ACCESS REGULATIONS TO DWELLINGS

When specifying ramped or stepped access for dwellings, consider the following key factors:

Functionality and Safety: Ensure the design provides safe and practical access for all users, including those with mobility issues.
Compliance with Regulations: Adhere to relevant standards and guidelines to ensure that the access meets legal safety requirements.

For guidance, refer to the main approved documents:

Approved Document M, Volume 1: Dwellings: Offers practical advice on accessibility and the use of buildings.
Document K: Addresses safety measures to prevent falls, including handrail requirements.

RAMP GRADIENTS

The maximum (steepest) gradient for a domestic dwelling is 1:12.

To calculate the length of the ramp required, use the formula:

Threshold Height × Gradient = Ramp Length

For example, if the threshold height is 100mm:

100mm × 12 = 1200mm ramp.

Remember: The longer the ramp, the shallower the slope.

Reference: Crown, 2015, The Building Regulations, Approved Document M: access to and use of buildings, volume 1: dwellings, Page: 11

LEVEL LANDINGS (REST PLATFORMS)

Level landings (rest platforms) must be a minimum of 1200mm in length.

Reference: Crown, 2015, The Building Regulations, Approved Document M: access to and use of buildings, volume 1: dwellings, Page: 12

HANDRAILS

They must be slip-resistant and have a warm-to-the-touch finish.
They should be looped or closed to prevent clothing from catching on the end of the ramp.
An infill rail must be included if the ramp height exceeds 600mm.
Handrails must be between 900mm and 1000mm high.
The diameter of the rails must be between 32mm and 50mm.

Reference: Crown, 2013, The Building Regulations 2010, Approved Document K: protection from falling, collision and impact, Page: 8

STEPS

Steps must have:

A riser height between 150mm and 170mm.
A tread depth between 280mm and 425mm.
A handrail if there are three or more risers.

Reference: Crown, 2015, The Building Regulations, Approved Document M: access to and use of buildings, volume 1: dwellings, Page: 14

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Document M: Volume 1 - Dwellings

Document K: Protection From Falling, collision & Impact

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Our free Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Building Regulations documents related to accessibility into dwellings or other buildings, such as commercial or public properties.

The half-hour session can be arranged at a time and location that suits you and your team or conducted online with our in-house experts using screen-sharing technology.

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