United States · ADA · Illustrated standards guidance
Operable parts: reach ranges and controls
Forward and side reach guidance for accessible controls, switches and other operable parts, including obstructed reaches.
- Publisher
- U.S. Access Board
- Edition
- Access Board guide to the 2010 ADA standards
- Search coverage
- 10 of 10 PDF pages
AccessibilityAnthropometry & ergonomics
Open original PDF at page 1 Source wording and page order preserved. Drawings and table layouts remain available in the original PDF.
U. S. ACCESS BO ARD TECHNI C AL G UI DE
Operable Parts
This guide explains requirements in the ADA Standards for operable parts.
Operable Parts Covered [§205]
Compliance is required for operable parts located in accessible spaces and along
accessible routes. Operable parts include light switches, electrical and communication
receptacles, thermostats, alarm pulls, automatic door controls, and other elements used
by facility occupants.
Examples of Operable Parts
Compliance is required for the operable portions
Electrical outlets, alarm pulls, and
of fixed elements, such as cabinet hardware, but
many other types of receptacles and
not for inoperable portions or to non-fixed
controls are covered.
components, such as fire extinguishers.
Provisions for drinking fountains and Exempt: floor receptacles and
other elements covered by the standards operable parts used only by service or
also apply the criteria for operable parts. maintenance personnel.
Edition and local adoption determine which requirements apply. Use the publisher’s document for the complete clauses, diagrams and amendments.