Disabled Access to Public Buildings - We Can Help
January 2016 saw the introduction of a new law which requires there to be disabled access provided to all public buildings, falling under the Disability Act 2005. This would require that the necessary premises would provide some means of access for all people with disabilities, whether this be a ramp or hydraulic lift. The 'new' law actually was passed in 2005, but took 10 years to come into effect.
So has very business installed the necessary access points for people with disabilities? The answer is no. Many, I'm sure, are not aware of their new responsibilities and the potential consequences should they not comply.
Building Regulations Part M
So what legislation covers this area? Part M of the Building Regulations deals with Access for People with Disabilities and details the provisions which need to be made. This document can be broken down into the following parts:
- M1 Adequate provision will be made for people to access and use a building, its facilities and its environs.
- M2 Adequate provision will be made for people to approach and access an extension to a building.
- M3 If sanitary facilities are provided in a building that is to be extended, adequate sanitary facilities shall be provided for people within the extension.
- M4 Part M does not apply to works in connection with extensions to and material alterations of existing dwellings, providing that such works to not create a new dwelling.
Accessibility Considerations For Buildings
Well, apart from the fact that it is now a legal requirement to provide access for people with disabilities, why else should it be provided?
15% of the worlds population are living with some sort of a disability. Not having a disabled access, you are alienating 15% of people who may be visiting your premises. Making their visit a more comfortable experience is an extremely important consideration, and especially in the case of businesses. Not having what a customer desires is one thing, but excluding a customer and making it hard or impossible for them to access your building when you have what they need is another issue entirely.
National Disability Authority recommendations are the best guidelines for keeping all access points disability friendly, reducing the risk of injury and providing safe access.
Can We Help?
- Discuss your project in depth
- Friendly service
- Design advice
- Get a quote
- Or call us on 086 1408442
The Role Of The National Disability Authority
The role of the NDA is to provide advice and information to the Irish government on the best practices for improving the lives of people with disabilities. Their functions include: "research, developing and collaborating on the development of relevant statistics; assisting in the development of standards; developing codes of practice and monitoring the implementation of standards, codes and employment of persons with disabilities in the public service". (source: NDA-About Us)
Part M Handrail For Ramps Or Steps
So what are the best codes pf practice when installing a handrail at access points of public buildings? How can we ensure that the handrail is fit for purpose, and that it complies with the needs of all who might be using it, including those with disabilities?
The following points detail the best construction of a handrail, keeping user safety as the priority:
- The handrail should be smooth and continuous from beginning to end, with no terminations. Kee Access fittings are designed to fit into each other snugly, eliminating any overlaps between the fitting and the tube.
- The handrail should always be ended in such a way that reduces/eliminates the risk of clothing getting caught. This can be achieved by turning the end of the handrail downwards, or constructing a D-return.
- There should be a closed end at each end of the handrail, allowing a user with poor eyesight to realise that the handrail has finished.
- Also for visual disabilities, the handrail should be colour coated in a colour which stands out from its surroundings, making it easier to be seen. By coating the rail, this will also ensure that it is not cold to the touch, which can cause discomfort in colder conditions.
Safe Access Rails
Kee Access rails are quite easy to assemble once designed, as they are simply connected by tightening up a grub screw with an allen key. Although the tubing can be pre-cut, it is better to leave the lengths of rail slightly longer as it is difficult to accurately measure the handrail length when offsite. When installed, a Kee Access handrail is aesthetically pleasing, and will provide a smooth and continuous finish.
Part M Compliant Handrail Fittings
Kee Access handrails are extremely durable and easy to install. The specialised fittings are designed to ensure that they and the tube connect together snugly, avoiding any breaks or overlaps.
Can We Help?
- Discuss your project in depth
- Friendly service
- Design advice
- Get a quote
- Or call us on 086 1408442
