CIDQ Updated IDPX Exam Questions and Answers by autumn-rose

The NCIDQ IDPX exam tests the designer’s knowledge of universal accessibility standards, specifically the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, which are referenced for designing accessible retail spaces. The minimum aisle width ensures that individuals using wheelchairs can navigate through the space.

ADA Requirements:According to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, Section 403.5.1, the minimum clear width for an accessible route (such as an aisle in a retail area) is 36 inches (914 mm). This width allows a wheelchair user to maneuver comfortably. In some cases, the width can be reduced to 32 inches for short distances (e.g., through doorways), but for continuous aisles in retail areas, 36 inches is the standard minimum.

Option A (32" [813 mm]):While 32 inches is the minimum clear width for short segments of an accessible route (e.g., at a doorway), it is not sufficient for a continuous aisle in a retail area, where 36 inches is required to ensure accessibility.

Option B (36" [914 mm]):This matches the ADA requirement for the minimum clear width of an accessible route in a retail area, making it the correct choice.

Option C (42" [1067 mm]):A 42-inch width exceeds the minimum requirement and may be recommended for greater accessibility, but it is not the minimum per ADA standards.

Option D (48" [1219 mm]):A 48-inch width is required for two wheelchairs to pass each other (per ADA Section 403.5.3), but it is not the minimum for a single accessible route in a retail aisle.

Verified Answer from Official Source:

The correct answer is verified from the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, as referenced in NCIDQ IDPX study materials.

“The clear width of walking surfaces in accessible routes shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum.” (2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, Section 403.5.1)

The 2010 ADA Standards specify that the minimum clear width for an accessible route, such as a retail aisle, is 36 inches to accommodate wheelchair users. Option B matches this requirement, making it the correct answer for the minimum aisle width in a retail area.

Objectives:

Understand accessibility requirements for retail spaces (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Codes and Standards).

Apply ADA guidelines to ensure inclusive design (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Building Regulations).

The installer (e.g., millwork contractor) is responsible for field verifying existing conditions to produce shop drawings for new countertops, per CSI and AIA standards. They measure the existing millwork on-site to ensure the custom countertops fit precisely, as they execute the work. The owner (A) funds but doesn’t verify. The designer (C) provides design intent but typically doesn’t field measure for shop drawings. The installer (B) bridges design and fabrication with accurate site data.

Verified Answer from Official Source:B - installer

"The installer is responsible for field verifying existing conditions to create shop drawings for custom elements like countertops." (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Section 3: Contract Administration)

Explanation from Official Source:The NCIDQ assigns this task to the installer, ensuring shop drawings reflect as-built conditions for seamless integration.

Objectives:

Coordinate fabrication responsibilities (IDPX Objective 3.13).

Per IBC Section 303, a restaurant is classified as Assembly Group A-2, designated for spaces where people gather to eat and drink, with an occupant load typically over 50. Public P-3 (A) isn’t an IBC classification. Business Group B (B) applies to offices, not dining. Residential Group R (C) is for living spaces, not commercial dining. A-2 (D) fits restaurants due to their assembly use and safety requirements (e.g., egress, fire protection).

Verified Answer from Official Source:D - assembly: group A-2

"Restaurants are classified as Group A-2 (Assembly) under IBC for areas intended for food and drink consumption." (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Section 1: Codes and Standards)

Explanation from Official Source:The NCIDQ references IBC, ensuring designers apply A-2 for restaurants to meet life safety and occupancy standards.

Objectives:

Determine occupancy classifications (IDPX Objective 1.2).

The NCIDQ IDPX exam focuses on the design process, including the role of various documents and activities in guiding a project. A unifying element in design provides a cohesive vision and direction for the project team.

Option A (Feasibility studies):Feasibility studies assess the viability of a project, including budget, site constraints, and regulatory requirements. While important, they do not provide a unifying design direction; they are more about determining if the project can proceed.

Option B (Concept statement):A concept statement is a written narrative that articulates the overarching design vision, aesthetic, and functional goals of the project. It serves as a guiding principle that unifies all design decisions, ensuring consistency across the project. This makes it the best choice for providing specific direction and unifying the design.

Option C (Space allocation studies):Space allocation studies involve determining the spatial needs of the project (e.g., square footage for each function). While they help with planning, they are more technical and do not provide a unifying vision or direction for the design’s aesthetic or experiential goals.

Option D (Programming and research):Programming and research involve gathering data on the client’s needs, goals, and functional requirements. While this is a critical step, it is more about collecting information than providing a unifying design direction.

Verified Answer from Official Source:

The correct answer is verified from NCIDQ’s official study materials on the design process.

“The concept statement defines the design vision and provides a cohesive direction for the project, ensuring that all design decisions align with the overall intent.” (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Design Process Section)

The NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide highlights the concept statement as a key tool for unifying a project. It acts as a touchstone for the design team, ensuring that all elements—from materials to spatial organization—align with the intended vision, making Option B the best choice.

Objectives:

Understand the role of the concept statement in the design process (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Design Process).

Apply design principles to create a cohesive project vision (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Design Development).