Microwave

• Controls
• Knee Space
• Reach Ranges
• Clear Space

Controls

The choice of controls depends upon the disability that is being accommodated.

It is important to note that many companies offer optional Braille controls for those who are visually impaired.

Dial controls

Advantages:
• More accessible for the visually impaired (vs. electric touch controls)

Disadvantages:
• Require grasping and twisting motions
• Difficult for persons with limited motor capabilites to operate

Electric touch controls

Advantages:
• Single touch operation
• Requires little force for operation
• Requires no gripping or twisting
• Does not require fine finger dexterity
• Some manufacturers offer plastic overlay panels with raised tactile openings or labeling to aid the visually impaired

Disadvantages:
• Not accessible to those with visual impairments

Redundant cueing/feedback to the user

Controls should provide redundant cueing or feedback to the user in order to be accessible to persons with visual and hearing impairments.

Examples of redundant cueing/feedback:
• Click stops - provide distinct audible sound and tactile cue
• High contrast labeling
• Raised markers

Knee Space

Knee space needs to be available to wheelchair users to allow them access to the microwave. Make sure the microwave is placed on a counter top that provides the adequate knee space.

Minimum requirements:

• Height: 27 inches
• Depth: 19 inches
• Width: 30 inches

Recommended dimensions:

• Height: 29 inches or greater to allow for wheelchair armrests
• Width: 36 inches

Reach Ranges

Make sure the microwave is situated so that its location complies with reach range requirements.

Reach range for persons seated in wheelchair:

• Down: 12 - 15 inches above the floor
• Out (over the counter): 3 feet, 8 inches above the floor (maximum)
• Up: 4 feet above the floor (maximum)

Side reach for persons seated in a wheelchair:

• Lateral: 12 inches (maximum)
• Down: 9 inches above the floor (minimum)
• Up: 4 feet, 6 inches above the floor(maximum)

Reach for standing person, mobility impaired:

• Up: 6 feet above the floor
• Down: 2 feet above the floor

Clear Space

A minimum of 10 inches of clear space must be available immediately adjacent to the microwave to allow for transfer of foods in and out of the microwave.

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