Q: We have 4 ADA units on this project. We will need to supply ADA compliant locks for those units. 8 ADA passage levers and 8 ADA privacy levers. Do you have something that will match in ADA? If so can you send me a quote on said hardware? Thank you for all your help,
A: The issue with tubular levers like these is likely not so much the shape of the lever that would disqualify the unit for an ADA complaint application, but the amount of rotation required to retract the latchbolt.
I spoke with the manufacturer and they were unable to give me a definitive Yes or No answer as to whether or not these lever are ADA complaint.
I dug deeper. I have reviewed two publications published by the federal government and both have similar language that states:
A lever handle is accessible
because it can be operated without
tight grasping, pinching or twisting.
See page 8 here:
Download File
And see page 125 here:
Download File
And nowhere is it stated that the amount of rotation would be a cause to disqualify. I believe this was indeed the case several years ago.
My answer would be to do one of two things.
a. Submit to cut sheet of the lever to the AHJ (Authority Having Hurisdiction) as ask for approval prior to ordering the hardware
Or
b. simply order locksets that are specifically listed as ADA complaint. These would cost several times more per unit and have the typical commercial lever shape with the return back to the face of the door.
Is there a follow up question that we can perhaps attempt to answer? We take pride in our technical expertise, as we know it separates us from our competition, so don't hesitate to ask.
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if we can assist you by answering further questions or with entering this order and please let us know if there is anything else we can help with.