Usability Standard (Voluntary Compliance Agreement)
Figure 1
Compare the dimensions of the elevator above against the following options allowed by the
Usability Standard (VCA). Does it comply?
Elevator Sizes Allowed by VCA
Door Width
Cab Depth
Cab Width
32" min.
45" min.
52.5" min.
33" min.
44" min.
52.5" min.
34" min.
43" min.
52.5" min.
35" min.
39.5" min.
52.5" min.
36" min.
39.25" min.
52.5" min.
37" min.
39.25" min.
52.5" min.
Section 4.10.9
Elevators that do not comply with one of the options above can
still be checked with the standard UFAS rules. Fig. 2 and 3 come from UFAS.
Note that the UFAS requirements are
significantly more stringent than the Usability Standard. The Usability Standard
accommodates the small size of elevator shafts in existing NYCHA buildings. The standard
UFAS elevator sizes allow turning a wheelchair around in the car. The Usability Standard
sizes will generally not provide enough space to turn a wheelchair around.
Figure 2 (UFAS Figure 22a)
The UFAS elevator plan dimensions would
allow elevators to be deeper than they are wide. However, they would have to be at least
68 in. wide. In general, elevators should be wider than they are deep because it
facilitates egress from the cars.
Figure 3 (UFAS Figure 22b)
Does the floor area of the car allow
maneuvering room for wheelchair users to enter the car, reach the controls, and exit?
Figures 2 and 3 provide the minimum
dimensions required to turn around in the elevator.
Other Issues
of compliance:
Section 4.5.1
Are the floors in and adjacent to the elevator
stable, firm, and slip-resistant?
Section 4.10.11
Is the illumination level at the car controls,
the platform, and the car threshold and landing sill at least 5 footcandles?
These rules are obvious and can be checked easily in the field. It
is unlikely that they would become an issue.
