However, the ADA thought of this as well. In a book put out by the United States Access Board (ABA), a Federal agency devoted to accessibility for people with disabilities, there is an exception for barriers and fences protecting pools, spas and hot tubs. In Chapter 4: Accessible Routes section 404.2.7 Door and Gate Hardware under exception number 2 it reads, "Access gates in barrier walls and fences protecting pools, spas, and hot tubs shall be permitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on self-latching devices at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground provided the self-latching devices are not also self-locking devices and operated by means of a key, electronic opener, or integral combination lock." ( http://www.access-board.gov/ada-aba/final.pdf )I can not end this blog entry without mentioning the advisory that was at the bottom of 404.2.7 . It states that it is best to use door hardware that can be operated with a closed fist or a loose grip because more people with disabilities can more easily use them. Any hardware that requires simultaneous hand and finger movements require greater dexterity and are not recommended. I agree and we need to keep working toward this goal. Currently the best latch to keep your pool gate safe is the Magna Latch .More Links:
However, the ADA thought of this as well. In a book put out by the United States Access Board (ABA), a Federal agency devoted to accessibility for people with disabilities, there is an exception for barriers and fences protecting pools, spas and hot tubs. In Chapter 4: Accessible Routes section 404.2.7 Door and Gate Hardware under exception number 2 it reads, "Access gates in barrier walls and fences protecting pools, spas, and hot tubs shall be permitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on self-latching devices at 54 inches (1370 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground provided the self-latching devices are not also self-locking devices and operated by means of a key, electronic opener, or integral combination lock." ( http://www.access-board.gov/ada-aba/final.pdf )I can not end this blog entry without mentioning the advisory that was at the bottom of 404.2.7 . It states that it is best to use door hardware that can be operated with a closed fist or a loose grip because more people with disabilities can more easily use them. Any hardware that requires simultaneous hand and finger movements require greater dexterity and are not recommended. I agree and we need to keep working toward this goal. Currently the best latch to keep your pool gate safe is the Magna Latch .More Links:
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