ICC A117.1-2017 and Commentary

This easy-to-use format includes the full text of ICC A117.1-2017: Standard for Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, including tables and figures, followed by the corresponding commentary for each section. The commentary and accompanying figures explain the background and intent of the requirements and suggest the most effective method of application. Potential consequences of not following the provisions of the standard are also discussed.

The ICC A117.1-2017 standard provides the technical requirements to make sites, facilities, buildings and elements accessible to and usable by people with physical disabilities. The intent of the standard is to allow a person with a physical disability to independently get to, enter, and use a site, facility, building, or element. The commentary explains how the provisions of the standard make the elements accessible and is a must-have reference for facility professionals, building owners, architects, designers, and code officials who want to stay current on the requirements of A117.1.

Besides addressing each section of the standard, the 2009 edition of the commentary addresses many items revised or added since the 2009 edition, including:

• For new buildings and additions, enhanced dimensions for the clear floor space, turning space and the accessible route. This will affect the space provided at elements and will increase the maneuverability within such spaces for users of powered wheelchairs and scooters.
• Provisions incorporating many of the latest criteria for public rights of way provisions for curb cuts, blended transitions, detectable warnings, diagonal parking and street parking (PROWAG).
• Provision to improve safety for an accessible route traversing a parking lot.
• Provisions to facilitate charging of powered wheelchairs where they will be parked for duration, such as in accessible hotel rooms and at some wheelchair seating in assembly spaces.
• Provisions addressing accessibility at electric vehicle charging stations.
• Provisions for water bottle filling stations.
• Provisions that address spaces for sign language interpreter stations and sign language video booths.
• A new section addressing classroom acoustics that aims to improve acoustics in the rooms and to reduce the intrusion of noises from outside the classroom, thereby enhancing the learning environment.

This publication provides an excellent resource for anyone who wants a better understanding of ICC A117.1-2017 and how its provisions make buildings and facilities accessible and usable.