Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Florida Principle and Practice Licensure Practice Exam

A ramp is defined as a walking surface with a running slope steeper than a ratio of 1:20. This means that for every 20 units of horizontal distance, there is a change of 1 unit in vertical height. This standard is significant in terms of accessibility and safety, especially for persons with disabilities, as it delineates the maximum steepness for ramps that need to be navigable by individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. When the slope exceeds this ratio, it can become challenging or dangerous for users, which is why building codes often establish specific parameters like the 1:20 ratio to ensure public safety and compliance with accessibility guidelines. Understanding this ratio is essential for code administrators and inspectors as they evaluate ramps in various structures to ensure they meet accessibility standards.