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One of the most common ramp violations is also one that can be quite tricky and costly to fix. Simple planning can prevent major issues with the ramp handrail extensions.

The 1994 Standards require that "if handrails are not continuous, they shall extend at least 12 in beyond top and bottom of the ramp segment and shall be parallel with the floor or ground surface".  What is not clearly mentioned here is that the 12" level handrail extensions must also extend in the direction of the ramp and must be AFTER the ramp segment. The 2010 Standards have clarified this: 505.10 "Handrail gripping surfaces shall extend beyond and in the same direction of stair flights and ramp runs in accordance with 505.10. Also, when planning the construction of the ramp - Always take into account where the ramp terminates near corridors and walkways. It is critical to ensure that the ramp segment begins/ends at least 12" BEFORE the perpendicular walkways and that the level 12" minimum extensions are provided at ramp landings - not sloped surface - see images
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