Section 19.9 - MARINE RAMPS shall comply with the following:
19.9.1 Handrails: Marine ramps shall be equipped with handrails which comply with 521 CMR 24.5Handrails. Exception: At the top and bottom of the marine ramp the upper and lower rails shall be connected with a circular return extending a minimum of 12 inches (12" = 305mm) beyond the edge of the ramp. It is not intended that handrail extensions be horizontal during all tidal or weather conditions.
19.9.2 Width: The clear width of the marine ramp shall be a minimum of 36 inches (36" = 914mm) measured between the handrails.19.9.3 Platforms: Marine ramps shall terminate in level platforms that are a minimum of 48 inches (48"= 1219mm) by 48 inches (48" = 1219mm), clear and unobstructed by handrails, door swings, entrances, or other projections. Such platforms shall occur at the top and bottom of each ramp and at intervals not exceeding the maximum ramp length as described in Table 1: Table 1
RAMPS | MAXIMUM RAMP LENGTH |
(excluding transition plates) |
1:12 but less than 1:14 | Not to exceed 30 feet (9m) |
1:14 but less than 1:16 | Not to exceed 35 feet (11m) |
1:16 but less than 1:18 | Not to exceed 40 feet (12m) |
1:18 but less than 1:20 | Not to exceed 45 feet (14m) |
1:20 and over | Unlimited length |
19.9.4Transition Plates shall be a maximum of eight feet (8' = 2438mm) in length and shall have slopes less than or equal to 1:12. Transition plates longer than 18 inches (18" = 457mm) shall be equipped with handrails complying with 521 CMR 19.9.1. These handrails must be parallel to the handrails on the marine ramp(s), but may not necessarily be continuous with them. Transition plates shall be at least as wide as the ramp. The change in level between the end of the transition plate and the adjoining level surface shall be no greater than 1/2 an inch (1/2" = 13mm).