Question 1

What is the maximum ramp gradient allowed?

Accepted Answer

The maximum gradient depends on the going (length of the ramp flight). For goings up to 2 m, the maximum gradient is 1:12. For goings up to 5 m, the maximum is 1:15. For goings up to 10 m, the maximum is 1:20. The preferred gradient for all ramps is 1:20 or shallower. These requirements are set out in AD-M Diagram 1 and BS 8300-1:2018 Table 2.

Question 2

What landings are required on a ramp?

Accepted Answer

A level landing is required at the top and bottom of every ramp. Intermediate landings are required where the going of a single flight exceeds the maximum for the gradient used (e.g. every 10 m at 1:20, every 5 m at 1:15). Landings must be at least 1,200 mm long (1,500 mm preferred) and the full width of the ramp. A 1,500 mm x 1,500 mm turning space is needed where direction changes occur.

Question 3

What width should a ramp be?

Accepted Answer

The minimum width between handrails is 1,500 mm for ramps used by the general public and in non-domestic buildings. For dwellings, a minimum width of 900 mm is acceptable. Where ramps are used by wheelchair users and pedestrians together, 1,800 mm width is preferred to allow passing. These are from AD-M and BS 8300-1.

Question 4

Do ramps need handrails on both sides?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ramps with a rise greater than 300 mm require handrails on both sides at 900-1,000 mm height, with a second lower rail at 600 mm (for wheelchair users and children). Handrails must extend 300 mm beyond the top and bottom of the ramp, have a profile that can be gripped (40-50 mm diameter circular or oval), and contrast visually with the background.

Going (Flight Length)	Max. Gradient	Max. Rise per Flight	Notes
Up to 2 m	1:12	166 mm	Steepest permitted — short ramps only
Up to 5 m	1:15	333 mm	Moderate length ramps
Up to 10 m	1:20	500 mm	Preferred gradient for all ramps
Over 10 m	1:20 max (with landings every 10 m)	500 mm per flight	Intermediate landings required

Parameter	Requirement
Top landing length	≥ 1,200 mm (1,500 mm preferred)
Bottom landing length	≥ 1,200 mm (1,500 mm preferred)
Intermediate landing	≥ 1,500 mm long, full ramp width
Turning space (change of direction)	1,500 mm x 1,500 mm unobstructed
Cross-fall on landing	≤ 1:50 (for drainage only)

Parameter	Requirement
Upper handrail height	900-1,000 mm above ramp surface
Lower handrail height	600 mm above ramp surface
Handrail diameter	40-50 mm (circular) or equivalent oval profile
Extension beyond ramp	300 mm at top and bottom
Visual contrast	Handrail must contrast with background
Required when	Rise exceeds 300 mm

Feature	Requirement
Raised kerb	≥ 100 mm high on open edges
Surface finish	Slip-resistant in wet and dry conditions
Tactile warning	Corduroy hazard warning at top and bottom (non-domestic)
Cross-fall on ramp	≤ 1:50 (for drainage)

Part M Ramp Gradient Requirements

Maximum Ramp Gradients (AD-M Diagram 1 / BS 8300-1 Table 2)

Landing Requirements

Handrail Requirements

Edge Protection and Surface Finish

Scotland & Northern Ireland

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