Highlights of the ADA

Americans With Disabilities Act (July 1, 1994) Regarding Doors, Frames, & Hardware

Clear Opening Width (4.13.5)

1. 32” minimum
   • measured with door open 90°
   • face of door to stop on strike jamb
   • projection of hardware is not taken into account
   • at least one leaf of a pair must comply
   • shallow closets (less than 24”) are exempt

Thresholds (4.13.8)

1. 1/2” high maximum (3/4” for exterior sliding doors)
2. slope no greater than 1:2

Door Hardware (4.13.9)

1. shape of operating devices must be easy to grasp with one hand
2. no tight grasping, tight pinching, or twisting of the wrist to operate
3. levers and u-shaped handles are acceptable
4. no specific projection is required for pulls
5. no higher than 48” above finished floor

Closing Speed (4.13.10)

1. sweep period - 3 seconds minimum
   • from an open position of 70° to a point 3 inches from the latch
   • measured to the leading edge of the door
2. delayed action is not a code requirement

Opening Force (4.13.11)

1. exterior hinged doors: (Reserved)
2. interior hinged doors: 5 lbf. maximum
3. sliding or folding doors: 5 lbf. maximum
4. fire doors: up to the authority having jurisdiction
   • (size 3 recommended for fire doors per NFPA80)

Automatic Operators (4.13.12)

1. if automatic operators are used,
   • shall be low energy type complying with ANSI/BHMA A156.19
   • 3 seconds minimum to open to backcheck
   • no more than 15 lbf to stop door movement
2. automatic operators can solve code problems
   • clear opening width on pairs
   • door opening force
   • maneuvering clearances
   • small vestibules