2004 ADA Checklist for Polling Places

D. Building Entrance

Typical Issues

An accessible polling place must have at least one accessible entrance. The accessible entrance must be connected to an accessible route. An accessible entrance must provide at least one accessible door with maneuvering space, accessible door hardware, and enough clear width to allow people who use crutches, a cane, walker, scooter or wheelchair to use it.

Notes:

1. Accessible entrance to the polling place.

2. Accessible route connecting accessible parking and drop-off area (if provided) to the accessible entrance.

If the accessible entrance is not the main entrance to the polling place, then signs must be located at inaccessible entrances to the polling place to direct voters to the accessible entrance. The accessible entrance must remain open when the polling place is open.

Examples of signs for inaccessible polling place entrances directing a voter to the accessible entrance.

Building Entrance Checklist

D1. Is there at least one accessible entrance connected to an accessible route?
[ADA Stds 4.1.3(1)]
Notes: If this entrance is not the main entrance, it needs to be kept unlocked during voting hours.  If there are inaccessible entrances serving the polling place, signs will be needed at inaccessible entrance(s) to direct voters to the nearest accessible entrance.

Yes _____ No _____

D2. Does at least one door or one side of a double leaf door at the accessible entrance provide at least 32 inches clear passage width when the door is open 90 degrees?
[See figure 24 in the appendix at the back of the checklist]

Yes _____ No _____

If No, does another entrance have an accessible door or can both doors be propped open during voting? Other possible solutions are to enlarge the door opening, use a swing clear hinge, or, if a double leaf door, use uneven width doors.

D3. Is the door hardware (e.g., lever, pull, panic bar) usable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist? [ADA Stds 4.13.9]

Yes _____ No _____

If No, leave door propped open, add new accessible hardware, or adapt/replace hardware.

Examples of handles and door hardware that can be used without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting.

D4. On the pull side of the door, is there at least 18 inches clearance provided to the side of the latch if the door is not automatic or power-operated? [ADA Stds 4.13.6, figure 25]

Note: The maximum threshold height is 1/2 inch for new construction.
If No, leave the door propped open, install a power operator, or look for another accessible entrance.

Yes _____ No _____

D5. If there is a raised threshold, is it no higher than 3/4 inch at the door and beveled on both sides? [ADA Stds 4.1.6(3)(d)(ii), 4.13.8]

Yes _____ No _____

If No, replace threshold with one with beveled sides or add sloped insert to threshold.

D6. If an entry has a vestibule, is there a 30-inch by 48-inch clear floor space inside the vestibule where a wheelchair or scooter user can be outside the swing of a hinged door?
[ADA Stds 4.13.7]

Yes _____ No _____

If No, leave the inner door open or remove inner door, add power operators to both doors so they open at the same time or, modify the vestibule.

Insufficient space between doors makes the alcove inaccessible.

Minimum alcove depth of 48 inches if both doors open out

Minimum alcove depth of 48 inches + door width when door swings into alcove

Temporary Solutions for Election Day

Accessible Entrance to Polling Place

Problem One:

One or two steps at the entrance prevent access.

Suggestion: If another entrance is accessible and on an accessible route from accessible parking, designate it as the accessible entrance and install a directional sign at the main entrance directing voters to the accessible entrance. Keep the accessible entrance unlocked during voting hours.

If another accessible entrance is not available, install a temporary ramp with edge protection and handrails.

Problem Two:

There is a small step at the entrance.

Suggestion: Install a short temporary ramp to provide a smooth transition.

Problem Three:

Entrance door threshold has an abrupt change in level of more than 1/4 inch and no beveled sides.

Suggestion: If the threshold is not more than 3/4 inches high, add beveled surfaces to both sides of the threshold or replace with a new threshold that is no more than 1/2 inch high and that has beveled sides.

Problem Four:

Entrance door to the building is heavy and difficult to open.

Suggestion: Keep the door propped open or station volunteers near the door to open it for voters.

Problem Five:

Door handle and/or latch at the entry door is not accessible.

Suggestion: These are three typical solutions: add an accessible pull or handle to the outside of the door and leave the door unlatched, or install an accessible door handle and hardware, or leave the door propped in an open position.