408.4).

V408 Limited-Use/Limited-Application Elevators

This section provides technical criteria for LULA elevators. PVAAC had recommended two exceptions for ferries and other passenger vessels which are less than 1,000 ITC tons that would have allowed LULA elevators to have 36 inch clear widths.  Neither exception has been included in the draft guidelines because V206.7 allows platform lifts to be used in new construction to access decks less than 3,000 square feet.  As platform lifts may be 36 inches wide, no additional exception is needed in V408 to allow narrower LULA elevators for passenger vessels of less than 1,000 ITC tons.

V409 Platform Lifts

This section provides technical criteria for platform lifts and is consistent with ADAAG 410, except in two areas.  First, V409 does not require platform lifts to comply with ASME A18.1 because that safety standard does not have provisions for shipboard platform lifts.  Secondly, section V409.6 is included and requires that where handrails are provided on platform lifts, the handrails conform to V503.  The section allows handrails complying with V307.2 to overlap clearances for platform lifts where handrail supports do not project into the clear deck space required by V409.3.

V410 Means of Escape

This section provides technical criteria for each accessible means of escape required by V207. Section V410 does not exist in ADAAG because the International Building Code (IBC) is referenced for the technical requirements for means of egress.  As the IBC is not appropriate for application on passenger vessels, section V410 was created based on the IBC provisions and PVAAC recommendations.

Common changes made to the IBC provisions that appear throughout V410 include changing the term Aarea of refuge@ to Aarea of temporary refuge@.  In Coast Guard regulations and guidance (46 CFR 114.400 and Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular 8-93), areas of refuge (or qualified refuge areas) tend to be large fire protected spaces which may hold hundreds of passengers (similar to a horizontal exit in the building environment).  Areas of refuge are often located in the vicinity of an evacuation station, and in some cases, they may be located within an evacuation station.  In the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), Aareas of refuge@ are known as muster stations and assembly stations.  However, in the IBC, the term Aarea of refuge@ refers to spaces which are generally of a size that can hold a few occupants who are waiting for assistance.  As recommended by PVAAC, the above smaller spaces are referred to in these draft guidelines as Aareas of temporary refuge@ to avoid confusion with the Coast Guard=s Aareas of refuge@.

In addition, the draft guidelines replace the IBC term Ahorizontal exit@ with Aarea of refuge@.  As mentioned above, the Coast Guard Aareas of refuge@ are similar to horizontal exits in the building environment.  In the various sections of V410, exceptions often allow departures from the requirements where areas of refuge are used and they comply with Coast Guard safety requirements.  Also, the draft replaces the IBC term Astandby power@ with Aemergency power@ which is a more recognized marine industry term.  Lastly, where the IBC provisions for automatic sprinkler systems are called out, the draft guidelines reference automatic sprinkler requirements contained in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 13 or SOLAS II-2.  Both documents are approved for use by the Coast Guard. 

Section V410.1 lists the various components which may be used to provide an accessible means of escape.  Many of the components are identical to the components used in accessible routes.  The components are walking surfaces (V403), doors, doorways and gates (V404), ramps (V405), and curb ramps (V406), but also include exit stairways (V410.2), elevators (V410.3), and platform lifts (V410.4).  Section V410.1 uses V206.6 to determine whether elevators or LULA elevators may be used as a component, and V206.7 to determine whether platform lifts are allowed to be used as a component. 

In addition, V410.1 requires that each accessible means of escape comply with the administrative authority requirements applicable to the corresponding required means of escape from that space. As discussed in V207, the administrative authority requires most passenger spaces of a passenger vessel to have at least one means of escape from the spaces.  Section V207 requires an accessible means of escape for each means of escape required by the administrative authority.  Although the accessible means of escape required by these draft guidelines is not required to follow the same path as the required means of escape, section V410.1 requires the accessible means of escape to comply with the same safety requirements (e.g., fire and smoke protection) established by the administrative authority applicable to the required means of escape.

For example, a passenger cabin in a U.S. flagged passenger vessel is located on the second deck of a vessel.  From this cabin, the Coast Guard (the administrative authority) requires two means of escape to the first deck where the evacuation stations are located.  The Coast Guard requires at least one path to be a protected stairway, but allows the other to be an open stair.  If this cabin is an accessible cabin, to satisfy V207.1 and V207.2, at least two accessible means of escape must be provided to the first deck.  Because the Coast Guard requires one means of escape to be an enclosed stair, V410.1 then requires that at least one accessible means of escape to be an enclosed stair (if an exit stair is used as a component in the accessible means of escape).  The other accessible means of escape is not required to be an enclosed stair.  Likewise, if the Coast Guard required one of the means of escape to be independent of watertight doors, one of the accessible means of escape must be independent of watertight doors.

Section V410.2 contains the technical requirements for exit stairways which may be used as a component in an accessible means of escape, and is generally consistent with IBC 1003.2.13.2, except for the common changes discussed above and exception 5 in V410.2.  Also, because the Coast Guard does not require every exit stair to be enclosed, the provision in IBC 1003.2.13.1 that requires only stairways within exit enclosures to be used in an accessible means of escape was not included. 

Exception 5 does not exist in the IBC and comes from a PVAAC recommendation.  Due to possible space limitations on Subchapter K vessels, the requirement for 48 inches between handrails on exit stairs would be a problem.  PVAAC allowed Subchapter K vessels to have 36 inches between handrails.  As some Subchapter K vessels can carry over 1,000 passengers, applying the PVAAC exception to all Subchapter K vessels places persons with disabilities at undue risk.  Where Subchapter K vessels can carry more than 600 passengers or more than 49 overnight passengers, the Coast Guard requires (see 46 CFR 116.438(a)) such vessels to meet certain improved safety requirements applicable to Subchapter H vessels.  Taking guidance from the Coast Guard provision, the PVAAC exception was modified to allow vessels with 600 or fewer passengers or 49 or fewer overnight passengers to have exit stairs which are 36 inches wide between handrails.

Section V410.3, in addition to V407 or V408, contains the technical requirements applicable to where an elevator is used as a component in an accessible means of escape.  Where V207.3 applies, at least one elevator complying with V410.3 would be required.

Section V410.4 contains the technical requirements applicable to when platform lifts are used as a component in an accessible means of escape.  The section requires compliance with V409 and that the platform lift shall be provided with emergency power. 

PVAAC and the IBC also address posting instructions and identification signage for areas of temporary refuge.  These requirements are included in V216.4.

V412 Passenger Boarding Systems

This section provides a list of various components which may be used as part of an accessible passenger boarding system where such a system is required by V208.  Many of the components are identical to the components used in accessible routes.  The components are walking surfaces (V403), doors, doorways and gates (V404), ramps (V405), curb ramps (V406), elevators (V407 or V408), platform lifts (V409), and gangways (V413).

V413 Gangways

This section provides technical criteria for gangways.  Gangways are defined in V106.5 as a variable-sloped pedestrian walkway that connects a passenger vessel to a floating pier or to a fixed pier or land where no floating pier is used.  The provisions of this section came from the ramp provisions in V405 but were modified as follows:

• The exceptions in V405 applicable to the single or double ramp access methods for doors with coamings were not included;
• The maximum rise requirement in V405.6 and the landing length exception in V405.7.3 were not included;
• Exceptions 2 through 5 are included in V413.2 to address alterations to existing gangways and running slope requirements;
• A transition plate requirement is included in V405.6, and exceptions regarding transition plates and handrails are included in V413.7 and V413.8.

Section V413.6 requires gangway transition plates to have a visual contrast with adjacent passenger walkways to alert persons with visual impairments of transitions.  The Board is considering whether such transition plates should also have surfaces which differ from adjoining walkway surfaces in resiliency or sound-on-cane contact.  The Board seeks comment on this issue and what test methods are available to measure resiliency or sound-on-cane contact that provide sufficient notification to persons who are blind about the presence of transition plates. 

Chapter 5: General Passenger Vessel Elements

This chapter provides technical criteria for stairways (V502), and handrails (V503).  An exception is included in V503.4 which addresses conditions where the administrative authority may require guardrails (which are also intended to function as handrails) to be mounted above 38 inches.

Chapter 6: Plumbing Elements and Facilities

This chapter provides technical criteria for plumbing elements and facilities, including drinking fountains (V602), toilet and bathing rooms (V603), water closets and toilet compartments (V604), urinals (V605), lavatories and sinks (V606), bathtubs (V607), shower compartments and rinsing showers (V608), grab bars (V609), tub and shower seats (V610), and laundry equipment (V611).  Provisions for rinsing showers are included in V608.

Chapter 7: Communication Elements

This chapter provides technical criteria for communication elements, including emergency alarm systems (V702), signs (V703), telephones (V704), two-way communication systems (V705), assistive listening systems (V706), and automatic teller machines (V707).

V702 Emergency Alarm Systems

This section provides technical criteria for audible and visual alarms used in emergency alarm systems, and refers to NFPA 72, Chapter 4, for most of its requirements.  PVAAC noted a conflict between sound level requirements in the recommendations and alarm signal requirements in Coast Guard regulations.  After review with the Coast Guard, no conflict was identified.  Section V702 remains consistent with ADAAG.

Chapter 8: Special Rooms, Spaces, and Elements

This chapter provides technical criteria for various types of elements, rooms and spaces, including assembly seating (V802), dressing, fitting, and locker rooms (V803), kitchens and kitchenettes (V804), medical care patient sleeping rooms (V805), passenger guest rooms (V806), detention cells (V807), and storage (V808).

V806 Passenger Guest Rooms

This section provides technical criteria for passenger guest rooms and is consistent with ADAAG except for one change.  Section V806.2.7 requires that doors to adjacent guest rooms comply with V404.  For example, a guest room equipped with mobility features is provided as required by V224.2.  In this room, a door is provided which directly connects the guest room with an adjacent guest room which is not accessible.  Under V806.2.7, the connector door must comply with V404 on both sides.  The section does not require that connector doors be provided, but only applies where such doors are provided in rooms required to be equipped with mobility features.

Chapter 9: Built-In Elements

This chapter provides technical criteria for built-in elements, including dining surfaces and work surfaces (V902), changing benches (V903), and sales and service counters (V904).

Chapter 10: Recreation Facilities and Play Areas

This chapter provides technical criteria for various types of recreation facilities and play areas, including exercise machines (V1002), miniature golf facilities (V1003), play areas (V1004), swimming pools, wading pools, and spas (V1005), and shooting positions (V1006).  Two exceptions are included in the transfer system provisions which may be used when accessing wading pools.

PVAG CHAPTER 1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION

V101 Purpose.  This document contains scoping and technical requirements for accessibility to passenger vessels by individuals with disabilities.  The requirements are to be applied during the design, construction, additions to, and alteration of facilities and elements on passenger vessels to the extent required by regulations issued by Federal agencies under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

V102 Dimensions for Adults and Children.  The technical requirements are based on adult dimensions and anthropometrics.  In addition, this document includes technical requirements based on children’s dimensions and anthropometrics for drinking fountains, water closets, toilet compartments, lavatories and sinks, dining surfaces, and work surfaces.

V103 Equivalent Facilitation.  Nothing in these requirements prevents the use of designs, products, or technologies as alternatives to those prescribed, provided they result in substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.

V104 Conventions

V104.1 Dimensions.  Dimensions that are not stated as “maximum” or “minimum” are absolute.

V104.1.1 Construction and Manufacturing Tolerances.  All dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances except where the requirement is stated as a range with specific minimum and maximum end points.

V104.1.2 Slopes.  All slopes are measured when the passenger vessel is in a static condition with design trim and heel.

V104.2 Calculation of Percentages.  Where the required number of elements or facilities to be provided is determined by calculations of ratios or percentages and remainders or fractions result, the next greater whole number of such elements or facilities shall be provided.  Where the determination of the required size or dimension of an element or facility involves ratios or percentages, rounding down for values less than one half shall be permitted.

V104.3 Figures.  Unless specifically stated otherwise, figures are provided for informational purposes only.

V105 Referenced Standards

V 105.1 General.  The standards listed in V105.2 are incorporated by reference in this document and are part of the requirements to the prescribed extent of each such reference.  The Director of the Federal Register has approved these standards for incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.  Copies of the referenced standards may be inspected at the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, 1331 F Street, NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC  20004.

V105.2 Referenced Standards.  The specific edition of the standards listed below are referenced in this document.  Where differences occur between this document and the referenced standards, this document applies.

V105.2.1 ANSI/BHMA.  Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association, 355 Lexington Avenue, 17th floor, New York, New York 10017 (http://www.buildershardware.com).

ANSI/BHMA A156.10-1999 American National Standard for Power Operated Pedestrian Doors (see V404.3).

ANSI/BHMA A156.19-1997 American National Standard for Power Assist and Low Energy Power Operated Doors (see V404.3, and V408.3.2.1).

ANSI/BHMA A156.19-2002 American National Standard for Power Assist and Low Energy Power Operated Doors (see V404.3, and V408.3.2.1).

V105.2.2 ASME.  Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Three Park Avenue, New York, New York 10016 (http://www.asme.org).

ASME A17.1- 2000 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators, including ASME A17.1a-2002 Addenda and ASME A17.1b-2003 Addenda (see V407.1, and V408.1).

V105.2.3 ASTM.  Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Bar Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania 19428 (http://www.astm.org).

ASTM F 1292-99 Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surface Systems Under and Around Playground Equipment (see V1004.2.6.2).

ASTM F 1292-04 Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surface Systems Under and Around Playground Equipment (see V1004.2.6.2).

ASTM F 1487-01 Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use (see V106.5).

ASTM F 1951-99 Standard Specification for Determination of Accessibility of Surface Systems Under and Around Playground Equipment (see V1004.2.6.1).

V105.2.4 IMO.  Copies of the referenced standard may be obtained from the International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embarkment, London SE1 7SR United Kingdom (http://www.imo.org).

SOLAS II-2 (see V207.3, V410.2, and V410.3).

V105.2.5 NFPA.  Copies of the referenced standards may be obtained from the National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169 -7471 (http://www.nfpa.org).

NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2002 Edition (see V207.3, V410.2 and V410.3).

NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code, 1999 Edition (see V702.1, and V806.3.1).

NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm Code, 2002 Edition (see V702.1, and V806.3.1).

V106 Definitions

V106.1 General.  For the purpose of this document, the terms defined in V106.5 have the indicated meaning.

V106.2 Terms Defined in Referenced Standards. Terms not defined in V106.5 or in regulations issued by the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation to implement the Americans with Disabilities Act, but specifically defined in a referenced standard, shall have the specified meaning from the referenced standard unless otherwise stated.

V106.3 Undefined Terms.  The meaning of terms not specifically defined in V106.5 or in regulations issued by the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation to implement the Americans with Disabilities Act or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.

V106.4 Interchangeability.  Words, terms and phrases used in the singular include the plural and those used in the plural include the singular.

V106.5 Defined Terms.

Accessible.  A passenger vessel or portion thereof that complies with this part.

Accessible Means of Escape.  A continuous path of escape travel to an evacuation station.

Addition.  An expansion, extension, or increase in the gross deck area or height of a passenger vessel.

Administrative Authority.  The US Coast Guard or other governmental agency that adopts or enforces regulations and guidelines for the design, construction, or alteration of passenger vessels.

Alteration.  A change to a passenger vessel that affects or could affect the usability of the passenger vessel or portion thereof.  Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, reconstruction, historic restoration, changes or rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and changes or rearrangement in the plan configuration of bulkheads and partitions.  Normal maintenance, painting or wallpapering, or changes to propulsion, mechanical and electrical systems are not alterations unless they affect the usability of the passenger vessel.

Area of Refuge.  An area that is separated from the effects of fire and flooding where passengers can gather in an emergency, and then if necessary be directed to an evacuation station for disembarking a vessel.

Area of Sport Activity.  That portion of a room or space where the play or practice of a sport occurs.

Area of Temporary Refuge.  An area where people who are unable to use stairs may remain temporarily to await further instructions or assistance during emergency evacuation.

Assembly Area.  A passenger vessel, or portion thereof, used for the purpose of entertainment, educational or civic gatherings, or similar purposes.  For the purposes of these requirements, assembly areas include, but are not limited to, classrooms, lecture halls, passenger meeting rooms, motion picture houses, auditoria, theaters, playhouses, dinner theaters, and concert halls.

Assistive Listening System (ALS).  An amplification system utilizing transmitters, receivers, and coupling devices to bypass the acoustical space between a sound source and a listener by means of induction loop, radio frequency, infrared, or direct-wired equipment.

Bulkhead Deck.  The upper most deck to which watertight bulkheads and the watertight shell extend.

Camber.  The curvature given to the weather deck surfaces to shed water readily, increase deck surface strength, and increase headroom clearance on the centerline for the deck below.  Also known as the rise or crown of a deck.

Catch Pool.  A pool or designated section of a pool used as a terminus for water slide flumes.

Characters.  Letters, numbers, punctuation marks and typographic symbols.

Children’s Use.  Describes spaces and elements specifically designed for use primarily by people 12 years old and younger.

Circulation Path.  An exterior or interior way of passage provided for pedestrian travel, including but not limited to, weather deck areas, passageways, elevators, platform lifts, ramps, stairways, and landings.

Closed-Circuit Telephone.  A telephone with a dedicated line such as a courtesy phone or phone that must be used to gain entry to a facility.

Coaming.  The vertical plating located at the base of a door for the purpose of stiffening the edges of the opening and resisting entry of water.

Cross Slope.  The slope that is perpendicular to the direction of travel (see running slope).

Curb Ramp.  A short ramp cutting through a curb or built up to it.

Deck.  A horizontal division of a passenger vessel, which contains space designed for passenger occupancy and generally corresponds to a story in a building.  A horizontal division without enclosed space, such as a sundeck, is considered a deck even though it is not provided with a covering.  A deck containing one or more mezzanines has more than one deck level.

Element.  An architectural or mechanical component of a passenger vessel, facility, or space.

Elevated Play Component.  A play component that is approached above the ground level of the play area and that is part of a composite play structure consisting of two or more play components attached or functionally linked to create an integrated unit providing more than one play activity.

Entry Deck.  A deck which contains passenger entry and departure points which allow pedestrian passengers to embark or disembark a passenger vessel from fixed piers, floating piers or the land in non-emergency conditions.

Evacuation Station.  The end point in a path of escape travel on a passenger vessel.  It includes life boat stations, life raft stations, or other places where passengers depart the vessel in an emergency and may include embarkation stations.

Facility.  All or any portion of passenger vessels, structures, vessel improvements, elements, and pedestrian routes or vehicular ways located on a passenger vessel.

Gangway.  A variable-sloped pedestrian walkway that connects a passenger vessel to a floating pier or connects a passenger vessel to a fixed pier or land where no floating pier is used.

Ground Level.  The level within a deck where a play area is located.

Ground Level Play Component.  A play component that is approached and exited at the ground level.

ITC.  International Tonnage Convention.

Mail Boxes.  Receptacles for the receipt of documents, packages, or other deliverable matter.

Mezzanine.  An intermediate level or levels between the deck surface and ceiling of any deck with an aggregate deck surface area of not more than one-third of the area of the room or space in which the level or levels are located.  Mezzanines have sufficient elevation that space for human occupancy can be provided on the deck level below.

Occupant Load.  The number of persons for which the means of escape from a portion of a passenger vessel is designed.

Operable Part.  A component of an element used to insert or withdraw objects, or to activate, deactivate, or adjust the element.

Passenger Areas.  Areas of a passenger vessel which are not restricted only to crew or other employees.

Pictogram.  A pictorial symbol that represents activities, facilities, or concepts.

Play Area.  A portion of a passenger vessel containing play components designed and constructed for children.

Play Component.  An element intended to generate specific opportunities for play, socialization, or learning.  Play components are manufactured or part of the vessel; and are stand-alone or part of a composite play structure.

Public Seating Area.  An area, other than an assembly area, where fixed seats are provided for passengers, and dining or work surfaces are not provided.

Qualified Historic Passenger Vessel.  A passenger vessel that is listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, or designated as historic under an appropriate State or local law.

Ramp.  A walking surface that has a running slope steeper than 1:20.

Running Slope.  The slope that is parallel to the direction of travel (see cross slope).

Sailing Vessel.  A vessel principally equipped for propulsion by sail even if the vessel has an auxiliary means of propulsion.

Sheer.  The fore-and-aft curvature from bow to stern of a ship’s deck surface as shown in side elevation.

Soft Contained Play Structure.  A play structure made up of one or more play components where the user enters a fully enclosed play environment that utilizes pliable materials, such as plastic, netting, or fabric.

SOLAS.  International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as amended, to which the United States Government is a party.

Space.  A definable area, such as a room, toilet room, corridor, assembly area, open deck area, storage room, alcove, or lobby

Structural Members.  The components of the passenger vessel that give it its inherent strength, integrity, and resistance to damage.  Examples include, but are not limited to, the keel, keelson, stem and stern posts, frames, longitudinals, structural decks, structural and fire protection bulkheads, gussets, stanchions, columns, girders, beams, knees, trusses, and hull plating and planking.

Tactile.  An object that can be perceived using the sense of touch.

Technically Infeasible.  With respect to an alteration of a passenger vessel, something that has little likelihood of being accomplished because existing structural conditions would require removing or altering an essential structural member; or because other existing physical or vessel constraints prohibit modification or addition of elements, spaces, or features that are in full and strict compliance with the minimum requirements.

Transition Plate.  A sloping pedestrian walkway located at the end(s) of a gangway, or between gangways segments on a telescoping gangway.

TTY.  An abbreviation for teletypewriter.  Machinery that employs interactive text-based communication through the transmission of coded signals across the telephone network.  TTYs may include, for example, devices known as TDDs (telecommunication display devices or telecommunication devices for deaf persons) or computers with special modems.  TTYs are also called text telephones.

Use Zone.  The area beneath and immediately adjacent to a play structure or play equipment that is designated by ASTM F 1487 Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use (incorporated by reference, see  “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1) for unrestricted circulation around the play equipment and where it is predicted that a user would land when falling from or exiting the play equipment.

Vehicular Way.  A route provided for vehicular traffic.

Wheelchair Space.  Space for a single wheelchair and its occupant.
 

CHAPTER 2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS

V201 Application

V201.1 Scope.  All passenger areas of newly designed and newly constructed passenger vessels permitted to carry more than 150 passengers or more than 49 overnight passengers, and altered portions of existing passenger vessels permitted to carry more than 150 passengers or more than 49 overnight passengers shall comply with these requirements.

V201.2 Application Based on Facility Use.  Where a facility, room, or space on a passenger vessel contains more than one use, each portion shall comply with the applicable requirements for that use.

V201.3 Temporary and Permanent Structures.  These requirements shall apply to temporary and permanent facilities on passenger vessels.

V201.4 Passenger Amenities.  At least one of each type of element, space and facility used by passengers shall be on an entry deck or connected by an onboard accessible routeto an entry deck.

V202 Existing Passenger Vessels

V202.1 General.  Additions and alterations to existing passenger vessels shall comply with V202.

V202.2 Additions.  Each addition to an existing passenger vessel shall comply with the requirements for new construction.  Each addition that affects or could affect the usability of or access to an area containing a primary function shall comply with V202.4.

V202.3 Alterations.  Where existing elements or spaces are altered, each altered element or space shall comply with the applicable requirements of Chapter 2.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Unless required by V202.4, where elements or spaces are altered and the circulation path to the altered element or space is not altered, an onboard accessible route shall not be required.

2.  In alterations, where compliance with applicable requirements is technically infeasible, the alteration shall comply with the requirements to the maximum extent feasible.

3.  In alterations, each alteration shall provide accessibility to the maximum extent feasible where compliance with applicable provisions would result in:

(a) an increase in tonnage that changes the classification from 46 CFR subchapter K to 46 CFR subchapter H;

(b) a violation of the minimum requirements established by the administrative authority for the stability of the vessel;

(c) a violation of the minimum requirements established by the administrative authority for the structural integrity or fire resistance of a Class A or B bulkhead or deck surface; or

(d) an increase in power load in excess of the existing power supply.

V202.3.1 Prohibited Reduction in Access.  An alteration that decreases or has the effect of decreasing the accessibility of a passenger vessel below the requirements for new construction at the time of the alteration is prohibited.

V202.3.2 Extent of Application.  An alteration of an existing element, space, or area of a passenger vessel shall not impose a requirement for accessibility greater than required for new construction.

V202.4 Alterations Affecting Primary Function Areas.  In addition to the requirements of V202.3, an alteration that affects or could affect the usability of or access to an area containing a primary function shall be made so as to ensure that, to the maximum extent feasible, the path of travel to the altered area, including the rest rooms, telephones, and drinking fountains serving the altered area, are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities, unless such alterations are disproportionate to the overall alterations in terms of cost and scope as determined under criteria established by the Attorney General.

V202.5 Alterations to Qualified Historic Passenger Vessels.  Alterations to a qualified historic passenger vessel shall comply with V202.3 and V202.4.

EXCEPTION:  Where the State Historic Preservation Officer or Advisory Council on Historic Preservation determines that compliance with the requirements for onboard accessible routes or toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historic significance of the passenger vessel, the exceptions for alterations to qualified historic passenger vessels for that element shall be permitted to apply.

V203 General Exceptions

V203.1 General.  Passenger vessels shall be exempt from these requirements to the extent specified by V203.

V203.2 Limited Access Spaces.  Spaces accessed only by ladders, catwalks, crawl spaces, manholes, hatches, or very narrow passageways shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an onboard accessible route.

V203.3 Camber and Sheer.  Where necessary to meet camber and sheer needs of the vessel, running slopes and cross slopes shall comply with these requirements to the maximum extent feasible.

V 203.4 Raised Refereeing, Judging, and Scoring Areas.  Raised structures used solely for refereeing, judging, or scoring a sport shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an onboard accessible route.

V203.5 Water Slides.  Water slides shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an onboard accessible route.

V203.6 Raised Boxing or Wrestling Rings.  Raised boxing or wrestling rings shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an onboard accessible route.

V203.7 Raised Diving Boards and Diving Platforms.  Raised diving boards and diving platforms shall not be required to comply with these requirements or to be on an onboard accessible route.

V204 Protruding Objects

V204.1 General.  Protruding objects on circulation paths shall comply with V307.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Within areas of sport activity, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with V307.

2.  Within play areas, protruding objects on circulation paths shall not be required to comply with V307 provided that ground level accessible routes provide vertical clearance in compliance with V1004.2.

V205 Operable Parts

V205.1 General.  Operable parts on accessible elements, onboard accessible routes, and in accessible rooms and spaces shall comply with V309.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Operable parts that are intended for use only by crew, or service or maintenance personnel shall not be required to comply with V309.

2.  Electrical or communication receptacles serving a dedicated use shall not be required to comply with V309.

3.  Where two or more outlets are provided in a kitchen above a length of counter top that is uninterrupted by a sink or appliance, one outlet shall not be required to comply with V309.

4.  Deck surface electrical receptacles shall not be required to comply with V309.

5.  HVAC diffusers shall not be required to comply with V309.

6.  Except for light switches, where redundant controls are provided for a single element, one control in each space shall not be required to comply with V309.

7.  Exercise machines shall not be required to comply with V309.

V206 Onboard Accessible Routes

V206.1 General.  Onboard accessible routes shall be provided in accordance with V206 and shall comply with Chapter 4.

V206.2 Where Required.  Onboard accessible routes shall be provided where required by V206.2.

V206.2.1 Multi-Deck Passenger Vessels.  At least one onboard accessible route shall connect each passenger deck and mezzanine in multi-deck passenger vessels.  At least one onboard accessible route shall connect each entry deck in passenger vessels with multiple entry decks.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  On passenger vessels that have fewer than three decks or that have less than 3000 square feet per deck (279 m²), an onboard accessible route shall not be required to connect passenger decks that are not entry decks.

2.  Decks, other than entry decks, that have less than 300 (28 m²) square feet per deck shall not be required to be connected to an onboard accessible route.

3.  Where vehicle lanes for trucks, buses or other high clearance vehicles divide a higher deck, other than entry decks, into two separate segments and no horizontal circulation is provided between these two segments, only one segment of the divided deck is required to be connected by an onboard accessible route.

4.  Decks below the bulkhead deck are not required to be connected to an onboard accessible route. 

5.  Where exceptions for alterations to qualified historic passenger vessels are permitted by V202.5, an onboard accessible route shall not be required between decks.

V206.2.1.1 Stairs and Escalators in Existing Passenger Vessels.  In alterations and additions, where an escalator or stair is provided where none existed previously and major structural modifications are necessary for the installation, at least one onboard accessible route shall be provided between the levels served by the escalator or stair unless exempted by V206.2.1 Exceptions 1 through 5.

V206.2.2 Spaces and Elements.  Within a deck, at least one onboard accessible route shall connect all accessible spaces and elements within the passenger vessel which are otherwise connected by a circulation path, unless exempted by V206.2.1 Exceptions 1 through 5. 

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In assembly areas with fixed seating required to comply with V221, an onboard accessible route shall not be required to serve fixed seating where wheelchair spaces required to be on an onboard accessible route are not provided.

2.  Onboard accessible routes shall not be required to connect mezzanines where passenger vessels have no more than one passenger deck.  In addition, onboard accessible routes shall not be required to connect decks or mezzanines where multi-deck passenger vessels are exempted by V206.2.1 Exceptions 1 through 5.

V206.2.3 Restaurants and Cafeterias.  In restaurants and cafeterias, at least one onboard accessible route shall be provided to all dining areas, including raised or sunken dining areas, and outdoor dining areas.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In passenger vessels not required to provide an onboard accessible route between decks, an onboard accessible route shall not be required to a mezzanine dining area where the mezzanine contains less than 25 percent of the total combined area for seating and dining and where the same decor and services are provided in the accessible area.

2.  In alterations, an onboard accessible route shall not be required to existing raised or sunken dining areas, or to all parts of existing outdoor dining areas where the same services and decor are provided in an accessible space usable by passengers and not restricted to use by people with disabilities.

V206.2.4 Performance Areas.  Where a circulation path directly connects a performance area to an assembly seating area, at least one onboard accessible route shall directly connect the assembly seating area with the performance area.

V206.2.5 Bowling Lanes.  Where bowling lanes are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one of each type of bowling lane, shall be on an onboard accessible route.

V206.2.6 Court Sports.  In court sports, at least one onboard accessible route shall directly connect both sides of the court.

V206.2.7 Exercise Machines and Equipment.  Exercise machines and equipment required to comply with V231 shall be on an onboard accessible route.

V206.2.8 Miniature Golf Facilities.  Holes required to comply with V239.2, including the start of play, shall be on an onboard accessible route.  Accessible routes serving miniature golf facilities shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified by V1003.2.

V206.2.9 Play Areas.  Play areas shall provide onboard accessible routes in accordance with V206.2.9.  Accessible routes serving play areas shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified by V1004.2.

V206.2.9.1 Ground Level and Elevated Play Components.  At least one onboard accessible route shall be provided within the play area.  The onboard accessible route shall connect ground level play components required to comply with V233.2.1 and elevated play components required to comply with V233.2.2, including entry and exit points of the play components.

V206.2.9.2 Soft Contained Play Structures.  Where three or fewer entry points are provided for soft contained play structures, at least one entry point shall be on an onboard accessible route.  Where four or more entry points are provided for soft contained play structures, at least two entry points shall be on an onboard accessible route.

V206.3 Location.  Onboard accessible routes shall coincide with or be located in the same area as general circulation paths.  Where circulation paths are interior, required onboard accessible routes shall also be interior.  An onboard accessible route connecting any two points within one or more accessible spaces shall not be more than 300 feet (91 m) longer than the shortest general circulation path connecting the same two points.

V206.4 Entry and Departure Points.  Each entry and departure point used by passengers shall be on an onboard accessible route.

V206.5 Doors, Doorways, and Gates.  Doors, doorways, and gates providing user passage shall be provided in accordance with V206.5.

V206.5.1 Deck Entry and Departure.  Where doors, doorways, or gates are provided at entry and departure points required to comply with V206.4, at least one door, doorway, or gate shall comply with V404.

V206.5.2 Rooms and Spaces.  Within a passenger vessel, at least one door, doorway, or gate serving each room or space complying with these requirements shall comply with V404.

V206.6 Elevators.  Elevators provided for passengers shall comply with V407.  Where multiple elevators are provided, each elevator shall comply with V407.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In a passenger vessel permitted to use the exceptions to V206.2.1 or permitted by V206.7 to use a platform lift, elevators complying with V408 shall be permitted.

2.  In passenger vessels less than 10,000 ITC tons, elevators complying with V408 shall be permitted.

V206.6.1 Existing Elevators.  Where elements of existing elevators are altered, the same element shall also be altered in all elevators that are programmed to respond to the same hall call control as the altered elevator and shall comply with the requirements of V407 or V408 for the altered element.

V206.7 Platform Lifts.  Platform lifts shall comply with V409.  Platform lifts shall be permitted as a component of an onboard accessible route in new construction in accordance with V206.7.  Platform lifts shall be permitted as a component of an onboard accessible route in an existing passenger vessel.

V206.7.1 Performance Areas and Speakers’ Platforms.  Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide onboard accessible routes to performance areas and speakers’ platforms.

V206.7.2 Wheelchair Spaces.  Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an onboard accessible route to comply with the wheelchair space dispersion and line-of-sight requirements of V221 and V802.

V206.7.3 Vertical Clearance Constraints.  Platform lifts shall be permitted where vertical clearance constraints on a route a passenger vessel operates makes the use of an elevator infeasible.

V206.7.4 Passenger Guest Rooms.  Platform lifts shall be permitted to connect levels within guest rooms required to provide mobility features complying with V806.2.

V206.7.5 Decks Less Than 3000 Square Feet.  Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide an onboard accessible route to decks which are less than 3000 square feet (279 m²).

V206.7.6 Play Areas.  Platform lifts shall be permitted to provide onboard accessible routes to play components or soft contained play structures.

V206.8 Security Barriers.  Security barriers, including but not limited to, security bollards and security check points, shall not obstruct a required onboard accessible route or accessible means of escape.

EXCEPTION:  Where security barriers incorporate elements that cannot comply with these requirements such as certain metal detectors, fluoroscopes, or other similar devices, the onboard accessible route shall be permitted to be located adjacent to security screening devices.  The onboard accessible route shall permit persons with disabilities passing around security barriers to maintain visual contact with their personal items to the same extent provided others passing through the security barrier.

V207 Accessible Means of Escape

V207.1 General.  Accessible means of escape shall be provided in accordance with V207 and shall comply with V410.

EXCEPTION:  Accessible means of escape are not required in alterations to existing passenger vessels.

V207.2 Number Required.  Where the administrative authority requires one means of escape from an accessible space, at least one accessible means of escape shall be provided.  Where more than one means of escape is required by the administrative authority from any accessible space, each accessible portion of the space shall be served by at least two accessible means of escape. 

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where a required means of escape is permitted by the administrative authority to include a ladder, window, or deck scuttle, the corresponding accessible means of escape is not required.

2.  Where means of escape are permitted by the administrative authority to share a common path of escape travel, the corresponding accessible means of escape shall be permitted to share a common path of escape travel.

V207.3 Elevators.  Where at least one accessible means of escape from any accessible deck travels vertically four or more decks, at least one accessible means of escape from each passenger deck shall contain an elevator complying with V206.6 and V410.3.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In vessels protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with SOLAS II-2 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1) or NFPA 13 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1), the elevator required by this section is not required to connect decks (1) located above the highest deck containing evacuation stations, and (2) that have at least two main vertical zones complying with requirements established by the administrative authority.

2.  In vessels protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with SOLAS II-2 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1) or NFPA 13 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1), the elevator shall not be required to those decks connected by a ramp complying with V405.

3.  Where vertical access is not required by the exceptions under V206.2.1, this section does not apply.

V208 Passenger Vessel Boarding. 

V208.1 General.  At least one passenger boarding system complying with V412 shall connect an entry deck to fixed piers, floating piers, or land.

EXCEPTION:  Where a boarding system complying with V412 is provided on a pier, a vessel carried boarding system is not required. 

V209 Stairways

V209.1 General.  Interior and exterior stairs connecting levels not connected by an onboard accessible route shall comply with V502.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In assembly areas, aisle stairs shall not be required to comply with V502.

2.  Stairs that connect play components shall not be required to comply with V502.

 

 

V210 Rinsing Showers

V210.1 General.  Where rinsing showers are provided at a location, at least one shall comply with V608.

V211 Drinking Fountains

V211.1 General.  Where drinking fountains are provided on a deck and within a detention facility, they shall be provided in accordance with V211.

EXCEPTION:  In detention facilities, drinking fountains only serving cells not required to comply with V230 shall not be required to comply with V211.

V211.2 Minimum Number.  No fewer than two drinking fountains shall be provided.  One drinking fountain shall comply with V602.1 through V602.6 and one drinking fountain shall comply with V602.7.

EXCEPTION:  Where a single drinking fountain complies with V602.1 through V602.6 and V602.7 it shall be permitted to be substituted for two separate drinking fountains. 

V211.3 More Than Minimum Number.  Where more than the minimum number of drinking fountains specified in V211.2 are provided, 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall comply with V602.1 through V602.6 and 50 percent of the total number of drinking fountains provided shall comply with V602.7.

EXCEPTION:  Where 50 percent of the drinking fountains yields a fraction, 50 percent shall be permitted to be rounded up or down provided that the total number of drinking fountains complying with V211 equals 100 percent of drinking fountains.

V212 Kitchens, Kitchenettes, and Sinks

V212.1 General.  Where provided, kitchens, kitchenettes, and sinks shall comply with V212.1.

V212.2 Kitchens and Kitchenettes.  Kitchens and kitchenettes shall comply with V804.

V212.3 Sinks.  Where sinks are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type provided in each accessible room or space shall comply with V606.

EXCEPTION:  Mop or service sinks shall not be required to comply with V212.3.

V213 Toilet Facilities and Bathing Facilities

V213.1 General.  Where toilet facilities and bathing facilities are provided, they shall comply with V213.

V213.2 Toilet Rooms and Bathing Rooms.  Where toilet rooms are provided, each toilet room shall comply with V603.  Where bathing rooms are provided, each bathing room shall comply with V603.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In alterations where it is technically infeasible to comply with V603, altering existing toilet or bathing rooms shall not be required where a single unisex toilet room or bathing room complying with V213.2.1 is provided and located in the same area and on the same deck as existing inaccessible toilet or bathing rooms.

2.  Where exceptions for alterations to qualified historic passenger vessels are permitted by V202.5, no fewer than one toilet room for each sex complying with V603 or one unisex toilet room complying with V213.2.1 shall be provided.

3.  Where multiple single user portable toilet or bathing units are clustered at a single location, no more than 5 percent of the toilet units and bathing units at each cluster shall be required to comply with V603.  Portable toilet units and bathing units complying with V603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1.

4.  Where multiple single user toilet rooms are clustered at a single location, no more than 50 percent of the single user toilet rooms for each use at each cluster shall be required to comply with V603.

V213.2.1 Unisex (Single-Use or Family) Toilet and Unisex Bathing Rooms.  Unisex toilet rooms shall contain not more than one lavatory, and two water closets without urinals or one water closet and one urinal.  Unisex bathing rooms shall contain one shower or one shower and one bathtub, one lavatory, and one water closet.  Doors to unisex toilet rooms and unisex bathing rooms shall have privacy latches.

V213.3 Plumbing Fixtures and Accessories.  Plumbing fixtures and accessories provided in a toilet room or bathing room required to comply with V213.2 shall comply with V213.3.

V213.3.1 Toilet Compartments (Stalls).  Where toilet compartments are provided, at least one toilet compartment shall comply with V604.8.1.  In addition to the compartment required to comply with V604.8.1, at least one compartment shall comply with V604.8.2 where six or more toilet compartments are provided, or where the combination of urinals and water closets totals six or more fixtures.

V213.3.2 Water Closets.  Where water closets are provided, at least one shall comply with V604.

V213.3.3 Urinals.  Where more than one urinal is provided, at least one shall comply with V605.

V213.3.4 Lavatories.  Where lavatories are provided, at least one shall comply with V606 and shall not be located in a toilet compartment.

V213.3.5 Mirrors.  Where mirrors are provided, at least one shall comply with V603.3.

V213.3.6 Bathing Facilities.  Where bathtubs or showers are provided, at least one bathtub complying with V607 or at least one shower complying with V608 shall be provided.

V213.3.7 Coat Hooks and Shelves.  Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in toilet rooms without toilet compartments, at least one of each type shall comply with V603.4.  Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in toilet compartments, at least one of each type complying with V604.8.3 shall be provided in toilet compartments required to comply with V213.3.1.  Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in bathing facilities, at least one of each type complying with V603.4 shall serve fixtures required to comply with V213.3.6.

V214 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers

V214.1 General.  Where provided, washing machines and clothes dryers shall comply with V214.

V214.2 Washing Machines.  Where three or fewer washing machines are provided, at least one shall comply with V611.  Where more than three washing machines are provided, at least two shall comply with V611.

V214.3 Clothes Dryers.  Where three or fewer clothes dryers are provided, at least one shall comply with V611.  Where more than three clothes dryers are provided, at least two shall comply with V611.

V215 Emergency Alarm Systems

V215.1 General.  Where emergency alarm systems provide audible alarm coverage to alert passengers, alarms shall comply with V215.

EXCEPTION:  In existing passenger vessels, visible alarms shall not be required except where an existing alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new alarm system is installed.

V215.2 Public Areas.  Alarms in public areas shall comply with V702.

V215.3 Guest Rooms.  Guest rooms required to comply with V224.4 shall provide alarms complying with V702.

V216 Signs

V216.1 General.  Signs shall be provided in accordance with V216 and shall comply with V703.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Vessel directories, menus, seat and row designations in assembly areas, occupant names, vessel names, and company names and logos shall not be required to comply with V216.

2.  In parking facilities, signs shall not be required to comply with V216.2, V216.3, and V216.6 through V216.9.

3.  Temporary, 7 days or less, signs shall not be required to comply with V216.

V216.2 Designations.  Interior and exterior signs identifying permanent rooms and spaces shall comply with V703.1, V703.2, and V703.5.  Where pictograms are provided as designations of permanent interior rooms and spaces, the pictograms shall comply with V703.6 and shall have text descriptors complying with V703.2 and V703.5.

EXCEPTION:  Exterior signs that are not located at the door to the space they serve shall not be required to comply with V703.2.

V216.3 Directional and Informational Signs.  Signs that provide direction to or information about spaces and facilities of the passenger vessel shall comply with V703.5.

V216.4 Means of Escape.  Signs for means of escape shall comply with V216.4.

V216.4.1 Exit Doors.  Exit doors identified with illuminated exit signs shall be identified by tactile signs complying with V703.1, V703.2, and V703.5.

V216.4.2 Areas of Temporary Refuge.  Areas of temporary refuge shall comply with V216.4.2.

V216.4.2.1 Identification.  Each door providing access to an area of temporary refuge from an adjacent deck area shall be identified by a sign complying with V703.5, stating “AREA OF TEMPORARY REFUGE”, and the sign shall include the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1.  Where exit sign illumination is required by the administrative authority, the area of temporary refuge sign shall be illuminated.  Additionally, a tactile sign complying with V703.2 shall be located at each door to an area of temporary refuge.

V216.4.2.2 Instructions.  In each area of temporary refuge provided with a two-way communication system, instructional signage on the use of the area under emergency conditions shall be posted under the communications system and shall comply with V703.5.  The instructions shall include all of the following:

1.  Directions to other accessible means of escape;

2.  Directions that persons able to use the stairways do so as soon as possible unless they are assisting others;

3.  Information on planned availability of assistance in the use of stairs or supervised operation of elevators and how to summon such assistance; and

4.  Directions for use of emergency communications system.

V216.4.3 Directional Signs.  At exit doors and elevators serving an accessible space but not serving as an accessible means of escape, signage complying with V703.5 shall be provided indicating the location of the nearest accessible means of escape.

V216.5 Exterior Doors.  Where not all exterior public doors comply with V404, public doors complying with V404 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1.  Directional signs complying with V703.5 that indicate the location of the nearest public door complying with V404 shall be provided at exterior public doors that do not comply with V404.

V216.6 Elevators.  Where existing elevators do not comply with V407, elevators complying with V407 shall be clearly identified with the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1.

V216.7 Toilet Rooms and Bathing Rooms.  Where existing toilet rooms or bathing rooms do not comply with V603, directional signs indicating the location of the nearest toilet room or bathing room complying with V603 within the facility shall be provided.  Signs shall comply with V703.5 and shall include the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1.  Where existing toilet rooms or bathing rooms do not comply with V603, the toilet rooms or bathing rooms complying with V603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1.  Where clustered single user toilet rooms or bathing facilities are permitted to use V213.2 Exceptions 3 or 4, toilet rooms or bathing facilities complying with V603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1 unless all toilet rooms and bathing facilities comply with V603.

V216.8 Assistive Listening Systems.  Each assembly area and public seating area required by V219 to provide assistive listening systems shall provide signs informing patrons of the availability of the assistive listening system.  Assistive listening signs shall comply with V703.5 and shall include the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss complying with V703.7.2.2.

EXCEPTION:  Where ticket offices or windows are provided, signs shall not be required at each assembly area provided that signs are displayed at each ticket office or window informing patrons of the availability of assistive listening systems.

V216.9 Check-Out Aisles.  Where more than one check-out aisle is provided, check-out aisles complying with V904.3 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with V703.7.2.1.  Where check-out aisles are identified by numbers, letters, or functions, signs identifying check-out aisles complying with V904.3 shall be located in the same location as the check-out aisle identification.

EXCEPTION:  Where all check-out aisles serving a single function comply with V904.3, signs complying with V703.7.2.1 shall not be required.

V217 Telephones

V217.1 General.  Where coin-operated pay telephones, coinless pay telephones, closed-circuit telephones, courtesy telephones, or other types of public telephones are provided, public telephones shall be provided in accordance with V217 for each type of public telephone provided. 

V217.2 Minimum Number.  No fewer than two public telephones shall be provided at each location containing telephones.  At least one shall be a wheelchair accessible public telephone complying with V704.2 and at least one shall be a public TTY complying with V704.4.

V217.3 Volume Controls.  All public telephones shall have volume controls complying with V704.3.

V218 Two-Way Communication Systems

V218.1 General.  Where a two-way communication system is provided to gain admittance to a passenger vessel or to restricted areas open to passengers within a passenger vessel, the system shall comply with V705.

V219 Assistive Listening Systems

V219.1 General.  Assistive listening systems shall be provided in accordance with V219 and shall comply with V706.

V219.2 Required Systems.  In each assembly area and public seating area where audible communication is integral to the use of the space, an assistive listening system shall be provided.

EXCEPTION:  Assistive listening systems shall not be required where audio amplification is not provided.

V219.3 Receivers.  Receivers complying with V706.3 shall be provided for assistive listening systems in assembly areas and public seating areas in accordance with Table V219.3 and calculated according to the total number of seats in the vessel required to comply with V219.2.  Twenty-five percent minimum of receivers provided, but no fewer than two, shall be hearing-aid compatible in accordance with V706.4.

EXCEPTION:  Where all seats in an assembly area or public seating area are served by an induction loop assistive listening system, the minimum number of receivers required by Table V219.3 to be hearing-aid compatible shall not be required to be provided.

Table V219.3 Receivers for Assistive Listening Systems (text version)

^{1.  or fraction thereof}

 

 

V220 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines

V220.1 General.  Where automatic teller machines or self-service fare vending, collection, or adjustment machines are provided, at least one of each type provided at each location shall comply with V707.  Where bins are provided for envelopes, waste paper, or other purposes, at least one of each type shall comply with V808.

V221 Assembly Areas and Public Seating Areas

V221.1 General.  Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated aisle seats complying with V221 and V802.  Public seating areas shall provide wheelchair spaces and companion seats complying with V221 and V802.

V221.2 Wheelchair Spaces.  Wheelchair spaces complying with V221.2 shall be provided in assembly areas and public seating areas with fixed seating.

V221.2.1 Number.  The number of wheelchair spaces shall be provided in accordance with V221.2.1.

V221.2.1.1 Assembly Areas.  Wheelchair spaces shall be provided in each assembly area in accordance with Table V221.2.1.1.

V221.2.1.2 Public Seating Areas.  The number of wheelchair spaces for public seating areas shall be calculated according to the total number of fixed seats provided in public seating areas of the passenger vessel in accordance with Table V221.2.1.1.

 Table V221.2.1.1 Number of Wheelchair Spaces

 

V221.2.2 Integration.  Wheelchair spaces shall be an integral part of the seating plan.

V221.2.3 Lines of Sight and Dispersion in Assembly Areas.  Wheelchair spaces in assembly areas shall provide lines of sight complying with V802.2 and shall comply with V221.2.3.  In providing lines of sight, wheelchair spaces shall be dispersed.  Wheelchair spaces shall provide spectators with choices of seating locations and viewing angles that are substantially equivalent to, or better than, the choices of seating locations and viewing angles available to all other spectators.  When the number of wheelchair spaces required by V221.2.1 has been met, further dispersion shall not be required. 

V221.2.3.1 Horizontal Dispersion.  Wheelchair spaces shall be dispersed horizontally.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Horizontal dispersion shall not be required in assembly areas with 300 or fewer seats if the companion seats required by V221.3 and wheelchair spaces are located within the 2^nd or 3^rd quartile of the total row length.  Intermediate aisles shall be included in determining the total row length.  If the row length in the 2^nd and 3^rd quartile of a row is insufficient to accommodate the required number of companion seats and wheelchair spaces, the additional companion seats and wheelchair spaces shall be permitted to be located in the 1^st and 4^th quartile of the row.

2.  In row seating, two wheelchair spaces shall be permitted to be located side-by-side.

V221.2.3.2 Vertical Dispersion.  Wheelchair spaces shall be dispersed vertically at varying distances from the screen, performance area, or playing field.  In addition, wheelchair spaces shall be located in each balcony or mezzanine that is located on an onboard accessible route.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Vertical dispersion shall not be required in assembly areas with 300 or fewer seats if the wheelchair spaces provide viewing angles that are equivalent to, or better than, the average viewing angle provided in the facility.

2.  In bleachers, wheelchair spaces shall not be required to be provided in rows other than rows at points of entry to bleacher seating.

V221.2.4 Dispersion in Public Seating Areas.  Wheelchair spaces in public seating areas shall be dispersed throughout the public seating areas that are located on levels of the passenger vessel that are on the decks complying with V201.4.  When the number of wheelchair spaces required by V221.2.1 has been met, further dispersion shall not be required.

V221.3 Companion Seats.  At least one companion seat complying with V802.3 shall be provided for each wheelchair space required by V221.2.1.

V221.4 Designated Aisle Seats in Assembly Areas.  In assembly areas, at least 5 percent of the total number of aisle seats provided shall comply with V802.4 and shall be the aisle seats located closest to onboard accessible routes.

V222 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms

V222.1 General.  Where dressing rooms, fitting rooms, or locker rooms are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type of use in each cluster provided shall comply with V803.

EXCEPTION:  In alterations, where it is technically infeasible to provide rooms in accordance with V222.1, one room for each sex on each level shall comply with V803.  Where only unisex rooms are provided, unisex rooms shall be permitted.

V222.2 Coat Hooks and Shelves.  Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in dressing, fitting or locker rooms without individual compartments, at least one of each type shall comply with V803.5.  Where coat hooks or shelves are provided in individual compartments at least one of each type complying with V803.5 shall be provided in individual compartments in dressing, fitting, or locker rooms required to comply with V222.1.

V223 Medical Care Facilities

V223.1 General.  Where patient sleeping rooms are provided in medical care facilities, at least 10 percent, but no fewer than one, of the patient sleeping rooms shall comply with V805.

EXCEPTION:  Toilet rooms that are part of critical or intensive care patient sleeping rooms shall not be required to comply with V603.

V223.1.1 Alterations.  Where sleeping rooms are altered or added, the requirements of V223 shall apply only to the sleeping rooms being altered or added until the number of sleeping rooms complies with the minimum number required for new construction.

V224 Passenger Guest Rooms

V224.1 General.  Passenger vessels shall provide guest rooms in accordance with V224.

V224.1.1 Alterations.  Where guest rooms are altered or added, the requirements of V224 shall apply only to the guest rooms being altered or added until the number of guest rooms complies with the minimum number required for new construction.

V 224.2 Guest Rooms with Mobility Features.  Guest rooms with mobility features complying with V806.2 shall be provided in accordance with Table V224.2.

Table V224.2 Guest Rooms with Mobility Features (text version)

V224.3 Beds.  In guest rooms having more than 25 beds, 5 percent minimum of the beds shall have clear deck space complying with V806.2.3.

V224.4 Communication Features.  G uest rooms with communication features complying with V806.3 shall be provided in accordance with Table V224.4.

Table V224.4 Guest Rooms with Communication Features

V224.5 Dispersion.  Guest rooms required to provide mobility features complying with V806.2 and guest rooms required to provide communication features complying with V806.3 shall be dispersed among the various classes of guest rooms, and shall provide choices of types of guest rooms, number of beds, and other amenities comparable to the choices provided to other guests.  Where the minimum number of guest rooms required to comply with V806 is not sufficient to allow for complete dispersion, guest rooms shall be dispersed in the following priority: guest room type, number of beds, and amenities.  At least one guest room required to provide mobility features complying with V806.2 shall also provide communication features complying with V806.3.  Not more than 10 percent of guest rooms required to provide mobility features complying with V806.2 shall be used to satisfy the minimum number of guest rooms required to provide communication features complying with V806.3.

V224.6 Location.  Guest rooms required to comply with V806.2 shall be provided on the decks complying with V201.4.

V225 Storage

V225.1 General.  Storage facilities shall comply with V225.

V225.2 Storage.  Where storage is provided in accessible spaces, at least one of each type shall comply with V808.

V225.2.1 Lockers.  Where lockers are provided, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type, shall comply with V808.

V225.2.2 Self-Service Shelving.  Self-service shelves shall be located on an onboard accessible route complying with V402.  Self-service shelving shall not be required to comply with V308. 

V226 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces

V226.1 General.  Where dining surfaces are provided for the consumption of food or drink, at least 5 percent of the seating spaces and standing spaces at the dining surfaces shall comply with V902.  In addition, where work surfaces are provided for use by other than employees, at least 5 percent shall comply with V902.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Sales counters and service counters shall not be required to comply with V902.

2.  Check writing surfaces provided at check-out aisles not required to comply with V904.3 shall not be required to comply with V902.

V226.2 Dispersion.  Dining surfaces and work surfaces required to comply with V902 shall be dispersed throughout the space or facility containing dining surfaces and work surfaces.

V227 Sales and Service

V227.1 General.  Where provided, check-out aisles, sales counters, service counters, food service lines, queues, and waiting lines shall comply with V227 and V904.

V227.2 Check-Out Aisles.  Where check-out aisles are provided, check-out aisles complying with V904.3 shall be provided in accordance with Table V227.2.  Where check-out aisles serve different functions, check-out aisles complying with V904.3 shall be provided in accordance with Table V227.2 for each function.  Where check-out aisles are dispersed throughout the passenger vessel or facility, check-out aisles complying with V904.3 shall be dispersed.

EXCEPTION:  Where the selling space is under 5000 square feet (465 m²) no more than one check-out aisle complying with V904.3 shall be required.

Table V227.2 Accessible Check-Out Aisles

V227.2.1 Altered Check-Out Aisles.  Where check-out aisles are altered, at least one of each check-out aisle serving each function shall comply with V904.3 until the number of check-out aisles complies with V227.2.

V227.3 Counters.  Where provided, at least one of each type of sales counter and service counter shall comply with V904.4.  Where counters are dispersed throughout the facility, counters complying with V904.4 also shall be dispersed.

V227.4 Food Service Lines.  Food service lines shall comply with V904.5.  Where self-service shelves are provided, at least 50 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type provided shall comply with V308.

V227.5 Queues and Waiting Lines.  Queues and waiting lines servicing counters or check-out aisles required to comply with V904.3 or V904.4 shall comply with V403.

V228 Depositories, Vending Machines, Change Machines, and Mail Boxes

V228.1 General.  Where provided, at least one of each type of depository, vending machine, and change machine shall comply with V309.

V228.2 Mail Boxes.  Where mail boxes are provided in an interior location, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type shall comply with V309.

V229 Windows

V 229.1 General.  Where glazed openings are provided in accessible rooms or spaces for operation by passengers, at least one opening shall comply with V309.  Each glazed opening required by an administrative authority to be operable shall comply with V309.

EXCEPTION:   Glazed openings in guest rooms required to provide communication features shall not be required to comply with V229.

 

V230 Detention Facilities

V230.1 General.  Detention facilities shall comply with V230.

V230.2 Cells.  Cells shall be provided in accordance with V230.2.

V230.2.1 Cells with Mobility Features.  At least one cell shall provide mobility features complying with V807.2.

V230.2.2 Cells with Communication Features.  At least one cell equipped with audible emergency alarm systems and permanently installed telephones within the cell shall provide communication features complying with V807.3.

V231 Exercise Machines and Equipment

V231.1 General.  At least one of each type of exercise machine and equipment shall comply with V1002.

V232 Miniature Golf Facilities

V232.1 General.  Miniature golf facilities shall comply with V232.

V232.2 Minimum Number.  At least 50 percent of holes on miniature golf courses shall comply with V1003.3.

V232.3 Miniature Golf Course Configuration.  Miniature golf courses shall be configured so that the holes complying with V1003.3 are consecutive.  Miniature golf courses shall provide an onboard accessible route from the last hole complying with V1003.3 to the course entrance or exit without requiring travel through any other holes on the course.

EXCEPTION:  One break in the sequence of consecutive holes shall be permitted provided that the last hole on the miniature golf course is the last hole in the sequence.

V233 Play Areas

V233.1 General.  Play areas for children ages 2 and over shall comply with V233.  Where separate play areas are provided within a site for specific age groups, each play area shall comply with V233.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In existing play areas, where play components are relocated for the purposes of creating safe use zones and the ground surface is not altered or extended for more than one use zone, the play area shall not be required to comply with V233.

2.  Where play components are altered and the ground surface is not altered, the ground surface shall not be required to comply with V1004.2.6 unless required by V202.4.

V233.2 Play Components.  Where provided, play components shall comply with V233.2 and V1004.

 V233.2.1 Ground Level Play Components.  Ground level play components shall be provided in the number and types required by V233.2.1.  Ground level play components that are provided to comply with V233.2.1.1 shall be permitted to satisfy the additional number required by V233.2.1.2 if the minimum required types of play components are satisfied.  Where two or more required ground level play components are provided, they shall be dispersed throughout the play area and integrated with other play components.

V233.2.1.1 Minimum Number and Types.  Where ground level play components are provided, at least one of each type shall be on an onboard accessible route and shall comply with V1004.4.

V233.2.1.2 Additional Number and Types.  Where elevated play components are provided, ground level play components shall be provided in accordance with Table V233.2.1.2 and shall comply with V1004.4.

EXCEPTION:  If at least 50 percent of the elevated play components are connected by a ramp and at least 3 of the elevated play components connected by the ramp are different types of play components, the play area shall not be required to comply with V233.2.1.2.

 Table V233.2.1.2  Number and Types of Ground Level Play Components Required to be on an Onboard Accessible Route (text version)

V233.2.2 Elevated Play Components.  Where elevated play components are provided, at least 50 percent shall be on an onboard accessible route and shall comply with V1004.4.

V234 Saunas and Steam Rooms. 

V234.1 General.  Where provided, saunas and steam rooms shall comply with V612.

EXCEPTION:  Where saunas or steam rooms are clustered at a single location, no more than 5 percent of the saunas and steam rooms, but no fewer than one, of each type in each cluster shall be required to comply with V612.

V235 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas

V235.1 General.  Swimming pools, wading pools, and spas shall comply with V235.

V235.2 Swimming Pools.  At least two accessible means of entry shall be provided for swimming pools.  Accessible means of entry shall be swimming pool lifts complying with V1005.2; sloped entries complying with V1005.3; transfer walls complying with V1005.4; transfer systems complying with V1005.5; and pool stairs complying with V1005.6.  At least one accessible means of entry provided shall comply with V1005.2 or V1005.3.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where a swimming pool has less than 300 linear feet (91 m) of swimming pool wall, no more than one accessible means of entry shall be required provided that the accessible means of entry is a swimming pool lift complying with V1005.2 or sloped entry complying with V1005.3.

2.  Pools where user access is limited to one area shall not be required to provide more than one accessible means of entry provided that the accessible means of entry is a swimming pool lift complying with V1005.2, a sloped entry complying with V1005.3, or a transfer system complying with V1005.5.

3.  Catch pools shall not be required to provide an accessible means of entry provided that the catch pool edge is on an onboard accessible route.

4.  Where swimming pools are provided in a cluster, only one pool in the cluster is required to have an accessible means of entry consisting of a swimming pool lift complying with V1005.2 or a sloped entry complying with V1005.3.

V235.3 Wading Pools.  At least one accessible means of entry shall be provided for wading pools.  Accessible means of entry shall comply with sloped entries complying with V1005.3 or transfer systems complying with V1005.5.

V235.4 Spas.  At least one accessible means of entry shall be provided for spas.  Accessible means of entry shall comply with swimming pool lifts complying with V1005.2; transfer walls complying with V1005.4; or transfer systems complying with V1005.5.

EXCEPTION:  Where spas are provided in a cluster, no more than 5 percent, but no fewer than one, spa in each cluster shall be required to comply with V235.4.

V236 Shooting Facilities

V236.1 General.  Where shooting facilities with firing positions are designed and constructed at a site, at least 5 percent, but no fewer than one, of each type of firing position shall comply with V1006.

 

CHAPTER 3: BUILDING BLOCKS

V301 General

V301.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 3 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V302 Deck Surfaces

V302.1 General.  Deck surfaces shall be stable, firm, and slip resistant and shall comply with V302.

EXCEPTIONS:  Areas of sport activity shall not be required to comply with V302.

V302.2 Carpet.  Carpet or carpet tile shall be securely attached and shall have a firm cushion, pad, or backing or no cushion or pad.  Carpet or carpet tile shall have a level loop, textured loop, level cut pile, or level cut/uncut pile texture.  Pile height shall be ½ inch (13 mm) maximum.  Exposed edges of carpet shall be fastened to deck surfaces and shall have trim on the entire length of the exposed edge.  Carpet edge trim shall comply with V303.

V302.3 Openings.  Openings in deck surfaces shall not allow passage of a sphere more than ½ inch (13 mm) diameter except as allowed in V407.4.3 and V409.4.  Elongated openings shall be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the dominant direction of travel.

EXCEPTION:  This requirement does not apply to vehicle tie-downs which are flush with the deck surface and are not located within an accessible route.

V303 Changes in Level

V303.1 General.  Where changes in level are permitted in deck surfaces, they shall comply with V303.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Areas of sport activity shall not be required to comply with V303.

2.  This requirement does not apply to vehicle tie-downs which are flush with the deck surface and are not located within an accessible route.

V303.2 Vertical.  Changes in level of ¼ inch (6.4 mm) high maximum shall be permitted to be vertical.

V303.3 Beveled.  Changes in level between ¼ inch (6.4 mm) high minimum and ½ inch (13 mm) high maximum shall be beveled with a slope not steeper than 1:2.

V303.4 Ramps.  Changes in level greater than ½ inch (13 mm) high shall be ramped, and shall comply with V405 or V406.

V304 Turning Space

V304.1 General.  Turning space shall comply with V304.

V304.2 Deck Surfaces.  Deck surfaces of a turning space shall comply with V302.  Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION:  Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

V304.3 Size.  Turning space shall comply with V304.3.1 or V304.3.2.

V304.3.1 Circular Space.  The turning space shall be a space of 60 inches (1525 mm) diameter minimum.  The space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with V306.

V304.3.2 T-Shaped Space.  The turning space shall be a T-shaped space within a 60 inch (1525 mm) square minimum with arms and base 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.  Each arm of the T shall be clear of obstructions 12 inches (305 mm) minimum in each direction and the base shall be clear of obstructions 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.  The space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with V306 only at the end of either the base or one arm.

V304.4 Door Swing.  Doors shall be permitted to swing into turning spaces.

V305 Clear Deck Space

V305.1 General.  Clear deck space shall comply with V305.

V305.2 Deck Surfaces.  Deck surfaces of a clear deck space shall comply with V302.  Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION:  Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

V305.3 Size.  The clear deck space shall be 30 inches (760 mm) minimum by 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum.

V305.4 Knee and Toe Clearance.  Unless otherwise specified, clear deck space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with V306.

V305.5 Position.  Unless otherwise specified, clear deck space shall be positioned for either forward or parallel approach to an element.

V305.6 Approach.  One full unobstructed side of the clear deck space shall adjoin an accessible route or adjoin another clear deck space.

V305.7 Maneuvering Clearance.  Where a clear deck space is located in an alcove or otherwise confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering clearance shall be provided in accordance with V305.7.1 and V305.7.2.

V305.7.1 Forward Approach.  Alcoves shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum where the depth exceeds 24 inches (610 mm).

V305.7.2 Parallel Approach.  Alcoves shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum where the depth exceeds 15 inches (380 mm).

V306 Knee and Toe Clearance

V306.1 General.  Where space beneath an element is included as part of clear deck space or turning space, the space shall comply with V306.  Additional space shall not be prohibited beneath an element but shall not be considered as part of the clear deck space or turning space.

V306.2 Toe Clearance.

V306.2.1 General.  Space under an element between the finish deck surface and 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish deck surface shall be considered toe clearance and shall comply with V306.2.

V306.2.2 Maximum Depth.  Toe clearance shall extend 25 inches (635 mm) maximum under an element.

V306.2.3 Minimum Required Depth.  Where toe clearance is required at an element as part of a clear deck space, the toe clearance shall extend 17 inches (430 mm) minimum under the element.

V306.2.4 Additional Clearance.  Space extending greater than 6 inches (150 mm) beyond the available knee clearance at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish deck surface shall not be considered toe clearance.

V306.2.5 Width.  Toe clearance shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum.

V306.3 Knee Clearance.

V306.3.1 General.  Space under an element between 9 inches (230 mm) and 27 inches (685 mm) above the finish deck surface shall be considered knee clearance and shall comply with V306.3.

V306.3.2 Maximum Depth.  Knee clearance shall extend 25 inches (635 mm) maximum under an element at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish deck surface.

V306.3.3 Minimum Required Depth.  Where knee clearance is required under an element as part of a clear deck space, the knee clearance shall be 11 inches (280 mm) deep minimum at 9 inches (230 mm) above the finish deck surface, and 8 inches (205 mm) deep minimum at 27 inches (685 mm) above the finish deck surface.

V306.3.4 Clearance Reduction.  Between 9 inches (230 mm) and 27 inches (685 mm) above the finish deck surface, the knee clearance shall be permitted to reduce at a rate of 1 inch (25 mm) in depth for each 6 inches (150 mm) in height.

V306.3.5 Width.  Knee clearance shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum.

V307 Protruding Objects

V307.1 General.  Protruding objects shall comply with V307.

V307.2 Protrusion Limits.  Objects with leading edges more than 27 inches (685 mm) and not more than 80 inches (2030 mm) above the finish deck surface shall protrude 4 inches (100 mm) maximum horizontally into the circulation path.

EXCEPTION:  Handrails shall be permitted to protrude 4½ inches (115 mm) maximum.

V307.3 Required Clear Width.  Protruding objects shall not reduce the clear width required for accessible routes.

V307.4 Vertical Clearance.  Vertical clearance shall be 80 inches (2030 mm) high minimum.  Guardrails or other barriers shall be provided where the vertical clearance is less than 80 inches (2030 mm) high.  The leading edge of such guardrail or barrier shall be located 27 inches (685 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface.

2.  Where doors are required by the administrative authority to have coamings, measurements are permitted to be taken from the finish deck surface adjacent to the coamings and not the top of the coamings.

V308 Reach Ranges

V308.1 General.  Reach ranges shall comply with V308.

V308.2 Forward Reach.

V308.2.1 Unobstructed.  Where a forward reach is unobstructed, the high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low forward reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface.

V308.2.2 Obstructed High Reach.  Where a high forward reach is over an obstruction, the clear deck space shall extend beneath the element for a distance not less than the required reach depth over the obstruction.  The high forward reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum where the reach depth is 20 inches (510 mm) maximum.  Where the reach depth exceeds 20 inches (510 mm), the high forward reach shall be 44 inches (1120 mm) maximum and the reach depth shall be 25 inches (635 mm) maximum.

V308.3 Side Reach.

V308.3.1 Unobstructed.  Where a clear deck space allows a parallel approach to an element and the side reach is unobstructed, the high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum and the low side reach shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface.

EXCEPTION:  An obstruction shall be permitted between the clear deck space and the element where the depth of the obstruction is 10 inches (255 mm) maximum.

V308.3.2 Obstructed High Reach.  Where a clear deck space allows a parallel approach to an element and the high side reach is over an obstruction, the height of the obstruction shall be 34 inches (865 mm) maximum and the depth of the obstruction shall be 24 inches (610 mm) maximum.  The high side reach shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum for a reach depth of 10 inches (255 mm) maximum.  Where the reach depth exceeds 10 inches (255 mm), the high side reach shall be 46 inches (1170 mm) maximum for a reach depth of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum.

EXCEPTION:  The top of washing machines and clothes dryers shall be permitted to be 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V309 Operable Parts

V309.1 General.  Operable parts shall comply with V309.

V309.2 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided.

V309.3 Height.  Operable parts shall be placed within one or more of the reach ranges specified in V308.

V309.4 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 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.
 

 

CHAPTER 4: ACCESSIBLE ROUTES, ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF ESCAPE, AND ACCESSIBLE PASSENGER BOARDING SYSTEMS

V401 General

V401.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 4 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V402 Accessible Routes

V402.1 General.  Accessible routes shall comply with V402.

V402.2 Components.  Accessible routes shall consist of one or more of the following components:  walking surfaces with a running slope not steeper than 1:20, doorways, ramps, curb ramps excluding the flared sides, elevators, and platform lifts.  All components of an accessible route shall comply with the applicable requirements of Chapter 4.

V403 Walking Surfaces

V403.1 General.  Walking surfaces that are a part of an accessible route shall comply with V403.

V403.2 Deck Surface.  Deck surfaces shall comply with V302.

V403.3 Slope.  The running slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:20.  The cross slope of walking surfaces shall not be steeper than 1:48.

V403.4 Changes in Level.  Changes in level shall comply with V303.

V403.5 Clearances.  Walking surfaces shall provide clearances complying with V403.5.

V403.5.1 Clear Width.  Except as provided in V403.5.2 and V403.5.3, the clear width of walking surfaces shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  The clear width shall be permitted to be reduced to 32 inches (815 mm) minimum for a length of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum, provided that reduced width segments are separated by segments that are 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.

2.  Where the largest deck of a passenger vessel is less than 3000 square feet (279 m²) in size, the walking surface shall be permitted to have a clear width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.

V403.5.2 Clear Width at Turn.

V403.5.2.1 Clear Width at 180 Degree Turn.  Where the accessible route makes a 180 degree turn around an element which is less than 48 inches (1220 mm) wide, clear width shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum approaching the turn, 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum at the turn and 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum leaving the turn.

EXCEPTION:  Where the clear width at the turn is 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum compliance with V403.5.2.1 shall not be required.

V403.5.2.2 Clear Width at 90 Degree Turn.  Where an accessible route is less than 36 inches (915 mm) wide and makes a 90 degree turn, an L-shaped space shall be provided with one stroke 90 inches (2285 mm) minimum in length having a width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum and the other stroke with an 80 inches (2030 mm) minimum length having a width of 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum.

V403.5.3 Passing Spaces.  An accessible route with a clear width less than 60 inches (1525 mm) shall provide passing spaces at intervals of 200 feet (61 m) maximum.  Passing spaces shall be either: a space 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum; or, an intersection of two walking surfaces providing a T-shaped space complying with V304.3.2 where the base and arms of the T-shaped space extend 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum beyond the intersection.

V403.6 Handrails.  Where handrails are provided along walking surfaces with running slopes not steeper than 1:20 they shall comply with V503.

V404 Doors, Doorways, and Gates

V404.1 General.  Doors, doorways, and gates that are part of an accessible route shall comply with V404.

EXCEPTION:  Doors, doorways, and gates designed to be operated only by crew shall not be required to comply with V404.2.7, V404.2.8, V404.2.9, V404.3.2 and V404.3.4 through V404.3.7.

V404.2 Manual Doors, Doorways, and Manual Gates.  Manual doors and doorways and manual gates intended for user passage shall comply with V404.2.

V404.2.1 Revolving Doors, Gates, and Turnstiles.  Revolving doors, revolving gates, and turnstiles shall not be part of an accessible route.

V404.2.2 Double-Leaf Doors and Gates.  At least one of the active leaves of doorways with two leaves shall comply with V404.2.3 and V404.2.4.

V404.2.3 Clear Width.  Door openings shall provide a clear width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.  Clear openings of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the stop, with the door open 90 degrees.  Openings more than 24 inches (610 mm) deep shall provide a clear opening of 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.  There shall be no projections into the required clear opening width lower than 34 inches (865 mm) above the finish deck surface.  Projections into the clear opening width between 34 inches (865 mm) and 80 inches (2030 mm) above the finish deck surface shall not exceed 4 inches (100 mm).

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In alterations, a projection of e inch (16 mm) maximum into the required clear width shall be permitted for the latch side stop.

2.  Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.

V404.2.4 Maneuvering Clearances.  Minimum maneuvering clearances at doors and gates shall comply with V404.2.4.  Maneuvering clearances shall extend the full width of the doorway and the required latch side or hinge side clearance.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Entry doors to hospital patient rooms shall not be required to provide the clearance beyond the latch side of the door.

2.  Maneuvering clearances are not required on the outboard side of doors and gates at entry and departure points required to be accessible.

3.  Where the largest deck of a passenger vessel is less than 3000 square feet (279m²), doors providing single ramp access in accordance with V404.2.5.2.2 are permitted to have maneuvering clearances 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum in depth on the non-ramp side of the doors.

V404.2.4.1 Swinging Doors and Gates.  Swinging doors and gates shall have maneuvering clearances complying with Table V404.2.4.1.

Table V404.2.4.1 Maneuvering Clearances at Manual Swinging Doors and Gates (text version)

1. Add 12 inches (305 mm) if closer and latch are provided.

2. Add 6 inches (150 mm) if closer and latch are provided.

3. Beyond hinge side.

4. Add 6 inches (150 mm) if closer is provided.

V404.2.4.2 Doorways without Doors or Gates, Sliding Doors, and Folding Doors.  Doorways less than 36 inches (915 mm) wide without doors or gates, sliding doors, or folding doors shall have maneuvering clearances complying with Table V404.2.4.2.

Table V404.2.4.2 Maneuvering Clearances at Doorways without Doors or Gates, Manual Sliding Doors, and Manual Folding Doors

1. Doorway with no door only

2. Beyond pocket/hinge side

V404.2.4.3 Recessed Doors and Gates.  Maneuvering clearances for forward approach shall be provided when any obstruction within 18 inches (455 mm) of the latch side of a doorway projects more than 8 inches (205 mm) beyond the face of the door, measured perpendicular to the face of the door or gate.

V404.2.4.4 Deck Surface.  Deck surface within required maneuvering clearances shall comply with V302.  Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Doors with coamings providing double ramp access in accordance with V404.2.5.2.1 are permitted to have maneuvering clearances on both sides with running slopes complying with V405.

2.  Doors with coamings providing single ramp access in accordance with V404.2.5.2.2 are permitted to have maneuvering clearances on only one side with running slopes complying with V405.

3.  Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted. 

4.  Changes in level at thresholds complying with V404.2.5 shall be permitted. 

V404.2.5 Thresholds.  Thresholds, if provided at doors and doorways, shall comply with V404.2.5.1.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where doors are required by the administrative authority to have coamings, this section does not apply provided (1) the thresholds are readily removable by the crew, (2) the doors are only crew operated, and (3) the weather deck areas accessed by these doors are not open to passengers when the vessel is underway.

2.  Where doors are required by the administrative authority to have coamings and the largest deck is less than 3000 square feet (279m²), doors are permitted to comply with double or single ramp access in accordance with V404.2.5.2.

3.  Where doors are required by the administrative authority to have coamings and the administrative authority determines that compliance with V404.2.5.1 is not feasible, doors are permitted to comply with double or single ramp access in accordance with V404.2.5.2.

V404.2.5.1 Doors without Coamings.  Thresholds shall be ½ inch (13 mm) high maximum.  Raised thresholds and changes in level at doorways shall comply with V302 and V303.

EXCEPTION:   Existing or altered thresholds ¾ inch (19 mm) high maximum that have a beveled edge on each side with a slope not steeper than 1:2 shall not be required to comply with V404.2.5.1.

V404.2.5.2 Doors with Coamings.  Doors and doorways permitted to comply with V404.2.5.2 shall comply with V404.2.5.2.1 or V404.2.5.2.2.

EXCEPTION:  Where the administrative authority determines space limitations make it not feasible to comply with V404.2.5.2 and watertight doors are provided instead of coaming equipped weathertight doors, the thresholds on the side of the watertight doors containing the door seal are permitted to have non-beveled thresholds 1¼ inches (32 mm) high maximum.

V404.2.5.2.1 Doors with Double Ramp Access.  The height of thresholds on both sides of the doors shall be equal to or less than the minimum coaming height allowed by the administrative authority provided the doors are automatic and comply with V404.3.

V404.2.5.2.2 Doors with Single Ramp Access.  The thresholds on the ramped side of the doors shall have a height equal to or less than the minimum coaming height allowed by the administrative authority.

V404.2.6 Doors in Series and Gates in Series.  The distance between two hinged or pivoted doors in series and gates in series shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum plus the width of doors or gates swinging into the space.

V404.2.7 Door and Gate Hardware.  Handles, pulls, latches, locks, and other operable parts on doors and gates shall comply with V309.4.  Operable parts of such hardware shall be 34 inches (865 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  Where sliding doors are in the fully open position, operating hardware shall be exposed and usable from both sides.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Existing locks shall be permitted in any location at existing glazed doors without stiles, existing overhead rolling doors or grilles, and similar existing doors or grilles that are designed with locks that are activated only at the top or bottom rail.

2.  Access gates in barrier walls and fences protecting pools, spas, and hot tubs shall be permitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on self-latching devices at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface, provided the self-latching devices are not also self-locking devices and operated by means of a key, electronic opener, or integral combination lock.

V404.2.8 Closing Speed.  Door and gate closing speed shall comply with V404.2.8.

V404.2.8.1 Door Closers and Gate Closers.  Door closers and gate closers shall be adjusted so that from an open position of 90 degrees, the time required to move the door to a position of 12 degrees from the latch is 5 seconds minimum.

V404.2.8.2 Spring Hinges.  Door and gate spring hinges shall be adjusted so that from the open position of 70 degrees, the door or gate shall move to the closed position in 1.5 seconds minimum.

V404.2.9 Door and Gate Opening Force.  Fire doors and watertight doors shall have a minimum opening force allowable by the administrative authority.  The force for pushing or pulling open a door or gate other than fire doors and watertight doors shall be as follows:

1.  Interior hinged doors and gates:  5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

2.  Sliding or folding doors:  5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

These forces do not apply to the force required to retract latch bolts or disengage other devices that hold the door or gate in a closed position.

EXCEPTION:  This section does not apply to doors on sailing vessels.

V404.2.10 Door and Gate Surfaces.  Swinging door and gate surfaces within 10 inches (255 mm) of the finish deck surface measured vertically shall have a smooth surface on the push side extending the full width of the door or gate.  Parts creating horizontal or vertical joints in these surfaces shall be within 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of the same plane as the other.  Cavities created by added kick plates shall be capped.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Sliding doors shall not be required to comply with V404.2.10.

2.  Tempered glass doors without stiles and having a bottom rail or shoe with the top leading edge tapered at 60 degrees minimum from the horizontal shall not be required to meet the 10 inch (255 mm) bottom smooth surface height requirement.

3.  Doors and gates that do not extend to within 10 inches (255 mm) of the finish deck surface shall not be required to comply with V404.2.10.

4.  Existing doors and gates without smooth surfaces within 10 inches (255 mm) of the finish deck surface shall not be required to provide smooth surfaces complying with V404.2.10 provided that if added kick plates are installed, cavities created by such kick plates are capped. 

V404.2.11 Vision Lights.  Doors, gates, and side lights adjacent to doors or gates, containing one or more glazing panels that permit viewing through the panels shall have the bottom of at least one glazed panel located 43 inches (1090 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

EXCEPTION:  Vision lights with the lowest part more than 66 inches (1675 mm) from the finish deck surface shall not be required to comply with V404.2.11.

V404.3 Automatic and Power-Assisted Doors and Gates.  Automatic doors and automatic gates shall comply with V404.3.  Full-powered automatic doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.10 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).  Low-energy and power-assisted doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19 (1997 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).

V404.3.1 Clear Width.  Doorways shall provide a clear opening of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum in power-on and power-off mode.  The minimum clear width for automatic door systems in a doorway shall be based on the clear opening provided by all leaves in the open position.

V404.3.2 Maneuvering Clearance.  Clearances at power-assisted doors and gates shall comply with V404.2.4.  Clearances at automatic doors and gates without emergency power and serving an accessible means of escape shall comply with V404.2.4.

EXCEPTION:  Where automatic doors and gates remain open in the power-off condition, compliance with V404.2.4 shall not be required.

V404.3.3 Thresholds.  Thresholds and changes in level at doorways shall comply with V404.2.5.

V404.3.4 Doors in Series and Gates in Series.  Doors in series and gates in series shall comply with V404.2.6.

V404.3.5 Controls.  Manually operated controls shall comply with V309.  The clear deck space adjacent to the control shall be located beyond the arc of the door swing.

V404.3.6 Break Out Opening.  Where doors and gates without emergency power are a part of a means of escape, the clear break out opening at swinging or sliding doors and gates shall be 32 inches (815 mm) minimum when operated in emergency mode.

EXCEPTION:  Where manual swinging doors and gates comply with V404.2 and serve the same means of escape, compliance with V404.3.6 shall not be required.

V404.3.7 Revolving Doors, Revolving Gates, and Turnstiles.  Revolving doors, revolving gates, and turnstiles shall not be part of an accessible route.

V405 Ramps

V405.1 General.  Ramps on accessible routes shall comply with V405.

EXCEPTION:  In assembly areas, aisle ramps adjacent to seating and not serving elements required to be on an accessible route shall not be required to comply with V405.

V405.2 Slope.  Ramp runs shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:12.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In existing passenger vessels, ramps shall be permitted to have running slopes steeper than 1:12 complying with Table V405.2 where such slopes are necessary due to space limitations.

2.  At doors with coamings providing single ramp access in accordance with V404.2.5.2.2, ramp slopes are permitted to comply with Table V405.2.

Table V405.2 Maximum Ramp Slope and Rise for Existing Passenger Vessels and Doors with Single Ramp Access

1. A slope steeper than 1:8 is prohibited.

V405.3 Cross Slope.  Cross slope of ramp runs shall not be steeper than 1:48.

V405.4 Deck Surfaces.  Deck surfaces of ramp runs shall comply with V302.  Changes in level other than the running slope and cross slope are not permitted on ramp runs.

V405.5 Clear Width.  The clear width of a ramp run and, where handrails are provided, the clear width between handrails shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION:  Where the largest deck of a passenger vessel is less than 3000 square feet (279m²) in size, the width of ramp runs and the distance between handrails, if provided, shall be permitted to have clear widths of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.

V405.6 Rise.  The rise for any ramp run shall be 30 inches (760 mm) maximum.

V405.7 Landings.  Ramps shall have landings at the top and the bottom of each ramp run.  Landings shall comply with V405.7.

EXCEPTION:  Landings at tops of ramps are not required at doors with coamings providing double or single ramp access in accordance with V404.2.5.2.

V405.7.1 Slope.  Landings shall comply with V302.  Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION:  Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

V405.7.2 Width.  The landing clear width shall be at least as wide as the widest ramp run leading to the landing.

V405.7.3 Length.  The landing clear length shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

EXCEPTION:  Where the largest deck is less than 3000 square feet (279m²), the landing clear length shall be permitted to be 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum.

V405.7.4 Change in Direction.  Ramps that change direction between runs at landings shall have a clear landing 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

V405.7.5 Doorways.  Where doorways are located adjacent to a ramp landing, maneuvering clearances required by V404.2.4 and V404.3.2 shall be permitted to overlap the required landing area.

V405.8 Handrails.  Ramp runs with a rise greater than 6 inches (150 mm) shall have handrails complying with V503.

V405.9 Edge Protection.  Edge protection complying with V405.9.1 or V405.9.2 shall be provided on each side of ramp runs and at each side of ramp landings.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Edge protection shall not be required on ramps that are not required to have handrails and have sides complying with V406.3.

2.  Edge protection shall not be required on the sides of ramp landings serving an adjoining ramp run, gangway run, or stairway.

3.  Edge protection shall not be required on the sides of ramp landings having a vertical drop-off of ½ inch (13 mm) maximum within 10 inches (255 mm) horizontally of the minimum landing area specified in V405.7.

V405.9.1 Extended Deck Surface.  The deck surface of the ramp run or landing shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the inside face of a handrail complying with V503.

V405.9.2 Curb or Barrier.  A curb or barrier shall be provided that prevents the passage of a 4 inch (100 mm) diameter sphere, where any portion of the sphere is within 4 inches (100 mm) of the finish deck surface.

V405.10 Wet Conditions.  Landings subject to wet conditions shall be designed to prevent the accumulation of water.

V406 Curb Ramps

V406.1 General.  Curb ramps on accessible routes shall comply with V406, V405.2 through V405.5, and V405.10.

V406.2 Counter Slope.  Counter slopes of adjoining gutters and vehicular way surfaces immediately adjacent to the curb ramp shall not be steeper than 1:20.  The adjacent surfaces at transitions at curb ramps to walks, gutters, and vehicular ways shall be at the same level.

V406.3 Sides of Curb Ramps.  Where provided, curb ramp flares shall not be steeper than 1:10.

V406.4 Landings.  Landings shall be provided at the tops of curb ramps.  The landing clear length shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.  The landing clear width shall be at least as wide as the curb ramp, excluding flared sides, leading to the landing.

EXCEPTION:  In alterations, where there is no landing at the top of curb ramps, curb ramp flares shall be provided and shall not be steeper than 1:12.

V407 Elevators

V407.1 General.  Elevators shall comply with V407 and with ASME A17.1 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).  They shall be passenger elevators as classified by ASME A17.1.  Elevator operation shall be automatic.

V407.2 Elevator Landing Requirements.  Elevator landings shall comply with V407.2.

V407.2.1 Call Controls.  Where elevator call buttons or keypads are provided, they shall comply with V407.2.1 and V309.4.  Call buttons shall be raised or flush.

EXCEPTION:  Existing elevators shall be permitted to have recessed call buttons.

V407.2.1.1 Height.  Call buttons and keypads shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified in V308, measured to the centerline of the highest operable part.

EXCEPTION:  Existing call buttons and existing keypads shall be permitted to be located at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface measured to the centerline of the highest operable part.

V407.2.1.2 Size.  Call buttons shall be ¾ inch (19 mm) minimum in the smallest dimension.

EXCEPTION:  Existing elevator call buttons shall not be required to comply with V407.2.1.2.

V407.2.1.3 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deckspace complying with V305 shall be provided at call controls.

V407.2.1.4 Location.  The call button that designates the up direction shall be located above the call button that designates the down direction.

EXCEPTION:  Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with V407.2.1.4.

V407.2.1.5 Signals.  Call buttons shall have visible signals to indicate when each call is registered and when each call is answered.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with V407.2.1.5 provided that visible and audible signals complying with V407.2.2 indicating which elevator car to enter are provided.

2.  Existing elevators shall not be required to comply with V407.2.1.5.

V407.2.1.6 Keypads.  Where keypads are provided, keypads shall be in a standard telephone keypad arrangement and shall comply with V407.4.7.2.

V407.2.2 Hall Signals.  Hall signals, including in-car signals, shall comply with V407.2.2.

V407.2.2.1 Visible and Audible Signals.  A visible and audible signal shall be provided at each hoistway entrance to indicate which car is answering a call and the car’s direction of travel.  Where in-car signals are provided, they shall be visible from the deck area adjacent to the hall call buttons.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Visible and audible signals shall not be required at each destination-oriented elevator where a visible and audible signal complying with V407.2.2 is provided indicating the elevator car designation information.

2.  In existing elevators, a signal indicating the direction of car travel shall not be required.

V407.2.2.2 Visible Signals.  Visible signal fixtures shall be centered at 72 inches (1830 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface.  The visible signal elements shall be 2½ inches (64 mm) minimum measured along the vertical centerline of the element.  Signals shall be visible from the deck area adjacent to the hall call button.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Destination-oriented elevators shall be permitted to have signals visible from the deck area adjacent to the hoistway entrance.

2.  Existing elevators shall not be required to comply with V407.2.2.2.

V407.2.2.3 Audible Signals.  Audible signals shall sound once for the up direction and twice for the down direction, or shall have verbal annunciators that indicate the direction of elevator car travel.  Audible signals shall have a frequency of 1500 Hz maximum.  Verbal annunciators shall have a frequency of 300 Hz minimum and 3000 Hz maximum.  The audible signal and verbal annunciator shall be 10 dB minimum above ambient, but shall not exceed 80 dB maximum, measured at the hall call button.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with V407.2.2.3 provided that the audible tone and verbal announcement is the same as those given at the call button or call button keypad.

2.  Existing elevators shall not be required to comply with the requirements for frequency and dB range of audible signals.

V407.2.2.4 Differentiation.  Each destination-oriented elevator in a bank of elevators shall have audible and visible means for differentiation.

V407.2.3 Hoistway Signs.  Signs at elevator hoistways shall comply with V407.2.3.

V407.2.3.1 Deck Designation.  Deck designations complying with V703.2 and V703.4.1 and shall be provided on both jambs of elevator hoistway entrances.  Deck designations shall be provided in both tactilecharacters and braille.  Tactilecharacters shall be 2 inches (51 mm) high minimum.  Where vessel entry points are provided on only one deck, a tactile star shall be provided on both jambs at the entrydeck.

V407.2.3.2 Car Designations.  Destination-oriented elevators shall provide tactile car identification complying with V703.2 on both jambs of the hoistway immediately below the deck designation.  Car designations shall be provided in both tactilecharacters and braille.  Tactilecharacters shall be 2 inches (51 mm) high minimum.

V407.3 Elevator Door Requirements.  Hoistway and car doors shall comply with V407.3.

V407.3.1 Type.  Elevator doors shall be the horizontal sliding type.  Car gates shall be prohibited.

V407.3.2 Operation.  Elevator hoistway and car doors shall open and close automatically.

EXCEPTION:  Existing manually operated hoistway swing doors shall be permitted provided that they comply with V404.2.3 and V404.2.9.  Car door closing shall not be initiated until the hoistway door is closed.

V407.3.3 Reopening Device.  Elevator doors shall be provided with a reopening device complying with V407.3.3 that shall stop and reopen a car door and hoistway door automatically if the door becomes obstructed by an object or person.

EXCEPTION:  Existing elevators with manually operated doors shall not be required to comply with V407.3.3.

V407.3.3.1 Height.  The device shall be activated by sensing an obstruction passing through the opening at 5 inches (125 mm) nominal and 29 inches (735 mm) nominal above the finish deck surface.

V407.3.3.2 Contact.  The device shall not require physical contact to be activated, although contact is permitted to occur before the door reverses.

V407.3.3.3 Duration.  Door reopening devices shall remain effective for 20 seconds minimum.

V407.3.4 Door and Signal Timing.  The minimum acceptable time from notification that a car is answering a call or notification of the car assigned at the means for the entry of destination information until the doors of that car start to close shall be calculated from the following equation: T = D/(1.5 ft/s) or T = D/(455 mm/s) = 5 seconds minimum where T equals the total time in seconds and D equals the distance (in feet or millimeters) from the point in the lobby or corridor 60 inches (1525 mm) directly in front of the farthest call button controlling that car to the centerline of its hoistway door.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  For cars with in-car lanterns, T shall be permitted to begin when the signal is visible from the point 60 inches (1525 mm) directly in front of the farthest hall call button and the audible signal is sounded.

2.  Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with V407.3.4.

V407.3.5 Door Delay.  Elevator doors shall remain fully open in response to a car call for 3 seconds minimum.

V407.3.6 Width.  The width of elevator doors shall comply with Table V407.4.1.

EXCEPTION:  In existing elevators, a power-operated car door complying with V404.2.3 shall be permitted.

V407.4 Elevator Car Requirements.  Elevator cars shall comply with V407.4.

V407.4.1 Car Dimensions.  Inside dimensions of elevator cars and clear width of elevator doors shall comply with Table V407.4.1.

EXCEPTION:  Existing elevator car configurations that provide a clear deck area of 16 square feet (1.5 m²) minimum and also provide an inside clear depth 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum and a clear width 36 inches (915 mm) minimum shall be permitted.

Table V407.4.1 Elevator Door and Car Sizes

	Minimum Dimensions
Door Location	Door Clear Width	Inside Car, Side to Side	Inside Car, Back Wall to Front Return	Inside Car, Back Wall to Inside Face of Door
Centered	42 inches (1065 mm)	80 inches (2030 mm)	51 inches (1295 mm)	54 inches (1370 mm)
Side (off-centered)	36 inches (915 mm)1	68 inches (1725 mm)	51 inches (1295 mm)	54 inches (1370 mm)
Any	36 inches (915 mm)1	54 inches (1370 mm)	80 inches (2030 mm)	80 inches (2030 mm)
Any	36 inches (915 mm)1	60 inches (1525 mm)2	60 inches (1525 mm)2	60 inches (1525 mm)2

^1.  A tolerance of minus 5/8 inch (16 mm) is permitted.
^2.  Other car configurations that provide a turning space complying with V304 with the door closed shall be permitted.

V407.4.2 Deck Surfaces.  Deck surfaces in elevator cars shall comply with V302 and V303.

V407.4.3 Platform to Hoistway Clearance.  The clearance between the car platform sill and the edge of any hoistway landing shall be 1¼ inch (32 mm) maximum.

V407.4.4 Leveling.  Each car shall be equipped with a self-leveling feature that will automatically bring and maintain the car at deck landings within a tolerance of ½ inch (13 mm) under rated loading to zero loading conditions.

V407.4.5 Illumination.  The level of illumination at the car controls, platform, car threshold, and car landing sill shall be 5 foot candles (54 lux) minimum.

V407.4.6 Elevator Car Controls.  Where provided, elevator car controls shall comply with V407.4.6 and V309.4.

EXCEPTION:  In existing elevators, where a new car operating panel complying with V407.4.6 is provided, existing car operating panels shall not be required to comply with V407.4.6.

V407.4.6.1 Location.  Controls shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified in V308.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where the elevator panel serves more than 16 openings and a parallel approach is provided, buttons with deck designations shall be permitted to be 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

2.  In existing elevators, car control buttons with deck designations shall be permitted to be located 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface where a parallel approach is provided.

V407.4.6.2 Buttons.  Car control buttons with deck designations shall comply with V407.4.6.2 and shall be raised or flush.

EXCEPTION:  In existing elevators, buttons shall be permitted to be recessed.

V407.4.6.2.1 Size.  Buttons shall be 3/4 inch (19 mm) minimum in their smallest dimension.

V407.4.6.2.2 Arrangement.  Buttons shall be arranged with numbers in ascending order.  When two or more columns of buttons are provided, they shall read from left to right.

V407.4.6.3 Keypads.  Car control keypads shall be in a standard telephone keypad arrangement and shall comply with V407.4.7.2.

V407.4.6.4 Emergency Controls.  Emergency controls shall comply with V407.4.6.4.

V407.4.6.4.1 Height.  Emergency control buttons shall have their centerlines 35 inches (890 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface.

V407.4.6.4.2 Location.  Emergency controls, including the emergency alarm, shall be grouped at the bottom of the panel.

V407.4.7 Designations and Indicators of Car Controls.  Designations and indicators of car controls shall comply with V407.4.7.

EXCEPTION:  In existing elevators, where a new car operating panel complying with V407.4.7 is provided, existing car operating panels shall not be required to comply with V407.4.7.

V407.4.7.1 Buttons.  Car control buttons shall comply with V407.4.7.1.

V407.4.7.1.1 Type.  Control buttons shall be identified by tactilecharacters complying with V703.2.

V407.4.7.1.2 Location.  Raised character and braille designations shall be placed immediately to the left of the control button to which the designations apply.

EXCEPTION:  Where space on an existing car operating panel precludes tactile markings to the left of the controls, markings shall be placed as near to the control as possible.

V407.4.7.1.3 Symbols.  The control button for the emergency stop, alarm, door open, door close, entry deck, and phone, shall be identified with tactile symbols as shown in Table V407.4.7.1.3.

EXCEPTION:  Where a passenger vessel has more than one entry deck, the entry deck tactile symbol is not required.

Table V407.4.7.1.3 Elevator Control Button Identification

V407.4.7.1.4 Visible Indicators.  Buttons with deck designations shall be provided with visible indicators to show that a call has been registered.  The visible indication shall extinguish when the car arrives at the designated deck.

V407.4.7.2 Keypads.  Keypads shall be identified by characters complying with V703.5 and shall be centered on the corresponding keypad button.  The number five key shall have a single raised dot.  The dot shall be 0.118 inch (3 mm) to 0.120 inch (3.05 mm) base diameter and in other aspects comply with Table V703.3.1.

V407.4.8 Car Position Indicators.  Audible and visible car position indicators shall be provided in elevator cars.

V407.4.8.1 Visible Indicators.  Visible indicators shall comply with V407.4.8.1.

V407.4.8.1.1 Size.  Characters shall be ½ inch (13 mm) high minimum.

V407.4.8.1.2 Location.  Indicators shall be located above the car control panel or above the door.

V407.4.8.1.3 Deck Arrival.  As the car passes a deck and when a car stops at a deck served by the elevator, the corresponding character shall illuminate.

EXCEPTION:  Destination-oriented elevators shall not be required to comply with V407.4.8.1.3 provided that the visible indicators extinguish when the call has been answered.

V407.4.8.1.4 Destination Indicator.  In destination-oriented elevators, a display shall be provided in the car with visible indicators to show car destinations.

V407.4.8.2 Audible Indicators.  Audible indicators shall comply with V407.4.8.2.

V407.4.8.2.1 Signal Type.  The signal shall be an automatic verbal annunciator which announces the deck at which the car is about to stop. 

EXCEPTION:  For elevators other than destination-oriented elevators that have a rated speed of 200 feet per minute (1 m/s) or less, a non-verbal audible signal with a frequency of 1500 Hz maximum which sounds as the car passes or is about to stop at a deck served by the elevator shall be permitted.

V407.4.8.2.2 Signal Level.  The verbal annunciator shall be 10 dB minimum above ambient, but shall not exceed 80 dB, measured at the annunciator.

V407.4.8.2.3 Frequency.  The verbal annunciator shall have a frequency of 300 Hz minimum to 3000 Hz maximum.

V407.4.9 Emergency Communication.  Emergency two-way communication systems shall comply with V308.  Tactile symbols and characters shall be provided adjacent to the device and shall comply with V703.2.

V407.4.10 Handrails.  Where handrails are provided in elevators, the handrails shall comply with V503.  Handrails complying with V307.2 shall be permitted to overlap clearances for elevators.

V408 Limited-Use/Limited-Application Elevators

V408.1 General.  Limited-use/limited-application elevators shall comply with V408 and with ASME A17.1 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).  They shall be passenger elevators as classified by ASME A17.1.  Elevator operation shall be automatic.

V408.2 Elevator Landings.  Landings serving limited-use/limited-application elevators shall comply with V408.2.

V408.2.1 Call Buttons.  Elevator call buttons and keypads shall comply with V407.2.1.

V408.2.2 Hall Signals.  Hall signals shall comply with V407.2.2.

V408.2.3 Hoistway Signs.  Signs at elevator hoistways shall comply with V407.2.3.1.

V408.3 Elevator Doors.  Elevator hoistway doors shall comply with V408.3.

V408.3.1 Sliding Doors.  Sliding hoistway and car doors shall comply with V407.3.1 through V407.3.3 and V408.4.9.

V408.3.2 Swinging Doors.  Swinging hoistway doors shall open and close automatically and shall comply with V404, V407.3.2 and V408.3.2.

V408.3.2.1 Power Operation.  Swinging doors shall be power-operated and shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19 (1997 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).

V408.3.2.2 Duration.  Power-operated swinging doors shall remain open for 20 seconds minimum when activated.

V408.4 Elevator Cars.  Elevator cars shall comply with V408.4.

V408.4.1 Car Dimensions and Doors.  Elevator cars shall provide a clear width 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum and a clear depth 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum.  Car doors shall be positioned at the narrow ends of cars and shall provide 32 inches (815 mm) minimum clear width.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Cars that provide a clear width 51 inches (1295 mm) minimum shall be permitted to provide a clear depth 51 inches (1295 mm) minimum, provided that car doors provide a clear opening 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.

2.  Existing elevator cars shall be permitted to provide a clear width 36 inches (915 mm) minimum, clear depth 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum, and a net clear platform area 15 square feet (1.4 m²) minimum.

V408.4.2 Deck Surfaces.  Deck surfaces in elevator cars shall comply with V302 and V303.

V408.4.3 Platform to Hoistway Clearance.  The platform to hoistway clearance shall comply with V407.4.3.

V408.4.4 Leveling.  Elevator car leveling shall comply with V407.4.4.

V408.4.5 Illumination.  Elevator car illumination shall comply with V407.4.5.

V408.4.6 Car Controls.  Elevator car controls shall comply with V407.4.6.  Control panels shall be centered on a side wall and shall comply with V309.

V408.4.7 Designations and Indicators of Car Controls.  Designations and indicators of car controls shall comply with V407.4.7.

V408.4.8 Emergency Communications.  Car emergency signaling devices complying with V407.4.9 shall be provided.

V408.4.9 Handrails.  Where handrails are provided in elevators, the handrails shall comply with V503.  Handrails complying with V307.2 shall be permitted to overlap clearances for elevators.

V409 Platform Lifts

V409.1 General.  Platform lifts shall not be attendant-operated and shall provide unassisted entry and exit from the lift.

V409.2 Deck Surfaces.  Deck surfaces in platform lifts shall comply with V302 and V303.

V409.3 Clear Deck Space.  Clear deckspace in platform lifts shall comply with V305.

V 409.4 Platform to Runway Clearance.  The clearance between the platform sill and the edge of any runway landing shall be 1¼ inch (32 mm) maximum. 

V409.5 Operable Parts.  Controls for platform lifts shall comply with V309.

V409.6 Doors and Gates.  Platform lifts shall have low-energy power-operated doors or gates complying with V404.3.  Doors shall remain open for 20 seconds minimum.  End doors and gates shall provide a clear width 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.  Side doors and gates shall provide a clear width 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION:  Platform lifts serving two landings maximum and having doors or gates on opposite sides shall be permitted to have self-closing manual doors or gates.

V409.7 Handrails.  Where handrails are provided in platform lifts, the handrails shall comply with V503.  Handrails complying with V307.2 shall be permitted to overlap clearances for platform lifts where handrail supports do not project into the clear deckspace required by V409.3.

V410 Accessible Means of Escape

V410.1 Components.  Each accessible means of escape shall comply with administrative authority requirements applicable to the corresponding required means of escape from that space; and shall consist of one or more of the following components:

(a) walking surfaces complying with V403;

(b) doors and doorways complying with V404;

(c) ramps complying with V405;

(d) curb ramps complying with V406;

(e) exit stairways complying with V410.2;

(f) elevators complying with V206.6, and V410.3; and

(g) platform lifts complying with V206.7 and V410.4.

V410.2 Exit Stairways.  An exit stairway to be considered part of an accessible means of escape shall:

(a) have stairs complying with V502 and shall have a clear width of 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum between handrails, and

(b) either:

(i) incorporate an area of temporary refuge complying with V411 within an enlarged deck-level stair landing;

(ii) be accessed from an area of temporary refuge complying with V411; or

(iii) be accessed from an area of refuge complying with requirements established by the administrative authority.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  This section shall not apply to exit stairways serving only one passenger guestroom.

2.  This section shall not apply to exit stairways where vessels are protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with SOLAS II-2 (incorporated by reference, see V105.2.4) or NFPA 13 (incorporated by reference, see V105.2.5).

3.  The clear width of 48 inches (1220 mm) between handrails is not required for exit stairways accessed from an area of refuge complying with requirements established by the administrative authority.

4.  This section shall not apply to exit stairways accessed from open deck areas.

5.  Vessels carrying 600 or fewer passengers, or 49 or less overnight passengers, shall be permitted to have exit stairways with a clear width of 36 inches (915 mm) minimum between handrails.

V410.3 Elevators.  An elevator to be considered part of an accessible means of escape shall comply with the requirements of Rule 211 of ASME/ANSI A17.1 and shall be provided with emergency power.  The elevators shall be accessed from either an area of temporary refuge complying with V411 or an area of refuge complying with requirements established by the administrative authority.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of temporary refuge or an area of refuge in open air spaces.

2.  Elevators are not required to be accessed from an area of temporary refuge or an area of refuge in vessels protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with SOLAS II-2 (incorporated by reference, see V105.2.4) or NFPA 13 (incorporated by reference, see V105.2.5).

V410.4 Platform Lifts.  A platform lift to be considered part of an accessible means of escape shall comply with V409 and shall be provided with emergency power.

V411 Areas of Temporary Refuge

V411.1 General.  Areas of temporary refuge that are part of an accessible means of escape shall comply with V411.

V411.2 Location.  Areas of temporary refuge shall be accessed from the space it serves by an accessible means of escape.  Every required area of temporary refuge shall have direct access to a stair complying with V410.2 or an elevator complying with V410.3.

V411.3 Size.  Areas of temporary refuge shall be sized to accommodate one wheelchair space complying with V305.3 for each 200 occupants or portion thereof, based on the occupant load of the area of temporary refuge and all areas served by the area of temporary refuge.  Such wheelchair spaces shall not reduce the required means of escape width established by the administrative authority.  Access to any of the required wheelchair spaces in an area of temporary refuge shall not be obstructed by more than one adjoining wheelchair space.

V411.4 Construction.  Areas of temporary refuge shall comply with construction requirements established by the administrative authority for areas of refuge applicable to the particular vessel.

V411.5 Smoke Resistance.  Areas of temporary refuge shall comply with smoke resistance requirements established by the administrative authority for areas of refuge applicable to the particular vessel.

V411.6 Two-way Communication.  Areas of temporary refuge shall be provided with a two-way communication system between the area of temporary refuge and the bridge of the vessel, or a central control station which is manned while passengers are on the vessel.  The two-way communication system shall include both audible and visible signals.

V412 Passenger Boarding Systems

V412.1 General.  Passenger boarding systems shall comply with V412.

V412.2 Components.  Passenger boarding systems shall consist of one or more of the following components:

(a) walking surfaces complying with V403;

(b) doors and doorways complying with V404;

(c) ramps complying with V405;

(d) curb ramps complying with V406;

(e) elevators complying with V407 or V408;

(f) platform lifts complying with V409; and

(g) gangways complying with V413; 

V413 Gangways

V413.1 General.  Gangways that are part of passenger boarding systems required to comply with V412 shall comply with V413.

V413.2 Slope.  Gangway runs shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:12.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In existing passenger vessels, gangways shall be permitted to have running slopes steeper than 1:12 complying with Table V413.2 where such slopes are necessary due to space limitations.

2.  Where an existing gangway run or series of gangway runs is replaced or altered, an increase in the length of the gangway run is not required to comply with V413.2, unless required by V202.4.

3.  On vessel carried gangways, where the total length of the gangway run or series of runs is at least as long as the beam of the vessel, V413.2 shall not apply to the gangways.

4.  On pier provided gangways, where the total length of a gangway run or series of runs is at least 120 feet (37 m), V413.2 shall not apply to the gangways.

5.  On passenger vessels which carry vehicles, where the only way for pedestrian passengers to embark or disembark is by way of a gangway which also functions as a vehicle transfer bridge, V413.2 shall not apply to the gangway.

 

Table V413.2 Maximum Gangway Slope and Rise for Existing Passenger Vessels

1. A slope steeper than 1:8 is prohibited.

 

V413.3 Cross Slope.  Cross slope of gangway runs shall not be steeper than 1:48.

V413.4 Surfaces.  Surfaces of gangway runs shall comply with V302.  Changes in level other than the running slope and cross slope are not permitted on gangway runs.

V413.5 Clear Width.  The clear width of a gangway run and, where handrails are provided, the clear width between handrails shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION:  Where the largest deck of a passenger vessel is less than 3000 square feet (279m²), the width of gangway runs and the distance between handrails, if provided, shall be permitted to have clear widths of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.

V413.6 Transition Plates.  Transition plates provided at the ends of gangway runs shall contrast visually with adjacent passenger walkways either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

V413.7 Landings.  Gangways shall have landings at the top and the bottom of each gangway run.  Landings shall comply with V405.7.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Landings shall not be required at gangways which connect to transition plates which comply with V405.

2.  On telescoping gangways, landings shall not be required between gangway segments where transition plates are provided which comply with V405.1 through V405.6 and V405.8 through V405.10.

V413.7.1 Slope.  Landings shall comply with V302.  Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION:  Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

V413.7.2 Width.  The landing clear width shall be at least as wide as the widest gangway run leading to the landing.

V413.7.3 Length.  The landing clear length shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

V413.7.4 Change in Direction.  Gangways that change direction between runs at landings shall have a clear landing 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

V413.7.5 Doorways.  Where doorways are located adjacent to a gangway landing, maneuvering clearances required by V404.2.4 and V404.3.2 shall be permitted to overlap the required landing area.

V413.8 Handrails.  Gangway runs with a rise greater than 6 inches (150 mm) shall have handrails complying with V503.

            EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where gangways and transition plates connect and are required to have handrails, handrail extensions shall not be required.

2.  Where handrail extensions are provided on gangways or transition plates, extensions are not required to be horizontal to the landing surface.

V413.9 Edge Protection.  Edge protection complying with V413.9.1 or V413.9.2 shall be provided on each side of gangway runs and at each side of gangwaylandings.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Edge protection shall not be required on the sides of gangway landings serving an adjoining ramp run, gangway run or stairway.

2.  Edge protection shall not be required on the sides of gangway landings having a vertical drop-off of ½ inch (13 mm) maximum within 10 inches (255 mm) horizontally of the minimum landing area specified in V413.7.

V413.9.1 Extended Deck Surface.  The deck surface of the gangway run or landing shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the inside face of a handrail complying with V503.

V413.9.2 Curb or Barrier.  A curb or barrier shall be provided that prevents the passage of a 4 inch (100 mm) diameter sphere, where any portion of the sphere is within 4 inches (100 mm) of the finish deck surface.

V413.10 Wet Conditions.  Landings subject to wet conditions shall be designed to prevent the accumulation of water.
 

 

CHAPTER 5: GENERAL PASSENGER VESSEL ELEMENTS

V501 General

V501.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 5 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V502 Stairways

V502.1 General.  Stairs shall comply with V502.

V502.2 Treads and Risers.  All steps on a flight of stairs shall have uniform riser heights and uniform tread depths.  Risers shall be 4 inches (100 mm) high minimum and 7 inches (180 mm) high maximum.  Treads shall be 11 inches (280 mm) deep minimum.

V502.3 Open Risers.  Open risers are not permitted.

V502.4 Tread Surface.  Stair treads shall comply with V302.  Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION:  Treads shall be permitted to have a slope not steeper than 1:48.

V502.5 Nosings.  The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be ½ inch (13 mm) maximum.  Nosings that project beyond risers shall have the underside of the leading edge curved or beveled.  Risers shall be permitted to slope under the tread at an angle of 30 degrees maximum from vertical.  The permitted projection of the nosing shall extend 1½ inches (38 mm) maximum over the tread below.

V502.6 Handrails.  Stairs shall have handrails complying with V503.

V502.7 Wet Conditions.  Stair treads and landings subject to wet conditions shall be designed to prevent the accumulation of water.

V503 Handrails

V503.1 General.  Handrails provided along walking surfaces complying with V403, required at ramps complying with V405, provided at elevators complying with V407 or V408 and platform lifts complying with V409, required at gangways complying with V413 and required at stairs complying with V502, shall comply with V503.

V503.2 Where Required.  Handrails shall be provided on both sides of stairs, gangways, and ramps.

EXCEPTION:  In assembly areas, handrails shall not be required on both sides of aisle ramps where a handrail is provided at either side or within the aisle width.

V503.3 Continuity.  Handrails shall be continuous within the full length of each stair flight, gangway run, or ramp run.  Inside handrails on switchback or dogleg stairs and ramps shall be continuous between flights or runs.

EXCEPTION:  In assembly areas, handrails on ramps shall not be required to be continuous in aisles serving seating.

V503.4 Height.  Top of gripping surfaces of handrails shall be 34 inches (865 mm) minimum and 38 inches (965 mm) maximum vertically above walking surfaces, stair nosings, gangway surfaces, and ramp surfaces.  Handrails shall be at a consistent height above walking surfaces, stair nosings, gangway surfaces, and ramp surfaces.

EXCEPTION:  This section shall not apply to handrails along walking surfaces with slopes not steeper than 1:20 that are required by the administrative authority to be located more than 38 inches (965 mm) above deck surfaces.

V503.5 Clearance.  Clearance between handrail gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum.

V503.6 Gripping Surface.  Handrail gripping surfaces shall be continuous along their length and shall not be obstructed along their tops or sides.  The bottoms of handrail gripping surfaces shall not be obstructed for more than 20 percent of their length.  Where provided, horizontal projections shall occur 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum below the bottom of the handrail gripping surface.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where handrails are provided along walking surfaces with slopes not steeper than 1:20, the bottoms of handrail gripping surfaces shall be permitted to be obstructed along their entire length where they are integral to crash rails or bumper guards.

2.  The distance between horizontal projections and the bottom of the gripping surface shall be permitted to be reduced by 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) for each ½ inch (13 mm) of additional handrail perimeter dimension that exceeds 4 inches (100 mm).

V503.7 Cross Section.  Handrail gripping surfaces shall have a cross section complying with V503.7.1 or V503.7.2.

V503.7.1 Circular Cross Section.  Handrail gripping surfaces with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of 1¼ inches (32 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum.

V503.7.2 Non-Circular Cross Sections.  Handrail gripping surfaces with a non-circular cross section shall have a perimeter dimension of 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 6¼ inches (160 mm) maximum, and a cross-section dimension of 2¼ inches (57 mm) maximum.

V503.8 Surfaces.  Handrail gripping surfaces and any surfaces adjacent to them shall be free of sharp or abrasive elements and shall have rounded edges.

V503.9 Fittings.  Handrails shall not rotate within their fittings.

V503.10 Handrail Extensions.  Handrail gripping surfaces shall extend beyond and in the same direction of stair flights, gangway runs and ramp runs in accordance with V503.10.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Extensions shall not be required for continuous handrails at the inside turn of switchback or dogleg stairs and ramps.

2.  In assembly areas, extensions shall not be required for ramp handrails in aisles serving seating where the handrails are discontinuous to provide access to seating and to permit crossovers within aisles.

3.  In alterations, full extensions of handrails shall not be required where such extensions would be hazardous due to plan configuration.

V503.10.1 Top and Bottom Extension at Ramps.  Ramp handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the top and bottom of ramp runs.  Extensions shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent ramp run.

V503.10.2 Top Extension at Stairs.  At the top of a stair flight, handrails shall extend horizontally above the landing for 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beginning directly above the first riser nosing.  Extensions shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight.

V503.10.3 Bottom Extension at Stairs.  At the bottom of a stair flight, handrails shall extend at the slope of the stair flight for a horizontal distance at least equal to one tread depth beyond the last riser nosing.  Extensions shall return to a wall, guard, or the landing surface, or shall be continuous to the handrail of an adjacent stair flight.
 

 

CHAPTER 6: PLUMBING ELEMENTS AND FACILITIES

V601 General

V601.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 6 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V602 Drinking Fountains

V602.1 General.  Drinking fountains shall comply with V307 and V602.

V602.2 Clear Deck Space.  Units shall have a clear deck space complying with V305 positioned for a forward approach and centered on the unit.  Knee and toe clearance complying with V306 shall be provided.

EXCEPTION:  A parallel approach complying with V305 shall be permitted at units for children's use where the spout is 30 inches (760 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface and is 3½ inches (90 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers.

V602.3 Operable Parts.  Operable parts shall comply with V309.

V602.4 Spout Height.  Spout outlets shall be 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V602.5 Spout Location.  The spout shall be located 15 inches (380 mm) minimum from the vertical support and 5 inches (125 mm) maximum from the front edge of the unit, including bumpers.

V602.6 Water Flow.  The spout shall provide a flow of water 4 inches (100 mm) high minimum and shall be located 5 inches (125 mm) maximum from the front of the unit.  The angle of the water stream shall be measured horizontally relative to the front face of the unit.  Where spouts are located less than 3 inches (75 mm) of the front of the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 30 degrees maximum.  Where spouts are located between 3 inches (75 mm) and 5 inches (125 mm) maximum from the front of the unit, the angle of the water stream shall be 15 degrees maximum.

V602.7 Drinking Fountains for Standing Persons.  Spout outlets of drinking fountains for standing persons shall be 38 inches (965 mm) minimum and 43 inches (1090 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V603 Toilet and Bathing Rooms

V603.1 General.  Toilet and bathing rooms shall comply with V603.

V603.2 Clearances.  Clearances shall comply with V603.2.

V603.2.1 Turning Space.  Turning space complying with V304 shall be provided within the room.

V603.2.2 Overlap.  Required clear deck spaces, clearance at fixtures, and turning space shall be permitted to overlap.

V603.2.3 Door Swing.  Doors shall not swing into the clear deck space or clearance required for any fixture.  Doors shall be permitted to swing into the required turning space.

EXCEPTION:  Where the toilet room or bathing room is for individual use and a clear deck space complying with V305.3 is provided within the room, beyond the arc of the door swing, doors shall be permitted to swing into the clear deck space or clearance required for any fixture.

V603.3 Mirrors.  Mirrors located above lavatories or countertops shall be installed with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface 40 inches (1015 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  Mirrors not located above lavatories or countertops shall be installed with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface 35 inches (890 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V603.4 Coat Hooks and Shelves.  Coat hooks shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified in V308.  Shelves shall be located 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V604 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments

V604.1 General.  Water closets and toilet compartments shall comply with V604.2 through V604.8.

EXCEPTION:  Water closets and toilet compartments for children's use shall be permitted to comply with V604.9.

V604.2 Location.  The water closet shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side.  The centerline of the water closet shall be 16 inches (405 mm) minimum to 18 inches (455 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition, except that the water closet shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition in the ambulatory accessible toilet compartment specified in V604.8.2.  Water closets shall be arranged for a left-hand or right-hand approach.

V604.3 Clearance.  Clearances around water closets and in toilet compartments shall comply with V604.3.

V604.3.1 Size.  Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches (1420 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall.

V604.3.2 Overlap.  The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear deck space and clearances required at other fixtures, and the turning space.  No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

V604.4 Seats.  The seat height of a water closet above the finish deck surface shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum measured to the top of the seat.  Seats shall not be sprung to return to a lifted position.

V604.5 Grab Bars.  Grab bars for water closets shall comply with V609.  Grab bars shall be provided on the side wall closest to the water closet and on the rear wall.

EXCEPTION:  In detention facilities, grab bars shall not be required to be installed in cells that are specially designed without protrusions for purposes of suicide prevention.

V604.5.1 Side Wall.  The side wall grab bar shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) long minimum, located 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the rear wall and extending 54 inches (1370 mm) minimum from the rear wall.

V604.5.2 Rear Wall.  The rear wall grab bar shall be 36 inches (915 mm) long minimum and extend from the centerline of the water closet 12 inches (305 mm) minimum on one side and 24 inches (610 mm) minimum on the other side.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  The rear grab bar shall be permitted to be 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum, centered on the water closet, where wall space does not permit a length of 36 inches (915 mm) minimum due to the location of a recessed fixture adjacent to the water closet.

2.  Where an administrative authority requires flush controls for flush valves to be located in a position that conflicts with the location of the rear grab bar, then the rear grab bar shall be permitted to be split or shifted to the open side of the toilet area.

V604.6 Flush Controls.  Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic.  Hand operated flush controls shall comply with V309.  Flush controls shall be located on the open side of the water closet except in ambulatory accessible compartments complying with V604.8.2.

V604.7 Dispensers.  Toilet paper dispensers shall comply with V309.4 and shall be 7 inches (180 mm) minimum and 9 inches (230 mm) maximum in front of the water closet measured to the centerline of the dispenser.  The outlet of the dispenser shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface and shall not be located behind grab bars.  Dispensers shall not be of a type that controls delivery or that does not allow continuous paper flow.

V604.8 Toilet Compartments.  Wheelchair accessible toilet compartments shall meet the requirements of V604.8.1 and V604.8.3.  Compartments containing more than one plumbing fixture shall comply with V603.  Ambulatory accessible compartments shall comply with V604.8.2 and V604.8.3.

V604.8.1 Wheelchair Accessible Compartments.  Wheelchair accessible compartments shall comply with V604.8.1.

V604.8.1.1 Size.  Wheelchair accessible compartments shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum measured perpendicular to the side wall, and 56 inches (1420 mm) deep minimum for wall hung water closets, and 59 inches (1500 mm) deep minimum for deck surface mounted water closets measured perpendicular to the rear wall.  Wheelchair accessible compartments for children’s use shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum measured perpendicular to the side wall, and 59 inches (1500 mm) deep minimum for wall hung and deck surface mounted water closets measured perpendicular to the rear wall.

V604.8.1.2 Doors.  Toilet compartment doors, including door hardware, shall comply with V404 except that if the approach is to the latch side of the compartment door, clearance between the door side of the compartment and any obstruction shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum.  Doors shall be located in the front partition or in the side wall or partition farthest from the water closet.  Where located in the front partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (100 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition farthest from the water closet.  Where located in the side wall or partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (100 mm) maximum from the front partition.  The door shall be self-closing.  A door pull complying with V404.2.7 shall be placed on both sides of the door near the latch.  Toilet compartment doors shall not swing into the minimum required compartment area.

V604.8.1.3 Approach.  Compartments shall be arranged for left-hand or right-hand approach to the water closet.

V604.8.1.4 Toe Clearance.  The front partition and at least one side partition shall provide a toe clearance of 9 inches (230 mm) minimum above the finish floor and 6 inches (150 mm) deep minimum beyond the compartment-side face of the partition, exclusive of partition support members.  Compartments for children’s use shall provide a toe clearance of 12 inches (305 mm) minimum above the finish floor.

EXCEPTION:  Toe clearance at the front partition is not required in a compartment greater than 62 inches (1575 mm) deep with a wall-hung water closet or 65 inches (1650 mm) deep with a floor-mounted water closet.  Toe clearance at the side partition is not required in a compartment greater than 66 inches (1675 mm) wide.  Toe clearance at the front partition is not required in a compartment for children’s use that is greater than 65 inches (1650 mm) deep.

V604.8.1.5 Grab Bars.  Grab bars shall comply with V609.  A side-wall grab bar complying with V604.5.1 shall be provided and shall be located on the wall closest to the water closet.  In addition, a rear-wall grab bar complying with V604.5.2 shall be provided.

V604.8.2 Ambulatory Accessible Compartments.  Ambulatory accessible compartments shall comply with V604.8.2.

V604.8.2.1 Size.  Ambulatory accessible compartments shall have a depth of 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum and a width of 35 inches (890 mm) minimum and 37 inches (940 mm) maximum.

V604.8.2.2 Doors.  Toilet compartment doors, including door hardware, shall comply with V404, except that if the approach is to the latch side of the compartment door, clearance between the door side of the compartment and any obstruction shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum.  The door shall be self-closing.  A door pull complying with V404.2.7 shall be placed on both sides of the door near the latch.  Toilet compartment doors shall not swing into the minimum required compartment area.

V604.8.2.3 Grab Bars.  Grab bars shall comply with V609.  A side-wall grab bar complying with V604.5.1 shall be provided on both sides of the compartment.

V604.8.3 Coat Hooks and Shelves.  Coat hooks shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified in V308.  Shelves shall be located 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V604.9 Water Closets and Toilet Compartments for Children's Use.  Water closets and toilet compartments for children's use shall comply with V604.9.

V604.9.1 Location.  The water closet shall be located with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side.  The centerline of the water closet shall be 12 inches (305 mm) minimum and 18 inches (455 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition, except that the water closet shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition in the ambulatory accessible toilet compartment specified in V604.8.2.  Compartments shall be arranged for left-hand or right-hand approach to the water closet.

V604.9.2 Clearance.  Clearance around a water closet shall comply with V604.3.

V604.9.3 Height.  The height of water closets shall be 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 17 inches (430 mm) maximum measured to the top of the seat.  Seats shall not be sprung to return to a lifted position.

V604.9.4 Grab Bars.  Grab bars for water closets shall comply with V604.5.

V604.9.5 Flush Controls.  Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic.  Hand operated flush controls shall comply with V309.2 and V309.4 and shall be installed 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  Flush controls shall be located on the open side of the water closet except in ambulatory accessible compartments complying with V604.8.2.

V604.9.6 Dispensers.  Toilet paper dispensers shall comply with V309.4 and shall be 7 inches (180 mm) minimum and 9 inches (230 mm) maximum in front of the water closet measured to the centerline of the dispenser.  The outlet of the dispenser shall be 14 inches (355 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  There shall be a clearance of 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum below the grab bar.  Dispensers shall not be of a type that controls delivery or that does not allow continuous paper flow.

V604.9.7 Toilet Compartments.  Toilet compartments shall comply with V604.8.

V605 Urinals

V605.1 General.  Urinals shall comply with V605.

V605.2 Height and Depth.  Urinals shall be the stall-type or the wall-hung type with the rim 17 inches (430 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  Urinals shall be 13½ inches (345 mm) deep minimum measured from the outer face of the urinal rim to the back of the fixture.

V605.3 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 positioned for forward approach shall be provided.

V605.4 Flush Controls.  Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic.  Hand operated flush controls shall comply with V309.

V606 Lavatories and Sinks

V606.1 General.  Lavatories and sinks shall comply with V606.

V606.2 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305, positioned for a forward approach, and knee and toe clearance complying with V306 shall be provided.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  A parallel approach complying with V305 shall be permitted to a kitchen sink in a space where a cook top or conventional range is not provided and to wet bars.

2.  A knee clearance of 24 inches (610 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface shall be permitted at lavatories and sinks used primarily by children 6 through 12 years where the rim or counter surface is 31 inches (785 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

3.  A parallel approach complying with V305 shall be permitted to lavatories and sinks used primarily by children 5 years and younger.

4.  The dip of the overflow shall not be considered in determining knee and toe clearances.

5.  No more than one bowl of a multi-bowl sink shall be required to provide knee and toe clearance complying with V306.

V606.3 Height.  Lavatories and sinks shall be installed with the front of the higher of the rim or counter surface 34 inches (865 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V606.4 Faucets.  Controls for faucets shall comply with V309.  Hand-operated, metering faucets shall remain open for 10 seconds minimum.

V606.5 Exposed Pipes and Surfaces.  Water supply and drain pipes under lavatories and sinks shall be insulated or otherwise configured to protect against contact.  There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under lavatories and sinks.

V607 Bathtubs

V607.1 General.  Bathtubs shall comply with V607.

V607.2 Clearance.  Clearance in front of bathtubs shall extend the length of the bathtub and shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum.  A lavatory complying with V606 shall be permitted at the control end of the clearance.  Where a permanent seat is provided at the head end of the bathtub, the clearance shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the wall at the head end of the bathtub.

V607.3 Seat.  A permanent seat at the head end of the bathtub or a removable in-tub seat shall be provided.  Seats shall comply with V610.

V607.4 Grab Bars.  Grab bars for bathtubs shall comply with V609 and shall be provided in accordance with V607.4.1 or V607.4.2.

V607.4.1 Bathtubs With Permanent Seats.  For bathtubs with permanent seats, grab bars shall be provided in accordance with V607.4.1.

V607.4.1.1 Back Wall.  Two grab bars shall be installed on the back wall, one located in accordance with V609.4 and the other located 8 inches (205 mm) minimum and 10 inches (255 mm) maximum above the rim of the bathtub.  Each grab bar shall be installed 15 inches (380 mm) maximum from the head end wall and 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the control end wall.

V607.4.1.2 Control End Wall.  A grab bar 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum shall be installed on the control end wall at the front edge of the bathtub.

V607.4.2 Bathtubs Without Permanent Seats.  For bathtubs without permanent seats, grab bars shall comply with V607.4.2.

V607.4.2.1 Back Wall.  Two grab bars shall be installed on the back wall, one located in accordance with V609.4 and the other located 8 inches (205 mm) minimum and 10 inches (255 mm) maximum above the rim of the bathtub.  Each grab bar shall be 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum and shall be installed 24 inches (610 mm) maximum from the head end wall and 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the control end wall.

V607.4.2.2 Control End Wall.  A grab bar 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum shall be installed on the control end wall at the front edge of the bathtub.

V607.4.2.3 Head End Wall.  A grab bar 12 inches (305 mm) long minimum shall be installed on the head end wall at the front edge of the bathtub.

V607.5 Controls.  Controls, other than drain stoppers, shall be located on an end wall.  Controls shall be between the bathtub rim and grab bar, and between the open side of the bathtub and the centerline of the width of the bathtub.  Controls shall comply with V309.4.

V607.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water.  A shower spray unit with a hose 59 inches (1500 mm) long minimum that can be used both as a fixed-position shower head and as a hand-held shower shall be provided.  The shower spray unit shall have an on/off control with a non-positive shut-off.  If an adjustable-height shower head on a vertical bar is used, the bar shall be installed so as not to obstruct the use of grab bars.  Bathtub shower spray units shall deliver water that is 120° F (49°C) maximum.

V607.7 Bathtub Enclosures.  Enclosures for bathtubs shall not obstruct controls, faucets, shower and spray units or obstruct transfer from wheelchairs onto bathtub seats or into bathtubs.  Enclosures on bathtubs shall not have tracks installed on the rim of the open face of the bathtub.

V608 Shower Compartments and Rinsing Showers

V608.1 General.  Shower compartments and rinsing showers shall comply with V608.

V608.2 Size and Clearances for Shower Compartments and Rinsing Showers.  Shower compartments and rinsing showers shall have sizes and clearances complying with V608.2.

V608.2.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartments.  Transfer type shower compartments shall be 36 inches (915 mm) by 36 inches (915 mm) clear inside dimensions measured at the center points of opposing sides and shall have a 36 inch (915 mm) wide minimum entry on the face of the shower compartment.  Clearance of 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum by 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum measured from the control wall shall be provided.

V608.2.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartments.  Standard roll-in type shower compartments shall be 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) deep minimum clear inside dimensions measured at center points of opposing sides and shall have a 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum entry on the face of the shower compartment.

608.2.2.1 Clearance.  A 30 inch (760 mm) wide minimum by 60 inch (1525 mm) long minimum clearance shall be provided adjacent to the open face of the shower compartment. 

EXCEPTION:  A lavatory complying with V606 shall be permitted on one 30 inch (760 mm) wide minimum side of the clearance provided that it is not on the side of the clearance adjacent to the controls or, where provided, not on the side of the clearance adjacent to the shower seat.

V608.2.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartments.  Alternate roll-in type shower compartments shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide and 60 inches (1525 mm) deep minimum clear inside dimensions measured at center points of opposing sides.  A 36 inch (915 mm) wide minimum entry shall be provided at one end of the long side of the compartment.

V608.2.4 Rinsing Showers.  Rinsing showers shall provide a 60 inch (1525 mm) diameter minimum circular clear deck space.

V608.3 Grab Bars.  Grab bars shall comply with V609 and shall be provided in accordance with V608.3.  Where multiple grab bars are used, required horizontal grab bars shall be installed at the same height above the finish deck surface.

V608.3.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartments.  In transfer type compartments, grab bars shall be provided across the control wall and back wall to a point 18 inches (455 mm) from the control wall.

V608.3.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartments.  Where a seat is provided in standard roll-in type shower compartments, grab bars shall be provided on the back wall and the side wall opposite the seat.  Grab bars shall not be provided above the seat.  Where a seat is not provided in standard roll-in type shower compartments, grab bars shall be provided on three walls.  Grab bars shall be installed 6 inches (150 mm) maximum from adjacent walls. 

V 608.3.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartments.  In alternate roll-in type shower compartments, grab bars shall be provided on the back wall and the side wall farthest from the compartment entry.  Grab bars shall not be provided above the seat.  Grab bars shall be installed 6 inches (150 mm) maximum from adjacent walls. 

V608.3.4 Rinsing Showers.  Grab bars for rinsing showers shall comply with V609 and shall be provided in accordance with V608.3.4.1, V608.3.4.2, or V608.3.4.3.

V608.3.4.1 Vertical Grab Bar.  Where the shower head is mounted on a post, a vertical grab shall be provided under the shower head.  The grab bar shall start at a point at or below the minimum grab bar mounting height in V609 and shall extend to within at least 3 inches (75 mm) of the shower head.

V608.3.4.2 Circular Grab Bar.  Where the shower head is mounted on a post, a circular grab bar that surrounds the usable part of the post shall be provided.

V608.3.4.3 Horizontal Grab Bar.  Where the shower head is mounted on a post or a wall, a horizontal grab bar extending 18 inches (455 mm) minimum in both directions from the center line of the shower head shall be provided.

V608.4 Seats.  A folding or non-folding seat shall be provided in transfer type shower compartments.  A folding seat shall be provided in roll-in type showers required inguest rooms with mobility features complying with V806.2.  Seats shall comply with V610.  Seats shall not be provided in rinsing showers unless the rinsing showers meet the criteria in V608 for transfer-type, standard roll-in type, or alternate roll-in type showers.

V608.5 Controls.  Controls, faucets, and shower spray units shall comply with V309.4.  Where provided in rinsing showers, controls, faucets, and shower spray units shall comply with V309.

V608.5.1 Transfer Type Shower Compartments.  In transfer type shower compartments, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be installed on the side wall opposite the seat 38 inches (965 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the shower deck surface and shall be located on the control wall 15 inches (380 mm) maximum from the centerline of the seat toward the shower opening.

V608.5.2 Standard Roll-In Type Shower Compartments.  In standard roll-in type shower compartments, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) above the shower deck surface.  Where a seat is provided, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be installed on the back wall adjacent to the seat wall and shall be located 27 inches (685 mm) maximum from the seat wall.

V608.5.3 Alternate Roll-In Type Shower Compartments.  In alternate roll-in type shower compartments, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) above the shower deck surface.  Where a seat is provided, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be located on the side wall adjacent to the seat 27 inches (685 mm) maximum from the side wall behind the seat or shall be located on the back wall opposite the seat 15 inches (380 mm) maximum, left or right, of the centerline of the seat.  Where a seat is not provided, the controls, faucets, and shower spray unit shall be installed on the side wall farthest from the compartment entry.

V608.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water.  A shower spray unit with a hose 59 inches (1500 mm) long minimum that can be used both as a fixed-position shower head and as a hand-held shower shall be provided.  The shower spray unit shall have an on/off control with a non-positive shut-off.  If an adjustable-height shower head on a vertical bar is used, the bar shall be installed so as not to obstruct the use of grab bars.  Shower spray units shall deliver water that is 120°F (49°C) maximum.

EXCEPTION:  A fixed shower head located at 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the shower finish deck surface shall be permitted instead of a hand-held spray unit in facilities that are not medical care facilities or guest rooms.

V608.7 Thresholds.  Thresholds in roll-in type shower compartments shall be ½ inch (13 mm) high maximum in accordance with V303.  In transfer type shower compartments, thresholds ½ inch (13 mm) high maximum shall be beveled, rounded, or vertical.

EXCEPTION:  A threshold 2 inches (51 mm) high maximum shall be permitted in transfer type shower compartments in existing facilities where provision of a ½ inch (13 mm) high threshold would disturb the structural integrity of the deck surface.

V608.8 Shower Enclosures.  Enclosures for shower compartments shall not obstruct controls, faucets, and shower spray units or obstruct transfer from wheelchairs onto shower seats.

V609 Grab Bars

V609.1 General.  Grab bars in toilet facilities and bathing facilities shall comply with V609.

V609.2 Cross Section.  Grab bars shall have a cross section complying with V609.2.1 or V609.2.2.

V609.2.1 Circular Cross Section.  Grab bars with circular cross sections shall have an outside diameter of 1¼ inches (32 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum.

V609.2.2 Non-Circular Cross Section.  Grab bars with non-circular cross sections shall have a cross-section dimension of 2 inches (51 mm) maximum and a perimeter dimension of 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 4.8 inches (120 mm) maximum.

V609.3 Spacing.  The space between the wall and the grab bar shall be 1½ inches (38 mm).  At rinsing showers, if grab bars are installed on posts, the space between the post and grab bar shall be 1½ inches (38 mm).  The space between the grab bar and projecting objects below and at the ends shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum.  The space between the grab bar and projecting objects above shall be 12 inches (305 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION:  The space between the grab bars and shower controls, shower fittings, and other grab bars above shall be permitted to be 1½ inches (38 mm) minimum.

V609.4 Position of Grab Bars.  Grab bars shall be installed in a horizontal position, 33 inches (840 mm) minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface measured to the top of the gripping surface, except that at water closets for children's use complying with V604.9, grab bars shall be installed in a horizontal position 18 inches (455 mm) minimum and 27 inches (685 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface measured to the top of the gripping surface.  The height of the lower grab bar on the back wall of a bathtub shall comply with V607.4.1.1 or V607.4.2.1.

V609.5 Surface Hazards.  Grab bars and any wall or other surfaces adjacent to grab bars shall be free of sharp or abrasive elements and shall have rounded edges.

V609.6 Fittings.  Grab bars shall not rotate within their fittings.

V609.7 Installation.  Grab bars shall be installed in any manner that provides a gripping surface at the specified locations and that does not obstruct the required clear deck space.

V609.8 Structural Strength.  Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the grab bar, fastener, mounting device, or supporting structure.

V610 Seats

V610.1 General.  Seats in bathtubs and shower compartments shall comply with V610.

V610.2 Bathtub Seats.  The top of bathtub seats shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the bathroom finish deck surface.  The depth of a removable in-tub seat shall be 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum.  The seat shall be capable of secure placement.  Permanent seats at the head end of the bathtub shall be 15 inches (380 mm) deep minimum and shall extend from the back wall to or beyond the outer edge of the bathtub.

V610.3 Shower Compartment Seats.  Where a seat is provided in a standard roll-in shower compartment, it shall be a folding type, shall be installed on the side wall adjacent to the controls, and shall extend from the back wall to a point within 3 inches (75 mm) of the compartment entry.  Where a seat is provided in an alternate roll-in type shower compartment, it shall be a folding type, shall be installed on the front wall opposite the back wall, and shall extend from the adjacent side wall to a point within 3 inches (75 mm) of the compartment entry.  In transfer type showers, the seat shall extend from the back wall to a point within 3 inches (75 mm) of the compartment entry.  The top of the seat shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the bathroom finish deck surface.  Seats shall comply with V610.3.1 or V610.3.2.

V610.3.1 Rectangular Seats.  The rear edge of a rectangular seat shall be 2½ inches (64 mm) maximum and the front edge 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum from the seat wall.  The side edge of the seat shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) maximum from the adjacent wall.

V610.3.2 L-Shaped Seats.  The rear edge of an L-shaped seat shall be 2½ inches (64 mm) maximum and the front edge 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum from the seat wall.  The rear edge of the "L" portion of the seat shall be 1½ inches (38 mm) maximum from the wall and the front edge shall be 14 inches (355 mm) minimum and 15 inches (380 mm) maximum from the wall.  The end of the "L" shall be 22 inches (560 mm) minimum and 23 inches maximum (585 mm) from the main seat wall.

V610.4 Structural Strength.  Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the seat, fastener, mounting device, or supporting structure.

V611 Washing Machines and Clothes Dryers

V611.1 General.  Washing machines and clothes dryers shall comply with V611.

V611.2 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 positioned for parallel approach shall be provided.  The clear deck space shall be centered on the appliance.

V611.3 Operable Parts.  Operable parts, including doors, lint screens, and detergent and bleach compartments shall comply with V309.

V611.4 Height.  Top loading machines shall have the door to the laundry compartment located 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  Front loading machines shall have the bottom of the opening to the laundry compartment located 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V612 Saunas and Steam Rooms

V612.1 General.  Saunas and steam rooms shall comply with V612.

V612.2 Bench.  Where seating is provided in saunas and steam rooms, at least one bench shall comply with V903.  Doors shall not swing into the clear deck space required by V903.2.

EXCEPTION:  A readily removable bench shall be permitted to obstruct the turning space required by V612.3 and the clear deck space required by V903.2.

V612.3 Turning Space.  A turning space complying with V304 shall be provided within saunas and steam rooms.
 

 

CHAPTER 7: COMMUNICATION ELEMENTS AND FEATURES

V701 General

V701.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 7 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V702 Emergency Alarm Systems

V702.1 General.  Emergency alarm systemsshall have permanently installed audible and visible alarms complying with NFPA 72 (1999 or 2002 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1), except that the maximum allowable sound level of audible notification appliances complying with section 4-3.2.1 of NFPA 72 (1999 edition) shall have a sound level no more than 110 dB at the minimum hearing distance from the audible appliance.  In addition, alarms in guest rooms required to provide communication features shall comply with sections 4-3 and 4-4 of NFPA 72 (1999 edition) or sections 7.4 and 7.5 of NFPA 72 (2002 edition).

EXCEPTION:  Emergency alarm systems in medical care facilities shall be permitted to be provided in accordance with industry practice.

V703 Signs

V703.1 General.  Signs shall comply with V703.  Where both visual and tactile characters are required, either one sign with both visual and tactile characters, or two separate signs, one with visual, and one with tactile characters, shall be provided.

V703.2 Raised Characters.  Raised characters shall comply with V703.2 and shall be duplicated in braille complying with V703.3.  Raised characters shall be installed in accordance with V703.4.

V703.2.1 Depth.  Raised characters shall be 1/32 inch (0.8 mm) minimum above their background.

V703.2.2 Case.  Characters shall be uppercase.

V703.2.3 Style.  Characters shall be sans serif.  Characters shall not be italic, oblique, script, highly decorative, or of other unusual forms.

V703.2.4 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".

V703.2.5 Character Height.  Character height measured vertically from the baseline of the character shall be e inch (16 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum based on the height of the uppercase letter "I".

EXCEPTION:  Where separate raised and visual characters with the same information are provided, raised character height shall be permitted to be ½ inch (13 mm) minimum.

V703.2.6 Stroke Thickness.  Stroke thickness of the uppercase letter "I" shall be 15 percent maximum of the height of the character.

V703.2.7 Character Spacing.  Character spacing shall be measured between the two closest points of adjacent raised characters within a message, excluding word spaces.  Where characters have rectangular cross sections, spacing between individual raised characters shall be c inch (3.2 mm) minimum and 4 times the raised character stroke width maximum.  Where characters have other cross sections, spacing between individual raised characters shall be 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) minimum and 4 times the raised character stroke width maximum at the base of the cross sections, and c inch (3.2 mm) minimum and 4 times the raised character stroke width maximum at the top of the cross sections.  Characters shall be separated from raised borders and decorative elements d inch (9.5 mm) minimum.

V703.2.8 Line Spacing.  Spacing between the baselines of separate lines of raised characters within a message shall be 135 percent minimum and 170 percent maximum of the raised character height.

V703.3 Braille.  Braille shall be contracted (Grade 2) and shall comply with V703.3 and V703.4.

V703.3.1 Dimensions and Capitalization.  Braille dots shall have a domed or rounded shape and shall comply with Table V703.3.1.  The indication of an uppercase letter or letters shall only be used before the first word of sentences, proper nouns and names, individual letters of the alphabet, initials, and acronyms.

Table V703.3.1 Braille Dimensions

1.  measured center-to-center

V703.3.2 Position.  Braille shall be positioned below the corresponding text.  If text is multi-lined, braille shall be placed below the entire text.  Braille shall be separated d inch (9.5 mm) minimum from any other tactile characters and d inch (9.5 mm) minimum from raised borders and decorative elements.

EXCEPTION:  Braille provided on elevator car controls shall be separated 3/16 inch (4.8 mm) minimum and shall be located either directly below or adjacent to the corresponding raised characters or symbols.

V703.4 Installation Height and Location.  Signs with tactile characters shall comply with V703.4.

V703.4.1 Height Above Finish Deck Surface.  Tactile characters on signs shall be located 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface, measured from the baseline of the lowest tactile character and 60 inches (1525 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface, measured from the baseline of the highest tactile character.

EXCEPTION:  Tactile characters for elevator car controls shall not be required to comply with V703.4.1.

V703.4.2 Location.  Where a tactile sign is provided at a door, the sign shall be located alongside the door at the latch side.  Where a tactile sign is provided at double doors with one active leaf, the sign shall be located on the inactive leaf.  Where a tactile sign is provided at double doors with two active leafs, the sign shall be located to the right of the right hand door.  Where there is no wall space at the latch side of a single door or at the right side of double doors, signs shall be located on the nearest adjacent wall.  Signs containing tactile characters shall be located so that a clear deck space of 18 inches (455 mm) minimum by 18 inches (455 mm) minimum, centered on the tactile characters, is provided beyond the arc of any door swing between the closed position and 45 degree open position.

EXCEPTION:  Signs with tactile characters shall be permitted on the push side of doors with closers and without hold-open devices.

V703.5 Visual Characters.  Visual characters shall comply with V703.5.

EXCEPTION:  Where visual characters comply with V703.2 and are accompanied by braille complying with V703.3, they shall not be required to comply with V703.5.2 through V703.5.9.

V703.5.1 Finish and Contrast.  Characters and their background shall have a non-glare finish.  Characters shall contrast with their background with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters on a light background.

V703.5.2 Case.  Characters shall be uppercase or lowercase or a combination of both.

V703.5.3 Style.  Characters shall be conventional in form.  Characters shall not be italic, oblique, script, highly decorative, or of other unusual forms.

V703.5.4 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".

V703.5.5 Character Height.  Minimum character height shall comply with Table V703.5.5.  Viewing distance shall be measured as the horizontal distance between the character and an obstruction preventing further approach towards the sign.  Character height shall be based on the uppercase letter "I".

Table V703.5.5 Visual Character Height (text version)

V703.5.6 Height From Finish Deck Surface.  Visual characters shall be 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Visual characters indicating elevator car controls shall not be required to comply with V703.5.6.

2.  This requirement does not apply where the administrative authority requires signs to be mounted below 40 inches (1015 mm).

V703.5.7 Stroke Thickness.  Stroke thickness of the uppercase letter "I" shall be 10 percent minimum and 30 percent maximum of the height of the character.

V703.5.8 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.

V703.5.9 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.

V703.6 Pictograms.  Pictograms shall comply with V703.6.

V703.6.1 Pictogram Field.  Pictograms shall have a field height of 6 inches (150 mm) minimum.  Characters and braille shall not be located in the pictogram field.

V703.6.2 Finish and Contrast.  Pictograms and their field shall have a non-glare finish.  Pictograms shall contrast with their field with either a light pictogram on a dark field or a dark pictogram on a light field.

V703.6.3 Text Descriptors.  Pictograms shall have text descriptors located directly below the pictogram field.  Text descriptors shall comply with V703.2, V703.3 and V703.4.

V703.7 Symbols of Accessibility.  Symbols of accessibility shall comply with V703.7.

V703.7.1 Finish and Contrast.  Symbols of accessibility and their background shall have a non-glare finish.  Symbols of accessibility shall contrast with their background with either a light symbol on a dark background or a dark symbol on a light background.

V703.7.2 Symbols.

V703.7.2.1 International Symbol of Accessibility.  The International Symbol of Accessibility shall comply with Figure V703.7.2.1.

V703.7.2.2 Assistive Listening Systems.  Assistive listening systems shall be identified by the International Symbol of Access for Hearing Loss complying with Figure V703.7.2.2

V703.7.2.3 Volume Control Telephones.  Telephones with a volume control shall be identified by a pictogram of a telephone handset with radiating sound waves on a square field such as shown in Figure V703.7.2.3.

V704 Telephones

V704.1 General.  Public telephones shall comply with V704.

V704.2 Wheelchair Accessible Telephones.  Wheelchair accessible telephones shall comply with V704.2.

V704.2.1 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided.  The clear deck space shall not be obstructed by bases, enclosures, or seats.

V704.2.1.1 Parallel Approach.  Where a parallel approach is provided, the distance from the edge of the telephone enclosure to the face of the telephone unit shall be 10 inches (255 mm) maximum.

V704.2.1.2 Forward Approach.  Where a forward approach is provided, the distance from the front edge of a counter within the telephone enclosure to the face of the telephone unit shall be 20 inches (510 mm) maximum.

V704.2.2 Operable Parts.  Operable parts shall comply with V309.  Telephones shall have push-button controls where such service is available.

V704.2.3 Telephone Directories.  Telephone directories, where provided, shall be located in accordance with V309.

V704.2.4 Cord Length.  The cord from the telephone to the handset shall be 29 inches (735 mm) long minimum.

V704.3 Volume Control Telephones.  Public telephones required to have volume controls shall be equipped with a receive volume control that provides a gain adjustable up to 20 dB minimum.  For incremental volume control, provide at least one intermediate step of 12 dB of gain minimum.  An automatic reset shall be provided.

V704.4 TTYs.  TTYs required at a public telephone shall be permanently affixed within, or adjacent to, the telephone enclosure.  Where an acoustic coupler is used, the telephone cord shall be sufficiently long to allow connection of the TTY and the telephone receiver.

V704.4.1 Height.  When in use, the touch surface of TTY keypads shall be 34 inches (865 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface.

EXCEPTION:  Where seats are provided, TTYs shall not be required to comply with V704.4.1.

 

V705 Two-Way Communication Systems

V705.1 General.  Two-way communication systems shall comply with V705.

V705.2 Audible and Visual Indicators.  The system shall provide both audible and visual signals.

V705.3 Handsets.  Handset cords, if provided, shall be 29 inches (735 mm) long minimum.

V706 Assistive Listening Systems

V706.1 General.  Assistive listening systems shall comply with V706.

V706.2 Receiver Jacks.  Receivers required for use with an assistive listening system shall include a c inch (3.2 mm) standard mono jack.

V706.3 Receiver Hearing-Aid Compatibility.  Receivers required to be hearing-aid compatible shall interface with telecoils in hearing aids through the provision of neckloops.

V706.4 Sound Pressure Level.  Assistive listening systems shall be capable of providing a sound pressure level of 110 dB minimum and 118 dB maximum with a dynamic range on the volume control of 50 dB.

V706.5 Signal-to-Noise Ratio.  The signal-to-noise ratio for internally generated noise in assistive listening systems shall be 18 dB minimum.

V706.6 Peak Clipping Level.  Peak clipping shall not exceed 18 dB of clipping relative to the peaks of speech.

V707 Automatic Teller Machines and Fare Machines

V707.1 General.  Automatic teller machines and fare machines shall comply with V707.

V707.2 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided.

V707.3 Operable Parts.  Operable parts shall comply with V309.  Unless a clear or correct key is provided, each operable part shall be able to be differentiated by sound or touch, without activation.

V707.4 Privacy.  Automatic teller machines shall provide the opportunity for the same degree of privacy of input and output available to all individuals.

V707.5 Speech Output.  Machines shall be speech enabled.  Operating instructions and orientation, visible transaction prompts, user input verification, error messages, and all displayed information for full use shall be accessible to and independently usable by individuals with vision impairments.  Speech shall be delivered through a mechanism that is readily available to all users, including but not limited to, an industry standard connector or a telephone handset.  Speech shall be recorded or digitized human, or synthesized.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Audible tones shall be permitted instead of speech for visible output that is not displayed for security purposes, including but not limited to, asterisks representing personal identification numbers.

2.  Advertisements and other similar information shall not be required to be audible unless they convey information that can be used in the transaction being conducted.

3.  Where speech synthesis cannot be supported, dynamic alphabetic output shall not be required to be audible.

V707.5.1 User Control.  Speech shall be capable of being repeated or interrupted.  Volume control shall be provided for the speech function.

EXCEPTION:  Speech output for any single function shall be permitted to be automatically interrupted when a transaction is selected.

V707.5.2 Receipts.  Where receipts are provided, speech output devices shall provide audible balance inquiry information, error messages, and all other information on the printed receipt necessary to complete or verify the transaction.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Machine location, date and time of transaction, customer account number, and the machine identifier shall not be required to be audible.

2.  Information on printed receipts that duplicates information available on-screen shall not be required to be presented in the form of an audible receipt.

3.  Printed copies of bank statements and checks shall not be required to be audible.

V707.6 Input.  Input devices shall comply with V707.6.

V707.6.1 Input Controls.  At least one tactilely discernible input control shall be provided for each function.  Where provided, key surfaces not on active areas of display screens, shall be raised above surrounding surfaces.  Where membrane keys are the only method of input, each shall be tactilely discernable from surrounding surfaces and adjacent keys.

V707.6.2 Numeric Keys.  Numeric keys shall be arranged in a 12-key ascending or descending telephone keypad layout.  The number five key shall be tactilely distinct from the other keys.

V707.6.3 Function Keys.  Function keys shall comply with V707.6.3.

V707.6.3.1 Contrast.  Function keys shall contrast visually from background surfaces.  Characters and symbols on key surfaces shall contrast visually from key surfaces.  Visual contrast shall be either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

EXCEPTION:  Tactile symbols required by V707.6.3.2 shall not be required to comply with V707.6.3.1.

V707.6.3.2 Tactile Symbols.  Function key surfaces shall have tactile symbols as follows: Enter or Proceed key: raised circle; Clear or Correct key: raised left arrow; Cancel key: raised letter ex; Add Value key: raised plus sign; Decrease Value key: raised minus sign.

V707.7 Display Screen.  The display screen shall comply with V707.7.

V707.7.1 Visibility.  The display screen shall be visible from a point located 40 inches (1015 mm) above the center of the clear deck space in front of the machine.

V707.7.2 Characters.  Characters displayed on the screen shall be in a sans serif font.  Characters shall be 3/16 inch (4.8 mm) high minimum based on the uppercase letter "I".  Characters shall contrast with their background with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters on a light background.

V707.8 Braille Instructions.  Braille instructions for initiating the speech mode shall be provided.  Braille shall comply with V703.3.
 

 

CHAPTER 8: SPECIAL ROOMS, SPACES, AND ELEMENTS

V801 General

V801.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 8 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V802 Wheelchair Spaces, Companion Seats, and Designated Aisle Seats

V802.1 Wheelchair Spaces.  Wheelchair spaces shall comply with V802.1.

V802.1.1 Deck Surface.  The deck surface of wheelchair spaces shall comply with V302.  Changes in level are not permitted.

EXCEPTION:  Slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be permitted.

V802.1.2 Width.  A single wheelchair space shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.  Where two adjacent wheelchair spaces are provided, each wheelchair space shall be 33 inches (840 mm) wide minimum.

V802.1.3 Depth.  Where a wheelchair space can be entered from the front or rear, the wheelchair space shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) deep minimum.  Where a wheelchair space can be entered only from the side, the wheelchair space shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) deep minimum.

V802.1.4 Approach.  Wheelchair spaces shall adjoin accessible routes.  Accessible routes shall not overlap wheelchair spaces.

V802.1.5 Overlap.  Wheelchair spaces shall not overlap circulation paths.

V802.2 Lines of Sight.  Lines of sight to the screen, or performance area, for spectators in wheelchair spaces shall comply with V802.2.

V 802.2.1 Lines of Sight Over Seated Spectators.  Where spectators are expected to remain seated during events, spectators in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight complying with V802.2.1.

V802.2.1.1 Lines of Sight Over Heads.  Where spectators are provided lines of sight over the heads of spectators seated in the first row in front of their seats, spectators seated in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the heads of seated spectators in the first row in front of wheelchair spaces.

V802.2.1.2 Lines of Sight Between Heads.  Where spectators are provided lines of sight over the shoulders and between the heads of spectators seated in the first row in front of their seats, spectators seated in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the shoulders and between the heads of seated spectators in the first row in front of wheelchair spaces.

V802.2.2 Lines of Sight Over Standing Spectators.  Where spectators are expected to stand during events, spectators in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight complying with V802.2.2.

V802.2.2.1 Lines of Sight Over Heads.  Where standing spectators are provided lines of sight over the heads of spectators standing in the first row in front of their seats, spectators seated in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the heads of standing spectators in the first row in front of wheelchair spaces.

V802.2.2.2 Lines of Sight Between Heads.  Where standing spectators are provided lines of sight over the shoulders and between the heads of spectators standing in the first row in front of their seats, spectators seated in wheelchair spaces shall be afforded lines of sight over the shoulders and between the heads of standing spectators in the first row in front of wheelchair spaces.

V802.3 Companion Seats.  Companion seats shall comply with V802.3.

V802.3.1 Alignment.  In row seating, companion seats shall be located to provide shoulder alignment with adjacent wheelchair spaces.  The shoulder alignment point of the wheelchair space shall be measured 36 inches (915 mm) from the front of the wheelchair space.  The deck surface of the companion seat shall be at the same elevation as the deck surface of the wheelchair space.

V802.3.2 Type.  Companion seats shall be equivalent in size, quality, comfort, and amenities to the seating in the immediate area.  Companion seats shall be permitted to be movable.

V802.4 Designated Aisle Seats.  Designated aisle seats shall comply with V802.4.

V802.4.1 Armrests.  Where armrests are provided on the seating in the immediate area, folding or retractable armrests shall be provided on the aisle side of the seat.

V802.4.2 Identification.  Each designated aisle seat shall be identified by a sign or marker.

V803 Dressing, Fitting, and Locker Rooms

V803.1 General.  Dressing, fitting, and locker rooms shall comply with V803.

V803.2 Turning Space.  Turning space complying with V304 shall be provided within the room.

V803.3 Door Swing.  Doors shall not swing into the room unless a clear deck space complying with V305.3 is provided, beyond the arc of the door swing.

V803.4 Benches.  A bench complying with V903 shall be provided within the room.

V803.5 Coat Hooks and Shelves.  Coat hooks provided within the room shall be located within one of the reach ranges specified in V308.  Shelves shall be 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V804 Kitchens and Kitchenettes

V804.1 General.  Kitchens and kitchenettes shall comply with V804.

V804.2 Clearance.  Where a pass through kitchen is provided, clearances shall comply with V804.2.1.  Where a U-shaped kitchen is provided, clearances shall comply with V804.2.2.

EXCEPTION:  Spaces that do not provide a cooktop or conventional range shall not be required to comply with V804.2.

V804.2.1 Pass Through Kitchen.  In pass through kitchens where counters, appliances, or cabinets are on two opposing sides, or where counters, appliances, or cabinets are opposite a parallel wall, clearance between all opposing base cabinets, counter tops, appliances, or walls within kitchen work areas shall be 40 inches (1015 mm) minimum.  Pass through kitchens shall have two entries.

V804.2.2 U-Shaped.  In U-shaped kitchens enclosed on three contiguous sides, clearance between all opposing base cabinets, counter tops, appliances, or walls within kitchen work areas shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

V804.3 Kitchen Work Surface.  Where counters are provided, at least one 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum section of counter shall provide a work surface that complies with V902.3.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided that is centered on the work surface and positioned for a forward approach or parallel approach.

V804.4 Sinks.  Sinks shall comply with V606.

V804.5 Storage.  At least 50 percent of shelf space in storage facilities shall comply with V808.

V804.6 Appliances.  Where provided, kitchen appliances shall comply with V804.6.

V804.6.1 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided at each kitchen appliance.  Clear deck spaces shall be permitted to overlap.

V804.6.2 Operable Parts.  All appliance controls shall comply with V309.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Appliance doors and door latching devices shall not be required to comply with V309.4.

2.  Bottom-hinged appliance doors, when in the open position, shall not be required to comply with V309.3.

V804.6.3 Dishwasher.  Clear deck space shall be positioned adjacent to the dishwasher door.  The dishwasher door, in the open position, shall not obstruct the clear deck space for the dishwasher or the sink.

V804.6.4 Range or Cooktop.  Where a forward approach is provided, the clear deck space shall provide knee and toe clearance complying with V306.  Where knee and toe space is provided, the underside of the range or cooktop shall be insulated or otherwise configured to prevent burns, abrasions, or electrical shock.  The location of controls shall not require reaching across burners.

V804.6.5 Oven.  Ovens shall comply with V804.6.5.

V804.6.5.1 Side-Hinged Door Ovens.  Side-hinged door ovens shall have the work surface required by V804.3 positioned adjacent to the latch side of the oven door.

V804.6.5.2 Bottom-Hinged Door Ovens.  Bottom-hinged door ovens shall have the work surface required by V804.3 positioned adjacent to one side of the door.

V804.6.5.3 Controls.  Ovens shall have controls on front panels.

V804.6.6 Refrigerator/Freezer.  Combination refrigerators and freezers shall have at least 50 percent of the freezer space 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  The clear deck space shall be positioned for a parallel approach to the space dedicated to a refrigerator/freezer with the centerline of the clear deck space offset 24 inches (610 mm) maximum from the centerline of the dedicated space.

V805 Medical Care Facilities

V805.1 General.  Medical care facility patient sleeping rooms required to provide mobility features shall comply with V805.

V805.2 Turning Space.  Turning space complying with V304 shall be provided within the room.

V805.3 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided on each side of the bed.  The clear deck space shall be positioned for a parallel approach to the side of the bed.

V805.4 Toilet and Bathing Rooms.  Toilet and bathing rooms that are provided as part of a patient sleeping room shall comply with V603.  Where provided, no fewer than one water closet, one lavatory, and one bathtub or shower shall comply with the applicable requirements of V603 through V610.

V806 Passenger Guest Rooms

V806.1 General.  Guest rooms shall comply with V806.  Guest rooms required to provide mobility features shall comply with V806.2.  Guest rooms required to provide communication features shall comply with V806.3.

V806.2 Guest Rooms with Mobility Features.  Guest rooms required to provide mobility features shall comply with V806.2.

V806.2.1 Living and Dining Areas.  Living and dining areas shall be accessible.

V806.2.2 Exterior Spaces.  Exterior spaces, including patios, terraces and balconies, that serve the guest room shall be accessible.

V806.2.3 Sleeping Areas.  At least one sleeping area shall provide a clear deck space complying with V305 on both sides of a bed.  The clear deck space shall be positioned for parallel approach to the side of the bed.

EXCEPTION:  Where a single clear deck space complying with V305 positioned for parallel approach is provided between two beds, a clear deck space shall not be required on both sides of a bed.

V806.2.4 Toilet and Bathing Facilities.  No fewer than one water closet, one lavatory, and one bathtub or shower shall comply with V603.  In addition, required roll-in shower compartments shall comply with V608.2.2 or V608.2.3.

V806.2.4.1 Vanity Counter Top Space.  If vanity counter top space is provided in non-accessible guest toilet or bathing rooms, comparable vanity counter top space, in terms of size and proximity to the lavatory, shall also be provided in accessible guest toilet or bathing rooms.

V806.2.5 Kitchens and Kitchenettes.  Kitchens and kitchenettes shall comply with V804.

V806.2.6 Turning Space.  Turning space complying with V304 shall be provided within the guest room.

V806.2.7 Doors to Adjacent Guest Rooms.  Where provided, doors that connect adjacent guest rooms shall comply with V404.

V806.3 Guest Rooms with Communication Features.  Guest rooms required to provide communication features shall comply with V806.3.

V806.3.1 Alarms.  Where emergency warning systems are provided, alarms complying with V702 shall be provided.

V806.3.2 Notification Devices.  Visible notification devices shall be provided to alert room occupants of incoming telephone calls and a door knock or bell.  Notification devices shall not be connected to visible alarm signal appliances.  Telephones shall have volume controls compatible with the telephone system and shall comply with V704.3.  Telephones shall be served by an electrical outlet complying with V309 located within 48 inches (1220 mm) of the telephone to facilitate the use of a TTY.

V807 Cells

V807.1 General.  Cells shall comply with V807.

V807.2 Cells with Mobility Features.  Cells required to provide mobility features shall comply with V807.2.

V807.2.1 Turning Space.  Turning space complying with V304 shall be provided within the cell.

V807.2.2 Benches.  Where benches are provided, at least one bench shall comply with V903.

V807.2.3 Beds.  Where beds are provided, clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided on at least one side of the bed.  The clear deck space shall be positioned for parallel approach to the side of the bed.

V807.2.4 Toilet and Bathing Facilities.  Toilet facilities or bathing facilities that are provided as part of a cell shall comply with V603.  Where provided, no fewer than one water closet, one lavatory, and one bathtub or shower shall comply with the applicable requirements of V603 through V610.

V807.3 Cells with Communication Features.  Cells required to provide communication features shall comply with V807.3.

V807.3.1 Alarms.  Where audible emergency alarm systems are provided to serve the occupants of cells, visible alarms complying with V702 shall be provided.

EXCEPTION:  Visible alarms shall not be required where detainees are not allowed independent means of egress.

V807.3.2 Telephones.  Telephones, where provided within cells, shall have volume controls complying with V704.3.

V808 Storage

V808.1 General.  Storage shall comply with V808.

V808.2 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided.

V808.3 Height.  Storage elements shall comply with at least one of the reach ranges specified in V308.

V808.4 Operable Parts.  Operable parts shall comply with V309.
 

 

CHAPTER 9: BUILT-IN ELEMENTS

V901 General

V901.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 9 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V902 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces

V902.1 General.  Dining surfaces and work surfaces shall comply with V902.2 and V902.3.

EXCEPTION:  Dining surfaces and work surfaces for children’s use shall be permitted to comply with V902.4.

V902.2 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 positioned for a forward approach shall be provided.  Knee and toe clearance complying with V306 shall be provided.

V902.3 Height.  The tops of dining surfaces and work surfaces shall be 28 inches (710 mm) minimum and 34 inches (865 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V902.4 Dining Surfaces and Work Surfaces for Children’s Use.  Accessible dining surfaces and work surfaces for children’s use shall comply with V902.4.

EXCEPTION:  Dining surfaces and work surfaces that are used primarily by children, 5 years and younger, shall not be required to comply with V902.4 where a clear deck space complying with V305 positioned for a parallel approach is provided.

V902.4.1 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space complying with V305 positioned for a forward approach shall be provided.  Knee and toe clearance complying with V306 shall be provided, except that knee clearance 24 inches (610 mm) minimum above the finish deck surface shall be permitted.

V902.4.2 Height.  The tops of tables and counters shall be 26 inches (660 mm) minimum and 30 inches (760 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V903 Benches

V903.1 General.  Benches shall comply with V903.

V903.2 Clear Deck Space.  Clear deck space complying with V305 shall be provided and shall be positioned at the end of the bench seat and parallel to the short axis of the bench.

V903.3 Size.  Benches shall have seats that are 42 inches (1065 mm) long minimum and 20 inches (510 mm) deep minimum and 24 inches (610 mm).deep maximum.

V903.4 Back Support.  The bench shall provide for back support or shall be affixed to a wall.  Back support shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) long minimum and shall extend from a point 2 inches (51 mm) maximum above the seat surface to a point 18 inches (455 mm) minimum above the seat surface.  Back support shall be 2½ inches (64 mm) maximum from the rear edge of the seat measured horizontally.

V903.5 Height.  The top of the bench seat surface shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V903.6 Structural Strength.  Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the seat, fastener, mounting device, or supporting structure.

V903.7 Wet Locations.  Where installed in wet locations, the surface of the seat shall be slip resistant and shall not accumulate water.

V904 Sales and Service Counters

V904.1 General.  Check-out aisles and sales and service counters shall comply with the applicable requirements of V904.

V904.2 Approach.  All portions of counters required to comply with V904 shall be located adjacent to a walking surface complying with V403.

V904.3 Check-Out Aisles.  Check-out aisles shall comply with V904.3.

V904.3.1 Aisle.  Aisles shall comply with V403.

V904.3.2 Counter.  The counter surface height shall be 38 inches (965 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.  The top of the counter edge protection shall be 2 inches (51 mm) maximum above the top of the counter surface on the aisle side of the check-out counter.

V904.3.3 Check Writing Surfaces.  Where provided, check writing surfaces shall comply with V902.3.

V904.4 Sales and Service Counters. Sales counters and service counters shall comply with V904.4.1 or V904.4.2.  The accessible portion of the counter top shall extend the same depth as the sales or service counter top.

EXCEPTION:  In alterations, when the provision of a counter complying with V904.4 would result in a reduction of the number of existing counters at work stations or a reduction of the number of existing mail boxes, the counter shall be permitted to have a portion which is 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum complying with V904.4.1 provided that the required clear deck space is centered on the accessible length of the counter.

V904.4.1 Parallel Approach.  A portion of the counter surface that is 36 inches (915 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) high maximum above the finish deck surface shall be provided.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be positioned for a parallel approach adjacent to the 36 inch (915 mm) minimum length of counter.

EXCEPTION:  Where the provided counter surface is less than 36 inches (915 mm) long, the entire counter surface shall be 36 inches (915 mm) high maximum above the finish deck surface.

V904.4.2 Forward Approach.  A portion of the counter surface that is 30 inches (760 mm) long minimum by 36 inches (915 mm) high maximum shall be provided.  Knee and toe space complying with V306 shall be provided under the counter.  A clear deck space complying with V305 shall be positioned for a forward approach to the counter.

V904.5 Food Service Lines.  Counters in food service lines shall comply with V904.5.

V904.5.1 Self-Service Shelves and Dispensing Devices.  Self-service shelves and dispensing devices for tableware, dishware, condiments, food, and beverages shall comply with V308.

V904.5.2 Tray Slides.  The tops of tray slides shall be 28 inches (710 mm) minimum and 34 inches (865 mm) maximum above the finish deck surface.

V904.6 Security Glazing.  Where counters or teller windows have security glazing to separate personnel from the passengers, a method to facilitate voice communication shall be provided.  Telephone handset devices, if provided, shall comply with V704.3.

 

 

CHAPTER 10: RECREATION FACILITIES AND PLAY AREAS

V1001 General

V1001.1 Scope.  The provisions of Chapter 10 shall apply where required by Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

V 1002 Exercise Machines and Equipment

V1002.1 Clear Deck Space.  Exercise machines and equipment shall have a clear floor space complying with V305 positioned for transfer or for use by an individual seated in a wheelchair.  Clear deck spaces required at exercise machines and equipment shall be permitted to overlap.

V1003 Miniature Golf Facilities

V1003.1 General.  Miniature golf facilities shall comply with V1003.

V1003.2 Accessible Routes.  Accessible routes serving holes on miniature golf courses shall comply with Chapter 4.  Accessible routes located on playing surfaces of miniature golf holes shall be permitted to use the exceptions in V1003.2.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Playing surfaces shall not be required to comply with V302.2.

2.  Where accessible routes intersect playing surfaces of holes, a 1 inch (25 mm) maximum curb shall be permitted for a width of 32 inches (815 mm) minimum.

3.  A slope not steeper than 1:4 for a 4 inch (100 mm) maximum rise shall be permitted.

4.  Ramp landing slopes specified by V405.7.1 shall be permitted to be 1:20 maximum.

5.  Ramp landing length specified by V405.7.3 shall be permitted to be 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum.

6.  Ramp landing size specified by V405.7.4 shall be permitted to be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

7.  Handrails shall not be required on holes.  Where handrails are provided on holes, the handrails shall not be required to comply with V503.

V1003.3 Miniature Golf Holes.  Miniature golf holes shall comply with V1003.3.

V1003.3.1 Start of Play.  A clear deck space 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum with slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at the start of play.

V1003.3.2 Golf Club Reach Range Area.  All areas within holes where golf balls rest shall be within 36 inches (915 mm) maximum of a clear deck space 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum having a running slope not steeper than 1:20.  The clear deck space shall be served by an accessible route.

V1004 Play Areas

V1004.1 General.  Play areas shall comply with V1004.

V1004.2 Accessible Routes.  Accessible routes serving play areas shall comply with Chapter 4 and V1004.2 and shall be permitted to use the exceptions in V1004.2.1 through V1004.2.3.  Where accessible routes serve ground level play components, the vertical clearance shall be 80 inches high (2030 mm) minimum.

V1004.2.1 Ground Level and Elevated Play Components.  Accessible routes serving ground level play components and elevated play components shall be permitted to use the exceptions in V1004.2.1.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Transfer systems complying with V1004.3 shall be permitted to connect elevated play components except where 20 or more elevated play components are provided no more than 25 percent of the elevated play components shall be permitted to be connected by transfer systems.

2.  Where transfer systems are provided, an elevated play component shall be permitted to connect to another elevated play component as part of an accessible route.

V1004.2.2 Soft Contained Play Structures.  Accessible routes serving soft contained play structures shall be permitted to use the exception in V1004.2.2.

EXCEPTION:  Transfer systems complying with V1004.3 shall be permitted to be used as part of an accessible route.

V1004.2.3 Water Play Components.  Accessible routes serving water play components shall be permitted to use the exceptions in V1004.2.3.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where the surface of the accessible route, clear deck spaces, or turning spaces serving water play components is submerged, compliance with V302, V403.3, V405.2, V405.3, and V1004.2.6 shall not be required.

2.  Transfer systems complying with V1004.3 shall be permitted to connect elevated play components in water.

V1004.2.4 Clear Width.  Accessible routes connecting play components shall provide a clear width complying with V1004.2.4.

V1004.2.4.1 Ground Level.  At ground level, the clear width of accessible routes shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  In play areas less than 1000 square feet (92 m²), the clear width of accessible routes shall be permitted to be 44 inches (1120 mm) minimum, if at least one turning space complying with V304.3 is provided where the restricted accessible route exceeds 30 feet (9.14 m) in length.

2.  The clear width of accessible routes shall be permitted to be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum for a distance of 60 inches (1525 mm) maximum, provided that multiple reduced width segments are separated by segments that are 60 inches (1525 mm) wide minimum and 60 inches (1525 mm) long minimum.

V1004.2.4.2 Elevated.  The clear width of accessible routes connecting elevated play components shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  The clear width of accessible routes connecting elevated play components shall be permitted to be reduced to 32 inches (815 mm) minimum for a distance of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum provided that reduced width segments are separated by segments that are 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.

2.  The clear width of transfer systems connecting elevated play components shall be permitted to be 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.

V1004.2.5 Ramps.  Within play areas, ramps connecting ground level play components and ramps connecting elevated play components shall comply with V1004.2.5.

V1004.2.5.1 Ground Level.  Ramp runs connecting ground level play components shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:16.

V1004.2.5.2 Elevated.  The rise for any ramp run connecting elevated play components shall be 12 inches (305 mm) maximum.

V1004.2.5.3 Handrails.  Where required on ramps serving play components, the handrails shall comply with V503, except as modified by V1004.2.5.3.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Handrails shall not be required on ramps located within ground level use zones.

2.  Handrail extensions shall not be required.

V1004.2.5.3.1 Handrail Gripping Surfaces.  Handrail gripping surfaces with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of 0.95 inches (24.1 mm) minimum and 1.55 inches (39.4 mm) maximum.  Where the shape of the gripping surface is non-circular, the handrail shall provide an equivalent gripping surface.

V1004.2.5.3.2 Handrail Height.  The top of handrail gripping surfaces shall be 20 inches (510 mm) minimum and 28 inches (710 mm) maximum above the ramp surface.

V1004.2.6 Ground Surfaces.  Deck surfaces on accessible routes, clear deck spaces, and turning spaces shall comply with V1004.2.6.

V1004.2.6.1 Accessibility.  Deck surfaces shall comply with ASTM F 1951 (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).  Ground surfaces shall be inspected and maintained regularly and frequently to ensure continued compliance with ASTM F 1951.

V1004.2.6.2 Use Zones.  Deck surfaces located within use zones shall comply with ASTM F 1292 (1999 edition or 2004 edition) (incorporated by reference, see “Referenced Standards” in Chapter 1).

V1004.3 Transfer Systems.  Where transfer systems are provided to connect to elevated play components, transfer systems shall comply with V1004.3.

V1004.3.1 Transfer Platforms.  Transfer platforms shall be provided where transfer is intended from wheelchairs or other mobility aids.  Transfer platforms shall comply with V1004.3.1.

V1004.3.1.1 Size.  Transfer platforms shall have level surfaces 14 inches (355 mm) deep minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) wide minimum.

V1004.3.1.2 Height.  The height of transfer platforms shall be 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 18 inches (455 mm) maximum measured to the top of the surface from the deck surface.

V1004.3.1.3 Transfer Space.  A transfer space complying with V305.2 and V305.3 shall be provided adjacent to the transfer platform.  The 48 inch (1220 mm) long minimum dimension of the transfer space shall be centered on and parallel to the 24 inch (610 mm) long minimum side of the transfer platform.  The side of the transfer platform serving the transfer space shall be unobstructed.

V1004.3.1.4 Transfer Supports.  At least one means of support for transferring shall be provided.

V1004.3.2 Transfer Steps.  Transfer steps shall be provided where movement is intended from transfer platforms to levels with elevated play components required to be on accessible routes.  Transfer steps shall comply with V1004.3.2.

V1004.3.2.1 Size.  Transfer steps shall have level surfaces 14 inches (355 mm) deep minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) wide minimum.

V1004.3.2.2 Height.  Each transfer step shall be 8 inches (205 mm) high maximum.

V1004.3.2.3 Transfer Supports.  At least one means of support for transferring shall be provided.

V1004.4 Play Components.  Ground level play components on accessible routes and elevated play components connected by ramps shall comply with V1004.4.

V1004.4.1 Turning Space.  At least one turning space complying with V304 shall be provided on the same level as play components.  Where swings are provided, the turning space shall be located immediately adjacent to the swing.

V1004.4.2 Clear Deck Space.  Clear deck space complying with V305.2 and V305.3 shall be provided at play components.

V1004.4.3 Play Tables.  Where play tables are provided, knee clearance 24 inches (610 mm) high minimum, 17 inches deep (430 mm) minimum, and 30 inches (760 mm) wide minimum shall be provided.  The tops of rims, curbs, or other obstructions shall be 31 inches (785 mm) high maximum.

EXCEPTION:  Play tables designed and constructed primarily for children 5 years and younger shall not be required to provide knee clearance where the clear deck space required by V1004.4.2 is arranged for a parallel approach.

V1004.4.4 Entry Points and Seats.  Where play components require transfer to entry points or seats, the entry points or seats shall be 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) maximum from the clear deck space.

EXCEPTION:  Entry points of slides shall not be required to comply with V1004.4.4.

V1004.4.5 Transfer Supports.  Where play components require transfer to entry points or seats, at least one means of support for transferring shall be provided.

V1005 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, and Spas

V1005.1 General.  Where provided, pool lifts, sloped entries, transfer walls, transfer systems, and pool stairs shall comply with V1005.

V1005.2 Pool Lifts.  Pool lifts shall comply with V1005.2.

V1005.2.1 Pool Lift Location.  Pool lifts shall be located where the water level does not exceed 48 inches (1220 mm).

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Where the entire pool depth is greater than 48 inches (1220 mm), compliance with V1005.2.1 shall not be required.

2.  Where multiple pool lift locations are provided, no more than one pool lift shall be required to be located in an area where the water level is 48 inches (1220 mm) maximum.

V1005.2.2 Seat Location.  In the raised position, the centerline of the seat shall be located over the deck surface and 16 inches (405 mm) minimum from the edge of the pool.  The deck surface between the centerline of the seat and the pool edge shall have a slope not steeper than 1:48.

V1005.2.3 Clear Deck Space.  On the side of the seat opposite the water, a clear deck space shall be provided parallel with the seat.  The space shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum and shall extend forward 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum from a line located 12 inches (305 mm) behind the rear edge of the seat.  The clear deck space shall have a slope not steeper than 1:48.

V1005.2.4 Seat Height.  The height of the lift seat shall be designed to allow a stop at 16 inches (405 mm) minimum to 19 inches (485 mm) maximum measured from the deck to the top of the seat surface when in the raised (load) position.

V1005.2.5 Seat Width.  The seat shall be 16 inches (405 mm) wide minimum.

V1005.2.6 Footrests and Armrests.  Footrests shall be provided and shall move with the seat.  If provided, the armrest positioned opposite the water shall be removable or shall fold clear of the seat when the seat is in the raised (load) position.

EXCEPTION:  Footrests shall not be required on pool lifts provided in spas.

V1005.2.7 Operation.  The lift shall be capable of unassisted operation from both the deck surface and water levels.  Controls and operating mechanisms shall be unobstructed when the lift is in use and shall comply with V309.4.

V1005.2.8 Submerged Depth.  The lift shall be designed so that the seat will submerge to a water depth of 18 inches (455 mm) minimum below the stationary water level.

V1005.2.9 Lifting Capacity.  Single person pool lifts shall have a weight capacity of 300 pounds (136 kg) minimum and be capable of sustaining a static load of at least one and a half times the rated load.

V1005.3 Sloped Entries.  Sloped entries shall comply with V1005.3.

V1005.3.1 Sloped Entries.  Sloped entries shall comply with Chapter 4 except as modified in V1005.3.1 through V1005.3.3.

EXCEPTION:  Where sloped entries are provided, the surfaces shall not be required to be slip resistant.

V1005.3.2 Submerged Depth.  Sloped entries shall extend to a depth of 24 inches (610 mm) minimum and 30 inches (760 mm) maximum below the stationary water level.  Where landings are required by V405.7, at least one landing shall be located 24 inches (610 mm) minimum and 30 inches (760 mm) maximum below the stationary water level.

EXCEPTION:  In wading pools, the sloped entry and landings, if provided, shall extend to the deepest part of the wading pool.

V1005.3.3 Handrails.  At least two handrails complying with V503 shall be provided on the sloped entry.  The clear width between required handrails shall be 33 inches (840 mm) minimum and 38 inches (965 mm) maximum.

EXCEPTIONS:  1.  Handrail extensions specified by V503.10.1 shall not be required at the bottom landing serving a sloped entry.

2.  Where a sloped entry is provided for wave action pools, leisure rivers, sand bottom pools, and other pools where user access is limited to one area, the handrails shall not be required to comply with the clear width requirements of V1005.3.3.

3.  Sloped entries in wading pools shall not be required to provide handrails complying with V1005.3.3.  If provided, handrails on sloped entries in wading pools shall not be required to comply with V503.

V1005.4 Transfer Walls.  Transfer walls shall comply with V1005.4.

V1005.4.1 Clear Deck Space.  A clear deck space of 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum with a slope not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at the base of the transfer wall.  Where one grab bar is provided, the clear deck space shall be centered on the grab bar.  Where two grab bars are provided, the clear deck space shall be centered on the clearance between the grab bars.

V1005.4.2 Height.  The height of the transfer wall shall be 16 inches (405 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum measured from the deck surface.

V1005.4.3 Wall Depth and Length.  The depth of the transfer wall shall be 12 inches (305 mm) minimum and 16 inches (405 mm) maximum.  The length of the transfer wall shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum and shall be centered on the clear deck space.

V1005.4.4 Surface.  Surfaces of transfer walls shall not be sharp and shall have rounded edges.

V1005.4.5 Grab Bars.  At least one grab bar complying with V609 shall be provided on the transfer wall.  Grab bars shall be perpendicular to the pool wall and shall extend the full depth of the transfer wall.  The top of the gripping surface shall be 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 6 inches (150 mm) maximum above transfer walls.  Where one grab bar is provided, clearance shall be 24 inches (610 mm) minimum on both sides of the grab bar.  Where two grab bars are provided, clearance between grab bars shall be 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.

EXCEPTION:  Grab bars on transfer walls shall not be required to comply with V609.4.

V1005.5 Transfer Systems.  Transfer systems shall comply with V1005.5.

V1005.5.1 Transfer Platform.  A transfer platform shall be provided at the head of each transfer system.  Transfer platforms shall provide 19 inches (485 mm) minimum clear depth and 24 inches (610 mm) minimum clear width.

V1005.5.2 Transfer Space.  A transfer space of 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum with a slope not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at the base of the transfer platform surface and shall be centered along a 24 inch (610 mm) minimum side of the transfer platform.  The side of the transfer platform serving the transfer space shall be unobstructed.

V1005.5.3 Height.  The height of the transfer platform shall comply with V1005.4.2.

EXCEPTION:  Transfer platforms which serve wading pools are permitted to have a height of 11 inches (280 mm) minimum and 18 inches (455 mm) maximum measured to the top of the platform surface from the deck surface.

V1005.5.4 Transfer Steps.  Transfer step height shall be 8 inches (205 mm) maximum.  The surface of the bottom tread shall extend to a water depth of 18 inches (455 mm) minimum below the stationary water level.

EXCEPTION:  In wading pools where the depth of the water is less than 18 inches (455 mm), the water depth of the bottom tread surface is permitted to be equal to the depth of the pool.

V1005.5.5 Surface.  The surface of the transfer system shall not be sharp and shall have rounded edges.

V1005.5.6 Size.  Each transfer step shall have a tread clear depth of 14 inches (355 mm) minimum and 17 inches (430 mm) maximum and shall have a tread clear width of 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.

V1005.5.7 Grab Bars.  At least one grab bar on each transfer step and the transfer platform or a continuous grab bar serving each transfer step and the transfer platform shall be provided.  Where a grab bar is provided on each step, the tops of gripping surfaces shall be 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 6 inches (150 mm) maximum above each step and transfer platform.  Where a continuous grab bar is provided, the top of the gripping surface shall be 4 inches (100 mm) minimum and 6 inches (150 mm) maximum above the step nosing and transfer platform.  Grab bars shall comply with V609 and be located on at least one side of the transfer system.  The grab bar located at the transfer platform shall not obstruct transfer.

EXCEPTION:  Grab bars on transfer systems shall not be required to comply with V609.4.

V1005.6 Pool Stairs.  Pool stairs shall comply with V1005.6.

V1005.6.1 Pool Stairs.  Pool stairs shall comply with V502.

EXCEPTION:  Pool step riser heights shall not be required to be 4 inches (100 mm) high minimum and 7 inches (180 mm) high maximum provided that riser heights are uniform.

V1005.6.2 Handrails.  The width between handrails shall be 20 inches (510 mm) minimum and 24 inches (610 mm) maximum.  Handrail extensions required by V503.10.3 shall not be required on pool stairs.

V1006 Shooting Positions

V1006.1 Turning Space.  A circular turning space 60 inches (1525 mm) diameter minimum with slopes not steeper than 1:48 shall be provided at firing positions.