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handrail if required for ambulant users
40 mm diameter galvanised pipe handrail on uprights at 1,500 mm centres
150 × 150 mm concrete footing for uprights cast in a sleeve and grout in uprights
Figure 2 Footpaths.
Ramps on accessible routes must have:
● a maximum gradient of 1:12
● a maximum rise between landings of 750 mm
● an upstand of at least 75 mm where there is a drop-o side
● level landings at both top and bottom
● handrails on both sides and around landings.
Where a person can fall 1 m or more, a barrier is needed that complies with Building Code clause F4 Safety from falling and a handrail between 900–1,000 mm high.
Residential building access
Although the legislation governing accessible routes does not apply to residential dwellings, where possible, the guidelines provided by D1/AS1 and NZS 4121:2001 should be followed.
Vehicle access, car parking and garages
People with disabilities can often drive, so they need vehicle access and car parking up to the house. There are no special driveway requirements, but it’s recommended that parking areas are 3.5 m wide for wheelchair users and
3 m wide for ambulant disabled people.
If possible, a garage should have direct access into the house to provide:
● shelter
● security
● storage and battery recharging space for electric mobility scooters.
The garage should also be wide enough for a wheelchair user to get in and out of the car (see Figure 1). Access between the garage and house should be either level or ramped. An automatic door opener makes access easier.
maximum camber or cross-fall on footpath is 1:50
if paving blocks or bricks are used, joints must be ush and level
75 mm thick concrete path with slip-resistant broomed nish or asphalt
no soft ground adjacent to path
1,000 mm
300 mm
1,000 mm minimum
1,800 mm to allow passing
Figure 3
Covered level entry and wide entry door.
Paths, ramps and stairs
The access path should have as few steps and changes of level as possible. Where a change in level can’t be avoided, construct a sloping path or ramp with a gradient of no more than 1:12 – a gradient of between 1:15 and 1:20 is preferred.
Paths and ramps should preferably be at least 1,200 mm wide to allow space for someone to walk beside and assist a person with a disability (see Figure 2). They should have a non-slip surface and no obstacles. If paved, the joints between pavers should be ush and even. Ramps should also have either a minimum 75 mm upstand or an edge rail that is no more than 75 mm above the ramp.
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PHOTO – LIFEMARK