The maximum slope for a ramp within an accessible route of travel for required exits is no steeper than which ratio?

The maximum slope for a ramp within an accessible route of travel for required exits is no steeper than which ratio?

• A. 1 in 12
• B. 1 in 15
• C. 1 in 8
• D. 1 in 10

Answer: (A)

Ramps in accessible routes must not be too steep, so wheelchair users can ascend safely and with control. The standard limit is a slope of 1 inch of rise for every 12 inches of run, i.e., about an 8.3% grade. This maximum keeps the ramp usable for most wheelchairs and provides reasonable push/pull effort, braking, and maneuverability. In practice, if a ramp would rise more than this, landings and rest points are added to keep the overall travel comfortable and safe. Among the options, 1 in 12 is the one that sets the upper limit for slope in an accessible route. Slopes like 1 in 8 or 1 in 10 are steeper and would exceed the allowable grade, making them harder or unsafe for accessibility. A gentler slope such as 1 in 15 is acceptable but not the maximum allowed. Therefore, the maximum permitted slope is 1 in 12.

Ramps in accessible routes must not be too steep, so wheelchair users can ascend safely and with control. The standard limit is a slope of 1 inch of rise for every 12 inches of run, i.e., about an 8.3% grade. This maximum keeps the ramp usable for most wheelchairs and provides reasonable push/pull effort, braking, and maneuverability. In practice, if a ramp would rise more than this, landings and rest points are added to keep the overall travel comfortable and safe.

Among the options, 1 in 12 is the one that sets the upper limit for slope in an accessible route. Slopes like 1 in 8 or 1 in 10 are steeper and would exceed the allowable grade, making them harder or unsafe for accessibility. A gentler slope such as 1 in 15 is acceptable but not the maximum allowed. Therefore, the maximum permitted slope is 1 in 12.