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 Length
The gradient of the ramp should ideally be a minimum of 1: 12 ideally 1:15 where possible. Along the length there should be regular flat rest areas or turning platforms where space is minimal. The ramp is manufactured in modules of up to 2 metres long and width depending on requirement so consideration should be given to access
Width
An ideal width is 1.5 metres where possible as this allows 2 wheelchairs to pass each other, however as a general rule 1.2 metres is perfectly acceptable. Many cases exist where these dimensions are not possible and in these cases it is acceptable to install a ramp for people with disabilties which is narrower, however the ramp usable width should not be less than 75 cm of clear walkway width which is OK for standard wheelchairs.
Handrail
Handrail should be a minimum of 40 mm diameter and centres and in the case of horizontal handrail sacings between the rails should not exceed 45 cm. Where children are regularly using the ramp unattended, it maybe advisable to either infill the handrailsor use a balustrade type handrail with centre of the upstands no greater than 10 cm. The balustrade should also have a sighting area above the infill where traffic maybe and issue so that smaller chidren or people in a wheelchair can see clearly the other side.
Turning Platforms
Turning platforms can minimise space taken by the ramp and can be used at the extremities of the access ramp. Ramp turning platforms should have a minimum width the same as the ramp and a length of a minimum of 10 cm longer than the width of both ramps, to allow a good sized space between the handrail return at the centre of the ramp, thus preventing a potential hand trap.
Rest Platforms
These should be positioned as often as possible and a good guide is a height at 100 cm and a ramp angle of 1:20 then the maximum spacing should be no more than 10 metres, 1 :15 a good spacing should be no more than 7.5 metres and 1:12 should be no more than 5 metres .
Side Upstands
These are fitted to the sides of the ramp and prevent the users from walking off and should be at least 10 cm high.
Access Stair
A stair should ideally be fitted to the platform nearest the door so that quick access from the door is available.
Further information in all forms of Disabled Living and Access for the UK can be obtained by clicling this link Government Disability Advice For Various Applications
We can offer advise on any application for our Public Building Access Ramps designed under 'the approaches to buildings BS 8300 :2001` which does include a full design service.
To see a larger range of Ra'alloy disabled ramp projects please click here
Whatever your ramp requirement or assistance in design please contact us
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