The handbook sets forth design requirements for construction and renovation of buildings owned, leased, or funded by the Veterans Administration (VA), to permit physically handicapped persons ready access. The book is intended mainly for use by the VA staff and contracted architect/engineer firms involved in developing criteria and designing, constructing, and renovating VA buildings and facilities. Specifications are presented for the following accessible spaces and elements: passenger loading areas, walks, parking areas, curb ramps, ramps, entrances, doors and doorways, floors, corridor handrails, stairs, elevators, platform lists, toilet rooms, water fountains, public telephones, controls, alarm systems, hazards, carpets, cafeteria and retail store facilities, patient bedrooms, and special consideration areas. A checklist for barrier free design concludes the handbook. (CL)