Guide to the ADA Standards

Edge Protection [§405.9]

Edge protection along ramp runs and landings keep wheelchair casters and crutch tips on the surface and can be provided by curbs, barriers, or extended surfaces.

Curbs if used must be at least 4” high.

 Rails or other barriers must prevent passage of a 4” diameter sphere.

Vertical pickets used for edge protection must prevent passage of a 4” diameter sphere.

Run and landing surfaces that extend at least 12” beyond the inside face of handrails will provide adequate edge protection by preventing wheelchair casters and crutch tips from slipping off the edge.

Edge protection is not required at:

• ramps no higher than 6” that have side flares

• ramp landings serving an adjoining run or stairway

• sides of ramp landings with vertical drop-offs not exceeding ½” within 10” of the minimum landing area