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

Operable parts must be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping. What is the maximum force in pounds required to activate them?

1. 2 pounds

2. 4 pounds

3. 5 pounds

4. 6 pounds

The correct answer is: 5 pounds

The requirement that operable parts must be usable with one hand and not necessitate tight grasping is established to ensure accessibility for all individuals, including those with disabilities. The maximum force required to activate these parts is set at 5 pounds, which aligns with standards aimed at making environments more inclusive. This standard is important in various contexts, such as door handles, faucets, or other hardware, where ease of use can significantly impact daily activities for individuals with limited strength or dexterity. By limiting the force needed to only 5 pounds, code compliance ensures that operable parts are manageable for the vast majority of people. Understanding this regulation helps in the design and installation of fixtures to comply with accessibility standards, which is a critical aspect of building inspections and code enforcement.