- Author
-
Margulis, S. T.
- Title
- Building Accessibility in Relation to Door Hardware, Door Users, and Door Use.
- Coporate
- National Bureau of Standards, Gaithersburg, MD
- Report
-
NBSIR 80-2174,
January 1981,
54 p.
- Distribution
- AVAILABLE FROM National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Technology Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, Springfield, VA 22161. Telephone: 1-800-553-6847 or 703-605-6000; Fax: 703-605-6900; Rush Service (Telephone Orders Only) 800-553-6847; Website: http://www.ntis.gov
- Keywords
-
standards
|
handicapped
|
door closures
|
doors
- Abstract
- This report reviews the technical literature related to doors as architectural barriers. It examines the concept of disability and the associated concepts of impairment and handicap. It is concluded that these terms lack consensus of meaning. The concepts of functional capacity is recommended as an alternative because of the more direct linkage between capacity and performance. A review of the conceptual literature on functional capacity and its measurement leads to the conclusion that functional capacities relevant to building accessibility generally have been identified, but more precise specifications and improved ergonomic procedures for testing capacities of the disabled are required. Furthermore, a distinction is drawn between functional capacity and door use patterns. The latter refers to how capacities are applied during actual door use. Last, door systems are examined, particularly locking and latching mechanisms, door openers and door closers. The existing literature on these raises questions about the adequacy of current accessibility codes and standards with regard to these components. Based on unresolved problems and current needs, research addressing accessibility relevant objectives is recommended.