Draft Revisions to the ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buses and Vans

November 19, 2008

Discussion of Revisions
Text of Draft Revised Guidelines

Related Document: Notice of Availability


Discussion of Revisions

Background

The Access Board is authorized under the Americans with Disabilities Act to issue accessibility guidelines for vehicles used to provide designated and specified public transportation. The Board originally issued the Accessibility Guidelines for Transportation Vehicles in 1991. The vehicle guidelines form the basis for enforceable standards issued by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT standards (49 CFR Part 38) are substantively identical to the Board’s guidelines. Except for supplemental provisions for over-the-road buses (OTRBs) issued in 1998, the vehicle guidelines have not been updated. Since the vehicle guidelines were issued in 1991, new technology, vehicles and services have been introduced into public transportation. In 2006, the Board decided to update and refresh the vehicle guidelines incrementally, beginning with buses and vans, and later with rail and other fixed guideway systems.

On April 11, 2007, the Board released for public comment a first draft of its updated vehicle guidelines for buses and vans. The first draft was based on the Board’s review of the vehicle guidelines and input it received at an industry roundtable in January 2006 and public meetings held in September and July 2006. The first draft was available for comment until June 11, 2007. Almost 90 comments were received during the comment period. Comments that were submitted in an accessible format are available on the Board’s web site (http://www.access-board.gov/transit/comments/).

The Board is now releasing a second draft of the updated vehicle guidelines for buses and vans and is accepting comments on this draft until January 20, 2009. Comments submitted in accessible formats (e.g., HTML, Microsoft Word, ASCII text) will be posted on the Board’s website. All comments received on the first draft were considered in creating the second draft. Although OTRBs were not included in the first draft, some comments were received on OTRBs and the Board has decided to include OTRBs in the second draft. The second draft proposes specific requirements for level boarding buses, often incorporated in Bus Rapid Transit systems. A chart is posted on the Board’s web site (http://www.access-board.gov/transit/comparison.htm) comparing the second draft with the 1991 vehicle guidelines.

This is not a formal Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). An NPRM will be published subsequently for further comment and will be accompanied by a preliminary regulatory assessment. Information for the assessment is currently being collected. A final rule will be issued after comments to the NPRM are analyzed.

Plain Language

The 1991 vehicle guidelines were written in conventional regulatory format, following Federal Register requirements, and are divided into eight subparts. Subpart A includes general provisions pertaining to all vehicles, subparts B through G cover vehicles for various modes, and subpart H covers all other vehicle and service types. The second draft of the vehicle guidelines is reorganized and reformatted to separate scoping requirements (e.g., how many, what type of vehicle, under what conditions, etc.) from a common set of technical provisions. This new format is more consistent with the revised Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities issued by the Board in 2004 and adopted by DOT in 2006. The second draft uses plain language so the requirements are easier to understand. Each section addresses one subject and is numbered with a heading or title for the section. Figures are inserted after some sections to illustrate the requirement in the section. Non-mandatory advisory information is also inserted after some sections to clarify the requirement in the section. This advisory material is clearly identified by shaded boxes. The Board requests comments on whether:

1. The scoping and technical requirements are clearly stated?
2. Any language is not clear?
3. Clarity can be improved by adding figures or advisory information?
4. There is anything else that can be done to make the guidelines easier to understand?

The sections in the second draft of the updated vehicles guidelines for buses and vans are briefly reviewed below.

Chapter T1 Application and Administration

Chapter T1 contains general application and administration sections, including equivalent facilitation, conventions, and definitions. Section T104.4 contains definitions originally contained in Subpart A of the 1991 vehicle guidelines. For purposes of this draft, only those definitions pertaining to buses, OTRBs, and vans are included. Some definitions that were in the first draft are not included because they are in the DOT rule. When provisions for rail and other vehicles are proposed in a subsequent rulemaking, additional definitions will be added. The first draft did not include OTRBs so the definition of an OTRB was not included, a point raised by one comment. Since this draft includes OTRBs, the definition is now included.

Most definitions are not being recommended for change. Definitions are provided to help affected parties understand the requirements which are contained in the text of the guidelines. A new definition of “bridgeplate” has been added. These devices are common for rail vehicles, but are new to level boarding buses because of Bus Rapid Transit.

The definition of “common wheelchair” has been removed. Some transit agencies have used the definition inappropriately to exclude certain wheelchairs and mobility devices from buses, even when those wheelchairs and mobility devices could be accommodated within the vehicle. Commenters on the first draft who recommended retaining the definition cited the desire to use the definition to determine what size wheelchairs and mobility devices are eligible for bus service. Several commenters said removing the definition would require transit agencies to transport wheelchairs and mobility devices that they could not secure. In fact, the DOT regulation already addresses this issue: “The entity may not deny transportation to a wheelchair or its user on the ground that the device cannot be secured or restrained satisfactorily by the vehicle's securement system.” 49 CFR 36.165(d). If DOT wishes to retain a definition of “common wheelchair” in its regulations for other reasons, DOT can do so, and comments on that subject should be addressed to DOT when DOT updates its regulations.

Some commenters recommended that the guidelines address the “Segway” personal transportation device, but DOT has already issued guidance on its use on transit vehicles (http://www.fta.dot.gov/civilrights/ada/civil_rights_3893.html).

The definition of “fixed route” has been clarified to indicate that a fixed schedule is not the determining criterion of what is a fixed route. Congress clearly intended that rapid rail and light rail systems be considered as fixed routes, but rapid rail and light rail systems do not have “fixed” schedules. Instead they operate with a generally consistent headway or train frequency, which usually varies by the time of day. One commenter on the first draft recommended against the definition change, stating that it would require the provision of complementary paratransit for commuter bus systems. The DOT regulation (49 CFR 37.121) specifies which systems must provide paratransit and states that commuter bus systems are not required to provide complementary paratransit service.

Chapter T2 Scoping Requirements

Chapter T2 contains scoping requirements. Section T201 applies to all vehicle types. The provision is substantively identical to section 1192.21(a) of the 1991 guidelines and continues to refer to new, used, and remanufactured vehicles required to be accessible by the DOT regulation.

Some commenters recommended that the vehicle guidelines apply only to vehicles manufactured after the effective date of the updated guidelines. The ADA applies to transit agencies, and not vehicle manufacturers. The ADA requires that vehicles procured by transit agencies comply with the applicable accessibility standards. When DOT updates its ADA regulations to adopt the Board’s updated vehicle guidelines as the new accessibility standards for vehicles, DOT will establish the effective date after which vehicles procured by transit agencies must comply with the new accessibility standards.

Section T203 is the beginning of the specific sections for buses, OTRBs, and vans. The sections are organized so that the scoping requirements for all buses are stated first, followed by scoping requirements for level boarding buses. The reader who is interested in the scoping requirements for a particular type of vehicle should be able to easily identify the applicable sections and skip over sections that do not apply.

The 1991 vehicle guidelines assumed that a lift or ramp, which could deploy to ground level, would be provided at each door where a wheelchair or mobility aid user would board and alight. However, some bus routes are being designed for boarding and alighting from a station platform at the vehicle floor level, sometimes through multiple doors on both sides of the vehicle. Section T203.2.2.2 would require a lift, ramp or bridgeplate only where the vertical separation between the boarding and alighting area exceeds plus or minus 5/8 inch or the horizontal separation exceeds 2 inches. Where a platform and vehicle floor height are coordinated to meet the specified horizontal and vertical separation at the door, no lift, ramp, or bridgeplate is needed at that door.

Section T203.2.1 requires all buses, including buses operating in level boarding bus systems, to provide a boarding device that is capable of being deployed to the roadway. An exception to section T203.2.1.2 permits buses operating exclusively in level boarding bus systems to provide portable ramps on-board the bus that are capable of being deployed to the roadway.

Section T203.3 through T203.6 cover wheelchair spaces, circulation paths, doorways, and steps.

Section T203.7 covers handrails, handholds, and stanchions. The 1991 vehicle guidelines contain a provision for overhead handrails. Overhead handrails are usually not useful to people with disabilities so that provision has been removed and replaced with a requirement for handholds or stanchions at the aisle side of seat backs.

Sections T203.8 through T203.11 cover securement systems, seat belts and shoulder belts, and destination route signs.

Section T203.12 is a new requirement for an automated route announcement system for vehicles at stops which serve multiple routes. Section T203.13 requires an automated stop announcement system on large vehicles (more than 22 feet in length) operated by public entities on fixed routes with multiple stops. This requirement in the first draft generated many comments. The 1991 vehicle guidelines require large buses to have a public address system, but failure of drivers to announce stops is the major compliance issue reported by the Federal Transit Administration. Commenters on the first draft expressed concern that if automated stop announcements are required, transit agencies would need to install expensive and complicated global positioning (GPS) or automated vehicle location (AVL) systems. The commenters noted that GPS systems often do not work reliably in mountainous regions or even in some central cities with tall buildings. The Board requests information on the following:

 

1. How do automated stop announcement installation costs compare to the stop announcements currently in use?

1.1. Does your agency use a microphone-only PA?
1.2. A system with push-button announcements?
1.3. Other?
1.4. What is the installation or factory-added costs of those systems?

2. How does your agency currently gather and store locations of bus stops (for internal or traveler information use)?

2.1. Does your agency have any experience building geo-located stop databases using off-the-shelf consumer equipment or free web-based solutions?
2.2. Have you tested the data gathered this way to gauge its accuracy?
2.3. Has there been any attempt to gather these data already for traveler information reasons?

3. Are you aware of technical solutions that might accomplish the goals of stop announcement for your agency outside of the current commercial offerings?

3.1. If you have deployed such a system, how did the actual costs compare to the quoted prices for commercial off the shelf systems?
3.2. If you are aware of such a solution but have not deployed it, why not?

4. For agencies located in areas with known GPS reception problems, how have you obtained accurate location information?

4.1. Have these solutions been used as an alternative or augment to GPS systems?

5. Are there significant differences between the stop announcement needs for small and rural communities as compared to urban areas?

5.1. How are you currently providing this information?
5.2. Has your agency explored ways to automate the dissemination of this information?
5.3. What kinds of successes or failures have you had with these techniques and how did the costs compare to the commercially available solutions common for large and urban agencies?
5.4. If requirements should be different for “small” agencies, how should “small” be defined?

Sections T203.14 and T203.15 cover stop request systems and fare collection devices.

Chapter T3 Boarding Devices

Chapter T3 contains technical requirements for lifts, ramps, and bridgeplates. An advisory note highlights the differences between the technical requirements for lifts in the Board’s vehicle guidelines and in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). The Board had considered incorporating the NHTSA standards by reference, with some exceptions, but the NHTSA standards apply only to the manufacture of lifts for motor vehicles, and not rail vehicles. Note that section T302.2 of these guidelines specifies a design load of 300 kg (660 lbs.) for lifts. Lifts meeting this design load are currently available.

Section T303.2 specifies a 300 kg design load (660 lbs.) for ramps and bridgeplates. Several commenters on the first draft thought that the ramp width had been increased. The width has not changed. Section T303.8 specifies the maximum slope for ramps and bridgeplates. Commenters on the first draft showed that a 1:8 slope to the roadway was not achievable. However, buses with a ramps slope of 1:6 to roadway are currently available. Where boarding and alighting occurs from station platforms coordinated with the vehicle floor, the required slope of 1:8 should be achievable with a short bridgeplate.

Commenters on the first draft questioned why the 1:4 slope maximum specified in the 1991 guidelines is inadequate. Simple geometry will suffice to illustrate the problem. A typical manual wheelchair has an approach angle of approximately 10 degrees. This is the angle between a level plane and a line drawn from the caster contact point to the lowest point of the underside of the footrest. A 10 degree angle represents a slope of about 1:6. If a wheelchair with this approach angle attempts to ascend a ramp steeper than 1:6, the footrests will hit the ramp before the front caster. The only way to avoid a sudden stop is to tip the chair backward, thus losing any forward momentum. Descending the ramp forward is worse, since the chair will come to a sudden stop, possibly catapulting the occupant out. Descending backward is no better, since a typical manual wheelchair will flip over backward when the rear wheels reach the ground at the bottom of the ramp. Most power wheelchairs will experience similar problems and many cannot be tipped back.

Chapter T4 Wheelchair Spaces and Securement Systems

Chapter T4 covers wheelchair spaces and securement systems. Section T402.4 specifies the minimum clear floor area that must be provided. Sections T402.4.1 and T402.4.2 require additional maneuvering clearance where the space is confined on three sides. Anyone who has attempted to parallel park a car in a space the same length as the car knows that it is impossible. Obviously a 48-inch long wheelchair cannot enter a 48-inch long space that is confined on three sides. Several commenters on the first draft expressed concern that the additional maneuvering clearance would reduce seating capacity. An advisory note clarifies that the additional maneuvering clearance is only needed to enter and exit the wheelchair space and can be reclaimed by fold-down seats at other times. Reduction in seating capacity has been a common concern since accessible buses were introduced. During off-peak hours, seats are almost always available. During peak hours, when the number of seats is an issue, accessible buses provide more passenger capacity because they can accommodate more standees.

The “forward approach” configuration may apply in a minivan entered from a rear ramp or it may apply to a “rear approach” to a rear-facing wheelchair space. Most manual wheelchairs have front casters and many new power chairs have rear casters. A 30-inch wide wheelchair entering a 30-inch wide space confined on three sides may have little trouble, but exiting requires the casters to swivel. A minimum of three inches is needed on each side of the space for this to occur. Thus, a wheelchair space confined on three sides must be at least 36 inches wide. Two figures to show this are included. A provision in the 1991 vehicles guidelines allowing some of the required floor space to be under seats and panels has been removed. That provision worked for wheelchair footrests, but could not accommodate scooters which have a front tiller control.

Section T403.5 provides more specificity on the padded headrest required by the 1991 vehicle guidelines for rear-facing securement.

Chapter T5 Circulation Paths and Doorways on Buses, Over-The-Road Buses, and Vans

Chapter T5 covers circulation paths and doorways. The first draft had specified a 36-inch wide path from entry doors used by wheelchair users and asked whether that was achievable. Commenters showed that it was not. The overall width of a vehicle is determined by the roadway on which it must operate. Low floor buses have the advantage of allowing the use of a simple ramp, instead of a more complicated lift. The shape of the front wheel housings on low floor buses, which must allow the wheels to turn, creates a narrower aisle for front door entry. Comments from manufacturers of high and low floor buses showed that a width of 34 inches was achievable. The required minimum vertical clearance along the path varies according to vehicle size and type. These vertical clearances have not been changed from the 1991 vehicle guidelines. The wording for vertical clearances was clarified in the first draft and in the second draft as well.

Chapter T6 is reserved for circulation paths and doorways on rail vehicles which will be addressed in future rulemaking.

Chapter T7 Communication Features

Chapter T7 includes technical requirements for communication features, including signs and announcement systems. The provisions for sign characters and line space are adapted from the Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities. Section T704 covers automated route announcement systems and T705 covers automated stop announcement systems.

Chapter T8 Other Features

Chapter T8 covers other requirements for slip resistance, protrusions, surface discontinuities, and openings. Doorway lighting, additional handrail and stanchion requirements, operable parts, and fare collection devices are also covered in this chapter.

Amendments to Buildings and Facilities Guidelines for Station Platforms

The Board is proposing some technical amendments to Section 810.5 of the Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities to include level boarding bus stations.



AMERCIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES 

 

CHAPTER T1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION

T101 General
T102 Equivalent Facilitation
T103 Conventions
T104 Definitions

CHAPTER T2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS

T201 General
T202 Reduction in Access Prohibited
T203 Buses, Over-the-Road Buses, and Vans

CHAPTER T3: BOARDING DEVICES

T301 General
T302 Lifts
T303 Ramps and Bridgeplates

CHAPTER T4: WHEELCHAIR SPACES AND SECUREMENT SYSTEMS

T401 General
T402 Wheelchair Spaces
T403 Securement Systems
T404 Seat Belts and Shoulder Belts

CHAPTER T5: CIRCULATION PATHS AND DOORWAYS ON BUSES, OVER-THE-ROAD BUSES, AND VANS

T501 General
T502 Circulation Paths
T503 Doorways
T504 Steps
T505 Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds

[CHAPTER T6: CIRCULATION PATHS AND DOORWAYS ON RAIL VEHICLES]

CHAPTER T7: COMMUNICATION FEATURES

T701 General
T702 Signs
T703 International Symbol of Accessibility
T704 Automated Route Announcement Systems
T705 Automated Stop Announcement Systems
T706 Stop Request Systems

CHAPTER T8: OTHER FEATURES

T801 General
T802 Surfaces
T803 Doorway Lighting
T804 Additional Requirements for Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds
T805 Operable Parts
T806 Fare Collection Devices

AMENDMENTS TO AMERCIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES AND ARCHITECTURAL BARRIERS ACT (ABA) ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES

218 Transportation Facilities
F218 Transportation Facilities
810 Transportation Facilities

 


 

CHAPTER T1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION

T101 General.  This document contains scoping and technical requirements for vehicles that are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.  The requirements apply to the acquisition of new, used, and remanufactured vehicles and the remanufacture of existing vehicles to the extent required by regulations in 49 CFR Part 37 issued by the Department of Transportation under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

Advisory T101 General.  The Department of Transportation and the Department of Justice have issued regulations under the Americans with Disabilities Act which contain additional requirements regarding nondiscrimination and provision of services affecting individuals with disabilities.  Entities must comply with the Department of Transportation and the Department of Justice regulations, in addition to this document.

T102 Equivalent Facilitation.  The requirements in this document do not prevent the use of alternative designs or technologies that result in substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.  Determinations of compliance are made on a case-by-case basis by the Department of Transportation under the procedure set forth in 49 CFR §37.7.

T103 Conventions

T103.1 Dimensions.  Dimensions that are not stated as maximum or minimum are absolute.

T103.2 Tolerances.  All dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances for manufacturing processes, material properties, and field conditions.

Advisory T103.2 Tolerances.  Tolerances are not intended to be variances that can be used in design.  Information on specific tolerances may be available from industry or trade organizations and published references.

Example.  The design of a cable driven funicular is coordinated to align the vehicle floor with the boarding platforms.  During certain times of the day, heat expansion of the cable during operation causes the gap between the vehicle floor and the boarding platforms to increase, but the gap decreases over night.  The gap between the vehicle floor and the boarding platforms is subject to tolerances due to heat expansion of the cable during operation.  On the other hand, if the gap is out of alignment due to other reasons, the Department of Transportation regulations at 49 CFR 37.161 require accessible features to be maintained.

T103.3 Figures.  Figures are provided for informational purposes only, except for Figure T703.

T103.4 Units of Measurement.  Measurements are stated in metric and U.S. customary units.  The values stated in each system (metric or U.S. customary units) may not be exact equivalents, and each system shall be used independently of the other.

Advisory T103.4 Units of Measurement.  Users should work entirely within one system of measurement, either metric or U.S. customary units.  Combining values from the two systems may result in non-compliance.

T103.5 Vehicle Length.  The length of buses, over-the-road buses, and vans is measured from standard bumper to standard bumper, exclusive of any additional protrusions.

Advisory T103.5 Vehicle Length.  Vehicle length is measured with the vehicle as supplied by the original equipment manufacturer.  After manufacture additions such as energy absorbing bumpers or bicycle racks are not included when measuring vehicle length.

T104 Definitions

T104.1 General.  For the purpose of this document, the terms defined in T104.4 have the indicated meaning.

T104.2 Undefined Terms.  The meaning of terms not specifically defined in T104.4 or in regulations issued by the Department of Transportation shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.

T104.3 Interchangeability.  Words, terms and phrases used in the singular include the plural; and words, terms and phrases used in the plural include the singular.

T104.4 Defined Terms.

Accessible.  A vehicle that complies with the requirements of this document in effect at the time of purchase, lease or remanufacture.

Boarding device.  A lift, ramp, or bridgeplate.

Bridgeplate.  A short plate or short ramp designed to bridge a horizontal or vertical gap between a vehicle floor and a station platform, or between a vehicle floor and a lift platform.

Bus.  Any of several types of self-propelled vehicles, generally rubber tired, intended for use on city streets, highways, and busways, including but not limited to minibuses, forty-foot and thirty-foot transit buses, articulated buses, double-deck buses, electric powered trolley buses, and vehicles designed to look like antique or vintage trolleys or street cars, used to provide designated or specified public transportation services.

Fixed route system.  A system of transporting individuals (other than by aircraft), including the provision of designated public transportation, as defined in 49 CFR §37.3, by public entities and the provision of transportation by private entities, including, but not limited to specified public transportation, as defined in 49 CFR §37.3, on which a vehicle is operated along a prescribed route according to a fixed schedule or having a general frequency or headway, which may vary according to the time of day.

Level boarding bus system.  A system in which buses operate where some or all of the designated boarding and alighting areas have station platforms, and the design of the station platforms and the vehicles are coordinated to provide level boarding.

New vehicle.  A vehicle which is offered for sale or lease after manufacture without any prior use.

Over-the-Road Bus.  A bus characterized by an elevated passenger deck located over a baggage compartment.

Remanufactured vehicle.  A vehicle which has been structurally restored and has had new or rebuilt major components installed to extend its service life.

Surface discontinuities.  Differences in level between two adjacent surfaces.

        Used vehicle.  A vehicle with prior use.


 

CHAPTER T2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS

T201 General.  New, used, and remanufactured vehicles shall comply with the scoping requirements in Chapter T2 to the extent required by regulations in 49 CFR Part 37 issued by the Department of Transportation under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).

T202 Reduction in Access Prohibited.  Modifications to an accessible vehicle shall not decrease or have the effect of decreasing the accessibility of the vehicle below the requirements of this document that are in effect at the time of the modification.

Advisory T202 Reduction in Access Prohibited.  Modifications to a vehicle must not reduce the accessibility of the vehicle. 

Example 1.  New seats are installed in an accessible bus.  The new seats must not reduce the number of wheelchair spaces required by T203.3, or interfere with the securement systems required by T203.8 or the seat belts and shoulder belts required by T203.9.  The new forward and rear facing seats must provide handholds or stanchions on the backs of the seats required by T505.5. 

Example 2.  Fare boxes are replaced with larger electronic fare collection devices.  Handrails or panels adjoining the new electronic fare collection devices may have to be reconfigured in order to not reduce the clear width of the circulation path and to not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs and mobility aids, as required by T502.

Example 3.  Lifts, ramps or bridgeplates are replaced with newer models.  The new boarding devices must comply with T302 or T303.

T203 Buses, Over-the-Road Buses, and Vans

T203.1 General.  Buses, over-the-road buses, and vans shall comply with T203.

T203.2 Accessible Boarding.  Accessible boarding shall be provided in accordance with T203.2.

T203.2.1 Minimum Requirement for All Vehicles.  All vehicles shall provide in at least one doorway lifts or ramps that are capable of being deployed to all boarding and alighting areas served by the vehicle and to the roadway.  The lifts shall comply with T302, and the ramps shall comply with T303.

Advisory T203.2.1 Minimum Requirement for All Vehicles.  The lifts or ramps must be capable of being deployed to the roadway in the event the boarding device cannot be deployed to the sidewalk because other vehicles are parked in a boarding and alighting area served by the vehicle, or in the event the vehicle breaks down on the roadway. 

Vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems may serve some boarding and alighting areas that do not have station platforms, or may discharge passengers to the roadway if the vehicle breaks down.  The vehicles must comply with T203.2.1 and provide a lift or ramp that can be deployed to all boarding and alighting areas served by the vehicle and to the roadway.

T203.2.1.2 Ramps.  Where ramps are provided on vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length, the ramps shall be permanently installed and power operated.

EXCEPTION:  Vehicles that operate only in level boarding bus systems where all the designated boarding and alighting areas have station platforms shall be permitted to provide portable ramps on board the vehicle that are capable of being deployed to the roadway.

T203.2.2 Additional Requirements for Level Boarding Bus Systems.  Vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems shall comply with the additional requirements in T203.2.2. 

T203.2.2.1 Vehicle Floor and Station Platform Coordination.  The design of the vehicle shall be coordinated with the station platforms to minimize the gap between the vehicle floor and the station platforms. 

T203.2.2.2 Bridgeplates and Ramps.  Where the gap between the vehicle floor and the station platforms is greater than 51 mm (2 inches) horizontally or 16 mm (⅝ inch) vertically when measured at 50 percent passenger load with the vehicle at rest, vehicles shall provide bridgeplates or ramps that are capable of being deployed to the station platforms in accordance with T203.2.2.2.  The bridgeplates and ramps shall comply with T303, and shall be permanently installed and power operated. 

Advisory T203.2.2.2 Ramps and Bridgeplates.  Ramps provided to comply with T203.2.1 may be used to comply with T203.2.2.2.  T303.8.1 requires that ramps provided to comply with T203.2.1 must have slopes not steeper than 1:6 (17 percent) when deployed to boarding and alighting areas without station platforms and to the roadway.  T303.8.2 requires that ramps and bridgeplates provided to comply with T203.2.2.2 must have slopes not steeper than 1:8 (12.5 percent) when deployed to station platforms.  Additional advisory information on ramp and bridgeplate slopes is provided in Advisory T303.8.1.

T203.2.2.2.1 Doorways on One Side of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on one side of the vehicle to serve station platforms, the vehicle shall provide a ramp or bridgeplate in at least one doorway. 

T203.2.2.2.2 Doorways on Two Sides of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on two sides of the vehicle to serve station platforms, the vehicle shall provide a ramp or bridgeplate in at least one doorway on each side of the vehicle. 

Advisory T203.2.2.2.2 Doorways on Two Sides of Vehicle.  Level boarding bus systems may have center and side station platforms, and vehicles operating in such systems will have doorways on two sides of the vehicle to serve the station platforms. 

Example.  A vehicle operating in a level boarding bus system with center and side platforms has doorways on two sides of the vehicle.  A doorway on the right side of the vehicle has a ramp to comply with T203.2.1 that may also be used to comply with T203.2.2.2.2.  The ramp must have slopes not steeper than 1:6 (17 percent) when deployed to boarding and alighting areas without station platforms and to the roadway, and slopes not steeper than 1:8 (12.5 percent) when deployed to station platforms.  A doorway on the left side of the vehicle has a bridgeplate to comply with T203.2.2.2.2.  The bridgeplate must have slopes not steeper than 1:8 (12.5 percent) when deployed to station platforms.  Entities are encouraged to provide ramps and bridgeplates with the least possible slope to accommodate a broader range of passengers with disabilities and minimize the need for assistance.

T203.3 Wheelchair Spaces.  Wheelchair spaces complying with T402 shall be provided on vehicles in accordance with T203.3. 

T203.3.1 Large Vehicles.  On vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length, at least two wheelchair spaces shall be provided.  

T203.3.2 Small Vehicles.  On vehicles 6.7 m (22 feet) or less in length, at least one wheelchair space shall be provided. 

T203.3.3 Location.  Wheelchair spaces shall be located in accordance with T203.3.3.1 or T203.3.3.2.

T203.3.3.1 General.  Wheelchair spaces shall be located as near as practicable to doorways with boarding devices. 

T203.3.3.2 Level Boarding Bus Systems.  On vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems where the vehicle floor and station platforms are coordinated so that ramps or bridgeplates are not required to be deployed to station platforms, wheelchair spaces shall be located as near as practicable either to doorways serving the station platforms, or to doorways with boarding devices required by T203.2.1.

T203.3.4 Signs.  Wheelchair spaces shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with T703.

T203.4 Circulation Paths.  Circulation paths on vehicles shall comply with T203.4.

T203.4.1 Surfaces.  All circulation path surfaces shall comply with T802. 

T203.4.2 Wheelchair Spaces.  Circulation paths shall connect each wheelchair space to doorways in accordance with T203.4.2.  Circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall comply with T502.

T203.4.2.1 Doorways with Boarding Devices.  On all vehicles, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway with a boarding device that can be deployed to the roadway.

EXCEPTION:  On vehicles eligible for the exception in T203.2.2, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway where a portable ramp can be deployed to the roadway.

T203.4.2.2 Additional Requirements for Level Boarding Bus Systems.  Vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems shall comply with the additional requirements in T203.4.2.2.

Advisory T203.4.2.2 Level Boarding Bus Systems.  Vehicles operating in level boarding bus systems must comply with T203.4.2.1 and T203.4.2.2.

T203.4.2.2.1 Doorways on One Side of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on one side of the vehicle to serve station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to doorways in accordance with T203.4.3.1.1 or T203.4.3.1.2.

T203.4.2.2.1.1 Ramps or Bridgeplates Deployed to Station Platforms.  Where ramps or bridgeplates are deployed to station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway with a ramp or bridgeplate that can be deployed to the station platform. 

T203.4.2.2.1.2 Ramps or Bridgeplates Not Deployed to Station Platforms.  Where the vehicle floor and station platforms are coordinated so that ramps or bridgeplates are not required to be deployed to station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway that serves the station platforms.

T203.4.2.2.2 Doorways on Two Sides of Vehicle.  Where doorways are provided on two sides of the vehicle to serve station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to doorways in accordance with T203.4.2.2.2.1 or T203.4.2.2.2.2.

T203.4.2.2.2.1 Ramps or Bridgeplates Deployed to Station Platforms.  Where ramps or bridgeplates are deployed to station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway on each side of the vehicle with a ramp or bridgeplate that can be deployed to the station platform. 

T203.4.2.2.2.2 Ramps or Bridgeplates Not Deployed to Station Platforms.  Where the vehicle floor and station platforms are coordinated so that ramps or bridgeplates are not required to be deployed to station platforms, a circulation path shall connect each wheelchair space to a doorway on each side of the vehicle that serves the station platforms.

T203.5 Doorways.  Doorways shall comply with T203.5.

T203.5.1 Doorways with Boarding Devices.  Doorways with boarding devices shall comply with T503.1.

T203.5.2. Doorways with Level Entry Boarding.  Doorways with level entry boarding shall comply with T503.2.

T203.5.3 Doorways on Over-the-Road Buses.  Doorways on over-the-road buses shall comply with T503.3. 

T203.5.4 Signs.  Doorways that are connected to wheelchair spaces by a circulation path complying with T502 shall be identified on the exterior of the vehicle by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with T703.  If all the doorways are connected to wheelchair spaces by a circulation path complying with T502, the doorways shall not be required to be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility.

T203.5.5 Lighting.  Where lighting is provided at doorways, lighting shall comply with T803.

T203.6 Steps.  Steps shall comply with T504.

T203.7 Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds.  Handrails and stanchions complying with T505 shall be provided at passenger doorways, at fare collection devices where provided on vehicles, and along all circulation paths.  On vehicles more than 6.7m (22 feet) in length, handholds or stanchions shall be provided on the backs of forward and rear facing seats.

T203.8 Securement Systems.  Securement systems complying with T403 shall be provided at each wheelchair space.

T203.9 Seat Belts and Shoulder Belts.  Seat belts and shoulder belts complying with T404 shall be provided at each wheelchair space.

Advisory T203.9 Seat Belts and Shoulder Belts.  Seat and shoulder belts are provided for the convenience of passengers occupying wheelchair spaces.  Entities cannot require passengers with disabilities to use seat belts and shoulder belts, unless all passengers are required to use seat belts and shoulder belts.

T203.10 Seats.  Seats shall comply with T203.10.

T203.10.1 Priority Seats.  At least two seats shall be designated as priority seats for passengers with disabilities.  The priority seats shall be located as near as practicable to a doorway that is used for both boarding and alighting.  Where aisle facing seats are provided, one of the priority seats shall be an aisle facing seat, and one of the priority seats shall be a forward facing seat.

T203.10.2 Signs.  Priority seats required by T203.10.1 shall be identified by signs complying with T702 that inform other passengers to make the seats available to passengers with disabilities.

T203.10.3 Aisle Seats on Over-the-Road Buses.  Where armrests are provided on the aisle side of seats on over-the-road buses, the aisle seats shall comply with T203.10.3.

T203.10.3.1 Moveable or Removable Seats.  Folding or removable armrests shall be provided on the aisle side of all moveable or removable seats at wheelchair spaces. 

T203.10.3.2 Fixed Seats.  Folding or removable armrests shall be provided on the aisle side of at least 25 percent of all fixed aisle seats.

T203.11 Destination and Route Signs.  Where signs displaying destination or route information are provided on the exterior of a vehicle, the signs shall be provided on the front and boarding side of the vehicle.  The signs shall be illuminated and shall comply with T702.

T203.12 Automated Route Announcement Systems.  On vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length operated by public entities on fixed route systems that stop at designated boarding and alighting areas serving more than one route, automated route announcement systems complying with T704 shall be provided.

T203.13 Automated Stop Announcement Systems.  On vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length operated by public entities on fixed route systems that stop at multiple designated boarding and alighting areas, automated stop announcement systems complying with T705 shall be provided.

T203.14 Stop Request Systems.  On vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length operated by public entities or private entities on fixed route systems that stop at multiple designated boarding and alighting areas on passenger request, stop request systems complying with T706 shall be provided.

T203.15 Fare Collection Devices.  Where fare collection devices are provided on vehicles, fare collection devices shall comply with T806.



CHAPTER T3: BOARDING DEVICES

T301 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T3 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.

T302 Lifts

T302.1 General.  Lifts shall comply with T302. 

Advisory T302.1 General.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has established Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) at 49 CFR § 571.403 and § 571.404 for lifts that are designed for use on motor vehicles.  Lift manufacturers are required to certify that lifts manufactured on or after April 1, 2005 comply with the FMVSS.  Motor vehicle manufacturers who install lifts on vehicles manufactured on or after July 1, 2005 are required to install lifts that comply with the FMVSS.

The FMVSS specify performance tests for many of the technical requirements in T302.  Lifts that comply with the FMVSS for public use lifts will also comply with the technical requirements in T302, except as follows:

T302.2. Design Load.  The design load must be 300 kg (660 pounds) minimum.  Load carrying components that are subject to wear must have a design safety factor of at least six, and other components must have a design safety factor of at least three.  

T302.4 Manual Operation.  Doors which must be opened to allow the lift to operate must have interior and exterior manual releases.

T302.5.1 Surfaces and T802.3 Openings.  Openings in lift platform surfaces must not allow the passage of a sphere more than 13 mm (½ inch) diameter.  Elongated openings must be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the dominant direction of travel.  Cut-outs are permitted for lift platforms that are folded and stowed manually.

T302.5.4 Threshold Ramps and T802.5 Surface Discontinuities.  Surface discontinuities at transitions from boarding and alighting areas to threshold ramps between 6.4 mm (¼ inch) and 13 mm (½ inch) must have beveled edge treatment applied across the entire surface discontinuity.

T302.5.9 Boarding Direction.  Lift platforms must permit passengers who use wheelchairs or mobility aids to board the platforms facing either toward or away from the vehicle.

T302.5.10 Standees.  Lift platforms must be usable by passengers who use walkers, crutches, canes, or braces or who otherwise have difficulty using steps.

T302.2 Design Load.  The lift design load shall be 300 kg (660 pounds) minimum.  Load carrying components that are subject to wear shall have a design safety factor of at least six, based on the ultimate strength of the material.  Other components that are not subject to wear shall have a design safety factor of at least three, based on the ultimate strength of the material.

Advisory T302.2 Design Load.  Cables, pulleys, and shafts are examples of the load carrying components that are subject to wear.  Lift platforms, frames, and attachment hardware are examples of the other components that are not subject to wear.

T302.3 Controls.  Lift controls shall comply with T302.3.

T302.3.1 Interlocks.  Lift controls shall be interlocked with the vehicle brakes, transmission, propulsion system, or door, or shall provide other systems to prevent the vehicle from moving when the lift is not stowed.  Lift controls shall not be operable unless the interlocks are engaged.

 T302.3.2 Sequence.  Lift controls shall be of a momentary contact type requiring continuous manual pressure.  Lift controls shall permit the operator to change the operation sequence.  Lift controls shall not permit the lift platform to be folded, retracted, or stowed when occupied, unless the platform is designed to be occupied when stowed in the passenger area of the vehicle. 

Advisory T302.3.2 Sequence.  A rotary lift is an example of a lift platform that is designed to be occupied when the platform is rotated into a stowed position in the passenger area of the vehicle.

T302.4 Manual Operation.  Lifts shall be capable of being operated manually if the power to the lift fails.  The manual operation shall be safe for the occupant and operator.  When operated manually, the lift platform shall deploy and lower to the boarding and alighting area or the roadway with an occupant; shall rise to the vehicle floor without an occupant; and shall stow.  The lift platform shall not fold, retract, or stow when occupied, unless the platform is designed to be occupied when stowed in the passenger area of the vehicle.  Doors which must be opened to allow the lift to operate shall have interior and exterior manual releases. 

T302.5 Platforms.  Lift platforms shall comply with T302.5.

            T302.5.1 Surfaces.  Lift platform surfaces shall comply with T802.

T302.5.2 Size.  The lift platform clear width shall be 720 mm (28½ inches) minimum measured at the platform surface, and 760 mm (30 inches) minimum measured from 51 mm (2 inches) above the platform surface to 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the platform surface.  The lift platform clear length shall be 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum measured at the platform surface and g1220 mm (48 inches) minimum measured from 51 mm (2 inches) above the platform surface to 1015 mm (40 inches) above the platform surface. 

Advisory T302.5.2 Size.  A surface width of 720 mm (28.5 inches) minimum is specified for the lift platform to accommodate some protrusions for handrail attachment brackets.  A wider lift platform is recommended because it is more usable by passengers who use wheelchairs and mobility aids, and accommodates a broader range of passengers with disabilities.  The lift platform width should not exceed the clear opening of the doorway, or the clear width of the circulation path connecting the doorway to the wheelchair space.

Figure T302.5.2 Size.  Side view of a person seated in a wheelchair shows a clear platform length of 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum measured at the platform surface and g1220 mm (48 inches) minimum measured from 51 mm (2 inches) above the platform surface to 1015 mm (40 inches) above the platform surface.  Front view of a person seated in a wheelchair shows a clear width of 720 mm (28½ inches) minimum measured at the platform surface, and 760 mm (30 inches) minimum measured from 51 mm (2 inches) above the platform surface to 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the platform surface.

T302.5.3 Edge Barriers.  Lift platforms shall have edge barriers complying with Table T302.5.3 to prevent the wheels of wheelchairs and mobility aids from rolling off the platforms.  Openings between lift platform surfaces and raised barriers shall not permit passage of a sphere more than 16 mm (⅝ inch) diameter.  Edge barriers shall not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs and mobility aids.  

Table T302.5.3 Lift Platform Edge Barriers

Side of Lift Platform

Edge Barrier Required

Side of lift platform used to enter and exit the platform at boarding and alighting area

Moveable barrier or supplementary system capable of preventing power wheelchairs and power mobility aids from riding over or defeating the barrier or supplementary system.  The barrier or supplementary system shall automatically raise or engage, and remain raised or engaged when the lift platform is more than 75 mm (3 inches) above the boarding and alighting area level.  The barrier or supplementary system shall be permitted to be operated manually if an interlock or other design feature prevents the lift from operating unless the barrier or supplementary system is raised or engaged.

Side of lift platform used to enter and exit the vehicle

Moveable barrier or other design feature to prevent the wheels of wheelchairs or mobility aids from rolling off the lift platform when the platform is not at the vehicle floor level

Other sides of lift platform

Barriers 38 mm (1½ inches) high minimum

T302.5.4 Gaps.  When the lift platform is at the vehicle floor level and any edge barrier is lowered, the gap between the platform surface and the vehicle floor shall be 13 mm (½ inch) maximum horizontally and 16 mm (⅝ inch) maximum vertically.

T302.5.5 Threshold Ramps.  Threshold ramps from boarding and alighting areas to lift platforms and edge barriers used as threshold ramps shall have slopes not steeper than 1:8 (12.5 percent) for a rise of 75 mm (3 inches) maximum.  The slope shall be measured when the lift platform is level.  Surface discontinuities at transitions from boarding and alighting areas to threshold ramps shall comply with T802.5.

T302.5.6 Visual Contrast.  The perimeter of the lift platform surface shall be outlined.  The outline shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the platform surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

T302.5.7 Deflection.  When occupied, lift platforms shall be permitted to deflect 3 degrees maximum in any direction with respect to the platform’s unloaded position, exclusive of vehicle roll or pitch.

T302.5.8 Movement.  Lift platform movement shall comply with T302.5.8.

T302.5.8.1 Normal Operating Conditions.  When occupied, lift platforms shall move at a rate of 150 mm/second (6 inches/second) maximum, and the horizontal and vertical acceleration shall be 0.3g maximum under normal operating conditions.  When folding, retracting, or stowing, lift platforms shall move at a rate of 306 mm/second (12 inches/second) maximum under normal operating conditions, unless the platform is folded and stowed manually. 

T302.5.8.2 Power or Equipment Failure.  In the event of a power failure or single failure of any load carrying component, lift platforms that are occupied or are stowed in a vertical position shall move at rate of 306 mm/second (12 inches/second) maximum. 

T302.5.9 Boarding Direction.  Lift platforms shall permit passengers who use wheelchairs and mobility aids to board the platforms facing either toward or away from the vehicle.

Advisory T302.5.9 Boarding Direction.  Lift platforms must permit passengers who use wheelchairs or mobility aids to board the platforms facing toward or away from the vehicle because some passengers have significant difficulty backing up their wheelchairs or mobility aids.  Entities may recommend, but not require, boarding the lift platform in a particular direction.

T302.5.10 Standees.  Lift platforms shall be usable by passengers who use walkers, crutches, canes, or braces or who otherwise have difficulty using steps.  Lift platforms shall be permitted to be marked to indicate a preferred standing position.

T302.5.11 Handrails.  Lifts platforms shall have handrails complying with T804 on two sides of the platform that move in tandem with the platform to provide support for passengers in a standing position.  Handrails shall have a usable gripping surface 205 mm (8 inches) long minimum.  The gripping surface shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum and 965 mm (38 inches) maximum above the lift platform surface.  Handrails shall not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs and mobility aids.

Figure T302.5.11 Handrails.  Elevation figures show angled, vertical, and horizontal handrails with a gripping surface 205 mm (8 inches) long minimum located 760 mm (30 inches) minimum and 965 mm (38 inches) maximum above the lift platform surface.

T303 Ramps and Bridgeplates

T303.1 General.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall comply with T303.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall be permitted to fold or telescope if all the requirements of T303 are met.

T303.2 Design Load.  The design load of ramps and bridgeplates 760 mm (30 inches) or more in length shall be 300 kg (660 pounds) minimum.  The design load of ramps and bridgeplates less than 760 mm (30 inches) in length shall be 150 kg (330 pounds) minimum.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall have a design safety factor of at least 3, based on the ultimate strength of the material.

Advisory T303.2 Design Load.  The design load is the weight the ramp or bridgeplate is designed to support without damage or permanent deformation.  Some deflection may occur under maximum load.

T303.3 Attachment.  When used for boarding and alighting, ramps and bridgeplates shall be firmly attached to the vehicle and shall not be subject to displacement from the vehicle.

T303.4 Emergency Operation.  Power operated ramps and bridgeplates shall be capable of being operated manually and in a manner that is safe for the occupant and operator if the power fails. 

T303.5 Surfaces.  Ramp and bridgeplate surfaces shall comply with T802, and shall be uninterrupted from edge to edge. 

Advisory T303.5 Surfaces.  Ramp and bridgeplate surfaces must be uninterrupted from edge to edge to accommodate three-wheel scooters.  Expanded metal or perforated materials are permitted, as long as the openings comply with T802.3.

T303.6 Clear Width.  The ramp and bridgeplate clear width shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum.

Advisory T303.6 Clear Width.  A wider ramp or bridgeplate is recommended because it is more usable by passengers who use wheelchairs and mobility aids, and accommodates a broader range of passengers with disabilities.  The ramp or bridgeplate width should not exceed the clear opening of the doorway, or the clear width of the circulation path connecting the doorway to the wheelchair space.

T303.7 Edge Barriers.  The edges of ramps and bridgeplates that are more than 75 mm (3 inches) above the boarding and alighting area level shall have barriers 51 mm (2 inches) high minimum.

T303.8 Slope.  Ramp and bridgeplate slopes shall comply with T303.8 when measured at 50 percent passenger load.

Advisory T303.8 Slope.  The Department of Transportation regulations at 49 CFR 37.165(f) require the entity’s personnel to assist passengers with disabilities with the use of boarding devices, even if the personnel must leave their seats.  Providing ramps and bridgeplates with the least possible slope accommodates a broader range of passengers with disabilities and minimizes the need for assistance.

T303.8.1 General.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall have slopes not steeper than 1:6 (17 percent) when deployed to boarding and alighting areas without station platforms and to the roadway.

T303.8.2 Station Platforms.  Ramps and bridgeplates shall have slopes not steeper than 1:8 (12.5 percent) when deployed to station platforms.

T303.9 Transitions.  Surface discontinuities at transitions from boarding and alighting areas to ramps and bridgeplates shall comply with T802.5.

T303.10 Visual Contrast.  The perimeter of the ramp and bridgeplate surface shall be outlined.  The outline shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the ramp and bridgeplate surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

T303.11 Gaps.  Gaps between the ramp or bridgeplate surface and vehicle floor shall not permit passage of a sphere more than 13 mm (½ inch) diameter.

T303.12 Stowage.  Where portable ramps or bridgeplates are permitted, a compartment, securement system, or other method shall be provided within the vehicle to stow the ramps and bridgeplates when not in use.  When stowed in passenger areas, portable ramps and bridgeplates shall not pose a hazard to passengers, and shall not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs and mobility aids. 



CHAPTER T4: WHEELCHAIR SPACES AND SECUREMENT SYSTEMS

T401 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T4 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.

T402 Wheelchair Spaces

T402.1 General.  Wheelchair spaces shall comply with T402.

T402.2 Surfaces.  Wheelchair space surfaces shall comply with T802.

T402.3 Approach.  One full unobstructed side of each wheelchair space shall adjoin or overlap a circulation path complying with T502.

T402.4 Size.  Wheelchair spaces shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum by 1220 mm (48 inches) minimum.  If wheelchair spaces are confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering space complying with T402.4.1 or T402.4.2 shall be provided.  Fold-down seats shall be permitted to occupy wheelchair spaces if the seat does not obstruct the wheelchair space when the seat is in the up position. 

Figure T402.4 Size.  Plan view shows wheelchair space 760 mm (30 inches) wide minimum by 1220 mm (48 inches) long minimum.

T402.4.1 Front or Rear Approach.  Where the short side of the wheelchair space can be entered from the front or rear and the confined space is more than 610 mm (24 inches) deep, the wheelchair space shall be 915 mm (36 inches) minimum by 1220 mm (48 inches) minimum.

Figure T402.4.1 Forward Approach.  Plan view of a van interior with an occupied wheelchair space in the rear that provides a forward that shows the space to be at least 915 mm (36 inches) wide minimum because its confined more than 610 mm (24 inches) along the sides.

T402.4.2 Side Approach.  Where the long side of the wheelchair space can be entered from the side and the confined space is more than 380 mm (15 inches) deep, the wheelchair space shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum by 1525 mm (60 inches) minimum.

Figure T402.4.2(a)  Side Approach.  Bus interior in plan view shows an occupied forward facing wheelchair space entered from the side that is 1525 mm (60 inches) long minimum because the confined space is more than 380 mm (15 inches) deep.

Figure T402.4.2(b)  Side Approach.  Bus interior in plan view shows an occupied rearward facing wheelchair space entered from the side that is 1525 mm (60 inches) long minimum because the confined space is more than 380 mm (15 inches) deep.

Advisory T402.4 Size.  When the wheelchair space is confined on three sides, such as against a side wall and between a fold-up seat and wheel housing, the additional space is needed only for maneuvering the wheelchair into and out of the area.  The additional space can be reclaimed by fold-down seats as soon as the wheelchair is in place.  For a front or rear approach, the additional width is needed to allow the wheelchair casters to swivel when exiting.

T403 Securement Systems

T403.1 General.  Securement systems, including attachments, shall comply with T403.  Securement systems shall be capable of securing wheelchairs and mobility aids that can enter and maneuver within an accessible vehicle.  Securement systems shall be automatic or easy to operate by a trained person.

T403.2 Design Force.  Securement systems shall comply with T403.2.1 or T403.2.2, as applicable.

T403.2.1 Large Vehicles.  On vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 13,608 kg (30,000 pounds) or more, securement systems shall restrain a force in the forward longitudinal direction of up to 20 N (2,000 pounds) for each attachment or clamping mechanism, and 39 N (4,000 pounds) minimum for each wheelchair or mobility aid.

T403.2.2 Small Vehicles.  On vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 13,608 kg (30,000 pounds), securement systems shall restrain a force in the forward longitudinal direction of up to 24 N (2,500 pounds) for each attachment or clamping mechanism, and 49 N (5,000 pounds) minimum for each wheelchair or mobility aid.

T403.3 Movement.  Securement systems shall limit the movement of an occupied wheelchair or mobility aid so that no part of the wheelchair or mobility aid that is in contact with the vehicle floor when initially secured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions moves more than 51 mm (2 inches) in any direction under normal vehicle operating conditions.

Advisory T403.3 Movement.  Securement systems are provided for passengers who want their wheelchairs and mobility aids secured.  The restricted movement requirement does not apply to wheelchairs and mobility aids which are not secured by a securement system, including wheelchairs and mobility aids in rear-facing wheelchair spaces.

“In any direction” means no part of the wheelchair or mobility aid that is in contact with the vehicle floor when initially secured moves more than 51 mm (2 inches) horizontally, vertically, or in an arc.  The “normal operating conditions” are specific to the provider.  Vehicles which operate in hilly terrain or on winding roads will have more severe constraints than those in flat areas.

T403.4 Orientation.  Securement systems shall be positioned so that wheelchairs and mobility aids face the front or rear of the vehicle when secured.  On vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet) in length, at least one securement system shall be positioned so that wheelchairs and mobility aids face the front of the vehicle when secured.

T403.5 Padded Head Rest.  If securement systems are positioned so that wheelchairs and mobility aids face the rear of the vehicle when secured, a padded head rest complying with T403.5 shall be provided at the back of the wheelchair space. 

T403.5.1 Width.  The padded head rest shall be 255 mm (10 inches) wide minimum, and shall be centered on the wheelchair space.  

T403.5.2 Height.  The padded head rest shall extend from 965 mm (38 inches) to 1420 mm (56 inches) above the vehicle floor.  

T403.5.3 Protrusion.  The plane of the face of the padded head rest shall protrude into the wheelchair space 230 mm (9 inches) minimum and 305 mm (12 inches) maximum measured from the plane of the rear wall or panel of the wheelchair space.

Advisory T403.5 Padded Head Rest.  The padded head rest is intended to reduce the possibility of whiplash in a sudden stop.  The padded head rest must be positioned approximately in line with the plane of the wheelchair or mobility aid backrest, and the bottom edge of the head rest is required to be above the approximate height of the backrest.  Many wheelchair users have backpacks on their wheelchairs.  If the bottom edge of the padded head rest is below the top of the backrest, the head rest may encounter the backpack and prevent the wheelchair from being positioned close to the head rest. 

Figure T403.5 Padded Head Rest.  Elevation and plan figures show person using wheelchair and padded headrest that extends from 965 mm (38 inches) to 1420 mm (56 inches) above the vehicle floor, is 255 mm (10 inches) wide minimum, and is centered on the wheelchair space into which it protrudes 230 mm (9 inches) minimum and 305 mm (12 inches) maximum measured from the plane of the rear wall or panel of the wheelchair space.

T403.6 Stowage.  When securement systems are not in use, the systems shall not protrude into the wheelchair space, and shall not interfere with passenger movement or pose a hazard.  Securement systems shall be reasonably protected from vandalism, and shall be readily accessed when needed for use.

T404 Seat Belts and Shoulder Belts.  Seat belts and shoulder belts provided for passengers who use wheelchairs and mobility aids shall comply with the applicable requirements of 49 CFR § 571.209 and 49 CFR § 571.210.  Seat belts and shoulder belts shall not be used in place of securement systems complying with T403 to secure wheelchairs and mobility aids to vehicles.



CHAPTER T5: CIRCULATION PATHS AND DOORWAYS ON BUSES, OVER-THE-ROAD BUSES, AND VANS

T501 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T5 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.

T502 Circulation Paths

T502.1 General.  Circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall comply with T502.

T502.2 Clear Width.  The clear width of circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall be 865 mm (34 inches) minimum from the vehicle floor to a height 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the vehicle floor.  From a height 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the vehicle floor, the clear width of circulation paths shall be 760 mm (30 inches) minimum to the height specified in Table T502.

Table T502 Circulation Path Clear Width

Vehicle Length

Minimum Height Above 1015 mm

(40 inches)

Vehicles 6.7 m (22 feet) or less

1420 mm (56 inches) above vehicle floor

Over-the-road buses

1650 mm (65 inches) above vehicle floor

Other vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet)

1725 mm (68 inches) above vehicle floor

 

Advisory T502.2 Clear Width.  Using a 3D model or other computer design tool that depicts an occupied wheelchair moving from the vehicle doorway to the wheelchair space will help to ensure that the clear width of the circulation path complies with T502.2.

Figure T502.2 Clear Width.  The clear width of circulation paths between seats is shown to be 865 mm (34 inches) minimum from the vehicle floor to a height 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum above the vehicle floor.  Above a height 1015 mm (40 inches) minimum from the vehicle floor, the clear width is 760 mm (30 inches) minimum to the height of:  1420 mm (56 inches) above vehicle floor in vehicles 6.7 m (22 feet) or less, 1650 mm (65 inches) above vehicle floor in over-the-road buses, and 1725 mm (68 inches) above vehicle floor	in other vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet)	.

T502.3 Features on Circulation Paths.  Features on circulation paths connecting wheelchair spaces to doorways shall be located so as to not interfere with the maneuvering of wheelchairs and mobility aids.  Stanchions located directly behind the driver seat shall terminate at the surface of aisle facing seats where provided, or shall be turned away from the circulation path below the driver seat.  Where provided on vehicles, fare collection devices shall be located as close to the dashboard as possible.

T503 Doorways 

T503.1 Doorways with Boarding Devices.  The vertical clearance at doorways with boarding devices shall be in accordance with Table T503.1 measured vertically from the top of the door opening to the vehicle floor, or to the surface of the boarding device when deployed to the vehicle floor level.

Table T503.1 Vertical Clearance at Doorways with Boarding Devices

Vehicle Length

Minimum Vertical Clearance

Vehicles 6.7 m (22 feet) or less

1420 mm (56 inches)

Over-the-road buses

1650 mm (65 inches)  

Other vehicles more than 6.7 m (22 feet)

1725 mm (68 inches)

T503.2 Doorways with Level Entry Boarding.  Doorways with level entry boarding shall comply with T503.2. 

T503.2.1 Clear Width.  Doorways shall provide a clear opening of 810 mm (32 inches) minimum.

T503.2.2 Thresholds.  Thresholds at doorways shall be marked by a strip.  The strip shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the circulation path surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

T503.3 Doorways on Over-the-Road Buses.  On over-the road buses, doorways with steps shall provide a clear opening 760 mm (30 inches) minimum from the lowest step tread to a height 1220 mm (48 inches) above the lowest step tread.  Where compliance is not structurally feasible, the clear opening shall be permitted to be 685 mm (27 inches).  The clear opening shall be permitted to taper to 457 mm (18 inches) minimum from a height 1220 mm (48 inches) above the lowest step tread to the top of the doorway.  Hinges and other door mechanisms shall be permitted to protrude 100 mm (4 inches) maximum into the clear opening.

T504 Steps

T504.1 General.  Steps shall comply with T504.

T504.2 Surfaces.  Step tread surfaces shall comply with T802.

T504.3 Visual Contrast.  The outer edge of step treads shall be marked by a strip.  The strip shall be 25 mm (1 inch) wide minimum and shall contrast visually with the rest of the step tread or circulation path surface either light-on-dark or dark-on-light.

T505 Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds

T505.1 General.  Handrails, stanchions, and handholds shall comply with T505 and T804.

T505.2 Doorways.  Handrails and stanchions at passenger doorways shall be configured so that passengers with disabilities can grasp the handrails and stanchions from outside the vehicle, and use the handrails and stanchions throughout the boarding and alighting process.

T505.3 Fare Collection Devices.  Handrails at fare collection devices shall be configured so that passengers with disabilities can use the handrail for support when using the fare collection device.

T505.4 Circulation Paths.  Handrails and stanchions along circulation paths shall be configured so that passengers with disabilities can use the handrails when moving through the vehicle. 

T505.5 Seats.  Handholds and stanchions on the backs of forward and rear facing seats shall be located directly adjacent to the aisle so that passengers with disabilities can use the handholds and handrails when moving from the aisles to the seats.


 

[CHAPTER T6: CIRCULATION PATHS AND DOORWAYS ON RAIL VEHICLES]  



CHAPTER T7: COMMUNICATION FEATURES

T701 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T7 shall apply where required by Chapter T2.

T702 Signs 

T702.1 General.  Characters on signs shall comply with T702.

T702.2 Character Proportions.  Characters shall be selected from fonts where the width of the uppercase letter "O" is 55 percent minimum and 110 percent maximum of the height of the uppercase letter "I".

T702.3 Character Height.  Character height shall comply with Table T702.3.  Character height shall be based on the uppercase letter “I”.

Table T702.3 Character Height

Sign

Minimum Character Height

Exterior route or destination signs on boarding side of vehicle

51 mm (2 inches)

Exterior route or destination signs on front of vehicle

100 mm (4 inches)

Interior signs designating wheelchair  spaces or priority seats, where baseline of character is 1015 mm (40 inches) to 1780 mm (70 inches) above the vehicle floor

16 mm (⅝ inch)

Interior signs designating wheelchair spaces or priority seats, where baseline of character is more than 1780 mm (70 inches) above the vehicle floor

51 mm (2 inches)

 

T702.4 Stroke Thickness.  Stroke thickness of the uppercase letter "I" shall be 10 percent minimum and 30 percent maximum of the height of the character.

T702.5 Character Spacing.  Character spacing shall be measured between the two closest points of adjacent characters, excluding word spaces.  Spacing between individual characters shall be 10 percent minimum and 35 percent maximum of character height.

T702.6 Line Spacing.  Spacing between the baselines of separate lines of characters within a message shall be 135 percent minimum and 170 percent maximum of the character height.

T702.7 Contrast.  Characters shall contrast with their background with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters on a light background.

T703.  International Symbol of Accessibility.  The International Symbol of Accessibility shall comply with Figure T703.  The symbol shall have a background field height of 100 mm (4 inches) minimum.  The symbol and its background shall have a non-glare finish.  The symbol shall contrast with its background with either a light symbol on a dark background or a dark symbol on a light background.

Figure T703. The International Symbol of Accessibility (side profile pictorgram of a person using a wheelchair).

T704 Automated Route Announcement Systems.  Automated route announcement systems shall provide audible announcements of the vehicle’s route.  Audible announcements shall use recorded or digitized human speech, and shall be capable of being heard at boarding and alighting areas.

T705 Automated Stop Announcement Systems.  Automated stop announcement systems shall provide audible and visible announcements of designated boarding and alighting areas on the vehicle’s assigned route.  Audible announcements shall use recorded or digitized human speech.  Visible announcements shall be a sign complying with T702 at the front of the vehicle.

T706 Stop Request Systems

T706.1 General.  Stop request systems shall provide audible and visible indicators when passengers request a vehicle to stop at designated boarding and alighting areas on the vehicle’s assigned route.  Audible indicators shall be verbal or non-verbal signals, and shall sound only once for each stop.  Visible indicators shall be a light or sign complying with T702 at the front of the vehicle, and shall extinguish when the vehicle door opens at a stop. 

T706.2 Operation.  Stop request systems shall be operable at each wheelchair space and at priority seats for passengers with disabilities.  Operable parts shall comply with T805.  At wheelchair spaces, operable parts shall be located on a side wall or partition 610 mm (24 inches) minimum and 915 mm (36 inches) maximum from the back of the wheelchair space.

 



CHAPTER T8: OTHER FEATURES

T801 General.  The technical requirements in Chapter T8 shall apply where required by Chapter T2 or where referenced by a requirement in this document.

T802 Surfaces

T802.1 General.  Surfaces shall comply with T802.

Advisory T802.1Surfaces.  The technical requirements for surfaces in T802 apply to circulation paths (T203.4.1), lift platforms (T302.5.1), ramps and bridgeplates (T303.5), wheelchair spaces (T402.2), and step treads (T504.2).

T802.2 Slip Resistant.  Surfaces shall be slip resistant.

T802.3 Openings.  Openings in surfaces shall not allow the passage of a sphere more than 13 mm (½ inch) diameter.  Elongated openings shall be placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to dominant direction of travel.  Lift platforms that are folded and stowed manually, and ramps and bridgeplates that are deployed manually shall be permitted to have a cut-out in the surface 38 mm (1½ inches) maximum by 115 mm (4½ inches) maximum for the operator to grasp the surface.

T802.4 Protrusions.  Protrusions on surfaces shall be permitted to be 6.4 mm (¼ inch) high maximum.

T802.5 Surface Discontinuities.  Surface discontinuities shall be 6.4 mm (¼ inch) high maximum without edge treatment and 13 mm (½ inch) high maximum with beveled edge treatment.  The bevel shall have a slope not steeper than 1:2 (50 percent) applied across the entire surface discontinuity.

Figure T802.5 Surface Discontinuities.  Surface discontinuities shown in profile to be 6.4 mm (¼ inch) high maximum without edge treatment and 13 mm (½ inch) high maximum with an edge beveled 1:2.

Advisory T802.5 Surface Discontinuities.  Two adjacent surfaces can have discontinuities up to 13 mm (½ inch).  If the surface discontinuity is over 6.4 mm (¼ inch), a bevel with a maximum slope of 1:2 (50 percent) is required, and the bevel must blend the entire surface discontinuity with no lip.

T803 Doorway Lighting.  Lighting at doorways shall comply with Table T803.  Lighting shall not shine directly in the eyes of passengers when entering and exiting doorways.

Table T803 Areas Illuminated and Illuminance Levels

Vehicles

Areas Illuminated

Illuminance Levels

Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Lift Platforms

When lift is raised or lowered between the vehicle floor and the boarding and alighting area or roadway, 55 lux (5 foot-candles) illuminance on all portions of the lift platform surface throughout the lift cycle

When lift is at the boarding and alighting area or roadway level, 11 lux (1 foot-candle) of illuminance on the surface of the threshold ramp

Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Ramps

Bridgeplates

When ramp or bridgeplate is deployed to the boarding or alighting area or roadway, 22 lux (2 foot-candles) of illuminance on all portions of the ramp or bridgeplate surface

Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Steps at doorways adjacent to the driver

When doors are open, 22 lux (2 foot-candles) of illuminance on step tread surfaces

Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Steps at doorways not adjacent to the driver

At all times, 22 lux (2 foot-candles) of illuminance on step tread surfaces

Buses

Over-the-Road Buses

Vans

Boarding and alighting areas adjacent to doorways

When doors are open, 11 lux (1 foot-candle) of illuminance measured at points on boarding and alighting area surfaces 915 mm (36 inches) perpendicular from the outer edge of the bottom step tread or the doorway threshold

T804 Additional Requirements for Handrails, Stanchions, and Handholds

T804.1 General.  Handrails, stanchions, and handholds shall comply with T804.

T804.2 Edges.  Edges shall be rounded.

T804.3 Cross Section.  Gripping surfaces shall have a cross section complying with T804.3.1 or T804.3.2.

T804.3.1 Circular Cross Section.  Gripping surfaces with a circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of 32 mm (1¼ inches) minimum and 51 mm (2 inches) maximum.

T804.3.2 Non-Circular Cross Section.  Gripping surfaces with a non-circular cross section shall have a perimeter dimension of 100 mm (4 inches) minimum and 160 mm (6¼ inches) maximum, and a cross section dimension of 57 mm (2¼ inches) maximum.

Figure T804.3.2 Non-Circular Cross Section.  Gripping surfaces with non-circular cross sections (one that is square with rounded edges and another that is oval) are shown with a perimeter dimension of 100 mm (4 inches) minimum and 160 mm (6¼ inches) maximum, and a cross section dimension of 57 mm (2¼ inches) maximum.

T804.4 Clearance.  Clearance between gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces shall be 38 mm (1½ inches) minimum.

Figure T804.4 Clearance.  The clearance between gripping surfaces and adjacent surfaces is  shown in profile to be 38 mm (1½ inches) minimum.

T804.5 Structural Strength.  Handrails on lift platform surfaces shall be capable of withstanding a force of 445 N (100 pounds) applied at any point on the handrail without permanent deformation of the handrail or supporting structure.

T805 Operable Parts. 

T805.1 General.  Operable parts shall comply with T805.

T805.2 Height.  Operable parts shall be located 380 mm (15 inches) minimum and 1220 mm (48 inches) maximum above the vehicle floor. 

Figure T805.2 Height.  Elevation figure shows reach range of a person using a wheelchair to be 380 mm (15 inches) minimum and 1220 mm (48 inches) maximum above the vehicle floor.

T805.3 Operation.  Operable parts shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.  The force required to activate operable parts shall be 22.2 N (5 lb) maximum.

T806 Fare Collection Devices.  Operable parts of fare collection devices shall comply with T805.  The operable parts shall be located so that a wheelchair or mobility aid can approach within 255 mm (10 inches) maximum.

Advisory T806 Fare Collection Devices.  Fare collection devices that incorporate smart card technology are easier for passengers with disabilities to use.



AMENDMENTS TO AMERCIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES AND ARCHITECTURAL BARRIERS ACT (ABA) ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES

218 Transportation Facilities

218.1 General.  Transportation facilities shall comply with 218.

218.2 New and Altered Fixed Guideway Stations.  New and altered stations in for level boarding bus systems and fixed guideway systems, including, but not limited to, rapid rail, light rail, commuter rail, intercity rail, and high speed rail, and other fixed guideway systems shall comply with 810.5 through 810.10

F218 Transportation Facilities

F218.1 General.  Transportation facilities shall comply with 218.

F218.2 New and Altered Fixed Guideway Stations.  New and altered stations in for level boarding bus systems and fixed guideway systems, including, but not limited to, rapid rail, light rail, commuter rail, intercity rail, and high speed rail, and other fixed guideway systems shall comply with 810.5 through 810.10

810 Transportation Facilities

810.1 General.  Transportation facilities shall comply with 810.

810.2 Bus Boarding and Alighting Areas.  Bus boarding and alighting areas on sidewalks and at street level shall comply with 810.2.

810.2.2 Dimensions.  Bus boarding and alighting areas shall provide a clear length of 96 inches (2440 mm) 108 inches (2646 mm) minimum, measured perpendicular to the curb or vehicle roadway edge, and a clear width of 60 inches (1525 mm) 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum, measured parallel to the vehicle roadway.

810.5 Rail Station Platforms.  Rail Station platforms in level boarding bus systems and fixed guideway systems shall comply with 810.5.

810.5.1 Slope.  Rail Station platforms shall not exceed a slope of 1:48 in all directions.

EXCEPTION: Where station platforms serve vehicles operating on existing track or track laid in existing roadway, the slope of the platform parallel to the track or roadway shall be permitted to be equal to the slope (grade) of the roadway or existing track or existing roadway.

810.5.3 Station Platform and Vehicle Floor Coordination.  Station The design of station platforms shall be positioned to coordinate coordinated with vehicles in accordance with the applicable requirements of 36 CFR Part 1192.  Low level platforms shall be 8 inches (205mm) minimum above top of rail.