36 CFR Part 1194 - Proposed Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Standards and Guidelines NPRM - Preamble

407.12.1 Vertical Reference Plane (Section-by-Section Analysis)

This section proposes that the positioning of operable parts for side reaches and forward reaches be determined with respect to a vertical reference plane, with the location and length of the plane dependent on the type of reach.. The provisions for a side reach in existing 508 Standards § 1194.25(j)(1) contain references to this same vertical reference plane.

407.12.1.1 Vertical Plane for Side Reach (Section-by-Section Analysis)

This section proposes that, where a side approach is provided, the vertical reference plane must have a minimum length of 48 inches. The 48-inch dimension is based on the length of a stationary occupied wheelchair. This side reach requirement mirrors existing 508 Standards § 1194.25(j)(1) and Figure 1.

407.12.1.2 Vertical Plane for Forward Reach (Section-by-Section Analysis)

This section proposes that, where a forward reach is provided, the vertical reference plane must be, at a minimum, 30 inches long. The 30-inch dimension is based on the width of a stationary occupied wheelchair. This dimension is consistent with the ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines (36 CFR Part 1191, Appendix D, section 305.5).