Q: Do you have any alternative to the pull knob such as a lever handle? A pull knob is not considered accessible to a disabled person by code.
A: I do not agree that the knob itself disqualifies the unit from ADA compliance.
I don't agree only because I believe that in spite of the knob ADA compliance is not violated such as “ tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist”
can you provide to me a specific reference to the code that states this knob is in violation? I would very much appreciate the opportunity to continue this research for you.
Q: You may be right about that. However, do you think one could pull open the door with the knob if they only had a stump? Wouldn’t it require tight grasping skills? This is sometimes the design test used (but not specifically stated in accessibility standards).
A: I certainly do not feel that not having any sort of appendage beyond the wrist or elbow is going to allow you to successfully operate the door.
My desire is out of professional curiosity and to work together to find an applicable solution.
We do sell specimen pass-through cabinets where the interlock mechanism is a straight lever handle which will permit it's operation even in the significantly handicapped scenario that you have suggested.
Furthermore I will contact this factory and ask if they have any sort of suggestion to surface mount a handle that will allow the type of operation that you have outlined and what immediately comes to mind is something that looks like this Hospital type pull as seen here:
Click Here
I will be in touch.
Q: The Answer below is a follow up to the above question:
A: When a client whose application for the specimen pass through cabinet is intended to be used for the seriously handicapped where the user will have nothing beyond the wrist with which to use the specimen cabinet and we know that the interlock mechanism is compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act standards and compliance however we can envision some sort of a surface mounted pull that would allow for the seriously handicapped user as described above to successfully open and close the door since the standard knob is not an otion?
The manufacturer Carr can provide the optional handle as seen here:
View Image
Please note the existing handle and door are designed to open with far less force than ADA requirements. Please see this video here:
Click Here
showing how the unit can be operated with one finger with no grasping or pulling at all.
Although to address the need for the seriously handicapped as outlined originally I did have something in mind like the traditional hospital pull that have been used for several decades and can be reviewed here:
Click Here
and while Carr cannot supply and install this type, we can order the unit without a pull for you to field drill and apply a pull of your choosing.