How wide should a wheelchair ramp be?

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:

A Fire Exit with Restricted Space

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<<.

A Historic Site With Restricted Space

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 Widths Available:

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.

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.

Two platforms can be secured together to create other widths (ones wider than the minimum width requirement).

Ramp Gradient

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