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Access ib i l i t yBy Design

A S tandard Guide2010 vers ion

A LABC Publishing Publication

HertfordshireLocal Authority Building Control

GrangeHSE

Health & SafetyConsultants

• HAZID and ENVID Studies Facilitation• Work and Task Risk Assessments• Method Statements• Crisis Management and Training• HSE Procedures and Standards

23 Ramblers Way, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire L7 2JU

Tel: 01707 395363 Fax: 01707 393708Email: [email protected]

MJH Flooring Ltd01923 689233

www.mjhflooring.comMJH Flooring Ltd is a Professional FlooringContractor based in Watford, Hertfordshire. We have over 16 years experience in many sectors including; Retail, Sports & Leisure,Education, Social Housing, Healthcare,Construction Industry, Residential (Domestic),Offices/Warehouse, Residential (Commercial),Wet Rooms and Catering. At MJH Flooring youcan be assured that all Manufacturer guidelinesare followed and that we also adhere to a stricthealth and safety policy. We pride ourselves onproviding complete flooring solutions for anyproject or budget and that all our work is carriedout to an exceptional standard.

MJH Flooring provide a supply & fit, supply onlyor fit only service on the full flooring rangeincluding:

• Non slip / Safety flooring (Altro

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• Vinyl Tiles / Sheet

• Entrance matting systems

• Anti slip stair treads / Nosings

• And many more.

GRADE 1 METALWORKS

(GARY PARKINSON) LTD

MILE NURSERY, CROOKED MILE,

WALTHAM ABBEY

ESSEX EN9 2ER

Office: 01992 763091 Mobile: 07903 562379

Fax: 0700 6031103

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.grade1metalworks.com

• Architectural and Structural Steelwork

• Steels for Loft Conversions

• Staircases

• Railings and Gates

Please telephone for a free quotation.

R.K.ASERVICES (UK) LTD

WINDOW CONTROL SPECIALISTS

Unit 7c, Fen End,Astwick Road,

Stotfold, Bedfordshire SG5 4BA

Tel: 01462 733598Fax: 01462 733597


JOHN HOWARD PENTON MBE, MA, BA, AADipl, RIBA, RIAS, FRSA

Chartered Architect and Designer,Consultant : National Register of Access Consultants

RIBA Registered Client Design Advisor

14 Boundary Road, St.Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 4EF, UK

Tel: 01727 852100 / Fax: 01727 833429Email: [email protected]

Access Audits

Accessibility Reports

Accessibility Statements; Advice re.Listed Buildings, PFI Proposals, detailed

design & management, Expert

Witness (evidence in Court),

Clients inc. Cathedrals, Churches, NHS Trusts,Local Authorities, Offices, Universities,

Public Buildings

Author : ‘Inclusion” ( RIBA ), ‘Widening the Eye of the Needle. ( C.C.C.)

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• Expert knowledge and design service

• Huge portfolio of drives, patios and walling available

• Outstanding customer service

• Installed to Government endorsed standards

• Established for 16 years

• Quality assured

• Competitive prices

• Free no obligation quotation and advice - no pressure sales!

Tel: 0800 112 3920 or 01438 720583 www.hertfordshiredriveways.com

We are a company established over 20 years, with a workforce largeenough to cope with larger projects such as multiple house builds formajor house builders, but also small enough to care about customer satisfaction on all projects undertaken.

We cover everything from small garden walls, patios, porches, renovationwork up to the larger house builds. All construction trades are covered byfully qualified, conscientious tradesmen.

We are able to supply references for previous work and have full publicliability insurance. Free no obligation quotes can be provided.

Over the years we have been able to increase the services we can offer tobe able to include:

C. MILLSConstruction

Letchworth Garden CityHertfordshire

Tel: 01462 634552 Mob: 0782 805 5010E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.cmillsconstruction.co.uk

Please feel free to contact us if you require further information regardingany of the above services.

• Ground works • Brickwork• Plumbing• Glazing

• Plastering

• Block paving• Carpentry• Electrical• Roofing

• Landscaping

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Our company is based on the belief that our customers'needs are of the utmost importance. All our contractors arecommitted to meeting those needs. As a result, a high percentage of our business is from repeat customers and referrals.We would welcome the opportunity to earn your trust anddeliver you the best service in the industry.

Let's discuss your ideas! Your free consultation is just aphone call away.

Tel: 01582 760995Email: [email protected]

134 Southdown Road, Harpenden, Herts AL51 1PU

www.hertsfinaltouch.co.uk

ServicesAsbestos RemovalBathroom FittersBlind FittersBricklayersCarpenter/JoinersConservatory BuilderLoft Conversion SpecialistGarage ConversionDriveway SpecialistsElectriciansGeneral Builders

FencersFlooring & Carpet FittersHeating & Cooling EngineersKitchen FittersLandscape GardenersPainter & DecoratorsPlasterer & RenderersPlumbersRoofersTilersWindow & Door Fitters

Home Cladding Services

Window Frames & Accessory

Manufacturers/Cladding

The Moultings, Roydon Road,

Stanstead Abbotts,Hertfordshire SG12 8HG

Tel: 07967 086721Fax: 01992 442812

We undertake all types of work, ranging from restoration works on listed buildings, domestic extensions and refurbishments through to new buildsand commercial works for schools and churches. When required on large projects we work closely withArchitects carefully and accurately following their plansand specifications.

We are members of the National House BuildingCouncil (NHBC) and the National Register of WarrantedBuilders (Federation of Master Builders). We have anannual turnover in excess of £1 million and we haveapproximately 25 employees on average, including sub-contractors, who are highly-skilled, qualified andcompetent in their trades. This enables ShepherdBuilders to confidently undertake works across the fullspectrum of building services.

Telephone: 01582 840 487Nobby Shepherd Mobile: 07831 110 002Fax: 01582 841 715www.shepherdbuilders.comE-mail: [email protected]

12 Trowley Hill Road, Flamstead, St. Albans, Herts AL3 8EE

SHEPHERD BUILDERS(FLAMSTEAD) LTD.

ConsultancyDesign

Landscape GardeningGrass and Lawns

Supply and Installation of FencesTree Work Undertaken

Paving/PathwaysExternal Maintenance

Working with Borras Construction, RiversmeadHousing Association, Circle Anglia, EnvironmentAgency, MC Plumbing, Royal Horticultural Society

Steven [email protected]: 01992 504167Mobile: 07870 576464Web: www.gardenbarberltd.co.uk

Foreword

Designed and published byTen Alps Publishing

Trelawney House, ChestergateMacclesfield, CheshireSK11 6DWwww.tenalpspublishing.com Tel: 01625 613000Also available as an ebook:www.accessibilitybydesign.co.uk/hertfordshire

Ref: BQT (October 2009)

This design guide seeks to present therequirements of the Building Regulations 2000, the Building Regulations (Amendment) 2003 and Approved Document M Access to and Use of Buildings (2004 edition) in terms of goodbuilding design.

This guide does not encompass every aspect or have all the answers, but covers the maindesign considerations. We hope this guide willprove especially useful as a practical introduction to provide a better understanding of whataccessibility means.

Whilst every care has been taken to compile theinformation in this guide, the publishers andpromoters cannot accept any responsibility forincorrect information. Building Regulations aresubject to change and if in doubt you shouldcontact your Local Authority Building Control officeto check if the information is still current.

The Councils gratefully acknowledge LABC andRIBA Publications for permission to reproduce theirmaterial in this publication.

© Crown Copyright 1991Reproduced with the permission of the controllerof TSO.

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Specialists in:Driveways • Paving • Decking • GazebosLighting • Water Features • Exotic Plants

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• General Building

• Extensions & Refurbishments

• Loft Conversions

• Hard Landscaping

• Conservatories

• Free Quotations

Tel/Fax: 01727 867215

Email:[email protected]

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ContentsAccessibility by Design … A Standard Guide

INTRODUCING HERTFORDSHIRE .................................................... 09WHAT IS BUILDING CONTROL? ......................................................... 10HERTFORDSHIRE BUILDING CONTROL CONTACTS ..................................................................................... 11THE DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION ACT (DDA) 1995 ......................................................................................................... 12ACCESS STATEMENTS ...................................................................................... 13ACCESS TO BUILDINGS ................................................................................. 19Car Parking Spaces ........................................................................................................... 19External Travel ..................................................................................................................... 21External Hazards ............................................................................................................... 22Approach to the Building ........................................................................................... 23Stepped Access ................................................................................................................... 24Accessible Entrances ...................................................................................................... 26ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGS .................................................................. 29Entrance Lobbies .............................................................................................................. 29Entrance Hall and Reception Area ................................................................... 30Internal Doors ..................................................................................................................... 31Corridors and Passageways .................................................................................... 32Internal Stairs ........................................................................................................................ 33Vertical Circulation within the Building ......................................................... 34Guide to the Provision of Lifts .............................................................................. 37

MEANS OF ESCAPE ............................................................................................... 39Means of Escape/Egress .................................................................................................. 39

FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS ................................................................................................ 43Audience and Spectator Facilities ....................................................................... 43Refreshment Facilities .................................................................................................... 45Sleeping Accommodation ......................................................................................... 46Switches, Outlets and Controls .......................................................................... 47Sanitary Conveniences ................................................................................................ 48Wheelchair Accessible Changing and Shower Facilities ............... 51Wheelchair Accessible Bathrooms ................................................................... 53Design Considerations for Sensory Impairments ............................... 55DWELLINGS ..................................................................................................................... 59Accessibility ............................................................................................................................. 59Circulation ............................................................................................................................... 60WCs within Dwellings ................................................................................................. 61INTERIOR ERGONOMICS .............................................................................. 63Signs and Symbols ............................................................................................................ 63Anthropometric Data .................................................................................................... 64Ergonomic Data ................................................................................................................. 68LEGISLATION AND BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................. 70USEFUL CONTACTS ............................................................................................. 71

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INTRODUCINGHERTFORDSHIRE

Hertfordshire, located near enough to the capitalto become the hunting ground of kings, boastsseveral fine houses of which Hatfield House isthe greatest. The county lies to the north ofLondon and takes in much of the catchmentareas of the Rivers Colne and Lea. It extendsfrom the Colne and the Grand Union canal inthe west to the Lea and Stort Navigation in theeast. Towards the north of the county lie theextremities of the Chiltern Hills and the EastAnglian Heights.

The county has always relied upon agriculture,particularly wheat and barley, incorporating themalting industry with market gardening to theeast. Its proximity to London has provided aready market for the produce with the ease ofcommunication through the relatively levelcountryside. In more recent times considerablecommercial and industrial activity has moved intothe county.

Ancient pathways along the higher ground suchas the Icknield Way were complemented by theRomans with their radiating routes from London.The Ermine Street passes through Ware on itsway to Lincoln and York while the Watling Streetpasses through St. Albans before eventuallyreaching Holyhead. Today the M25, M1 andA1(M) motorways pass through the county, whilenumerous electrified railways perpetuate theradial routes created by the Romans.

Towns such as St. Albans, Hertford, Waltham andRoyston were significant in Roman times, but withthe more recent population explosion came theneed for the construction of new towns. Gardencities of Welwyn and Letchworth owe much oftheir character to the Architect who laid outtheir town plans, with much importance placedon grassed areas and roadside trees. Morerecently the new towns of Stevenage and HemelHempstead were expanded to accommodateincreasing demands for housing within the county.

Local Authority AreasHertfordshire is divided into ten local authorityareas, each with its own individuality. In order toachieve a unified approach to Building Control,the managers of the ten areas jointly arrangeseminars for their staff. In this way an excellentservice can be provided with similarinterpretations of the regulations in those areas.

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What is Building Control?

The History of Building Control

Building Control origins lie in the rebuilding ofLondon following the Great Fire in 1666. In rebuilding the city, the building work wascontrolled to prevent a recurrence of thisdisaster. However, it was not until the PublicHealth Act of 1875 that any control wasextended to the rest of the country throughbuilding bylaws.

Today these controls are known as the buildingregulations. They have been developed toincorporate aspects of building such as structuralstability, waterproofing, sound and thermalinsulation, drainage, ventilation and hygiene,stairways, access to and use of buildings for allpersons, glazing and electrical installations.

The regulations are concise and offer littleguidance to the builder or designer. The Approved Documents provide the detail, andin conjunction with national and Europeanstandards, they show how to comply with therequirements of the regulations.

Building Control Approval and Planning Permission

These two services, provided by your LocalAuthority, are closely linked, and yet are verydifferent; often resulting in confusion. If you intendto undertake any building work, whetherconstructing a new building or extension, alteringan existing building or installing a controlledservice or fitting, you are almost certainlyrequired to notify your Local Authority.Adaptations to dwellings or public buildings whichare for the sole benefit of people with disabilitiesare exempt from Building Regulation fees.

Sometimes you will need to satisfy both BuildingControl and Planning, sometimes only one ofthem, and on other occasions the work may beexempt from the need to comply with either. If you have any doubts, please check bycontacting your local Building Control or Planning sections.

WHAT IS BUILDING CONTROL?

HERTFORDSHIRE BUILDING CONTROL CONTACTS

Broxbourne ...............................................01992 785566

Dacorum ......................................................01442 228000

East Hertfordshire..............................01279 655261

Hertsmere ................................................020 8207 2277

North Hertfordshire ........................01462 476370

St. Albans .....................................................01727 866100

Stevenage ....................................................01438 242264

Three Rivers .............................................01923 727134

Watford.........................................................01923 278303

Welwyn Hatfield...................................01707 357391

To help us work more effectively with designers and developers, the Herts Technical Forum produce anumber of publications that are free of charge that explain what the Regulations require.

These include general basic advice through to technical solutions and design guides for the moretechnically minded customers.

If you wish to find out more about Building Control in your area, please contact us below.

We look forward to working with you.

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2423

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A10

A507A600

A505

A1(M) A602

A119

A10

A414

A1170

A10

A414

A1184

M11

A120

A1081

A5183

M1

A414M10

A5183M1

M25

A412

A41

A41

A4146A4251

M25

NORTHHERTFORDSHIRE

EASTHERTFORDSHIRE

STEVENAGE

WELWYN

HATFIELD

ST ALBANS

HERTSMERE

DACORUM

THREERIVERS W

ATFO

RD

BROXBOURNE

Hitchin

LetchworthBaldock

A1

Royston

Stevenage

BishopsStortford

SawbridgeworthWare

Hoddesdon

Hertford

CheshuntPottersBar

A1000

Hatfield

WelwynGardenCity

Harpenden

St Albans

Borehamwood

Tring

BerkhamstedHemel

Hempstead

Watford

Rickmansworth

A505

N

0 10 miles

© Crown copyright / Ten Alps Publishing

25 Motorway

Main Road

Borough / District Boundary

County Boundary

Junction

LOCAL AUTHORITIES INHERTFORDSHIRE

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The DDA creates rights for any individual, definedby the Act as a disabled person, not to bediscriminated against in:

● Employment

● Provision of goods, facilities and services

● The management, buying or renting of land orproperty

● Education and training

● Provision of transport

The original provisions on education in schools,colleges and universities were significantly amendedby the Special Educational Needs and DisabilityRights Act 2001, which have become Part lV of theDDA. All training provision is already covered byPart lll of the DDA.

From December 1996, employers have had tomake reasonable adjustments for employees, basedupon their specific requirements and the nature ofthe job. This includes adjustments to policies,procedures and practices and to buildings and theenvironment.

From October 1999, all service providers,including community and voluntary organisationsproviding any service to the public, includinginformation, advice, training and the involvement ofmembers and volunteers, should be makingreasonable adjustments to all policies, proceduresand practices to make their services accessible. Thisapplies to all sizes of service providers andorganisations.

From October 2004, reasonable adjustments toall their buildings and the environment. However,the DDA does not overrule other legislation, forexample, such as planning or historic/listed buildingsor conservation legislation. Service providers arenot required to make changes which areimpractical or beyond their means.

The Disability DiscriminationAct 2005The Act was amended and extended in 2005. For full details contact the Disability RightsCommission (see contacts page).

THE DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION ACT (DDA) 1995

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ACCESS STATEMENTS

An Access Statement is an explanation of ‘howaccess and facilities for people with disabilities andothers has been addressed in a particular scheme’.

The statement will allow Building ControlSurveyors to assess whether reasonable and/orsuitable provision has been achieved. Thestatement will vary in size dependent on the typeand scale of the development but should generallyinclude the following elements wherever relevant:

● Description of proposed works and theintended use of the building

● Access design philosophy on the scheme

● Sources of advice and guidance

● Evidence of any consultation with the Council’sAccess Officer or the Local Access Group

● Description of the building

● Key issues of the scheme

● Current access provisions

● Proposed areas for improvement

● Areas not proposed for improvement and/orreasons why an alternative approach hasbeen adopted

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DAVIK BUILDERS LTD• Conservation building

• Listed buildings

• Renovations

• Alterations

• Extensions

Over 25 years in Harpenden

All work guaranteed

Customer references available

47, CRABTREE LANE, HARPENDEN, HERTS, AL5 5NT

T: (01582)712623 F:(01582)712627 E: [email protected]

Domilo Builders Ltd

Tel: 01462 815222


9 Birch Grove, Lower Stondon,

Henlow, Bedfordshire SG16 6EH

When is an Access Statement required?

Applications requiring a full Access Statementinclude new and substantially extended buildings orchanges of use where the intended use is:

● Shops and commercial uses, Restaurants, PublicHouses and Bars, Offices, Banks, PublicBuildings, Leisure, Assembly and Recreationfacilities, Mixed Use developments, Churches,Schools/Colleges, Hotels, Industrial, Storageand General, Listed Buildings etc.

● Residential purposes such as flats, houses andbungalows, nursing or old people’s homes,student accommodation etc.

Applications will not generally require an AccessStatement if the works are for altered or extendeddwellings, i.e. houses, bungalows and flats.Similarly, minor alterations or extensions to otheruses may not require a statement where it canclearly be seen that the accessibility of the buildingis not affected.

Matters for consideration

These include but are not exclusively:● Disabled parking provision or setting down

points or garaging● Approach routes to building – way finding

signage, gradient, width, surface finish● External hazards/features – hard landscaping,

projections, furniture● External steps/ramps – gradient, width,

guarding and heights● Entrances – primary and secondary● Doors – operation, size, level threshold,

automatic, controls

● Entrance lobbies – size, manoeuvrability● Reception – counter height● Aids for hearing impaired people –

induction loop● Visibility of signage – size and contrast for

people with impaired vision● Interpretation and Braille facilities● Internal corridors – widths, obstructions,

gradients● Internal steps/ramps – height, width, guarding,

rise and going● Lifts – size, height of controls● WC accommodation – size, layout, number● Spectator seating – number of spaces, choice

of viewing point, other facilities● Access to special facilities – meeting rooms,

swimming pools, sports equipment, etc.● Usability of the building/facilities – to meet the

DDA● Management arrangements – for assisted

access and means of escape● Special considerations need to be given to

Listed Buildings, development in ConservationAreas and other buildings or spaces of specialinterest.

Ongoing obligations for owners/occupiers

The Access Statement should be amended toreflect any subsequent decisions reached on site sothat any new owner or occupier can be aware ofthe rationale used in making decisions whichimpact on accessibility and their ongoing obligationsunder the DDA. An up to date Access Statementcan form part of the “Seller’s Pack” which will helpto inform future owner/occupiers of the accessprovision in the building.

ACCESS STATEMENTS

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In an attempt to offer some further direction, anAccess Statement Template has been prepared andincorporated purely for guidance.

Access / Egress Statement

Site Address:

Date:

Contact details

Applicant Agent

Name: Name:Address: Address:

Postcode: Postcode:Telephone: Telephone:E Mail: Fax No:

E Mail:

Description of Development

To include description of proposed works. Size of proposed works, building use, number of occupiers,perceived modes of transport etc. This should include the whole site from its boundaries.

Include direct guidance references to key design attributes in relation to:

● Approach● Parking● Entrances● Horizontal circulation

Key access issues of the design

Philosophy and approach

Overview of the developer’s philosophy regarding access for disabled people and inclusive design. This section must include specific examples of individual design processes.

Design standard followed:

Approved Document M (2004):

BS 8300 (2001):

Building Bulletin 91 (Schools)

Sport England (Sports Facilities)

CAE Designing for Accessibility(2004)

CAE Good Loo Design Guide(2004)

Other (Please elaborate)

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● Vertical circulation● Access to services● Emergency egress etc● Position of WC

Sources of advice and consultation

Include references to British Standards

Consultation with planners, conservation officers, access officers etc.

Evidence of consultation with existing/planned building users (where appropriate)

The extent of input from local access groups or local organisations reflecting the views of disabledpeople

Nature and impact of environmental and/or other constraints

Where environmental factors act to constrain compliance with the relevant design guidance, anexplanation of the individual constraints should be included. These may include constraints imposed byan existing structure during an extension, or geographical constraints on new or existing developments.

The responsibility will be on the developer to explain why the relevant design guidance cannot beachieved in any particular situation and to provide material evidence to this effect.

One alternative solution that has been considered should also be described for each instance in whichthe design is felt to deviate from the relevant design guidance.

Proposed solutions for overcoming identified constraints

Where deviation from the relevant design guidance is proposed as a solution of how the relevantbarrier can be reasonably overcome should be explained

What steps have been taken to ensure this information is made available tobuilding occupiers?

Explain the steps taken by designers to ensure the above access philosophy and information particular tothe building is fully integrated into the long term management of the building

Additional material information

Any additional information in support of the proposed development

● For disabled people, car access is vital. In carparks, provision should be made for disableddrivers and cars carrying disabled passengers.Parking should be provided as near to theprincipal entrance as possible and under coveris desirable. If payment is required, providelevel and unobstructed access to pay anddisplay units.

● The surface of a designated parking bay shouldbe firm and level, slip resistant and have a1200mm transfer zone alongside and at therear of the vehicle.

● If people need to obtain tickets for pay anddisplay parking, the ticket dispensing machinesneed to be accessible to wheelchair users andpeople of short stature. They should beadjacent to the designated parking and havecontrols between 750mm and 1200mm fromground level.

● Guidance on designated parking, ticketdispensing machines, vehicular control barriersand multi-storey car parks can be found in BS8300.

● The recommended numbers of reservedspaces vary in accordance with the type andcapacity of car parks as follows:

Car parks associated with employmentpremises and provided for employees andvisitors.

● 5% of the total parking capacity should bedesignated for disabled motorists.

Car parks associated with shopping areas,leisure or recreational facilities.

● One space for each disabled employee plus6% of the total capacity for visiting disabledmotorists.

● Car parking spaces for the disabled should besignposted using the international symbol of thedisabled, which can also be painted on the ground with the legend “Disabled Drivers Only.”

Fig. 1

ACCESS TO BUILDINGS

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Car Parking Spaces

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SJMS J Martindale Site Investigation Services Ltd

Phone: 01442 230850Fax: 01442 235655E-mail: [email protected]

Hayles, Pancake Lane, Leverstock Green, Hemel Hempstead,Hertfordshire HP2 4NJ

SJM Ltd was founded in October 1986 by Simon J Martindale toprovide window sampling and subsidence investigation servicesto consultants and engineers throughout the UK.

SJM found that the techniques they were using also suited environmental consultants and Brownfield investigation. We have been used over the past 15 years by many insurancecompanies, loss adjusters and high profile consultancies andhave expanded our services to include low headroom hollowstem auger drilling, stand-pipe installation, mini piling, soilvapour surveys, dynamic probing and concrete coring alongsidehand dug trial pits and environmental audits.

The number and range of our customers is an excellent indication of our success in offering satisfaction and service atcompetitive rates. We are proud that so many of our customerscome back to us again and again. Our services are regularly used by many large and well known consultancies.

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External Travel

● Routes of travel across grass or paved areasshould be highlighted. This can be achieved bycontrasting colour, texture or by directionalpaving.

● Covers and gratings should be flush withpavings, the maximum gap being 18mm.

● Define footpath edges with either kerb, low railor a surface change.

● Pedestrian crossing points require specialattention.

● Red tactiles should be used at controlledcrossings and buff coloured tactiles atuncontrolled crossings.

● At changes in level and to slopes steeper than1:15 a handrail and kerb should be provided. Alower rail and kerb should be provided as aguide for partially sighted people using canes.

ACCESS TO BUILDINGS

Fig. 2

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

Surface change Low rail Kerb

800

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LANDSCAPE FURNITURE

● The provision of landscape furniture requirescareful thought. It needs to be madedistinguishable from the background, i.e. bycolour contrast and should be detectable at lowlevel for people with impaired vision.

● Avoid overhangs, especially at ground level.

● Guard against building projections by the use of(1) rails, (2) textured surfaces, (3) kerbs andplanting, etc.

DOORS

● Doors which open outwards should not causean obstruction on a path which runs along theface of a building, i.e. recess the doors orprovide suitable guarding.

External HazardsACCESS TO BUILDINGS

Fig. 5 Fig. 7

Fig. 8

Fig. 6

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● There should be a convenient access into thebuilding for disabled people, whether they arevisitors to the building or work in it andwhether they arrive on foot or in a wheelchair.

● If space outside the principal entrance isrestrictive, an alternative accessible entrance incommon use should be provided.

● Car parking spaces should be provided adjacentto the principal entrance or the accessibleentrance in common use.

● Clearly signposted steps should be providedwhen the rise of the ramp exceeds 300mm.The surface of the ramp should be slip resistantand of a colour that contrasts visually with thatof the landings.

Fig. 9 Relationship of ramp gradient to thegoing of a flight

Table 1 Limits for ramp gradients

For further details refer to ApprovedDocument M of the Building Regulations

ACCESS TO BUILDINGSApproach to the Building

Fig. 10

● A corduroy hazard warning surface should beprovided at top and bottom landings of a seriesof flights to give advance warning of a change inlevel.

● Rise of each step should be between 150mmand 170mm.

● Going of each step should be between 280mmand 425mm.

● Rise and going of each step should beconsistent throughout the flight.

● Width of the flight should not be less than 1.2m.

Fig. 11 Stepped access – key dimensions and use of hazard warning surface

For schools the preferred dimensions are 150mm rise and 280mm going

ACCESS TO BUILDINGSStepped Access

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HANDRAILS

● Should be between 900mm and 1000mm above thesurface of the ramp.

● Should be continuous along the flights and landings ofsteps and ramps.

● Should extend at least 300mm beyond the top andbottom of ramps and a flight or flights of steps whilst notprojecting onto an access route.

● Should contrast visually from the background withoutbeing reflective.

● The surface should be slip resistant and not cold to thetouch.

● The profile should be circular with a diameter ofbetween 40mm and 45mm or oval, preferably with adiameter of 50mm.

● Should protrude no more than 100mm into the surfacewidth of ramp orstairs where thiswould impinge onthe stair widthrequirement ofApprovedDocument B(Fire Safety).

● Should have aclearance ofbetween 60mmand 75mmbetween thehandrail and anyadjacent wallsurface.

Fig. 12 External steps and stairs –key dimensions

Fig. 14 Handrail design

Fig. 13 Examples of acceptable stepprofiles and key dimensions forexternal stairs

ACCESS TO BUILDINGSStepped Access

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ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCES

● Should be clearly signposted andshould include the internationalsymbol of access, from the edge ofthe site, and the principal entrance ifthis is not the accessible entrance.(Guidance on sign posting can befound in BS 8300).

● Any structural supports at theentrance should not be a hazard tothe visually impaired.

● Should have a level landing at least1500mm by 1500mm clear of anydoor swings immediately in front ofthe entrance and be of a material thatdoes not impede wheelchair users.

● Door entry systems should beaccessible to deaf and hard of hearingand people who cannot speak. (LEDdisplay) fitted between 750mm and1000mm from floor level.

● The surface of any entrance matting should belevel with the floor and should not impedewheelchair movement. Avoid coir matting, andchanges in floor surfaces which are potentialtrip hazards.

DOORS TO ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCES

● Entrance doors can be manually operated, orpower operated under manual or automaticcontrol.

● Vision panels should comply with the minimumzone of visibility of between 500mm and1500mm from floor level, if necessaryinterrupted between 800mm and 1150mmfrom floor level to accommodate a horizontalgrab-rail.

MANUALLY OPERATED NON-POWEREDENTRANCE DOORS

● A non-powered door fitted with a self-closingdevice capable of closing the door against windforces and the resistance of draught seals isunlikely to be openable by a wheelchair user orsomeone with limited strength.

● The opening force at the leading edge shouldbe no greater than 20N.

It should be noted that double buggies arewider than wheelchairs and this should beborne in mind when designing certain typesof buildings.

Table 2 Minimum effective clear widths of doors

ACCESS TO BUILDINGSAccessible Entrances

26

ACCESS TO BUILDINGSAccessible Entrances

POWERED ENTRANCE DOORS

● Manual control for powered entrance doorsshould be clearly distinguishable from thebackground, and located between 750mm and1000mm from the ground level (to includeswipe cards etc).

● Where the doors swing towards peopleapproaching them visual and audible warningsshould be provided. They should incorporate asafety stop if someone is passing through andrevert to manual control or stay open in apower failure.

GLASS ENTRANCE DOORS AND GLAZEDSCREENS

● Should be clearly defined with manifestation onthe glass at two levels 850mm to 1000mm and1400mm to 1600mm. Manifestation is a sign ora logo at least 150mm high.

● Consideration should be given to ensureadequate contrast for partially sighted people fortheir safe passage into and around the building.Refer to section on contrast under DesignConsiderations for Sensory Impairments.

Fig. 15 Effective clear width and visibility requirements of doors

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ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGSEntrance Lobbies

● Where entrance lobbies are incorporated inbuildings, adequate space must be providedbetween doors. There should also be space forsomeone assisting the wheelchair user and forsomeone passing in the opposite direction.

● Thresholds should be flush, 15mm maximum,at both doorsets.

● Mat wells should be flush (including thesurrounds), firm and contrast with the floor.

● The door opening widths should apply to theinner doors as well as the outer doors.

● Lighting to reduce the contrast between theoutside and the building’s interior should beconsidered.

● The floor surface should be level, slip resistantand not impede the movement of wheelchairsor crutch users. Avoid coir matting and ensureany changes in floor materials do not createpotential trip hazards.

Fig. 16 Key dimensions for lobbies with single leaf doors

ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGSEntrance Hall and Reception Area

● Any reception point should be easily identifiablefrom the entrance doors or lobby and have adirect approach and be free from obstructions.

● Should be designed to accommodate bothseating and standing visitors. At least onesection of the counter should be at least1500mm wide, no higher than 760mm with a knee recess not less than 700mm from floor level.

● Reception points should be provided with ahearing enhancement system.

Guidance on aids to communication can befound in BS 8300

Reception desk showing lowered sectionfor wheelchair users

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● The force needed to open the door manuallyshould not exceed 20N.

● Doors should contrast with the adjacentfacades, as should be ironmongery (i.e. pullhandles) from the actual door itself.

● Lever handles are preferable to knob sets.

● Doors should have a zone of visibility between500mm and 1500mm from the floor, ifnecessary interrupted between 800mm and1150mm from the floor, to accommodate anintermediate horizontal rail.

● Incorporate low-level protection fromwheelchairs. Thresholds should be level withadjacent floor finishes.

● Fire doors particularly those in corridors shouldbe held open with an electro-magnetic device,but self-close when:

■ Activated by a smoke alarm or fire alarm

■ Power supply fails

■ Activated by a hand operated switch.

● Fire doors to individual rooms should be fittedwith swing-free devices that close whenactivated by smoke detectors, fire alarms andpower failure.

For guidance on fire doors and self-closerssee Approved document M and BS 8300

Design considerations similar to those for entrance doors apply to internal door sRefer to Table 2 and Fig. 15.

ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGSInternal Doors

Fig. 17

ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGSCorridors and Passageways

● In locations required to be accessible towheelchair users, corridors and passagewaysneed to be wide enough to allow forwheelchair manoeuvre and for other people to pass.

● Elements such as columns, radiators and firehoses should not protrude into the corridor, orwhere this is unavoidable a means of directingpeople around them, such as a visuallycontrasting guardrail should be provided.

● Unobstructed width should be at least1200mm excluding any projections into thecorridor.

● Where the unobstructed width of the corridoris less than 1800mm, passing places should beat least 1800mm long and 1800mm wide atreasonable intervals to allow wheelchairs topass at corridor junctions and similar.

● A floor is classed as level if the gradient is nosteeper than 1:60.

● Corridors of gradient between 1:20 and 1:60should have rise no more than 500mm withouta level rest area at least 1500mm long.

● If the corridor is 1:20 or steeper, refer to rampdetails.

● Any door opening towards a corridor which isa major access route, should be recessed sothat when fully open it does not project intothe corridor.

● On a major access or escape route the widerleaf of a series of double doors with leaves ofunequal widths is on the same side along thelength of the corridor.

● Floor finishes should be slip resistant.

● Glass screens should have suitablemanifestation.

Shaded areas show required unobstructed space requirements forapproaching doors. All dimensions are clear widths.

Fig. 18

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Guidance as for stepped access except:

● It is not reasonable to require a hazard warningsurface at the head of internal stairs (since thereis no recognised warning surface for useinternally, which can be guaranteed not toconstitute a trip hazard when used alongsideflooring surfaces with different frictionalresistance characteristics).

● A flight between landings normally contains nomore than 12 risers, but in very exceptionalcircumstances 16 risers in small premises maybe provided where the plan area is restricted.

● The rise of each step should be between150mm and 170mm.

● The going of each step should be at least250mm.

● The provision for handrails is the same as forstepped access.

● Landings should be of an adequate size to allowpersons to rest between flights whilst notcausing obstruction to other people (the widthand length should be as great as the smallestwidth of the flight).

● Landings should be clear of permanentobstructions.

Fig. 19 Internal stairs – key dimensions

ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGSInternal Stairs

A passenger lift is the most suitable meansof vertical access and should be providedwherever possible.

However given the space constraints in somebuildings it may not always be possible to provide afull passenger lift.

● Signs indicating the location of a lifting deviceaccessible by mobility-impaired people shouldbe clearly visible from the building entrance.Additionally a sign indicating the floor reachedshould be provided on each landing that caneasily be seen from the lifting device and isvisually contrasting.

● Whatever lifting device is chosen, internal stairs should always be provided, designed tosuit the ambulant disabled and the visuallyimpaired.

Provision of Lifting Devices

● New developments should have a fullpassenger lift serving all storeys.

● For new developments where due to siteconstraints a full passenger lift cannot beprovided, a lifting platform may be acceptable.

● Existing buildings may in exceptionalcircumstances have a wheelchair platformstairlift.

Passenger Lifts

● Minimum dimensions of the car should be1100mm wide and 1400mm deep.

● For a lift that does not have room for awheelchair user to turn around, a mirrorshould be provided to allow the user to seethe space behind the wheelchair.

● Power operated sliding doors should provide aminimum clear opening of 800mm and befitted with timing and re-opening activators toallow time for people and assistance dogs toenter or exit.

● Controls should be located between 900mmand 1200mm from the car floor and be at least400mm from any return wall.

● Landing call buttons should belocated between 900mm and1100mm from the floor and atleast 500mm from any returnwall.

● Lift landing and car doors shouldcontrast visually from adjoiningwalls.

● Audible and visual indication of liftarrival and location should beprovided in the lift car and liftlobby. If the lift is to be used inan emergency it should conformwith the relevantrecommendations of BS 5588part 8 (Code of Practice forMeans of Escape for DisabledPeople).

Fig. 20 Key dimensions associated with passenger lifts

ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGSVertical Circulation within the Building

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Vertical Circulation within the Building

Lifting Platforms

● Vertical travel distance should be no more than 2mwhere there is no liftway enclosure and no floorpenetration.

● Controls should be located between 800mm and1100mm from the floor of the lifting platform andbe at least 400mm from any return wall.

● Continuous pressure controls should be provided,with landing call buttons the same as for a passengerlift.

Minimum dimensions should be

● 800mm wide and 1250mm wide where theplatform is not enclosed and provision is being madefor an unaccompanied wheelchair user.

● 900mm wide and 1400mm deep if the platform isenclosed and provision is made for unaccompaniedwheelchair users.

● 1100mm wide and 1400mm deep where twodoors are located at 90 degrees relative to eachother and where the platform is enclosed, or whereprovision is made for unaccompanied wheelchairusers.

● Doors should have clear opening of 900mm for a100mm x 1400mm platform and 800mm clearopening in other cases. Audio and visualannouncements should be provided for platformarrival and location indication.

Wheelchair Platform Lifts

● In a building with a single stairway required width formeans of escape should be maintained when theplatform is in the parked position (see ApprovedDocument B).

● Continuous pressure controls should be provided.The minimum dimensions are 800mm wide and1250mm deep.

● Access with an effective clear width of at least800mm should be provided.

ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGS

Fig. 21

Fig. 22

It is clearly the intention of Part M of the BuildingRegulations to make as much of the builtenvironment as possible accessible to all.Therefore, the provision of lifts must be seen asthe obvious solution for vertical travel.

As there is no floor area rule to be guided by, it isimportant to recognise that whilst the provision of apassenger lift (or, in certain situations a liftingplatform) is the preferred option, each applicationshould be looked at individually, as each situationwill differ in some way.

This is why the concept of Access Statements hasbeen introduced. It is an opportunity for a designerto give a reasoned argument as to why fullcompliance is not possible in a particular case orwhere new technologies or alternative solutionsare to be used. The obligations of employers andservice providers under the DDA should bepointed out to designers wishing to submit AccessStatements.

In new buildings, it is hoped that designers will nottry to put forward an argument for not fullycomplying. It is more likely that problems in makinga building fully accessible will be put forward for anexisting building. This is why, whilst ascertainingwhat is reasonable in the circumstances of eachcase must be looked at, it must be rememberedthat it is the intention of the Building Regulationsthat all new buildings and existing non-domesticbuildings that are materially altered or extendedare accessible to all.

Inevitably there will be occasions when reducedstandards that are supported by Access Statementswill be considered reasonable. These projects mayrelate to small-scale developments for example,where there may not be adequate space for a fullsize lift, and a platform lift or some otheralternative solution may be suggested.

In such circumstances, consideration should begiven to special design for landings etc. and refugesif necessary.

The government has inferred that it is not theirintention to prevent small development throughthe additional financial burden of providing a lift,but this is a difficult reason to substantiate theacceptance of reduced standards.

When deciding if a scheme is reasonable, the useof the building must be taken into consideration. Ifno public access is required on upper floors and itcan be demonstrated that work activity precludespersons with disability through a reasoned AccessStatement, this may be satisfactory. However,these types of decision cannot be made withoutknowing the building occupier and usage.

Useful checklist of considerations

● Access is to one floor only and the area islimited in comparison with the floor below

● The cost of a passenger lift if the overall projectcost is modest

● Floor space does not contain a unique facility

● Layout of the building, particularly if it is ofhistorical interest

● Means of escape provision may not beachieved due to floor space/layout constraints

● Members of the public are not permitted onthe floor

Remember

Whatever form of access to floors above theground floor is provided, an ambulant disabled stairshould be provided.

The above list is not conclusive, nor is itauthoritative in that in those situations a passengerlift is not required. It merely gives guidance forconsideration of particular situations.

ACCESS WITHIN BUILDINGSGuide to the Provision of Lifts

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MEANS OF ESCAPEMeans of Escape/Egress

This publication deals primarily with access into andaround a building, and the use of facilities withinthe building but the safe evacuation of all potentialusers of the building is also vitally important.

When considering means of escape in case of fire,the ultimate consideration is the amount of time itwill take for a person(s) to travel from a placethreatened by fire to a place of safety.

It is worth noting that disability is not an absolutemeasure of mobility, for instance, evacuation testshave shown that wheelchair users were able toevacuate premises before ambulant people withwalking aids. The wheelchair users did notgenerally impede or impose any delay on the able-bodied people. It was the ambulant person usinga walking frame who was the source of the mostserious impediment to the process of theevacuation.

General

Routes of travel should be free from any obstacleswhich may impede a person with disabilities, e.g.thresholds or steps.

Ramps that are designed as shown on page 19,are suitable for changes in level.

The width of escape routes and exits should besufficient to accommodate the evacuation ofmixed-ability occupancies.

Refuges

Most people with disabilities should be able toreach the safety of a protected escape route, or afinal exit independently due to the limitations oftravel. It is when stairways are encountered thatsome people with disabilities will rely on assistance. It is for this reason a waiting area should be provided in a safe area, so a personrequiring assistance can wait in safety until assisted by a trained colleague or fire rescuepersonnel.

Refuges should be provided for each protectedstairway affording egress from each storey. Therefuge need not be located within the stairenclosure but should enable direct access to the stair.

A refuge should be located in either:

● Protected lobby, or

● Protected corridor, or

● Protected stairway

● A refuge should not encroach into the escapeflow space

● A refuge should have dimensions of at least1400mm x 900mm

● Refuges should be provided for each stairwayon each storey

Fig. 23

Refuge formed in a protected stairway

by Provision where access to the wheelchair spaceis counter to the access flow within the stairway

Wheelchair space

Occupied byescape flow

Escapeflow

LIFTSThere are 3 main types of lift

● Passenger Lift

● Evacuation Lift

● Firefighting Lift

Passenger Lift

Generally to gain access to the upper floors, apassenger lift is required by the BuildingRegulations. These lifts should not be used as ameans of escape in case of fire.

Evacuation Lift

Such lifts are often provided in buildings wherethere is a high proportion of less mobile occupants.For example, retirement homes, hospitals andmodern shopping centres.

Their use in case of emergency should be strictlyto well managed procedures (see page 34).

Features of an evacuation lift include:

● Lift well is a fire protecting structure

● There should be a protected lobby at eachstorey

● There should be a protected route from exitlevel to a final exit

● To override car and landing controls, thereshould be a switch marked “Evacuation Lift” atexit level

● There should be a separate primary electricalsupply, and an alternative secondary supply

Firefighting Lift

Similar in design to an Evacuation Lift but withadditional fittings which are generally to aidfirefighters in their operations. Firefighting liftsshould not be used by occupants of the building in case of fire.

Stairlifts

Stairlifts should not be used in an emergencyevacuation; they should be fitted with a batteryback up system, which will take the lift to theground floor if the power fails.

Evacuation Chairs

Commonly known as Evac Chairs, these are oftenused in office buildings where occupants arefamiliar with evacuation procedures. It is essentialthat operators are fully trained and the use of theevac chairs is integral to the managementprocedures for evacuation in case of emergency.

Fire Alarms

The typical fire alarm consists of a bell or siren.Consideration must be given to alerting occupantswith hearing difficulties.

Audible Alarms

An audible alarm is the most usual way of alertingpeople to an alarm, and is the best way of alertingsomeone with a visual impairment.


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Vibrating Alarms

Vibrating pillow pads are very useful for owners ofhotels, guesthouses, or anywhere that providesaccommodation to alert a hearing impaired personin the event of an alarm. Vibrating pagers are usefulfor office workers. There should also be a visualalarm, so the hearing impaired person realises it isnot just a malfunction of the vibrating alarm.

Visual Alarms

Fire alarms come in several different types thatwarn us of impending danger with horns, sirens,bells, chimes, beeping, and now even voice firealarms. According to whether you are a largebuilding such as a school, or a private home,having some type of fire alarm in the area isessential for saving lives in case of a fire.

A visual alarm is a useful addition to the usual audioalarm system to warn those with hearingimpairments of an emergency.

Management Procedures

It is important that the building management have aprocedure in place, for the safe evacuation ofemployees and visitors including those withdisabilities.

Management procedures, whilst following generalguidelines, are specific to the building, managementstructure, size and occupancy.

Employers should ensure that staff with disabilitiesare fully aware of the emergency evacuationprocedures for the building. Staff with disabilitiesshould also be consulted about what assistancethey may require to exit the building safely in anemergency.

Visitors should also be aware of the evacuationprocedure. Members of staff should be responsiblefor ensuring all visitors are escorted out of thebuilding, or to a place of safety.

Under new Fire Safety legislation, the buildingowners or occupier have a responsibility to carryout a risk assessment of the building. This mustinclude evacuation procedures in case ofemergency.

For further information on this responsibility, pleasecontact your local Fire Service.

Training

An essential part of the management procedures is to ensure all staff, including newmembers of staff, are prepared for an emergencysituation.


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FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS

Audience and Spectator FacilitiesAudience and spectator facilities fall into 3categories

■ Entertainment facilities, eg. Cinemasand theatres

■ Sports Stadiums

■ Lecture & Conference facilities

General

● People with mobility or sensory impairmentsmay need to view from a particular side or sitin the front to lip read or see sign interpreters.

● Care needs to be taken so that poor lighting orvery bright natural light does not make it difficultto see the interpreter.

● Wheelchair users, people who have difficultyusing chairs with fixed arms and those withassistance dogs should have the choice of sittingnext to a seated companion or a companionwheelchair user.

● Consideration should be given to providingspace by certain seats for assistance dogs torest.

● Greater spacing between rows of seats at therear of a block or at the end of rows mayprovide extra legroom for people of largestature.

LECTURE AND CONFERENCE FACILITIES

● Where a podium or stage is providedwheelchair users should have access to it bymeans of a ramp or a lifting platform.

● A hearing enhancement system should beprovided for the hearing impaired.

Guidance on hearing enhancement systemscan be found in BS 8300.

Fig. 24 An example of wheelchair spacesin a lecture theatre

Table 3 Provision of wheelchair spacesin audience seating

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FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGSAudience and Spectator Facilities

Fig. 25 Possible location of wheelchair spaces in front of a rear aisle

Fig. 26 An example of wheelchair space provision in a cinema or theatre

44

All bars and restaurants should bedesigned so all potential customers havefull and independent access.

● In many restaurants, changes in level are usedto differentiate between functions or to createatmosphere.

Changes in level are only allowed if they arefully accessible by a ramp or lifting platform.

● Consideration should be given to the layout oftables and seating to allow the less mobile tonegotiate their route with minimal disturbanceto other patrons.

● Family restaurants in particular should consideradequate spacing for pushchairs and prams.

● Routes to lavatories and fire exits must alwaysbe kept clear of obstructions.

● Part of the bar should be accessible towheelchair users and be no higher than850mm from the floor level.

● Self service and payment points should beaccessible to wheelchair users.

Many offices provide communalrefreshment making facilities for staff. The design and layout should be suitablefor all users.

● Worktops should be accessible and no higherthan 850mm from the floor with a clear spacebeneath at least 700mm above the floor.


Refreshment Facilities

Fig. 27 An example of a sharedrefreshment facility

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Sleeping accommodation where providedfor a significant number of people such ashotels, motels and student accommoda-tion, should be convenient for everyone.

● In student accommodation it is beneficial toprovide a wheelchair accessible toilet for visitors.

This guidance should be followed for allbedrooms:

● Effective clear width of the door from theaccess corridor should comply with Table 2(page 22).

● Swing doors on wardrobes etc should openthrough 180 degrees.

● Handles on hinged and sliding doors should beeasy to grip and operate and contrast visuallyfrom the door.

● All bedrooms should have a visual fire alarmsignal in addition to the requirements ofApproved Document B.

● Room numbers should be indicated inembossed characters.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE BEDROOMS

● At least 1 in 20 bedrooms should bewheelchair accessible.

● The wheelchair accessible bedrooms should belocated to provide a choice of location and beon accessible routes to all the facilities.

● They should be of the same standard as allother bedrooms.

Fig. 28 One example of a wheelchair-accessible hotel bedroom with en-suite sanitaryfacilities

FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGSSleeping Accommodation

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● Wall mounted socket outlets, telephone pointsand television sockets should be locatedbetween 400mm and 1000mm above thefloor with a preference for the lower end ofthe range.

● Switches for permanently wired appliancesshould be located between 400mm and1200mm above the floor.

● All switches and controls that require precisehand movements should be located between750mm and 1200mm above the floor.

● Controls that need close vision should belocated between 1200mm and 1400mm fromthe floor, so readings can be taken from aseated or standing position.

● Sockets should be at least 350mm from anyroom corners.

● Light switches for use by the general publicshould be large push pads and align horizontallywith the door handles within the rangebetween 900mm to 1100mm from the floor.Where this cannot be achieved pull cordsshould be provided in the same height range.

● The front plates of sockets should contrastvisually from the background and have a clearindication that they are ON.

Switches, Outlets and Controls

● The entrance door to the bedroom and to the en suite facility should comply with Table 2 (page 22) and have a maximumopening pressure of 20N.

● En suite facilities should comply with theprovisions for wheelchair accessible bath andshower facilities.

● The size of the room should allow awheelchair user to manoeuvre at the side of the bed and transfer independently.

● An emergency assistance alarm and resetbutton should be located in the bedroom andbe activated by a pull-cord that can beoperated from the bed or the floor.

● Openable windows and window controlsshould be located between 800mm and1000mm above the floor and be easy tooperate without the need to use both handssimultaneously.

● On the outside of the room the call signalshould be easily seen and heard and linked toa central control point.


Sleeping Accommodation

47

UNISEX WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

● Where there is space for only one toilet in abuilding, it must be a unisex wheelchairaccessible toilet but of greater width toaccommodate an additional wash basin atstanding height. At least one unisex wheelchair accessible WC should be locatedwhere toilets are provided for customers,visitors or staff.

● One should be located as close as possible tothe entrance or waiting area of a building andbe located in a similar position on each floor of a multi storey building. There should be right and left handed transfer on alternatefloors.

● If two unisex facilities are provided side by side,left and right hand transfer should beaccommodated.

● Doors should beoutward opening with ahorizontal closing bar onthe inside face.

● A wheelchair user shouldnot have to travel morethan 40m on the samefloor or more than 40mcombined horizontaltravel if the toilet is onanother floor of thebuilding and is accessibleby passenger lift. Inbuildings with a liftingplatform vertical travel tothe toilet should belimited to one storey.

● Heat emitters should bescreened or their surfacetemperature kept below43 degrees centigrade.

● All fittings and grab-railsshould contrast visuallywith the background walland floor finish, andthere should be contrastbetween the walls andfloor.

Fig. 31 Unisex wheelchair-accessible toilet with corner WC

FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGSSanitary Conveniences

48


Sanitary ConveniencesFig. 32 Heights and arrangement of fittings in a unisex wheelchair-accessible toilet(looking towards wall A in Fig. 31)

Fig. 33 Heights of various fittings in toilet accommodation

49

FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGSSanitary ConveniencesGENERAL ADVICE

● At least one cubicle in same sex toilets shouldbe designed for the ambulant disabled, asshown in Fig. 34.

● Where there are four or more cubicles in asame sex toilet one of these should beenlarged for use by people who need extraspace, like parents with young children orpeople with shopping or luggage. Minimumwidth of these toilets should be 1200mm.

Baby change units should wherever possible be provided in these units.

● Taps on baths or wash basins should becontrolled automatically or can be operatedusing a closed fist, eg lever action.

● Door handles and other ironmongery shouldcomply with the provisions for internal doors.

● Doors to WC compartments, and wheelchairaccessible unisex toilets, changing or showerrooms should be fitted with light action privacybolts so they can be operated by people withlimited dexterity. If required to self-close, theyshould be openable with a force no greaterthan 20N.

● Any fire alarm should emit a visual andaudible signal.

● Emergency assistance alarms should have:

■ Visual and audible indicators to confirman emergency call has been received.

■ A signal which is different from the firealarm.

■ A re-set control reachable from thewheelchair or shower or changingseat.

■ Lighting controls to conform with theprovisions for switches and controls.

● Heat emitters are screened or their surfacetemperature is kept below 43 degreescentigrade.

● All fittings and grab-rails should contrast visuallywith the background wall and floor finish andthere should be contrast between the wallsand floor.

Fig. 34 WC cubicle for ambulant disabledpeople

50


Wheelchair Accessible Changingand Shower Facilities

● Where more than one unit is providedprovision for left or right handed transfer shouldbe made.

● Should provide wall mounted drop downsupport rails and wall mounted, slipresistant tip up seats (not spring loaded).

● In sports facilities individual self-containedshower facilities should be provided inaddition to communal separate sexfacilities.

● A shower curtain should be provided thatcovers the seat and rails when in thehorizontal position and can be opened andclosed from the shower seat.

● A shelf that can be reached from the seator wheelchair should be provided fortoiletries.

● An emergency assistance pull cord shouldbe easily identifiable and can be reachedfrom the seat or the floor, the assistancealarm should be as for sanitaryaccommodation.

● Facilities for limb storage should beincluded for the benefit of amputees.

● When associated with shower facilities thefloor should be level and slip resistantwhen dry or wet.

● There should be a manoeuvring space ofat least 1500mm deep in front of lockers.

Fig. 35 An example of a self-contained changingroom for individual use

51

FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGSWheelchair Accessible Changingand Shower Facilities

● Where showers are provided in commercialdevelopments for the benefit of staff, at leastone wheelchair accessible showercompartment should be provided.

● Shower controls in communal showers shouldbe positioned between 750mm and 1000mmabove the floor.

Fig. 36 An example of a self-contained shower room for individual use

52


Wheelchair Accessible BathroomsThis guidance covers wheelchair

accessible bathing facilities in hotels,

motels, student accommodation and

relatives’ accommodation in hospitals.

● A choice of left or right handed transfer shouldbe provided where more than one accessiblebathroom is provided.

● The bath should be provided with a transferseat 400mm deep and equal to the width of a bath.

Fig. 37 An example of a bathroom incorporating a corner WC

53

FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGSWheelchair Accessible Bathrooms

Fig. 38 Grab rails and fittings associated with a bath

● Doors should open outwards and be fitted witha horizontal closing bar fixed to the inside face.

● The room should be fitted with a pull cord andassistance alarm.

54

A high proportion of the population havesensory impairments such as poor sightand hearing loss.

Whilst these impairments are notimmediately visible, they need to beconsidered when designing the internalfinishes and environment, in and aroundbuildings.

CONTRASTTo allow people with visual impairments theopportunity to negotiate their environment, there must be the best possible contrastbetween all surfaces.

Doors ● Door frames to contrast visually with the

door and wall

● Door handles to contrast with the door

● Manifestations on glazed doors to be as perApproved Document M

Lifts● A lift door should contrast visually with the

adjoining wall

● Call buttons should contrast visually withthe surrounding face plate and the face plateshould contrast with the wall on which it’smounted

Changes in Level● The surface of a ramp should contrast visually

with that of the landing

● Nosings to steps and stairs should havecontrasting strips

● Handrails to ramps and stairs from thewall/background

FloorsHigh gloss finishes should be avoided due toproblems with glare and the fact they areperceived as being slippery.

Walls● Contrast skirting to define where the floor

stops and the wall starts

● Consider also a suitable contrast at thejunction between walls and ceiling

Switches● Service outlets, light switches and other

functional elements on the surface of wallsshould be distinguishable from the wall, usingvisual and textural contrast


Design Considerations for Sensory Impairments

Visual contrast between door and frameNote also contrast between door and doorfurniture. The difference between floor andwall is also well highlighted

55

Sanitary Fittings● Quite often accessible WC compartments are

fitted out with white walls, white fittings andgrab-rails. This not only looks clinical, but causesglare and difficulty due to lack of contrast

● Toilet seats should contrast visually withthe pan

● Grab-rails should contrast visually withthe background

● Other fittings such as soap dispensers, towelholders etc... should be distinguishable fromthe wall they are fitted on

● Emergency pull-cords should be red

External LandscapeFurniture ● Consideration must be given to providing

good contrast for benches, planters and otherfurniture outside the building

NOTE● Whilst high gloss and polished metal looks

good, its reflective nature is detrimental toachieving suitable contrast

FACILITIES IN BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGSDesign Considerations for Sensory Impairments

Good visual contrast between WC pan and seat. Note also the contrasting colour of the grab-rails from the wall

56

57

HEARING ENHANCEMENTSYSTEMSProvision for a hearing enhancement systemshould be installed in rooms and spaces designedfor meetings, lectures, classes, spectator sport orfilms, and at service or reception countersparticularly in noisy areas or where they arebehind glass screens.

● It is essential staff are fully trained in howto use the systems

● All facilities should be indicated with theappropriate symbol and signage

● Portable systems are a flexible alternative forsmaller rooms or where cost is an issue

● Detailed guidance on surface finishes, visual,audible and tactile signs as well as thecharacteristics and appropriate choice ofhearing enhancement is given in BS8300

LIGHTING LEVELS ● Someone with a visual impairment needs

between 50 and 100 per cent more light thana fully sighted person. (RNIB)

● Walls, ceilings, floors and work benches etcshould have matt finishes to avoid glare

● Where one to one communication isimportant, lighting should provide sufficientillumination to aid lip reading.

Table 4Lux recommendations for lighting

Area To Be Lit Recommendation

Entrances; Halls, 300 LuxLobbies,Waiting Rooms

Enquiry Desks 600 Lux

Circulation; Corridors, 150 LuxLifts, Stairs

Communal Areas; 300 LuxLounges, Staff Rooms

Kitchens 300 Lux

Bedrooms 150 Lux

Offices 500 Lux

Computer Work 500 LuxStations

Induction LoopAvailable

Facilities for blind andvisually impaired persons


Design Considerations for Sensory Impairments

58

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DWELLINGSAccessibility

On 25th October 1999, Part M of the BuildingRegulations was amended to improve accessibilityfor visitors to all new dwellings. It is not intendedto create lifetime homes. Reasonable access isrequired into the dwelling within the boundaries ofthe plot. Generally, a level or ramped approach isrequired to the principal entrance, with a gradientnot exceeding 1:20 and not less than 900mmwide.

If site topography prevents this, and the plotgradient exceeds 1:20, a ramp may be required.This requires a firm and even surface, a minimumwidth of 900mm, 1.2m top, bottom andintermediate landings, and a gradient no steeperthan 1:12, broken into 5m lengths.

If the plot gradient exceeds 1:15, a steppedapproach will be acceptable, providing the stepsare designed to meet the needs of an ambulantdisabled person (see below).

● The approach cannot be made of loose laidmaterials such as gravel or shingle.

● The presence of a driveway might provide abetter opportunity for creating a level orramped approach, either from the pavementor footpath or from a car parking space.

● The width of the approach, excluding the spacefor parked vehicles (approximately 2.1 metres)should not be less than 900mm.

● Access to the dwelling or block of flats must bevia an accessible threshold. This should bedesigned to take into account the requirementsof other parts of the Building Regulationsincluding resistance to weather and groundmoisture.

Timber sill and external concrete slab paving

Concrete sill and internal transition unit

Fig. 39

Fig. 40

Fig. 41

DWELLINGSCirculation

Internal doors, passages and corridors

Location of switches, sockets, etc for accessibility

Fig. 42

Fig. 43

The DETR published a design guide for accessiblethresholds in new housing, which is available fromThe Stationery Office (ISBN 011 702333 7). Thisdocument provides design solutions for suitablethresholds in many situations which minimise therisk of moisture ingress. Guidance is provided onsuitable sill and threshold profiles, provision ofdrainage channels, treatment of internal floorfinishes and external hard landscaping.

Table 5 – Minimum widths of corridors andpassageways for a range of doorway widths

● Circulation within the entrance storey of thebuilding must be possible for wheelchair users,providing access via doorways, corridors andpassageways to the kitchen, habitable roomsand a room containing a w.c.

● An obstruction free zone of 900mm wide mustbe maintained outside the w.c. and oppositedoor openings in general. This zone shouldextend 200mm both sides of the projectededges of the clear opening.

● On steeply sloping sites a change in level withinthe entrance storey may be unavoidable. A 900mm wide staircase complying with Part Kwith handrails on each side if there are three ormore risers would suffice.

● Switches and sockets on all levels within thedwelling should be located within an accessiblezone. This is to assist people whose reach islimited to use the dwelling more easily.

● If a building contains flats, provision must bemade for disabled people to visit occupants on

any storey. This may be via the installation of asuitably dimensioned and designed lift or viacommon stairways designed for use byambulant disabled and visually impaired people.See Section Vertical Circulation within theBuilding.

Door clearopening width Corridor / passageway width(mm) (mm)

750 or wider 900 (when approach is head-on)

750 1200 (when approach not head-on)



60

61

DWELLINGSWCs within Dwellings

A WC should be provided in the entrance storeyof the dwelling. This should be located such that itcan be reached from the habitable rooms in thatstorey without using stairs. (If the entrance storeycontains no habitable rooms the WC may beprovided in the principal storey.)

The door to the WC should

■ open outwards

■ have a clear opening width as describedpreviously

■ be positioned to enable wheelchair usersto access the WC

N.B. The compartment does not have to fullyaccommodate a wheelchair, and handrails are notrequired.

The minimum width of the compartment is900mm, but prescriptive layouts have not beenimposed. Consideration should be given to thelocation of the wash basin, particularly in very smallrooms.

It is intended that these improved standards willnot only help disabled people to visit other homesmore easily, but will also enable more people toremain in their homes for longer as they becomeless mobile with age.

Fig. 44

Fig. 45

Clear space for frontal access to WC

Clear space for frontal access to WC

62

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● The international symbol of accessibility; thesetting out of the symbol should be based on asquare tile as shown.

● Ensure legibility of signs and lettering byattention to size and style and by use of strongcolours, good immediate background and non-distracting general background and by goodlighting without glare.

● Lettering should be within visual range andprovide good contrast against the background.

● Raised letters are helpful to blind peopleparticularly. They should be within hand reachat a reasonable level. Ensure the backgroundsurface is comfortable to touch. Confine tosingle letters, numerals, symbols and keep tostandard positions in a building.

● Symbols should be as near pictorial as possible.Standard symbols should indicate specificfacilities, i.e. induction loop information,communications, assistance available if required.

● Signs should be consistent, thorough andcontinuous along routes and should takeaccount of the need for reassurance.

INTERIOR ERGONOMICSSigns and Symbols

WWaaii tt iinngg rroooomm

Fig. 46

Fig. 47Fig. 48

63

INTERIOR ERGONOMICSAnthropometric Data

● The formulation of design criteria for buildingsdepends to a considerable extent on thedimensional characteristics of people at rest andmoving and on their range of physicalcapabilities. In the case of people withdisabilities, these criteria may be modified bythe use of aids such as sticks, artificial limbs andwheelchairs.

● To determine appropriate limits for the rangeof the population to be accommodated, thestatistical technique of percentile distributionis used.

● For example, for the head-height of chairboundmen, the value of 1:235 for the fifth percentilemeans that five per cent of chairbound men’shead height when in a wheelchair is at 1:235or less; the value 1:435 for the 95th percentilemeans that 95 per cent is at 1:435 high or shorter.

The figures below show the relevant dimensions.

MEN

Fig. 49

64


● Although in certain situations, it is appropriateto use the average as a criteria, it must beemphasised that averages should be treatedwith caution. It is hazardous to make decisionson the basis of catering for the average man orwoman. In a representative sample of

population, 50 per cent of measurements willbe greater than the average and 50 per centwill be less. Dimensions based on the averagewill therefore at best satisfy only 50 per cent ofpotential users.

WOMEN

Fig. 50

65


● When data is applied to design problems, it isusually found that there is a limiting factor inone direction only, e.g. if the problem relatesto obstructions at head-height, the measures ofshort people are not significant. In applyingdata, the designer should enquire whichdimension is critical.

● It is not the case that whenever the value forthe 95th percentile is observed, 95 per cent ofthe population will be accommodated; if thecritical dimension is in the opposite direction,only five per cent will be accommodated andthe correct course is to apply the 5th percentileinstead.

GIRLS AGED 4, 8 AND 12

Fig. 51

BOYS AGED 4, 8 AND 12

66


AMBULANT PEOPLE

● It is not always economic or practicable tocover 100 per cent of the population bycatering for people at the extremes. It may notbe possible to obtain a solution to a specificdesign problem, which is equally efficient for atypical ambulant person and a person in awheelchair.

Fig. 52

67

INTERIOR ERGONOMICSErgonomic Data

AMBULANT PEOPLE

● The convenient positioning of fittings andequipment is governed by body and reachdimensions. The general application of therecommendations should ensure that fittingsand equipment are suitably located.

A. Comfortable vertical reachA: minus 0.070: maximum height of storageshelves, allowing access to front of shelf.

A: minus 0.150: maximum height of 0.300 deepstorage shelves over 0.600 floor units, allowingaccess to front of shelf.

B. Oblique vertical reachB: maximum height of window and blind controls.

B: minus 0.060: maximum height of 0.200 deepstorage shelves over 0.600 floor units, allowingaccess to front of shelf.

B: minus 0.080: maximum height of unobstructedstorage shelves, allowing reach to back of shelf.

C. Head heightC: relate to fixed mirror heights and position ofshower fittings.

D. Eye levelD: avoid window transomes at this level.

D: related to fixed mirror heights.

E. Shoulder levelE: preferred maximum height of switches andcontrols.

F. Elbow levelF: minus 0.130: preferred level of kitchen surfaceswhere sink rim and general work surfaces are atthe same height.

F: minus 0.100: preferred level of sink rim.F: minus 0.150: preferred level of general worksurfaces.

F: minus 0.100: preferred level of wash basin rim.F: minus 0.250: preferred level of fixed ironingboard.

G. Knuckle height (comfortable downwardreach)G: lower level of preferred zone for most-usedarticles stored in kitchen.

G: preferred minimum height of socket outlets andother controls.

G: preferred height of letter basket and deliveryshelves adjacent to entrance door.

H. Effective downward reachH: minimum height of storage shelves, socketoutlets, heater controls and oven floor.

J. Comfortable forward reachJ: plus 0.100: maximum depth of kitchen worksurfaces.

J: preferred maximum dimension, sink fascia to sinktops.

K. Toe projectionK: preferred minimum depth, toe recesses tokitchen units.

Fig. 53

68

INTERIOR ERGONOMICSErgonomic Data

A. Comfortable vertical reachA: minus 0.070: maximum height of unobstructedstorage shelves with lateral approach, reach to front ofshelf.

B. Oblique vertical reachB: maximum height of window and blind controls.B: minus 0.120: maximum height of 0.300 deepstorage shelves over 0.600 floor units, allowing reachto front of shelf.B: minus 0.160: maximum height of unobstructedstorage shelves with frontal approach, allowing reach toback of shelves.

C. Comfortable forward vertical reachC: preferred maximum height of window and othercontrols.C: maximum height of electric switches.

D. Head heightD: related to height of shower fittings.

E. Eye levelE: avoid window transomes at this level; relate to sillheights.E: relate to fixed mirror heights.

F. Shoulder levelF: plus 0.100: upper level of preferred zone for most-used articles stored in kitchen.F: preferred maximum height of electric switches.

G. Chair armrest levelG: maximum unobstructed dimension below worksurfaces or tables to permit close approach.

H. Elbow levelH: plus 0.020: preferred height of letter basket anddelivery shelves adjacent to entrance door.H: minus 0.030: preferred height of pull-out for foodpreparation.H: minus 0.040: preferred height of fixed ironingboard.

J. Thigh levelJ: minimum unobstructed vertical dimension for kneerecesses to tables, desks, kitchen sink, preparationcentre and wash hand basin.J: plus 0.160: preferred height of kitchen work surfacesat consistent level assuming 0.150 deep sink bowl.

K. Chair seat level, centre front edge (withcushion if used)K: preferred level of WC seat, platform at head end ofbath and shower seat.

L. Knuckle heightL: plus 0.100: minimum height of heater controls.L: plus 0.050: lower level of preferred zone for most-used articles stored in kitchen.L: minimum level of oven floor.

M. Comfortable downward reachM: minimum height of storage shelves.

N. Foot heightN: minimum height of toe recesses to kitchen units.

O. Effective forward reachO: maximum depth of kitchen work surfaces.

P. Forward reach beyond face of chair armP: comfortable reach over low-level tables, etc.P: preferred maximum dimension, sink fascia to sinktaps.

Q. Knee projection beyond face of chair armQ: minimum dimension sink fascia to waste pipe andwash basin fascia to waste pipe.

R. Toe projection from front to waistR: preferred minimum depth of tables and kneerecesses to permit close approach.

S. Toe projection beyond face of chair armS: minimum depth of knee recesses to kitchen sink,preparation centre, wash basin, etc.

T. Toe projection at lower leg levelT: minimum depth of toe recesses to kitchen units.

WHEELCHAIR USERS

MEASUREMENTS

Fig. 54

69

BIBLIOGRAPHY

The Building Regulations 2000 as amended

The Building Regulations (Amendment)Regulations 1998

Approved Document B Fire Safety

Approved Document K Protection from falling,collision and impact

Approved Document M Access to and Useof Buildings

Approved Document N Glazing Materials andProtection

BRITISH STANDARDS

BS 4787 Internal and External Wood Doorsets,Door Leaves and Frames B.S.I.

BS 5395 Stairs, Ladders and Walkways B.S.I.

BS 5588 Part 8: Code of Practice forMeans of Escape for Disabled People B.S.I.

BS 5655 Lifts and Service Lifts B.S.I.

BS 6180 Code of Practice for ProtectiveBarriers In and About Buildings B.S.I.

BS 8300 Design of Buildings and theApproaches to meet the needs ofDisabled People B.S.I.

Designing for the Disabled – Selwyn Goldsmith

Building Bulletin 91Access for Disabled Peopleto School Buildings – Department of

Education andInvolvement

New Metric Handbook – Architectural Press

LEGISLATION AND BIBLIOGRAPHY

LEGISLATION

The following are the most significant Acts ofParliament which affect disabled people.

Building Act 1984

Building Regulations 2000

Chronically Sick and DisabledPersons Act 1970

Cinematograph Acts 1909 and 1952

Companies (Employment of DisabledPersons) Regulations 1980

Disabled Persons Act 1981

Disabled Persons Employment Act 1944(amended 1958)

Disability Discrimination Act 2005

Education Act 1944

Education Act 1980

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

Health and Safety at Work, etc Act 1974

Highways Act 1980

Housing Act 2004

Licensing Acts 1961, 1964 and 2003

Theatres Acts 1843 and 1968

Town and Country Planning Act 1990

70

71

USEFUL CONTACTS

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N O R T H H E R T F O R D S H I R ED I S T R I C T C O U N C I L

This publication has been produced by HertfordshireLocal Authority Building Control