Ramps: five important facts

August 10, 11:35 PMDenver Mobility Products ExaminerKathryn Arbour

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Mobility and independence cannot be fully discussed without the topic of ramps. Of primary importance is demystifying the notion that all ramps are prohibitively costly and unsightly. Ramps are also more than a sturdy plank leaned against a pair of stairs. While there are many aspects of ramps to consider, these five facts will provide important guidance:

1. The length of the ramp is dependent on the measurement of the rise, the vertical distance between the ground and the top of the area to be accessed. Trying to determine what size ramp is appropriate without this measurement is simply a guessing game.
2. The ground should be level. Special considerations must be taken otherwise. Consult an expert.
3. The use of a portable ramp or installation of a more permanent ramping system depends primarily on the rise. Aesthetic factors should take a secondary role in the decision-making process.
4. Materials used for ramping are essential. Ramps constructed of wood typically require professional installation and should adhere to ADA standards (noted below). Many portable or modular ramps on the market are constructed of aluminum with welded frames. Skid resistance surfaces are essential on wood and aluminum ramps.
5. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends a slope ratio of one foot of ramp for every foot of rise, creating about a 4.8º slope. In other words, if you have a 6 inch rise, ADA recommends a 6 foot ramp. This long slope generally works for most manual wheelchair users who self-propel. A 2:12 slope is the maximum acceptable for a portable ramp when the wheelchair or power vehicle is occupied and there is assistance. All manufacturers of portable ramps strongly urge that 3:12 should only be used when loading or unloading unoccupied wheelchairs or vehicles. Steeper slopes are not considered safe under any circumstances.

Selecting a ramp requires as much attention as selecting other mobility products. Keeping these five points in mind will bring clarity to the decision.

Send your mobility product questions and ideas to Kathryn at kmarbour@capabilities.com. Find more articles on mobility products and assistive devices on Kathryn's home page.

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Details on building wheelchair ramps

View a selection of portable ramps