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The Building Regulations 2010

M1 Access and use of buildings other

than dwellingsM2 Access to extensions to buildingsother than dwellings

M3 Sanitary conveniences in extensionsto buildings other than dwellings

MVOLUME 2 BUILDINGS OTHERTHAN DWELLINGSAPPROVED DOCUMENT

Access to and use of buildings

2015

edition

For use in England*

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Approved Document M Volume 2 Access to and use of buildings other than dwellings

Contents M

Contents

PAGE

Use of guidance 5

The approved documents 5

Limitations on requirements 5

Materials and workmanship 5

Mixed use development 6

The Workplace (Health, Safety andWelfare) Regulations 1992 6

The Equality Act 2010 and the EqualityAct 2010 (Disability) Regulations 2010 6

Relationship with guidance in

Approved Document K (Protectionfrom falling collision and impact) 7

The Requirements 8

Section 0: General guidance 11

Performance 11

Where the requirements apply 11

Application of Part M 11

Extensions of non-domestic

buildings 11

Material alterations ofnon-domestic buildings 12

Material changes of use 12

Car parking and setting down 12

What requirements apply 12

Educational establishments 13

Historic buildings 13

Access strategy 14Definitions 14

Section 1: Access to buildings otherthan dwellings 16

Objectives 16

Level approach from the boundaryof the site and car parking 16

On-site car parking and setting down 17

PAGE

Ramped access 19

Stepped access 20

Handrails to external stepped andramped access 22

Hazards on access routes 23

Section 2: Access into buildingsother than dwellings 24

Objectives 24

Accessible entrances 24

Doors to accessible entrances 24

Manually operated non-poweredentrance doors 25

Powered entrance doors 26

Glass doors and glazed screens 27

Entrance lobbies 27

Section 3: Horizontal and verticalcirculation in buildings other

than dwellings 29

Objective 29

Entrance hall and reception area 29

Internal doors 29

Corridors and passageways 31

Internal lobbies 32

Vertical circulation within the building 32

Provision of lifting devices 32

General requirements forlifting devices 33

Passenger lifts 33

Lifting platforms 35

Wheelchair platform stairlifts 36

Internal stairs 37

Internal ramps 37

Handrails to internal steps, stairsand ramps 37

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Access to and use of buildings other than dwellings Approved Document M Volume 2

PAGE

Section 4: Facilities in buildingsother than dwellings 38

Objectives 38

Audience and spectator facilities 38Refreshment facilities 40

Sleeping accommodation 42

Switches, outlets and controls 43

Aids to communication 45

Section 5: Sanitary accommodationin buildings other than dwellings 47

Objectives 47

Sanitary accommodation generally 47

Provision of toilet accommodation 48

Wheelchair-accessibile unisex toilets 48

Toilets in separate-sex washrooms 51

Wheelchair-accessible changingand shower facilities 52

Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms 56

Standards referred to 59

Other publications referred to 60

Index 63

DIAGRAMS

1. Tactile paving and an example ofits use at an uncontrolled crossing 17

2. Parking bay designated fordisabled people 18

3. Relationship of ramp gradient tothe going of a flight 19

4. Stepped access key dimensionsand use of hazard warning surface 21

5. External steps and stairs key dimensions 22

PAGE

6. Examples of acceptable stepprofiles and key dimensions forexternal stairs 22

7. Handrail design 23

Note: Diagram 8 has been moved toApproved Document K, Section 10,all other numbering remainsthe same

9. Effective clear width of doors 25

10. Key dimensions for lobbies withsingle leaf doors 28

11. Key dimensions associated withpassenger lifts 34

Note: Diagram 12 has been moved toApproved Document K, Section 1, allother numbering remains the same

13. An example of wheelchair spacesin a lecture theatre 39

14. Possible location of wheelchairspaces in front of a rear aisle 41

15. An example of wheelchair spaceprovision in a cinema or theatre 41

16. An example of a sharedrefreshment facility 42

17 One example of a wheelchair-accessible hotel bedroom withen-suite sanitary facilities 44

18. Unisex wheelchair-accessibletoilet with corner WC 50

19. Height and arrangement offittings in a unisex wheelchair-accessible toilet 50

20. Height of various fittings in toiletaccommodation 51

21. WC cubicle for ambulantdisabled people 52

22. An example of a self-containedchanging room for individual use 54

23. An example of a self-containedshower room for individual use 55

24. An example of a shower roomincorporating a corner WC forindividual use 56

M CONTENTS

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PAGE

25. An example of a bathroomincorporating a corner WC 57

26. Grab rails and fittings associatedwith a bath 58

Note: Diagrams 27 to 29 deleted refer toApproved Document M: Volume 1

Note: Diagram 30 has been moved toApproved Document K, Section 1, allother numbering remains the same

Note: Diagrams 31 and 32 deleted referto Approved Document M: Volume 1

TABLES1. Limits for ramp gradients 19

2. Minimum effective clear widthsof doors 25

3. Provision of wheelchair spacein audience seating 39

Note: Table 4 deleted refer to ApprovedDocument M: Volume 1

CONTENTS M

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THE APPROVED DOCUMENTS

This document is one of a series that hasbeen approved and issued by the Secretaryof State for the purpose of providing

practical guidance with respect to therequirements of Schedule 1 to andRegulation 7 of the Building Regulations2010 for England and Wales (SI 2010/2214).

At the back of this document is a listof all the documents that have beenapproved and issued by the Secretaryof State for this purpose.

Approved Documents are intended toprovide guidance for some of the more

common building situations. However,there may well be alternative ways ofachieving compliance with the requirements.Thus there is no obligation to adoptany particular solution contained in an

Approved Document if you prefer tomeet the relevant requirement in someother way.

Other requirements

The guidance contained in an ApprovedDocument relates only to the particularrequirements of the Regulations which thedocument addresses. The building work willalso have to comply with the requirementsof any other relevant paragraphs inSchedule 1 to the Regulations.

There are Approved Documents which giveguidance on each of the Parts of Schedule 1and on Regulation 7.

LIMITATION ON REQUIREMENTS

In accordance with regulation 8, therequirements in Parts A to D, F to K (exceptfor paragraphs H2 and J7) of Schedule 1 tothe Building Regulations do not requireanything to be done except for the purposeof securing reasonable standards of healthand safety for persons in or about buildings(and any others who may be affected bybuildings or matters connected with

buildings). This is one of the categories ofpurpose for which building regulations maybe made.

Paragraphs H2 and J7 are excluded fromRegulation 8 because they deal directly withprevention of the contamination of water.Parts E and M (which deal, respectively,

with resistance to the passage of sound,and access to and use of buildings) areexcluded from Regulation 8 because theyaddress the welfare and convenience ofbuilding users. Part L is excluded fromRegulation 8 because it addresses theconservation of fuel and power. All thesematters are amongst the purposes, otherthan health and safety, that may beaddressed by Building Regulations.

MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIPAny building work which is subject to therequirements imposed by Schedule 1 tothe Building Regulations shall be carriedout in accordance with regulation 7.Guidance on meeting these requirementson materials and workmanship is containedin Approved Document 7.

Building Regulations are made for specificpurposes, primarily the health and safety,

welfare and convenience of people and forenergy conservation. Standards and othertechnical specifications may providerelevant guidance to the extent that theyrelate to these considerations. However,they may also address other aspects ofperformance or matters which, althoughthey relate to health and safety etc., are notcovered by the Building Regulations.

When an Approved Document makes

reference to a named standard, therelevant version of the standard to which itrefers is the one listed at the end of thepublication. However, if this version hasbeen revised or updated by the issuingstandards body, the new version may beused as a source of guidance provided itcontinues to address the relevantrequirements of the Regulations.

Use of guidance M

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MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT

In mixed use developments part of abuilding may be used as a dwelling whileanother part has a non-domestic use.In such cases, if the requirements of theRegulations for dwellings and non-domestic

use differ, the requirements for non-domestic use should apply in any sharedparts of the building.

THE WORKPLACE (HEALTH,

SAFETY AND WELFARE)

REGULATIONS 1992

The Workplace (Health, Safety andWelfare) Regulations 1992 as amendedby The Health and Safety (Miscellaneous

Amendments) Regulations 2002(SI 2002/2174) contain some requirementswhich affect building design. The mainrequirements are now covered by theBuilding Regulations, but for furtherinformation see: Workplace health, safetyand welfare. Workplace (Health, Safety andWelfare) Regulations 1992, Approved Codeof Practice L24. Published by HSE Books1992 (ISBN 0 7176 0413 6).

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)Regulations 1992 apply to the commonparts of flats and similar buildings if peoplesuch as cleaners and caretakers areemployed to work in these common parts.Where the requirements of the BuildingRegulations that are covered by this Partdo not apply to dwellings, the provisionsmay still be required in the situationsdescribed above in order to satisfy theWorkplace Regulations.

THE EQUALITY ACT 2010 AND

THE EQUALITY ACT 2010

(DISABILITY) REGULATIONS 2010

The Equality Act 2010 (the EA) bringstogether existing equalities legislation,

including the Disability Discrimination Act1995, with the aims of strengthening andalso harmonising existing provisions into asingle streamlined framework of equalitieslegislation to deliver better outcomes forthe protected groups listed.

The EA (http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents) imposes a dutyto make reasonable adjustments to aphysical feature in order to comply with therequirements set out in section 20 of the

EA. The duty is set out in Schedule 2 (inrelation to public functions and serviceproviders); Schedule 8 (in relation toemployers) and Schedule 15 (in relation toassociations) of the EA.

Although the guidance in this ApprovedDocument, if followed, tends todemonstrate compliance with Part M of theBuilding Regulations, this does notnecessarily equate to compliance with the

obligations and duties set out in the EA.This is because service providers andemployers are required by the EA to makereasonable adjustment to any physicalfeature which might put a disabled personat a substantial disadvantage compared toa non-disabled person. In some instancesthis will include designing features ormaking reasonable adjustments to featureswhich are outside the scope of ApprovedDocument M. It remains for the personsundertaking building works to consider iffurther provision, beyond that described inApproved Document M, is appropriate.

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10 Year Exemption for service

providers, local authorities and

associations

An exemption setting out when anadjustment is not reasonable in relation to

design standards is provided in regulation9 (Reasonableness and design standards)of and the Schedule to the Equality Act2010 (Disability) Regulations 2010 (theRegulations).

Regulation 9 prescribes circumstances inwhich it is not reasonable for a provider ofservices, a public authority carrying out itsfunctions, or an association to remove oralter a physical feature which has beenprovided to assist access to the building or

its facilities and which accords with therelevant design standard. The Schedule tothe Regulations provides that a physicalfeature satisfies the relevant designstandard if it complied with the objectives,design considerations and provisions setout in the edition of Approved Document Mthat applied at the time the building workswere carried out.

This provision will not apply where more

than 10 years have elapsed since:

the day on which construction orinstallation of the feature wascompleted; or

in the case of a physical featureprovided as part of a larger buildingproject, the day on which the works inrelation to that project were completed.

Applicants should be aware that this is nota blanket exemption from duties under theEA, and relates only to the duty to makereasonable adjustments to physicalfeatures built in strict accordance with theguidance provided in the relevant approved

document. As with all other types ofbuilding work, service providers will stillneed to consider the needs of disabledpeople which are outside the scope ofApproved Document M. It is for applicants,not building control bodies, to considerhow these obligations are to be met.

RELATIONSHIP WITH GUIDANCE

IN APPROVED DOCUMENT K

(PROTECTION FROM FALLING

COLLISION AND IMPACT)

Where applicable, parts of this ApprovedDocument state that the requirements ofPart M will be satisfied by compliance withthe applicable parts of the guidance withinApproved Document K (Protection fromfalling, collision and impact). Compliancewith these applicable requirements set outin Approved Document K in thesecircumstances will be regarded ascompliance with a relevant design standardfor the purposes of regulation 9 and theSchedule to the Regulations.

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This Approved Document deals withrequirements M1, M2 and M3 of Part M ofSchedule 1 to the Building Regulations 2010.

Requirement Limits on application

PART M ACCESS TO AND USE OF

BUILDINGS

Access to and use of buildings other than

dwellings

M1. Reasonable provision must be made

for people to

(a) gain access to; and

(b) use, the building and its facilities.

Access to extensions to buildings other

than dwellings

M2. Suitable independent access must be

provided to the extension where reasonably

practicable.

Sanitary conveniences in extensions to

buildings other than dwellings

M3. If sanitary conveniences are provided

in any building that is to be extended,

reasonable provision shall be made within

the extension for sanitary conveniences.

Requirement M1 does not apply to

any part of a building that is used solely to

enable the building or any service or ftting

in the building to be inspected, repaired or

maintained.

Requirement M2 does not apply where

suitable access to the extension is provided

through the building that is extended.

Requirement M3 does not apply where

there is reasonable provision for sanitary

conveniences elsewhere in the building,

such that people occupied in, or otherwise

having occasion to enter the extension,

can gain access to and use those sanitary

conveniences.

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Notes

Means of escape in case of fire:thescope of Part M and AD M is limited tomatters of access to, into and use of abuilding. It does not extend to meansof escape in the event of fire, for which

reference should be made to ApprovedDocument B Fire Safety.

Stairs and ramps:Approved Document K(Protection from falling, collision and impact)contains guidance on internal and externalsteps, stairs and ramps when they are partof the building. Additional guidance isprovided in this Approved Document whenexternal stepped and ramped access alsoform part of the principal entrances and

alternative accessible entrances, and whenthey form part of the access route to thebuilding from the boundary of the site andcar parking.

Manifestation on glazed doors andglazed screens:Approved Document K(Protection from falling, collision andimpact) contains guidance onmanifestation.

BS 8300:2001 Design of buildings and

their approaches to meet the needsof disabled people. Code of Practice:this supersedes BS 5619:1978 and BS5810:1979. BS 8300 provides guidanceon good practice in the design of domesticand non-domestic buildings and theirapproaches so that they are convenientto use by disabled people. The designrecommendations are based on user trialsand validated desk studies which formedpart of a research project commissioned in1997 and 2001 by DETR. The guidance inthis Approved Document is based on andis complementary to the BS, although theBS contains much additional material thatis not apt for, or not considered appropriatefor, inclusion in guidance accompanyingregulation. Also, in a few cases, the guidancein AD M differs from the recommendationin BS 8300. Compliance with therecommendations in the BS, therefore,

while ensuring good practice, is notnecessarily equivalent to compliancewith the guidance in AD M.

Attention is drawn to the following extractsfrom The Building Regulations 2010.

Interpretation (Regulation 2)

Regulation 2 contains the followingdefinition:

independent access means in relation toa part of a building (including any extensionto that building) a route of access to thatpart which does not require the user topass through any other part of the building.

The meanings of the expressionsinstitution, public building and shopused in Regulation 5 are explained inRegulation 2.

Meaning of material change of use(regulation 5)

For the purposes of paragraph 8 (1)(e) ofSchedule 1 to the Act and for the purposesof these Regulations, there is a materialchange of use where there is a change inthe purposes for which or the circumstancesin which a building is used, so that afterthe change:

a. the building is used as a dwelling,

where previously it was not;b. the building contains a flat, where

previously it did not;

c. the building is used as an hotel or aboarding house, where previously itwas not;

d. the building is used as an institution,where previously it was not;

e. the building is used as a public building,

where previously it was not;f. the building is not a building described

in Classes 1 to 6 in Schedule 2, wherepreviously it was;

g. the building, which contains at least onedwelling, contains a greater or lessernumber of dwellings than it did previously;

h. the building contains a room for residentialpurposes, where previously it did not;

I. the building, which contains at least one

room for residential purposes, containsa greater or lesser number of suchrooms than it did previously; or

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j. the building is used as a shop, wherepreviously it was not.

Requirements relating to materialchange of use (Regulation 6)

1. Where there is a material change ofuse of the whole of a building, such work, ifany, shall be carried out as is necessary toensure that the building complies with theapplicable requirements of the followingparagraphs of Schedule 1:

a. in all cases,

B1 (means of warning and escape)

B2 (internal fire spread linings)

B3 (internal fire spread structure)

B4(2) (external fire spread roofs)

B5 (access and facilities for thefire service)

C2(c) (interstitial and surfacecondensation)

F1 (means of ventilation)

G3(1) to (3) (hot water supply andsystems)

G4 (sanitary conveniences andwashing facilities)

G5 (bathrooms)

G6 (kitchen and food preparation areas)

H1 (foul water drainage)

H6 (solid waste storage)

J1 to J4 (combustion appliances)

L1 (conservation of fuel and power dwellings)

P1 (electrical safety);

b. in the case of a material change of usedescribed in Regulations 5(c), (d), (e) or

(f), A1 to A3 (structure);

c. in the case of a building exceeding15m in height, B4(1) (external firespread walls);

d. in the case of material change of usedescribed in regulation 5(a), (b), (c), (d),(g), (h), (i) or, where the material changeprovides new residential accommodation,(f), C1(2) (resistance to contaminants);

e. in the case of material change of

use described in Regulation 5(a),C4 (resistance to weather and groundmoisture);

f. in the case of a material change of usedescribed in Regulation 5(a), (b), (c), (g),(h) or (i), E1 to E3 (resistance to thepassage of sound);

g. in the case of a material change ofuse described in Regulation 5(e),

where the public building consistsof or contains a school, E4 (acousticconditions in schools);

h. in the case of a material change of usedescribed in Regulation 5(c), (d), (e) or(j), M1 (access and use).

2. Where there is a material change ofuse of part only of a building, such work, ifany, shall be carried out as is necessary toensure that:

a. that part complies in all cases with anyapplicable requirements referred to inparagraph (1)(a);

b. in a case to which sub-paragraphs (b),(d), (e) or (f) of paragraph (1) apply, thatpart complies with the requirementsreferred to in the relevant sub-paragraph;

c. in a case to which sub-paragraph (c)of paragraph (1) applies, the wholebuilding complies with the requirement

referred to in that sub-paragraph; andd. in a case to which sub-paragraph (i) of

paragraph (1) applies:

i. that part and any sanitaryconveniences provided in or inconnection with that part complywith the requirements referred to inthat sub-paragraph; and

ii. the building complies withrequirement M1(a) of Schedule 1 to

the extent that reasonable provisionis made to provide either suitableindependent access to that part orsuitable access throughthe building to that part.

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PERFORMANCE

In the Secretary of States viewRequirements M1, M2 and M3 will be metby making reasonable provision to ensure

that buildings are accessible and usable.

People, regardless of disability, age orgender, should be able to:

gain access to buildings and to gainaccess within buildings and use theirfacilities, both as visitors and as peoplewho live or work in them.

Where the requirements apply

Application of Part M

0.1 Requirements M1, M2 and M3apply if:

a. a non-domestic building is newlyerected;

b. an existing non-domestic building isextended, or undergoes a materialalteration; or

c. an existing building or part of an existingbuilding undergoes a material changeof use to a hotel or boarding house,institution, public building or shop.

The terms institution, public building andshop are explained in regulation 2.

It should be noted that, regardless ofcompliance with Building Regulations,there will be obligations under the EqualityAct 2010 for service providers andemployers to consider barriers created by

physical features in buildings.0.2-0.4Text deleted.

Extensions of non-domestic buildings

0.5 An extension to a non-domesticbuilding should be treated in the samemanner as a new building, as regards itsown compliance with Part M. UnderRequirement M2 there must be suitableindependent access to the extensionwhere reasonably practicable. Under theLimits on Application, Requirement M2does not apply where the building that isextended complies with Requirement M1(a)

so as to provide suitable access throughthe building to the extension. The conceptof access encompasses access from theboundary of the site and from on-site car

parking where provided.0.6 If the owners of a building prefernot to provide independent access to aplanned extension, it is open to them eitherto demonstrate that the existing buildingand the approach to it already comply withRequirement M1(a), so that the Limit onApplication of Requirement M2 applies,or to modify the existing building and/orthe approach to it so that the Limit onApplication applies. Such modificationwork would be a material alteration.The extensions and the alterations of theexisting building could be planned andcarried out as a single project.

0.7 In judging whether access provisionrelying on the existing building is sufficientfor the Limit on Application of RequirementM2 to apply, and in judging whether itis reasonably practicable for suitableindependent access to be provided, practical

constraints and cost considerations will berelevant see also Access Strategiesparagraphs 0.20 and 0.25 below.

0.8 Under Requirement M3, if sanitaryconveniences are provided in any buildingthat is to be extended, reasonableprovision must be made within theextension for sanitary conveniences.However, under the Limit on Application ofRequirement M3, this requirement does not

apply if there is reasonable provision forpeople using the extension to gain accessto and to use sanitary conveniences in theexisting building. As in the case of accessto an extension, it is open to buildingowners preferring not to make provisionsfor sanitary conveniences in a plannedextension either to demonstrate thatreasonable provision already exists in, orto modify, the existing building so that theLimit on Application of Requirement M3applies. In this case, too, the extension andthe modifications to the existing building

M

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could be planned and carried out as asingle project.

Material alterations of non-domestic

buildings

0.9 Under regulation 4, where an

alteration of a non-domestic building isa material alteration, the work itself mustcomply, where relevant, with RequirementM1. This means that alterations to featuresrelevant to the compliance of a buildingwith Part M, such as entrances orarrangements for people to get fromone level to another within the building,must result in features that comply withRequirement M1. Where new featuresrelevant to the compliance of a building

with Part M are provided, these must alsocomply with Requirement M1. Reasonableprovision must be made for people to gainaccess to and to use new or alteredsanitary conveniences. The building as awhole, including access to it from the siteboundary and from on-site car parkingwhere provided, must be no less compliantwith Requirement M1 following a materialalteration of a building. In the context ofa material alteration of a building, it isnot necessary, as regards the BuildingRegulations, to upgrade access to thebuilding entrance from the site boundaryand from on-site car parking where provided.However, attention is drawn to the note inparagraph 1, above about the Equality Act.

Material changes of use

0.10 Under regulation 6, as amended,where there is a material change of use of

the whole of a building to a hotel or boardinghouse, an institution, a public building ora shop, the building must be upgraded,if necessary, so as to comply with M1(Access and use). The terms institution,public building and shop are explainedin regulation 2. In particular, it should benoted that shop includes use as arestaurant, bar or public house.

0.11 Under regulation 6, as amended, if

an existing building undergoes a changeof use such thatpartis used as a hotel orboarding house, an institution, a public

building or a shop, such work if any shall becarried out as is necessary to ensure that:

there is reasonable provision for peopleto gain access to that part from the siteboundary and from on-site car parkingwhere provided, either by means of an

independent access or by means of aroute to and through the building;

that part itself complies with M1 (accessand use); and

any sanitary conveniences provided in,or in connection with, that part complywith Requirement M1: if users of that parthave the use of sanitary convenienceselsewhere in the building, there mustbe reasonable provision for people to

gain access to and use that sanitaryaccommodation, upgraded if need be.

Developers will need to agree how theyhave assessed what is reasonableprovision with the relevant building controlbody as set out in paragraphs 0.20 to 0.25.

0.12 Where a material change of useresults in a building being used in part as ahotel or boarding house, institution, publicbuilding or shop, and in part as a dwelling,regard should be had to the guidance inSections 1 to 5 of this Approved Documentin relation to the relevant non-domesticaccommodation and to the common parts(see also MIXED USE DEVELOPMENTunder Use of Guidance).

Car parking and setting down

0.13 Part M applies to those features,outside the building, which are needed to

provide access to the building from theedge of the site and from car parking andsetting down points within the site.

What requirements apply

0.14 If Part M applies, reasonable provisionshould be made:

a. so that people, regardless of disability,age or gender, can reach the principalentrance to the building and otherentrances described in this ApprovedDocument from the site boundary,

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from car parking within the site, andfrom other buildings on the same site(such as a university campus, a schoolor a hospital);

b. so that elements of the building do notconstitute a hazard to users, especially

people with impaired sight, but ratherassist in wayfinding;

c. so that people, regardless of disability,age or gender, can have access into,and within, any storey of the buildingand to the buildings facilities, subjectto the usual gender-related conventionsregarding sanitary accommodation;

d. for suitable accommodation for peoplein wheelchairs, or people with other

disabilities, in audience or spectatorseating;

e. for aids to communication for peoplewith an impairment of hearing or sightin auditoria, meeting rooms, receptionareas, ticket offices and at informationpoints; and

f. for sanitary accommodation for theusers of the building.

Educational establishments0.15 From 1 April 2001, maintained schoolsceased to have exemption from the BuildingRegulations. Certain school-specificstandards relating to Parts K and Mcontained in the DfES 1997 ConstructionalStandards as described in CircularDfES/0142/2001 are subsumed in thisrevision to AD M (see 1.33 Note re: (l) and(m), 1.36, 1.37 (b).

0.16 Purpose-built student livingaccommodation, including that in the formof flats as defined in regulation 2(1), shouldbe treated as hotel/motel accommodationin respect of space requirements andinternal facilities (see 4.17 to 4.24).

Historic buildings

0.17 Historic buildings include:

a. listed buildings,

b. buildings situated in conservation areas,

c. buildings which are of architectural and

historical interest and which are referredto as a material consideration in a localauthoritys development plan,

d. buildings of architectural and historicinterest within national parks, areas ofoutstanding natural beauty and world

heritage sites,

e. vernacular buildings of traditional formand construction.

0.18 The need to conserve the specialcharacteristics of such historic buildingsmust be recognised. They are a finiteresource with cultural importance. Insuch work the aim should be to improveaccessibility where and to the extent that itis practically possible, always provided that

the work does not prejudice the characterof the historic building, or increase the riskof long-term deterioration to the buildingfabric or fittings. In arriving at an appropriatebalance between historic buildingconservation and accessibility, it would beappropriate to take into account the adviceof the local authoritys conservation andaccess officers, and English Heritage, aswell as the views of local access groups, in

order to make the building as accessibleas possible.

0.19 Particular issues relating to work inhistoric buildings that warrant sympathetictreatment and where advice from otherscould therefore be beneficial include:

a. restoring the historic character ofa building that had been subject toprevious inappropriate alteration,e.g. replacement windows, doors

and rooflights;b. rebuilding a former historic building

(e.g. following a fire or filling in a gapsite in a terrace);

c. the choice of appropriate constructionmaterials and techniques, e.g. makingprovisions enabling the fabric to breatheto control moisture and potential long-term decay problems: see InformationSheet No. 4 from The Society for the

Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB).

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Access strategy

0.20 It is important that applicants clearlycommunicate to the building control bodyhow their chosen approach to meeting theaccessibility needs of the likely end-usersof a building and its facilities demonstrates

compliance with the requirements of PartM of the Building Regulations. Theguidance in this Approved Document isdesigned to indicate only one way in whichthose requirements may be met. Whilstalternative, equally satisfactory ways ofmeeting the requirements can be adopteddepending on the size, scale, nature andintended use of the building they must stilldemonstrate compliance with the relevantfunctional requirement.

0.21 Where alternative solutions areproposed, the onus remains with theapplicant to demonstrate that thosesolutions are appropriate and meet therequirements, for example by showing thatit is equivalent to the provisions set out inthis Approved Document. This shouldinclude the use of appropriate researchevidence or reference to recognised BritishStandards as necessary to support the

chosen approach. It is advisable to ensurethat the appropriate level of provision isagreed with the building control bodyprior to commencing building work, asretrospective alterations can be costlyand disruptive.

0.22 Applicants should therefore seek toengage with building control bodies at theearliest possible stage to identify keyissues and risks, and to discuss the best

way to demonstrate the access strategy forthe building work taking place. To ensuresatisfactory outcomes, communicationbetween applicants and building controlbodies should focus on areas whereproposals diverge from the guidance in thisApproved Document rather than providingan exhaustive explanation where featuresare in accordance with the guidance.

0.23 Provision of a written Access

strategy is not required to accompany abuilding control application though it maybe useful in some circumstances. The key

focus should be on ensuring thatapplicants and building control bodies areagreed as to the appropriate level ofprovision in the completed building work.

0.24 In smaller or simpler works this couldbe achieved by having a conversation to

review the proposals and recording theoutcome of discussions bycorrespondence. In large, complex worksor where there are significant constraintsimposed by an existing site, this mightinvolve a written document setting out keyaspects of the access approach,supported by annotated drawings as wellas face to face meetings to resolve keyissues. It is for the building control bodyand applicant to agree which, if any ofthese proposed approaches should beused on a case by case basis to ensurethat the functional requirements of Part Mof the Building Regulations are satisfied.Whichever approach is adopted, theagreed level of provision should be clearlyrecorded.

0.25 It should be noted that approval ofproposed works by a building control bodydoes not by necessity indicate compliance

with duties under the Equalities Act 2010.Applicants need to consider these widerequality obligations when undertakingbuilding work and whether provision insome circumstances should exceed thatset out within this Approved Document.The relationship between Part M of theBuilding Regulations and the Equality Act2010 is set out on page 7 of this ApprovedDocument.

Definitions0.26 The following meanings apply toterms throughout this Approved Document.

Access, approach, entry or exit.

Accessible, with respect to buildingsor parts of buildings, means that people,regardless of disability, age or gender,are able to gain access.

Contrast visually, when used to indicate

the visual perception of one element ofthe building, or fitting within the building,against another means that the difference

M GENERAL GUIDANCE

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in light reflectance value between the twosurfaces is greater than 30 points. Whereilluminance on surfaces is greater than 200lux, a difference in light reflectance valueshould be a minimum of 20 points. Wheredoor opening furniture projects beyond the

face of the door or otherwise createsenhanced differentiation and shade, aminimum difference in light reflectancevalue of 15 points is considered adequate.For further information, reference shouldbe made to Colour, contrast andperception Design guidance for internalbuilt environments Reading University.

Dwelling,means a house or a flat (flatis defined in regulation 2(1)). However,new blocks of flats built as studentaccommodation are to be treated as thoughthey are hotel/motel accommodation inrespect of space requirements and internalfacilities (see 4.17 to 4.24).

General access stair,a stair intended forall users of a building on a day-to day-basis, as a normal route between levels.

Illuminance,the amount of light falling ona surface, measured in lumens per square

metre (lm/m

2

) or lux (lx).Level, with respect to the surfaces of alevel approach, access routes and landingsassociated with steps, stairs and ramps meanspredominantly level, but with a maximumgradient along the direction of travel of 1:60.

Light reflectance value (LRV),the totalquantity of visible light reflected by asurface at all wavelengths and directionswhen illuminated by a light source.

Principal entrance, the entrance which avisitor not familiar with the building wouldnormally expect to approach.

Suitable, with respect to means of accessand facilities, means that they are designedfor use by people regardless of disability,age or gender, but subject to the usualgender-related conventions regardingsanitary accommodation.

Usable, with respect to buildings or

parts of buildings, means that they areconvenient for independent use.

Utility stair, a stair used for escape,access for maintenance, or purposes otherthan as a usual route for moving betweenlevels on a day-to-day basis.

GENERAL GUIDANCE M

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ACCESS TO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS M1/M2

Provisions

1.13 A level approach (from the boundaryof the site and from car parking spacesdesignated for disabled people to theprincipal entrance, to a staff entrance orto an alternative accessible entrance) will

satisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. it has a surface width of at least 1.5m,with passing places, free of obstructionsto a height of 2.1m;

b. passing places at least 1.8m wide andat least 2m long are provided withinsight of each other (the width of thepassing place may be included in thewidth of the level approach), but in anycase spaced at a distance no greater

than 50m;

c. the gradient along its length is eitherno steeper than 1:60 along its wholelength, or less steep than 1:20 with levellandings (see 1.26(k)) introduced foreach 500mm rise of the access (wherenecessary, between landings), in allcases with a cross-fall gradient nosteeper than 1:40;

d. its surface is firm, durable and slipresistant, with undulations not exceeding3mm under a 1m straight edge forformless materials. Inappropriatematerials might be loose sand or gravel;

e. where there are different materials alongthe access route, they have similarfrictional characteristics;

f. the difference in level at joints betweenpaving units is no greater than 5mm,with joints filled flush or, if recessed,no deeper than 5mm and no wider than10mm or, if unfilled, no wider than 5mm;

g. the route to the principal entrance(or alternative accessible entrance) isclearly identified and well lit;

h. the danger of inadvertently walking intoa vehicular access route is minimisedby providing a separate pedestrianroute and, where there is an uncontrolled

crossing point across the vehicular route,this is identified by a buff coloured blistersurface (see Diagram 1, and Guidanceon the use of Tactile Paving Surfaces).

On-site car parking andsetting down

Design considerations

1.14 People who need to travel tobuildings by car need to be able to park,have sufficient space to enter and leavetheir vehicle, on occasions move to therear of their vehicle, then walk, travel in awheelchair or with pushchairs or luggage,etc. to the principal entrance, the staff

entrance or any alternative accessibleentrance of the building.

Diagram 1 Tactile paving and anexample of its use at an

uncontrolled crossing

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M1/M2 ACCESS TO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS

1.15 The surface of a parking baydesignated for disabled people, in particularthe area surrounding the bay, should allowthe safe transfer of a passenger or driver toa wheelchair and transfer from the parkingbay to the access route to the building

without undue effort, barriers to wheelchairsor hazards from tripping.

1.16 If people need to obtain ticketsfor pay and display parking, the ticketdispensing machines should be located ina way that allows a person in a wheelchair,or a person of short stature, to gain accessclose to the machine and reach the paymentand ticket dispensing functions.

1.17 People with mobility impairments

who arrive as passengers should be ableto alight from a vehicle close to theprincipal entrance, or alternative accessibleentrance, of the building in a way that isconvenient for entry into the building.

Note:Guidance is available in BS 8300 on:

the provision of parking baysdesignated for disabled people indifferent building types;

ticket dispensing machines;

vehicular control barriers; and

multi-storey car parks.

Provisions

1.18 Car parking and setting down willsatisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. at least one parking bay designated fordisabled people is provided on firm andlevel ground as close as feasible to the

principal entrance of the building;b. the dimensions of the designated

parking bays are as shown in Diagram 2(with a 1200mm accessibility zonebetween, and a 1200mm safety zone onthe vehicular side of, the parking bays,and with a dropped kerb when there isa pedestrian route at the other side ofthe parking bay);

c. the surface of the accessibility zone

is firm, durable and slip resistant, withundulations not exceeding 3mm under a1m straight edge for formless materials.Inappropriate materials might be loosesand or gravel;

d. ticket machines, where necessary forwheelchair users and people of shortstature, are adjacent to the designatedparking bays for disabled people andhave controls between 750mm and

1200mm above the ground and a plinthwhich does not project in front of theface of the machine in a way thatprevents its convenient use;

e. a clearly sign-posted setting down pointis located on firm and level ground asclose as practicable to the principal oralternative accessible entrance with itssurface level with the carriageway atthat point to allow convenient access toand from the entrance for people withwalking difficulties or people using awheelchair.

Diagram 2 Parking bay designated fordisabled people

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Ramped access

Note:Where there appears to be a conflictbetween the guidance in Part M and Part K,Part M takes precedence; see the Notes tothe Requirements.

Design considerations1.19 If site constraints necessitate anapproach of 1:20 or steeper, an approachincorporating ramped access should beprovided. Ramps are beneficial forwheelchair users and people pushingprams, pushchairs and bicycles.

1.20 Gradients should be as shallow aspracticable, as steep gradients createdifficulties for some wheelchair users who

lack the strength to propel themselves upa slope or have difficulty in slowing downor stopping when descending.

1.21 Ramps are also not necessarily safeand convenient for ambulant disabled people.For example, some people who can walk buthave restricted mobility find it more difficultto negotiate a ramp than a stair. In addition,adverse weather conditions increase therisk of slipping on a ramp. It is therefore

beneficial to have steps as well as a ramp.1.22 Some people need to be able to stopfrequently; for instance to regain strengthor breath, or to ease pain.

1.23 Wheelchair users need adequatespace to stop on landings, to open andpass through doors without having toreverse into circulation routes or to facethe risk of rolling back down slopes.

1.24 Some people have a weakness on

one side. This leads to a requirement forsupport at both sides of ramps.

1.25 If the total rise of a ramped approachis too high, it can be unacceptably tiringforwheelchair users and some people withwalking difficulties, even if a number of restlandings are provided.

Note:Guidance is given in BS 8300 on:

lighting ramped access.

Provisions

1.26 A ramped access will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. either it is readily apparent or theapproach to it is clearly sign-posted;

b. the gradient of a ramp flight and its goingbetween landings are in accordancewith Table 1 and Diagram 3;

c. no flight has a going greater than 10m,or a rise of more than 500mm;

Table 1 Limits for ramp gradients

Going of a flight Maximum gradient Maximum rise

10m 1:20 500mm

5m 1:15 333mm2m 1:12 166mm

Note:

For goings between 2m and 10m, it is acceptable to interpolatebetween the maximum gradients, i.e. 1:14 for a 4m going or 1:19 fora 9m going (see Diagram 3).

d. there is an alternative means of accessfor wheelchair users, e.g. a lift, whenthe total rise is greater than 2m;

e. it has a surface width between walls,upstands or kerbs of at least 1.5m;

Diagram 3 Relationship of rampgradient to the going ofa flight

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f. the ramp surface is slip resistant,especially when wet, and of a colourthat contrasts visually with that of thelandings;

g. the frictional characteristics of the rampand landing surfaces are similar;

h. there is a landing at the foot and headof the ramp at least 1.2m long and clearof any door swings or other obstructions;

i. any intermediate landings are at least1.5m long and clear of any door swingsor other obstructions;

j. intermediate landings at least 1800mmwide and 1800mm long are provided aspassing places when it is not possible

for a wheelchair user to see from oneend of the ramp to the other or theramp has three flights or more;

k. all landings are level, subject to amaximum gradient of 1:60 along theirlength and a maximum cross-fallgradient of 1:40;

l. there is a handrail on both sides;

m. there is a kerb on the open side of anyramp or landing at least 100mm high,

which contrasts visually with the rampor landing in addition to any guardingrequired under Part K;

n. clearly sign-posted steps are provided,in addition, when the rise of the rampis greater than 300mm (equivalent to2 x 150mm steps).

Stepped access

Note:Where there appears to be a conflict

between the guidance in Part M and Part K,Part M takes precedence; see the Notes tothe Requirements.


1.27 People with impaired sight risktripping or losing their balance if there isno warning that steps provide a changein level. The risk is most hazardous at thehead of a flight of steps when a personis descending.

1.28 The warning should be placedsufficiently in advance of the hazard toallow time to stop and not be so narrowthat it might be missed in a single stride.

1.29 Materials for treads should notpresent a slip hazard, especially when

the surface is wet.

1.30 People should be able to appreciateeasily where to place their feet byhighlighting nosings and avoidingopen rises.

1.31 People who wear callipers or whohave stiffness in hip or knee joints areparticularly at risk of tripping or catchingtheir feet beneath nosings. People witha weakness on one side or with a sight

impairment need the dimensions of thetread to be sufficient for them to be ableto place their feet square onto it. If thegoing is towards the upper end of thedimensional range, the flight may rise toa greater height without the need for anintermediate landing, as the tread issufficiently deep to allow a person to standand rest at any point within the flight. Itshould be noted that excessive rounding

of nosings reduces the effective going.1.32 Many ambulant disabled people findit easier to negotiate a flight of steps than aramp and, for these people, the presenceof handrails for support is essential.

Note:Guidance is given in BS 8300 on:

lighting stepped access; and

slip resistance (Annex C).

Provisions

1.33 A stepped access will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. a level landing is provided at the topand bottom of each flight;

b. the unobstructed length of each landingis not less than 1200mm;

c. a corduroy hazard warning surfaceis provided at top and bottom landingsof a series of flights to give advance

warning of a change in level inaccordance with Diagram 4;

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d. where there is side access onto anintermediate landing, a corduroy

hazard warning surface 400mm deepis provided either on the intermediatelanding 400mm from both upper andlower flights, if there is sufficient spaceto accommodate the surface outsidethe line of the side access, or within theside access 400mm from the intermediatelanding if there is a continuous handrailopposite the side access;

e. no doors swing across landings;

f. it has flights whose surface widthbetween enclosing walls, strings orupstands is not less than 1.2m;

g. there are no single steps;

h. the rise of a flight between landings

contains no more than 12 risers for agoing of less than 350mm and no morethan 18 risers for a going of 350mm orgreater (see Diagram 5);

i. all nosings are made apparent bymeans of a permanently contrastingmaterial 55mm wide on both the treadand the riser;

j. the projection of a step nosing over thetread below is avoided but, if necessary,

not more than 25mm (see Diagram 6);

Diagram 4 Stepped access key dimensions and use of hazard warning surface

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k. the rise and going of each step isconsistent throughout a flight;

l. the rise of each step is between 150mm

and 170mm, except adjacent to existingbuildings where, due to dimensionalconstraints, the case for a different riseis agreed with the building control body;

m. the going of each step is between280mm and 425mm;

n. rises are not open;

o. there is a continuous handrail on eachside of a flight and landings;

p. additional handrails divide the flight intochannels not less than 1m wide and notmore than 1.8m wide where the overallunobstructed width is more than 1.8m.

Note:In respect of 1.33(l) and (m), forschool buildings, the preferred dimensionsare a rise of 150mm, and a going of 280mm.

Handrails to external stepped and

ramped access

Design considerations1.34 People who have physical difficulty innegotiating changes of level need the helpof a handrail that can be gripped easily,is comfortable to touch and, preferably,provides good forearm support.

1.35 Handrails should be spaced awayfrom the wall and rigidly supported in away that avoids impeding finger grip.

1.36 Handrails should be set at heightsthat are convenient for all users of thebuilding and should extend safely beyondthe top and bottom of a flight of steps, ora ramp, to give both stability and warningof the presence of a change in level.Consideration should be given to the

provision of a second handrail on stairsin a wide range of building types, andparticularly in schools, for use by childrenand people of short stature.

Provisions

1.37 Handrailing to external ramped andstepped access will satisfy RequirementM1 or M2 if:

Diagram 5 External steps and stairs key dimensions

Diagram 6 Examples of acceptable stepprofiles and key dimensions

for external stairs

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a. the vertical height to the top of theupper handrail from the pitch line of thesurface of a ramp, or a flight of steps,is between 900mm and 1000mm, andfrom the surface of a landing is between900 and 1100mm (see Diagram 5);

b. where there is full height structuralguarding, the vertical height to the top ofa second lower handrail from the pitchline of the surface of a ramp, or a flightof steps, is 600mm, where provided;

c. it is continuous across the flights andlandings of ramped or stepped access;

d. it extends at least 300mm horizontallybeyond the top and bottom of a rampedaccess, or the top and bottom nosing

of a flight or flights of steps, while notprojecting into an access route;

e. it contrasts visually with the backgroundagainst which it is seen, without beinghighly reflective;

f. its surface is slip resistant and not coldto the touch, in areas where resistanceto vandalism or low maintenance arekey factors, use of metals with relativelylow thermal conductivity may beappropriate;

g. it terminates in a way that reduces therisk of clothing being caught;

h. its profile is either circular with a diameterbetween 32 and 50mm, or non-circular,50mm wide and 39 mm deep havingrounded edges with a radius a minimumof 15mm (see Diagram 7);

i. it protrudes no more than 100mm into

the surface width of the ramped orstepped access where this wouldimpinge on the stair width requirementof Part B1;

j. there is a clearance of between 50 and75mm between the handrail and anyadjacent wall surface;

k. there is a clearance of at least 50mmbetween a cranked support and theunderside of the handrail;

l. its inner face is located no more than50mm beyond the surface width of theramped or stepped access.

Hazards on access routes


1.38 Features of a building that occasionallyobstruct an access route, particularly ifthey are partially transparent and thereforeindistinct, or cause a danger overhead,should not present a hazard to building users.

Provisions

1.39 Requirement M1 or M2 will besatisfied in relation to hazards on accessroutes where Approved Document K,sections 6 and 10 are complied with.

Note: Diagram 8 has been moved toApproved Document K, Section 10, allother numbering remains the same.

Circular handrail

32mm to 50mm diameter

Non-circular handrail

50mm wide and 39mm

deep having rounded edges

Diagram 7 Handrail design

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M1/M2

OBJECTIVES

2.1 The aim for all new buildings is for

the principal entrance or entrances andany main staff entrance, and any lobbies,to be accessible.

2.2 Where it is not possible, e.g. in anexisting building, for the principal or mainstaff entrance or entrances to be accessible,an alternative accessible entrance shouldbe provided.

2.3 It is important to reduce the risks topeople when entering the building.

Accessible entrances


2.4 Steeply sloping or restricted sitessometimes make it impossible for theprincipal or main staff entrance to beaccessible, in which case an alternativeaccessible entrance may be necessary.

2.5 Accessible entrances should beclearly sign-posted and easily recognisable.Any structural elements, for examplesupports for a canopy, are useful inidentifying the entrance, but should notpresent a hazard.

2.6 The route from the exterior acrossthe threshold should provide weatherprotection, and not present a barrier forwheelchair users or a trip hazard for otherpeople. A level threshold is preferred,especially for doors in frequent use.

Note:Guidance on sign-posting is given inBS 8300, Inclusive mobility and the Signdesign guide.

Provisions

2.7 Accessible entrances will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. they are clearly sign-posted, incorporatingthe International Symbol of Access,from the edge of the site and from theprincipal entrance (if this is not accessible);

b. they are easily identified among theother elements of the building and the

immediate environment, e.g. by lightingand/or visual contrast;

c. any structural supports at the entrancedo not present a hazard for visuallyimpaired people;

d. there is a level landing at least 1500 x1500mm, clear of any door swings,immediately in front of the entrance andof a material that does not impede themovement of wheelchairs;

e. the threshold is level or, if a raisedthreshold is unavoidable, it has a total

height of not more than 15mm, aminimum number of upstands andslopes, with any upstands higher than5mm chamfered or rounded;

f. any door entry systems are accessibleto deaf and hard of hearing people, andpeople who cannot speak;

g. weather protection is provided atmanual non-powered entrance doors;

h. internal floor surfaces adjacent to thethreshold are of materials that do notimpede the movement of wheelchairs,e.g. not coir matting, and changes infloor materials do not create a potentialtrip hazard;

i. where mat wells are provided, thesurface of the mat is level with thesurface of the adjacent floor finish;

j. where provided as an alternative

accessible entrance, an accessibleinternal route is provided to the spacesserved by the principal or main staffentrances.

Doors to accessible entrances


2.8 Doors to the principal, or alternativeaccessible, entrance should be accessibleto all, particularly wheelchair users and

people with limited physical dexterity.Entrance doors may be manually operatedwithout powered assistance, or poweroperated under manual or automatic

Section 2: Access into buildings otherthan dwellings

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ACCESS INTO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS M1/M2

control. Entrance doors should be capableof being held closed when not in use.

2.9 A non-powered manually operatedentrance door, fitted with a self-closingdevice capable of closing the door againstwind forces and the resistance of draught

seals is unlikely to be openable by manypeople, particularly those who are wheelchairusers or who have limited strength.

2.10 A powered door opening and closingsystem, either manually controlled orautomatically operated by sensors, is themost satisfactory solution for most people.An automatic sliding door arrangement isparticularly beneficial as it avoids the risksassociated with automatic swing doors

and its use can make it possible to reducethe length of any entrance lobby.

2.11 Once open, all doors to accessibleentrances should be wide enough to allowunrestricted passage for a variety of users,including wheelchair users, people carryingluggage, people with assistance dogs, andparents with pushchairs and small children.It should be noted that double buggies arewider than wheelchairs and that, where

relevant to the building type, this shouldbe borne in mind when determining anappropriate effective clear width for anentrance door. There may be circumstances inexisting buildings where it is not practicableor cost-effective to adopt the preferredeffective clear widths for new buildings.

2.12 People should be able to see otherpeople approaching from the oppositedirection, thereby allowing sufficient reactiontime for both parties to avoid a collision.Exceptions may be acceptable for reasons ofprivacy or security.

Provisions

2.13 Doors to accessible entrances willsatisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. where required to be self-closing, apower-operated door opening andclosing system is used when throughcalculation and experience it appears

that it will not be possible otherwise fora person to open the door using a forcenot more than 30N at the leading edgefrom 0 (the door in the closed position)

to 30 open, and not more than 22.5Nat the leading edge from 30 to 60 ofthe opening cycle;

b. the effective clear width through asingle leaf door, or one leaf of a doubleleaf door, is in accordance with Table 2,

and the rules for measurement are inaccordance with Diagram 9;

c. they are installed in accordance withApproved Document K, section 10.

Table 2 Minimum effective clearwidths of doors

Direction and New Existingwidth of approach buildings buildings

(mm) (mm)

Straight-on (without a turn or 800 750oblique approach)

At right angles to an access route 800 750at least 1500mm wide

At right angles to an access route 825 775at least 1200mm wide

External doors to buildings used 1000 775by the general public

Note:

The effective clear width is the width of the opening measured atright angles to the wall in which the door is situated from the outsideof the door stop on the door closing side to any obstruction on

the hinge side, whether this be projecting door opening furniture,a weather board, the door or the door stop (see Diagram 9). Forspecific guidance on the effective clear widths of doors in sportsaccommodation, refer to accessible sports facilities.

Diagram 9 Effective clear width of doors

Manually operated non-powered

entrance doors


2.14 Self-closing devices on manuallyoperated non-powered swing doorsdisadvantage many people who havelimited upper body strength, are pushing

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M1/M2 ACCESS INTO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS

prams or are carrying heavy objects.

2.15 A space alongside the leading edgeof a door should be provided to enablea wheelchair user to reach and grip thedoor handle, then open the door withoutreleasing hold on the handle and without

the footrest colliding with the return wall.

2.16 Door furniture on manually operatednon-powered doors should be easy tooperate by people with limited manualdexterity, and be readily apparent againstthe background of the door.

Provisions

2.17 Manually operated non-poweredentrance doors will satisfy Requirement M1

or M2 if:a. the opening force at the leading edge

of the door is not more than 30N at theleading edge from 0 (the door in theclosed position) to 30 open, and notmore than 22.5N at the leading edgefrom 30 to 60 of the opening cycle;

b. there is an unobstructed space of atleast 300mm on the pull side of the doorbetween the leading edge of the door

and any return wall, unless the door is apowered entrance door (see Diagram 9);

c. where fitted with a latch, the door openingfurniture can be operated with one handusing a closed fist, e.g. a lever handle;

d. all door opening furniture contrastsvisually with the surface of the door andis not cold to the touch.

Powered entrance doors


2.18 Activation (e.g. motion sensors andpush buttons), safety features and thetime-lapse allowed for entry and exitthrough powered door systems shouldbe carefully considered to suit the needsof people who cannot react quickly.

2.19 Manual controls for powered entrancedoors should be clearly distinguishableagainst the background and not locatedso that a person, having used the control,

needs to move to avoid contact with thedoor as it opens.

2.20 Revolving doors are not consideredaccessible. They create particular difficulties,and risk of injury, for people with assistancedogs, people with visual impairment or

mobility problems and for parents withchildren and/or pushchairs. If a revolvingdoor is used, an entrance door complyingwith 2.17 or 2.21 should be providedimmediately adjacent to it and signedto show that it is accessible.

Provisions

2.21 Powered entrance doors will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. they have a sliding, swinging or foldingaction controlled:

manually by a push pad, card swipe,coded entry or remote control, or

automatically by a motion sensoror other proximity sensor, e.g. acontact mat;

b. when installed, automatic sensors are setso that automatically operated doorsopen early enough, and stay open longenough, to permit safe entry and exit;

c. when they are swing doors that opentowards people approaching the doors,visual and audible warnings are providedto warn people of their automatic operationwhen both opening and shutting;

d. they incorporate a safety stop that isactivated if the doors begin to closewhen a person is passing through;

e. they revert to manual control or fail safein the open position in the event of apower failure;

f. when open, they do not project into anyadjacent access route;

g. any manual controls for powered doorsystems are located between 750mmand 1000mm above floor level, operablewith a closed fist and, when on theopening side of the door, are set back

1400mm from the leading edge of thedoor when fully open and contrastvisually with the background againstwhich they are seen.

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ACCESS INTO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS M1/M2

Glass doors and glazed screens


2.22 People with visual impairment shouldbe in no doubt as to the location of glassdoors, especially when they are within aglazed screen. The choice of a differentstyle of manifestation for the door and theglazed screen can help to differentiatebetween them.

2.23 The presence of the door should beapparent not only when it is shut but alsowhen it is open. Where it can be held open,steps should be taken to avoid peoplebeing harmed by walking into the door.

Provisions

2.24 Glass doors and glazed screens willsatisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if they complywith Approved Document K, Section 7.

Entrance lobbies


2.25 There are a number of reasons forproviding a lobby:

to limit air infiltration

to maintain comfort by controlling draughts

to increase security

to provide transitional lighting.

2.26 The provision of a lobby may makeit possible for an external door to have aself-closing device with a lower power sizerating than might otherwise be the case.However, even in these circumstances, itmay not be possible for the entrance door

to meet the opening force criterion of 30Nat the leading edge from 0 (the door in theclosed position) to 30 open, and not morethan 22.5N at the leading edge from 30 to60 of the opening cycle (see 2.9).

2.27 The lobby should be large enough andof a shape to allow a wheelchair user or aperson pushing a pram to move clear of onedoor before opening the second door.The lobby should also be capable ofaccommodating a companion helping awheelchair user to open doors and guidethe wheelchair through. The minimumlength of the lobby is related to the chosen

door size, the swing of each door, theprojection of the door into the lobby andthe size of an occupied wheelchair with acompanion pushing. Where both doors ofa lobby are automatic sliding doors, thelength can be reduced as no door swings

are involved, nor is space required formanual operation. Similarly, if reducedswing door sets are used, the length canbe reduced because the projection of thedoor into the lobby is reduced.

2.28 The aim should be to reducepotential hazards from local obstructionswithin the lobby and minimise distractingreflections from glazing. It is also desirableif rainwater from shoes or the wheels ofwheelchairs is not taken into the buildingwhere it becomes a potential slip hazard,e.g. by the use of cleaning mats.

Provisions

2.29 Entrance lobbies will satisfyRequirement M1 or M2 if:

a. their length with single swing doors isin accordance with Diagram 10;

b. their length with double swing doors is

at least (DP1 + DP2 + 1570mm);c. their width (excluding any projections

into the space) is at least 1200mm (or(DL1 or DL2) + 300mm) whichever is thegreater when single leaf doors are used,and at least 1800mm when double leafdoors are used;

d. glazing within the lobby does not createdistracting reflections;

e. floor surface materials within the

lobby do not impede the movement ofwheelchairs, e.g. not coir matting, andchanges in floor materials do not createa potential trip hazard;

f. the floor surface helps to removerainwater from shoes and wheelchairs;

g. where mat wells are provided, thesurface of the mat is level with thesurface of the adjacent floor finish;

h. any columns, ducts and similar full heightelements that project into the lobby bymore than 100mm are protected by avisually contrasting guard rail.

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M1/M2 ACCESS INTO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN DWELLINGS

Diagram 10 Key dimensions for lobbies with single leaf doors

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M1/M2

OBJECTIVE

3.1 The objective is for all people to

travel vertically and horizontally withinbuildings conveniently and withoutdiscomfort in order to make use of allrelevant facilities. This objective relatesin the main, but not exclusively, to theprovision of sufficient space for wheelchairmanoeuvre and design features that make itpossible for people to travel independentlywithin buildings.

Entrance hall and reception area


3.2 As the entrance hall is the first pointof contact with a buildings activities andresources, the reception area in particularshould not only be easily accessible butalso convenient to use.

3.3 Where a service building has areception or sales counter, there shouldbe convenient access to it and part of it

should be at a level suitable for a wheelchairuser or a seated person. Any lower sectionshould also be wheelchair-accessible onthe reception side.

3.4 Designers should also be aware thatglazed screens in front of the receptionpoint, or light sources or reflective wallsurfaces, such as glazed screens, locatedbehind the reception point, couldcompromise the ability of a person witha hearing impairment to lip read or followsign language.

3.5 It should be possible for informationabout the building to be easily obtainedfrom a reception point or gathered fromnotice boards and signs.

Note:Guidance on aids to communicationis available in BS 8300, and on the use ofsigns in the Sign design guide.

Provisions

3.6 An entrance hall and reception areawill satisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. any reception point is located awayfrom the principal entrance (while stillproviding a view of it) where there is arisk that external noise will be a problem;

b. any reception point is easily identifiablefrom the entrance doors or lobby, andthe approach to it is direct and free fromobstructions;

c. the design of the approach to anyreception point allows space forwheelchair users to gain access tothe reception point;

d. the clear manoeuvring space in frontof any reception desk or counter is1200mm deep and 1800mm wide ifthere is a knee recess at least 500mmdeep, or 1400mm deep and 2200mmwide if there is no knee recess;

e. any reception desk or counter is designedto accommodate both standing andseated visitors such that at least onesection of the counter is at least 1500mm

wide, with its surface no higher than760mm, and a knee recess, not lessthan 700mm, above floor level;

f. any reception point is provided with ahearing enhancement system, e.g. aninduction loop;

g. the floor surface is slip resistant.

Internal doors


3.7 Since doors are potential barriers,their use should be avoided wheneverappropriate. If doors are required, the useof self-closing devices should be minimised(particularly in parts of buildings used bythe general public) since, as described in2.14, they disadvantage many people whohave limited upper body strength, arepushing prams or are carrying heavy objects.Where closing devices are needed for fire

control, electrically powered hold-opendevices or swing-free closing devicesshould be used as appropriate. These are

Section 3: Horizontal and vertical circulationin buildings other than dwellings

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devices whose closing mechanism is onlyactivated in case of emergency. Low energypowered door systems may be used inlocations not subject to frequent use orheavy traffic as the opening and closingaction is relatively slow.

3.8 The presence of doors, whether openor closed, should be apparent to visuallyimpaired people through the careful choiceof colour and material for the door and itssurroundings. For example, when a door isopen, people with impaired sight should beable to identify the door opening within thewall, as well as the leading edge of the door.

3.9 Other design considerations forinternal doors are as set out in 2.14 to 2.16

under Manually operated non-poweredentrance doors and should be referred tofor guidance.

Note:Guidance is available in BS 8300 on:

electrically powered hold-open devices

swing-free systems

low energy powered door systems.

Provisions

3.10 Internal doors will satisfy RequirementM1 or M2 if:

a. where needing to be opened manually,the opening force at the leading edgeof the door is not more than 30N from0 (the door in the closed position) to30 open, and not more than 22.5Nfrom 30 to 60 of the opening cycle;

b. the effective clear width through asingle leaf door, or one leaf of a double

leaf door, is in accordance with Table 2and Diagram 9;

c. there is an unobstructed space of atleast 300mm on the pull side of thedoor between the leading edge of thedoor and any return wall, unless thedoor has power-controlled opening orit provides access to a standard hotelbedroom;

d. where fitted with a latch, the door

opening furniture can be operated withone hand using a closed fist, e.g. alever handle;

e. all door opening furniture contrastsvisually with the surface of the door;

f. the door frames contrast visually withthe surrounding wall;

g. the surface of the leading edge of anydoor that is not self-closing, or is likelyto be held open, contrasts visuallywith the other door surfaces and itssurroundings;

h. where appropriate in door leaves or sidepanels wider than 450mm, vision panelstowards the leading edge of the doorhave vertical dimensions which includeat least the minimum zone, or zones, ofvisibility between 500mm and 1500mmfrom the floor, if necessary interrupted

between 800mm and 1150mm abovethe floor, e.g. to accommodate anintermediate horizontal rail (seeApproved Document K, Section 10);

i. when of glass, they are clearly definedwith manifestation on the glass thatcomplies with Approved Document K,section 7;

j. when of glass or fully glazed, they areclearly differentiated from any adjacentglazed wall or partition by the provisionof a high-contrast strip at the top andon both sides;

k. fire doors, particularly those in corridors,are held open with an electro-magneticdevice, but self-close when:

activated by smoke detectors linked tothe door individually, or to a main fire/smoke alarm system;

the power supply fails; activated by a hand-operated switch;

l. fire doors, particularly to individual rooms,are fitted with swing-free devices thatclose when activated by smoke detectorsor the buildings fire alarm system, orwhen the power supply fails;

m. any low energy powered swing doorsystem is capable of being operated inmanual mode, in powered mode or inpower-assisted mode.

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HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL CIRCULATION IN BUILDINGSOTHER THAN DWELLINGS M1/M2

Corridors and passageways


3.11 Corridors and passageways shouldbe wide enough to allow people withbuggies, people carrying cases or people

on crutches to pass others on the accessroute. Wheelchair users should also haveaccess to adjacent rooms and spaces,be able to pass other people and, wherenecessary, turn through 180. Corridorsnarrower than indicated in this guidance,or localised narrowing (e.g. at archways),might be reasonable in some locations,such as in existing buildings or in someextensions.

3.12 In order to help people with visualimpairment to appreciate the size of aspace they have entered, or to find theirway around, there should be a visualcontrast between the wall and the ceiling,and between the wall and the floor. Suchattention to surface finishes should becoupled with good natural and artificiallighting design.

3.13 Good acoustic design should beemployed to achieve an acoustic environment

that is neither too reverberant nor tooabsorbent so that announcements andconversations can be heard clearly.

Provisions

3.14 Corridors and passageways willsatisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. elements such as columns, radiatorsand fire hoses do not project into thecorridor, or where this is unavoidable, a

means of directing people around them,such as a visually contrasting guard rail,is provided;

b. they have an unobstructed width(excluding any projections into the space)along their length of at least 1200mm;

c. where they have an unobstructed widthof less than 1800mm, they have passingplaces at least 1800mm long and withan unobstructed width of at least 1800mm

at reasonable intervals, e.g. at corridorjunctions, to allow wheelchair users topass each other;

d. the floor is level or predominantly level(with a gradient no steeper than 1:60),with any section with a gradient of 1:20or steeper designed as an internal rampand in accordance with Table 1 andDiagram 3;

e. where a section of the floor has agradient, in the direction of travel,steeper than 1:60, but less steep than1:20, it rises no more than 500mmwithout a level rest area at least 1500mmlong (with a gradient no steeper than 1:60);

f. any sloping section extends the fullwidth of the corridor or, if not, theexposed edge is clearly identified byvisual contrast and, where necessary,

protected by guarding;g. any door opening towards a corridor,

which is a major access route or anescape route, should be recessed sothat, when fully open, it does not projectinto the corridor space, except wherethe doors are to minor utility facilities,such as small store rooms and lockedduct cupboards;

h. any door from a unisex wheelchair-

accessible toilet projects when openinto a corridor that is not a majoraccess route or an escape route,provided the corridor is at least1800mm wide at that point;

i. on a major access route or an escaperoute, the wider leaf of a series ofdouble doors with leaves of unequalwidth is on the same side of the corridorthroughout the length of the corridor;

j. floor surface finishes with patterns thatcould be mistaken for steps or changesof level are avoided;

k. floor finishes are slip resistant;

l. any glazed screens alongside a corridorare clearly defined with manifestationon the glass that complies with ApprovedDocument K, section 7.

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Note:In respect of 3.14(b), for schoolbuildings, the preferred corridor widthdimension is 2700mm where there arelockers within the corridor.

Internal lobbies

Design considerations3.15 An internal lobby should allow awheelchair user, with or without a companion,or a person pushing a pram or buggy tomove clear of one door before attemptingto open the second door, as indicated in2.27, under External lobbies.

Provisions

3.16 Internal lobbies will satisfy

Requirement M1 or M2 if:a. their length with single swing doors is

in accordance with Diagram 10;

b. their length with double swing doors isat least (DP1 + DP2 + 1570mm);

c. their width (excluding any projectionsinto the space) is at least 1200mm (or(DL1 or DL2) + 300mm) whichever is thegreater when single leaf doors are used,and at least 1800mm when double leaf

doors are used;

d. glazing within the lobby does not createdistracting reflections;

e. any junctions of floor surface materialsat the entrance to the lobby area do notcreate a potential trip hazard;

f. any columns, ducts and similar fullheight elements that project into thelobby by more than 100mm are protected

by a visually contrasting guard rail.Vertical circulation within

the building


3.17 A passenger lift is the most suitablemeans of vertical access and should beprovided wherever possible. However,given the space constraints in somebuildings, it may not always be possible

to install the type and size of passenger liftthat would be suitable for use by all, andother options may need to be consideredto provide for users with mobility impairments.

3.18 Signs indicating the location ofa lifting device accessible by mobility-impaired people should be clearly visiblefrom the building entrance. Additionally, asign identifying the floor reached should beprovided on each landing in a location that

can be easily seen from the lifting deviceand is designed so that it contrasts visuallywith its surrounding.

3.19 Whatever lifting device is chosen,internal stairs should always be providedas an alternative means of vertical access,and designed to suit ambulant disabledpeople and those with impaired sight.

3.20 A ramp may also be provided on aninternal circulation route to a suitable lifting

device, if a change of level is unavoidable.

Provision of lifting devices


3.21 For all buildings, a passenger liftis the most suitable form of access forpeople moving from one storey to another.

3.22 For existing buildings, and inexceptional circumstances for newdevelopments with particular constraints

(e.g. a listed building or an infill site in ahistoric town centre), where a passengerlift cannot be accommodated, a verticallifting platform (platform lift), although notequivalent to a passenger lift, may beconsidered as an alternative option toprovide access for persons with impairedmobility.

3.23 In exceptional circumstances in anexisting building, a wheelchair platform

stairlift may be considered, providedits installation does not conflict withrequirements for means of escape.

Provisions

3.24 The provision of lifting devices willsatisfy Requirement M1 or M2 if:

a. new developments have a passenger liftserving all storeys;

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b. new developments, where due to siteconstraints a passenger lift cannot beaccommodated to provide access topersons with impaired mobility, have alifting platform, of a type designed forthe vertical height to be travelled;

c. existing buildings have a passenger liftserving all storeys or, if a passenger liftcannot reasonably be accommodatedto provide access to persons withimpaired mobility, they have a liftingplatform, of a type designed for thevertical height to be travelled;

d. existing buildings have a wheelchairplatform stairlift serving an intermediatelevel or