Refrigerator - ADA/ANSI and UFAS Requirements

We tests products for ADA and UFAS compliance using these 5 requirements: Forward Reach, Forward Approach, Side Reach, Control Operation, Location of Controls. For more information, see ADA Appliance Requirements.

 

For refrigerators, ADA and UFAS have different standards. In addition, local codes may have additional or different standards, based on the location. GE Appliances cannot account for all local codes. See ADA Compliant Refrigerators for compliant models.

 

ADA or UFAS Requirements To Be Compliant - Top Freezer Refrigerators

  • 100% of the fresh food space below 54 inches
  • 50% of the freezer space below 54 inches
  • Controls must:
    • Be below 48" (ADA) or 54" (UFAS)
    • Be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist
    • Require force of less than 5 lbs. to activate

ADA or UFAS Requirements To Be Compliant - Side-by-Side Refrigerators

  • Controls must:
    • Allow parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair with maximum high side reach of 48" (ADA) or 54" (UFAS) for operation
    • Be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist
    • Require force of less than 5 lbs. to activate

Note: Side-by-Side refrigerators do not meet ADA requirements because of the height to the controls; however, they do meet UFAS requirements.

 

ADA or UFAS Requirements to be Compliant - Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators

  • Controls must:
    • Allow parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair with maximum high side reach of 48" (ADA) or 54" (UFAS) for operation
    • Be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist
    • Require force of less than 5 lbs. to activate

Note: Only Bottom Freezer/French Door refrigerators with an external dispenser meet ADA requirements. They do not meet all of UFAS requirements.

 

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