1	Mechanical Systems CFS 347, Design for Special Needs Friday, April 26, 2002
2	Categories of Systems Electrical/illumination Thermal Ventilation Safety and security
3	Electrical/Illumination Electrical systems that fit the needs of the elderly & disabled will fit everyone. Switch box Should be accessible Should have a magnetic flashlight Curcuit breakers, not fuses Maximum ht. of 45”
4	Electrical/Illumination Light switches Pressure type or rocker type Self illuminated at bedroom, bathroom & entry doors 36” high to center (uniform ht. throughout) Placed at every entry to a room Three-way for room with 2 entries
5	Electrical/Illumination Convenience outlets Uniform center ht. of 27” except: Kitchen outlets on apron below counters Outlets on wall mounted light fixtures A special outlet at dining table 36” high Ground fault curcuit interrupters Required for kitchens & bathrooms Recommended: a low voltage network that allows control from 1 or 2 locations
6	Electrical/Illumination-General AT least 1 switched outlet in every room Dimmer swtches in dining & living rooms No point on a wall should be more than 8’ from an outlet. Ceiling fixtures should be pull down type Closets should be illuminated - switches Outlet conveniently located for wheelchair recharging
7	Thermal Systems Thermostat in accessible location, 42” from floor Braille, large numbers & good color contrast Warmer for elderly Air conditioning needed in some locations Window or central (preferred)
8	Ventilation - Windows Opposing windows provide the best ventilation Windows should open & close easily-casement & sliding Tempered glass & double paned Sills no higher than 32”-28” for bedridden Open to scenes of interest
9	Windows & Treatments Not too high for cleaning One could be emergency exit Roller shades should have pull cords Drapery & venetian blind controls Not in corner Not over counters Accessible & within 36” of floor Easily maintained
10	Safety & Security Systems Smoke detectors Ion chamber - fastest with flames Photoelectric - Smoldering fires Combination Alarms for deaf Flashing or constant light Vibrator under pillow
11	Other Safety Considerations Open fireplaces can be hazardous Two accessible exits are needed Consider a ceiling of noncombustible ceiling tile Thin wood panelling has high flame spread. Vinyl wall coverings have a low flame spread.
12	Other Safety Considerations Slip resistent flooring materials - no area rugs Grab bars where needed Stable fixtures and furniture Good, glare-free lighting Low thresholds Installation of passive security systems
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