Operable with limited strength and reach

Evaluation instructions Source
Hardware Input/controls When the obstruction projects 20 to 25 inches (510 mm to 635 mm), verify that the maximum high forward reach is 44 inches (1120 mm) (compliant with American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(f) Advisory Guidance]
When the obstruction is less than 20 inches (510 mm) deep, verify that the maximum high forward reach is 48 inches (1220 mm) (compliant with American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(f) Advisory Guidance]
Verify that the requirement for constant, uninterrupted actions is minimized by investigating the required actions for each control.  
Verify that the maximum level forward reach over an obstruction with knee space below is 25 inches (635 mm) (compliant with American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(f) Advisory Guidance]
Verify that the force required to operate mechanical controls is adjustable or minimized (maximum recommended force is 100g). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(d) Advisory Guidance]
Verify that short cuts have been created to minimize the number of actions needed to perform a given function. Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(e) Advisory Guidance]
Verify that optional speech input/control is provided. Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(e)(2)(i) Advisory Guidance]
Verify that optional remote controls are provided. Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(c) Advisory Guidance]
Verify that important labels or instructions are placed on the front or other easily accessible side of large or stationary devices.  
Verify, by attempting each operation with a single hand, that frequently performed control operations do not require long reaches by people using one hand. Microsoft, 1999
Verify that controls that are constantly used are located as close to the user as possible, where there is also wrist or arm support. Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(a), 1193.41(f)(2)(e) Advisory Guidance]
Verify that controls are within easy reach of those who are small or in a wheelchair or other personal mobility device, and a required change in body position is minimized:Accessible forward reach is between 15"and 48" from the floor. Accessible side reach is between 9" and 54" from the floor.  
Verify that controls and keys can be operated with one hand only, or either hand. Section 508, Workforce Investment Act [1194.23(k)(2)]
Verify that arm/wrist rests or supports are provided near controls. Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(e) Advisory Guidance]
Inspect each safety interlock and verify that non-strength-related safety interlocks are used or, for strength-related safety interlocks, that force requirements after activation decrease.  
If the side reach is over an obstruction with a depth of 24 inches (610 mm), verify that the maximum height of the obstruction is 34 inches (865 mm) and that the maximum high side reach over the obstruction is 46 inches (1170) (compliant with American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(f) Advisory Guidance]
If the clear floor space only allows forward approach to the product, verify that the maximum high forward reach (height) allowed is 48 in (1220 mm) (compliant with American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(f) Advisory Guidance]
If the clear floor space only allows forward approach to the product, verify that the minimum low forward reach is 15 in (380 mm) (compliant with American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(f) Advisory Guidance]
If the clear floor space allows parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair, verify that the maximum high side reach allowed is 54 in (1370 mm) and the low side reach is no less than 9 in (230 mm) above the floor (compliant with American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines). Section 255, Telecommunications Act [1193.41(f)(2)(f) Advisory Guidance]
Output/displays Verify that the manipulation of printouts by "reaching and grasping" aids is facilitated by product design.  
Verify that printed output is within easy reach of those who are small or in a wheelchair or other personal mobility device:Accessible forward reach is between 15"and 48" from the floor. Accessible side reach is between 9" and 54" from the floor.  
Verify that multiple displays or auditory output are provided when information cannot be within reach of those who are small or in a wheelchair or other personal mobility device.  
Manipulations Verify that the push/pull force required to insert and retrieve cards, connectors, or drawers is not greater than 5 lbf (22.2 N).  
Verify that objects can be inserted and removed with minimal user reach by inspecting the insertion and removal of each object.  
Verify that devices with covers or lids are hinged, have sliding covers, or are electronically operated.  
Verify that device doors with open handles, levers, or spring-loaded doors are used.  
Verify that device components are repositionable with a minimum amount of force.  
Verify that bearings for drawers or heavy objects that must be moved are provided.  
Verify that ample ejection distance of objects facilitates easy gripping and removalRecommended distance is 1inch but 2 inches is preferred.  
Inspect each receptacle and verify that object receptacles can be repositioned or re-angled to be more reachable.  


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