×

Regulations for ADA Drawer Pulls

Kochava R. Greene

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets regulations for buildings and spaces, including classrooms, offices, hotels and shops used by the public so that they are accessible to the disabled. While requirements vary according to the business or space, thorough contractors adhere to ADA regulations for items such as drawer pulls no matter what they are building or its intended purpose.

Height reach

Drawer pulls must be within certain height and reach ranges to comply with ADA rules.

According to the ADA, the height reach for drawer pulls must be no higher than 48 inches and no lower than 15 inches.

Side reach

The ADA specifies that the maximum high side reach for drawer pulls is 54 inches. The low side reach can be no less than 9 inches above the floor.

Operations

The ADA requires that drawer pull be operable with one hand. They cannot require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist, and the force necessary to use them cannot be greater than 5 pounds. Easy-to-use handles or pulls, including lever handles, loop handle pulls and touch latches, are preferable.