Published on Monday 6th December 2021
Wheelchair ramps for public use should be 1500mm wide or more. Ramps for dwellings should have a minimum width of 900mm. These are minimum requirements set out by the Buildings Regulations.
Wheelchair ramps for public use should be 1500mm wide or more. Ramps for dwellings should have a minimum width of 900mm. These are minimum requirements set out by the Buildings Regulations.
There are perhaps exceptions when a smaller width is unavoidable. However, it is at the building controller’s discretion if they accept this.
Example circumstances:
In the event of a fire, a wheelchair user must have fast access out of the building. So arguably, it is better to have wheelchair access than none in a circumstance where a 1500mm minimum width cannot be achieved.
Nevertheless, the specifier MUST attempt to achieve a design that is as close as possible to compliancy, with both Part M and K of the Building Regulations. This includes all compliant features such as infill handrail, yellow tread strips etc. >> More Information On Ramp Features<<.
Protected buildings need to be preserved; however, responsible adjustments must be made so that facilities can be compliant with DDA guidelines.
Therefore, a specifier working with a restricted historic space should attempt to achieve a design that is as close as possible to compliancy, with both Part M and K of the Building Regulations. This includes all compliant features such as infill handrail, yellow tread strips etc >> More Information On Ramp Features<<.
Rapid Ramp platforms are available in different widths. A wider platform can accommodate footfall travelling in two directions and provide turning space for transportation beds and electrically operated wheelchairs/scooters.
Two platforms can be secured together to create other widths (ones wider than the minimum width requirement).
A ramp’s gradient is just as crucial as the width. 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.
Often ramps for public use (whether to a building or space) can accomplish a minimum ramp gradient of 1:15 or a 1:20 gradient is frequently specified.
Often a dwelling ramp can accomplish a gradient of 1:12.
Diagram – The relationship of ramp gradient to the going of a flight
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.
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<<
EMAIL: [email protected]
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THE UK’S EXPERTS IN MODULAR RAMP SYSTEMS.
Rapid Ramp
10 Menzies Road, Ponswood Industrial Estate, St Leonards on Sea, TN38 9BB
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