News from Around the Region
Accessibility Codes in New England
Massachusetts State Access Codes vs. ADAAG
The state of Massachusetts through the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (AAB) promulgates and enforces building code pertaining to architectural accessibility that has been in effect since 1968, for state or municipal buildings and since 1975 for all buildings open to and used by the general public. There have been multiple revisions over the years, nine in total, with the most recent in 2006. The AAB, for the most part, has more stringent requirements than those of the ADAAG, with respect to ramps, entrances, curb cuts and other areas.
One of the major differences between the ADAAG and the AAB is the scoping requirements. AAB looks strictly at the dates of construction and renovation, assessed values of buildings prior to the construction, and dollar amounts of the renovations to determine the level of accessibility that can be expected. Since the AAB is building code, there is a variance process. If a particular regulation cannot be met, there are two distinct reasons a variance could be granted. You can find the variance process on the AAB’s website (www.mass.gov/dps), as well as their current and past regulations, information on the complaint process, and contact information for the Agency. Because there are many differences between AAB and ADAAG, those designing and constructing buildings in Massachusetts need to look at both the AAB and ADAAG to ensure the more stringent is met.
The Massachusetts Office on Disability offers Community Access Monitor trainings to help better understand the differences between the state and federal requirements. For more information regarding the training dates, please go to Massachusetts Office on Disability (www.mass.gov/mod) or call (617) 727-7440 V/TTY.
Source: Jeffrey L. Dougan, Assistant Director for Community Services Massachusetts Office on Disability: (617) 727-7440
In Connecticut, Building Code Requirements Enforced By State and Municipal Building Officials
The variance process in CT is called the Lifts and Waivers program. Connecticut General Statutes authorize the Office of Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities to review, in conjunction with the State Building Inspector, requests for exemptions from the accessibility provisions of the State Building Code, and requests for approval to install wheelchair lifts in most types of buildings.
Following are some unique features of the Connecticut State Building Code that are required in addition to the ADA requirements:
- 13” from front of sink to faucet and controls on accessible lavatories in at least one lavatory per gender per bathroom
- A swing away grab bar is required in at least one accessible toilet location per gender per floor
- Pull handle at least 6” from the side hinge on the inside of the door
- Automatic doors–at least one set required in mercantile facilities of 50,000 or more square feet; push pads must be 30’ in height, beyond the swing of the door, and within the 10’ of the door.
- The minimum width of accessible parking spaces is 15’, and shared access aisles between vehicles are not permitted (van spaces are still 16’ wide minimum).
Source: Lisa Caron, Project Director, ADA Coalition of CT: (860) 297-4383
Architectural Accessibility in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has a state code but municipalities are not required to have a building inspector (RSA 673:1). For those that don’t, contractors must notify the state fire marshal before construction begins. I have found many examples of non-compliance where there is no code enforcement. My favorite - a new ramp brought access to a town hall. The ramp was good until I reached the 6-inch step at the door!
The Architectural Barrier-Free Design Code, effective since 1977, adopts “Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities ANSI A117.1-1998”. Building Inspectors enforce the AB code. They cannot legally issue a building permit or certificate of occupancy if they know that the facility does not comply with the AB Code. However, the Architectural Barrier-Free Design Committee has the power to issue waivers.
The State Building Code (RSA 155-A) adopts the 2006 International Building Code; Chapters 11 & 34 and ANSI A117.1-2003 cover accessibility. These codes are easier to understand than the current ADA Standards, requiring better access in toilet rooms with clearer diagrams and more detailed requirements for children’s facilities. Unlike ADAAG, dwelling units are covered. These codes mirror the US Access Board’s 2004 AB-ADAAG. When there is a conflict between the state building code and the state fire code, the fire code takes precedence. The code for Means of Egress is NFPA 101, v. 2003 – Life Safety.
Source: Cheryl Killam, Accessibility Specialist, Governor’s Commission on Disability: (603) 271-4177
