Condition Improvement Fund (CIF)

For further information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/condition-improvement-fund

Accessibility & Building Compliance For School Projects

Improving accessibility and ensuring building compliance are essential goals for school projects supported by the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF).

Approval from a building control officer is typically required when installing access ramps or steps, and these installations must comply with Parts M and K of the Building Regulations.

For ramps and steps to be compliant, they should include the following features where applicable

• Yellow Tread Strips: These safety features assist individuals with impaired vision in identifying the edges of the system and any changes in level.
• 900mm Anti-Climb Infill Handrail: This feature helps prevent climbing or accidental falls through gaps and is commonly used in schools and public buildings. It ensures a continuous and secure handhold.
• 100mm High Rail: Handrails at 1100mm height can be fitted to any level section to enhance safety. Mesh Platform: A mesh platform efficiently channels water through, preventing surface puddling and potential freezing.
• Looped Trombone Ends: Added to the ends of a system to prevent clothing from snagging.
• Telescopic Legs: Adjustable legs that can be customised to accommodate various threshold heights.
• For school projects, ramps should be at least 1500mm wide, and the maximum gradient allowed is 1:12. Gradients between 1:12 and 1:20 are acceptable, provided the ramp length adheres to the specified limits. For guidance on the maximum ramp lengths corresponding to these gradients, please refer to the diagram below (see Doc M. Vol 2, Page 19, Table 1 & Diagram 3 / BS8300-1, Page 40).

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We offer solutions for both permanent and temporary requirements to suit various project specifications.

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Estimates can be returned within 24hrs if there is clear information given, including project address, drawings, photos and contact details.

Previous Success Stories

Oughtibridge Primary School

Requirement: We were assigned the task of replacing the deteriorating ramp leading to the modular building with a corrosion-resistant system capable of enduring various weather conditions. Additionally, we upgraded the current steep steps with a fully modular step system.

Our steel modular systems are fully galvanised to guarantee strong rust protection.

Wincanton Primary School

Requirement: Upgrading an aging wooden ramp with a compliant Rapid Ramp System.

This system needed to possess the necessary strength to endure impacts from electrically operated wheelchairs, provide support for users in the event of a fall, and feature handrails that met the specifications outlined in BS 6180:2011. Our ramp successfully meets all of these requirements.

Lord Derby Academy

Requirement: A ramp and accompanying access steps for a recently constructed modular classroom.

Our team completed the installation of the Rapid Ramp during the summer break.

Source: 

Crown, Department for Education, 16 October 2014, Condition Improvement Fund (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/condition-improvement-fund).