National Commission Persons with

Disability
December 2000
ISBN 99909-71-08-0
These guidelines are to be reviewed within a year from
publication.
Comments, suggestions and modifications are to be
addressed to the:
National Commission
Persons with Disability

Tel: 487789; 448521

Centru Hidma Socjali

Textelefon: 446536

Triq il-Kbira San Guzepp

Fax: 484609

Sta. Venera HMR 18

Email:
knpd@kemmunet.net.mt

Malta

Webpage: www.knpd.org

Drawings adapted by Adrian Fenech

Produced by Outlook Coop - Malta
Web Version - IT Soltuions - Malta
The information on this site is subject to a disclaimer
and a copyright notice.

List of Figures
1. Kerb details.

11

2. Alignment of kerb ramps.

12

3. Kerb ramp arrangement at street corners.

12

4. Kerb ramp arrangement at street corners.

12

5 . Grate orientation to path of travel.

13

6. Parking provisions for wheelchair users parallel to kerb.

14

7. Parking provision perpendicular to kerb.

14

8. Permissible minimum ramp and landing dimensions for straight run

ramps.

15

9. Layout showing dimensions for ramps with 90 degree turns.

16

10. Layout showing dimensions for ramps with 180 degree turns.

16

11. Unacceptable stairs.

18

12. Acceptable stairs.

18

13. Max widths of stairs between handrails.

19

14. Acceptable handrail profiles.

20

15. Handrail dimensions.

21

16. Dimensions for staircases with enclosed well.

21

17. Dimensions for open well staircase.

22

18. Door widths.

24

19. Doors to have glazed panel.

24

20. Door ironmongery.

24

21. Lobby Minimum Dimensions.

24

22. Permissable Threshold Level.

26

23. Hazards of Inadequately Anchored Mats.

26

24. Minimum widths of corridors.

29

25. Turning Space in Corridors.

30

26. Corridor widths for 90 degree turns.

30

27. Corridor widths for turns around obstructions.

30

28. Passing Alcoves in lieu of 1.5m width corridors.

31

29. Lift dimensions.

32

30. Toilet room (sectional elevation).

35

31. Toilet room (plan).

35

32. Layout showing shower cubicle for use by disabled persons.

37

33. Control height for window opening / closing controls.

38

34. Height of power sockets and lighting switches.

38

35. The international symbol of access.

40

36. Provision for wheelchair users in areas of assembly.

43

IMPORTANT
Most of the dimensions which appear in these guidelines should be regarded as MINIM UM
requirements.
Therefore, where circumstances permit, more generous dimensions should be used.

Contents
Preface

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Layout Of This Document

3.0 Main Goal

4.0 Overall Objectives

4.1 External Environment

4.2 Entrances to Buildings

10

4.3 Internal Environment

10

5.0 The External Environment Of Buildings

11

5.1 Access

11

5.2 Kerbs And Pavements

11

5.3 Car Parking

13

5.4 Approaches to the Entrance of a Building

15

5.5 Ramps

15

5.6 Stairs

17

5.7 Handrails

20

5.8 Guards and Barriers

21

6.0 Entrances To Buildings

23

6.1 Entrance Doorways

23

6.2 Entrance Lobbies

25

6.3 Thresholds

26

7.0 Internal Environment Of Buildings

27

7.1 Building Surface Finishes

27

7.2 Internal Lobbies

28

7.3 Internal Doors

28

7.4 Corridors and Passageways

29

7.5 Passenger Lifts

31

7.6 Sanitary Facilities

33

7.7 Sanitary Accommodation

34

7.8 Lighting

37

7.9 Counters and Checkouts

39

7.10 Seating and Tables

39

8.0 Communication

40

8.1 Signs

40

8.2 Other Aids to Communication

41

9.0 Miscellaneous Building Types Requirements

42

9.1 Restaurants and Bars

42

9.2 Facilities Providing Accommodation for the Public (e.g. hotel

bedrooms, etc.)

42

9.3 Assembly Facilities (e.g. auditoria, theatres, stadia, etc.)

43

References

44

PREFACE
REMOVING DISABLING BARRIERS
Disabling barriers are often the single most important cause of social isolation and
discrimination which many people, especially people with impairments, have to confront in
their daily lives. Very often, disabling barriers are also the root cause preventing individuals
with disability from enjoying an acceptable quality of life. Such barriers may easily be
identified. They include inaccessible:

design of buildings;
modes of transport and communication
discriminatory attitudes.

A widespread misconception is that architectural barriers only effect people who are
disabled: this is not so.
Such barriers seriously disable a wide spectrum of users. Elderly people, pregnant women,
families with young children and workers carrying heavy objects, are amongst the groups
which spring to mind. In respect of the elderly, it is important to bear in mind that ours is
an ageing population, an inescapable fact which makes it imperative for the building
industry in general to comply with the principles of Design for All.
Another misconception is that disabling barriers are part of the immutable laws of nature
and, as such, they can never be changed. This is clearly not true. Disabling barriers are
man- made, and, as such,they can be removed. What is required is a willingness to take
positive and timely action.
Timely action consists of tackling disabling barriers at the design stage. The majority of
developers only confront the issue of Access for All, after a development project has been
completed. Unfortunately, this approach usually involves them in extra costs, costs which
they often find prohibitive and which they are therefore reluctant to incur. However, when
the issue of Access for All is tackled at the design stage, the vast majority of problems
associated with alternative access are solved efficiently and with a minimum overall outlay.
That is why we believe that if the concept of Design for All is given priority right at the
inception stage of any development project, compliance with the provisions of the Equal
Opportunities (Persons with Disability) Act and other Access for All regulations, will be
trouble-free and cost effective.
Finally, this document was produced by a team of people made up of Mr. F. Bezzina, Mr. F.
Cachia and my self on behalf of the Secretariat of the Kummissjoni Nazzjonali Persuni
b'Dizabilita and the following group of architects whom I would like to take the opportunity
to thank for the sterling contribution they have made and are making in this, and other,
accessibility-related issues:

P.E.Camilleri BE&A (Hons.), A&CE

Ph. Grech BE&A (Hons), MSc(Bir), MCIWEM, A&CE
V. Schembri BE&A (Hons.), A&CE
J. H. Spiteri BE&A (Hons), MSc(Edin), PhD(Leeds), MCIOB, A&CE (Team Coordinator)
H. Zammit BE&A., Dip C Eng (Glas), PG Dip (Env Mgt), A&CE.

Joseph M. Camilleri
CHAIR
KUMMISSJONI NAZZJONALI PERSUNI B'DIZABILITA

1.0 INTRODUCTION
Architecture should involve the creation of spaces for use by people. In the organisation of
such spaces, shortcomings in design may create 'architectural barriers'. Architectural
barriers are everywhere in existing buildings: in schools, shopping areas, workplaces and a
large number of buildings that are intended for and are in fact used by the general public.
The environment continues to hamper and frustrate the functioning of disabled persons,
while most 'able-bodied' persons are unaware of the problem. Within the existing building
stock, providing access for all may require a number of alterations, including structural
alterations.
The question of providing access for all in new buildings has deeper significance than merely
providing means to negotiate physical barriers (e.g., ramps in changes of levels, etc.). New
buildings should be designed in such a way that physical barriers would not exist as a
matter of course. This requires a new mentality towards the design of buildings and building
services.
A number of publications containing architectural design guidelines for Accessibility for All
exist. However, these criteria are not uniform; they vary in standards and may give rise to
some degree of ambiguity. This publication has been designed to incorporate the standards
that will be adopted by the National Commission Persons with Disability in executing its
responsibility and authority under the Equal Opportunities Act, 2000. It includes graphical
illustration of the standards contained in the text, for further ease of reference.

2.0 LAYOUT OF THIS DOCUMENT

This document is laid out in a manner to assist designers and all those concerned in
determining the spatial layout and fitting of buildings. It is important that all the features
relating to building development are designed in a manner that conforms to Access for All
requirements.
The applicability of this document is primarily to all those forms of development scheduled
in the circular PA 3/99 issued on 14 December 1999. However, the objective of Access for
All should not be perceived solely as a legal requirement, but one that enhances the usage
of any development
Sections 3 and 4 of this document indicate the basic overall objectives of Access for All.
These sections outline in a general way the objectives that are considered vital to achieving
the aspirations expressed in the Equal Opportunities Act 2000. These general objectives are
articulated in greater detail in the subsequent sections.
For ease of reference the features required to provide Access for All have been sub-divided
into three building
zones. The first (Section 5) relates to the 'outside' areas of buildings, including car parks
and approaches to the building. The standards concerning ramps, staircases and handrails
included in this section refer to both outdoor
and indoor areas. Therefore they are not repeated in section 7 concerning internal areas.
This is followed by section 6 which describes the desirable features at the interface of
buildings with the external environment, namely the entrances (and exits) to buildings.
Finally, section 7 provides guidance to Access for All features within the internal areas of
buildings. This section includes sub sections that are likely to be relevant to all buildings,
such as WC facilities and lobby and corridor dimensions.
The final section of this document refer to features that are likely to be relevant to particular
types of buildings, such as restaurants, hotels etc.

3.0 MAIN GOAL

In designing buildings it is important that everybody including persons with disability are
able to reach and use the internal and external facilities associated with the building or
facility.

4.0 OVERALL OBJECTIVES

4.1 EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT

A suitable means of access to the building is to be provided for persons with

disability in outside areas, from the point of entrance to the building, and from car
parking provided within the building site.
Suitable recognition shall be made of the difficulties encountered by wheelchair users
and ambulant persons with disability in negotiating changes of levels.
The risks to persons with disability, particularly those with sight disabilities, must be
taken into consideration when designing routes passing close to buildings.
Persons with disability should be able to use the principal access to a building and
not be relegated to a secondary entrance whether they are a customer, visitor or a
member of staff. Where this is not possible, an additional entrance is to be provided,
giving suitable internal access to the principal access/ entrance area.
Consideration should be given to providing alternative means of access as the needs
of all persons with disability vary.
All approaches should be level. In exceptional cases, where a level approach cannot
be provided, gradients should be kept as low as possible.
Where possible, easy going steps should complement a ramped approach.
Consideration should be given to the space requirements of persons with disability in
approaching buildings from the point of view of the:

1. the characteristics of their impairment and the mechanical assistance they employ,
2. those who accompany persons with disability, and
3. the need to provide access to persons overtaking or coming in the opposite direction.

Routes to entrances to buildings should be clearly signed and appropriately lit.

Single steps and obstructions near entrances should be avoided.
The use of colour, details, materials and position to distinguish the entrance from the
facade should be
carefully considered.

4.2 ENTRANCES TO BUILDINGS

A suitable means of entry into the building is to be provided for persons with
disability from outside areas, to the point of entrance to the building, to entrance
lobbies and to the interior of the building.
Entrances to buildings should be placed in a logical relationship with routes that
serve them and be easily distinguishable from the facade.
Clear signs indicating the entrance should be provided. These should be visible from
all approaches to the building. Signs hanging perpendicular to the building facade are
useful.
Door closers should be adjusted to the minimum force necessary, be slow in
operation and regularly maintained.
Thresholds should be flush wherever possible.
Lobbies should be sized to allow wheelchair users to move clear of the first door
before negotiating the second.
Signs should be obvious and clear indicating where visitors should go to find
reception, information point, lifts stairs or WCs.
Exit doors, particularly those intended for emergency egress are as important as
entrances. Hence, similar conditions apply to emergency exits.

4.3 INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT

A suitable means of access is to be provided for persons with disability in all areas.
The layout of spaces and minimum dimensions of all circulation spaces and other
facilities should be designed to allow, inter alia, easy and safe access by wheelchair
users and ambulant disabled persons.
Clear signs indicating facilities should be provided.
Door closers should be adjusted to the minimum force necessary, be slow in
operation and regularly maintained.
Changes in level should be avoided wherever possible in the internal layout of
buildings.
Internal lobbies should be sized to allow wheelchair users to move clear of the first
door before negotiating a second set of doors.
Sanitary facilities suitable for use by persons with disability should be provided both
in terms of location within the building as well as in terms of the dimensions of the
facilities intended for use by disabled persons and the sanitary fittings incorporated
in these facilities.

5.0 THE EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT OF BUILDINGS

5.1 ACCESS
5.1.1 Access shall be provided through the principal entra nce. Where separate entrances
are provided for visitors or customers and staff, the respective entrances shall each be
accessible by persons with disability.
5.1.2 In exceptional cases, where the space outside a principal entrance is restricted, or
likely to be congested, or the site is on sloping ground, access through an alternative
entrance may be accepted, if this is also intended for
general use.
5.1.3 Hanging signs, lights, awnings and similar objects shall have a minimum clearance of
2.00 metres above the ground or finished floor level of the access route or usable area.

5.2 KERBS AND PAVEMENTS

At entrances to public buildings and road crossings, ramped kerbs should be provided. The
following principles apply:
5.2.1 Where a new pavement is being constructed or an existing pavement is being
renewed ramps should have a gradient as defiend in the table in section 5.5.1. The
pavement should have a tactile surface extending 1.5m or the full width of the pavement,
whichever the greater (Figure 1).

5.2.2 A textured surface or painted edge is desirable to assist the partially sighted.
5.2.3 Sudden changes in level should be avoided. (Figure 1)
5.2.4 Figures 2 to 4 show recommended kerb ramp locations at intersections.

5.2.5 Where gratings are necessary, these should to oriented with the long dimension
perpendicular to pedestrian route. The maximum width between ribs is not to exceed 10mm
in the direction of traffic flow.

5.2.6 Figure 5 Grate orientation to path of travel

5.3 CAR PARKING

5.3.1 Car parking bays for use by persons with disability shall have a minimum width of
3600mm and a minimum
length of 4800mm (perpendicular parking) or 6600mm (parallel parking). (Figures 6 and 7).
5.3.2 Suitable, adequate car parking space provision shall be made for persons with
disability. The following table indicates the number of parking spaces suitable for disabled
persons required in terms of accessible spaces per total number of parking spaces.

Total number of
parking spaces
3 - 10

Number of accessible of spaces required

1 space*

11 - 25

1 van accessible space**

26 - 50

2 including 1 van accessible space

51 - 75

3 including 1 van accessible space

76-100

4 including 1 van accessible space

101-150

5 including 1 van accessible space

151-200

6 including 1 van accessible space

201-300

7 including 1 van accessible space

301-400

8 including 1 van accessible space

401-500

9 including 2 van accessible spaces

501-1000

2% including 3 van accessible spaces

20 + 1 per 100 or fraction, including minimum 1

More than 1000 van accessible space per 8 accessible spaces or
fraction thereof
* A space refers to the dimensions indicated in paragraph 5.3.1.
** A van accessible space should be minimum 7300mm long and 2900mm wide with
2300mm headroom.
5.3.3 A sign incorporating the symbol of access shall identify car parking spaces for persons
with disability. The sign shall be readily visible from a vehicle at the access to the parking
area, or guide signs shall be provided to indicate the direction of the space. Bays should be
identified as provision for disabled drivers or passengers only.
5.3.4 Parking bays should be close to entrances to the facilities the car park serves - within
50m if uncovered, 100m if covered.

5.3.5 Kerbs between the parking area and routes to buildings should be dropped to give
access to wheelchair users.
5.3.5 The car park surface should be smooth and even and free from loose stones.

5.4 APPROACHES TO THE ENTRANCE OF A BUILDING

5.4.1 The approach shall preferably be level. Where it is not possible to have a level
approach the slope should not
be steeper than the gradients indic ated in table 5.5.1, below.
5.4.2 The approach shall have a clear width of at least 1200mm.
5.4.3 Where a pedestrian route to the building is intended for use by persons with different
needs, and where provision is made for bollards, rails or the like to limit vehicular access
the following criteria shall be observed:
i) The bollards, rails or other devices shall be located to give 1000mm clear width access.
ii) A textured surface to warn those with limited sight should be provided.
5.4.4 Polished floors are not acceptable for external areas.

5.5 RAMPS
The following conditions are to be adhered to in all instances where ramps are provided to
negotiate difference in levels, both in external as well as in internal areas.
5.5.1 Gradients
Gradients shall be no steeper than the values indicated below:
Vertical height of Ramp

Maximum permissible gradient

Less than 100mm

1:10

Less than 250mm

1:12

Less than 500mm

1:16

Greater than 500mm

1:20

5.5.2 Markings of change of level Where there is any change of level along a pedestrian
access route the position of the change shall be visibly and permanently marked.
5.5.3 Top and bottom landings shall have a textured surface.
5.5.4 Length of Ramp
The maximum horizontal length of a ramp should be limited to twelve (12) metres. Longer
ramps are to have
intermediate landings. (Figures 9 and 10)
5.5.5 Landings
Flights shall have landings at the top and bottom, each of whose length shall not be less
than 1200mm and, if necessary, intermediate landings, each of whose lengths is not less
than 1500mm, in all cases clear of any door swing. (See Figures 8 to 10 for dimensions of
ramps and landings)

5.5.6 Widths of Ramps

Ramps shall have flights whose surface widths are at least 1200mm and unobstructed
widths at least 1000mm.
5.5.7 Surface Finishes
Ramps shall have a surface which reduces the risk of slipping.
5.5.8 Where any material is likely to alter the character of a surface with which pedestrians
and vehicles are likely or intended to come in contact then appropriate consideration must
be given to ensuring that any risk of slipping is reduced to an appropriate degree.
5.5.9 Headroom All ramps and landings shall have a clear headroom throughout of at least
two metres.

Handrails for ramps

5.5.10 All ramps shall have at least one handrail that should be continuous along the length
of the ramp.
5.5.11 Ramps shall have a handrail on both sides of the ramp where the length of the ramp
exceeds 2.0 metres.
5.5.12 Ramps shall have a handrail on both sides of the ramp where the ramp is greater
than 1.5 metres in width.
5.5.13 The handrails should have a suitable profile (normally round) and manufactured with
appropriate materials to provide a good grip and should have a maximum outside diameter
of 50mm (Figure 14).
5.5.14 Ramps where crowding or heavy volumes of traffic can be anticipated shall
additionally have a central handrail where the flight is wider than 2400mm.
5.5.15 Handrails should give firm support.
5.5.16 Handrails shall extend at least 300mm beyond the beginning of the ramp and at
least 300mm beyond the end of the ramp.
5.5.17 Handrails should be fixed at a height of 900mm above the ground level of ramps and
1000mm above landings
(Figure 8).

Guarding for ramps

5.5.18 Ramps shall have a raised kerb at least 100mm high on any open side of a flight or a
landing, if no other equivalent protection is provided (Figure 8).

Adjacent steps to ramps

5.5.19 A ramp should always have an adjacent flight of steps to negotiate the difference in
levels connected by the ramp.

5.6 STAIRS
N.B. The conditions for stairs apply both to external as well as internal stairs.

Steepness of stairs
5.6.1
The angle of pitch of staircases shall be limited to 42 degrees in private stairs and 38
degrees in common/public stairs

Rise and going dimensions

5.6.2
In any flight of stairs all steps shall have the same rise height and the same going width
throughout the entire flight.
5.6.3 If the landing of an outside stair is formed by the ground and slopes across the width
of the flight, then
the rise of the step shall be measured at the mid-point of the width of the flight. However,
the variation at each end should not exceed 15mm from the normal rise adopted.
5.6.4 The normal relationship between the dimensions of the rise and going is that twice the
riser plus the going shall be between 550mm and 700mm. However, the rise of each step
shall not be greater than the figures
given in the Table below.

Stairs Riser Maximum

Private Stair 200mm

Stairway in external public and common areas 150mm
Internal stairway in public buildings 170mm

Construction of steps
5.6.5 Steps shall have level treads.
5.6.6 Open risers staircases will only be permitted in public areas where an alternative
staircase that has closed risers is provided in reasonable close vicinity to the open-riser
staircase.
5.6.7 Steps may have open risers but the treads shall then overlap each other by at least
16mm. Where open risers are constructed, the gap left should reject a 100mm sphere.
5.6.8 Recessed risers are not acceptable as they may cause persons with disability to trip.
(Figure 11)
5.6.9 To facilitate stair use by persons with disability, tread/riser/nosing profiles as
indicated in Figure 12 are recommended.

Width of flights
5.6.10 The minimum width of stairs in outdoor areas should be 1800mm provided that any
stairs in outside areas or places of assembly shall have no flight wider than 1800mm unless
it is divided by handrails into widths no greater than 1800mm. (Figure 13)
5.6.11 The minimum width of stairs in indoor areas should be 1200mm provided that any
stairs inside a public building shall have no flight wider than 1200mm unless it is divided by
handrails into widths no greater than
1200mm.
The width of flights, landings and ramps is to be measured as the unobstructed width
between walls or handrails, whichever is the narrower. Minor intrusions such as posts or
strings and skirting may be ignored.

Length of flights
5.6.12 The number of risers in between landings in a flight shall be limited to a maximum of
11 if a stairway is in a public building or serves an area used for assembly purposes.

Headroom
5.6.13 All stairs shall have a clear headroom over the length and width of the stairway and
its associated landings of at least two metres measured vertically from the line of pitch.

Staircase landings
5.6.14 Landings shall be provided at the top and bottom of every flight. The width and
depth of landing shall be large enough to provide at least 400mm clear space from any door
swing.
5.6.15 Part of the floor of the building may be considered as a landing.
5.6.16 To afford safe passage, landings shall be clear of any permanent obstruction.
5.6.17 A landing need not be provided between a flight and a door if the rise of the flight is
not more than 600mm and the door slides or opens away from the steps.
5.6.18 A door may swing across a landing at the bottom or top of a flight provided that it
will leave at least a clear space equivalent to the width of the flight.
5.6.19 Landings shall be level unless they are formed by the ground at the top or bottom of
a flight. They may then slope up to 1 in 20 provided that the ground is paved or otherwise
made firm.

5.7 Handrails
5.7.1 Handrails should be continuous to flights and across landings, with the rails
distinguishable from the background by colour and brightness.
5.7.2 Handrails should give firm support and should have a suitable profile (normally round)
with a maximum outside diameter of 50mm. See Figure 14 for guidance of acceptable
handrail profiles.
5.7.3 Indoor flights shall have a handrail on at least one side if they are less than 1200mm
wide. A handrail on each side should be provided for flights that are between 1200mm and
2400mm wide. Central handrails providing bays of 1200mm should be provided for flights
exceeding 2400mm in width.

5.7.4 Outdoor flights and those in areas of assembly shall have a handrail on both sides if
they are less than 1800mm wide. Flights wider than 1800mm shall be provided with central
handrails providing bays of not more than 1800mm in width.
5.7.5 Handrails shall extend at least 300mm from a point vertically above the lowest stair
nosing of a flight and at least 300mm from a point vertically above the top stair nosing of a
flight. (Figure 15)

5.7.6 The top of the handrail is to be 900mm above the pitch line of a flight and 1000mm
above the surface of a landing.
5.7.7 It is recommended that a second handrail is provided at a height of 650mm above the
line of pitch of the stairs.
5.7.8 For compliance with Access for All provisions, each building shall have at least one
staircase complying to the minimum dimensions shown in Figures 16 and 17 for staircases
with enclosed wells and open well staircases, serving all floors, apart from any necessary
mechanised vertical lift device suitable for wheelchair user.

5.8 GUARDS AND BARRIERS

5.8.1 Guarding shall be provided where it is reasonably necessary for safety to guard the
edges of any part of a raised floor, gallery, balcony, roof (including roof-lights and other
openings), and other places to which people have access, (unless it is only for the purpose
of maintenance or repair) and any light well, basement or similar sunken area next to a
building. Guarding shall also be provided where there is a difference in level between vehicle
parks, but not on ramps used only for vehicle access.
5.8.2 Any glazing panels used in guards or barriers shall be constructed of glass blocks or
laminated glass.

6.0 ENTRANCES TO BUILDINGS

6.1 ENTRANCE DOORWAYS

6.1.1 To be suitable as a means of access, an entrance door should provide:
i) sufficient space for manoeuvres.
ii) space outside the leading edge of the door to reduce the risk of wheelchairs striking a
wall.
iii) the opportunity to be warned of the approach of people from the other side of a door.
6.1.2 The principle entrance door should a have a minimum clear opening width of not less
than 900mm. (See Figure 18).

6.1.3 The principle entrance door should permit an unobstructed space on the side next to
the leading edge of the door of at least 300mm unless the door is controlled by a suitable
automatic control.
6.1.4 The principle entrance door should be provided with a glazed panel giving a zone of
visibility from a height of 900mm to 1500mm from the finished floor level wherever the
opening action of the door could constitute a hazard. (See Figure 19).
6.1.5 The principle entrance door should be designed, marked or signed in such a way so
that persons of different
needs can readily identify the glass.
6.1.6 The principle entrance door should be clearly marked to indicate whether the door is
to be pushed or pulled to open.

6.1.7 Where doors are fitted with self closing mechanisms, the pressure to open such doors
should not exceed
the following values:
i) external doors 2.50 kgf
ii) internal doors 2.25 kgf
iii) fire doors 6.75 kgf
6.1.8 An entrance fitted with a revolving door shall also have an adjacent door conforming
to paras. 6.1.1 to 6.1.7 above.
6.1.9 Exit doors, partic ularly those for emergency egress, are as important as entrances. A
minimum 900mm clear opening, level thresholds and external ramps where necessary also
apply to exits that are not combined with entrances.
6.1.10 Door furniture should be clearly distinguishable from the door using tonal contrast
and be designed and positioned to be easily reached and gripped. Door handles should
preferably be fixed at 1000mm above ground level. Figure 20 illustrates acceptable door
ironmongery.

6.2 ENTRANCE LOBBIES

6.2.1 Entrance lobbies shall be so laid out so as to permit a wheelchair user to move clear
of one door before using the next one.
6.2.2 Entrance lobbies shall be so laid out so as to give adequate space for anybody
accompanying a wheelchair user.
6.2.3
Entrance lobbies shall be so laid out so as to accommodate people moving in the opposite
direction.
6.2.4 Entrance lobbies shall have at least the minimum dimensions set out in the Table
below:
Conditions within lobbies

Internal
width

Internal
length*

Single door opening into the lobby, the access

line being at right angles to the outward opening 1500mm 2000mm
exit door (Figure 21A)
Single door opening into the lobby on the same
line as the outward opening exit door (Figure
21B)

1500mm 1800mm

Two single doors opening into the lobby on the

same access line (Figure 21C)

1500mm 2400mm

One pair of double doors opening into the lobby

one the same line of access as an outward
double leaf opening exit pair (Figure 21D)

1800mm 2000mm

Two pairs of double swing double doors both

opening into the lobby and on the same line of
access (Figure 21E)

1800mm 2400mm

* Between door faces

6.3 THRESHOLDS
6.3.1 The tolerated change in level at thresholds is 6mm. (See Figure 22).
6.3.2 Where provided, firm, flush mounted mats are preferable to mats which may be
inadequately anchored and
interfere with wheelchair traffic. (Figure 23).

7.0 INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT OF BUILDINGS

7.1 BUILDING SURFACE FINISHES

Protection against slipping
7.1.1 All building flooring surfaces, pavements and roads upon which pedestrians are likely
to come into contact with shall be designed, specified and constructed so as to reduce the
risk of slipping.
7.1.2 Polished floors are only acceptable in areas where water or materials giving a similar
effect are not likely to be spilled or splashed.
7.1.3 Polished floors are not acceptable for external areas, bathrooms, toilets, indoor pool
areas, industrial plants and other spaces where water or other similar materials are likely to
give rise to danger.

Protection against falling

7.1.4 All floors, ramps and stairways in or associated with buildings are to be designed,
specified and constructed to protect pedestrians from significant drops in level.
7.1.5 All windows shall be designed to protect against users, particularly visually impaired
persons, falling through an opened window.

Floors
7.1.6 All flooring surfaces are to be firm, regular, functional and provide an indication of
significant hazards or changes in levels.
7.1.7 Floor surfaces should be flush at intersections with particular attention paid to the
installation of grates and mats.
7.1.8 The use of deep pile, open texture, soft mats or unsecured carpets that impede
wheelchair movement are to be avoided.

Walls
7.1.9 Features on walls and floors should be recessed wherever possible.
7.1.10 Sharp angles or junctions in finishes should be avoided.
7.1.11 Where wall finishes are accessible to touch, rough textures should be avoided.

Work surfaces
7.1.12 Sharp edges on work surfaces should be avoided. Due consideration should be taken
to provide for persons
with restricted reach.

7.2 INTERNAL LOBBIES

7.2.1 Internal lobbies should cater for similar requirements as entrance lobbies.
7.2.2 Internal lobbies shall have at least the minimum dimensions set out in the Table
below:
Conditions within lobbies Internal Internal width length
Single door ope+ning into the lobby on the same line as the outward opening exit door
1200mm* 2000mm or 1500mm** 1700mm
Single door opening into the lobby on the same line as the inward opening exit door
1200mm* 2400mm or 1500mm** 2100mm
Single door opening into the lobby, the access line being at right angles to the outward
opening exit door. 1200mm 2000mm
One pair of double doors opening into the lobby one the same line of access as an outward
double leaf opening exit pair 1800mm 2000m
Two pairs of double swing double doors both opening into the lobby and on the same line of
access 1800mm
2400m
* A 600mm minimum unobstructed space should be provided next to the leading edge of
the door.
** A 300mm minimum unobstructed space should be provided next to the leading edge of
both doors.

7.3 INTERNAL DOORS

Door openings
7.3.1 Doors should have ironmongery that is suitable for use by persons with disability.
7.3.2 Any door fitted with a self-closing device should be suitable for operation by a person
with disability.
7.3.3 The door and its opening should contain a leaf which provides a minimum clear
opening width of not less than 850mm.
7.3.4 The door and its opening should permit an unobstructed space on the side next to the
leading edge of the door of at least 300mm unless the door is controlled by a suitable
automatic control.
7.3.5 Each door across an accessible corridor or passageway should be provided with a
glazed panel giving a zone of visibility from a height of 900mm to 1500mm from the
finished floor level.

Ironmongery
7.3.6 Door handles or door pulls should be located at a height of 1000mm from the finished
floor level. Ironmongery
should conform to the styles and dimensions shown in Figure 20.
7.3.7 Handles are to be of the lever type.
7.3.8 Where a lever door handle is used it should have a diameter of at least 20mm.
7.3.9 Where a pull handle is used it should have a maximum diameter of 35mm.
7.3.10 Both a lever and pull door handle should have a clear distance to the door face of
45mm.

Glazed doors
7.3.11 Where full glazed doors are installed, a minimum 300mm high kick plate should be
provided to protect the bottom of the door.

7.4 CORRIDORS AND PASSAGEWAYS

7.4.1 Corridors and passageways shall have a clear width of at least 1100mm for corridors
of length up to 15m and a minimum width of 1500mm for lengths over 15 m (see Figure
25).
7.4.2 Corridors must have sufficient space at corners to accommodate the turning
movement of a wheelchair as set out in Figures 25 to 28.

7.5 PASSENGER LIFTS

7.5.1 Passenger lifts shall be designed to cater for persons using wheelchairs. (See Figure
29).
7.5.2 Persons with disability should be able to summon and control the lift as well as reach
any emergency communications device.
7.5.3 All lifts serving more than two floors shall have an auditory and visual signal to
indicate the floor level
the lift has reached.
7.5.4 Measures should be adopted to ensure that no one, particularly persons with disability
will come in contact with the closing doors of the lift.
7.5.5 Access by a suitable lift shall be provided to serve any storey above or below the
principle entrance storey, if that storey contains function or use that falls within the uses as
defined from time to time by the competent authorities.
7.5.6 A suitable means of access from the lift to the remainder of the storey shall be
provided in all cases.
7.5.7 A passenger lift meeting the requirements of Access for All shall have:
i) a clear landing at least 1500mm wide and at least 1500mm deep in front of the lift doors.
ii) a door or doors with a clear opening width of at least 900mm.
iii) a car whose width is at least 1100mm and whose depth is at least 1400mm. (See Figure
29).
iv) a landing and car controls which are between 900mm and 1200mm above the landing
and the car floor, and at least 400mm from the front wall of the car.

v) a suitable tactile indication on the landing and adjacent to the lift call button to identify
the relevant storey.

7.5.8 Lifts shall incorporate a drop down seat, designed to support a load of not less than
130 kg.
7.5.9 Lifts shall incorporate a suitable tactile indication on, or adjacent to, the lift buttons
within the car to confirm the floor selected.
7.5.10 The distance between lifts and the extremity of the floor it serves shall be no greater
than forty metres.
7.5.11 Lifts shall incorporate a signalling system that gives 5 seconds notification that the
lift is answering a call, and a dwell time of 5 seconds before its doors begin to close after
they are fully open. The system may be overridden by a door reactivating device which
relies on photo-electric or infra red sensor, but not a pressure sensitive device, provided
that the minimum time for a lift door to remain fully open is 5 seconds.

Wheelchair stairlifts
7.5.12 Where it may be impractical to provide a passenger lift, a wheelchair stairs lift may
constitute a reasonable alternative.

Platform lifts

7.5.13 The provision of a ramp within a building to effect a change of level within a storey
may be impractical for planning reasons. Under these circumstances it is reasonable to
install a platform lift.
7.5.14 Where a platform lift is installed, a stair access shall be provided to complement the
platform lift, such that:
a) the stairs shall be designed to satisfy the needs of ambulant persons with different
needs, and,
b) the stairs shall be designed to satisfy the needs of people with impaired vision.
7.5.15 The minimum dimensio ns of a platform lift are 850mm by 1200mm.

7.6 SANITARY FACILITIES

7.6.1 Sanitary accommodation should be readily available for persons with disability.
7.6.2 Travel distances to accessible sanitary accommodation from any point in the building
is to be no greater than 40m.
7.6.3 A wheelchair user should not have to travel more than one storey to have access to
sanitary accommodation.
7.6.4 Sanitary accommodation for wheelchair users may be provided in unisex or integral
basis. Unisex provision should be made separately from any provision made for male and
female sanitary accommodation. Preferably, integral provision should be made within the
male and female areas of sanitary accommodation.
7.6.5 Sanitary accommodation for both unisex and integral facilities must conform to the
standard as indicated below. The facilities should:
i) permit manoeuvrability of a wheelchair.
ii) permit frontal, lateral, diagonal and backward transfer onto the WC with the provision for
hand washing and drying within reach from the WC prior to transfer back to the wheelchair.
iii) have space for a helper to assist in the transfer.
7.6.6 Consideration should be given to the need for different characteristics of sanitary
provision to be made for those who work in a building and those who visit.
7.6.7 If a building contains more than one WC compartment for wheelchair users, the
opportunity should be taken to provide both left-and right-handed transfer layouts.

Staff facilities
7.6.8 Provision of sanitary accommodation for staff may be within integral or unisex
compartments.
7.6.9 Access for different sexes should be, at least, on alternate floors if unisex toilets are
not provided.
7.6.10 Cumulative horizontal travel distance should be no more than forty metres from any
point in the building to sanitary accommodation accessible to persons with disability.
7.6.11 In a building that has stair access only, sanitary accommodation should be located in
the principal access
storey unless that storey contains only the principal entrance and vertical circulation areas.
7.6.12 If a building contains more than one WC compartment for wheelchair users, the
opportunity should be taken to provide both left-and right-handed transfer layouts.

7.7 SANITARY ACCOMMODATION

7.7.1 To be suitable for wheelchair users WC compartments shall have as a minimum, the
dimensions, equipment and fittings as set out in Figures 30 and 31.
7.7.2 The WC compartment should have minimum internal dimensions of 2000mm by
1500mm.
7.7.3 The WC compartment should have a 850mm single leaf outward opening door set
lockable from the inside fitted with a lever handle and horizontal pull rail.
7.7.4 The WC compartment should have a WC installed as follows: the front to be 750mm
from the wall behind it, the top of the WC 450mm from the finished floor, and the centre
line to be no closer to the side wall than 450mm.
7.7.5 The WC compartment should have a wash hand basin, the top to be 750mm from the
finished floor, and fitted with lever handles.
7.7.6 The WC compartment should have 35mm diameter horizontal support rails that shall
be positioned at

no more than 500mm from the centre line of the WC, on both sides of the WC, at least, one
being a hinged support rail to permit access and support.
7.7.7 The height of the support rails in the WC compartment is to be 250mm above the
height of the WC seat.

F lever flush (to transfer side)

P paper towel dispenser
T toilet paper dispenser
M mirror
H hand drier (electric)
A alarm cord (distinguish from light pull)
C coat hooks (1200-1400mm high)
W sealed container for incontinence pads and other disposables

1 Fixed vertical rail

2 drop-down rail (easy to use from seated position)
3 fixed horizontal rail behind WC

4 fixed horizontal rail

5 horizontal door pull (to enable door to be closed when entering)
7.7.8 The WC compartment should have a 35mm minimum diameter 600mm long vertical
support rail is to be fixed on the free side of the WC, 800mm from the floor, and a second is
to be fixed at the same height and immediately to the side of the wash hand basin.

Toilet fittings
7.7.9 Hand basin, toilet paper holder, rails and other fittings should be located close to the
toilet bowl at the heights included in Figure 31. A hot air hand drier is preferred to a towel.
7.7.10 Shallow basins are preferred and should not project into circulation space.
7.7.11 Adequate knee-room should be allowed beneath the basin to enable a wheelchair
user to reach the taps. Pedestal basins should not be used.
7.7.12 Hot water and other pipes should be lagged or boxed beneath basins in order to
protect those with paralysed limbs.
7.7.13 Lever taps are required for the purposes of controlling both flow and temperature.

Shower compartments

7.7.14 Reasonable provision is to be made in recreational facilities for the provision of

suitable areas and facilities for persons with disability.
7.7.15 Shower compartments shall be dimensioned and provided with the facilities as shown
in Figure 32 and as set out below:
i) Minimum internal width 1000mm and minimum internal length 900mm.
ii) Horizontal grab rail 700mm from the floor.
iii) Vertical grab rail from 900mm to 1400mm from the floor
iv) Centrally located controls at 900mm from the floor.
v) The showerhead variable between 1200mm and 2200mm from the floor.

Dressing cubicles
7.7.16 Dressing cubicles shall be dimensioned and provided with the facilities set out below:
i) Internal width 1800mm and internal length 1400mm.
ii) Horizontal grab rail 700mm from the floor at the side of the seat.
iii) A mirror from 550mm to 1450mm above floor level.
iv) A zone for switches etc. at between 900mm and 1200mm above floor level.
v) A minimum unobstructed internal height of 2200mm.

7.8 LIGHTING
7.8.1 Lighting shall be appropriate and adequate for the uses to which it is employed.
Wherever communication is going to take place lighting levels should be adequate to allow
lip reading.

Natural lighting
7.8.2
7.8.3
7.8.4
7.8.5
level.

Windows should be located and detailed to minimise glare.

Large glazed areas should incorporate a design feature to identify the window.
Handles and locks should be easy to use in a single action and readily distinguishable.
Controls should be located in a zone between 900mm and 1200mm from finished floor
(See Figure 33).

7.8.6 Where applicable sills should be no higher than 800mm above finished floor level in
order to permit wheelchair users to see on the other side. In all cases due regard to safety
provisions should be observed.

Artificial lighting
7.8.7 Light fittings and luminaires should be selected and fixed in places to avoid glare.
7.8.8 Artificial lighting should be employed to balance natural lighting where there is
excessive contrast.

Controls
7.8.9 Switches and controls should be accessible and easy to operate for those with
different needs.
7.8.10 Remote controls should be provided where those with limited mobility may have
difficulty operating switches.
7.8.11 Controls should be readily identifiable by devices such as c olour coding.
7.8.12 Switches should be positioned approximately 1000mm above finished floor level.
(See Figure 34).

7.9 COUNTERS AND CHECKOUTS

7.9.1 Provision should be made for persons with different needs to be able to have easy
access to and use of counters.
7.9.2 Counter heights should be located between 600mm and 800mm above finished floor
level.
7.9.3 At least one checkout must be provided with a minimum, clear unobstructed width of
850mm.
7.9.4 Where appropriate a support rail should be provided.
7.9.5 Sufficient space should be allowed beyond a checkout for filling shopping bags.

7.9.6 Where turnstiles are installed, provision shall be made for a bypass gate with a
minimum clear opening of 850mm for the use of those in wheelchairs or the ambulant
disabled.
7.9.7 At automatic gates a similar provision as above shall be made.

7.10 SEATING AND TABLES

Seating
7.10.1 Provision should be provided for persons with different needs to rest and wait in
comfort.
7.10.2 An optimum height for seating is 450mm above finished floor level with arm rests at
700mm. Where possible, a range of seating heights should be provided.
7.10.3 One out of every twelve seats provided should be perch seating, with the seat
projecting 300mm at a height of 600mm to 800mm above finished floor level.

Tables and worktops

7.10.4 Tables with moveable seats located near to an entrance with sufficient space for
manoeuvrability are
preferable to tables with permanent seats.
7.10.5 Table dimensions for wheelchairs users are a height of between 750mm to 800mm, a
depth of 550mm and a
width of 800mm.
7.10.6 There should be unobstructed space below tables, desks, workbenches and other
work surfaces to allow wheelchair users full reach.

8.0 COMMUNICATION

8.1 SIGNS
8.1.1 The location of signs should be part of the process of planning the building. They
should be placed in a logical position and be obviously identifiable.
8.1.2 Signs should be situated so that they do not cause obstruction and should be well lit.
8.1.3 Symbols should be used to supplement written signs. Figure 36 indicates typical
symbols that should be
used.
8.1.4 The international symbol of access (See Figure 36) must be adopted within all signs
depicting this pictogram. The wheelchair figure must always face towards the right unless
used in a directional sign indicating to the left.
The outer dimensions of the square should be 65mm square for indoor applications with a
visibility requirement of up to 9m. The outer dimensions should be 115mm square for
indoor applications with visibility requirements greater than 9m and outdoors applications
up to 18m. For applications where the visibility requirements exceed 18m, the outer
dimensions should be 200mm square.

8.1.5 The signboard must contrast with the background against which it is seen, and the
lettering should contrast with the signboard. Yellow lettering and symbols on a black
background should be used where the background to the sign is light. Black lettering and
symbols on a yellow background should be used where the background to the sign is dark.
8.1.6 Lettering styles should be straightforward.
8.1.7 The finish of all signboards should be of the non-glare type.
8.1.8 Tactile signs (such as embossed letters, raised pictograms and direction arrows should
be used where
they can be easily reached.(e.g. lift controls, door numbers, lockers and WC doors).
8.1.9 Colour can be used to signal where certain features can be found within a building. For
example, all walls within core areas containing stairs, lifts and WCs should be painted a
particular colour to aid orientation.
8.1.10 Visual information should be provided by distinguishing floor, wall, and ceiling
planes, door surrounds and decorative features.
8.1.11 Audio guides should be considered.
8.1.12 The character proportions of signs should be within the range of 3:5 to 1:1. The
height of overheard symbols should be a minimum of 75mm.

8.2 OTHER AIDS TO COMMUNICATIONS

8.2.1 In order to have full benefit of attending a public performance or playing a proper part
in discussions, a
person with impaired hearing may need to receive a signal some 20db higher than that
received by a person with normal hearing. Whichever system is selected it should be
capable of suppressing reverberation and audience and other environmental noise and
provide sound without loss or distortion through bad acoustics or extraneous noise.
8.2.2 Aids to communications for the benefit of those with hearing aids are to be provided
at:
i) Booking and ticket offices and the like where the customer is separated from the vendor
by a glazed screen.
ii) In large reception rooms, auditoria, and meeting rooms in excess of l00 m2 in area.

9.0 MISCELLANEOUS BUILDING TYPES REQUIREMENTS

9.1 RESTAURANTS AND BARS

9.1.1 Access shall be available to the full range of services offered.
9.1.2 Access shall be provided to all bars, self-service counters and waiter serviced areas,
and at least to half the area where seating is provided.
9.1.3
Where there are changes in floor level, reasonable provision for access should be made by
keeping them to a reasonable scale and permitting access for the ambulant disabled, and at
least half of the facility available to wheelchair users.

9.2 FACILITIES PROVIDING ACCOMMODATION FOR THE PUBLIC

(e.g. hotel bedrooms, etc.)
9.2.1 In hotels and guest houses the following provisions shall be made in respect of
bedrooms:
i) One guest bedroom out of every twenty guest bedrooms (or part thereof) shall be
suitable, in terms of dimensions and layout, for use by a person in a wheelchair.
ii) The entrance door to each guest bedroom shall comply to Access for All standards as
described in this
document.
iii) The entrance door to any other guest bedroom shall have a clear opening width of at
least 850mm but with the option to dispense with the 300mm space at the side of the door.
9.2.2 Sanitary accommodation in guest bedrooms that are suitable for use by a person in a
wheelchair shall be en suite if that is the arrangement for the remainder of the bedrooms.

9.3 ASSEMBLY FACILITIES (e.g. auditoria, theatres, stadia, etc.)

Audience or spectator seating
9.3.1 Of the total of fixed audience or spectator seats available, the number of spaces
suitable for wheelchair users (See Figure 36) shall be no less than that shown in the table
below.
Audience seating capacity

Number of seats suitable for

wheelchair users

less than 25

26-250

251-500

501 and over

4+

1 per every additional 250 or part

thereof
9.3.2 A 'wheelchair space' should be provided with a clear view of the event.
9.3.3 Wheelchair spaces should be designed and located in such a way that their occupants
may sit adjacent to companions with or without disability.
9.3.4 The stage as well as all other facilities such as dressing rooms should be accessible to
persons with
disability.

REFERENCES
Access Audits,
Centre for Accessible Environments,
London (1999).
Access for All,
Ohio's Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped, Ohio, (1977).
Accessibility For All,
Works Division,
Government of Malta, (unpublished).
Americans with Disabilities Act
Access Guide: Survey Check list,
Department of Rehabilitation, California, (1996).
Designing for the Disabled,
Selwyn Goldsmith, Royal Instate of British
Architects, England (1994).
European Manual for an Accessible Built Environment,
Central Co-ordinating Committee for the Promotion of Accessibility, Netherlands (CCPT)
(1990).
Ligi Opportunitajiet Indaqs (Persuni b'Dizabilita),
Gvern ta' Malta, (2000).

IMPORTANT
Most of the dimensions which appear in these guidelines should be regarded as MINIMUM
requirements.
Therefore, where circumstances permit, more generous dimensions should be used.