TAS 3.5.9 Definition of Alterations |
There are many instances when a facilty is getting renovated by just changing the finishes. Most of the time, these changes and renovations do not have to be reviewed for compliance since they are cosmetic by nature and do not fit the defintion of an alteration.
The definition for alterations in TAS chapter 3, states:
"An alteration is a change to a building or facility... .. Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting or wallpapering, or changes to mechanical and electrical systems are not alterations unless they affect the usability of the building or facility." If you notice the last statement..."unless they affect the usability of the building..." This means that changing the floor , for example, could affect the usability because there may be a material that is not slip resistant, or one flooring material may be higher than an adjacent floor and therefore could affect its usability. What this definition refers to are things that don't affect a person with a disability (i.e. wall finishes, ceiling finishes, mechanical system, roofing systems etc.) So if your "maintenance" project includes flooring and it is over $50,000 you will be required to submit it for review and inspection. 
Fig. 7c showing the maximum change in level we are allowed in flooring materials.
Fig. 8c showing the maximum height of a carpet. |
Inspector's corner: Ramp handrail extensions |
A handrail, unless it is continuous, must extend 12" at the top and bottom of the ramp.
The definition of a continuous handrail is a handrail that wraps around a switch back ramp or stair. It would not be considered continuous to wrap the handrail around the corner 12". The extension must be parallel to the ground and along the path of travel.
So the handrail in this photograph is not acceptable.
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On the lighter side: |
As we go about our serious business of making life better for those who are disabled, let's not loose sight of what is really important....
Which one of these toilet paper rolls should I measure for compliance? |