As more and more companies are investing in barrier-free washrooms and automatic door operators, the myth that there is a one-size-fits-all accessible door continues to percolate across the province. This myth is quite common, and here at Accesio we are going to do a bit of a deep dive into this common misconception and how different-sized wheelchairs need a variety of features to make the space accessible.
The Myth Itself
Let’s start at the beginning: there is a common misconception that a 36-inch door will be accessible no matter what. Now, a 36-inch door is a great option, as it provides ample room to go in and out, but it can present challenges for some users. As the door is so large, it is extra-wide, which makes it harder for users to reach, and without proper features, some users will struggle to close the door. So, when considering accessibility features, bigger is not always better, and we can look at different types of wheelchairs to show you why.
The Standard Manual Wheelchair
When you think of a wheelchair, you are most likely thinking of your standard manual wheelchair, often used for transit and everyday use. These chairs will range from 24 to 27 inches, which is the baseline for the ADA-compliant 32-inch doorway. These wheelchairs are not large, but do provide someone the mobility they need to get to and from a location. As the chair is not super wide, accessing accessible features like closing mechanisms or buttons can be a challenge if the door is too large or if the features are in a tough-to-reach spot.
The Compact Wheelchair
Compact wheelchairs are often used by those with smaller frames and are ideal for navigating tight indoor spaces. These chairs will be only 20 to 22 inches wide, which means reaching specific actuators or handles can be a challenge if they are not properly placed. These chairs can fit through smaller door frames and are a perfect fit for the ADA-compliant 32-inch width, but users may struggle with accessing larger doors.
The Bariatric Wheelchair
Bariatric, or otherwise known as heavy-duty, wheelchairs are for those with a larger frame and are generally between 28 and 33 inches wide. This means that some of these wheelchairs will not fit the standard 32-inch accessible door frame and will require a larger door to use. Now, these chairs are not as common as others, but do require at least a 34-inch frame to access properly.
The Power Wheelchair
Power wheelchairs, also known as Electric wheelchairs, come in a wide variety of sizes and frames and are generally customized to the specific user. These wheelchairs have a battery pack and motor on the back and are generally between 25 and 32 inches wide. Now, you can squeeze through a 32-inch door, but for ease, it is best to consider a 34-inch-plus option to keep users comfortable using the space.
The Answer
So, you might be asking: ok, if a 36-inch door isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, what should I do if I am investing in an accessible door to ensure all users can access my space? Well, the truth of the matter is that your door size will depend on your specific building and use case. To be ADA-compliant in Edmonton, you need to have a door opening of at least 32 inches. However, the best practice is to install 36-inch widths for new builds, public buildings, and barrier-free entrances in your building or washrooms. As you can see, there is no simple answer, and that is where working with a barrier-free company like Accesio can help find the right sized accessible door for your building.
How Accesio Can Help
Accesio has been working in the barrier-free industry for years, and with a line of actuators, sensors and automatic door operators, you will be in good hands when you turn to us to create a barrier-free washroom or entrance. Our experts can work with you to determine the specific door size based on your building layout and what you are looking to achieve. Not only do we know the Alberta Building Code and National Building Code like the back of our hand, but our years in the accessibility space will ensure that you are investing in a properly sized door for your users.
If you are interested in investing in a barrier-free washroom or entranceway door in Edmonton, AB and are not sure where to start, we are here to help. From initial conversations to final installation, our team of door experts will work with you to identify suitable, ADA-compliant accessibility upgrades that make sense for your building and deliver a value-add investment that will pay dividends for years.
