CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49 - ADA Compliance at Entryways Explained

CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49 gives architects, contractors, and facility owners a recognized way to address ADA compliance at doorways and entry points. This guide explains what it is, why it matters, and how it has worked on real projects. 

 

What Is CSI MasterFormat? 

CSI MasterFormat is the standard system for organizing construction specifications for commercial and institutional projects in the U.S. and Canada. Published by the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) and Construction Specifications Canada (CSC), it is often called the “Dewey Decimal System” of construction. 

In November 2004, MasterFormat expanded from 16 Divisions to 50. The 2018 edition added Section 10 74 49. CSI continues to publish revised editions, so confirm section numbers against the edition your project uses. 

 

What Is 10 74 49? 

10 74 49, “Modular Landing and Ramp Systems,” is a Division 10 (Specialties) section added to CSI MasterFormat in 2018. It recognizes landing and ramp solutions as a convenient, cost-effective, and recognized option for helping meet ADA accessibility requirements that architects and contractors can include in project specifications. 

Here’s what the section number means: 

  • 10 (Level 1 Division): Specialties This division covers architectural elements that are typically prefabricated, specialty items, or not easily categorized under other construction divisions. 
  • 74 (Level 2  Section): Manufactured Exterior Specialties  This section groups manufactured specialty products used in exterior applications. 
  • 49 (Level 3 Subsection): Modular Landing and Ramp Systems This subsection covers modular landing and ramp systems used to help create accessible building entryways and transitions. 

SafePath Products® manufactures ADA-compliant threshold ramps, reducer ramps, and landing solutions designed to help architects and contractors create accessible entryway transitions for commercial, institutional, and public facilities. 

 

Why Is 10 74 49 Important for ADA Compliance? 

It gives project teams flexibility at entryways and access points, the “Getting Through the Door” part of accessibility. 

  • Existing buildings: The ADA requires removing structural barriers where removal is “readily achievable,” meaning easily accomplishable without much difficulty or expense. Retrofit products such as landings and threshold ramps are most often considered the optimal solution. 
  • New construction: Mistakes of even a fraction of an inch can break compliance. Retrofit products correct these conditions so new facilities meet accessibility requirements. 
  • Future changes: As the ADA evolves, the flexibility of these solutions gives specifiers confidence and often improves project efficiency. 

 

Under the 2010 ADA Standards (Section 303), a change in level over ½ inch at a doorway must be ramped. 

 

3 Real Project Examples

1. Existing Commercial Facility

Shane Berg of Berg Construction Services used SafePath Products® recycled rubber landings and threshold ramps during renovation and satisfied every inspector requirement. The existing vinyl floor contained asbestos. The alternatives were a prohibitively expensive aluminum ramp or concrete that would chip over time. “The inspector came by today, looked at the ramps and he loves them!” said Shane Berg. 

 

2. Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter

Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter, Florida chose SafePath Products® landings and ramps to maximize its budget. It valued SafePath Products® donation at $1,823 and applied it to ADA-compliant construction, rehabilitation, and home preservation. 

 

3. Mary Helen Rogers Senior Community Center

In 2017, SafePath Products® worked with HKIT Architects and Cahill Construction to solve a threshold height problem at this San Francisco facility. The custom entry-level landing: 

  • Was made from 100% recycled tire rubber with the look of grey granite 
  • Exceeded federal and state regulatory requirements 
  • Included field-verified drainage channels at every weep hole 
  • Provided slip resistance, with one of the highest static coefficient of friction (SCOF) ratings in the industry 
  • Reduced sound and diverted 4,785 pounds of tire rubber from landfill 

 

 

Key Takeaways

  • 10 74 49 was added to MasterFormat Division 10 (Specialties) in 2018. 
  • It designates “Modular Landing and Ramp Systems” as a recognized ADA compliance solution. 
  • Landing and ramp solutions are cost-effective, legal, and convenient for new and existing facilities. 
  • Thousands of architects, designers, and contractors include them in master specs. 

 

Need ADA-Compliant Entryway Solutions?

SafePath Products® manufactures ADA-compliant threshold ramps, reducer ramps, and modular landing systems made from recycled rubber for commercial accessibility projects. Whether you’re designing a new facility or upgrading an existing entrance, our team can help you select the right solution for your project. Request a Bulk Quote today. 

 

FAQs

What is CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49?

CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49 is the Division 10 specification section for Modular Landing and Ramp Systems used to support accessible entryway solutions. Added in 2018, it provides architects and contractors with a standardized way to specify landing and ramp systems for commercial and institutional projects. 

 

When is a threshold ramp required?

A threshold ramp is generally required when a doorway change in level exceeds ½ inch under the 2010 ADA Standards. Installing a compliant ramp helps create an accessible transition for wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges. 

 

Can these solutions be used in new construction? 

Yes. Landing and ramp solutions can be used in both new construction and renovation projects. They help correct doorway elevation differences and support ADA-compliant entryways when field conditions vary from the original design. 

 

What are SafePath Products® made from? 

SafePath Products® threshold ramps, reducer ramps, and landings are manufactured from 100% recycled rubber. They are designed to provide durable, slip-resistant, and low-maintenance accessibility solutions for commercial applications. 

 

Who uses CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49? 

Architects, engineers, contractors, specification writers, and facility managers commonly use CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49. The section helps organize construction specifications and simplifies the selection of ADA-compliant entryway solutions. 

 

Does CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49 apply to renovation projects? 

Yes. CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49 is commonly referenced for renovation and retrofit projects. It helps project teams specify landing and ramp solutions that improve accessibility in existing buildings. 

 

Why is CSI MasterFormat important for construction specifications? 

CSI MasterFormat provides a standardized system for organizing construction specifications. It helps architects, contractors, and suppliers communicate project requirements consistently and makes specification documents easier to navigate. 

 

How does CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49 support ADA compliance? 

CSI MasterFormat 10 74 49 provides a dedicated specification section for landing and ramp systems that improve accessible entryway transitions. It helps designers and contractors incorporate accessibility solutions into both new construction and renovation projects. 

 

What should architects consider when specifying ADA entryway solutions? 

Architects should evaluate doorway height differences, ADA slope requirements, slip resistance, drainage, durability, and installation conditions. Selecting the appropriate accessibility solution helps create safe and compliant transitions for building occupants. 

 

Which SafePath Products® are commonly used for accessible entryways?  

SafePath Products® offers EZEdge™ Threshold Ramps, CourtEdge™ Reducer Ramps, BigHorn™ Threshold Ramps, and EntryLevel™ Landings for commercial accessibility projects. These products help address doorway height differences and support accessible transitions in commercial, institutional, and public facilities.