Recommendations on Standards for the Design of Medical Diagnostic Equipment for Adults with Disabilities, Advisory Committee Final Report

5.9.2 Standing Supports on Ramped Entry Raised Platforms with Wheelchair Spaces Recommendations

5.9.2.1 Standing Supports on Single Ramped Entry Raised Platforms with Wheelchair Spaces Recommendations

The Committee recommends standing supports located on both sides of platforms, a minimum of 34 inches between supports, integrated into the platform, and 32-inch minimum length (at least 80% of the platform length) at the platform entry edge for a single ramp entry raised platform.

Rationale for the recommendation

The Committee recommends placement of standing supports on both sides for single ramp entry to a raised platform because the supports add safety. The user can hold onto something for stability when accessing or exiting the scale. Standing supports can also act as a guide to help the user to better position her or himself onto the platform.

A 34-inch minimum width between the supports will allow for adequate elbow space for a user of a wheeled mobility device to push the wheels onto the platform and does not infringe on the 32-inch platform.

A standing support must integrate into the platform so it does not interfere with weight accuracy.

The length of the standing supports must be 80% of the platform length or 32-inches minimum, from the platform entry edge. This dimension allows a user to grab it from any point on the platform. This dimension allows use during accessing the platform, positioning on the platform, and provides guidance during exiting (backing out) of the platform.

5.9.2.2 Standing Supports on Dual Ramped Entry Raised Platforms with Wheelchair Spaces Recommendations

The Committee recommends standing supports located on one side of the platform, integrated into the platform and stretching the full length of the platform (40-inch minimum) for dual ramped entry raised platforms.

Rationale for the recommendation

Users need to access either side of the ramp for entry. An individual accessing the ramp may have only one usable side due to conditions such as a stroke, or right or left side paralysis or weakness etc. The user can choose which side of the ramp to enter on and use the standing support as needed to help guide and position himself onto the scale platform.

A standing support must integrate into the platform so that it does not interfere with weight accuracy. The standing support spanning the full length of the platform, 40-inches minimum will provide maximum platform coverage for added safety and stability to users. The user can grab onto the standing support, gain access to the platform, position, and exit the platform.