Clearing A Path
April 14, 2008
An important component to accessibility is making sure the interior path of travel is clear of obstacles. This includes corridors, lobbies, elevators, wheelchair lifts and offices. Floor surfaces should be smooth and slip-resistant. Be cautious of floor waxing products that become slippery when wet as this is creates a fall hazard. When using carpet runner at doors and lobbies, make sure the edges are secured to the floor and don't bunch or curl. Make sure items like hanging artwork or fire extinguisher boxes are not mounted between 27 inches and 80 inches from the floor and don't protrude more than 4 inches from a wall or 12 inches from a post since someone with a visual disability walking with a cane would get no warning of these objects. If they must be hung at such a height, place something underneath them to provide a warning. Make sure boxes, file cabinets and similar items do not block hallways or corridors. The path of travel should be at least 36 inches wide.
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