How Does One Design Space for an Accessible Refrigerator / Freezer?

The answer is found in the ADAAG; Final Rule, written by the Access Board, published July 23, 2004, with an effective date of September 21, 2004. 

ADAAG Chapter 2: Scoping Requirements is silent on the refrigerator / freezer.  The answer is found in Section 804.6.6:

804 Kitchens and Kitchenettes.

804.6.6 Refrigerator/Freezer.

804.6.6 Refrigerator/Freezer.

“Combination refrigerators and freezers shall have at least 50 percent of the freezer space 54 inches maximum above the finish floor or ground.  The clear floor or ground space shall be positioned for a parallel approach to the space dedicated to a refrigerator/freezer with the centerline of the clear floor or ground space offset 24 inches maximum from the centerline of the dedicated space.”

1.
In the opinion of ACCESS, to meet the freezer space 54 inch maximum height requirement, a side-by-side unit is required.

2. The clear floor space from Section 305 is 30 by 48 inches minimum and requires a parallel approach.  This will require both doors to open 180º.

3. The actual clear floor space will be greater than 48 inches because the centerline of the dedicated space is required to be offset by 24 inches, so it must be offset for both the freezer and the refrigerator.

4. The manufacturer recommends a 2 inch clearance at the back of the unit, and a 1 inch clearance on both sides of the unit.

There is no way a clear floor space for a refrigerator / freezer placed in the corner will work!

A similar answer is found in ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003 Commentary in Section 804.6.6 and Figure C804.6.6:

Chapter 8 Special Rooms and Spaces.

804 Kitchens and Kitchenettes.

804.6 Appliances.

804.6.6 Refrigerator/Freezer.

“Combination refrigerators and freezers shall have at least 50 percent of the freezer compartment shelves, including the bottom of the freezer, 54 inches maximum above the floor when the shelves are installed at the maximum heights possible in the compartment.  A clear floor space, positioned for a parallel approach to the space dedicated to a refrigerator/freezer, shall be provided.  The centerline of the clear floor space shall be offset 24 inches maximum from the centerline of the dedicated space.”

The above are opinions of Hank Falstad, AIA, Managing Senior Associate of Access Technologies Services, Inc. (ACCESS).  See our web site for additional information:  www.accessts.net

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