Originally Northdown were going to cheapskate on the job and they were putting in 22mm upstands and handrails when the DDA calls for min 45mm We were promised it would be sorted ..............long on promises and short on acts..........................
This job has been left unfinished now for over 90 days..................we live in a building site.........
Am I angry YES because of promises that were made in not just one meeting but TWO face to face meetings Further to this the ramp does not meet the specifucations as laid down by both the DDA of 2010 and code M1 of the building regulations.
The Disability Discrimination Act of 2010 states the following
Disability ramps are an essential component of building accessibility for people with mobility difficulties. They create a smooth and convenient pathway from the entrance to the interior of a building, enabling people with wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids to navigate safely and efficiently. Ramp installation is governed by strict rules in the UK, and adherence to these guidelines is a legal requirement for all property owners. This article will provide an in-depth understanding of the regulations, the importance of ramps, the key features of compliant ramps, the difference between temporary and permanent ramps, and maintenance and safety considerations.
The Equality Act 2010
The Equality Act 2010 aims to protect people with disabilities from discrimination and ensure that they have equal opportunities to participate in society. This Act stipulates that service providers must make reasonable adjustments to remove disadvantages that people with disabilities face in accessing services or facilities. Under the Act, service providers must provide ramps that are safe, accessible and comply with the relevant regulations.
For instance, the ramps should be designed in such a way that they are not too steep or too narrow for wheelchair users. The gradient of the ramp should not exceed 1:12, which means that for every inch of height, there should be 12 inches of length. This ensures that the ramp is not too steep for wheelchair users to navigate.
Additionally, the ramp should be wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. The minimum width for a ramp is 1.5 meters, which provides enough space for a wheelchair to navigate. The surface of the ramp should also be slip-resistant, to prevent accidents from occurring.
Building Regulations Part M
Building Regulations Part M outlines the technical guidelines for the construction, design and installation of ramps in new and existing buildings. These regulations stipulate the measurements, materials, gradients, landings, and handrails that must be used to create safe and accessible ramps. Property owners must ensure that ramps comply with these regulations to avoid legal and safety problems.
For instance, the ramp should have a landing at the top and bottom to provide a safe place for wheelchair users to rest. The landing should be at least 1.2 meters long and as wide as the ramp. The handrails should also be installed on both sides of the ramp to provide additional support for wheelchair users.
Moreover, the materials used to construct the ramp should be durable and able to withstand the weight of a wheelchair. The ramp should also be regularly maintained to ensure that it remains safe and accessible for wheelchair users.
In conclusion, the installation of disability ramps is crucial for ensuring that people with disabilities have equal access to services and activities. The Equality Act 2010 and Building Regulations Part M provide guidelines for the construction, design, and installation of ramps to ensure that they are safe and accessible for wheelchair users. It is essential for service providers and property owners to comply with these regulations to avoid legal and safety problems.
Ramp Width and Landings
The ramp width must be sufficient to accommodate the wheelchair or mobility device, and the landing areas at the top and bottom of the ramp must be level and spacious to allow manoeuvring. It is also crucial that the surface is slip-resistant, especially in wet weather.
Handrails and Edge Protection
Ramps should have continuous handrails on both sides of the ramp with a minimum height of 90cm. Upstands should be 40-45.. and handrail should be 45-50mm. Handrails help users to maintain balance and stability while ascending or descending the ramp. It is important to ensure that the handrails are securely fixed. Additionally, edge protection can be provided at the ramp sides to prevent accidents.
Weather-Related Safety Measures
Weather conditions can significantly affect the safety of ramps, especially in winter. Property owners should ensure that the surface is free from water, snow, or ice, to prevent slips and falls. They may also consider installing anti-slip coatings or gritting materials to improve traction and reduce the risk of accidents.