part m access and use 2004

7/30/2019 Part M Access and Use 2004

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Access to and use of buildings

The Building Regulations 2000

MM1 Access and use

M2 Access to extensions to buildings otherthan dwellings

M3 Sanitary conveniences in extensions tobuildings other than dwellings

M4 Sanitary conveniences in dwellings

APPROVED DOCUMENT

2004

ed

ition


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Approved Document M Access to and use of buildings

Contents M

Contents

PAGE

Use of guidance 5

The approved documents 5

Limitations on requirements 5

Materials and workmanship 5

Mixed use development 6

The Workplace (Health, Safety andWelfare) Regulations 1992 6

Disability Discrimination Act 1995and the Disability Discrimination(Employment) Regulations 1996 7

The Requirements 8

Section 0: General guidance 11

Performance 11

Where the requirements apply 11

Application of Part M 11

Extensions and materialalterations: dwellings 11

Extensions of non-domestic

buildings 11Material alterations ofnon-domestic buildings 12

Material changes of use 13

Car parking and setting down 13

What requirements apply 13

Buildings other than dwellings 13

Dwellings 14

Educational establishments 14Historic buildings 14

Access statements 14

Definitions 16

SECTIONS 15: BUILDINGS OTHER

THAN DWELLINGS

Section 1: Access to buildings otherthan dwellings 18

Objectives 18

Level approach from the boundaryof site and car parking 18

PAGE

On-site car parking and setting down 19

Ramped access 21

Stepped access 22

Handrails to external stepped andramped access 24

Hazards on access routes 25

Section 2: Access into buildingsother than dwellings 27

Objectives 27

Accessible entrances 27

Doors to accessible entrances 27

Manually operated non-poweredentrance doors 29

Powered entrance doors 29

Glass entrance doors andglazed screens 30

Entrance lobbies 30

Section 3: Horizontal and vertical

circulation in buildings otherthan dwellings 33

Objective 33

Entrance hall and reception area 33

Internal doors 33

Corridors and passageways 35

Internal lobbies 36

Vertical circulation within the building 36

Provision of lifting devices 36

General requirements forlifting devices 37

Passenger lifts 37

Lifting platforms 39

Wheelchair platform stairlifts 40

Internal stairs 41

Internal ramps 41

Handrails to internal steps, stairsand ramps 41


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Access to and use of buildings Approved Document M

PAGE

Section 4: Facilities in buildingsother than dwellings 43

Objectives 43

Audience and spectator facilities 43

Refreshment facilities 45

Sleeping accommodation 47

Switches, outlets and controls 48

Aids to communication 50

Section 5: Sanitary accommodationin buildings other than dwellings 52

Objectives 52

Sanitary accommodation generally 52Provision of toilet accommodation 53

Wheelchair-accessibile unisex toilets 53

Toilets in separate-sex washrooms 56

Wheelchair-accessible changingand shower facilities 57

Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms 61

SECTIONS 610: DWELLINGS

Section 6: Means of access to and

into the dwelling 64

Objective 64

Approach to the dwelling 64

Level approach 64

Ramped approach 65

Stepped approach 65

Approach using a driveway 65

Access into the dwelling 65

Entrance doors 66

Section 7: Circulation within theentrance storey of the dwelling 67

Objective 67

Corridors, passageways and internaldoors within the entrance storey 67

Vertical circulation within theentrance storey 68

PAGE

Section 8: Accessible switchesand socket outlets in the dwelling 69

Objective 69

Section 9: Passenger lifts andcommon stairs in blocks of flats 70

Objectives 70

Common stairs 70

Lifts 71

Section 10: WC provision in theentrance storey of the dwelling 72

Objectives 72

Index 73

Standards referred to 81

Other publications referred to 82

DIAGRAMS

1. Tactile paving and an example ofits use at an uncontrolled crossing 19

2. Parking bay designated for

disabled people 203. Relationship of ramp gradient to

the going of a flight 21

4. Stepped access key dimensionsand use of hazard warning surface 23

5. External steps and stairs key dimensions 24

6. Examples of acceptable stepprofiles and key dimensions for

external stairs 247. Handrail design 25

8. Avoiding hazards onaccess routes 26

9. Effective clear width and visibilityrequirements of doors 29

10. Key dimensions for lobbies withsingle leaf doors 32

11. Key dimensions associated with

passenger lifts 38

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PAGE

12. Internal stairs key dimensions 42

13. An example of wheelchair spacesin a lecture theatre 44

14. Possible location of wheelchairspaces in front of a rear aisle 46

15. An example of wheelchair spaceprovision in a cinema or theatre 46

16. An example of a sharedrefreshment facility 47

17. One example of a wheelchair-accessible hotel bedroom withen-suite sanitary facilities 49

18. Unisex wheelchair-accessibletoilet with corner WC 55

19. Height and arrangement offittings in a unisex wheelchair-accessible toilet 55

20. Height of various fittings in toiletaccommodation 56

21. WC cubicle for ambulantdisabled people 57

22. An example of a self-contained

changing room for individual use 59

23. An example of a self-containedshower room for individual use 60

24. An example of a shower roomincorporating a corner WC forindividual use 61

25. An example of a bathroomincorporating a corner WC 62

26. Grab rails and fittings associated

with a bath 63

27. External step profiles 65

28. Corridors, passages andinternal doors 67

29. Heights of switches, sockets, etc. 69

30. Common stairs in blocks of flats 70

31. Clear space for frontal accessto WC 72

32. Clear space for oblique accessto WC 72

PAGE

TABLES

1. Limits for ramp gradients 21

2. Minimum effective clear widthsof doors 28

3. Provision of wheelchair spacesin audience seating 44

4. Minimum widths of corridorsand passageways for a rangeof doorway widths 67

CONTENTS M


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THE APPROVED DOCUMENTS

This document is one of a series that hasbeen approved and issued by the Secretaryof State for the purpose of providing

practical guidance with respect to therequirements of Schedule 1 to andRegulation 7 of the Building Regulations2000 for England and Wales (SI 2000/2531).SI 2000/2531 has been amended by theBuilding (Amendment) Regulations 2001(SI 2001/3335), the Building (Amendment)Regulations 2002 (SI 2002/440), the Building(Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2002(SI 2002/2871) and the Building (Amendment)Regulations 2003 (SI 2003/2692).

At the back of this document is a listof all the documents that have beenapproved and issued by the Secretaryof State for this purpose.

Approved Documents are intended toprovide guidance for some of the morecommon building situations. However,there may well be alternative ways ofachieving compliance with the requirements.

Thus there is no obligation to adoptany particular solution contained in anApproved Document if you prefer tomeet the relevant requirement in someother way.

Other requirements

The guidance contained in an ApprovedDocument relates only to the particularrequirements of the Regulations which thedocument addresses. The building work will

also have to comply with the requirementsof any other relevant paragraphs inSchedule 1 to the Regulations.

There are Approved Documents which giveguidance on each of the Parts of Schedule 1and on Regulation 7.

LIMITATION ON REQUIREMENTS

In accordance with regulation 8, therequirements in Parts A to D, F to K and N

(except for paragraphs H2 and J6) ofSchedule 1 to the Building Regulations donot require anything to be done except for

the purpose of securing reasonablestandards of health and safety for personsin or about buildings (and any others whomay be affected by buildings or matters

connected with buildings). This is one ofthe categories of purpose for whichbuilding regulations may be made.

Paragraphs H2 and J6 are excluded fromRegulation 8 because they deal directly withprevention of the contamination of water.Parts E and M (which deal, respectively,with resistance to the passage of sound,and access to and use of buildings) areexcluded from Regulation 8 because theyaddress the welfare and convenience ofbuilding users. Part L is excluded fromRegulation 8 because it addresses theconservation of fuel and power. All thesematters are amongst the purposes, otherthan health and safety, that may beaddressed by Building Regulations.

MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP

Any building work which is subject tothe requirements imposed by Schedule 1

to the Building Regulations should, inaccordance with Regulation 7, be carriedout with proper materials and in aworkmanlike manner.

You may show that you have complied withRegulation 7 in a number of ways. Theseinclude the appropriate use of a productbearing CE marking in accordance with theConstruction Products Directive (89/106/EEC)1 as amended by the CE Marking

Directive (93/68/EEC)2, or a productcomplying with an appropriate technicalspecification (as defined in those Directives),a British Standard, or an alternative nationaltechnical specification of any state whichis a contracting party to the EuropeanEconomic Area which, in use, is equivalent,or a product covered by a national orEuropean certificate issued by a European

Use of guidance

1 As implemented by the Construction Products Regulations 1991

(SI 1991/1620).

2 As implemented by the Construction Products (Amendment) Regulations

1994 (SI 1994/3051).

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Technical Approval issuing body, and theconditions of use are in accordance withthe terms of the certificate. You will findfurther guidance in the Approved Documentsupporting Regulation 7 on materials andworkmanship.

Independent certification schemes

There are many UK product certificationschemes. Such schemes certify compliancewith the requirements of a recogniseddocument which is appropriate to thepurpose for which the material is to beused. Materials which are not so certifiedmay still conform to a relevant standard.

Many certification bodies which approvesuch schemes are accredited by UKAS.

Technical specifications

Under Section 1(1)(a) of the Building Act1984, Building Regulations may be madefor various purposes including health,safety, welfare, convenience, conservationof fuel and power and prevention ofcontamination of water. Standards andtechnical approvals are relevant guidanceto the extent that they relate to these

considerations. However, they may alsoaddress other aspects of performancesuch as serviceability, or aspects whichalthough they relate to the purposes listedabove are not covered by the currentRegulations.

When an Approved Document makesreference to a named standard, the relevantversion of the standard is the one listed atthe end of the publication. However, if this

version has been revised or updated by theissuing standards body, the new versionmay be used as a source of guidanceprovided it continues to address therelevant requirements of the Regulations.

The appropriate use of a product whichcomplies with a European TechnicalApproval as defined in the ConstructionProducts Directive will meet the relevantrequirements.

The Office intends to issue periodicamendments to its Approved Documentsto reflect emerging harmonised European

Standards. Where a national standard isto be replaced by a harmonised EuropeanStandard, there will be a co-existenceperiod during which either standard may bereferred to. At the end of the co-existenceperiod the national standard will be

withdrawn.

MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT

In mixed use developments part of abuilding may be used as a dwelling whileanother part has a non-domestic use.In such cases, if the requirements of theRegulations for dwellings and non-domesticuse differ, the requirements for non-domestic use should apply in any sharedparts of the building.

THE WORKPLACE (HEALTH,

SAFETY AND WELFARE)

REGULATIONS 1992

The Workplace (Health, Safety andWelfare) Regulations 1992 as amendedby The Health and Safety (MiscellaneousAmendments) Regulations 2002(SI 2002/2174) contain some requirements

which affect building design. The mainrequirements are now covered by theBuilding Regulations, but for furtherinformation see: Workplace health, safetyand welfare. Workplace (Health, Safety andWelfare) Regulations 1992, Approved Codeof Practice L24. Published by HSE Books1992 (ISBN 0 7176 0413 6).

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)Regulations 1992 apply to the commonparts of flats and similar buildings if peoplesuch as cleaners and caretakers areemployed to work in these common parts.Where the requirements of the BuildingRegulations that are covered by this Partdo not apply to dwellings, the provisionsmay still be required in the situationsdescribed above in order to satisfy theWorkplace Regulations.

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DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION

ACT 1995 AND THE DISABILITY

DISCRIMINATION (EMPLOYMENT)

REGULATIONS 1996

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995

(DDA) contains duties to make reasonableadjustments to physical features ofpremises in certain circumstances.

Following the guidance in this ApprovedDocument (or a previous version thereof) isnot a requirement for satisfying these dutiesto make reasonable adjustments. However,the following points should be noted.

Duties in the employment field

Up to 30 September 2004:a duty tomake reasonable adjustments is set out

in Section 6 of the DDA and applies toemployers with 15 or more employees.However, an exemption from this duty isprovided by Regulation 8 of the DisabilityDiscrimination (Employment) Regulations1996 (SI 1996/1456) (the 1996 Regulations):an employer is not required to alter anyphysical characteristic of a building, whichwas adopted with a view to satisfying the

requirements of Part M of the BuildingRegulations and met those requirementsat the time the building works were carriedout and continues substantially to meetthose requirements.

From 1 October 2004: the exemptionin the 1996 Regulations ceases to apply.Some changes to the duty to makereasonable adjustments are introducedfrom 1 October 2004 and its coverage is

extended to all employers (irrespectiveof size) and a range of other bodies andoccupations (e.g. qualifications bodiesand partners in business partnerships).Depending on the nature of the organisationconcerned, the revised duty of reasonableadjustment is set out in Sections 4A,4B(5), 4B(6), 4E, 6B, 7B, 7D, 14, 14B,14D and 16A(5) of the DDA as amendedby the Disability Discrimination Act1995 (Amendment) Regulations 2003

(SI 2003/1673).

Duties of providers of services tothe public

Up to 30 September 2004: there isno duty on service providers to makereasonable adjustments to physicalfeatures of premises.

From 1 October 2004: The duty to makereasonable adjustments set out in Sections21(2)(a), (b) and (c) of the DDA comes intoforce. It applies to all those who provideservices to the public irrespective of theirsize. It requires service providers to takereasonable steps to remove, alter orprovide a reasonable means of avoidinga physical feature of their premises,which makes it unreasonably difficult or

impossible for disabled people to makeuse of their services.

An exemption from these duties isprovided by Regulation 3 of the DisabilityDiscrimination (Providers of Services)(Adjustment of Premises) Regulations 2001(SI 2001/3253) (2001 Regulations) withfurther detail of the exemption set out inthe Schedule to the 2001 Regulations. The2001 Regulations provide that, if a physical

feature accords with the relevant objectives,design considerations and provisions inthe 1992 or 1999 editions of ApprovedDocument M, the service provider will nothave to make adjustments to that feature if10 years or less has passed since it wasconstructed or installed. For building workswhere the Building Regulations applied,the effective edition will be the versionwhich applied in meeting those BuildingRegulations.

The 2001 Regulations specify that theexemption only applies to physical featuresconstructed or installed in accordance withthe 1992 or 1999 editions of ApprovedDocument M. The Disability Discrimination(Providers of services) (Adjustment ofPremises) (Amendment) Regulations 2004(SI 2004/1429) extend the exemptions tophysical features constructed or installedin accordance with the 2004 edition of

Approved Document M.

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This Approved Document, which takeseffect on 1 May 2004, deals with therequirements of Part M of Schedule 1 tothe Building Regulations 2000 (as amended

by SI 2003/2692).

Requirement Limits on application

PART M ACCESS TO AND USE OF

BUILDINGS

Access and use

M1. Reasonable provision shall be made for

people to:

(a) gain access to; and

(b) use

the building and its facilities.

Access to extensions to buildings other

than dwellings

M2. Suitable independent access shall beprovided to the extension where reasonably

practicable.

Sanitary conveniences in extensions to

buildings other than dwellings

M3. If sanitary conveniences are provided

in any building that is to be extended,

reasonable provision shall be made within

the extension for sanitary conveniences.

Sanitary conveniences in dwellingsM4. (1) Reasonable provision shall be made

in the entrance storey for sanitary conveniences,

or where the entrance storey contains no

habitable rooms, reasonable provision for

sanitary conveniences shall be made in either

the entrance storey or the principal storey.

(2) In this paragraph entrance storey

means the storey which contains the principal

entrance and principal storey means the

storey nearest to the entrance storey whichcontains a habitable room, or if there are two

such storeys equally near, either such storey.

The requirements of this Part do not apply to:

(a) an extension of or material alteration of

a dwelling; or

(b) any part of a building which is used

solely to enable the building or any service

or fitting in the building to be inspected,

repaired or maintained.

Requirement M2 does not apply wheresuitable access to the extension is provided

through the building that is extended.

Requirement M3 does not apply where there is

reasonable provision for sanitary conveniences

elsewhere in the building, such that people

occupied in, or otherwise having occasion to

enter the extension, can gain access to and

use those sanitary conveniences.

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Notes

Means of escape in case of fire: thescope of Part M and AD M is limited tomatters of access to, into and use of abuilding. It does not extend to meansof escape in the event of fire, for which

reference should be made to ApprovedDocument B Fire Safety.

Stairs and ramps: Approved Document K Protection from falling, collision andimpact contains general guidance on stairand ramp design. The guidance in AD Mreflects more recent ergonomic researchconducted to support BS 8300 (see below)and should take precedence over guidancein AD K where it may appear to conflict.

Further research on stairs is currently beingconducted and will be reflected in futurerevisions of Part K and AD K.

Manifestation on glazed doors andglazed screens: Approved Document N Glazing safety in relation to impact,opening and cleaning contains guidanceon manifestation. The guidance in AD Mreflects more recent experience ofmanifestation and should take precedence

over the guidance in AD N where it mayappear to conflict, until Part N and AD Nare revised.

BS 8300:2001 Design of buildings andtheir approaches to meet the needsof disabled people. Code of Practice:this supersedes BS 5619:1978 and BS5810:1979. BS 8300 provides guidanceon good practice in the design of domesticand non-domestic buildings and theirapproaches so that they are convenientto use by disabled people. The designrecommendations are based on user trialsand validated desk studies which formedpart of a research project commissioned in1997 and 2001 by DETR. The guidance inthis Approved Document is based on andis complementary to the BS, although theBS contains much additional material thatis not apt for, or not considered appropriatefor, inclusion in guidance accompanying

regulation. Also, in a few cases, the guidancein AD M differs from the recommendationin BS 8300. Compliance with the

recommendations in the BS, therefore,while ensuring good practice, is notnecessarily equivalent to compliancewith the guidance in AD M.

Attention is drawn to the followingextracts from The Building Regulations

2000 (as amended by SI 2001/3335,SI 2002/440, SI 2002/2871 andSI 2003/2692).

Interpretation (Regulation 2)

Regulation 2, as amended by SI 2003/2692,contains the following new definition:

independent access to an extension orpart of a building means access to thatpart which does not pass through the rest

of the building.In the following texts of Regulations 5 and 6,amendments introduced by SI 2003/2692are in bold type. The meanings of theexpressions institution, public buildingand shop used in Regulation 5 areexplained in Regulation 2.

Meaning of material change of use(regulation 5)

For the purposes of paragraph 8 (1)(e) ofSchedule 1 to the Act and for the purposesof these Regulations, there is a materialchange of use where there is a change inthe purposes for which or the circumstancesin which a building is used, so that afterthe change:

a. the building is used as a dwelling,where previously it was not;

b. the building contains a flat, where

previously it did not;c. the building is used as an hotel or

boarding house, where previously itwas not;

d. the building is used as an institution,where previously it was not;

e. the building is used as a public building,where previously it was not;

f. the building is not a building described

in Classes I to VI in Schedule 2, wherepreviously it was;

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g. the building, which contains at least onedwelling, contains a greater or lessernumber of dwellings than it did previously;

h. the building contains a room for residentialpurposes, where previously it did not;

I. the building, which contains at least oneroom for residential purposes, containsa greater or lesser number of suchrooms than it did previously; or

j. the building is used as a shop, wherepreviously it was not.

Requirements relating to materialchange of use (Regulation 6)

1. Where there is a material change ofuse of the whole of a building, such work, if

any, shall be carried out as is necessary toensure that the building complies with theapplicable requirements of the followingparagraphs of Schedule 1:

a. in all cases,

B1 (means of warning and escape)

B2 (internal fire spread linings)

B3 (internal fire spread structure)

B4(2) (external fire spread roofs)

B5 (access and facilities for thefire service)

F1 and F2 (ventilation)

G1 (sanitary conveniences andwashing facilities)

G2 (bathrooms)

H1 (foul water drainage)

H6 (solid waste storage)

J1 to J3 (combustion appliances)

L1 (conservation of fuel and power dwellings)

L2 (conservation of fuel and power buildings other than dwellings);

b. in the case of a material change of usedescribed in Regulations 5(c), (d), (e) or(f), A1 to A3 (structure);

c. in the case of a building exceeding15m in height, B4(1) (external firespread walls);

d. in the case of material change ofuse described in Regulation 5(a),C4 (resistance to weather and groundmoisture);

e. in the case of a material change of usedescribed in Regulation 5(a), (b), (c), (g),

(h) or (i), E1 to E3 (resistance to thepassage of sound);

f. in the case of a material change ofuse described in Regulation 5(e),where the public building consistsof or contains a school, E4 (acousticconditions in schools);

g. in the case of a material change ofuse described in Regulation 5(c), (d),(e) or (j), M1 (access and use).

2. Where there is a material change ofuse of part only of a building, such work, ifany, shall be carried out as is necessary toensure that:

a. that part complies in all cases with anyapplicable requirements referred to inparagraph (1)(a);

b. in a case to which sub-paragraphs (b),(d), (e) or (f) of paragraph (1) apply, that

part complies with the requirementsreferred to in the relevant sub-paragraph;

c. in a case to which sub-paragraph (c)of paragraph (1) applies, the wholebuilding complies with the requirementreferred to in that sub-paragraph; and

d. in a case to which sub-paragraph (g)of paragraph (1) applies:

i. that part and any sanitaryconveniences provided in or in

connection with that part complywith the requirements referred toin that sub-paragraph; and

ii. the building complies withrequirement M1(a) of Schedule 1to the extent that reasonableprovision is made to provide eithersuitable independent access tothat part or suitable access throughthe building to that part.

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PERFORMANCE

In the Secretary of States view therequirements of Part M will be met bymaking reasonable provision to ensure

that buildings are accessible and usable.

People, regardless of disability, age orgender, should be able to:

a. gain access to buildings and to gainaccess within buildings and use theirfacilities, both as visitors and as peoplewho live or work in them;

b. use sanitary conveniences in theprincipal storey of a new dwelling.

The provisions are expected to enableoccupants with disabilities to cope betterwith reducing mobility and to stay putlonger in their own homes. The provisionsare not necessarily expected to facilitatefully independent living for all people withdisabilities.

Where the requirements apply

Application of Part M

0.1 The requirements apply if:

a. a non-domestic building or a dwellingis newly erected;

b. an existing non-domestic building isextended, or undergoes a materialalteration; or

c. an existing building or part of an existingbuilding undergoes a material changeof use to a hotel or boarding house,

institution, public building or shop.The terms institution, public building andshop are explained in regulation 2.

It should be noted that, regardless ofcompliance with Building Regulations,there will be obligations under the DisabilityDiscrimination Act 1995 for service providersand employers to consider barriers createdby physical features in buildings.

Extensions and material alterations:dwellings

0.2 Under Regulation 4(2), where anybuilding is extended, or undergoes a

material alteration, the building work mustbe carried out so that after it has beencompleted the building complies with theapplicable requirements of Schedule 1,or, where it did not fully comply with anyapplicable requirement, it is no moreunsatisfactory than before.

0.3 This rule applies to domestic as wellas to non-domestic buildings. Under theLimits on Application in Part M, Part M

does not apply to an extension of, or amaterial alteration of, a dwelling. However,an extension of a dwelling, or a materialalteration of a dwelling, must not makethe building less satisfactory in relationto Part M than it was before.

0.4 Under regulation 3, the expressionmaterial alteration is defined by referenceto a list of relevant requirements inSchedule 1. That list includes Part M. This

means that an alteration of a dwelling is amaterial alteration if the work would resultin the dwelling not complying with Part Mwhere previously it did. Alternatively, if thedwelling did not previously comply withPart M, the dwelling should not be moreunsatisfactory in relation to Part M after thematerial alteration. It is irrelevant whetheror not the dwelling was subject to Part Mat the time of its construction. Under thegeneral Limits on Application of Part M, the

requirements of that Part do not apply toan extension of or a material alteration of adwelling. This means that the extension oralteration work itself need not comply withPart M. However, a planned alteration to adwelling that has the potential to reducethe compliance of the dwelling as a wholewith Part M must be carried out in such away that there is no reduction in the extentof Part M compliance. Similarly, an extensionof a dwelling need not itself comply withPart M, but it must not result in the dwellingbeing less compliant with Part M. Thefollowing examples illustrate these points.

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Example 1: a planned project involvingremoval of a WC in the entrance storey of adwelling would be a material alteration if itis the only WC in that storey and the storeycontains habitable rooms. The WC mustnotbe removed or made less compliant

with Part M, unless another WC is providedin the entrance storey that is no lesssatisfactory in terms of compliance withPart M than the old one.

Example 2: a planned extension (notexempt under Class VII of Schedule 2)enclosing the principal entrance of adwelling must not make the dwelling lesssatisfactory in terms of requirement M1than it was before. It must be no less easyfor people, including disabled people, togain access to the dwelling, either via theextension and the original entrance point,or (subject to the guidance in Section 6 ofthis AD) via a suitable alternative entrance.

Extensions of non-domestic buildings

0.5 An extension to a non-domesticbuilding should be treated in the samemanner as a new building, as regards itsown compliance with Part M. Under the new

Requirement M2 there must be suitableindependent access to the extensionwhere reasonably practicable. Under theLimits on Application, Requirement M2does not apply where the building that isextended complies with Requirement M1(a)so as to provide suitable access throughthe building to the extension. The conceptof access encompasses access from theboundary of the site and from on-site carparking where provided.

0.6 If the owners of a building prefernot to provide independent access to aplanned extension, it is open to them eitherto demonstrate that the existing buildingand the approach to it already comply withRequirement M1(a), so that the Limit onApplication of Requirement M2 applies,or to modify the existing building and/orthe approach to it so that the Limit onApplication applies. Such modification

work would be a material alteration.The extensions and the alterations of theexisting building could be planned andcarried out as a single project.

0.7 In judging whether access provisionrelying on the existing building is sufficientfor the Limit on Application of RequirementM2 to apply, and in judging whether itis reasonably practicable for suitableindependent access to be provided, practical

constraints and cost considerations will berelevant see also Access Statementsparagraphs 0.26 and 0.27 below.

0.8 Under new Requirement M3, ifsanitary conveniences are provided in anybuilding that is to be extended, reasonableprovision must be made within the extensionfor sanitary conveniences. However, underthe Limit on Application of RequirementM3, this requirement does not apply ifthere is reasonable provision for peopleusing the extension to gain access toand to use sanitary conveniences in theexisting building. As in the case of accessto an extension, it is open to buildingowners preferring not to make provisionsfor sanitary conveniences in a plannedextension either to demonstrate thatreasonable provision already exists in, orto modify, the existing building so that theLimit on Application of Requirement M3

applies. In this case, too, the extension andthe modifications to the existing buildingcould be planned and carried out as asingle project.

Material alterations of non-domesticbuildings

0.9 Under regulation 4, where analteration of a non-domestic building isa material alteration, the work itself mustcomply, where relevant, with Requirement

M1. This means that alterations to featuresrelevant to the compliance of a buildingwith Part M, such as entrances orarrangements for people to get fromone level to another within the building,must result in features that comply withRequirement M1. Where new featuresrelevant to the compliance of a buildingwith Part M are provided, these must alsocomply with Requirement M1. Reasonable

provision must be made for people to gainaccess to and to use new or alteredsanitary conveniences. The building as awhole, including access to it from the site

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boundary and from on-site car parkingwhere provided, must be no less compliantwith Requirement M1 following a materialalteration of a building. In the context ofa material alteration of a building, it isnot necessary, as regards the Building

Regulations, to upgrade access to thebuilding entrance from the site boundaryand from on-site car parking whereprovided. However, attention is drawn tothe note in paragraph 1 about the DDA.

Material changes of use

0.10 Under regulation 6, as amended,where there is a material change of use ofthe whole of a building to a hotel or boardinghouse, an institution, a public building or

a shop, the building must be upgraded,if necessary, so as to comply with M1(Access and use). The terms institution,public building and shop are explainedin regulation 2. In particular, it should benoted that shop includes use as arestaurant, bar or public house.

0.11 Under regulation 6, as amended, ifan existing building undergoes a changeof use such thatpartis used as a hotel or

boarding house, an institution, a publicbuilding or a shop, such work if any shall becarried out as is necessary to ensure that:

U iii>>Liviito gain access to that part from the siteboundary and from on-site car parkingwhere provided, either by means of anindependent access or by means of aroute to and through the building;

U >>ivVi->VVi

and use); andU >>>ViiVi`i`]

or in connection with, that part complywith Requirement M1: if users of that parthave the use of sanitary convenienceselsewhere in the building, there mustbe reasonable provision for people togain access to and use that sanitaryaccommodation, upgraded if need be.

As in the case of extensions, the Access

Statement provides an opportunity fordevelopers to explain how they haveassessed what is reasonable provision.

0.12 Where a material change of useresults in a building being used in part as ahotel or boarding house, institution, publicbuilding or shop, and in part as a dwelling,regard should be had to the guidance inSections 1 to 5 of this Approved Document

in relation to the relevant non-domesticaccommodation and to the common parts(see also MIXED USE DEVELOPMENTunder Use of Guidance).

Car parking and setting down

0.13 Part M applies to those features,outside the building, which are needed toprovide access to the building from theedge of the site and from car parking andsetting down points within the site.

What requirements apply

0.14 If Part M applies, reasonable provisionshould be made in:

i. Buildings other than dwellings

a. so that people, regardless of disability,age or gender, can reach the principalentrance to the building and otherentrances described in this ApprovedDocument from the site boundary,

from car parking within the site, andfrom other buildings on the same site(such as a university campus, a schoolor a hospital);

b. so that elements of the building do notconstitute a hazard to users, especiallypeople with impaired sight, but ratherassist in wayfinding;

c. so that people, regardless of disability,age or gender, can have access into,and within, any storey of the buildingand to the buildings facilities, subjectto the usual gender-related conventionsregarding sanitary accommodation;

d. for suitable accommodation for peoplein wheelchairs, or people with otherdisabilities, in audience or spectatorseating;

e. for aids to communication for peoplewith an impairment of hearing or sightin auditoria, meeting rooms, receptionareas, ticket offices and at informationpoints; and

GENERAL GUIDANCE M


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f. for sanitary accommodation for theusers of the building.

ii. Dwellings

a. so that people, including disabledpeople, can reach the principal, orsuitable alternative, entrance to thedwelling from the point of access;

b. so that people, including disabledpeople, can gain access into and withinthe principal storey of the dwelling; and

c. for WC provision at no higher storeythan the principal storey.

Principal storey is defined inRequirement M4.

Educational establishments0.15 From 1 April 2001, maintained schoolsceased to have exemption from the BuildingRegulations. Certain school-specificstandards relating to Parts K and Mcontained in the DfES 1997 ConstructionalStandards as described in CircularDfES/0142/2001 are subsumed in thisrevision to AD M (see 1.33 Note re: (l) and(m), 1.36, 1.37 (b) and 3.51 Note re: (c),(d) and refuges).

0.16 Purpose-built student livingaccommodation, including that in the formof flats as defined in regulation 2(1), shouldbe treated as hotel/motel accommodationin respect of space requirements andinternal facilities (see 4.17 to 4.24).

Historic buildings

0.17 Historic buildings include:

a. listed buildings,

b. buildings situated in conservation areas,

c. buildings which are of architectural andhistorical interest and which are referredto as a material consideration in a localauthoritys development plan,

d. buildings of architectural and historicinterest within national parks, areas ofoutstanding natural beauty and worldheritage sites,

e. vernacular buildings of traditional formand construction.

0.18 The need to conserve the specialcharacteristics of such historic buildingsmust be recognised. They are a finiteresource with cultural importance. Insuch work the aim should be to improveaccessibility where and to the extent that it

is practically possible, always provided thatthe work does not prejudice the characterof the historic building, or increase the riskof long-term deterioration to the buildingfabric or fittings. In arriving at an appropriatebalance between historic buildingconservation and accessibility, it would beappropriate to take into account the adviceof the local authoritys conservation andaccess officers, and English Heritage orCADW: Welsh Historic Monuments, as well

as the views of local access groups, inorder to make the building as accessibleas possible.

0.19 Particular issues relating to work inhistoric buildings that warrant sympathetictreatment and where advice from otherscould therefore be beneficial include:

a. restoring the historic character ofa building that had been subject toprevious inappropriate alteration,

e.g. replacement windows, doorsand rooflights;

b. rebuilding a former historic building(e.g. following a fire or filling in a gapsite in a terrace);

c. the choice of appropriate constructionmaterials and techniques, e.g. makingprovisions enabling the fabric to breatheto control moisture and potential long-term decay problems: see InformationSheet No. 4 from The Society for theProtection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB).

Access statements

0.20 Much of the guidance in thisApproved Document is based on BS8300:2001 Design of buildings and theirapproaches to meet the needs of disabledpeople Code of Practice. It is thereforeby derivation based largely on the

ergonomic studies carried out to supportthe British Standard. As such, it mayappear to be more prescriptive than otherApproved Documents in the Building

M GENERAL GUIDANCE


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Regulations series. It must always beborne in mind however that the guidancecontained in this AD is designed to indicateone way in which the Requirements may bemet. There may be other, equally satisfactory,ways of meeting the Requirements.

Appropriate solutions to access problemsmay vary depending on the size, scale,nature and intended use of the building.This may be particularly true when appliedto existing buildings where constraints ofstructure and context may make genericsolutions impracticable.

0.21 To assist building control bodies inmaking judgements about whether proposalsmake reasonable provision, therefore, it isrecommended that an Access Statementshould be provided at the time plans aredeposited, a building notice is given ordetails of a project are given to an approvedinspector, and updated to reflect decisionsreached on site. It should be noted thatguidance on access in the planning system(Planning and access for disabled people A good practice guide published by ODPM)recommends provision of an AccessStatement to identify the philosophy and

approach to inclusive design adopted, thekey issues of the particular scheme andthe sources of advice and guidance used.An additional benefit of providing anAccess Statement is that it should set outat the time of the application most of theinformation needed by a building controlbody, thus assisting the dialogue betweenthe applicant and building control.

0.22 An Access Statement provided for

building control purposes should be seenas complementary to, and as a developmentof, the information provided for planningpurposes, rather than as a separatedocument. It may indeed be beneficial tomaintain and update such a document asthe building work progresses in order toprovide the end-user of the building, whomay have ongoing obligations under theDDA, with a record of decisions madewhich had an impact on accessibility, and

of the rationale for such decisions.0.23 At its very simplest, such a statementmight record that the intention of the client,

designer or design team (the applicant)was to comply where appropriate with theguidance in the AD, and to indicate in whatrespects it was considered appropriate.Where an applicant wishes to depart fromthe guidance in Approved Document M

to achieve a better solution using newtechnologies (e.g. infrared activatedcontrols), to provide a more convenientsolution or to address the constraints ofan existing building, the Statement shouldset out the reasons for departing from theguidance and the rationale for the designapproach adopted. Examples of evidencethat might be cited to support such anapproach might include:

application of the recommendationsin BS 8300 where these differ from theprovisions, or are not covered, in AD M;

results of current validated research(published (say) in the last 5 years);

outcome of consultations with otherparties, e.g. conservation officers,English Heritage or CADW, local accessofficers, etc.;

convincing arguments that an alternative

solution will achieve the same, a betteror a more convenient outcome.

0.24 In the case of extensions andmaterial changes of use of buildings otherthan dwellings, and particularly in the caseof historic buildings, such a statement willallow an applicant to identify the constraintsimposed by the existing structure and itsimmediate environment and to proposecompensatory measures where full access

proves to be impracticable or unreasonable.This will allow for an explanation to beprovided and assessed in situations wherea less-than-fully accessible access route isproposed to an extension, or to a buildingor part of a building subject to a materialchange of use; for example, where a sub-leaseholder, in a multi-occupancy building,plans to make a material change of useof the top floor premises into a rooftoprestaurant, but for good reason has been

unable to obtain landlord consent to alterthe common parts.

GENERAL GUIDANCE M


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0.25 The Statement will also permit theapplicant to identify buildings or particularparts of buildings where it would be eitherreasonable for access to be restricted orunreasonable to expect certain groupsof people to require access, for example

where hazardous materials are handled,or in certain manufacturing processes, orareas where archiving and bulk-handlingprocesses are carried out, any of whichmight create hazards for children, somedisabled people or frail elderly people.

0.26 If, in the case of a relevant materialchange of use, it is impracticable to makethe existing principal entrance or any otherappropriate existing entrance suitable foruse by particular groups of people, or toprovide a new entrance which is suitable,the Access Statement should state why itis not practicable to adjust the existingentrance or provide a suitable new entrance.

0.27 If, in the case of an extension, it isnot intended to provide a fully compliantindependent access, and the Limit onApplication of Requirement M3 does notapply, the Access Statement should statewhy a fully compliant independent access

is not considered reasonably practicable.

0.28 Further guidance on AccessStatements, from inception of a project to thebuilding in use, is expected to be publishedby the Disability Rights Commission andwill be available on the DRC website atwww.drc-gb.org.

Definitions

0.29 The following meanings apply to

terms throughout this Approved Document.Access, approach, entry or exit.

Accessible, with respect to buildingsor parts of buildings, means that people,regardless of disability, age or gender,are able to gain access.

Contrast visually, when used to indicatethe visual perception of one element ofthe building, or fitting within the building,against another means that the differencein light reflectance value between the twosurfaces is greater than 30 points. Forfurther information, reference should be

made to Colour, contrast and perception Design guidance for internal builtenvironments Reading University).

Dwelling means a house or a flat (flatis defined in regulation 2(1)). However,new blocks of flats built as student

accommodation are to be treated as thoughthey are hotel/motel accommodation inrespect of space requirements and internalfacilities (see 4.17 to 4.24).

Level, with respect to the surfaces of alevel approach, access routes and landingsassociated with steps, stairs and ramps meanspredominantly level, but with a maximumgradient along the direction of travel of 1:60.

Principal entrance, the entrance which a

visitor not familiar with the building wouldnormally expect to approach.

Suitable, with respect to means of accessand facilities, means that they are designedfor use by people regardless of disability,age or gender, but subject to the usualgender-related conventions regardingsanitary accommodation.

Usable, with respect to buildings orparts of buildings, means that they areconvenient for independent use.

0.30 The following meanings apply only toterms used in the sections on dwellings inthis Approved Document.

Common, serving more than one dwelling.

Habitable room, for the purpose ofdefining the principal storey, means a roomused, or intended to be used, for dwellingpurposes, including a kitchen but not a

bathroom or a utility room.Maisonette, a self-contained dwelling,but not a dwelling-house, which occupiesmore than one storey in a building.

Point of access, the point at which aperson visiting a dwelling would normallyalight from a vehicle which may be withinor outside the plot, prior to approachingthe dwelling.

Principal entrance, the entrance whicha visitor not familiar with the dwellingwould normally expect to approach orthe common entrance to a block of flats.

M GENERAL GUIDANCE


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Plot gradient, the gradient measuredbetween the finished floor level of thedwelling and the point of access.

Steeply sloping plot, a plot gradient ofmore than 1:15.

GENERAL GUIDANCE M


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OBJECTIVES

1.1 The aim is to provide a suitable

means of access for people from theentrance point at the boundary of the site,and from any car parking that is providedon the site, to the building. It is alsoimportant that routes between buildingswithin a complex are also accessible.

1.2 In designing an approach to thebuilding, it should be recognised thatchanges in level are difficult for manypeople to negotiate, including wheelchair

users, people who need to use walkingaids and people with impaired sight. Accessroutes that are too narrow can also make itdifficult for people to pass each other.

1.3 It is important to be aware thatpeoples capabilities vary. For example,for some people, a stair is easier to usethan a ramp.

1.4 The building should be designed,within the overall constraints of space,

so that the difference in level between theentrance storey and the site entry pointis minimised.

1.5 It is also important that potentialhazards on access routes adjacent tobuildings, e.g. open windows, are avoidedso that people, particularly children andthose with impaired sight or hearing, arenot injured.

Note: The publication Inclusive Mobility:

A Guide to Best Practice on Access toPedestrian and Transport Infrastructuregives detailed guidance on designing theexternal environment.

Level approach from the boundary

of the site and car parking

Design considerations

1.6 As far as possible, access shouldbe level from the boundary of the site,

and from any car parking designated fordisabled people, to the principal entranceand any entrance used exclusively for staff

or, if either of these is not accessible, to anyalternative accessible entrances. If accessis generally required between entrances, orbetween alternative accessible entrancesoutside the building, this access shouldas far as possible be level. The site levelof accessible entrances should bedetermined accordingly.

1.7 Where a difference in level betweenthe boundary of the site or car parkingdesignated for disabled people and thebuilding is unavoidable due to site constraints,the approach may have a gentle gradient

over a long distance (for all or part/s of theapproach) or it may incorporate a numberof shorter parts at a steeper gradient, withlevel landings at intervals as rest points.Generally, gradients within the approachshould be as gentle as possible.

1.8 Where the gradient of the approach,whether over its whole length or in part, is1:20 or steeper, that part of the approachshould be designed as ramped access.

1.9 All access routes to principal, oralternative accessible, entrances should besurfaced so that people are able to travelalong them easily, without excessive effortand without the risk of tripping or falling.

1.10 There should be sufficient space forpeople to approach the building, passothers who are travelling in the oppositedirection and carry out all necessarymanoeuvres.

1.11 A surface width of 1800mm canaccommodate any amount of non-vehiculartraffic without the need for passing places.A surface width of 1200mm may beacceptable on restricted sites, subject to acase being made in the Access Statement.

1.12 It is important to reduce the risks topeople, particularly people with impairedsight, when approaching and passingaround the perimeter of the building under

all lighting conditions.

Section 1: Access to buildings otherthan dwellings

M1/M2


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Provisions

1.13 A level approach (from the boundaryof the site and from car parking spacesdesignated for disabled people to theprincipal entrance, to a staff entrance orto an alternative accessible entrance) will

satisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. it has a surface width of at least 1.5m,with passing places, free of obstructionsto a height of 2.1m;

b. passing places at least 1.8m wide andat least 2m long are provided withinsight of each other (the width of thepassing place may be included in thewidth of the level approach), but in anycase spaced at a distance no greater

than 50m;

c. the gradient along its length is eitherno steeper than 1:60 along its wholelength, or less steep than 1:20 with levellandings (see 1.26(k)) introduced foreach 500mm rise of the access (wherenecessary, between landings), in allcases with a cross-fall gradient nosteeper than 1:40;

d. its surface is firm, durable and slipresistant, with undulations not exceeding3mm under a 1m straight edge forformless materials. Inappropriatematerials might be loose sand or gravel;

e. where there are different materials alongthe access route, they have similarfrictional characteristics;

f. the difference in level at joints betweenpaving units is no greater than 5mm,with joints filled flush or, if recessed,no deeper than 5mm and no wider than10mm or, if unfilled, no wider than 5mm;

g. the route to the principal entrance(or alternative accessible entrance) isclearly identified and well lit;

h. the danger of inadvertently walking intoa vehicular access route is minimisedby providing a separate pedestrianroute and, where there is an uncontrolled

crossing point across the vehicular route,this is identified by a buff coloured blistersurface (see Diagram 1, and Guidanceon the use of Tactile Paving Surfaces).

On-site car parking andsetting down


1.14 People who need to travel tobuildings by car need to be able to park,have sufficient space to enter and leavetheir vehicle, on occasions move to therear of their vehicle, then walk, travel in awheelchair or with pushchairs or luggage,etc. to the principal entrance, the staff

entrance or any alternative accessibleentrance of the building.

Diagram 1 Tactile paving and anexample of its use at an

uncontrolled crossing

ACCESS TO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS M1/M2


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1.15 The surface of a parking baydesignated for disabled people, in particularthe area surrounding the bay, should allowthe safe transfer of a passenger or driver toa wheelchair and transfer from the parkingbay to the access route to the building

without undue effort, barriers to wheelchairsor hazards from tripping.

1.16 If people need to obtain ticketsfor pay and display parking, the ticketdispensing machines should be located ina way that allows a person in a wheelchair,or a person of short stature, to gain accessclose to the machine and reach the paymentand ticket dispensing functions.

1.17 People with mobility impairments

who arrive as passengers should be ableto alight from a vehicle close to theprincipal entrance, or alternative accessibleentrance, of the building in a way that isconvenient for entry into the building.

Note: Guidance is available in BS 8300 on:

the provision of parking baysdesignated for disabled people indifferent building types;

ticket dispensing machines;

vehicular control barriers; and

multi-storey car parks.

Provisions

1.18 Car parking and setting down willsatisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. at least one parking bay designated fordisabled people is provided on firm andlevel ground as close as feasible to the

principal entrance of the building;b. the dimensions of the designated

parking bays are as shown in Diagram 2(with a 1200mm accessibility zonebetween, and a 1200mm safety zone onthe vehicular side of, the parking bays,and with a dropped kerb when there isa pedestrian route at the other side ofthe parking bay);

c. the surface of the accessibility zone

is firm, durable and slip resistant, withundulations not exceeding 3mm under a1m straight edge for formless materials.Inappropriate materials might be loosesand or gravel;

d. ticket machines, where necessary forwheelchair users and people of shortstature, are adjacent to the designatedparking bays for disabled people andhave controls between 750mm and

1200mm above the ground and a plinthwhich does not project in front of theface of the machine in a way thatprevents its convenient use;

e. a clearly sign-posted setting down pointis located on firm and level ground asclose as practicable to the principal oralternative accessible entrance with itssurface level with the carriageway atthat point to allow convenient access toand from the entrance for people withwalking difficulties or people using awheelchair.

Diagram 2 Parking bay designated fordisabled people

M1/M2 ACCESS TO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS


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Ramped access

Note: Where there appears to be a conflictbetween the guidance in Part M and Part K,Part M takes precedence; see the Notes tothe Requirements.

Design considerations1.19 If site constraints necessitate anapproach of 1:20 or steeper, an approachincorporating ramped access should beprovided. Ramps are beneficial forwheelchair users and people pushingprams, pushchairs and bicycles.

1.20 Gradients should be as shallow aspracticable, as steep gradients createdifficulties for some wheelchair users who

lack the strength to propel themselves upa slope or have difficulty in slowing downor stopping when descending. However,there may be circumstances, e.g. in shopfit-outs, where a steeper gradient thanthe maximum shown in Table 1 may benecessary for a short distance. The casefor such a solution should be made in theAccess Statement.

1.21 Ramps are also not necessarily safe

and convenient for ambulant disabled people.For example, some people who can walk buthave restricted mobility find it more difficultto negotiate a ramp than a stair. In addition,adverse weather conditions increase therisk of slipping on a ramp. It is thereforebeneficial to have steps as well as a ramp.

1.22 Some people need to be able to stopfrequently; for instance to regain strengthor breath, or to ease pain.

1.23 Wheelchair users need adequatespace to stop on landings, to open andpass through doors without having toreverse into circulation routes or to facethe risk of rolling back down slopes.

1.24 Some people have a weakness onone side. This leads to a requirement forsupport at both sides of ramps.

1.25 If the total rise of a ramped approachis too high, it can be unacceptably tiringfor

wheelchair users and some people withwalking difficulties, even if a number of restlandings are provided.

Note: Guidance is given in BS 8300 on:

lighting ramped access.

Provisions

1.26 A ramped access will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. either it is readily apparent or theapproach to it is clearly sign-posted;

b. the gradient of a ramp flight and its goingbetween landings are in accordancewith Table 1 and Diagram 3;

c. no flight has a going greater than 10m,or a rise of more than 500mm;

Table 1 Limits for ramp gradientsGoing of a flight Maximum gradient Maximum rise

10m 1:20 500mm5m 1:15 333mm2m 1:12 166mm

Note:

For goings between 2m and 10m, it is acceptable to interpolatebetween the maximum gradients, i.e. 1:14 for a 4m going or 1:19 fora 9m going (see Diagram 3).

d. there is an alternative means of accessfor wheelchair users, e.g. a lift, whenthe total rise is greater than 2m;

e. it has a surface width between walls,upstands or kerbs of at least 1.5m;

Diagram 3 Relationship of ramp

gradient to the going ofa flight



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f. the ramp surface is slip resistant,especially when wet, and of a colourthat contrasts visually with that of thelandings;

g. the frictional characteristics of the rampand landing surfaces are similar;

h. there is a landing at the foot and headof the ramp at least 1.2m long and clearof any door swings or other obstructions;

i. any intermediate landings are at least1.5m long and clear of any door swingsor other obstructions;

j. intermediate landings at least 1800mmwide and 1800mm long are provided aspassing places when it is not possible

for a wheelchair user to see from oneend of the ramp to the other or theramp has three flights or more;

k. all landings are level, subject to amaximum gradient of 1:60 along theirlength and a maximum cross-fallgradient of 1:40;

l. there is a handrail on both sides;

m. there is a kerb on the open side of anyramp or landing at least 100mm high,

which contrasts visually with the rampor landing in addition to any guardingrequired under Part K;

n. clearly sign-posted steps are provided,in addition, when the rise of the rampis greater than 300mm (equivalent to2 x 150mm steps).

Stepped access

Note: Where there appears to be a conflict

between the guidance in Part M and Part K,Part M takes precedence; see the Notes tothe Requirements.


1.27 People with impaired sight risktripping or losing their balance if there isno warning that steps provide a changein level. The risk is most hazardous at thehead of a flight of steps when a personis descending.

1.28 The warning should be placedsufficiently in advance of the hazard toallow time to stop and not be so narrowthat it might be missed in a single stride.

1.29 Materials for treads should notpresent a slip hazard, especially when

the surface is wet.

1.30 People should be able to appreciateeasily where to place their feet byhighlighting nosings and avoidingopen rises.

1.31 People who wear callipers or whohave stiffness in hip or knee joints areparticularly at risk of tripping or catchingtheir feet beneath nosings. People witha weakness on one side or with a sight

impairment need the dimensions of thetread to be sufficient for them to be ableto place their feet square onto it. If thegoing is towards the upper end of thedimensional range, the flight may rise toa greater height without the need for anintermediate landing, as the tread issufficiently deep to allow a person to standand rest at any point within the flight. Itshould be noted that excessive rounding

of nosings reduces the effective going.1.32 Many ambulant disabled people findit easier to negotiate a flight of steps than aramp and, for these people, the presenceof handrails for support is essential.

Note: Guidance is given in BS 8300 on:

lighting stepped access; and

slip resistance (Annex C).

Provisions

1.33 A stepped access will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. a level landing is provided at the topand bottom of each flight;

b. the unobstructed length of each landingis not less than 1200mm;

c. a corduroy hazard warning surfaceis provided at top and bottom landingsof a series of flights to give advance

warning of a change in level inaccordance with Diagram 4;



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d. where there is side access onto anintermediate landing, a corduroy

hazard warning surface 400mm deepis provided either on the intermediatelanding 400mm from both upper andlower flights, if there is sufficient spaceto accommodate the surface outsidethe line of the side access, or within theside access 400mm from the intermediatelanding if there is a continuous handrailopposite the side access;

e. no doors swing across landings;

f. it has flights whose surface widthbetween enclosing walls, strings orupstands is not less than 1.2m;

g. there are no single steps;

h. the rise of a flight between landings

contains no more than 12 risers for agoing of less than 350mm and no morethan 18 risers for a going of 350mm orgreater (see Diagram 5);

i. all nosings are made apparent bymeans of a permanently contrastingmaterial 55mm wide on both the treadand the riser;

j. the projection of a step nosing over thetread below is avoided but, if necessary,

not more than 25mm (see Diagram 6);

Diagram 4 Stepped access key dimensions and use of hazard warning surface



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k. the rise and going of each step isconsistent throughout a flight;

l. the rise of each step is between 150mm

and 170mm, except adjacent to existingbuildings where, due to dimensionalconstraints, the case for a different riseis argued in the Access Statement;

m. the going of each step is between280mm and 425mm;

n. rises are not open;

o. there is a continuous handrail on eachside of a flight and landings;

p. additional handrails divide the flight intochannels not less than 1m wide and notmore than 1.8m wide where the overallunobstructed width is more than 1.8m.

Note: In respect of 1.33(l) and (m), forschool buildings, the preferred dimensionsare a rise of 150mm, and a going of 280mm.

Handrails to external stepped and

ramped access

Design considerations1.34 People who have physical difficulty innegotiating changes of level need the helpof a handrail that can be gripped easily,is comfortable to touch and, preferably,provides good forearm support.

1.35 Handrails should be spaced awayfrom the wall and rigidly supported in away that avoids impeding finger grip.

1.36 Handrails should be set at heightsthat are convenient for all users of thebuilding and should extend safely beyondthe top and bottom of a flight of steps, ora ramp, to give both stability and warningof the presence of a change in level.Consideration should be given to the

provision of a second handrail on stairsin a wide range of building types, andparticularly in schools, for use by childrenand people of short stature.

Provisions

1.37 Handrailing to external ramped andstepped access will satisfy RequirementM1 or M2 if:

Diagram 5 External steps and stairs key dimensions

Diagram 6 Examples of acceptable stepprofiles and key dimensions

for external stairs



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a. the vertical height to the top of theupper handrail from the pitch line of thesurface of a ramp, or a flight of steps,is between 900mm and 1000mm, andfrom the surface of a landing is between900 and 1100mm (see Diagram 5);

b. where there is full height structuralguarding, the vertical height to the top ofa second lower handrail from the pitchline of the surface of a ramp, or a flightof steps, is 600mm, where provided;

c. it is continuous across the flights andlandings of ramped or stepped access;

d. it extends at least 300mm horizontallybeyond the top and bottom of a rampedaccess, or the top and bottom nosing

of a flight or flights of steps, while notprojecting into an access route;

e. it contrasts visually with the backgroundagainst which it is seen, without beinghighly reflective;

f. its surface is slip resistant and not coldto the touch;

g. it terminates in a way that reduces therisk of clothing being caught;

h. its profile is either circular with a diameterof between 40 and 45mm, or ovalpreferably with a width of 50mm(see Diagram 7);

i. it protrudes no more than 100mm intothe surface width of the ramped orstepped access where this wouldimpinge on the stair width requirementof Part B1;

j. there is a clearance of between 60 and

75mm between the handrail and anyadjacent wall surface;

k. there is a clearance of at least 50mmbetween a cranked support and theunderside of the handrail;

l. its inner face is located no more than50mm beyond the surface width of theramped or stepped access.

Hazards on access routes


1.38 Features of a building that occasionallyobstruct an access route, particularly ifthey are partially transparent and thereforeindistinct, or cause a danger overhead,should not present a hazard to building users.

Provisions

1.39 Requirement M1 or M2 will besatisfied if:

a. where there is a projection of more than100mm, during normal use, onto anaccess route, windows and doors(excluding fire escape doors) that swingoutwards towards an access route, orother projecting features, are protectedby guarding, which incorporates a kerb

or other solid barrier that can be detectedusing a cane at ground level to directpeople around the potential hazard(see Diagram 8);


Diagram 7 Handrail design


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b. areas below stairs or ramps where thesoffit is less than 2.1m above groundlevel are protected by guarding and lowlevel cane detection, or a permanentbarrier giving the same degree ofprotection.

Diagram 8 Avoiding hazards on access routes



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M1/M2

OBJECTIVES

2.1 The aim for all new buildings is for

the principal entrance or entrances andany main staff entrance, and any lobbies,to be accessible.

2.2 Where it is not possible, e.g. in anexisting building, for the principal or mainstaff entrance or entrances to be accessible,an alternative accessible entrance shouldbe provided.

2.3 It is important to reduce the risks topeople when entering the building.

Accessible entrances


2.4 Steeply sloping or restricted sitessometimes make it impossible for theprincipal or main staff entrance to beaccessible, in which case an alternativeaccessible entrance may be necessary.

2.5 Accessible entrances should beclearly sign-posted and easily recognisable.Any structural elements, for examplesupports for a canopy, are useful inidentifying the entrance, but should notpresent a hazard.

2.6 The route from the exterior acrossthe threshold should provide weatherprotection, and not present a barrier forwheelchair users or a trip hazard for otherpeople. A level threshold is preferred,especially for doors in frequent use.

Note: Guidance on sign-posting is given inBS 8300, Inclusive mobility and the Signdesign guide.

Provisions

2.7 Accessible entrances will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. they are clearly sign-posted, incorporatingthe International Symbol of Access,from the edge of the site and from theprincipal entrance (if this is not accessible);

b. they are easily identified among theother elements of the building and theimmediate environment, e.g. by lightingand/or visual contrast;

c. any structural supports at the entrancedo not present a hazard for visuallyimpaired people;

d. there is a level landing at least 1500 x1500mm, clear of any door swings,immediately in front of the entrance andof a material that does not impede themovement of wheelchairs;

e. the threshold is level or, if a raisedthreshold is unavoidable, it has a totalheight of not more than 15mm, aminimum number of upstands andslopes, with any upstands higher than5mm chamfered or rounded;

f. any door entry systems are accessibleto deaf and hard of hearing people, andpeople who cannot speak;

g. weather protection is provided at

manual non-powered entrance doors;

h. internal floor surfaces adjacent to thethreshold are of materials that do notimpede the movement of wheelchairs,e.g. not coir matting, and changes infloor materials do not create a potentialtrip hazard;

i. where mat wells are provided, thesurface of the mat is level with thesurface of the adjacent floor finish;

j. where provided as an alternativeaccessible entrance, an accessibleinternal route is provided to the spacesserved by the principal or main staffentrances.

Doors to accessible entrances


2.8 Doors to the principal, or alternative

accessible, entrance should be accessibleto all, particularly wheelchair users andpeople with limited physical dexterity.

Section 2: Access into buildings otherthan dwellings


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Entrance doors may be manually operatedwithout powered assistance, or poweroperated under manual or automaticcontrol. Entrance doors should be capableof being held closed when not in use.

2.9 A non-powered manually operated

entrance door, fitted with a self-closingdevice capable of closing the door againstwind forces and the resistance of draughtseals is unlikely to be openable by manypeople, particularly those who are wheelchairusers or who have limited strength.

2.10 A powered door opening and closingsystem, either manually controlled orautomatically operated by sensors, is themost satisfactory solution for most people.

An automatic sliding door arrangement isparticularly beneficial as it avoids the risksassociated with automatic swing doorsand its use can make it possible to reducethe length of any entrance lobby.

2.11 Once open, all doors to accessibleentrances should be wide enough to allowunrestricted passage for a variety of users,including wheelchair users, people carryingluggage, people with assistance dogs, and

parents with pushchairs and small children.It should be noted that double buggies arewider than wheelchairs and that, whererelevant to the building type, this shouldbe borne in mind when determining anappropriate effective clear width for anentrance door. There may be circumstancesin existing buildings where it is notpracticable or cost-effective to adopt thepreferred effective clear widths for newbuildings. In such cases, the argument for

adopting the minimum dimensions forexisting buildings should be made in theAccess Statement.

2.12 People should be able to see otherpeople approaching from the oppositedirection, thereby allowing sufficient reactiontime for both parties to avoid a collision. Anyexceptions for reasons of privacy or securityshould be argued in the Access Statement.

Provisions

2.13 Doors to accessible entrances willsatisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. where required to be self-closing, apower-operated door opening andclosing system is used when throughcalculation and experience it appearsthat it will not be possible otherwise fora person to open the door using a forceno greater than 20N at the leading edge;

b. the effective clear width through asingle leaf door, or one leaf of a doubleleaf door, is in accordance with Table 2,and the rules for measurement are inaccordance with Diagram 9;

c. unless it can be argued otherwise in theAccess Statement, e.g. for reasons ofsecurity, door leaves and side panelswider than 450mm have vision panelstowards the leading edge of the doorwhose vertical dimensions include atleast the minimum zone, or zones, ofvisibility between 500mm and 1500mmfrom the floor, if necessary interruptedbetween 800mm and 1150mm abovethe floor, e.g. to accommodate an

intermediate horizontal rail (see Diagram 9).

Table 2 Minimum effective clearwidths of doors

Direction and New Existingwidth of approach buildings buildings

(mm) (mm)

Straight-on (without a turn or 800 750oblique approach)

At right angles to an access route 800 750

at least 1500mm wide

At right angles to an access route 825 775at least 1200mm wide

External doors to buildings used 1000 775by the general public

Note:

The effective clear width is the width of the opening measured atright angles to the wall in which the door is situated from the outsideof the door stop on the door closing side to any obstruction onthe hinge side, whether this be projecting door opening furniture,a weather board, the door or the door stop (see Diagram 9). Forspecific guidance on the effective clear widths of doors in sportsaccommodation, refer to Access for Disabled People.

M1/M2 ACCESS INTO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS


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ACCESS INTO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS M1/M2

Manually operated non-poweredentrance doors


2.14 Self-closing devices on manuallyoperated non-powered swing doorsdisadvantage many people who havelimited upper body strength, are pushingprams or are carrying heavy objects.

2.15 A space alongside the leading edge

of a door should be provided to enablea wheelchair user to reach and grip thedoor handle, then open the door withoutreleasing hold on the handle and withoutthe footrest colliding with the return wall.

2.16 Door furniture on manually operatednon-powered doors should be easy tooperate by people with limited manualdexterity, and be readily apparent againstthe background of the door.

Provisions

2.17 Manually operated non-poweredentrance doors will satisfy Requirement M1or M2 if:

a. the opening force at the leading edge ofthe door is no greater than 20N;

b. there is an unobstructed space of atleast 300mm on the pull side of thedoor between the leading edge of thedoor and any return wall, unless thedoor is a powered entrance door (seeDiagram 9);

c. where fitted with a latch, the dooropening furniture can be operated withone hand using a closed fist, e.g. alever handle;

d. all door opening furniture contrastsvisually with the surface of the door andis not cold to the touch.

Powered entrance doors


2.18 Activation (e.g. motion sensors andpush buttons), safety features and thetime-lapse allowed for entry and exitthrough powered door systems shouldbe carefully considered to suit the needsof people who cannot react quickly.

2.19 Manual controls for powered entrancedoors should be clearly distinguishableagainst the background and not locatedso that a person, having used the control,

needs to move to avoid contact with thedoor as it opens.

2.20 Revolving doors are not consideredaccessible. They create particular difficulties,and risk of injury, for people with assistancedogs, people with visual impairment ormobility problems and for parents withchildren and/or pushchairs. If a revolvingdoor is used, an entrance door complyingwith 2.17 or 2.21 should be providedimmediately adjacent to it and signedto show that it is accessible.

Diagram 9 Effective clear width and visibility requirements of doors


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Provisions

2.21 Powered entrance doors will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. they have a sliding, swinging or foldingaction controlled:

manually by a push pad, card swipe,coded entry or remote control, or

automatically by a motion sensoror other proximity sensor, e.g. acontact mat;

b. when installed, automatic sensors areset so that automatically operateddoors open early enough, and stayopen long enough, to permit safe entryand exit;

c. when they are swing doors that opentowards people approaching thedoors, visual and audible warningsare provided to warn people of theirautomatic operation when both openingand shutting;

d. they incorporate a safety stop that isactivated if the doors begin to closewhen a person is passing through;

e. they revert to manual control or fail safein the open position in the event of apower failure;

f. when open, they do not project into anyadjacent access route;

g. any manual controls for powered doorsystems are located between 750mmand 1000mm above floor level, operablewith a closed fist and, when on theopening side of the door, are set back

1400mm from the leading edge of thedoor when fully open and contrastvisually with the background againstwhich they are seen.

Glass entrance doors and

glazed screens

Note: Where there appears to be a conflictbetween the guidance in Part M and Part N,Part M takes precedence, see the Notes tothe Requirements.


2.22 People with visual impairment shouldbe in no doubt as to the location of glassentrance doors, especially when they arewithin a glazed screen. The choice of adifferent style of manifestation for the

door and the glazed screen can help todifferentiate between them.

2.23 The presence of the door should beapparent not only when it is shut but alsowhen it is open. Where it can be held open,steps should be taken to avoid peoplebeing harmed by walking into the door.

Provisions

2.24 Glass entrance doors and glazed

screens will satisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:a. they are clearly defined with manifestation

on the glass at two levels, 850 to1000mm and 1400 to 1600mm abovethe floor, contrasting visually with thebackground seen through the glass(both from inside and outside) in alllighting conditions;

b. manifestation takes the form of a logo orsign at least 150mm high (repeated if on

a glazed screen), or a decorative featuresuch as broken lines or continuousbands, at least 50mm high;

c. glazed entrance doors, where adjacentto, or forming part of, a glazed screen,are clearly differentiated from it by theprovision of a high-contrast strip at thetop and on both sides;

d. glass entrance doors, where capableof being held open, are protected by

guarding to prevent the leading edgeconstituting a hazard.

Entrance lobbies


2.25 There are a number of reasons forproviding a lobby:

U >v>

U to maintain comfort by controlling

draughtsU Vi>iiV

U to provide transitional lighting.



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ACCESS INTO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS M1/M2

2.26 The provision of a lobby may makeit possible for an external door to have aself-closing device with a lower power sizerating than might otherwise be the case.However, even in these circumstances, itmay not be possible for the entrance door

to meet the opening force criterion of 20Nmaximum (see 2.9).

2.27 The lobby should be large enoughand of a shape to allow a wheelchair useror a person pushing a pram to move clearof one door before opening the seconddoor. The lobby should also be capableof accommodating a companion helping awheelchair user to open doors and guidethe wheelchair through. The minimumlength of the lobby is related to the chosendoor size, the swing of each door, theprojection of the door into the lobby andthe size of an occupied wheelchair with acompanion pushing. Where both doors ofa lobby are automatic sliding doors, thelength can be reduced as no door swingsare involved, nor is space required formanual operation. Similarly, if reducedswing door sets are used, the length canbe reduced because the projection of the

door into the lobby is reduced.2.28 The aim should be to reducepotential hazards from local obstructionswithin the lobby and minimise distractingreflections from glazing. It is also desirableif rainwater from shoes or the wheels ofwheelchairs is not taken into the buildingwhere it becomes a potential slip hazard,e.g. by the use of cleaning mats.

Provisions

2.29 Entrance lobbies will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. their length with single swing doors isin accordance with Diagram 10;

b. their length with double swing doors isat least (DP1 + DP2 + 1570mm);

c. their width (excluding any projectionsinto the space) is at least 1200mm (or(DL1 or DL2) + 300mm) whichever is the

greater when single leaf doors are used,and at least 1800mm when double leafdoors are used;

d. glazing within the lobby does not createdistracting reflections;

e. floor surface materials within thelobby do not impede the movement ofwheelchairs, e.g. not coir matting, andchanges in floor materials do not create

a potential trip hazard;

f. the floor surface helps to removerainwater from shoes and wheelchairs;

g. where mat wells are provided, thesurface of the mat is level with thesurface of the adjacent floor finish;

h. any columns, ducts and similar fullheight elements that project into thelobby by more than 100mm are

protected by a visually contrastingguard rail.


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Diagram 10 Key dimensions for lobbies with single leaf doors



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OBJECTIVE

3.1 The objective is for all people to

travel vertically and horizontally withinbuildings conveniently and withoutdiscomfort in order to make use of allrelevant facilities. This objective relatesin the main, but not exclusively, to theprovision of sufficient space for wheelchairmanoeuvre and design features that make itpossible for people to travel independentlywithin buildings.

Entrance hall and reception area

Desi