Hallway Width

[Chris Brown]

Thanks Richard, I appreciate that. I told the owner that I have set the hallway width at 60" and told him that if he wants it to be narrower that he and his contractor need to talk directly to the inspector before framing is to begin. The inspector also told me that this would be great and he would give them a definate ruling at that time.

[RMorrison]

The inspector also told me that this would be great and he would give them a definate ruling at that time.

Except, as was noted, a local inspector doesn't typically enforce federal ADA laws. His "ruling" may or may not be correct, and I doubt would shield you much from a federal lawsuit in any event.

[VHampton]

Agreed with what Richard said. If you've got the room Chris the go ahead and leave it five wide. At the very least two people can walk side by side down the corridor.

In looking at your plan you would need a certain amount of turning room at the far doorway and therefore five feet would come into play. From a design standpoint the hallway is going to much look cleaner if you let the same width run all the way through. 6" missing from the conference room and offices won't even be noticed.

http://www.chieftalk.com/attachment....2&d=1358267009

[lbuttery]

this chart is from the 2012 IBC amendments

Lew

[Chris Brown]

Thanks Val and Lew, I appreciate it.

[RMorrison]

this chart is from the 2012 IBC amendments

Lew

Lew, this is very nice, but has nothing to do with federal ADA requirements. You have to look at ALL of the governing codes and use the most restrictive.

[dshall]

...............You have to look at ALL of the governing codes and use the most restrictive.

A very wise statement, there are always a bunch of "ifs" and "buts" and "exceptions" with this kind of stuff.

[VHampton]

What Lew posted is correct but a few considerations have to be made. Most importantly, the usage of the building needs to be determined along with how many occupants might be racing towards the exit in the event of an emergency. A building and zoning official at the local municipality is definitely the one who should be able to provide the answer.

From looking at the office plan, it's probably going to be categorized under a business with office space. Business (Group B) is defined as places where services are provided. Examples: banks, insurance agencies, government buildings (including police and fire stations), and doctor's offices.

While the ADA requires a minimum clearance for wheelchair passage, the group B business occupancy classification will require a minimum 44" corridor width and if a maneuvering space is required for wheelchair turning, a 60" turning radius is required.

If 60" is needed to be able to complete a circle at the door, then why not add 16" to the entire corridor and make it continuous throughout.

[lbuttery]

You have to look at ALL of the governing codes and use the most restrictive.

Richard:

I never said it was the FINAL WORD

the IBC codes are just one piece of the puzzle

Lew