Access to and use of buildings: Approved Document M

O N L I N E V E R S I O N M1/M2 ACCESS TO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS Ramped access Provisions Note: Where there appears to be a conflict 1.26 A ramped access will satisfy between the guidance in Part M and Part K, Requirement M1 or M2 if: Part M takes precedence; see the Notes to a. either it is readily apparent or the the Requirements. approach to it is clearly sign-posted; Design considerations b. the gradient of a ramp flight and its going between landings are in accordance 1.19 If site constraints necessitate an with Table 1 and Diagram 3; approach of 1:20 or steeper, an approach incorporating ramped access should be c. no flight has a going greater than 10m, provided. Ramps are beneficial for or a rise of more than 500mm; wheelchair users and people pushing prams, pushchairs and bicycles. 1.20 Gradients should be as shallow as Table 1 Limits for ramp gradients practicable, as steep gradients create Going of a flight Maximum gradient Maximum rise difficulties for some wheelchair users who 10m 1:20 500mm lack the strength to propel themselves up 5m 1:15 333mm a slope or have difficulty in slowing down 2m 1:12 166mm or stopping when descending. Note: For goings between 2m and 10m, it is acceptable to interpolate 1.21 Ramps are also not necessarily safe between the maximum gradients, i.e. 1:14 for a 4m going or 1:19 for a 9m going (see Diagram 3). and convenient for ambulant disabled people. For example, some people who can walk but have restricted mobility find it more difficult Diagram 3 Relationship of ramp to negotiate a ramp than a stair. In addition, gradient to the going of adverse weather conditions increase the a fight risk of slipping on a ramp. It is therefore beneficial to have steps as well as a ramp. 1.22 Some people need to be able to stop frequently; for instance to regain strength or breath, or to ease pain. 1.23 Wheelchair users need adequate space to stop on landings, to open and pass through doors without having to reverse into circulation routes or to face the risk of rolling back down slopes. 1.24 Some people have a weakness on one side. This leads to a requirement for support at both sides of ramps. 1.25 If the total rise of a ramped approach is too high, it can be unacceptably tiringfor wheelchair users and some people with d. there is an alternative means of access walking difficulties, even if a number of rest for wheelchair users, e.g. a lift, when landings are provided. the total rise is greater than 2m; Note: Guidance is given in BS 8300 on: e. it has a surface width between walls, upstands or kerbs of at least 1.5m; – lighting ramped access. Approved Document M Volume 2 Access to and use of buildings other than dwellings O N L I N E V E R S I O N 19