North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the maximum slope of a ramp?

1. 1:10

2. 1:12

3. 1:14

4. 1:16

The correct answer is: 1:12

The maximum slope of a ramp is governed by accessibility guidelines, which aim to provide safe and usable access for individuals with disabilities. The value of 1:12 indicates that for every inch of vertical rise, there should be at least 12 inches of ramp run. This represents a slope of approximately 8.33%, which is considered manageable for most users, including those utilizing wheelchairs. This standard is widely adopted in building codes and is intended to ensure that ramps are not too steep, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and improving accessibility. For ramps that exceed this slope, additional measures or accommodations may be necessary, such as rest areas or landings to assist with the transition between various levels. While the other slope ratios might seem viable for different applications or contexts, they do not meet the established maximum slope conditions for ramps intended for accessibility in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and similar regulations. Therefore, 1:12 is the accepted maximum slope, ensuring functionality and safety for users.