How Steep Can Ramps Be?

How Steep Can Ramps Be?

Published on Tuesday 16th November 2021

We advise that a ramp gradient should not be steeper than the maximum gradient and meet the minimum set by Part M of the Building Regulations. Preferably a shallow and practicable incline should be achieved.

We advise that a ramp gradient should not be steeper than the maximum gradient and meet the minimum set by Part M of the Building Regulations. Preferably a shallow and practicable incline should be achieved.

A steep ramp slope produces difficulties for wheelchair users, especially those with a lack of upper body strength to propel themselves up. Similarly, a steep gradient will make it difficult for a caregiver to push a hospital bed or wheelchair user safely.

The Part M regulations state that a ramp must meet a minimum gradient.

The maximum gradient that your ramp can reach is determined by the change in rise (aka the height) to overcome.

If the maximum gradient has been reached, a resting platform must be provided to allow the user to pause, as they may become tired and out of breath.

Diagram – The relationship of ramp gradient to the going of a flight

 The relationship of ramp gradient to the going of a flightLimits of ramp gradients

?A dwelling ramp often can often accomplish a gradient of 1:12.

 

Public access ramps often can accomplish a minimum ramp gradient of 1:15 and 1:20 gradient is frequently specified.

 

Diagram sources:

 

Widths of ramps

A ramp’s width is just as crucial as the gradient. Buildings and spaces for public use must have a minimum ramp width of 1500mm, while this is 900mm for dwellings.

ramps for public buildings ramps for homes

Other widths are available with our modular ramp system.  A wider platform can accommodate footfall travelling in two directions and provide turning space for transportation beds and electrically operated wheelchairs/scooters.

Complete list of widths available: 

  • 900mm – the recommended width for dwellings under Document M, Section 6 of the Building Regulations.
  • 1000mm – our standard modular wheelchair ramp for dwellings.
  • 1200mm – our slightly wider modular ramp.
  • 1500mm – the recommended width for modular ramps for public buildings.

Any of the above can be secured together to create almost any width.

>>Click For Further Information On Our Modular Ramps<<

Ramp Requirement

Are you needing a ramp? Request a quick quote or email [email protected] with the full project address, drawings, photos and contact details. 

Compliant and standard modular ramps are available.

fully compliant modular rampstandard modular ramp

Step Units

Alongside our modular metal ramps, we also provide our widely used and specified modular steps. Again, compliant, and standard versions are available

>>Learn more about our modular steps<<

>>Click Here For Further Information About Step Heights & Widths<<

 

CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTATION: 

EMAIL: [email protected]

Or fill in the quick quote form. 


CASE STUDIES

Access Steps, Amgen

Application : Public Building
Location : Cambridge
System : Fully Compliant Access Steps

Supply & Install

Chelmsford Waste Pipe Project

OVERCOMING AN ACCESS CHALLENGE

Application : Public Space
Location : Chelmsford
System : Standard Ramp System

Rapid Rental

Custom Wheelchair Ramps, Heigham Water Treatment Works

Application : Modular Building
Location : Norwich, Norfolk
System : Standard Ramp System

Supply & Install

External Ramps, Southend University Hospital

AN EXTERNAL RAMP DESIGN FOR AN EMERGENCY VILLAGE BUILDING

Application : Healthcare
Location : Southend-on-Sea, Essex
System : Fully Compliant Ramp

Supply & Install

GRP Ramp, University of the Arts

Application : Education
Location : London
System : Standard Ramp System

Supply & Install

Lincoln Cathedral

INTERNAL WHEELCHAIR ACCESS FROM THE MINSTER YARD

Application : Heritage
Location : Lincoln, East Midlands
System : Standard Ramp System

Supply & Install

THE UK’S EXPERTS IN MODULAR RAMP SYSTEMS.

Rapid Ramp

10 Menzies Road, Ponswood Industrial Estate, St Leonards on Sea, TN38 9BB

Hours:
8am - 5pm, Monday to Friday

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