Hotels' top priority is making sure they are following all ADA rules in order to accommodate any guest needs. It can be a difficult to remember all of the codes. Below is a summary of what codes you must follow in order to make sure your property is following ADA guidelines when it comes to drapery/window treatments.
#1 Easy to operate controls that do not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. 4.27.4
This is the appropriate drapery baton you must have in order to be in compliance. Make sure it has the looped end for guest to grab onto.(48" maximum height)
Minimum Clear Floor From Window Treatments To Wheelchair
#2 "If the clear floor space only allows forward approach to an object(window treatment), the maximum high forward reach allowed shall be 48 in. The minimum low forward reach is 15 in..."
If the clear floor space allows parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair, the maximum high side reach allowed shall be 54 in and the low side reach shall be no less than 9 in above the floor.
“If the clear floor space only allows parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair, the maximum high side reach allowed shall be 54 in (1370 mm) and the low side reach shall be no less than 9 in (230 mm) above the floor (Fig. 6(a) and (b)). If the side reach is over an obstruction, the reach and clearances shall be as shown in Fig. 6(c)...."
4.2.5 and 4.2.6
In using batons that hang within 48” of the floor we follow both codes and no matter if forward reach or side reach is available in a certain guestroom at any time.
#3. If using motorized drapery or window treatments, controls must be able to be operable with one hand and should not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 lbf (22.2 N).
ADA Drapery Tips:
-For manual drapery always specify ADA looped batons that reach from mounting height to 48” off the floor.
-If available, specify motorized drapery tracks with a remote for ADA rooms only.
- If you have roller shades, specify motorized roller shades with a remote for ADA rooms, instead of chain pulled shades.
For official ADA guidelines visit this website.