Access to and use of buildings: Approved Document M

HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL CIRCULATION IN BUILDINGS O N L I N E V E R S I O N M1/M2 OTHER THAN DWELLINGS Internal stairs Handrails to internal steps, stairs and ramps Design considerations 3.50 With the exception of the need for Design considerations hazard warning surfaces on landings, other 3.54 The design considerations for handrails design considerations for internal stairs are are as those for ‘Handrails to external as those for ‘Stepped access’ (see 1.29 stepped and ramped access’ in 1.34 to 1.36. to 1.32). It is not reasonable to require a hazard warning surface at the head of Provisions internal stairs since there is no recognised 3.55 Handrails to internal steps, stairs and warning surface for use internally which ramps will satisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if can be guaranteed not to constitute a trip they comply with Approved Document K, hazard when used alongside flooring sections 1–3. surfaces with different frictional resistance characteristics. However, designers should be aware of the potential risk of having a stair directly in line with an access route. For mobility-impaired people, a going of at least 300mm is preferred. Provisions 3.51 Internal stairs will satisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if they comply with Approved Document K, section 1. Note: Diagram 12 has been moved to Approved Document K, Section 1, all other numbering remains the same. Internal ramps Design considerations 3.52 With the exception of issues relating specifically to the external environment, the design considerations for internal ramps are as those for ‘Ramped access’ (see 1.19 to 1.25). It is worth reiterating that ramps are not necessarily safe and convenient for ambulant disabled people. For example, some people who can walk but have restricted mobility find it more difficult to negotiate a ramp than a stair. Unless, therefore, a ramp is short, has a shallow gradient and the rise is no more than the minimum that can be provided by two risers, steps should be provided as well as a ramp. Provisions 3.53 Internal ramps will satisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if they comply with Approved Document K, section 2. 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 37