ADAAG Manual

Scoping [4.1.3(5)]

In new construction, platform lifts can be used instead of ramps or elevators only in providing access to:

• performing areas in assembly occupancies

• wheelchair seating locations in assembly occupancies

• incidental space or rooms not open to the public with a maximum occupancy of five

Platform lifts are also permitted where ramp or elevator access is infeasible due to existing or other constraints.

Incidental Rooms and Spaces

These can include work areas such as equipment control rooms, projection booths, radio and news booths, press boxes, and other occupiable spaces of incidental use where the maximum occupancy is five and that are not open to the general public.

Wheelchair Seating Locations

ADAAG requires that lines of sight provided for people using wheelchair locations in assembly areas be comparable to those for the general public. Where the seating capacity exceeds 300, wheelchair locations are required to be dispersed in most cases. Platform lifts can be used to provide access to wheelchair locations in order to meet the line of sight or dispersion requirements of 4.33.3.

Performing Areas

Performing areas include spaces typically elevated or depressed and used primarily for purposes of entertainment, including stages, arena floors, and orchestra pits. Lifts can be used to provide access to these areas and, if located on the same level, other areas intended for use by performers but not the public, such as dressing and locker rooms.

Site Constraints

Platform lifts are permitted where "existing or other constraints" make ramp or elevator access "infeasible." This is intended to cover altered facilities where limited space or other constraints preclude construction of a complying ramp. An example might include construction of a new infill building with a historic facade which must be maintained (thus predetermining the entry floor level) and where space for a ramp is not available.