855773520-LEED-v5-ID-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition-1 - Page 348
Extracted Content
| Accessibility for physical diversity | Examples, specifications, and explanation |
|---|---|
A minimum clearance of 36 inches (0.915 meters) is the appropriate threshold for accessible routes between exercise equipment, as this aligns with_ADA_requirements for accessible paths and allows adequate space for wheelchair users to navigate between equipment. | |
| Alternate accessible route that starts and terminates at the same location for nonaccessible routes. | Directness and proximity of the accessible route are essential to maintain a similar level of convenience to the nonaccessible route. The alternative accessible route must be in the same general area as the circulation paths. As per_International Code Council (ICC),_ the maximum allowable difference between the start and end points of an accessible route and its nonaccessible counterpart is 200 feet (61 meters) in most indoor facilities, though it’s recommended to minimize this distance for those with mobility challenges—ideally to 100 feet (30 meters).145 |
Table 2. Accessibility for safety and aging
| Accessibility for safety and aging | Examples and explanations |
|---|---|
Nonslip flooring | Acceptable nonslip flooring includes, but is not limited to, textured tiles, rubber flooring, and epoxy-coated flooring providing slip resistance. |
| Fix area rugs to floor below and provide transition strips over high traffic areas. | Solutions include nonslip backing, double-side carpet tape, and rug gripper to keep the rug in place. Transition strips to smooth the connection between two different types of flooring materials are required in high traffic areas. |
| Provide visual indication or railings at all full height glazing, except in private residences. | Providing visual indicators, such as markers or patterns, will make it more noticeable for all users, including those with vision impairments. Adding railings at full-height glass also helps provide a physical barrier for people to easily detect and use for support, though not required. |
| Provide audible and visual alerts for emergency alerts. | Providing emergency alerts ensures that all users, including those with hearing or visual impairments, can respond to emergencies. This includes, but is not limited to, loud unique alarm sounds, voice announcements, flashing strobe lights, or LED beacons. |
| Provide closed risers (visually and physically) on all stairs. | Closed risers eliminate gaps; reduce the risk of tripping or falling, particularly for small children or pets; and make stairs more secure. In addition, closed risers also offer privacy and reassurance through a more solid visual structure. |
| Use visual contrast between walls and floors, walls and doors, and walls and casework. | Incorporating distinct visual contrast between different architectural elements improves navigation and wayfinding, particularly for individuals with visual impairments. Projects must use contrasting colors, textures, and/or material for walls, floors, doors, casework (i.e., drawers and cabinet doors), or other permanently installed features. |
| Provide visual, tactile, contrasting, or photoluminescent warnings at floor level changes. | Incorporate bold color contrasts or reflective strips to mark transitions, use textured materials such as ribbed or grooved strips to provide tactile cues, and apply varied |
145 International Code Council, (2017), 2017 ICC A117.1, Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, https://www.codes.iccsafe.org/content/icca117-12017P4/chapter-4-accessible-routes.
U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Interior Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 337