MODULE # 03: Barrier-Free Ramp Design

Learning Outcomes

"By the end of the module, Learners will be able to:  

• state the components required for each of the 3 ramp assemblies in assignment #1
• identify special issues or requirements unique to a particular ramp assembly type
• understand, and engage in, the process for solving ramp design construction details

Contents

• 1. The Process of Creating the Construction Details
• 2. Type 1: Wood
• 3. Type 2: Concrete
• 4. Type 3: Pre-cast Concrete Units
• 5.  Type 4: Hybrid
•  6.  Guards and Handrail assembly suggestions

1.  The Process of Creating the Construction Details

Given the requirements of the OBC as compiled in the last class (OBC data matrix)

Given the ramp configuration as determined in your design showing the desired direction of approach and ramp location

Given the change of elevation, required slope and maximum landing spacing allowed, calculate the overall length of your ramp

Research the assigned assembly components, limitations and opportunities, advantages and disadvantages

Begin by drawing the the section reference locations on your sketch plan.

Identify special situations where the typical detail needs to be modified.

Determine all the required components and attachments.

2.  Type 1: Wood

 essentially designed to resemble a sloping wood deck 

	ELEMENT	DESCRIPTION
	Running Surface	38 x 140 PTP decking perpendicular to direction of travel with 10mm spacing between boards
	Handrail / Guardrail	38 x 140 PTP
	Structure	38 x 235 PTP stringers with 38 x 89 ledgers and cross bracing
	Foundations / Footings	90 x 90 wd posts @ 3000 O.C. max on 150mm Dia. poured concrete piers to 1200 below grade minimum

special areas of concern are:

• the transition from the grade to the 38 x 140 wood running surface of the ramp

• recommended post spacing

• intermediate guardrail support

• closing of the space underneath the ramp

3.  Type 2: Poured Concrete 

essentially designed to resemble a poured concrete sloped slab on beams or as a slab on grade with retaining walls.

	ELEMENT	DESCRIPTION
	Running Surface	100mm slab on grade c/w a broom finish
	Handrail / Guardrail	38mm Dia. steel pipe
	Structure	200mm poured concrete walls
	Foundations / Footings	200mm poured concrete foundation walls on 400 x 200mm dp strip footings

special areas of concern are:

• integration into landscaping

• handrail and guardrail support

• closing of the space underneath the ramp if poured retaining walls not present

4.  Type 3: Pre-cast Concrete Units:  

essentially designed to resemble a unitized retaining wall with sloping walkway made from interlocking pavers.

	ELEMENT	DESCRIPTION
	Running Surface	interlocking precast concrete pavers (ie Unilock or equal)
	Handrail / Guardrail	38mm Dia. steel pipe
	Structure	segmented precast concrete unit retaining wall (ie Stackstone, Pisa II or equal)
	Foundations / Footings	granular base and backfill per manufacturer's directions

special areas of concern are:

• unsupported wall height maximums

• special footing conditions

• running surface construction for interlocking pre-cast pavers

• handrail and guardrail support

Further References:

 Risi Stone of Thornhill Ontario web site (www.risistone.com) 

Unilock (www.unilock.com)

  5.  Type 4: Hybrid System:  

Combination of poured concrete and steel construction essentially designed to resemble a poured concrete floor on steel decking

Below:  University of Toronto at Mississauga South Building Entrance ramp	ELEMENT	DESCRIPTION
	Running Surface	75mm (3") concrete slab on steel decking (depth depends on span)
	Handrail / Guardrail	38mm Dia. steel pipe
	Structure	HSS posts on concrete piers with steel channel stringers

6.  Guard and Handrail Assemblies

To compare the properties and advantages and disadvantages of each of the four assembly types visit the  comparison chart

Go to Assignment 1 from the Course Contents page

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