Steps & Ramps : Key Design Principles
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Ramps
- the recommended 1 maximum ramp gradient for ambulant disabled and wheelchair users is 1:20 , although steeper gradients of up to 1:10 may be acceptable over short distances;
- the recommended 2 minimum width of ramp to accommodate all types and abilities of user is 1200mm; if heavy use by wheelchairs is envisaged, passing places should be constructed or the ramp width increased to 1700mm;
- flat landings provide convenient resting places for wheelchair users, disabled and elderly people; the recommended 2 distance between landings ranges from 9.00m to 19.00m depending upon location and gradient;
- the provision of a handrail at least 1000mm high on the down slope edge of a path will improve ease of use for disabled people; where this is not possible, a 100mm kerb can be installed, allowing a 1000mm strip of land between the kerb and the top of the slope;
- bends should be of a sufficient radius to provide an adequate turning space for wheelchair users; this varies from 1500mm for manual wheelchairs to 5000mm for larger motorised versions; the ramp surface should be firm and even, stable, non-slip and should have no loose particles in excess of 5mm in size; in the countryside, well compacted crushed rock or stone sub-base with a high proportion of fines is the most suitable material.
1 Countryside Commission (1994)
2 BT Community Partnership and Fieldfare Trust (undated)