Just a matter of a couple of decades ago, disability ramps were not nearly as commonplace as they are today. Over recent years, major steps have been made to ensure that public buildings are in large part more accessible for those with disabilities. If you are considering making this sort of addition to your existing structure, there are numerous ways in which the project can be achieved. Many are completely unaware of the simplicity of such a task making it quite feasible to accomplish on your own.
The process of constructing a proper wheelchair ramp for improved disability access should always be taken seriously. Building disability ramps which are inadequate or even faulty can cause severe injuries. Safety is key when developing enhanced accessibility for the disabled. The best way to be certain that all safety concerns have been addressed appropriately is by closely following the set guidelines or standards by your local handicapped association. These organizations will have the latest updates in regionally mandated ramp specifications such as slope ratio and horizontal projections.
Disability ramps can be constructed of a variety of different materials. However, the most important consideration should be for those individuals who will actually utilise the ramp and their possible limitations. Essentially, the ramp has to be of sufficient width in order to be safe. In addition to its width, the materials chosen for its fabrication must be sturdy and capable of supporting the weight of electric wheelchairs while maintaining a slope which is smooth enough for manual wheelchair users to traverse with ease.
When assembling a ramp, you must keep in mind that it will likely be used by individuals with disabilities not using a wheelchair. There will also be those who must employ crutches, canes or even walkers. Additionally, many may simply suffer from an irregular gait.
Whether you choose to fabricate your ramp from aluminum, wood, steel or concrete, there are differing advantages and drawbacks which are applicable to each. Though concrete can be somewhat expensive, it is an excellent option for more permanent disability ramps. Remember that prior to the drying of concrete, you can increase anti-slip properties by brushing the surface of the damp concrete for supplementary protection to the prospective users.
Though wood is generally a less expensive material for ramp construction, the decrease in cost is accompanied by a maintenance price. The wood used for a disability ramp must be protected with a sealer or varnish in order to avoid rotting and warping. In addition to sealer or varnish, nonslip protection such as grit strip must be incorporated for the adequate prevention of accidents. Hand rails should also be finished and sustained to avoid the suffering of splinters. When using wood boards, remember to place them in close proximity to one another for the prevention of unnecessary bumps which can occur from over spacing.
There are many crucial factors to consider once you have decided to build a disability ramp. However, the most fundamental consideration will always be for the safety of your ramp users. For this reason, intensive research and proper technique should be the foundation that you build upon.