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One Service Window Size Fits All
For years, VA standards have called for two security windows for each
space serviced by one person; one standard window, mounted at 42" above
the finished floor for walk-up customers, and one window, mounted at 30"
above the finished floor for wheelchair customers. These products come
complete with bullet-resistant glazing material, frames, counters with
deal trays and other specified features.
During a tour of several Ambulatory care facilities, it was noticed that
usually only one of the two security windows was utilized. This was
inconvenient for whoever's counter was closed, because 30" is too low
of a counter height for a standing person and 42" is too high for a person
in a wheelchair.
In the design of the new Mayaguez, PR, Satellite Outpatient Clinic, a new
approach was tried. Instead of two windows for the Agent Cashier, MCCR
Clerk, and each Pharmacy Dispensing Station, we designed one window mounted
34" above the finished floor. This was done because UFAS and ADA
requirements for wheelchair writing surfaces allowed a range of 30" high to
34" high, and the former VA Barrier Free Design Manual, H-08-13, referred
back to the same UFAS/ADA requirement. The new FM manual, PG-08-13 does
not mention this at all. Ergonomic studies also showed that the 34" counter
height was usable by both wheelchair and standing customers.
Now that these windows have been installed in the new Mayaquez Clinic and
several other projects, curther tests have shown the 34" counter height to be
very usable.
Besides being more convenient for all patients, each security service
window that was eliminated saved approximately $4,500 for material and
approximately $750 for installation. The five windows saved on the
Mayaquez project equate to about $26,250. VA Standard Details have been
modified to reflect this change.
If your next project involves security windows or similar service counters,
consider this in your design.
For further information, contact the Consulting Support Service (183A),
Dan Colagrande @ (202) 565-5494.
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