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 Diagram 5 External steps and stairs – Diagram 6 E xamples of acceptable step key dimensions profles and key dimensions for external stairs k. the rise and going of each step is consistent throughout a flight; l. the rise of each step is between 150mm and 170mm, except adjacent to existing buildings where, due to dimensional constraints, the case for a different rise is agreed with the building control body; m. the going of each step is between 280mm and 425mm; n. rises are not open; o. there is a continuous handrail on each side of a flight and landings; p. additional handrails divide the flight into channels not less than 1m wide and not more than 1.8m wide where the overall unobstructed width is more than 1.8m. 1.36 Handrails should be set at heights Note: In respect of 1.33(l) and (m), for that are convenient for all users of the school buildings, the preferred dimensions building and should extend safely beyond are a rise of 150mm, and a going of 280mm. the top and bottom of a flight of steps, or Handrails to external stepped and a ramp, to give both stability and warning of the presence of a change in level. ramped access Consideration should be given to the Design considerations provision of a second handrail on stairs in a wide range of building types, and 1.34 People who have physical difficulty in particularly in schools, for use by children negotiating changes of level need the help and people of short stature. of a handrail that can be gripped easily, is comfortable to touch and, preferably, Provisions provides good forearm support. 1.37 Handrailing to external ramped and 1.35 Handrails should be spaced away stepped access will satisfy Requirement from the wall and rigidly supported in a M1 or M2 if: way that avoids impeding finger grip. Access to and use of buildings other than dwellings Approved Document M Volume 2 22 O N L I N E V E R S I O N