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 6 Source wording and page order preserved. Drawings and table layouts remain available in the original PDF.
Chapter 3: Building Blocks Operable Parts
Side Approach and Reach
Clear Floor Space [§309.2]
Clear floor space can be oriented for a
side approach instead of a forward
approach at most operable parts.
Nominal centering of the space on
operable portions of elements is
advisable, but not required (except at
washers and dryers).
Clear Floor Space
Additional clearance is required if the space is obstructed on three sides for more than
half the depth to allow easier maneuvering into the space.
> 15” > 15”
30”
min
48” min
60” min
6
Edition and local adoption determine which requirements apply. Use the publisher’s document for the complete clauses, diagrams and amendments.