PREFACE

The principal purpose of this Commentary is to provide a basic volume of knowledge and facts relating to building construction as it pertains to the regulations set forth in ICC A117.1-2017 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities. The person who is serious about effectively designing, constructing and regulating buildings and structures for accessibility will find the Commentary to be a reliable data source and reference to almost all components of the built environment. 

This Commentary covers all chapters and sections of the standard. It provides in a small package and at a reasonable cost thorough coverage of many issues likely to be dealt with when using ICC A117.1-2017 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities—and then supplements that coverage with historical and technical background. 

Throughout all of this, effort has been made to keep the vast quantity of material clear and its method of presentation useful. With a comprehensive yet concise summary of each section, the Commentary provides a convenient reference for regulations applicable to the construction of buildings and structures for accessibility. In the chapters that follow, discussions focus on the full meaning and implications of the standard text. Discussions suggest the most effective method of application and the consequences of not adhering to the standard text. Illustrations are provided to aid understanding; they do not necessarily illustrate the only method of achieving compliance with the standard. 

The format of the Commentary includes the reproduction of each section, table and figure in the standard, followed immediately by the commentary applicable to that section, table or figure. At the time of printing, the Commentary reflects the most up-to-date version of ICC A117.1-2017 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities. Each section’s narrative includes a statement of its objective and intent, and usually includes a discussion about why the requirement commands the conditions set forth. Standard text and commentary text are easily distinguished from each other. All standard text is shown as it appears in the standard itself, and all commentary is indented below the standard text and begins with the symbol ♦. 

The Commentary is to be used in conjunction with ICC A117.1-2017 and not as a substitute for it. The Commentary is advisory only; the code official alone possesses the authority and responsibility for interpreting the standard. 

Comments and recommendations are encouraged, for through your input, we can improve future editions. Please direct your comments to the Codes and Standards Development Department at the Central Regional Office.