All new buildings that are open to the public in England need to make “reasonable provisions” so that everyone, regardless of age or physical ability, can access them safely and easily.
This requirement is included in Part M of the Building Regulations 2010, and similar rules are also in place for properties in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
However, the regulations are not applied retrospectively to older premises, which often weren’t designed with mobility impairment in mind. This means it can feel more challenging to work out how to provide access if you work in one of these older properties.
The good news is there are several ways in which you can provide step-free access to a building, even if you’re making the change retrospectively. Two of the most common options are ramps or platform lifts.
Ramps
Ramps are a simple solution where you have a few steps to enter or exit a building. This kind of access is best fitted when you only have a small incline, as the general rule is that you need one foot of ramp for every inch of the incline.
When you are exploring ramps at your premises, be sure to account for the space you will need to ensure wheelchair users can turn easily on corners.
Platform lifts
Platform lifts are ideal when you have a steeper incline to navigate or when you are limited on space – or a combination of the two.
They are also incredibly easy to use, and don’t require significant structural alterations to install on existing buildings. In particular, open platform lifts are popular because of both their ease of use and ease of installation.
This type of lift can provide elevation of up to three metres. They operate very smoothly and quietly and can be installed quickly. As a result, they are an excellent option if you are keen to address accessibility at your premises sooner rather than later.
A further benefit is their low maintenance and running costs, so you won’t have to worry about adding a significant ongoing financial burden to your balance sheet if you invest in an open platform lift for your property.