Code of Massachusetts Regulations
521 CMR - Architectural Access Board
Title 521 CMR 28 - ELEVATORS
Section 28.12 - WHEELCHAIR LIFTS/ LIMITED USE ELEVATORS

Universal Citation: 521 CMR 28 MA Code of Regs 28.12

Current through Register 1531, September 27, 2024

Platform lift devices, shall comply with the following:

28.12.1 General: Vertical wheelchair lift devices and Limited use elevators may be used as a part of an accessible route of travel in lieu of an elevator under any of the following circumstances.

a. To provide an accessible route to a performing area (stage) in an assembly occupancy.

b. To comply with the wheelchair viewing position line-of-sight and dispersion requirements of 521 CMR 14.4.1.

c. In existing buildings where no other work is being performed, except for the installation of a vertical wheelchair lift.

d. In existing buildings of less than three stories in height or that have less than 3000 square feet per story unless the building is a shopping center, a shopping mall, or the professional office of a health care provider.

e. To provide vertical access where the distance between floors is less than a full story and where a ramp is not feasible.

28.12.2 Vertical wheelchair lifts shall comply with the following:

a. 521 CMR 24.4, Landings, 521 CMR 29.00: FLOOR SURFACES, and 521 CMR 39:00 CONTROLS;

b. Platform size shall be a minimum of 36 inches wide by 54 inches deep (36" by 54" = 914mm by 1372mm)

c. The wheelchair lift shall be recessed into the floor, at all levels, so that it is flush with the finished floor or grade. Where recessing the lift is not possible and a ramp must be used, the ramp shall comply with 521 CMR 24.00: RAMPS.

d. If the wheelchair lift is key operated, a buzzer and intercom system must be installed at the lift and connected to a location within the building where the key is maintained.

e. Doors or gates shall comply with the requirements of 521 CMR 26.5 through 521 CMR 26.11.4. Exception: Where a door or gate is provided in the wider side of any lift platform that is less that 54 inches (54" = 1372mm) in any dimension, the door or gate shall be a minimum of 42 inches (42" = 1067mm) wide and shall comply with the applicable requirements of 521 CMR 26.6 through 521 CMR 26.11.4.

f. Wheelchair lifts must be permanently installed and maintained in operating condition at all times.

28.12.3 Limited use elevators shall comply with the following:

a. The cab size shall be a minimum of 36 inches wide by 60 inches deep (36" by 60" = 914mm by 1524mm) with the door opening on the 36 inch (36" = 914mm) side.

b. The interior elevator door or gate shall be automatic.

c. The exterior doors shall comply with 521 CMR 26.00: DOORS AND DOORWAYS.

d. The elevator meet all other requirements of 521 CMR 28.2 through 28.6 and 521 CMR 28.8 through 28.11.

28.12.4 Inclined wheelchair lifts may be used as a part of an accessible route of travel in lieu of an elevator only under the following circumstances.

a. To provide an accessible route to a performing area (stage) in an assembly occupancy.

b. In an existing building where no other work is being performed and no other alternative is available such as a vertical wheelchair lift, limited use elevator or a ramp.

28.12.5 Inclined wheelchair lifts shall comply with the following:

a. The platform shall be a minimum of 30 inches wide by 48 inches long (30" by 48" = 762mm by 1219mm).

b. A permanent folding seat shall be provided on the lift.

c. If the wheelchair lift is key operated, a buzzer and intercom system must be installed at the lift and connected to a location within the building where the key is maintained.

d. All controls and operating mechanisms shall comply with 521 CMR 39.00: CONTROLS.

e. Inclined wheelchair lifts must be permanently installed and maintained in operating condition at all times.

f. Clear floor space must be provided at all entry and exit locations to the inclined wheelchair lift in accordance with the clear floor space requirement as cited in 521 CMR 26.6.3 and 26.6.4.

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