Power Planning: Electrical Considerations for New Home Construction
By Hampton, Jane; Access Press,Publication Date: November 10, 2007
Column offers advice regarding the installation of electrical outlets and switches in a new home where one family member uses a wheelchair. Recommendations include identifying the range of highest and lowest reach for the wheelchair user to define the boundaries within which switches and outlets should be placed. Specific advice is given regarding the following: (1) the height on the wall at which switches and outlets should be installed to be reachable from a wheelchair; (2) the installation of specific switches for kitchen and bathroom appliances; (3) the placement of task lighting in specific areas such as under wall cabinets, in closets, and in stairways; (4) ensuring the main electrical panel and all environmental controls such as the thermostat are reachable from a wheelchair; (5) if the family member uses an electric wheelchair, placing a dedicated outlet in the area where the chair is parked; (6) reviewing needs for power door openers, elevator, lifting, equipment, automated windows or window shades; and (7) if the installation of a ceiling track or lifting device for transfers within bedroom or bath is considered, ensuring that no ceiling mounted fixtures are positioned where the track would be installed.
Published by: Access Press (Website:http://www.accesspress.org/)
Link to text: http://www.accesspress.org/2007/11/power-planning-electrical-considerations-for-new-home-construction/
