Guidance on the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Analysis and Com menta ry on the 201 0 A DAStandards machine layouts with and without the required a lateral seat-to-platform transfer. It is clearance specified in the 2010 Standards. permissible to locate the clear floor space The accessible alternatives all resulted in a for such machines or equipment in the aisle loss of equipment and machines. However, behind the device and to overlap the clear because these prototype layouts included floor space and the accessible route. certain possibly erroneous assumptions about the 2010 Standards, the Department Commenters were divided in response to wishes to clarify the requirements. the requirement for accessible exercise machines and equipment. Some supported Section 1004.1 of the 2010 Standards requirements for accessible machines and requires a clear floor space “positioned for equipment; others urged the Department transfer or for use by an individual seated in not to require accessible machines and a wheelchair” to serve at least one of each equipment because of the costs involved. type of exercise machine and equipment. The Department believes that the This requirement provides the designer requirement strikes an appropriate balance greater flexibility regarding the location of in ensuring that persons with disabilities, the clear floor space than was employed particularly those who use wheelchairs, will by the commenter who submitted prototype have the opportunity to use the exercise layouts. The 2010 Standards do not require equipment. Providing access to exercise changes to exercise machines or equipment machines and equipment recognizes in order to make them more accessible the need and desires of individuals with to persons with disabilities. Even where disabilities to have the same opportunity as machines or equipment do not have seats other patrons to enjoy the advantages of and typically are used by individuals in a exercise and maintaining health. standing position, at least one of each type of machine or equipment must have a clear 237 and 1005 Fishing Piers and Platforms floor space. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that persons with disabilities wishing Accessible Route. Sections 206.2.14 and to use this type of machine or equipment can 1005.1 of the 2010 Standards require an stand or walk, even if they use wheelchairs accessible route to each accessible fishing much of the time. As indicated in Advisory pier and platform. The exceptions described 1004.1, “the position of the clear floor space under Recreational Boating above also may vary greatly depending on the use of apply to gangways and floating piers. All the equipment or machine.” Where exercise commenters supported the requirements equipment or machines require users to for accessible routes to fishing piers and stand on them, the clear floor space need platforms. not be located parallel to the length of the machine or equipment in order to provide Department of Justice Guidance on the 2010 Standards: Titles II and III - 153