Sec.19-395a-1. Construction standards

The following standards shall apply, as provided by sections 19-395a to 19-395c, inclusive, of the general statutes, to all buildings and facilities constructed, remodeled or repaired by the state or its agents or by any political subdivision of the state or its agents when state funds or state interest is involved. In accomplishing the intent and purpose of these standards, reference is made to the Standard Specifications A117.1-1961 prepared and approved October 81, 1961, by the American Standards Association.

(1) Grading. The grading of ground shall be such that it attains a level with a normal entrance or a gradient ramp thereto, and makes the facility accessible to individuals with physical disabilities.

(2) Ramps with gradients. Where ramps with gradients are necessary or desired, they shall conform to the following specifications: Ramps shall not have a slope greater than one foot rise in twelve feet, or eight and thirty-three one hundredths per cent, or four degrees fifty minutes.

(3) Entrances. At least one primary entrance to each building shall be usable by individuals in wheelchairs, avoiding abrupt changes in levels and with thresholds flush with the floor. At least one entrance usable by individuals in wheelchairs shall be on a level which shall make the elevators accessible.

(4) Doors and doorways. Doors shall have a clear opening of not less than thirty-two inches when open and shall be operable by a single effort.

(5) Toilet rooms. An appropriate number of toilet rooms, in accordance with the nature and use of a specific building or facility, shall be made accessible to and usable by the physically handicapped. Such toilet rooms shall have space to allow traffic of individuals in wheelchairs. A space of approximately sixty inches by sixty inches is required for turning. Each toilet room shall have at least one toilet stall which is or has: (A) Three feet wide; (B) at least four feet eight inches, preferably five feet deep; (C) a door, where doors are used, which is thirty-two inches wide and swings out, (D) handrails on each side, thirty-three inches high and parallel to the floor, one and one-half inches in outside diameter, with one and one-half inches clearance between rail and wall, and fastened securely at ends and center.

(6) Elevators. In a multiple-story building, elevators are essential to the successful functioning of physically disabled individuals. They shall conform to the following requirements: Elevators shall be accessible to, and usable by, the physically disabled on the level which they use to enter the building, and at all levels normally used by the general public.

(7) Controls. Switches and controls for light, heat, ventilation, elevators, windows, draperies, fire alarms, and all similar controls of frequent or essential use, shall be placed within the reach of individuals in wheelchairs.

(8) Parking. Where parking facilities are provided, suitable parking spaces shall be provided and so identified for the use of the physically handicapped.

(9) Public telephones. If public telephones are provided in the building, an appropriate number shall be made accessible to and usable by the physically handicapped.

(10) Warning signals. Audible warning signals shall be accompanied by simultaneous visible signals for the benefit of those with hearing disabilities.

(Effective September 13, 1966)