North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the minimum ramp landing length required?

1. 1 unit vertical and 8 units horizontal

2. 1 unit vertical and 10 units horizontal

3. 1 unit vertical and 12 units horizontal

4. 2 units vertical and 12 units horizontal

The correct answer is: 1 unit vertical and 12 units horizontal

The correct answer describes a ramp landing that requires a minimum of 1 unit vertical and 12 units horizontal. This specification is key in ensuring safe and accessible ramps, particularly for individuals with mobility impairments. The ratio of vertical to horizontal distance influences the slope of the ramp, which is vital for navigability. A gentler slope makes it easier for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids to ascend or descend the ramp without excessive strain. In this context, 1 unit of vertical rise to 12 units of horizontal run provides a slope ratio of 1:12, which is widely accepted in accessibility guidelines, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This standard allows for increased safety by reducing the risk of accidents or falls that can occur on steeper slopes. Other options suggest different ratios or dimensions that do not conform to the ADA's recommended guidelines. Each of those would create a steeper incline, which can pose challenges for accessibility and safety, making the final choice of 1 unit vertical to 12 units horizontal the most suitable for practical and regulatory reasons.