Corridors, Doors & Windows
• At entrances, install automatic doors. Consider sliding doors equipped with an adjustable opening/closing delay system that is programmed to keep doors open for a longer duration than required by code. Patients and geriatric adults with mobility impairments require additional time to clear the doorway.
• Install doors equipped with lever-style handles that do not require twisting and can be opened with one hand. Doors require a maximum 8-pound pull force or 14-pound push force along with a closing mechanism to allow at least 4 to 6 seconds for patients and geriatric adults with mobility issues to clear the doorway before it closes.
• In all hallways, provide between 1470 mm and 1830 mm (4 ft 11 in – 6 ft 1 in) between handrails to allow two wheelchairs to pass.
• Make hallway corners at least 1200 mm (4 ft) wide so handicapped, incapacitated and geriatric adults can turn a wheelchair/walker comfortably.
• Avoid long hallways which discourage recovering and geriatric adults from moving around. Break up long hallways with recessed rest areas every 30,000 mm (100 ft). Windows installed in long hallways create a visual effect that shortens hallways to encourage recovering and geriatric adults to move around.
• Hospital in-patient rooms must install side-hinged windows which are easier to open than lift-up styles.
• In patient, exam and procedure rooms with windows, install patient controlled drapes, blinds or an energy efficient transparent sunscreen system to shade windows while letting in natural light. Controls should be easy to operate by people with limited dexterity and should be within reach from a wheelchair.
• Windows should have the ability to be opened if possible but there must be screens and a limit on how far the window opens for safety reasons.
• Opaque automatic doors have been suggested in common literature but often visibility is important for safety reasons in areas like emergency departments. In addition, orientation and site-specific conditions must be considered in the use of opaque automatic doors.
• Attempt to keep thresholds barrier free.
(Note: The importance of barrier-free access in all hospital and healthcare facility areas cannot be over emphasized. Ensure that all equipment and supplies are stored in convenient locations as the removal of clutter helps to support patient and older adult independence and promotes mobility.)
