Access to and use of buildings: Approved Document M

O N L I N E V E R S I O N M1/M2 Section 1: Access to buildings other than dwellings OBJECTIVES or, if either of these is not accessible, to any alternative accessible entrances. If access 1.1 The aim is to provide a suitable is generally required between entrances, or means of access for people from the between alternative accessible entrances entrance point at the boundary of the site, outside the building, this access should and from any car parking that is provided as far as possible be level. The site level on the site, to the building. It is also of accessible entrances should be important that routes between buildings determined accordingly. within a complex are also accessible. 1.7 Where a difference in level between 1.2 In designing an approach to the the boundary of the site or car parking building, it should be recognised that designated for disabled people and the changes in level are difficult for many building is unavoidable due to site constraints, people to negotiate, including wheelchair the approach may have a gentle gradient users, people who need to use walking over a long distance (for all or part/s of the aids and people with impaired sight. Access approach) or it may incorporate a number routes that are too narrow can also make it of shorter parts at a steeper gradient, with difficult for people to pass each other. level landings at intervals as rest points. 1.3 It is important to be aware that Generally, gradients within the approach people’s capabilities vary. For example, should be as gentle as possible. for some people, a stair is easier to use 1.8 Where the gradient of the approach, than a ramp. whether over its whole length or in part, is 1.4 The building should be designed, 1:20 or steeper, that part of the approach within the overall constraints of space, should be designed as ramped access. so that the difference in level between the 1.9 All access routes to principal, or entrance storey and the site entry point alternative accessible, entrances should be is minimised. surfaced so that people are able to travel 1.5 It is also important that potential along them easily, without excessive effort hazards on access routes adjacent to and without the risk of tripping or falling. buildings, e.g. open windows, are avoided 1.10 There should be sufficient space for so that people, particularly children and people to approach the building, pass those with impaired sight or hearing, are others who are travelling in the opposite not injured. direction and carry out all necessary Note: The publication ‘Inclusive Mobility: manoeuvres. A Guide to Best Practice on Access to 1.11 A surface width of 1800mm can Pedestrian and Transport Infrastructure’ accommodate any amount of non-vehicular gives detailed guidance on designing the traffic without the need for passing places. external environment. A surface width of 1200mm may be Level approach from the boundary acceptable on restricted sites, subject to of the site and car parking agreement with the building control body. 1.12 It is important to reduce the risks to Design considerations people, particularly people with impaired 1.6 As far as possible, access should sight, when approaching and passing be level from the boundary of the site, around the perimeter of the building under and from any car parking designated for all lighting conditions. disabled people, to the principal entrance and any entrance used exclusively for staff Access to and use of buildings other than dwellings Approved Document M Volume 2 16 O N L I N E V E R S I O N