access for disabled

8/2/2019 Access for Disabled

1/30

Introduction

1

This Technical Booklet has been prepared bythe Department of Finance and Personnel andprovides for certain methods and standards ofbuilding which, if followed, will satisfy the

requirements of the Building Regulations(Northern Ireland) 2000 (the BuildingRegulations).

There is no obligation to follow the methods orcomply with the standards set out in thisTechnical Booklet.

If you prefer you may adopt another way ofmeeting the requirements of the BuildingRegulations but you will have to demonstratethat you have satisfied those requirements byother means.

Other regulations

This Technical Booklet relates only to therequirements of regulations R2, R3, and R4.The work will also have to comply with all otherrelevant Building Regulations.

British Standards and EuropeanTechnical Specifications

In this introduction and throughout this

Technical Booklet any reference to a BritishStandard shall be construed as a reference to

(a) a British Standard or British Standard Codeof Practice;

(b) a harmonised standard or other relevantstandard of a national standards body of anyMember State of the European Economic Area;

(c) an international standard recognised foruse in any Member State of the EuropeanEconomic Area;

(d) any appropriate, traditional procedure ofmanufacture of a Member State of theEuropean Economic Area which has atechnical description sufficiently detailed topermit an assessment of the goods ormaterials for the use specified; or

(e) a European Technical Approval issued inaccordance with the Construction ProductsDirective,

provided that the proposed standard, code ofpractice, specification, technical description or

European Technical Approval provides, in use,equivalent levels of safety, suitability andfitness for purpose as that provided by theBritish Standard.

Products conforming with a EuropeanCouncil Directive

Any product designed and manufactured to

comply with the requirements of a EuropeanCouncil Directive does not have to comply withany other standard or part of a standard,whether British, International or other, whichrelates to the same characteristic or specificpurpose as the EC Directive.

CE marked construction products

Any construction product (within the meaningof the Construction Products Directive) whichbears a CE marking shall be treated as if itsatisfied the requirements of any appropriate

British Board of Agrment Certificate, BritishStandard or British Standard Code of Practicerelating to such a product, where the CEmarking relates to the same characteristic orspecific purpose as the Certificate, Standard orCode of Practice.

Testing of materials and construction

Where for the purposes of this TechnicalBooklet testing is carried out it shall be carriedout by an appropriate organisation offering

suitable and satisfactory evidence of technicaland professional competence andindependence. This condition shall be satisfiedwhere the testing organisation is accredited ina Member State of the European EconomicArea in accordance with the relevant parts ofthe EN 45000 series of standards for the testscarried out.


2/30

2

Materials and workmanship

Any work to which a requirement of theBuilding Regulations applies must, inaccordance with Part B of the BuildingRegulations, be carried out with suitablematerials and in a workmanlike manner. Therequirements of Part B can be complied with

by following an appropriate British Standard orit may be demonstrated that the requirementshave been complied with by other suitablemeans, such as an acceptable British Board ofAgrment Certificate, Quality AssuranceScheme, Independent Certification Scheme orAccredited Laboratory Test Certificate.

ContentsPage

Foreword 3

Section 1 General 8

Buildings other than dwellings

Section 2 Means of access to and into a building 9

Section 3 Access within a building 14

Section 4 Use of a building 18

Section 5 Sanitary accommodation 20

Section 6 Audience or spectator seating 22

Dwellings

Section 7 Means of access to and into a dwelling 23

Section 8 Circulation within a dwelling 25

Section 9 Common stairs and passenger lifts in a block of dwellings 26

Section 10 Sanitary convenience in a dwelling 28

Section 11 Heights of switches, socket outlets etc. in a dwelling 29

Appendix Publications referred to 30

Diagrams

The diagrams in this Technical Bookletsupplement the text. They do not show all thedetails of construction and are not intended toillustrate compliance with any otherrequirement of the Building Regulations. Theyare not necessarily to scale and should not be

used as working details.

References

Any reference in this Technical Booklet to apublication shall, unless otherwise stated, beconstrued as a reference to the edition quoted,together with any amendments, supplementsor addenda thereto current at 22 November2000.


3/30

3

Foreword

Buildings other than dwellings

0.1 The provisions for access and facilities arefor the benefit of disabled people who arevisitors to the building or who work in it.

Where Part R applies, reasonable provisionshould be made

(a) so that disabled people can reach theprincipal entrance to the building and otherentrances described in this Technical Booklet,from the boundary of the land belonging to thebuilding and from car parking within thisboundary;

(b) so that elements of the building do notconstitute a hazard for disabled people with an

impairment of sight;

(c) for access for disabled people into andwithin any storey of the building and to anyfacilities provided to comply with Part R;

(d) so that disabled people can use thebuildings facilities;

(e) for sanitary accommodation for disabledpeople;

(f) for suitable accommodation for disabledpeople in audience or spectator seating; and

(g) for aids to communication in auditoria,conference rooms and ticket offices for peoplewith an impairment of hearing.

0.2 An extension which is independentlyapproached and entered from the boundaryshould be treated in the same manner as anew building. Where access to an extension isachieved only through the existing building PartR applies to the extension of a storey if Part Rapplied to the existing storey when it waserected. Part R also applies to a ground storey

extension if

(a) there is fortuitous access for disabledpeople to and within the existing ground storey;

(b) the extension has a separate entrance; or

(c) it is both greater than 200m2

and more than10% of the existing ground storey area.

Part R is limited to matters of access to, into,within, and uses of a building. It does notextend to means of escape for disabled peoplein the event of fire, for which reference shouldbe made to Part E (Fire safety).

Part H (Stairs, ramps, guarding and protectionfrom impact) contains provisions for the designof stairs and ramps which are part of abuilding. Part R contains more specific

provisions for stairs and ramps that need to besuitable for use by disabled people. Wheresuch a stair or ramp is part of a building it mustsatisfy the requirements of both Parts.

Section 2 - Means of access to andinto a building

0.3 The aim of this Section is to provide asuitable means of access for disabled peopleto the building from the point of entrance at theboundary and from car parking which isprovided within the boundary. Where there is a

long entrance road within the boundary it maybe reasonable to provide access from the carparking only.

Level approach - A level approach ispreferred as wheelchair users and ambulantdisabled people have difficulty in negotiatingchanges of level and people with impairedsight may be unaware of abrupt changes inlevel.

Ramped approach Steep gradients createdifficulties for some wheelchair users who lack

the strength to propel themselves up a slope orhave difficulty in slowing down or stoppingwhen descending. Wheelchair users needadequate space to stop on landings, to openand to pass through doors without the need toreverse into circulation routes or to run the riskof rolling back down slopes. The risk ofwheelchair users catching their feet beneath orbetween balustrade rails should be minimisedby providing kerbs or solid balustrades onopen sides of ramped approaches. Someambulant disabled people have difficulty with

ramps and therefore it is desirable to provide aramped approach with complementary steps.

Complementary steps People with impairedsight are at risk of tripping or losing theirbalance when meeting sudden changes oflevel. The danger is at its greatest whenapproaching the head of a flight of steps andcan be reduced by the use of a suitable tactilesurface. People who wear callipers or whohave stiffness in hip or knee joints areparticularly at risk of tripping by catching theirfeet beneath nosings or treads. People with

physical weakness on one side and peoplewith sight impairments need treads which allowboth feet to be placed squarely onto them.


4/30

4

Handrails People who have physicaldifficulty in negotiating a change of level needgrippable and well supported handrails on bothsides of ramps and steps. The handrail shouldextend beyond the top and bottom steps.

Hazards on access routes Features of thebuilding which occasionally obstruct a route

adjacent to the building may be a hazard topeople with sight impairments, particularly ifthe object is partially transparent and thereforeindistinct.

Entrance doors Sufficient width should beavailable for wheelchair manoeuvre atentrance doors. A space provided alongsidethe leading edge of a door reduces the risk ofa wheelchair user being prevented fromreaching the door handle as a result of thewheelchair footrest colliding with the returnwall. People with mobility difficulties may notbe able to react quickly to avoid collisions andwhere feasible, they should be able to seepeople approaching the other side of entrancesand should themselves be seen.

Small revolving doors are not suitable for useby disabled people. Timing of entry and exitcreates problems for people with sightimpairments and people with ambulatoryproblems. In addition, there may be insufficientspace within the confines of the door toaccommodate a wheelchair or too little time for

manoeuvre. Some larger types of revolvingdoors which accommodate several people,which revolve very slowly and which havemechanisms to stop them when they feelresistance, may be suitable as entrance doorsin certain circumstances.

Entrance lobbies A wheelchair user shouldbe able to move clear of one door before usingthe next one and it is preferable for the doorsto open in the same direction. There shouldalso be space for someone assisting thewheelchair user and for someone passing in

the opposite direction.

Section 3 Access within a building

0.4 The aim of this Section is to facilitate themovement of disabled people within buildings.Much has to do with the provision of sufficientspace for wheelchair manoeuvre, convenientways of travelling from one storey to anotherand the inclusion of features which will helpthose with impaired hearing or sight to findtheir way safely and conveniently. Whilst the

provisions are not focused entirely on theneeds of wheelchair users the more generousspace criteria often relate to the space requiredto manoeuvre a wheelchair.

Horizontal circulation within a building Inlocations required to be accessible towheelchair users, doors, corridors,passageways and internal lobbies need to bewide enough to allow for wheelchairmanoeuvre and for other people to pass.Internal doors should have space at the

leading edge and visibility panels for the samereasons as entrance doors. Internal lobbiesare less likely to be used by several people atthe same time and less generous spacestandards may be adopted but a wheelchairuser should be able to move clear of one doorbefore using the next one. The provision of aramp to effect a change in level within a storeymay have serious planning implications and asan alternative a platform lift may be provided.A stair for use by ambulant people shouldalways be provided adjacent to the platform lift.

Vertical circulation within a building Themost suitable means of access for disabledpeople when passing from one storey toanother is a passenger lift. However given theadded cost and intrusion into usable space it isnot reasonable to require a lift to be providedin every instance.

Where a lift is not required a stair designed tosuit the needs of ambulant disabled peopleshould be provided.

In any event at least one stair in every building

should be suitable for use by people withimpaired sight.

Internal stair An internal stair should besimilar to a stepped approach. For internalstairs it is not considered reasonable to requiretactile warnings at the onset of changes oflevel. The nosings of each stair should,however, be distinguishable for the benefit ofpeople with impaired sight.

Section 4 Use of a building

0.5 It is important that disabled people are ableto reach and use the facilities provided forthem in buildings.

Therefore, facilities such as doctors anddentists consulting rooms or other healthfacilities should be located in a storey to whichwheelchair users have access.

Restaurants and bars Bars and self-servicecounters should be accessible with suitableaccess from them to seating areas.

Where premises contain both self-service andwaiter service, disabled people should haveaccess to both.


5/30

5

Hotel and motel bedrooms Disabled peoplewho use a wheelchair need a bedroom whichis accessible and is sufficiently spacious andarranged to allow manoeuvring of a wheelchairwithin it and into an en suite bathroom, ifprovided.

Shower facilities The provision of a level

deck shower with manoeuvring space toenable the transfer from a wheelchair to theseat, and the position of taps, shower headand grab rails are all critical aspects in relationto shower facilities.

Changing facilities Provision ofmanoeuvring space for a wheelchair, fortransfer onto the seat, and of mirrors andclothes hooks mounted at suitable heights, areall critical aspects in relation to changingfacilities.

Aids to communication In order to derivethe full benefit of attending a publicperformance or playing a proper part indiscussions, disabled people with impairedhearing need to receive a signal some 20dBabove that received by people with normalhearing. The 2 systems most commonly usedto improve the signal are loop induction andinfra-red systems.

Section 5 Sanitary accommodation

0.6 Sanitary accommodation should be no lessavailable for disabled people than for non-disabled. This Section provides solutions whichsatisfy that principle, bearing in mind the useand size of the building.

Sanitary accommodation for disabled staffDisabled staff may be less likely to needassistance than a disabled visitor or customerand it is more likely that assistance will beprovided by a person of the same sextherefore an integral facility may be adequate;whereas a disabled visitor or customer is more

likely to be accompanied by a companion ofthe opposite sex and a unisex facility would bemore appropriate.

Sanitary accommodation for wheelchairusers Whether WC compartments aredesigned on a unisex or integral basis, theyshould be similar in layout and content, andshould satisfy the need

(a) to achieve necessary wheelchairmanoeuvre;

(b) to allow for frontal, lateral, diagonal andbackward transfer onto the WC and to havefacilities for hand washing and hand drying

within reach from the WC, prior to transferback onto the wheelchair; and

(c) to have space to allow a helper to assist inthe transfer.

Where sanitary accommodation is to beprovided in upper or lower storeys without lift

access, the aim should be to make reasonableprovision for people who have a mobilityimpairment or need some support to stand upor sit down.

Section 6 Audience or spectatorseating

0.7 The aim of this Section is to makereasonable provision for wheelchair users intheatres, cinemas, concert halls, sports stadiaand the like.

Wheelchair spaces Wheelchair users needto be provided with a space into which theycan manoeuvre easily and which allows them aclear view of the event. In addition they shouldhave the choice of being able to sit next todisabled or non-disabled companions.

Dwellings

0.8 The provisions for access and for facilitieswithin dwellings are for the benefit of disabledpeople who may visit the dwelling.

Where Part R applies, reasonable provisionshould be made

(a) so that disabled people can reach theprincipal entrance to the dwelling, or to acommon entrance to a block of dwellings, fromthe boundary of the land belonging to thedwelling or from car parking within thisboundary;

(b) for access for disabled people into andwithin the entrance storey or the principalstorey of the dwelling and to access and useany facilities provided to comply with Part R;and

(c) for sanitary conveniences for disabledpeople.

Part R does not extend to means of escape fordisabled people in the event of fire, for whichreference should be made to Part E (Firesafety).

Part H (Stairs, ramps, guarding and protectionfrom impact) contains provisions for the design

of stairs and ramps which are part of abuilding. Part R contains more specificprovisions for stairs and ramps that need to be


6/30

6

suitable for use by disabled people. Wheresuch a stair or ramp is part of a dwelling or ablock of dwellings it must satisfy therequirements of both Parts.

Section 7 Means of access to andinto a dwelling

0.9 The aim is to make reasonable provisionfor a disabled person to approach and gainaccess into a dwelling from the boundary of theplot or the point of alighting from a vehicle on adriveway within the plot. In most circumstancesa level or ramped approach should be providedto the entrance to a dwelling or to a commonentrance to a block of dwellings e.g. flats.

External approach The provision of anexternal approach which can be used bydisabled people will often be a matter of

practicability. Variations in topography,available plot area, and the distance of thedwelling from the point of access mayinfluence the type of approach that can beprovided.

On most plots wheelchair users should be ableto have access to the principal entrance.Exceptionally, on steeply sloping plots accessmay be to a suitable alternative entrance by alevel or ramped approach. Where there is noalternative but to provide a stepped approach,the steps should be designed to suit the needs

of ambulant disabled people. The steppedapproach should have as few steps aspossible as someone using a wheelchair mayneed assistance to negotiate the steps.

The presence of a driveway may provide abetter opportunity for creating a level orramped approach, particularly if it also providesthe sole means of approach for visitors whoare disabled. The driveway could be designedas the approach to the dwelling or to acommon entrance to a block of dwellings.

In such cases the approach should exclude thespace for any parked vehicle but a vehicle doormay open across it.

The surface of an approach available to awheelchair user should be firm enough tosupport the weight of the user and his or herwheelchair and smooth enough to permit easymanoeuvre. It should also take account of theneeds of stick and crutch users. Loose laidmaterials, such as gravel or shingle, are notsuitable for an approach.

Thresholds A level threshold should beprovided at the entrance, even where theapproach to the entrance is stepped. However,

if circumstances mean a step at the thresholdis unavoidable, its rise should be as small aspossible.

Section 8 Circulation within adwelling

0.10 The aim is to facilitate access intohabitable rooms and to a sanitary conveniencein the entrance storey or the principal storey.

Circulation routes and internal doors Circulation routes should be sufficiently wide toallow convenient circulation by disabledpeople. Consideration should be given to theeffects of local obstructions such as radiatorsand other fixtures.

Internal doors need to be of a suitable width tofacilitate wheelchair manoeuvre and wider

doors are needed where a wheelchair cannotapproach them head-on.

Vertical circulation Where the circulationwithin the entrance storey or the access to aprincipal storey includes a stair, it should besuitable for use by ambulant disabled people.

Section 9 Common stairs andpassenger lifts in a block ofdwellings

0.11 In a block of dwellings e.g. flats, the aim

should be to make reasonable provision fordisabled people to visit occupants who live onany storey. The most suitable means of accessfor disabled people from one storey to anotheris a passenger lift. However, a lift may notalways be provided.

Common stairs A stair in a common areashould be designed to suit the needs ofambulant disabled people. However, where apassenger lift is provided to give accessbetween storeys, the common stair need onlybe suitable for people with impaired sight.

Lifts Where a lift is provided, it should besuitable for an unaccompanied wheelchair userand people with sensory impairments.Measures should also be adopted to givedisabled people sufficient time to enter andleave the lift without the risk of contact with theclosing doors.


7/30

7

Section 10 Sanitary convenience ina dwelling

0.12 The aim is to provide a sanitaryconvenience which a disabled visitor to thedwelling may use. The sanitary conveniencewill normally be located in the entrance storey.Where the entrance storey contains nohabitable rooms, a sanitary convenienceshould be provided in the principal storey.

It will not always be practicable for awheelchair to be fully accommodated within thesanitary accommodation. In suchcircumstances a wheelchair user may needassistance.

Section 11 Heights of switches,socket outlets etc. in a dwelling

0.13 The aim is to assist those people whosereach is limited, to use a dwelling more easily,by locating switches, sockets etc. at suitableheights.


8/30

8

Section 1 General

1.1 This Section defines terms relating toaccess and facilities for disabled people in andabout buildings.

Definitions1.2 In this Technical Booklet the followingdefinitions apply

Access approach or entry.

Accessible that access is provided fordisabled people.

Boundary the boundary of the land(excluding any abutting street, canal or river)on which the building is erected.

Isolator a switch used to cut off the supply ofelectricity to an electrical appliance formaintenance purposes.

Plot the area within the boundary of the landon which the building is erected.

Plot gradient means the gradient measuredalong the route of travel between the point ofentry and the floor level at

(a) the principal or an alternative entrance to adwelling; or

(b) the common entrance or an alternativeentrance to a block of dwellings.

Point of entry the point at which a personvisiting the building either

(a) normally enters the plot; or

(b) alights from a vehicle within the plot.

Principal entrance (in buildings other thandwellings or a block of dwellings) the mainentrance or entrances for the users of thebuilding.

Principal entrance storey the storey orstoreys where the principal entrance orentrances are located. If an alternativeaccessible entrance is to be provided by virtueof paragraph 2.8 the storey containing thatentrance is a principal entrance storey.

Unisex sanitary accommodation sanitaryaccommodation containing not more than oneWC, which is approached separately from anyother sanitary accommodation and which canbe used by people of either sex.

Wheelchair space a level space of at least900 mm width and 1400 mm depth accessibleto a wheelchair user and providing a clear viewof the event.


9/30

9

Section 2 Means of access to and into abuilding

2.1 This Section deals firstly with the externalapproach to a building other than a dwelling ora block of dwellings and then with the buildingentrance.

General rules

Access to the building

2.2 Disabled people shall have suitable meansof access to a building from the point ofentrance at the boundary and from car parkingwhich is provided within the boundary by

(a) a level approach complying with the

provisions of paragraph 2.3;

(b) a ramped approach complying with theprovisions of paragraph 2.4; or

(c) a ramped approach with complementarysteps complying with the provisions ofparagraph 2.5.

Any combination of (a), (b) or (c) may be usedwithin the one approach.

Some ambulant disabled people have difficultywith ramps and where practicable a rampedapproach with complementary steps shall beprovided.

These approaches shall be guarded wherethere is a risk of falling. In such circumstancesguarding shall be provided complying with theprovisions in Technical Booklet H: Section 4(where category 3(a) or (f) in Table 4.1 shall beused).

Level approach

2.3 A level approach shall have

(a) an unobstructed width of not less than 1200mm except at handrail level or at a localobstruction where the width may be reduced to1000 mm; and

(b) a gradient of not more than 1 in 20.

Where a level approach crosses a carriagewaya dropped kerb and tactile warning paving ofType (a) as shown in Diagram 2.1 shall beprovided.

Diagram 2.1 Tactile paving slabs

see paras 2.3 and 2.5

(a) modified blister paving adjacentto carriageway crossing

25mm

5mm

300/400/500mm square

(b) corduroy paving adjacent to steps

Plan

20mm

6mm

50mm

Section


10/30

10

Ramped approach

2.4 A ramped approach shall consist of a rampor ramps and landings and shall have

(a) a surface which reduces the risk of slipping;

(b) an unobstructed width of not less than 1200mm, except at handrail level where the widthmay be reduced to 1000 mm;

(c) a ramp not exceeding

(i) 10 m in length where the slope of theramp does not exceed 1 in 15; or

(ii) 5 m in length where the slope of theramp does not exceed 1 in 12;

(d) landings with an unobstructed length of not

less than 1200 mm at the top and bottom ofeach ramp. However where a landing isbetween two ramps it shall have a length of notless than 1500 mm. In all cases theunobstructed length shall be clear of any doorswing;

(e) a raised kerb of not less than 100 mm highon any open side (except where it wouldobstruct normal use); and

Diagram 2.2 Ramped approach with complementary steps


A length of ramps.maximum length of ramp 10m.

where the length exceeds 5m slope shall notexceed 1 in 15.

where length of ramp is equal to or less than 5mslope shall not exceed 1 in 12

B width of ramps.

surface width not less than 1200mm,unobstructed width not less than 1000mm

C landing length.at top and bottom not less than 1200mm,

between ramps not less than 1500mm

height of kerb at openside of ramp not lessthan 100mm

handrails and guarding not shown

C

A

C

B

tactilesurface

Diagram 2.3 Tactile and visualwarnings

see para 2.5tactile surface incorporatedinto landing at top of stairs toextend 150mm at each sideof stairs and to stop 400mmfrom nosing

permanent contrastincorporated into treads offlight

minimumwidth betweenhandrails

1000mm

800mmmin

400mmmax

1500mmmin

150mm

150mm

(f) a suitable continuous handrail on each sideif the horizontal length of the ramp is greaterthan 2000 mm.

See Diagram 2.2.


11/30

11

Ramped approach with complementarysteps

2.5 A ramped approach with complementarysteps (see Diagram 2.2) shall consist of aramped approach which meets the provisionsof paragraph 2.4.

The complementary steps and associatedlandings shall have

(a) a tactile surface of Type (b) in Diagram 2.1on the top landing to give advance warning ofthe change in level (see Diagrams 2.1, 2.2 and2.3);

(b) step nosings which are distinguishablethrough permanent contrasting brightness;

(c) an unobstructed width of not less than 1000

mm;

(d) a rise of not more than 1200 mm in eachflight of steps;

(e) top and bottom landings (and wherenecessary intermediate landings) with anunobstructed length of not less than 1200 mmclear of any door swing onto them;

(f) steps with a uniform rise of not less than75 mm and not more than 150 mm;

(g) steps with a uniform going of not less than280 mm (which in the case of tapered treadsshall be measured at a point 270 mm from thenarrow end);

(h) rises that are not open and have a suitableprofile such that the risk of tripping is reduced(see Diagram 2.4b); and

(i) a suitable continuous handrail on each sidecomplying with the provisions of paragraph 2.6where there are 2 or more steps.

See Diagrams 2.2 and 2.4.

Diagram 2.4 Stepped approach

see para 2.5

1200mmmaximum

1000mm

900mm

1000mm

300mm

(a) external steps and handrails

(b) examples of suitable tread nosing profilesmaximum rise 150mmminimum going 280mm

15 25mm

15 25mm

60minimum


12/30

12

Handrails

2.6 A handrail shall

(a) be at a height measured vertically of

(i) 900 mm above the pitch line of a flight of

steps; or

(ii) 1000 mm above the surface of a ramp orthe level of a landing;

(b) extend not less than 300 mm horizontallybeyond the top and bottom nosings of a flightof steps or the top and bottom of a rampexcept at an intermediate landing not greaterthan 1500 mm in length where it shall extendthe full length of the landing (see Diagram2.4(a));

(c) terminate in a closed end which does notproject into a route of travel; and

(d) be well supported and have a profile andprojection which allows a firm grip. A suitablecircular handrail is shown in Diagram 2.5.

Diagram 2.5 Circular handrail


45mm

50mm

38 50mm

Diagram 2.6 External hazards

see para 2.7

reduce the hazard by-

(a) guarding opening lights if pathadjacent;

(b) arranging strong tactiledifference between path edge andwall face; or

(c) providing a kerb

Plan

guarding

Section

cobbles and veryslight change oflevel

100mm

Hazards on access routes

2.7 To reduce hazards on access routes forpeople with sight impairments, windows anddoors which open outwards (other than thosefor emergency use only) shall not cause anobstruction on a path which runs along the

face of a building. Acceptable means ofreducing these hazards are shown in Diagram2.6.


13/30

13

Access into the building

2.8 The principal entrance for visitors orcustomers and an entrance which isspecifically for members of staff shall beaccessible and suitable for disabled people.However

(a) where the space outside the principal orstaff entrance is severely restricted or the slopeof the ground makes access for disabledpeople impracticable; or

(b) where car parking is provided adjacent toand serving a building and access for disabledpeople to the principal or staff entrance isimpracticable,

an alternative entrance intended for generaluse which is accessible and suitable for

disabled people is acceptable provided there isinternal access for disabled people from thatentrance to the principal and staff entrances.

Entrance doors

2.9 To be suitable for use by disabled peoplean entrance door shall

(a) contain a leaf which provides a clearopening width of not less than 800 mm;

(b) have a glazed panel or panels giving azone of visibility from a height of not more than900 mm to not less than 1500 mm from thefinished floor level where the opening action ofthe door could constitute a hazard; and

(c) have an unobstructed space of not lessthan 300 mm at the leading edge of the door orbe opened by a suitable automatic control.

See Diagram 2.7.

Entrance lobbies

2.10 An entrance lobby shall have theminimum dimensions shown in Diagram 2.8.

Diagram 2.8 Entrance lobbies

see para 2.10

1500mm

2000mm

300mmminimum

300mmminimum

300mmminimum

1500mm

1500mm

1800mm

2000mm

2000mm

1800mm doubleleaf set BS4787: Pt1

2300mm

1800mm doubleleaf set BS4787: Pt1

2400mm

Diagram 2.7 Entrance doorways

see para 2.9minimum clear

opening 800mm

300mmminimum

(a) minimum clear openingsingle doors and at least one of a pair of doorsshall provide the minimum clear opening

minimumzone ofvisibility

900mm

1500mm

(b) glazed panels


14/30

14

Section 3 Access within a building

3.1 This Section deals firstly with access withina storey (horizontal circulation) and then withaccess between storeys (vertical circulation) ina building other than a dwelling or a block ofdwellings.

The use includes access to

(a) all parts of a storey other than thoseexcluded by Regulation R1 (2); and

(b) all storeys (subject to the provisions inparagraph 3.7).

Horizontal circulation within abuilding

3.2 Horizontal circulation within a storey shallbe level, or by means of a ramp or rampscomplying with the provisions of paragraph 2.4.

However, where it is impracticable to provide aramp a platform lift complying with BS 6440:1999 may be used together with a staircomplying with the provisions of paragraph 3.8.

Internal doors

3.3 An internal door shall

(a) contain a leaf which provides a clearopening width of not less than 750 mm;

(b) have an unobstructed space of not lessthan 300 mm at the leading edge of the door,or be opened by a suitable automatic control;and

(c) where it is across a corridor orpassageway, have a glazed panel or panelsgiving a zone of visibility from a height of not

more than 900 mm to not less than 1500 mmfrom the finished floor level where the openingof the door could constitute a hazard.

See Diagram 3.1.

Diagram 3.1 Internal doorways

see para 3.3minimum clear

opening 750mm

300mmminimum

(a) minimum clear opening

single doors and at least one of a pair of doorsshall provide the minimum clear opening

minimumzone ofvisibility

900mm

1500mm

(b) glazed panelsdoors across circulation routes shall havevisibility glazing

Corridors and passageways

3.4 Corridors or passageways shall have anunobstructed width of 1200 mm except those towhich wheelchair users will not have access,

where the unobstructed width shall be not lessthan 1000 mm.


15/30

15

Vertical circulation within a building

3.6 Subject to paragraph 3.7 vertical circulationto any storey above or below the principalentrance storey shall be provided by means ofa passenger lift complying with paragraph 3.9or a ramp complying with paragraph 3.10.

Where such a lift or ramp is provided a staircomplying with paragraph 3.8(a) and (h) shallalso be provided.

Where such a lift or ramp is not provided (seeparagraph 3.7) vertical circulation shall beprovided by a stair complying with paragraph3.8 (a) to (h).

3.7 A passenger lift or a ramp need not beprovided to serve a storey which has a nettfloor area less than, in the case of

(a) a 2 storey building - 280 m2; or

(b) a building of more than 2 storeys - 200 m2,

unless that storey contains a facility to whichwheelchair users should have access ie. afacility described in Section 4, 5 or 6 or acommon facility such as a canteen orconference room.

The nett floor area of a storey shall be

measured as follows

the areas of all parts of a storey which use thesame entrance from the street or an indoormall shall be added together, whether they arein more than one part of the same storey, orused for different purposes. Areas which shallnot be included in the calculation of nett floorarea are vertical circulation, sanitaryaccommodation, machine rooms and areasused for the maintenance or repair of thebuilding.

Diagram 3.2 Internal lobbies

see para 3.5

1200mm

2000mm

300mmminimum

1200mm

1200mm

a 300mm minimum

unobstructed spaceshall be provided next tothe leading edge of alldoors

300mmminimum

300mmminimum

2400mm

2000mm

1500mm

1700mm300mmminimum

1500mm

300mmminimum

2100mm

300mmminimum

300mm

minimum

Internal lobbies

3.5 An internal lobby shall have the minimumdimensions shown in Diagram 3.2.


16/30

16

Internal stairs

3.8 An internal stair shall have

(a) step nosings which are distinguishablethrough permanent contrasting brightness;

(b) an unobstructed width of not less than 1000mm;

(c) a rise of not more than 1800 mm in a flight;

(d) landings with an unobstructed length of notless than 1200 mm clear of any door swingonto them;

(e) steps with a uniform rise of not more than170 mm;

(f) steps with a uniform going of not less than

250 mm (which, in the case of tapered treads,shall be measured at a point 270 mm from thenarrow end);

(g) rises which are not open and have asuitable profile such that the risk of tripping isreduced (see Diagram 3.3(b)); and

(h) a suitable continuous handrail on each sideof the stair complying with the provisions forhandrails given in paragraph 2.6 (see Diagram2.5).

Diagram 3.3 Internal stairs

see para 3.8

1800mmmaximum

1000mm

900mm

1000mm

300mm

(a) internal steps and handrails

(b) examples of suitable tread nosing profilesmaximum rise 170mmminimum going 250mm

15 25mm

15 25mm

60minimum


17/30

17

Passenger lifts

3.9 A passenger lift shall

(a) have a door or doors which provide a clearopening width of not less than 800 mm;

(b) have a car with a width of not less than1100 mm and a length of not less than 1400mm measured internally;

(c) have controls that are not less than 900mm or more than 1200 mm above the floor ofthe car and are not less than 400 mmhorizontally from the front wall of the car;

(d) where it serves more than 2 storeys beprovided with

(i) suitable tactile indication on or adjacent

to lift buttons within the car to identify thefloor selected; and

(ii) visual indication and voice indication ofthe floor reached;

(e) incorporate a signalling system which gives5 seconds notification that the lift is answeringa landing call, and have a dwell time of 5seconds before its doors begin to close afterthey are fully open. The dwell time may bereduced to 3 seconds where the door closing

system is overridden by a door re-activatingdevice which relies on photo-electric or infra-red methods but not a door edge pressuresystem;

(f) have a landing on each storey with

(i) an unobstructed length and width of1500 mm in front of the door to the lift;and

(ii) lift call buttons which are not less than900 mm or more than 1200 mm above thefloor level of the landing and areaccompanied by suitable tactileindications (on or adjacent to the buttons)to identify the storey and direction oftravel; and

(g) have suitable means of access to thestorey.

See Diagram 3.4.

Internal ramps

3.10 An internal ramp shall comply with the

provisions for a ramped approach given inparagraph 2.4.

Diagram 3.4 Lift dimensions

see para 3.9

tactile identification offloor level selection

1100mmminimum

1200mmmaximum

minimum1500mm x 1500mmunobstructed landing space

1400mmminimum

1200mmmaximum

tactile identificationof floor levelselection

800mmminimum

900mmminimum

900mmminimum

400mmminimum


18/30

18

Section 4 Use of a building

4.1 This Section contains provisions which willassist disabled people to make use of certainfacilities in a building other than a dwelling or ablock of dwellings.

Restaurants and bars

4.2 In restaurants and bars disabled peopleshall have access to

(a) the full range of services offered;

(b) all bar and self-service counters; and

(c) not less than half the area where seating isprovided. Where self-service and waiter service

Diagram 4.1 A suitable hotel bedroomand en suite bathroom

see para 4.3

750mm minimumclear opening

2000mm

Notes(1) Bath arrangement as in Diagram 4.2(2) Shower arrangement as in Diagram 4.3(3) Grab rails are not shown but should be provided as shown in

Diagram 4.2 for a bath, in Diagram 4.3 for a shower and inDiagram 5.1 for a WC

(4) Sufficient space shall be provided between the WC and bath,to permit lateral transfer from a wheelchair, and between theWC and basin, to permit frontal transfer

3600mm

3500mm

2400mm

bath or shower

800mm minimum

clear opening width

alternative1500mm

turning circle

1500mmturning circle

1200mm

Diagram 4.2 A suitable batharrangement

see para 4.4

straightgrab bar

475mm

angled grab bar

seat

300mm (500mm preferred)

straightgrab bar

seating are separate, this provision shall applyto both areas.

Hotels and motels

Bedrooms

4.3 At least one guest bedroom out of every 20or part thereof of guest bedrooms shall besuitable in terms of size, layout and facilities foruse by a person who uses a wheelchair andthe entrance door shall comply with theprovisions of paragraph 3.3 (a) and (b). Asuitable layout is shown in Diagram 4.1.

The entrance door to any other guest bedroomshall have a clear opening width of not less

than 750 mm.

Bathrooms

4.4 A bath or shower suitable for wheelchairusers shall be provided either

(a) en suite where that is the arrangement forthe rest of the bedrooms; or

(b) nearby and on the same storey as thebedrooms for wheelchair users with at least

one bath or shower for every 6 such bedroomsor part thereof.


19/30

19

A suitable en suite bathroom is shown inDiagram 4.1, a suitable bath arrangement isshown in Diagram 4.2 and a suitable showercompartment is shown in Diagram 4.3.

Changing facilities

4.5 Changing rooms in swimming pool andother recreational buildings shall contain atleast one shower compartment and dressingcubicle suitable for use by disabled people. Asuitable shower compartment is shown inDiagram 4.3 and a suitable dressing cubicle isshown in Diagram 4.4.

Aids to communication

4.6 Auditoria or conference rooms which aremore than 100 m2 in area, and booking orticket offices where the customer is separatedfrom the vendor by a glazed screen, shall havea suitable communication system which willafford to a person using a hearing aid thebenefit of receiving sound at an adequate levelwithout loss or distortion through pooracoustics or extraneous noise. Suchcommunication systems include loop inductionsystems and infra-red systems.

Diagram 4.3 Shower compartment

see para 4.5

Plan

shower curtain rail

Section

1400mm

900mm

700mm

475mmtip up seat

fixed grabrails zone for

showercontrols

1200mm

900mm

2200mm

slope on floor to drain

1200mm 900mm

unobstructedapproach

variableheightshower

tip up seatshower curtain

900mm

1400mm fixed grab rails

1000mm

shower head tobe variablebetween 1.2mto 2.2m fromfloor level

Diagram 4.4 Dressing cubicle

see para 4.5

C

C

Section

tip up seat

(a) plan of cubicle with curtain

(b) plan of cubicle with door

2200mm

700mm

475mm550mm

900mm

1200mm

1450mm

minimum unobstructed

height

mirror

tip up seat

horizontal grab rail

height zonefor switches etc

1600mm


1400mm

mirror


curtain

900mm450mm


1400mm


1500mm

1100mm

mirror

750mm

tip up seat

450mm

1800mm

1400mm


20/30

20

Section 5 Sanitary accommodation

5.1 This Section contains provisions whichensure that there is adequate sanitaryaccommodation for disabled people in abuilding other than a dwelling or a block ofdwellings.

Provisions for wheelchair users

Visitors and customers

5.2 Where sanitary accommodation is providedfor visitors or customers, at least one unit ofunisex sanitary accommodation suitable foruse by wheelchair users shall be provided (seeDiagram 5.1).

Staff

5.3 Sanitary accommodation suitable for staffwho use a wheelchair (see Diagram 5.1) shallbe provided either

(a) integral within the traditional separatefacilities for male and female; or

(b) as unisex sanitary accommodation.

5.4 In a building which has a passenger liftcomplying with the provisions of paragraph 3.9sanitary accommodation for wheelchair usersneed not be provided on every storey, providedthat

(a) such sanitary accommodation for each sexis available on alternate storeys;

(b) the cumulative horizontal travel distancefrom any work station to that sanitaryaccommodation does not exceed 40 m; and

(c) such sanitary accommodation is located inareas to which anyone using the building has

unrestricted access.

Hotel and motel guest bedrooms

5.5 The sanitary accommodation for guestbedrooms which are designed to be suitablefor wheelchair users shall be in the form of

(a) en suite sanitary accommodation wherethat is the arrangement for the rest of thebedrooms; or

(b) unisex sanitary accommodation locatednearby and on the same storey as thosebedrooms with at least 1 unit for every 6bedrooms or part thereof and shall be inaddition to sanitary accommodation provided tomeet the provisions of paragraphs 5.2 - 5.4,5.6 and 5.7.

En suite sanitary accommodation shall be asshown in Diagram 4.1 and unisex sanitaryaccommodation shall be as shown inDiagram 5.1.

Buildings with stair access only

5.6 In a building which has stair access only,the sanitary accommodation required byparagraphs 5.2 and 5.3 shall be provided in theprincipal entrance storey unless that storeycontains only the principal entrance andvertical circulation areas.

Diagram 5.1 Wheelchair WCcompartment

see para 5.2

C

750mm

50mm

600mm

Section

35mm diametersupport rails

basin

450mm 475mm totop of seat

750mm

Plan

100mm

2000mm

basin

600mm250mm

750mm

400mm

pull rail

hinged supportrail

200mm

mirror 400mm wide x 900mmfixed 900mm above floor

1000mmsingle leafdoorset

500mm

1500mm

height to top of horizontal support at side ofWC to be 700mm above finished floor level

50mm

200mm150mm

150mm

tap near w.c.


21/30

21

Provision for ambulant disabled people

5.7 Where sanitary accommodation is providedon a storey to which there is a stair accessonly, at least one unit suitable for ambulantdisabled people (see Diagram 5.2) shall beprovided on that storey either

(a) integral within the traditional separatefacilities for male and female; or

(b) as unisex sanitary accommodation.

This provision is in addition to that required byparagraph 5.6.

see para 5.7

Section

support rails

250mm

450mm totop of seat

500mmminimum

400mmapproximately

800mm

1500mm

200mm

support rails

Diagram 5.2 WC compartment forambulant disabled people

Plan


22/30

22

Section 6 Audience or spectator seating

6.1 This Section contains provisions whichensure that there are adequate spaces forwheelchair users in a building which containsaudience or spectator seating.

Provision of wheelchair spaces

6.2 Wheelchair spaces shall be provided inbuildings where there is audience or spectatorseating arranged in such a way as to make itimpracticable for a wheelchair user to haveaccess to all seats.

6.3 The minimum number of wheelchairspaces shall be

(a) where the audience or spectator seating is

for the public - 6 or 1/100th of the total numberof fixed audience or spectator seats availableto the public, whichever is the greater -however in a sports stadium with a seatingcapacity of more than 1,000 the provision shallbe 10 spaces and one additional space forevery 2,000 seats or part thereof; or

(b) in any other case - 2 or 1/100th of the totalnumber of fixed audience or spectator seats,whichever is the greater.

6.4 Wheelchair spaces shall be located in asimilar manner to that shown in Diagram 6.1for a theatre and Diagram 6.2 for a stadium.

The space may be one which is kept clear orbe one which can readily be provided for theoccasion by removing a seat or seats.

Diagram 6.1 Disposition of wheelchairspaces in a theatre

see para 6.4

Plan

in & out in & out

out out

Diagram 6.2 Viewing positions fordisabled people in astadium area

see para 6.4

Plan

Section

1200mmminimum

1400mmminimum

900mmminimum


23/30

23

Section 7 Means of access to and into adwelling

7.1 This Section deals with the externalapproach to a dwelling and to a commonentrance to a block of dwellings.

General provisions

7.2 Disabled people shall have access fromthe point of entry to the principal entrance of adwelling or the common entrance to a block ofdwellings by

(a) a level approach complying with theprovisions of paragraph 7.6; or

(b) a ramped approach complying with the

provisions of paragraph 7.7.

A combination of (a) and (b) may be used.

7.3 Where the plot gradient to the principalentrance of a dwelling or the common entranceto a block of dwellings is greater than

(a) 1 in 15; or

(b) 1 in 12 where the travel distance is lessthan 5m,

access may be provided to an alternativeentrance complying with the provisions ofparagraph 7.2.

Where the plot gradient to an alternativeentrance is greater than (a) or (b), a steppedapproach complying with the provisions ofparagraph 7.8 shall be provided.

7.4 Where the point of entry is at the boundaryof the plot it shall have an unobstructed width

of not less than 900 mm.

7.5 Where a driveway provides the whole orpart of the approach, it shall comply with theprovisions of paragraphs 7.6 or 7.7. Theapproach shall be clear of any parking space.

Where there is a need to guard the approach,guarding shall be provided complying with theprovisions of Technical Booklet H: Section 4(where category 1 (b) or (d) in Table 4.1 shallbe used).

Level approach

7.6 A level approach shall have

(a) a surface which is firm and even;

(b) an unobstructed width not less than 900mm; and

(c) a slope not exceeding 1 in 20.

Where a level approach has a crossfall it shallnot exceed 1 in 40.

Ramped approach

7.7 A ramped approach shall have

(a) a surface which is firm and even;

(b) an unobstructed width not less than 900mm;

(c) a ramp or ramps not exceeding


(ii) 5 m in length where the slope of theramp does not exceed 1 in 12; and

(d) landings with an unobstructed length of notless than 1200 mm.

Stepped approach

7.8 A stepped approach shall have

(a) a flight or flights with an unobstructed widthof not less than 900 mm;

(b) a rise of not more than 1800 mm in eachflight of steps;

(c) steps with a uniform rise of not less than75 mm and not more than 150 mm;

(d) steps with a uniform going of not less than280 mm (which in the case of tapered treadsshall be measured at a point 270 mm from thenarrow end);

(e) steps that are not open and have a suitableprofile such that the risk of tripping is reduced(see Diagram 7.1);

(f) a maximum of 16 steps in a flight;


24/30

24

(g) landings with an unobstructed length of notless than 900 mm; and

(h) a suitable continuous handrail (seeparagraph 7.9) on one side of the flight and atan intermediate landing where the flightcomprises three or more steps.

7.9 A stepped approach shall have a suitablehandrail which

(a) is at a height measured vertically of

(i) 900 mm above the pitch line of a flightof steps; and

(ii) 1000 mm above the surface of alanding; and

(b) extends not less than 300 mm horizontally

beyond the top and bottom nosings of a flightof steps.

Principal entrance

7.10 The principal entrance to a dwelling or thecommon entrance to a block of dwellings shallhave a door with a minimum clear openingwidth of not less than 775 mm and a levelthreshold (see Diagram 7.2).

The access to the principal entrance to adwelling or the common entrance to a block ofdwellings shall be

(a) level for a distance of not less than 900mm; and

(b) at or about the level of the floor of thedwelling.

Where access is by an alternative entrance theabove provisions shall apply to that entrance

and not to the principal entrance or thecommon entrance to a block of dwellings.

Diagram 7.1 External step profiles

see para 7.8

15 25mm

15 25mm

60minimum

Diagram 7.2 Level thresholds

see para 7.10

structural floor

transitionunit

floor

finish

5mmmaximum10mm

maximum

level

approachtothreshold

15maximum

15maximum

sill

doordripsection low profile (15mm maximum height)

sill section and seal

15mmmaximum

doordripsection low profile (15mm maximum height)

sill section and seal

proprietarydrainagechannel

levelapproachto threshold

sill structural floor

floor finish15mm maximum

5mm maximum


25/30

25

Section 8 Circulation within a dwelling

8.1 In a dwelling, disabled people shall haveaccess from the principal entrance (or analternative entrance) to all habitable rooms andto a sanitary convenience in the entrancestorey. However, where there are no habitablerooms in the entrance storey, disabled peopleshall have access to all habitable rooms and toa sanitary convenience in the principal storey.

Horizontal circulation

Widths of circulation routes anddoorways

8.2 The widths of circulation routes anddoorways are interrelated and depend on thedirection of approach of a wheelchair. Table 8.1

gives the minimum widths of circulation routesfor a range of doorway widths and directions ofapproach.

8.3 The width of a circulation route may bereduced to 750 mm at a local permanentobstruction or projection provided that theobstruction or projection is not greater than2000 mm in length and is not located

(a) opposite a door to a room; or

(b) where it would prevent a wheelchair userturning into or out of a room.

See Diagram 8.1.

Vertical circulation

Stairs

8.4 Where the circulation route within theentrance storey or the access to the circulationroute within the principal storey includes astair, the stair shall

(a) have an unobstructed width of not less than900 mm;

(b) have a suitable continuous handrail oneach side of the flight and any intermediatelanding; and

(c) comply with the relevant provisions ofTechnical Booklet H.

Table 8.1 Minimum widths ofcirculation routes

Clear opening of Direction of Minimum widthdoorway (mm) approach of circulation

route (mm)

750 head-on 900

750 not head-on 1200


800 not head-on 900

Diagram 8.1 Obstructions incirculation routes

see para 8.3

2000mm maximum

750mm minimum

minimum widthof circulation routessee Table 8.1

no obstructionopposite door

clear openingof doorway


26/30

26

Section 9 Common stairs and passengerlifts in a block of dwellings

9.1 This Section deals with access within thecommon areas of a block of dwellings e.g.flats, and contains provisions for horizontal andvertical circulation.

Common areas are the circulation routes usedby the occupants of the dwellings and includethe entrance halls, corridors, lobbies, stairs andlifts.

9.2 Access for disabled people shall beprovided from the common entrance of theblock of dwellings to the principal entrance ofeach dwelling.

Horizontal circulation

9.3 A horizontal circulation route within acommon area shall be level or ramped andhave an unobstructed width of not less than1200 mm.

Where a handrail is provided, the width athandrail level may be reduced to not less than1000 mm.

Where the circulation route contains a ramp,

the ramp shall

(a) not exceed


(ii) 5 m in length where the slope of theramp does not exceed 1 in 12;

(b) have landings with an unobstructed lengthof not less than 1200 mm; and

(c) have a suitable continuous handrail oneach side if the horizontal length of the ramp ismore than 2000 mm.

Vertical circulation

9.4 A vertical circulation route to any storeyshall be provided by a common stair andwhere a lift is provided, by a suitablepassenger lift.

Common stairs

9.5 A common stair shall have

(a) step nosings which are distinguishablethrough permanent contrasting brightness;

(b) an unobstructed width of not less than1000 mm;

(c) steps with a uniform rise of not more than170 mm;

(d) steps with a uniform going of not less than250 mm (which, in the case of tapered treads

shall be measured at a point 270 mm from thenarrow end);

(e) rises which are not open and have asuitable profile such that the risk of tripping isreduced, (see Diagram 9.1(b));

(f) landings with an unobstructed length of notless than 1200 mm clear of any door swingonto them; and

(g) a suitable continuous handrail on each side

and the handrail shall extend not less than 300mm horizontally beyond the top and bottomnosings.

See Diagram 9.1.

9.6 Where a passenger lift is provided acommon stair need only comply with (a) and(g) of paragraph 9.5.

Passenger lifts

9.7 A passenger lift shall

(a) have a door or doors which provide a clearopening width of not less than 800 mm;

(b) have a car with a width of not less than 900mm and a depth not less than 1250 mmmeasured internally;

(c) have controls which are not less than 900mm or more than 1200 mm above the floor ofthe car and are not less than 400 mmhorizontally from the front wall of the car;


27/30

27

(d) where it serves more than three storeyshave visual and audible indications of the floorreached;

(e) incorporate a signalling system which gives5 seconds notification that the lift is answeringa landing call, and a dwell time of 5 secondsbefore its doors begin to close after they arefully open. The dwell time may be reduced to 3seconds where the door closing system isoverridden by a door re-activating device whichrelies on photo-electric or infra-red methods,but not a door edge pressure system;

(f) have a landing on each storey with

(i) an unobstructed length and width of notless than 1500 mm in front of the door tothe lift; and

(ii) lift call buttons which are not less than900 mm or more than 1200 mm above thefloor level of the landing and areaccompanied by suitable tactileindications (on or adjacent to the buttons)to identify the storey and direction oftravel; and

(g) have a minimum load capacity of 400 kg.

Many of the above features are shown inDiagram 3.4.

Diagram 9.1 A common stair in a block of dwellings

see para 9.5

300mmminimum

1000mm

900mm

250mmminimumgoing

(a) common stair and handrails

170mmmaximumrise

300mmminimum

1000mm

(b) examples of suitabletread nosing profiles

15 25mm

15 25mm

60minimum


28/30

28

Section 10 Sanitary convenience in adwelling

10.1 A water closet shall be located so as tohave a clear space of not less than 900 mm by750 mm for a disabled person to access it (seeDiagrams 10.1 and 10.2). The wash-handbasin may project into this clear spaceprovided that it does not impede access to thewater closet.

10.2 For frontal access to the water closet theclear space shall be centred on the watercloset as shown in Diagram 10.1.

For oblique access to the water closet the clearspace shall be offset towards the access asshown in Diagram 10.2.

10.3 A doorway providing access to thesanitary convenience shall

(a) be positioned to enable a wheelchair userto access the clear space in front of the watercloset;

(b) have a clear opening width of not less thanthat given in Table 10.1; and

(c) where there is oblique access, be located

so that its edge is not in front of, or 250 mmbehind, the water closet, unless there isadequate space within the room to manoeuvrea wheelchair.

10.4 The door shall

(a) open outwards; or

(b) not impinge at any point of its swing uponthe clear space.

C of WC

Diagram 10.1 Clear space for frontalaccess to the watercloset


450mm minimum

750mmminimum

450mm minimum

to enable transfer,the wheelchairshall be able to

approach within400mm of thefront of the WC

clear space of notless than 900mm

by 750mm

C of WC

Diagram 10.2 Clear space for oblique

access to the watercloset


750mmminimum

maximum 250mmto edge of clearopening of doorway

500mmminimum

400mmminimum

clear space ofnot less than900mm by

750mm

Table 10.1 Clear opening widths ofdoorways

Minimum width of Direction of Clear openingcirculation route approach of doorway(mm) (mm)

900 head-on 750



900 not head-on 800


29/30

29

Section 11 Heights of switches, socketoutlets etc. in a dwelling

General

11.1 Wall mounted socket outlets and switches(other than isolators) in the entrance storey,and where appropriate the principal storey,shall be located not more than 1200 mm or notless than 450 mm above the floor level.

See Diagram 11.1.

11.2 The cord of a pull cord switch shallterminate not more than 1200 mm above thefloor level.

See Diagram 11.1.


pull cordswitch

doorbells,entry phone

450mmminimum

switches

sockets, TV sockets, telephonejack points

Diagram 11.1 Heights of switches and socket outlets

1200mmmaximum


30/30

Appendix Publications referred to

BS 4787: Internal and external wood doorsets,door leaves and frames.

Part 1:1980 (1985) Specification fordimensional requirements.AMD 4737, November 1984AMD 8721, June 1995AMD 8963, December 1995

BS 6440:1999 Power lifting platforms for useby disabled persons. Code of practice.

DOE Technical Booklet E: 1994 Fire safety.

AMD 1, December 1998AMD 2, December 2000

DFP Technical Booklet H: 2000 Stairs,ramps, guarding and protection from impact.

access for disabled

Documents