Access Audit Checklist Feb 2000

ACCESS AUDIT CHECKLIST
Access for disabled people

in healthcare premises
NHS in Scotland, P&EFE, February 2000
Contents
Introduction
Page 4
A:
External Approach
1
External Approach
2
External Change in Level: Ramp
3
External Change in Level: Steps
Page 11
B:
Entrance and Reception

4
Entrance
5
Reception
Page 32
C:
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation

6
Corridor
7
Internal Ramp
8
Internal Staircase
9
Lift
10 Platform Stairclimber Lift
11 Vertical Platform Lift
Page 43
D:
Internal Spaces
12 Internal Door
13 Internal Space
14 Wards and Treatment Areas
15 Catering and Refreshment Areas
Page 73
E:
Sanitary Facilities
16 Accessible WC - Ambulant
17 Accessible WC - Standard Layout
18 Accessible WC - Peninsular Layout
19 Changing Facilities - Cubicle
20 Accessible Shower
21 Accessible Bathroom
Page 89
F:
Signage and Information

22 Signage
Page 127
G:
Evacuation and Management

23 Means of Escape
Page 131
H:
Customer Care
24 Customer Care
Page 135
I:
Implementation
25 Implementation Considerations
Page 138
NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form
February 2000
Page 2
J:
Appendices
A
Access Action Summary Sheets
B
Points Scoring System
C
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA)
D
References
E
Advisory Organisations
Page 141
Acknowledgements
The National Health Service in Scotland Property and Environment Forum thanks Norman Raitt Architects
for their contribution to the revision and production of this publication.
February 2000
Page 3
NHS IN SCOTLAND
Property and Environment Forum
Access Audit Checklist
Access for disabled people in healthcare premises

Background
This Access Audit Checklist, produced by the NHSiS Property and Environment Forum
Executive on behalf of the Scottish Executive, is a version of a checklist originally developed
by the NHS Executive in England to enable all health service providers to audit the
accessibility of their premises. It provides a consistent baseline standard which aims to
improve the quality of access for disabled people.
NHS MEL (1998) 80 gave advance notification of the preparation of the audit tool and of
the steps NHSiS providers need to take to ensure that they meet the requirements of
Section 21 of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. The audit tool should be used in
conjunction with Good Practice Guide Equality for disabled people in the NHS in Scotland
Access to services issued by the Scottish Executive Health Department.
Distribution
General Managers, Health Boards
Chief Executives of NHS Trusts
Using the Access Audit Checklist

The Access Audit Checklist uses the concept of Inclusive Design, which endeavours to
ensure that the built environment is not disabling to those who use it. Users will include
people with physical, sensory and cognitive impairments which may be progressive,
intermittent or permanent. In the NHSiS, it will also include people who may be
temporarily disabled. An accessible environment benefits everyone, including people who
use wheelchairs, older people and families, particularly those with young children.
The Checklist is designed to be used across all healthcare buildings, from GP surgeries to
major hospitals. This will be particularly relevant when providers are considering action
they need to take to comply with the requirements of Section 21 of the DDA.
The aim of the Checklist is to help providers assess whether it is impossible or
unreasonably difficult for the public to access services and to identify areas where
remedial action is required. Annex C contains a brief outline of the DDA. It can also be
used as a tool for ensuring that new buildings and refurbishments are fully accessible.
February 2000
Page 4
The Checklist covers access to areas of healthcare premises where disabled people are
likely to go as a patient, visitor or employee. For example, arriving at the site, calling at
reception areas, refreshment areas, clinics, consulting areas, wards and administrative
areas.
The Checklist provides a benchmark to highlight areas which need to be addressed.
These should then be prioritised and incorporated into an Access Action Plan which
should be part of a management strategy for improving access to services for disabled
people. These might either be integrated with other work programmes or be single
projects.
Standard
The Checklist takes as its basis Parts E, M and S of the Technical Standards for
compliance with the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990 as amended (19931999) (Facilities for Disabled People and Means of Escape). Parts E, M and S specify
approved access standards applying to new or substantially reconstructed buildings and
extensions. Many buildings do not meet these standards. In testing the access audit tool
in a variety of healthcare settings in England, NHS Estates showed that 75% of toilet
facilities did not meet the requirements of Part M of the English Building Regulations.
Healthcare facilities in Scotland are likely to demonstrate a similar level of compliance with
Part M of the Scottish Building Standards.
Parts E, M and S are statutory and require minimum access standards, but do not address
all the elements required for an inclusive environment. This Checklist covers additional
elements considered to be good practice over and above Parts E, M and S.
There is no obligation to adopt the deemed to satisfy specifications of Parts E, M and S if
the access requirements are equally well met in some other approved way. However, in
the absence of other approved standards and for consistency of auditing, Parts E, M and
S standards are taken as the baseline in this Checklist.
Many newer adapted or refurbished healthcare premises will incorporate the access
recommendations in Health Building Note 40 - Common Activity Spaces available from
The Stationery Office. Health Building Note 40 expands on the recommendations of Parts
E, M and S and applies more specifically to access design in healthcare premises, but is
not mandatory.
Diagrams illustrating the requirements of Parts E, M and S and Health Building Note 40
are included in the Checklist for reference.
When auditing healthcare premises, both Parts E, M and S and Health Building Note 40
layouts may be encountered. As a general guide, Parts E, M and S are the regulatory
baseline standard and will apply more to the public reception and outpatients areas where
independent access is anticipated. Health Building Note 40 will extend to the clinical and
medical areas where assisted as well as independent access is anticipated and where
there is a higher degree of dependency.
February 2000
Page 5
Audit Strategy
The audit should follow a logical sequential journey following how people arrive at, enter,
move around, use and leave the buildings(s) starting from the site perimeter and
progressing through car parking areas, pedestrian routes, building entrances, reception
areas, information, delivery, horizontal and vertical circulation routes, internal spaces,
facilities and exits.
Every building varies and auditing a small GP practice in a suburban setting will be
substantially different to auditing a major NHSiS Trust Hospital with different buildings on
several sites.
It is desirable to obtain floor plans of the building for ease of reference and identification of
the areas being surveyed.
The Checklist should preferably be carried out by a suitably competent survey team
familiar with access and disability issues and with Parts E, M and S of the Building
Standards (Scotland) Regulations. Suitably qualified professional access consultants can
be sourced through the organisations listed at Appendix E. Advice can also be obtained
from the NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Executive.
It is advisable to consult with the Local Authority Access Officer and local Access Group or
Disability Organisation. This is valuable in highlighting access consideration from the user
perspective and for ensuring a comprehensive approach to their concerns.
February 2000
Page 6
Using the Checklist

1.
The details form on the front page of the Checklist should be completed in every
case, in particular the date of the survey.
2.
Depending on the nature and function of the building, not all sections of the
Checklist will apply and those sections which do not can therefore be omitted.
3.
Some buildings will contain more than one of the same element, for example more
than one lift. A separate duplicated section of the Checklist should be used for
each.
4.
Where there are large numbers of recurring elements such as doors, a matrix form
is provided for ease of auditing. Matrix forms are only provided for those sections
likely to have a large number or recurring elements. It is only necessary to record
those elements which do not comply with access standards.
5.
All questions on the Checklist should be completed where relevant with a tick in the
Yes, No or Not Applicable boxes. Not Applicable signifies that the element
referred to in the question either does not exist or is irrelevant. One of the three
boxes should always be ticked. Space is available for additional comments
adjacent to each question.
6.
Questions which relate directly to Parts E, M and S of the Building Standards

(Scotland) Regulations are in bold text and the tick boxes in the Parts E, M and S
column are shaded.
7.
Relevant diagrams illustrating the requirements of Parts E, M and S of the Building

Standards (Scotland) Regulations and from Health Building Note 40 are included at
the end of each section for reference and for checking setting-out dimensions
where necessary.
8.
On completion of the Checklist, a summary sheet should be drawn up to form the

basis of an Access Action Plan, listing and prioritising the remedial action to be
taken for each section. Access action summary sheets are included at Appendix A.
Many small access improvements can be carried out relatively easily, at little or no
cost.
9.
There is an optional scoring system which can be used to indicate access priorities
within a building or across a range of buildings within the same management. The
points scoring system is described at Appendix B.
February 2000
Page 7
Implementation
The access audit tool is not an end in itself. The results should be used as a basis for
identifying and prioritising access improvements over a rolling programme, many of which
can be included within routine maintenance and refurbishment works as part of the overall
development plan for healthcare premises.
A time-tabled strategy of progressive access improvements should be developed ending
in 2004 when implementation of the physical access requirements of Section 21 of the
DDA comes into force.
Opportunities for improving access provision occur through:
New Build Projects;
Refurbishment Projects;
Maintenance Works;
Other Projects such as Fire Safety or Health and Safety Improvements;
Simple Improvements such as the provision or renewal of equipment and fittings.
The findings from the Checklist may look daunting but much can be achieved through
small access improvements when budgets and resources are too limited to fund major
access alterations. These might include selecting suitable colour contrasts when
redecorating to help people with visual impairments identify a doorway or make quieter
areas available for hearing impaired people.
It is important that the Access Audit Checklist is the responsibility of a designated
Manager who also has responsibility for disability issues in the Trust, and that procedures
are in place so that when any work takes place, the Designers, Project Teams and
Contractors are fully aware of the Checklist and that access needs are fully understood.
Providers should consider nominating a person or gatekeeper within premises specifically
responsible for coordinating and monitoring access issues.
In the case of leased premises there should also be a nominated person acting on behalf
of the Landlord and any access improvements should be agreed with the Landlord prior to
commencement.
The local authority Access Officer and Building Control Inspector should be consulted
where appropriate to ensure that the works comply at least with Parts E, M and S of the
Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations.
If the premises are listed or of special architectural merit, consent will be required to carry
out any alterations. Access to the Built Heritage published by Historic Scotland gives
appropriate guidance.
Prior to commencement of the works, all contract documentation should be check by a
suitably competent person to ensure access compliance. Spot checks and review of
access requirements should also be carried out during the progress of the works to ensure
there is no deviation from the specification.
Prior to handover of the works, all access elements should again be checked by a suitably
competent person to ensure compliance.
February 2000
Page 8
Following handover, the relevant parts of the premises should be re-audited using the
Checklist. If the premises have already been scored using the points system, a new score
should be calculated. This will permit monitoring of progressive access improvements over
time.
This Checklist has been based on an NHS Executive publication entitled Access to
Health Services Premises: Audit Checklist which was in turn developed from Access
Audits - A guide for appraising the accessibility of buildings for disabled users published
by the Centre for Accessible Environments and from other documents acknowledged at
Appendix C.
It is recommended that this Checklist is read in conjunction with Designing for
Accessibility available from the Centre for Accessible Environments, SHFN 14 Disability
Access and SHFN 20 Access Audits for Primary Healthcare Facilities both available
from the Property and Environment Forum Executive.
The diagrams indicated in the Checklist are from the following documents which are
copyright.
Technical Standards for compliance with the Building Standards (Scotland)

Regulations 1990 (fifth amendment);
NHS Estates. Health Building Note 40 - Common Activity Spaces (5 Volumes). (Note:
Volume 5 is the Scottish Appendix.)
This Checklist is for use within the NHS in Scotland and is not for sale or publication.
February 2000
Page 9
NHS IN SCOTLAND PROPERTY AND ENVIRONMENT FORUM

ACCESS AUDIT CHECKLIST
Date of Survey
Name of Health Authority
Name and Address of Healthcare

provider
Name of Building
Address of Building
Type of Building
(Hospital, Clinic, GP Practice)
Name and telephone number of Surveyor
Name, job title and telephone number of

Site Contact Person
Details of Departments floor by floor
NHSiS Drawings Reference
Reference Number (for Database)
February 2000
Page 10
A: External Approach
Approaches from the site perimeter
to the entrance of the building,
external spaces, car parking, set down areas,
ramps and steps
February 2000
Page 11
EXTERNAL APPROACH
Relevant diagrams are attached at the end of this section

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
1.01 Is the building within convenient walking distance of:
(a) a public highway?
(b) public transport?
(c) car parking facilities?
1.02 Have suitable dropped kerbs been provided where appropriate?
See diagram.
1.03 Is the approach surface relatively even?
Surfaces should permit manoeuvre by wheelchair users and people
with walking difficulties
1.04 Is the approach surface slip-resistant?
1.05 Is the approach route reasonably level or ramped suitable for
disabled people? If steeper than 1:20, route should be classified as
a ramp. See Section 2.
1.06 If the approach route is steeper than 1 in 12, is there alternative
provision to enable access by disabled people?
ACTUAL POINTS
MAXIMUM POSSIBLE POINTS
February 2000
Page 12
BROUGHT FORWARD FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
1.07 Is the approach route at least 1200mm wide?
1800mm recommended for passing in two directions.
1.08 Is the route free of hazards such as traffic signs, bollards, litter bins,
and building features such as outward opening doors, windows or
overhangs?
1.09 Is the route adequately and evenly lit?
1.10 Is the route clearly identified by visual, aural and tactile information?
1.11 Is the route safely and clearly separated from traffic flow?
1.12 Is the route to the building properly maintained and kept clear in all
weathers?
1.13 Is accessible parking provided for disabled people?
1.14 Are sufficient dedicated accessible parking spaces provided?
At least 1 in 20 or part thereof of parking provision should be
accessible to wheelchair users.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 13
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
1.15 Is accessible parking clearly marked out and signposted, with
bays at least 2400mm wide x 4800mm long plus a 1000mm
side transfer zone? See diagram.
1.16 Are some bays available with a clear transfer space of at least
2400mm to one side for disabled people using vans with side hoists?
Additional space is sometimes needed to use a side hoist and
manoeuvre a wheelchair on and off it.
1.17 Are some bays available with more than 2400mm headroom for
disabled people using vans with side hoists?
1.18 Is accessible parking suitably surfaced and level?
1.19 Is accessible parking within 45m of principal building entrances?
1.20 Is some accessible car parking available under cover?
1.21 Is accessible parking well lit, visible and safe?
1.22 Are clearly signed procedures or penalties in place to discourage
abuse of accessible parking bays by non-disabled people?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 14
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
1.23 Are alternative parking arrangements available to wheelchair users
if all accessible spaces are occupied?
1.24 If there is an automatic barrier entry system to the car park, is this
accessible to disabled people including deaf and hard of hearing
people who do not speak?
1.25 If there are ticket machines or meters for parking, are these
appropriately located with controls and coin slots within a height
range of 900mm 1200mm and clearly identifiable?
1.26 Are suitable, safe set-down and pick-up points provided for taxis,
community transport vehicles, cars and minibuses close to principal
building entrances?
1.27 Are suitable, safe set-down and pick-up points provided for
ambulances?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 15
HBN 40
DIAG. 1
1000
wall, pavement/path boundary
2000
(see note 10)
gradient
1:12 max
(see note 7)
3000
(see note 10)
wall, pavement/path boundary

gradient
1:12 max
(see note 7)
surface
(see note 11)
dropped kerb and road surface to merge here

(see note 13)
2000
2000
2000
flush width (see note 9)
kerb height can vary 13 - 170mm

absolute max 200mm
2000
flush width (see note 9)
2000
2000
2000
roadway should be marked with a yellow (or

white) line to indicate that the area is to be
kept clear of stationary vehicles
(see note 12)
Controlled Crossings/ Dropped Kerbs

Notes:
All sizes in mm
a. See notes on next page.
1350 (1300)
Preferred minimum: (Restricted minimum,
not recommended for general use.)
Drawing not to scale
NORMAN RAITT ARCHITECTS
February 2000
Page 16
Controlled Crossings/Dropped Kerbs

(Notes to ergonomic data sheets)
General considerations
1. Reference should be made to Part S of the Technical Standards for compliance with the Building
Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990; also the Department of Transport Mobility Units advice note
DU/1/91 (The use of Dropped Kerbs and Tactile Surfaces at Pedestrian Crossing Points).
2. The design of dropped kerbs must take into account the different and conflicting needs of visually
impaired people and wheelchair users. Dropped kerbs make it much easier for wheelchair users, and
people with pushchairs, trolleys etc, to overcome abrupt changes in level which they would otherwise find
difficult or impossible (for some wheelchair users, even a small jolt can cause acute pain).
3. Visually impaired people, however, require some physical indication of the edge of a pavement; in order
to avoid walking unaware on to the road, kerbs are used by them to indicate the presence of a road. If kerbs
are removed to aid people with mobility difficulties, a substitute indicator of the roads presence must be
provided that is if the pavement is level with the road, there should be a change in texture (distinguishable
through the soles of shoes, and by the canes used by visually impaired people) provided as a warning
indicator; adequate drainage must also be provided.
Location
4. Dropped kerbs must:
be provided at locations where people leave the pavement to cross the road, at which points there must
be an unobstructed view of traffic approaching from any direction;
always be directly opposite one another across a road. It is dangerous to have one on only one side of
the road, as a person may be unable to mount the opposite kerb and then be stranded in the flow of
traffic;
be provided at any vertical rise greater than 13mm.
5. Dropped kerbs should be avoided at places where doors occur. Doors should not have to be opened at
the same time as negotiating a kerb ramp, as this is extremely difficult for wheelchair users and people with
pushchairs a wheelchair user, after mounting the kerb ramp, will be tilted backwards, and is therefore
unlikely to be able to reach the door handle, whereas people with pushchairs will not be able to reach the
handle without walking around the pushchair, and will then need to pull the pushchair through the door.
Gradient
6. The gradient of the dropped kerbs must allow people to negotiate them easily and quickly move out of
the flow of traffic. Steep dropped kerbs may cause people to lose control of wheelchairs and pushchairs.
7. The gentler the slope, the more people will be able to use it with ease and safety. The pavement must
be dished over the area of the dropped kerb, with no abrupt change of slope and a maximum gradient of
1:12.
8. Dropped kerbs with returned sides are only acceptable where they do not interfere with the main direction
of pedestrian flow and where people are not required to walk across them.
Width
9. Dropped kerbs must be wide enough for double pushchairs and electric pavement vehicles to negotiate
them. The flush width should normally be a minimum of 2000mm. (In locations of high flow, the flush width
should be 3000mm.) The minimum width can be reduced to 1200mm adjacent to areas of car parking
reserved for disabled users.
February 2000
Page 17
Depth
10. At a 2000mm wide pavement, dropped kerbs should extend over the entire depth. Where the pavement
is 3000mm wide or greater, a level area 1000mm wide can be provided behind the dropped kerb.
Surface
11. The dropped kerb should have a tactile, modified blister surface covering the dropped kerb area in
accordance with DU1/91, The Use of Dropped Kerbs and Tactile Surfaces at Pedestrian Crossing Points, to
indicate its existence. Textured surfaces help ambulant disabled people to keep a firm grip, as well as
indicating to visually impaired people the change in level.
12. The bottom of a dropped kerb should be rounded, or otherwise distinguishable for example, by a
tactile strip to help visually impaired people locate them. A continuous yellow line should be painted along
the edge of the road closest to the kerb.
13. The following types of dropped kerb should be avoided: those with non-parallel sides; with a camber; on
to roads with a steep camber or concave gutter; projecting into the gutter; sited near drains; or those located
close to loose surfaces such as gravel or earth (as these may get on to the ramp and affect the surface
performance).
14. Where gratings are installed for the purpose of conducting rain water away, these should be located
upstream of the kerb ramp, in order to prevent flooding at the bottom of the ramp. Where gratings occur in
front of kerb ramps, the holes should be small to prevent wheelchair castors and walking aids becoming
stuck; to achieve this, the slots should not be more than 12mm wide, with metal at least 13mm thick, and
aligned at 90o to the direction of travel. All grating surfaces should be set level with the roadway; it is best
that gratings are not located at crossings.
February 2000
Page 18
HBN 40
DIAG. 2
3600
if each bay has an individual access aisle
6000
1200
shared access aisle
100 minimum allowance for

variation in parking positions
4800
4500
average car
(5700 max)
parked
attendant
wheelchair
during transit space
800
600
450
(300)
(see note 2)
1100 (1000)
200
1750
average car
(2000 max)
full door swing

wheelchair users
prefer a 2 door car with
wider doors (i.e. 1100
is required)
clearance of obstruction
2400
standard parking bay (see note 3)
dropped kerb to
footpath
1200
2400
6000
External Approach:
Car Parking (wheelchair access)
Notes:
1350 (1300)
not recommended for general use).
Drawing not to scale.
All sizes in mm
1. Average space length (in line parking)

includes allowance for manoeuvring car into
and out of parking space. Add 1000 to
length and 200-300 to width for large
(American type) car. An end bay against a
wall or obstruction should be increased to
7000 (8000) overall to allow for safe
manoeuvring.
circulation space for fully ambulant users.

3. Standard parking bay width is an
average for multi-bay situations. End bays
against wall or other obstruction should be
increased by 200 (100). Similarly 300-800
depending on level of convenience should
be added to end bay for semi or non
ambulant users.
2. 300 (pref. 450) allows restricted
February 2000
Page 19
EXTERNAL CHANGE IN LEVEL: RAMP

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
2.01 Does the approach route require a permanent ramp? See 1.05.
2.02 If a permanent ramp cannot be constructed (perhaps because the
building is listed) is a secure suitable portable ramp available?
Portable ramps are not recommended unless there is no other option.
2.03 Is there a min. 1200mm long level manoeuvring space at the
top and bottom of the ramp?
2.04 Is the ramp slip resistant?
2.05 Is the surface width of the ramp at least 1200mm wide and the
unobstructed width of the ramp at least 1000mm wide?
Preferred width 1800mm.
2.06 If the ramp gradient is between 1 in 20 and 1 in 15, is the length
of each individual flight 10m or less?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 20
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
The ramp gradient should be between 1 in 20 and 1 in 12. If it is
shallower than 1 in 20 it is considered a level approach. If it is
steeper than 1 in 12 it is too steep to be used by disabled people
and would not comply with Building Regulations. A gradient
shallower than 1:15 1:20 is recommended.
2.08 Are appropriate intermediate landings provided at least 1200mm
long? See diagram.
2.09 Does the open side of the ramp have a raised kerb at least
100mm high?
2.10 Are there suitable continuous handrails each side and also to
landings? See diagram.
2.11 Are the ramp and landing handrails colour contrasted from their
background?
2.12 Is the top of the handrail 900mm above the surface of the ramp
and 840 1000mm above the surface of a landing?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 21
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
2.13 Does the handrail extend at least 300mm beyond the top and
bottom of the ramp?
2.14 Does the handrail terminate in a closed end which does not
project into a route of travel?
2.15 Does the profile and projection of the handrail provide a firm
grip?
2.16 If the ramp gradient is 1:20 or steeper, are there accompanying
steps?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 22
HBN 40
DIAG. 3
possible location
of door
handrails
(see notes 9-14)
handrail
extension
300
handrail
extension
300
1000
1100
610
1000
protected barrier at
bottom of ramp
(see note 20)
steps
(see note 2)
1500 (1200)
landing (see note 21)
ramp: gradient max 1:15,

length max 10000 without
landing (see note 3)
1500 (1200)
landing (see notes 6-8)
1500 (1200)
ramp width (see note 4)
900
circulation recess at bottom
route
of ramp (see note 21)
450
tactile warning
(see note 8)
450
tactile warning
(see note 8)
75
max
75
max
edge protection
(see note 15)
min
100
100
10-15mm
(see note 18)
900
unobstructed height
for ramp (see note 22)
1980
preferred cover for external

ramp (see note 19)
1500
section a-a
edge protection details
External Change in Level: Ramp (general)

Notes:
All sizes in mm
a. See notes on following pages
1350 (1300)
February 2000
Page 23
External Change in Level: Ramp (general)

Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990 for specific legislative requirements.
2. Ramps enable people with wheelchairs and pushchairs to move easily between one level and another,
and should be provided where any changes in level occur. However, for ambulant disabled people, a ramp
is not as convenient, easy or safe to use as steps, and therefore a ramp should always be accompanied by
steps.
Gradient
3. Ramps must be of a gradual gradient, in order that wheelchair users can negotiate them independently
(most can manage a slope of 1:15 or 1:20). The following gradients are recommended:
1:12 for distances up to 5000mm (and for distances up to 5000mm between landings);
1:15 for distances up to 10000mm (and for distances up to 10000mm between landings).
Width
4. The preferred width for a ramp is 1500mm (a minimum width of 1200mm, with an unobstructed width of
1000mm). A width of 1800mm will allow two wheelchair users to pass.
Length
5. The length of a ramp is dependent on the gradient and the change in height to be overcome, but should
never exceed 24000mm, and in any case should not exceed 10000mm without a rest landing.
Approach space and landings
6. Level approach spaces (clear of any door swing or obstruction) should be provided at the top and bottom
of any ramp. Areas measuring 1500mm x 1500mm are preferred (minimum 1200mm x 1200mm), and any
intermediate landings should be not less than 1500mm in length.
o
7. Landings should be provided at any changes in direction of the ramp which are greater than 10 , and at
intervals of 10000mm where appropriate.
8. Tactile cues should be provided, including foot-detectable changes in surface 450mm long across the
landing at both ends of the ramp. Such changes could simply be corduroy or blister tactile surfaces.
Handrails
9. It is important that ramps have handrails, which give vital support, confidence and security to all users by
providing lateral body support and hand support as well as providing tactile cues for visually impaired
people. Handrails may also provide support for independent wheelchair users when resting on the ramp.
10. Handrails are required on both sides of a ramp to assist people with disabilities on their right or left, as
well as those carrying bags in one hand. Handrails should be provided on any ramp with a rise greater than
150mm
11. It is recommended that handrails are provided at two heights a standard one 900mm above the ramp
surface, and a lower one 610mm above the ramp surface for children and wheelchair users.
12. Handrails must be continuous around dog-legs or switchbacks and over landings; where this is not
possible, they should extend horizontally a minimum of 300mm beyond each end of the ramp before being
returned to the wall, floor or post in order to allow users to regain their balance on the level area.
February 2000
Page 24
13. These extensions also indicate the presence of a ramp for visually impaired users, but they should not
project out into the path of other pedestrians.
14. Further detailed guidance is given in the Notes to the handrails ergonomic data sheets later in this
volume.
Edge protection
15. The open side of a ramp or landing should have a raised kerb in order to prevent feet and wheels
slipping off. The kerb or barrier should be painted in a contrasting colour to the ramp and its surroundings.
Surface/appearance
16. There should be contrasts of colour and tone between the ramp and adjacent areas, such as handrails
and background colour. If the coloured markings are to be provided on the ramp itself, however, they should
form a V configuration pointing in the change of direction, rather than a line at top and bottom which could
create confusion with stairs.
17. Ramps should have a permanent, regular, non-slip surface. Indoor ramps should not be covered in
deep- or shag-pile carpet, as this is difficult to traverse in a wheelchair. External ramps should not be
covered with glazed or polished masonry or cobblestones.
18. Outdoor ramps should not allow the accumulation of water on their surface; for this reason, a camber of
1:100 (max. 1:50) is permissible, which should not affect the steering of wheeled conveyances or other
items. There should be gaps of 10-15mm left at intervals in the edging, above the level of the ramp, to
enable rainwater and grit to drain off.
19. Ramps can be dangerous in wet or icy weather. Where possible, outdoor ramps should have a canopy
above, to protect them from rain and snow.
20. Where a ramp leads down to a road or any place where there may be traffic, a barrier in the form of a
railing to a height of 1100mm across the full width of the ramp should be installed at the bottom of the ramp,
in order to prevent users walking or rolling into the road; such a barrier should be no more than 1500mm
from the base of the ramp.
21. Where a ramp intersects with a pedestrian route, there should be a level area of 900mm length, in order
to allow wheelchair users and people with pushchairs to turn round and join the flow of pedestrians.
22. The ramp should be clear of obstructions for the width of the ramp and to a minimum height of 1980mm
(excluding handrails).
Lighting
23. External ramps and walkways should have a minimum lighting level of 75 lux at the pavement. This
should be increased to 150 lux where the building is designed specifically for visually impaired people.
February 2000
Page 25
EXTERNAL CHANGE IN LEVEL: STEPS

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
3.01 Does the approach route incorporate steps?
Note: The Building Regulation items listed below are for steps
attached to buildings only. Steps not attached to buildings should
be audited in the same way but their scores should be recorded in
the NHSiS column.
3.02 Do the top and bottom landings to each flight of steps have
tactile surfaces to give advance warning of the change in level?
See diagram.
3.03 Is the lighting adequate and well positioned?
Lighting should be free of shadows.
3.04 Are all step nosings readily identifiable and colour contrasted?
A nosing is the front edge of the step.
3.05 Is the unobstructed width of the flight at least 1000mm?
A flight is the length of a single run of steps.
3.06 Is the rise of the flight between landings not more than 1200mm
maximum?
Note: The Building Regulations allow a maximum rise of 16 risers.
3.07 Are the top, bottom and intermediate levels at least 1200mm
long and clear of any door swing?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 26
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
3.08 Is the rise of each step uniform and no more than 170mm?
See diagram.
3.09 Is the going of each step at least 250mm?
If the treads taper, the going should be measured 270mm from the
inside of the stair.
3.10 Are the risers solid/closed in?
3.11 Is the tread nosing profile suitable and designed to avoid risk
of people catching their feet? See diagram.
3.12 Is there suitable continuous handrail each side? See diagram.
3.13 Is the top of the handrail 900mm above the pitch line of a
flight of steps and 8401000mm above the surface of a landing?
bottom of the steps?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 27
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
grip?
3.17 Are any hazardous overhangs to the underside of steps
protected to avoid people walking into them?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 28
HBN 40
DIAG. 4
max1200
(see note 6)
900
610
handrail
extension
300
handrails
(see notes 18-20)
2000
handrail
extension
300
edge protection
(see note 10)
recess at bottom of
steps (see note 5)
750
recess at top of steps

(see note 5)
650
circulation
1500 (1200)
circulation
clear distance between handrails

to be maintained on landings
1500 (1200)
150
1700 (1200)
(see notes 13-17)
1500 (1000)
2000 (1500)

1500 (1200)
130(100)
150 max
800
400
min
max
tactile
warning
(see note 12)
400
max
800
min
tactile
warning
(see note 12)
300(280)
350 max
13mm radius
nosings see note 9

Notes:
All sizes in mm
a. See notes on following page
1350 (1300)
February 2000
Page 29

Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990 for specific legislative requirements.
2. If a level approach to the buildings entrance cannot be achieved, then steps and a ramp must be
provided. Steps are preferred to ramps by many people, and, when correctly detailed, steps provide
independent access for many ambulant disabled people for example, those with arthritis or those who use
crutches. However, steps are a barrier to people in wheelchairs or with pushchairs/prams etc, so a ramp
should be provided wherever there are steps (see notes to data sheet ramps).
Approach and landings
3. People with impaired sight are at risk of tripping or losing their balance when meeting sudden changes in
level; this risk is at its greatest when approaching the head of a flight of steps. The existence of steps, on
their own or within a flight, should be made apparent; stairs should be designed so that they are not a
continuation of the line of normal pedestrian travel.
4. The clear, unobstructed length of landings should be 1500mm (1200mm as a minimum). The top and
bottom steps of a flight should not encroach onto the landing area.
5. Steps should not interfere with circulation spaces; they should be recessed from the circulation route by
at least 600mm at the top and 750mm at the bottom, to avoid pedestrian collisions and to allow handrails to
level out.
Height
6. Although many ambulant disabled people find it easier to climb steps than to use ramps, it is still
important that any flights of steps are not too long and are broken up by landings. The maximum
recommended height for the rise of a flight of external steps between landings is 1200mm and there should
be a minimum of three and a maximum of nine steps. (Note: The Technical Standards allow a maximum rise
of 16 risers.)
7. Generally, the flatter the pitch (angle), the safer steps will be. The recommended pitch for public steps is
27o (with a maximum of 34o).
Risers and goings
8. Risers and goings should be uniform throughout the flight, as any irregularities can cause people to
stumble.
Nosings
9, Nosings should be marked in a colour/tone that contrasts with the colour of the stairs, extending the full
width of the step and reaching a depth of 50-60mm on both tread and riser. Any edges should be firmly
fixed and be of a non-slip type. Sharp nosings and abrupt angles should be avoided.
Edge protection
10. It is necessary to prevent feet, crutches and sticks from accidentally slipping off the edge of open-plan
steps. For steps not adjacent to walls, a barrier, with a maximum height of 100mm above the level of the
treads, should be provided.
February 2000
Page 30
Step surface and type

11. The surface of the steps must be (and also appear to be) non-slip, and to aid visually impaired people
the risers should be a contrasting colour to the treads. A fall of 1:100 is recommended, to prevent water
from accumulating on the steps and to maintain a non-slip surface in wet conditions.
12. A change in surface texture at the top and bottom of each flight of steps is needed, to act as a warning
for visually impaired people that there is a change in level ahead. This surface should be of a corduroy
texture.
Width of steps
13. Distractions should be avoided, especially at the top of steps where people may lose their concentration
as well as their footing.
14. In addition, the use of open risers is not recommended, since they are especially dangerous for the
ambulant disabled such as those users with braces and prostheses who need a solid rise to guide their
feet onto the next tread. Open risers allow feet to catch on the underside of the tread, and are therefore also
hazardous to those using sticks and canes.
15. Single steps, and any changes in level of less than 100mm, are to be avoided, as are spiral and helical
steps.
16. The steps must be wide enough for people to negotiate comfortably by holding onto either one or both
handrails or by being assisted. The width of the steps should reflect the amount of pedestrian traffic.
17. A minimum clear step width of 1000mm for one person, or 1500mm for two-way traffic, is necessary. A
middle handrail should be provided on any flights of steps wider than 1800mm.
Handrails
18. Reference should be made to the handrail data sheet later in this volume for further guidance.
19. Handrails are required by some users to help them to pull up steps; they are also used for balance and
support when descending. Handrail extensions also provide tactile cues to the presence of changes in level
for visually impaired people.
20. Handrails:
must continue for a minimum of 300mm horizontally from the top step; where the handrail does not
interrupt pedestrian routes, an extension of 450mm from the top step is recommended. Central
handrails may project into the landings by the same amount as the going, and for external steps leading
to an entrance door the central handrail should continue across the landing to the door;
must be located within the width of the tread; and
should be provided on both sides of the steps, to assist people with left or right disabilities, those using a
walking stick, or those carrying a bag in one hand.
Balustrades
21. Balustrades should be provided around landings to a height of 1100mm, to prevent people falling. They
should not allow young children to fall between the gaps (which should be no wider than 100mm), nor
provide toeholds for climbing up.
Lighting
22. Steps and landings should be well illuminated, either naturally or by artificial means. The lighting should
be designed so that it highlights the differences between risers and treads, the top and bottom steps, and
any changes in direction.
February 2000
Page 31
B: Entrance and
Reception
External doors, lobbies and
reception areas
February 2000
Page 32
ENTRANCE

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
4.01 Is the door clearly colour contrasted or distinguishable from the
surrounding faade?
4.02 If a glass door, is it visible in its closed position through transoms,
large pull handles, glazing manifestation bands or logos?
4.03 Does the entrance door contain a leaf which provides a
minimum clear opening width of at least 800mm? See diagram.
4.04 Does the door have a flush threshold?
4.05 Is there a glazed panel in the door giving a zone of visibility of
at least between 900mm and 1500mm above floor level?
4.06 Is there adequate unobstructed space (300mm) available
alongside the leading edge of the door to enable a disabled
person to open the door clear of the door swing?
See diagram. Not required for automatic doors.
4.07 Is the door handle/control clearly colour contrasted from the door?
4.08 Is the door handle/control set at approximately 1000mm above floor
level?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 33
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
4.09 Is the door handle/control easy for a person with restricted mobility
to operate?
4.10 If a door closer is fitted, does it have slow action or delay check to
give disabled people time to pass through?
4.11 Is the door closer pressure gentle and not greater than 25-30
Newtons? Closer pressure should be minimum necessary to close
the door effectively.
4.12 Is the door automatically operated?
Automatic sliding doors preferred to automatic swing doors where
possible.
4.13 If the door is automatically operated, does it have both visual and
tactile information and warnings?
4.14 If the door is automatically operated, does it have a safety sensor
override to avoid trapping users? Remote photo eyesensor, or floor
pressure mat sensors, are preferred to impact baffle sensors fitted to
the leading edge of the door, which can injure users.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 34
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
4.15 If a revolving door is used, is there an immediately adjacent
alternative door meeting the above criteria and available at all
times? Neither manual nor automatic revolving doors are easily
accessible to disabled people.
4.16 Is there a means of summoning assistance if the door cannot be
operated?
4.17 If the door is security-protected, is the entry system or entry phone
suitable for use by people with hearing, sight, speech or mobility
disabilities and set between 900mm and 1200mm above floor level?
4.18 Is any weather mat of firm texture and flush with the floor?
4.19 Are doors regularly checked and maintained?
4.20 If a lobby is provided, does the inner door meet the same access
criteria as the outer door?
4.21 Does the lobby layout enable wheelchair users to clear one
door before opening the second, with minimal manoeuvring?
See diagram. This is for external lobbies. For internal lobbies see
Section 6.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 35
B. REGS.
DIAG. 5
2000
2400
1500
1800
800 min
clear
1500
1800
1800
2300
300
800 min
clear
300
Plans of Typical Lobby Arrangements
Entrance and Reception: Entrance
All sizes in mm
Notes:
February 2000
Page 36
RECEPTION

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
5.01 Are signs consistently designed and located to convey information
to wheelchair users and people with sensory disabilities?
See Signage Section 22.
5.02 Are the lighting levels suitable for people with sensory disabilities
and free from excessive glare and shadows?
5.03 Are the acoustics suitable for people with sensory disabilities and
free from unwanted noise, echo and reverberations?
5.04 Are floor surfaces slip-resistant, even when wet?
5.05 Are floor surfaces easily negotiable by wheelchair users?
5.06 Are floor surfaces colour or tactile contrasted where appropriate to
guide blind and partially sighted people?
5.07 Are junctions between floor surfaces detailed so as not to
constitute a trip hazard or an obstacle to wheelchair users?
5.08 Is the line of approach to the reception desk clearly defined and
unobstructed?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 37
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
5.09 Is any reception desk or counter suitable for use from both sides by
people either standing or sitting?
Preferably not higher than 800mm, with knee space at least 650mm
high x 400mm deep under.
5.10 Is a movable seat provided adjacent to the reception desk for people
who need to sit when talking to the receptionist?
5.11 If the reception desk is behind a glazed screen, is the glazing
non-reflective?
5.12 Does the natural and artificial lighting to the reception desk permit
the receptionists face to be clearly seen?
5.13 Are wall finishes non-reflective and free from confusing or distracting
patterns?
5.14 Is a hearing enhancement system provided for communication
with hearing aid users?
Induction loop or infra red systems are the most commonly specified.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 38
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
5.15 Are appointment call announcements given both audibly and
visually for deaf, hard of hearing, blind and partially sighted people?
Usually via digital display or TV monitor.
5.16 If appointment call number/ticket dispensers are provided, are
they located at not more than 1200mm height with at least 1200 x
1200mm clear space in front?
5.17 Is the waiting area seating designed with a choice of seating heights,
with and without armrests?
5.18 Does the waiting area have sufficient space for wheelchair and buggy
users to wait and manoeuvre?
5.19 Does the waiting area have sufficient space for people to pass
without compromising legroom for people who are seated?
5.20 If coat hooks are provided in the waiting area, are these at
approximately 1200mm height for wheelchair users and 1700mm
height for others?
5.21 If a television or video is provided in the waiting area, does this have
a hearing enhancement system for deaf and hard of hearing people?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 39
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
5.22 If a television or video is provided in the waiting area, does this have
teletext subtitles for deaf and hard of hearing people?
5.23 Is the waiting area within 45 metres of an accessible WC?
5.24 Are public telephones mounted at a height suitable for all users with
no controls or coin slots higher than 1200mm from floor level?
5.25 Is there at least 1200 x 1200mm clear space in front of public
telephones?
5.26 Do public telephones have an amplifier and inductive coupler for
hearing aid users?
5.27 Is a suitable seat available for use by people who need to sit down
when using the telephone?
5.28 Are public telephones fitted with a small shelf at approximately
750mm height for placing change, bags and portable textphones?
5.29 Is a textphone facility provided for deaf and hard of hearing people?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 40
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
5.30 If a childs play area is provided, is it accessible to disabled
children and parents?
5.31 Is there a nappy change space and separate feeding area, with
nappy change table and washbasin accessible to wheelchair users?
Recommended height of nappy change table max. 800mm with knee
space at least 650mm high x 400mm deep under.
5.32 Is there a suitable secure parking area for prams, buggies and
scooters?
5.33 Are water and toileting facilities available for assistance dogs?
5.34 Are suitable charging facilities available for powered wheelchairs
and other equipment?
5.35 Are any charging facilities for powered wheelchairs and other
equipment located in a secure fire-resisting ventilated enclosure?
5.36 For people progressing beyond this area into other parts of the
building, is information given by appropriate signs, supported by
tactile information such as a map or a model?
See Signage Section 22 of this Checklist.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 41
HBN 40
DIAG. 6
1750 eye level

tall man
1420 eye level
small woman
1150 eye level

small woman in
wheelchair
1000 counter
height
seat height
adjustable from 430
to 530 and footrest
(see note 3)
100
600
ambulant
passing
1500
wheelchair turning
circle and access to
and withdrawal
from counter
500
900
space for space for
keyboard access and
and
withdrawal
papers
600
ambulant passing
(800 is required
for the passing of a
records trolley)
300
writing
shelf/computer
housing and
stationery
side storage
on/and
under
worktop
worktop workspace
side storage
on/and
under
worktop
800
1200
space for assisted
passing
1200
space for
wheelchair
600
person seated
at counter
400
250
shelf for
bags
800
800
600
standing
at counter
400
900
independent
wheelchair
passing
worktop workspace
Entrance and Reception: Reception Counter

Notes:
1350 (1300)
1. A sitting height counter may act as a
psychological barrier to a patient/escort who
may be violent. A counter depth of 800
should help to protect staff, whilst still
700 worktop height
allowing receptionist and patient to hear each

other. A counter depth of 800 will also allow
adequate space for the computer. The
computer could be protected by a raised area,
although this should not throw shadows on
the screen. The worktop height should be
700 for sitting to use the keyboard.
2. Glazed screens between receptionists
maximise confidentiality of discussions
between patient and receptionist.
February 2000
possible
location of
glass screen
between
receptionists
1200
700 shelf for

bags and
knee hole for
w/ch user
1100 seated eye

level small woman
min
workstation
width per
receptionist
All sizes in mm
3. An adjustable height (430 - 530), swivel

chair with castors is required for the
receptionist. A footrest should be provided.
4. Each workstation should incorporate an
alarm button for staff to summon assistance.
5. Mobile, under worktop storage units for
personal belongings are preferred for greater
flexibility.
Page 42
C: Horizontal and
Vertical Circulation
Horizontal and vertical circulation, corridors,
internal ramps, stairs and lifts
February 2000
Page 43
CORRIDOR

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
6.01 Does the corridor or passageway have an unobstructed width
of at least 1200mm?
If the corridor is approachable by stairway alone and does not
have lift access, then an unobstructed width of 1000mm is
permissible. For people to pass, min. 1500mm corridor width is
recommended.
6.02 Do all lobbies allow users, including wheelchair users, to
clear one door before approaching the second with minimal
manoeuvring?
See diagram. This is for internal lobbies. For external lobbies see
Section 4.
6.03 Is the corridor free from obstructions to wheelchair users and hazards
to blind and partially sighted people?
6.04 Are radiators of low surface temperature type to avoid burning
when touched?
6.05 Is turning space available for wheelchair users?
If turning 90 degrees from a 900mm wide corridor into a doorway,
a 1000mm doorset is the minimum acceptable. If turning from a
1200mm wide corridor, a 900mm doorset is acceptable but a
1000mm doorset is preferred.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 44
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
6.06 Are rest points with suitable seats provided on long corridors?
6.07 Is the natural and artificial lighting free from excessive glare and
shadows?
Windows at the end of corridors can cause excessive glare and
shadows unless balanced with artificial lighting internally.
6.08 Are the acoustics free from echo and excessive reverberation?
6.09 Are floor, wall and ceiling surfaces free from reflections?
6.10 Are visual clues available to help orientation, such as colour coding?
6.11 Are textured surfaces used to convey information to blind and
partially sighted people, such as contrasting floor textures at
corridor junction and on lift landings?
6.13 Does signage and information comply with Signage Section 22 of
this Checklist?
6.14 Are the above features regularly checked and maintained?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 45
LOCATION
6.00
CORRIDOR
6.01
Does the corridor or passageway have an unobstructed width of at least 1200mm?
6.02
Do all lobbies allow users, including wheelchair users, to clear one door before approaching the second?
6.03
Is the corridor free from obstructions to wheelchair users and hazards to blind and partially sighted people?
6.04
Are radiators of low surface temperature type to avoid burning when touched?
6.05
Is turning space available for wheelchair users?
6.06
Are rest points with suitable seats provided on long corridors?
6.07
Is the natural and artificial lighting free from excessive glare and shadows?
6.08
Are the acoustics free from echo and excessive reverberation?
6.09
Are floor, wall and ceiling surfaces free from reflections?
6.10
Are visual clues available to help orientation, such as colour coding?
6.11
Are textured surfaces used to convey information to blind and partially sighted people?
6.12
Are floor surfaces easily negotiable by wheelchair users?
6.13
Does signage and information comply with Signage Section 22 of this Checklist?
6.14
Are the above features regularly checked and maintained?
Total
Maximum possible points
Actual points
February 2000
Page 46
B. REGS.
DIAG. 7
2000
2400
1500
1800
1500
1800
1800
2300
300
300
1200
min
2000
750
min clear
Corridor suitable
for wheelchairs
1500
1100
300
min
300
Plans of Typical Internal Lobby Arrangements
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation: Corridor
All sizes in mm
Notes:
February 2000
Page 47
INTERNAL RAMP
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
7.01 For a short rise within a single storey is a permanent ramp
available?
Ramps are not required if alternative lift provision is made (see
Sections 10 and 11).
7.02 If a permanent ramp cannot be constructed, is a suitable secure
portable ramp available and are staff trained to use it?
Portable ramps are not recommended unless there is no other option.
7.03 Is there adequate manoeuvring space at the top and bottom of
the ramp?
Min. 1200mm long level approach recommended.
7.04 Is the ramp surface slip resistant?
7.05 Is the surface width of the ramp at least 1200mm wide and
unobstructed width of the ramp at least 1000mm wide?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 48
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
7.07 If the ramp gradient is between 1 in 15 and 1 in 12, is the
length of each individual flight 5m or less?
shallower than 1 in 20, it is considered a level approach. If it is
steeper than 1 in 12, it is too steep to be used by disabled people
7.08 Are appropriate intermediate landings provided at least
1200mm long?
100mm high?
7.10 Are there suitable continuous handrails each side and also
to landings?
background?
7.12 Is the top of the handrail 840-1000mm above the surface of the
ramp and above the surface of a landing?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 49
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
bottom of the ramp?
project into route of travel?
grip?
steps?
7.17 Are the ramp and approaches maintained free of obstruction?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 50
INTERNAL STAIRCASE

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
Under Part S access within a building must be level or ramped or by
way of a suitable passenger lift to any storey above or below the
principal entrance storey, except in a two storey building where the
net floor area of the storey is less than 280 sq metres, or in a
building of more than two storeys where the net floor area of the
storey is less than 200 sq metres. In these exceptional cases, access
may be by stair, complying with the Part S questions in this section.
Note: Net floor area excludes vertical circulation, sanitary
accommodation and plant rooms.
8.01 Is the location of the stair adequately signed at each level?
8.02 Is each level clearly identified by tactile and visual information?
8.03 Is there adequate well positioned lighting?
Lighting should be free of shadows.
8.04 Is the unobstructed width of the flight at least 1000mm wide?
A flight is the length of a single run of steps.
8.05 Is the vertical rise of a flight between landings 1800mm maximum?
Note: The Building Regulations allow a maximum rise of 16 risers.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 51
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
8.06 Are the top and bottom and intermediate landings at least
1200mm long clear of any door swing? See diagram.
8.07 Is rise of each step uniform and no more than 170mm?
See diagram.
8.08 Is the going of each step uniform and at least 250mm?
See diagram.
8.09 Are the risers solid/closed in?
8.10 Is the tread nosing profile suitable and designed to avoid
risk of people catching their feet? See diagram.
8.11 Are all step nosings readily distinguishable and contrasted?
A nosing is the front edge of the step.
All stairs should comply with this question and be suitable for
blind and partially sighted people.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 52
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
8.12 Does the stair have a suitable continuous handrail each side?
See diagram.
8.13 Is the top of the handrail 840-1000mm above the pitch line of the
stairs and above the surface of a landing?
bottom of the stairs?
grip?
8.17 Are any hazardous overhangs to the underside of stairs
protected to avoid injury to blind and partially sighted people?
8.18 Are the stairs maintained in good condition and regularly checked
for obstructions?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 53
LOCATION
8.00
INTERNAL STAIRCASE
8.01
Is the location of the stair adequately signed at each level?
8.02
Is each level clearly identified by tactile and visual information?
8.03
Is there adequate well positioned lighting?
8.04
Is the unobstructed width of the flight at least 1000mm wide?
8.05
Is the vertical rise of a flight between landings 1200mm maximum?
8.06
Are the top and bottom and intermediate landings at least 1200mm long clear of any door swing?
8.07
Is rise of each step uniform and no more than 170mm?
8.08
Is the going of each step uniform and at least 250mm?
8.09
Are the risers solid/closed in?
8.10
Is the tread nosing profile suitable and designed to avoid risk of people catching their feet?
8.11
Are all step nosings readily distinguishable and contrasted?
8.12
Does the stair have a suitable continuous handrail each side?
8.13
Is the top of the handrail 840-1000mm above the pitch line of the stairs and above the surface of a landing?
8.14
Does the handrail extend at least 300mm beyond the top and bottom of the stairs?
8.15
Does the handrail terminate in a closed end which does not project into a route of travel?
8.16
Does the profile and projection of the handrail allow a firm grip?
8.17
Are any hazardous overhangs to the underside of stairs projected to avoid injury to blind and partially sighted people?
8.18
Are the stairs maintained in good condition and regularly checked for obstructions?
Total
Actual points
February 2000
Page 54
HBN 40
DIAG. 8
610
max 1800
(see note 6)
900
handrail
extension
300
handrails
(see notes 19-21)
2000
handrail
extension
300
edge protection
(see note 9)

1500 (1200)
clear distance between handrails
to be maintained on landings
1500 (1200)
150
1700 (1200)
(see notes 17-18)
1500 (1000)
2000 (1500)

1500 (1200)
800
400
min
max
tactile
warning
(see note 12)
400
max
800
min
tactile
warning
(see note 12)
170 max
nosings see note 8

280(250)
290 max
15-25mm
a square nosing is less

satisfactory than a
splayed riser as it can
trap the toe during
ascent
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation: Internal Stairs

Notes:
All sizes in mm
a. See notes on following page
1350 (1300)
February 2000
Page 55
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation: Internal Stairs

Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990.
2. Stairs are a barrier to people in wheelchairs or those with pushchairs or prams. A ramp can be provided
in some situations, which will also facilitate egress in an emergency (see data sheet for Ramps); however,
ramps are generally not considered appropriate for any significant changes in level within a building.
3. The dimensions illustrated in this data sheet only provide for general ambulant and semi-ambulant
access. (Reference should be made to SHTM 81 and the Staircase, mattress evacuation data sheets in
Volume 4 of HBN 40 with regard to the requirements for mattress evacuation.)
Approach and landings
4. People with impaired sight are at risk of tripping or losing their balance when meeting sudden changes in
level; the risk is greatest when approaching the head of a flight of steps. The existence of steps, on their
own or within a flight, should be made apparent; stairs should be designed so that they are not a
continuation of the line of normal pedestrian travel.
5. The clear, unobstructed length of landings in hospitals should be 1500mm (1200mm minimum). The top
and bottom steps of a flight should not encroach onto the landing area.
Height
6. The maximum permitted height for the rise of a flight of internal stairs between landings is 1800mm.
(Note: The Technical Standards allow a maximum rise of 16 risers.)
Risers and goings
7. Risers and goings should be uniform throughout the flight, as any irregularities can cause people to
stumble. Risers should not be of the open type. The minimum internal going is 280mm.
Nosings
8. Nosings should be marked in a colour/tone that contrasts with the colour of the stairs, extending the full
width of the step, and reaching a depth of 50-60mm on both tread and riser, to allow visually impaired
people to detect the edge of each step. Any edges should be firmly fixed and be of a non-slip type.
Although rounded nosings can cause slipping, sharp nosings and abrupt angles should still be avoided.
Edge protection
9. It is necessary to prevent feet, crutches and sticks from accidentally slipping off the edge of open-plan
steps. For steps not adjacent to walls, a barrier, with a maximum height of 100mm above the level of the
treads, should be provided.
Step surface and type
10. The surface of the steps must be (and appear to be) non-slip, and to aid visually impaired people the
risers should be a contrasting colour to the treads.
11. Stair finishes must not have patterns which cause step edges to be indistinguishable to visually
impaired people, or which can otherwise cause visual confusion of any kind.
12. A change in surface texture at the top and bottom of the steps is needed, to act as a warning for visually
impaired people that there is a change in level ahead. Such changes could simply be from a carpeted
surface to a vinyl surface; corduroy or blister tactile surfaces should not be used in this instance.
February 2000
Page 56
13. Distractions should be avoided, especially at the top of steps where people may lose their concentration
as well as their footing.
14. In addition, the use of open risers is not recommended, since open risers are hazardous to all users;
they are especially dangerous for the ambulant disabled with leg braces and prostheses, who need a solid
riser to guide their feet onto the next tread. Open risers allow feet to catch on the underside of the tread,
and are therefore hazardous to those using sticks and canes.
15. Open areas on the underside of stairs should also be avoided, to eliminate the possibility of anyone
including the fully sighted walking into the overhang created. If enclosure is not possible, then two rails
one at 1000mm, and one at 200mm above floor level for cane users or some other strategically placed,
permanent barrier, should be provided.
16. Single steps and any changes in level less than 100mm are to be avoided, as are helical and spiral
steps (the treads of which are often too narrow).
Width of steps
17. The steps must be wide enough for people to negotiate comfortably by holding onto either one or both
handrails or by being assisted. The width of the steps should reflect the amount of pedestrian traffic.
18. A minimum clear step width of 1000mm for one person, or 1500mm for two-way traffic, is necessary. A
middle handrail should be provided on any flights of steps wider than 1800mm. It is recommended that
channels are a minimum of 1000mm wide, to ensure that people can use both handrails if they wish.
Handrails
19. Reference should be made to the Handrails ergonomic data sheet later in this section for further
guidance.
20. Handrails are required by some users to help them to pull up steps; they are also used for balance and
support when descending. Handrail extensions also provide tactile cues to the presence of changes in level
for visually impaired people.
21. Handrails:
must continue for a minimum of 300mm horizontally from the top step; where the handrail does not
interrupt pedestrian routes, an extension of 450mm from the top step is recommended. Central
handrails may project into the landings by the same amount as the going;
must be located within the width of the tread; and
should be provided on both sides of the steps, in order to assist people with left or right disabilities,
those using a walking stick, or those carrying a bag in one hand.
Balustrades
22. Balustrades should be provided around landings to a height of 1100mm, to prevent people falling. They
Lighting
23. Steps and landings should be well illuminated, either naturally or by artificial means. The lighting should
be designed so that it highlights the differences between risers and treads, the top and bottom steps, and
any changes in direction.
February 2000
Page 57
HBN 40
DIAG. 9
alternative recessed
handrail section
(see note 5)
must be rounded
to minimise
possible injury
900-1000
height of
handrail
(see note 6)
ambulant
circulation
700
space for
independent walking
using handrail
750 with recessed
handrail (see note 5)
250 (200)
900
space for
independent
wheelchair
circulation
minimum arm
access to
recessed rail
space for assisted

walking using
handrail
45-50
see right
45-50
minimum
preferred
clearance
60 (45)
(see notes 3-5)
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation: Handrails

Notes:
(see note 3)
50
1300 (1100)
125 (100)
600
height of
handrail
(see note 6)
900-1000
All sizes in mm
See notes on following page.
1350 (1300)
February 2000
Page 58
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation: Handrails

1. Many people rely on handrails for balance and support, particularly when walking up and down steps,
stairs and ramps, but also when in lifts and moving along corridors. In ascent, handrails are grasped at
intervals, whereas during descent hands are usually slid continuously down them. Handrails are important
for wheelchair users to hold onto when resting on ramps. Handrails also provide safety barriers on open
ramps and stairways.
Appearance/texture
2. Handrails:
should be easily visible in advance, and be of a contrasting colour to the surface to which they are fixed;
should be smooth, and free of any abrasive elements;
should be neither too cold nor too hot to the touch, especially those which are situated outdoors;
can have raised indicators built in, to convey such information as floor level.
Shape and size

3. Handrails should be easy to grasp, and the shape and size must allow a firm but comfortable grip with
the whole hand. Handrails which are too small are uncomfortable and provide an unsatisfactory grip,
whereas handrails which are too large are difficult to grip for people with weak or arthritic hands. A round
cross-section is recommended; this type of handrail is easiest to grip, and should ideally have a diameter of
between 45mm and 50mm; the next most acceptable handrails are oval, measuring between 18mm and
37mm horizontally and between 32mm and 50mm vertically. (Whilst other shapes may also be acceptable,
handrails with a large, square or vertically mounted and rectangular cross-section should be avoided.)
Clearance
4. Handrails must allow enough space between them and the adjacent walls or other obstacles for fingers
and hands to pass without scraping knuckles. (A clearance of 60mm is preferred; although a minimum
clearance of 45mm complies with the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations, this is uncomfortably tight
for arthritic hands, especially if gloves are worn.)
5. Recessed handrail sections are not satisfactory, since they cannot be leant on for support. If this solution
is unavoidable, any recesses containing handrails should extend for 250mm above the top of the rail.
Height
6. The top of the handrail should ideally be 900mm above the surface of the ramp or pitch line of a flight of
steps; a second, lower, rail the top of which should be at a height of 610mm should also be provided, for
the benefit of wheelchair users and children.
Extent
7. Continuous handrails on stairways and landings help visually impaired people to negotiate changes in
direction. Handrails should therefore be continuous around the inside of dog-legs on stairways and ramps
and continue around intermediate landings. Vertical handrail risers on turns, or any interruption of handrails
to accommodate newel posts and supports, should be avoided.
8. Handrail extensions provide tactile cues as to the presence of changes in level for visually impaired
people; they should extend horizontally for 300mm past each end of the feature, and where they do not
interrupt pedestrian routes an extension of 450mm is recommended. They should return to the wall or floor
or at least 100mm downwards, and should not project into any pedestrian routes.
9. A central handrail of a stairway may project into the landing by the same amount as the going.
February 2000
Page 59
Distance between rails

10. For guidance regarding the recommended distance between handrails on corridors, steps and ramps,
reference should be made to the relevant data sheets elsewhere in this volume.
Withstandable force
11. Handrails should be rigid, securely fixed and able to support the weight of a person leaning on them.
They should be able to withstand a concentrated momentary horizontal force of 91 kg applied to the top
edge and 30% of that vertically down, and they should be able to withstand a minimum vertical load or
horizontal pull of 1.33 kN.
Balustrades
12. Balustrades must be provided around landings to a height of 1100mm, to prevent people falling. They
February 2000
Page 60
LIFT

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
9.01 Is a passenger lift provided?
See Section 8 for guidance on access within a building and the
provision of lifts.
9.02 Are the lift landing doors adequately colour contrasted from the
surrounding wall?
9.03 Is the floor landing indication clear and the call controls
between 900-1200mm high?
9.04 Immediately outside the lift is there sufficient unobstructed
space of at least 1500 x 1500mm for wheelchair users to turn?
9.05 Is there a 1500 x 1500mm contrasting texture floor finish
immediately outside the lift for blind and partially sighted
people to identify the lift location?
9.06 Does the lift door provide a clear opening width of at least
800mm?
9.07 Do the lift doors have a delayed action closer and a photo
sensor safety override to allow for 5 second delay and avoid
trapping disabled people?
Door edge strike sensor systems are hazardous and not
recommended.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 61
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
9.08 Is the lift car at least 1100mm wide and 1400mm long?
9.09 Does the car have internal handrails, appropriately designed
and positioned?
9.10 Are the lift controls and emergency call located between
900mm and 1200mm above floor level and set back at least
400mm from the front wall corner?
9.11 Is the storey identified by suitable tactile indication on the
landing and on the lift call buttons?
9.12 Is there suitable tactile indication to the lift buttons within
the car to identify the floor selected?
Raised letters or numerals are recommended in preference to
engraved.
9.13 If the lift serves more than two floors, is there visual and
audible indication of the floor reached, with a voice announcer
for blind and partially sighted people?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 62
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
9.14 Does the lift car floor accurately align with landings at all levels?
9.15 Is the lift regularly checked and maintained?
9.16 Is there an alternative suitable staircase?
Some users cannot tolerate lifts and alternative stairs should always
be available in the event of lift breakdown or evacuation.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 63
LOCATION
9.00
LIFT
9.01
Is a passenger lift provided?
9.02
Are the lift landing doors adequately colour contrasted from the surrounding wall?
9.03
Is the floor landing indication clear and the call controls between 900-1200mm high?
9.04
Immediately outside the lift is there at least 1500 x 1500mm for wheelchair users to turn?
9.05
Is there a 1500 x 1500mm contrasting texture floor finish immediately outside the lift?
9.06
Does the lift door provide a clear opening width of at least 800mm?
9.07
Do the lift doors have a delayed action closer and a photo sensor safety override?
9.08
Is the lift car at least 1100mm wide and 1400mm long?
9.09
Does the car have internal handrails, appropriately designed and positioned?
9.10
Are the lift controls and emergency call located between 900mm and 1200mm above floor level?
9.11
Is the storey identified by suitable tactile indication on the landing and on the lift call buttons?
9.12
Is there suitable tactile indication to the lift buttons within the car to identify the floor selected?
9.13
Is there visual and audible indication of the floor reached, with a voice announcer?
9.14
Does the lift car floor accurately align with landings at all levels?
9.15
Is the lift regularly checked and maintained?
9.16
Is there an alternative suitable staircase?
Total
Actual points
February 2000
Page 64
HBN 40
DIAG. 10
landing/manoeuvring space,
assisted users (see note 4)
1900
600 (500)
manoeuvring space
beyond door opening,
assisted users
(minimum dimension
only suitable for
independent use)
landing/manoeuvring space,
independent users (see note 4)
1500
acceptable zone for
location of lift call controls
600
200
1600 (1400)
minimum dimensions not

recommended for wheelchair use
(see note 1)
manoeuvring space
assisted wheelchair
users
2900
1100
(see notes 21-23,
lifts general)
1200 (1000)
1400
(see note 1)
acceptable zone for

location of call controls
300
600
clearance
tip up seat
900
handrails
(see note 20)
acceptable zone
for display and
controls
(see note 10-14,
lifts general)
200
200
600
600
acceptable zones for display and controls
(see note 8-14, lifts general)
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation: Lift and Controls

Notes:
1350 (1300)
1. The minimum lift size for wheelchair use

is a 630kg, 1100 x 1400mm lift. However,
this size of car does not allow for turning of a
wheelchair or reasonable space for an
assistant/attendant. A 1100mm x 1400mm
lift is therefore not recommended for general
use in health care buildings.
recess of 100mm just allows independent

wheelchair turning, although some users
may have difficulty. However, space is
available for an assistant/attendant.
3. Handrails should be provided on both the
side and rear walls of a passenger lift car.
4. The landing/lobby dimensions shown are
for wheelchair movement only. Reference
should be made to BS 5655 Part 5 and
Part S of the Technical Standards for actual/
minimum requirements.
5. The controls should be positioned inside
the lift as follows:
2. A 1600mm x 1400mm car with a door
All sizes in mm
i. Where the wheelchair user can turn 180 ,

600 (400)mm from the front edge of the lift.
ii. Where the wheelchair user cannot turn
(i.e. a 1100mm x 1400mm lift), frontal entry
only, 500mm from the front edge of the lift.
6. In a 1100mm x 1400mm lift the visual
indicator for lift activity should be located on
the side wall of the car to allow a frontal
access wheelchair user to see it. In a
1600mm x 1400mm lift the indicator can be
located above the door as standard.
7. See also Lifts general notes on the
following pages.
February 2000
Page 65
Horizontal and Vertical Circulation: Lift and Controls

Lifts - General
1. The following guidance is provided for planning purposes only. More detailed technical information is
contained in HTM 2004, Lifts. Lifts are provided in health buildings as a primary method of moving a
number of different types of load between two or more defined, fixed floor levels; these loads will generally
be embraced by one of the following categories:
a. pedestrian(s) (fully ambulant and the mobility impaired): visitors, staff or patients, including those in
wheelchairs, mothers with buggies, the visually impaired and people with walking frames, etc. The
alternatives to lifts (steps/stairs, stair lifts, platform lifts, escalators and travelators) are not ideally
accessible to all, and internal ramps between floors are only considered appropriate for materials supply
and disposal purposes (see paragraph 1c below), and therefore a wheelchair accessible lift must be
provided;
b. patient trolley: the majority of bed patient movement between wards and treatment areas, as well as
emergency patient movement (for example from A and E), will be on a stretcher trolley;
c.
goods trolley: in large healthcare buildings, the movement of all essential supplies will be carried out
either by a manually propelled trolley or by a trolley propelled by an electric tow truck;
d. bed(s): the movement of patients in beds should be minimised in new building design by the proper
design of departmental layouts and inter-departmental relationships.
Selection of lifts
2. When considering the need for lifts, the selection should not restrict one type of load to a certain type of
lift. The lifts should be selected so that they are versatile and can accommodate as many types of load as
are considered practical.
3. The number, types, size and speeds of lifts should be determined from a traffic analysis specific to the
proposed building development, and should allow adequate flexibility of the lift solution to accommodate
future changes.
Lift landings
4. Each lift should open onto a lobby of adequate depth, in order not to restrict the flow of traffic in front of
the lift entrance that is, lifts must not open directly onto corridors.
5. The dimensions given on the individual ergonomic data sheets for the lift landing relate to the space
requirements for the manoeuvring of users and equipment only. The depth of the lobby should be a
minimum of that recommended in BS 5655 Part 5 1989 (Table 9, Landing depth), for non-residential and
bed/passenger lifts.
6. There should be a contrast of tone and colour between the walls and the lift doors and between the
landing and the lift floor, to assist visually impaired people. Additionally, a distinguishable floor surface
measuring at least 1500 sq mm outside the lift door area will assist visually impaired people to locate the
lift door.
Landing indicators
7. Lift indication at the main landing entrances should comprise:
a digital full position indicator;
lift direction-of-travel arrows;
a lift arrival gong (sounding two strokes for up, one for down).
February 2000
Page 66
Lift indication at all other floors should comprise:
lift direction-of-travel arrows;
a lift arrival gong.
For a single lift, the floors other than that where the main entrance is situated may also have a full position
indicator.
Landing calls
8. The controls for calling the lift should be easy to understand, accessible, and simple to operate. BS 5655
Part 7 provides suitable information on the provision and nomenclature for types of lift call systems relevant
to the type of control system selected.
9. The landing controls should be mounted at a height of between 900mm and 1200mm above floor level,
and the push-button controls should:
be mounted in a single face-plate which contrasts with the landing decoration;
be configured so that the up push-button is located above that for down;
have raised or tactile embossed arrowhead symbols, either upon the pressel or on a chicklet adjacent
to the push-button corresponding to the lifts direction of travel;
have an illuminating bezel to signify that the call has been accepted by the lift;
provide a positive movement (touch-type or engraved-letter buttons should not be used in any instance).
The pressel of the push-button should measure at least 22mm square or in diameter.
Lift car controls

10. The lift car controls should be mounted at a height of between 900mm and 1200mm above the lift car
floor, and should be located on the side wall of the car, at least 400mm from the front return of the car, to
allow wheelchair users to access the lift controls.
11. The lift car operating panel should provide the following:
a digital full position indicator;
direction-of-travel arrows;
an alarm push;
a push-button for each floor served;
a key switch, for independent service.
12. All symbols for floor designation should be provided as a raised tactile-embossed numeral, either on the
push-button or on a chicklet adjacent to the push-button. The push-button corresponding to the main
entry/exit floor should have a raised five-pointed star adjacent to it as well as the floor designation symbol.
(This is the internationally recognised method for delineating the entry/exit floor to the visually impaired.)
The push-button should be contrasted in tone and colour to the panel on which it is mounted.
13. Audible indication of the floor levels, the lifts direction of travel, door movements, etc should be
provided for the visually impaired by means of a digitised, sampled voice-speech synthesis unit within the lift
car. The basic information provided by the speech synthesis unit (direction of travel, current floor level) may
be enhanced by further, specific information about the department(s) situated on that particular floor of the
building.
14. All visual information should be mounted at a height that is visible above other passengers heads (that
is > or = 2m).
Emergency communication
15. Emergency communication should be provided in each lift car by an alarm push-button on the car
operating panel which sounds an electronic alarm (min 95 dBa) located in the vicinity of the lift well at the
main entrance level, and which initiates an auto-dial, hands-free two-way communication link to a
permanently manned point (for example, a telephone switchboard).
February 2000
Page 67
Lift car size

16. The lift cars should be sized to suit the various types of traffic identified in paragraph 1a to 1d above. In
no case should the lift car be less than an 8-person (630 Kg) lift (that is, a car having internal dimensions of
1100mm x 1400mm). Reference should be made to the notes on the individual data sheets in HBN 40 for
guidance on the appropriate sizes for use. Where a mixture of different sizes of lift is provided in a building
which includes a bed/passenger lift, then the bed/passenger lift must serve all floors in that building.
Lift finishes
17. The lift car should be fitted with a non-slip floor covering which will maintain its non-slip properties even
when wet. The floor covering must allow small wheeled trolleys, baby buggies and wheelchairs to be easily
manoeuvred that is, it should provide good grip and a minimum resistance to wheels (studded flooring is
not recommended).
18. The lift car wall finishes should be selected dependent upon the type of healthcare building in question
and the surrounding dcor. All finishes should be easily cleanable, should not support the growth of bacteria
etc, should provide class 1 flame spread or better, and should be of a vandal resistant nature where
possible.
Lighting
19. The lighting within the lift car should be sympathetic to patients being transported on beds or trolleys
that is, not dazzling when viewed from below. Wall wash lighting, reflected uplighting or perimeter lighting
should therefore be adopted in preference to direct downlighting for trolley or bed lifts. Reference should be
made to CIBSE Guide D, SHTM 2024 and BS 5655 for further details.
Handrails
20. Handrails should be provided on the rear and side walls of passenger lift cars (see the handrails data
sheet). Reference should be made to the individual data sheets for trolley and bed lifts for the space
implications of (and recommendations for) the provision of handrails in lifts.
Doors
21. Lift doors in healthcare buildings should be a minimum of 900mm (preferably 1100mm) wide x 2000mm
high on all non-bed/passenger lifts, and 1300mm wide x 2100mm high on bed/passenger lifts.
22. All lift doors should be automatic power-operated and fitted with a full-height detector edge which will
detect an obstruction without coming into physical contact with it. In the event of failure of the car door edge
safety device, the lift door operating mechanism should be limited to less than 3 J by a pressure sensitive
switch. In addition to the safety device and pressure sensitive switch, movement through the door should be
monitored by an infra-red ray.
23. The lift doors should remain open for a minimum of 5 seconds, and the doors should have a maximum
closing speed of 0.25 m/s. Provision of an audible warning of the doors closing should be considered.
Dynamics
24. The lift car must accelerate and decelerate smoothly, and stop accurately in relation to the landing floor
level.
February 2000
Page 68
10
PLATFORM STAIRCLIMBER LIFT

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
10.01 Where part of a floor is not served by a ramp or by a passenger
lift, has a fold-down platform stairlift to BS 5776:1996 been
provided?
Platform stairlifts are only acceptable for access within a storey.
Stairclimber lifts are not generally recommended unless there is no
option when adapting existing buildings.
10.02 Is the platform of adequate size for wheelchair users and capable
of taking heavier powered wheelchairs?
At least 800 x 1000mm recommended. 850 x 1200mm preferred.
10.03 Is there adequate manoeuvring space at the lower landing?
At least 1200 x 900mm recommended.
10.04 Is there adequate and safe manoeuvring space at the upper landing?
10.05 Are the fixed controls at the lower and upper landings clearly
identifiable and located between 900mm and 1200mm height?
10.06 When not in use, does the platform revert to a folded position so
that it does not place stair users at risk?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 69
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
10.07 In the event of power failure or emergency is backup power or
battery supply provided?
10.08 Is the platform stairclimber lift regularly checked and maintained?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 70
11
VERTICAL PLATFORM LIFT

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
11.01 Where it is impractical to effect a ramped change in level
within a storey accessible to wheelchair users, has a short
rise vertical platform lift to BS 6440:1983 been installed?
Only recommended for short changes in level up to 1980mm. In
some situations can be used up to 4000mm if suitably enclosed
and protected.
11.02 Is there adequate and safe manoeuvring space at the lower landing?
11.03 Is there adequate manoeuvring space at the upper landing?
11.04 Are the controls easily identifiable and located between 900mm and
1200mm height?
11.05 Is the platform suitable for wheelchair user and manoeuvre, including
heavier powered chairs?
11.06 In the event of power failure or emergency, is backup power or
battery supply provided?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 71
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
11.07 Is the vertical platform lift regularly checked and maintained?
11.08 Is there an alternative accessible staircase?
Alternative means of access/escape should always be available
if the lift cannot be used.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 72
D: Internal Spaces
Internal doors, internal spaces,
wards and treatment areas,
catering and refreshment areas
February 2000
Page 73
12
INTERNAL DOOR
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
12.01 Is the door absolutely necessary for safety or functional reasons?
12.02 Is the door clearly colour contrasted or distinguishable from its
surroundings?
12.03 If the door is all glass, is it clearly visible in its closed position
through contrasting bands, etching or logos?
12.04 Does the door have a glazed panel giving a zone of visibility
at least between 900mm and 1500mm above floor level?
Not required for spaces where privacy is needed.
12.05 Does the door contain a leaf which provides a minimum clear
opening width of at least 750mm?
For health service premises it is desirable to have at least 850mm
clear opening. This also applies to one leaf of a double door set.
12.06 Is there at least 300mm unobstructed space alongside the
leading edge for a wheelchair user to open the door clear
of the door swing?
Not necessary for automatic doors or doors on automatic hold-open
devices.
12.07 Is the door/handle/control set at approximately 1000mm height?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 74
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
12.08 Is the door/handle/control clearly colour contrasted from the door?
12.09 Can the door/handle/control be easily gripped and operated?
12.10 If a door closer is fitted, does it have slow action or a delay check
to give disabled people time to pass through?
12.11 Is the door closer pressure easy and not greater than 25-30
Newtons?
12.12 Is the door closer of electromagnetic hold-open type and linked
to the alarm system to close automatically in emergency?
12.13 Is the door regularly checked and maintained?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 75
LOCATION
12.00
INTERNAL DOORS
12.01
Is the door absolutely necessary for safety or functional reasons?
12.02
Is the door clearly colour contrasted or distinguishable from its surroundings?
12.03
If the door is all glass, is it clearly visible in its closed position?
12.04
Does the door have a glazed panel giving a zone of visibility at least between 900mm and 1500mm above floor level?
12.05
Does the door contain a leaf which provided a minimum clear opening width of at least 750mm?
12.06
Is there at least 300mm unobstructed space alongside the leading edge of the door?
12.07
Is the door/handle/control set at approximately 1000mm height?
12.08
Is the door/handle/control clearly colour contrasted from the door?
12.09
Can the door/handle/control be easily gripped and operated?
12.10
If a door closer is fitted, does it have slow action or a delay check?
12.11
Is the door closer pressure easy and not greater than 25-30 Newtons?
12.12
Is the door closer of electromagnetic hold-open type and linked to the alarm system?
12.13
Is the door regularly checked and maintained?
Total
Actual points
February 2000
Page 76
13
INTERNAL SPACE
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
13.01 Is the space function or use identified by visual and tactile
information?
13.02 Can the lighting, heating and ventilation be independently controlled
by the users?
13.04 Can the natural and artificial lighting be adjusted to suit the
range of activities and tasks carried out?
13.05 Are the acoustics suitable for people with sensory disabilities
and free from unwanted noise, echo and reverberations?
13.06 Are wall finishes non-reflective and free from confusing or
distracting patterns?
13.08 Is sufficient circulation space available for wheelchair users?
Generally at least 900mm aisle width, with 1200mm width if
turning through 90 degrees at junctions and doorways. 1500mm
full turning circle is desirable.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 77
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
13.09 Is the space maintained clear of obstructions which would create
hazards for people with visual impairments?
when touched?
13.11 Are storage systems and equipment suitable for use from a seated
position and by people with sensory disabilities?
13.12 Are telephones fitted with amplifiers and inductive couplers and
textphones available for use by deaf and hard of hearing people?
13.13 Are all areas where information is given or meetings held
equipped with a suitable hearing enhancement system (e.g.
induction loop)?
Under Part N of the Building Regulations, this relates to spaces in
excess of 100m2 in areas such as meeting or seminar rooms.
Suitable hearing enhancement systems must be provided in
areas such as information counters where separating glazed
screens are used.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 78
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
13.14 If areas are not fitted with a hearing enhancement system, is a
portable hearing enhancement system available as required?
13.15 Is the hearing enhancement system regularly checked and
maintained?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 79
LOCATION
13.00
INTERNAL SPACE
13.01
Is the space function or use identified by visual and tactile information?
13.02
Can the lighting, heating and ventilation be independently controlled by the users?
13.03
Are the lighting levels suitable for people with sensory disabilities and free from excessive glare and shadows?
13.04
Can the natural and artificial lighting be adjusted to suit the range of activities and tasks carried out?
13.05
Are the acoustics suitable for people with sensory disabilities and free from unwanted noise, echo and reverberations?
13.06
Are wall finishes non-reflective and free from confusing or distracting patterns?
13.07
Are floor surfaces easily negotiable by wheelchair users?
13.08
Is sufficient circulation space available for wheelchair users?
13.09
Is the space maintained clear of obstructions which would create hazards for people with visual impairments?
13.10
Are radiators of low surface temperature type to avoid burning when touched?
13.11
Are storage systems and equipment suitable for use from a seated position and by people with sensory disabilities?
13.12
Are telephones fitted with amplifiers and inductive couplers and are textphones available?
13.13
Are all areas where information is given or meetings held equipped with a suitable hearing enhancement system?
13.14
If areas are not fitted with a hearing enhancement system, is a portable hearing enhancement system available?
13.15
Is the hearing enhancement system regularly checked and maintained?
Total
Actual points
February 2000
Page 80
14
WARDS AND TREATMENT AREAS

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
14.01 Is the space function identifiable by visual and tactile information?
14.03 Are natural and artificial lighting levels locally controllable?
14.04 Are heating and ventilation levels locally controllable?
14.05 Is the space free from excessive noise, echo and reverberation?
14.06 Are floor, wall and ceiling surfaces free of confusing patterns and
reflections?
14.07 Are floor surfaces non slip, even when wet?
14.08 Are radiators of low surface temperature type to avoid burning when
touched?
14.09 Is there adequate circulation space for wheelchair users and
assistants? At least 1200mm width is desirable see diagram.
14.10 Are circulation spaces clearly defined and kept free of hazards and
obstructions for blind and partially sighted people?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 81
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
14.11 Is visual privacy possible using screens or curtains if required?
14.12 Are private rooms available if required?
14.13 Can the height of examination couches be adjusted?
14.14 Is there a choice of bed heights or can bed heights be adjusted?
14.15 Is there a choice of seating heights, with and without arms?
14.16 Are bedside switches and facilities easily identifiable, reachable and
usable by people with limited dexterity or with visual impairments?
14.17 Is assistive equipment such as trolley hoists and pressure sore mats
available if required?
14.18 Are suitable charging facilities available for powered wheelchairs
and other equipment if required?
14.19 Are any charging facilities for powered wheelchairs and other
equipment located in a secure fire resisting ventilated enclosure?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 82
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
14.20 Is there a trolley telephone accessible to disabled people and fitted
with a volume control and inductive coupler for deaf and hard of
hearing people.
14.21 Is a trolley textphone facility available for deaf and hard of hearing
people?
14.22 If a television is provided, does this have teletext subtitles for
deaf and hard of hearing people?
14.23 Are there personal hearing enhancement systems for linking into
the television or radio service, fitted with volume controls and
induction loops for deaf and hard of hearing people?
14.24 Is an accessible WC available within a total horizontal travel
distance of not more than 45 metres from any accessible point?
WC should generally comply with the criteria in the accessible WC
section of this Checklist
14.25 Is an accessible shower available within convenient distance?
Shower should generally comply with the criteria in the accessible
shower section of this Checklist.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 83
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
14.26 Is an accessible bathroom available within convenient distance?
Bathroom should generally comply with the criteria in the accessible
bathroom section of this Checklist.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 84
LOCATION
14.00
WARDS AND TREATMENT AREAS
14.01
Is the space function identifiable by visual and tactile information?
14.02
Are the lighting levels free from excessive glare and shadows?
14.03
Are natural and artificial lighting levels locally controllable?
14.04
Are heating and ventilation levels locally controllable?
14.05
Is the space free from excessive noise, echo and reverberation?
14.06
Are floor, wall and ceiling surfaces free of confusing patterns and reflections?
14.07
Are floor surfaces non slip, even when wet?
14.08
Are radiators of low surface temperature type?
14.09
Is there adequate circulation space for wheelchair users and assistants?
14.10
Are circulation spaces clearly defined and kept free of hazards and obstructions?
14.11
Is visual privacy possible using screens or curtains if required?
14.12
Are private rooms available if required?
14.13
Can the height of examination couches be adjusted?
14.14
Is there a choice of bed heights or can bed heights be adjusted?
14.15
Is there a choice of seating heights, with and without arms?
14.16
Are bedside switches and facilities easily identifiable, reachable and usable?
14.17
Is assistive equipment such as trolley hoists and pressure sore mats available if required?
14.18
Are suitable charging facilities available for powered wheelchairs and other equipment?
14.19
Are any charging facilities for powered wheelchairs and other equipment located in a suitable enclosure?
14.20
Is there an accessible trolley telephone fitted with a volume control and inductive coupler?
14.21
Is a trolley textphone facility available for deaf and hard of hearing people?
14.22
If a television is provided, does this have teletext subtitles for deaf and hard of hearing people?
14.23
Are there personal hearing enhancement systems for linking to the television or radio service?
14.24
Is an accessible WC available within convenient distance?
14.25
Is an accessible shower available within 45 metres distance?
14.26
Is an accessible bathroom available within convenient distance?
Total
Actual points
February 2000
Page 85
HBN 40
DIAG. 11
2000-2500
space for independent

wheelchair users to pass
end of bed in straight
movement
(see note 3)
1200
550 (450)
space for patient in wheelchair

frontal approach (1000) (where
feet can pass under bed)
space for
assisstant
550 (450)
space for
assisstant
800 (700)
space for patient
in wheelchair
lateral transfer
1600
space for assisted wheelchair turning
1500 independent users (see note 2)
bed width - varies

900-960
KF (without side rails)
access space for independent user and

space to make bed (for unimpeded activities
and for unrestricted assistance 1400
1200 (1000)
(see note 3)
Internal Spaces, Wards and Treatment Areas:

Bed, Various
Notes:
1350 (1300)
1000 (950)
space to allow
turning (see
note 2)
bed length (varies)

(extended KF bed)
clearance
100
1. Compressed height of mattress for

transfer by wheelchair users is critical and
should be equal to the effective seat height
of the wheelchair (i.e. 480 or up to 550 with a
100 deep cushion). Where the person
stands during transfer a compressed
mattress height of 500 is preferred.
2. If space for wheelchair turning is not
available to one side of the bed, then turning
All sizes in mm
space should be available nearby.

3. Space at foot of bed must be increased to
1400 to accommodate a 90 turn when only
(1000) is available at the side of the bed.
Similarly, where space at bottom of bed is
only (1000), space at side of bed should be
1400. Where space at side of bed is 1200,
space at foot of bed should be 1200.
February 2000
Page 86
15
CATERING AND REFRESHMENT AREAS

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
15.01 Is suitable access available to the full range of services offered?
15.02 Are all self-service counters accessible to wheelchair users?
15.03 Is at least half the area where seating is provided accessible
to wheelchair users?
15.04 Where the nature of the service varies and is divided into
different areas in the same or different storeys, is at least
half of each area accessible to wheelchair users?
15.05 In areas of fixed seating, is there space for wheelchair users to draw
up to a table or is some seating easily movable?
15.06 Are circulation routes between tables clear of obstructions and
clearly identifiable to blind and partially sighted people?
15.08 Are floor, wall and ceiling surfaces free of confusing patterns and
reflections?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 87
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
15.09 Are the acoustics suitable for people with sensory disabilities and
free from unwanted noise, echo and reverberations?
15.10 Are floor surfaces non slip even when wet?
when touched?
15.12 Are all automatic vending machine controls and dispenser points
located within a height zone of approximately 700-1400mm from
floor level?
15.13 Are all automatic vending machine controls and products
identifiable to blind and partially sighted people?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 88
E: Sanitary Facilities
Ambulant, standard and peninsular WC
layouts, changing cubicles, showers and
bathrooms
February 2000
Page 89
16
ACCESSIBLE WC - AMBULANT

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
16.01 Where WCs are provided in storeys accessed only by stairs
and inaccessible to wheelchair users, are there male and
female WCs for ambulant disabled people?
An ambulant persons WC is a standard sized WC compartment
fitted with grabrails for the use of people with mobility difficulties.
It is not suitable for wheelchair users see diagram.
16.02 Is the travel distance to a suitable WC for ambulant disabled
people no greater than that for non disabled people?
16.03 Is the door to the WC colour contrasted against its background?
16.04 Is the WC identifiable by a colour contrasted tactile symbol on the
door at approximately 150mm height?
16.05 Does the WC for ambulant disabled people have an outward
opening or sliding door?
16.06 If the WC door opens outwards directly into a corridor, is this
designed so as not to compromise means of escape or cause
a hazard to corridor uses?
WC door should be either set back from main line of travel,
fitted with guardrails or have space of at least the width of the
corridor between the arc of the door swing and any obstruction
opposite. Alternatively the door might be of sliding or folding type.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 90
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
16.07 Is the WC door of sliding type and easily operated?
Sliding doors may present operational and maintenance difficulties.
16.08 Is the WC door of bifold type and easily operated?
Folding doors may present operational and maintenance difficulties.
16.09 Are all door handles/controls and locks easily gripped and operated?
16.10 Can the door be opened from outside in emergency?
16.11 Is the floor slip resistant and colour contrasted from the walls?
16.12 Are all sanitary fittings and grabrails colour contrasted from their
background?
16.13 Is the size of the WC for ambulant disabled people at least
800mm wide and 1500mm long?
16.14 Is the top of the WC pan no lower than 450mm from floor level?
16.15 Does the WC for ambulant disabled people have suitable
support rails on both sides of the WC pan? See diagram.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 91
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
16.16 Is a suitable panic alarm provided and linked to a permanently
supervised point?
16.17 Is the alarm cord or switch colour contrasted red and reachable
from a sanding, seated or lying position?
16.18 If a urine specimen shelf or hatch is provided within the WC, is
this appropriately colour contrasted and located within a height
zone of 750mm 1200mm from floor level?
16.19 Are any radiators of low surface temperature type to avoid burning
when touched?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 92
B. REGS.
DIAG. 12
800
450
300
35mm dia
support rail
200
1500
Sanitary Facilities: Accessible WC - Ambulant
All sizes in mm
Notes:
1. Washbasin to be provided outwith the
cubicle; where provided within, additional
space will be required.
2. A siding door is an acceptable option.
February 2000
Page 93
HBN 40
DIAG. 13
1400
height of vertical grabrail
1000-1200 height of lever flush

handle (see note 2)
clearance
min 75
600 height of toilet

paper holder
turning space for

sanichair access
where door space is
at side of cubicle
1050
700
height of grabrail
450
height of WC seat
min width of
independent cubicle
800
550-600
1175
min. clear space
between grabrails
700
C
L
space for
grabrail 75
400
(325)
2200 (1950)
min grabrail
projection beyond
front edge of toilet
250
550-600
alternative
door position
900 (800)
700 (600)
space in
front of WC
space for
door
opening
inwards
space for
assisting
1200
600
(350)
Sanitary Facilities: Toilets 2

Use of WC and handrinse facilities with front access space for assistant
Notes:
1350 (1300)
1. This layout allows space for entry with a

child or bags etc. Where several unisex or
ambulant WCs are provided they should be
handed.
2. Flush handles below 1100 will obstruct
positioning of a sanitary chair over the WC.
3. Floors should be slip resistant and in
contrasting colour to the walls and WC.
Floors should not be shiny or cause
reflections or glare since this causes
confusion for people with sight impairments.
The colour or tone of the background should
All sizes in mm
allow grabrails and sanitary fittings to be
easily distinguished.
4. An alarm cord, reachable from the
toilet/basin and floor must be fitted.
5. Where assistance is minimal, the cubicle
width can be reduced to 1100.
6. Side access to the WC for the assistant is
generally preferred for semi-ambulant
people. See Toilets 3.
February 2000
Page 94
HBN 40
DIAG. 14
1400
1000-1200 height of lever flush

handle (see note 3)
clearance
min 75
600 height of toilet

paper holder
turning space for

sanichair access
where door space is
at side of cubicle
700
height of grabrail
450
height of WC seat
min width of
independent cubicle
800
1050
min width of
assisted cubicle
550-600
1300
clear space
between
grabrails
400
space for
assistant
(see note 2)
700
600
C
L
space for
grabrail 75
1100
550
Sanitary Facilities: Toilets 3

Use of WC and handrinse facilities with side access space for assistant
Notes:
1350 (1300)
1. This layout allows space for entry with a
child or bags etc. Where several unisex or
ambulant WCs are provided they should be

handed.
2. This allows side access when the hinged
grabrail is in the raised position.
3. Flush handles below 1100 will obstruct
positioning of a sanitary chair over the WC.
4. Floors should be slip resistant and in
February 2000
space above 600 from

floor level for personal
washing
250
alternative wall
position for basin at
side of WC
min grabrail
projection beyond
front edge of toilet
550-600
900 (800)
700 (600)
space in
front of WC
space for
door
opening
inwards
600
350
All sizes in mm
contrasting colour to the walls and WC.
Floors should not be shiny or cause
reflections or glare since this causes
confusion for people with sight impairments.
The colour or tone of the background should
allow grabrails and sanitary fittings to be
easily distinguished.
5. An alarm cord, reachable from the
toilet/basin and floor must be fitted.
Page 95
17
ACCESSIBLE WC STANDARD LAYOUT

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
17.01 Has a suitable independent standard accessible unisex WC
been provided within a total horizontal travel distance of not
more than 45 metres from any accessible point?
This is a WC compartment set out to permit manoeuvring and
independent or assisted transfer to the WC from one side by a
wheelchair user and incorporates a washbasin reachable from
a seated position on the WC see diagram.
17.02 Are sufficient accessible unisex WCs distributed throughout the
building?
17.03 If more than one wheelchair accessible WC is provided, are the
layouts handed to permit a choice of left or right hand transfer?
17.04 Is the route to the WC accessible to a wheelchair user and free
of steps, hazards and distractions?
17.05 Is the WC location clearly signed and identifiable by visual and
tactile information? See Signage Section 22.
17.06 Is the travel distance to the accessible WC no greater than that to
a WC for a non disabled person?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 96
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
17.07 Is there at least 1500mm x 1500mm space outside the accessible
WC compartment for manoeuvre and door opening?
17.09 Is the WC identifiable by a colour contrasted tactile symbol on the
door at approximately 1500mm height?
17.10 Does the door to the WC cubicle have a minimum 800mm
clear opening width?
17.11 Does the WC cubicle door slide or open outwards?
a hazard to corridor users?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 97
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
17.14 Is the WC door of bifold type and easily operated?
17.15 Can the WC door be opened from outside in emergency?
17.16 Are the WC door controls, lock and light switch easily reached
and operated?
background?
17.19 Is the compartment at least 2000mm x 1500mm to allow for
frontal, lateral, angled and rear transfer, both assisted and
unassisted?
17.20 Do the positions of the WC and basin comply with the diagram
of a wheelchair accessible WC shown at the end of this section?
17.21 Is the WC cistern flush located on the open transfer side of the WC
and not higher than 1000mm from the floor?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 98
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
17.22 Is the WC cistern flush of lever or pull ring type and easily operated?
17.23 Are suitable handrails provided and do their positions comply
with the diagram of a wheelchair accessible WC shown at the
end of this section?
17.24 Are both hand-washing and drying facilities within reach of
someone seated on WC?
17.25 Is the basin tap of lever type appropriate for use by a person with
limited dexterity, grip or strength?
17.26 Is the basin tap thermostatically regulated to avoid scalding?
Max. temperature should not exceed 43oC.
17.28 Is the transfer space to the side of the WC pan at least 700mm
clear of obstruction by radiators, ducted pipework and freestanding
items?
supervised point?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 99
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
from a standing, seated or lying position?
17.31 Is a full length mirror provided?
17.32 Is there a choice of coat hooks at approximately 1200mm height
for wheelchair users and 1700mm height for others?
17.33 Are all sanitary dispenser or vending machine controls and coin
slots located within a height zone of approximately 700 1400mm
from floor level?
17.34 Are all sanitary dispenser or vending machine controls and products
identifiable to blind and partially sighted people?
17.35 If a urine specimen shelf or hatch is provided within the WC, is
this appropriately colour contrasted and located within a height
zone of 750mm 1200mm from floor level?
17.36 Are all radiators of low surface temperature type to avoid burning
when touched?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 100
B. REGS.
DIAG. 15
450
750
300
650
hinged support rail
400
250
hinged
support
rail
800
clear
1500
CL
2000
Sanitary Facilities: Accessible WC - Standard Layout
All sizes in mm
Notes:
1. Door width is clear opening width.
2. A sliding door is an acceptable option.
February 2000
Page 101
HBN 40
DIAG. 16
1900
1550
1400
1000-1200 height of lever flush handle

950
1000
900
750
450
height of grabrail for

standing use
height of grabrail for seated
use and basin rim height
height of WC seat
300
750 (700)
projection of WC
cubicle width
1900 (1750)
alternative parking for wheelchair

transfer or space for assistant
100 rail and clearance
900 (700)
500 (550)
front edge of WC
to grabrail
2100
cubicle depth if door
opens outwards
clear space
clearance between
for rail
grabrails
2100
cubicle depth if door
opens outwards
00
100 to be added if
door opens inward
15
1000 door set
250
750
750 (700)
700
C
L
900 (800)
1200
space in
front of toilet
900 (800)
space for
attendant in
front of
wheelchair
1200
space for
wheelchair user
400
space for frontal

approach to WC by
inependent
wheelchair user
100 to be
added if
door opens
inwards
300 (200) to be added

if door opens inwards
1000 door set

800 (600)
clearance for
access from wheelchair
methods of transfer to be accommodated
side and side

oblique
forward
through back of
wheelchair
oblique
assisted frontal
All sizes in mm
Sanitary Facilities: Toilets 4: Independent wheelchair users

Notes:
1350 (1300)
a. See notes for Toilets 4, 5 and 6 on

pages following Diagram 18.

February 2000
Page 102
HBN 40
DIAG. 17
1400
1000-1200 height of lever flush handle

height of 1000
dispensers
for paper
towels, soap
and toilet roll
holder
950
750
450

standing use
height of WC seat
1900 (1750)
750 (700)
projection of WC
space at side of WC for

sideways or side oblique transfer
by independent wheelchair users
or space for assistant
900 (800)
500 (550)
front edge of WC
to grabrail
clearance clear space between

for rail
grabrails (see note 20)
d
in
ep
ac
1600
en
g
00 nin
15 tur
nt
de
sp
space for access / withdrawal

for frontal transfer by assisted
wheelchair users
250
750
750 (700)
700
C
L
900 (800)
1200
space in
front of toilet
800 (600)
space for
wheelchair user
space for
attendant in
front of
wheelchair
space for frontal

approach to WC by
independent wheelchair
user assuming adequate
manoeuvring space is
available elsewhere in
the room
1200
400
methods of transfer to be accommodated
side and side

oblique
forward
through back of
wheelchair
oblique
assisted frontal
Sanitary Facilities:
Toilets 5: Independent and assisted wheelchair users
Notes:
1350 (1300)
All sizes in mm

pages following Diagram 18.

February 2000
Page 103
18
ACCESSIBLE WC PENINSULAR LAYOUT

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
18.01 Has a suitable peninsular accessible unisex WC been provided?
A peninsular WC compartment is set out to permit manoeuvring
and independent or assisted transfer to the WC from either side
by a wheelchair user. The washbasin is not reachable from a
seated position on the WC see diagram.
18.02 Is the route to the WC accessible to a wheelchair user and free
of steps, hazards and restriction?
18.03 Is the WC location clearly signed and identifiable by visual and
tactile information?
18.04 Is the travel distance to the WC no greater than that for a non
disabled person?
18.05 Is there at least 1500mm x 1500mm space outside the accessible
WC compartment for manoeuvre and door opening?
18.07 Is the WC identifiable by a colour contrasted tactile symbol on
the door at approximately 1500mm height?
18.08 Does the door to the WC cubicle have a minimum 800mm clear
opening width?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 104
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
18.09 Does the WC cubicle door open outwards?
18.12 Is the WC door of bifold and easily operated?
18.13 Can the WC door be opened from outside in emergency?
18.14 Are the WC door handles, lock and light switch easily reached and
operated?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 105
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
background?
18.17 Is the compartment at least 2400mm x 2300mm to allow for frontal
lateral, angled and rear assisted and unassisted transfer?
18.18 Do the positions of the WC and basin comply with the diagram of a
peninsular accessible WC shown below?
18.19 Is the WC cistern flush located on the open transfer side of the WC
and not higher than 1000mm from the floor?
18.20 Is the WC cistern flush of lever or pull ring type and easily operated?
18.21 Are hand washing and drying facilities accessible to a wheelchair
user?
18.22 Are suitable handrails provided and do their positions comply with
the diagram of a peninsular accessible WC shown below?
18.23 Is the basin tap of lever type appropriate for use by a person with
limited dexterity, grip or strength?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 106
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
18.24 Is the basin tap thermostatically regulated to avoid scalding?
o
Max. temperature should not exceed 43 C.
18.26 Is the transfer space to the side of the WC pan at least 800mm
clear of obstruction by radiators, ducted pipework and freestanding
items?
supervised point?
from a standing, seated or lying position?
18.30 Is a full length mirror provided?
18.31 Are any sanitary dispenser or vending machine controls and coin
slots located within a height zone of approximately 700mm - 1400mm
from floor level?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 107
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
18.32 Are any sanitary dispenser or vending machine controls and
products identifiable to blind and partially sighted people?
18.33 If a urine specimen shelf or hatch is provided within the WC, is this
appropriately colour contrasted and located within a height zone
of 750mm 1200mm from floor level?
18.34 Are any radiators of low surface temperature type to avoid burning
when touched?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 108
HBN 40
DIAG. 18
1400
950

standing use
750
450
750 (700)
projection of WC
2300 (2000)
C
L
1150 (1000)
space to assist patient
500 (550)
front edge of WC
to grabrail
1150 (1000)
900
100
700
rail and clearance
350
100
WC projection
to allow lateral
250 transfer
750 (700)
alternative
curtain
positions
alternative
basin position
grabrail
(reduced length)
clearance for access
to door handles by
independent
wheelchair users
900 door set

250
300
800
0)
r
40
ai l
1
g
h
in
00 l c a 0 ( t
16 h e e r a w 150 d e n turn
w thd
e n air
ed / wi
e p lch
t
d
s
i n hee
si s
as ces
w
ac
200
reduced space for

alternative basin position
100 (handrinse)
300 (medium)
rail and clearance

100
35
grabrail length
1000
clear space
between
grabrails
700
cubicle depth
2400
height of WC seat
clearance
200
addiional space
for alternative
basin position
200 (handrinse)
400 (medium)
800
clearance for
access from
wheelchair
Sanitary Facilities: Toilets 6:

Independent and dual assissted wheelchair users
Notes:
1350 (1300)
All sizes in mm

following pages.

February 2000
Page 109
Sanitary Facilities: Toilets 4, 5 and 6

1. The space/spaces required vary depending upon the range of users and components to be
accommodated. The space allowed for activities should take into account the varying degrees of assistance
that may be required, and the fact that some users may be relatively inexperienced at manoeuvring a
wheelchair or using any other aid to mobility.
2. Disabled users of the building (whether patients, visitors or staff) should not have to travel further, or
make more effort than other users, to use a toilet. Consideration should be given to whether the overall
toilet provision is adequate for the needs of particular ethnic groups if it is likely that there will be a significant
number of users from any such group.
3. Accessible toilet facilities must be reached along fully accessible routes, and clearly indicated.
4. Toilet facilities should not be located within lobby areas if at all possible, since their doors and confined
spaces can be difficult for people with problems of mobility and hand function, and also for those who use
wheelchairs, to negotiate. However, privacy should always be maintained; toilet doors should therefore not
open directly off busy circulation spaces, or the layout should be such that the open door does not give a
view of the interior of the toilet. In assisted WCs where this is not possible, a curtain should be provided to
ensure that the patient using the toilet cannot be seen from the adjacent corridor or activity space.
5. Toilet facilities for wheelchair users can be provided either on a unisex or integral basis. A unisex
facility is approached separately from other sanitary accommodation; it has practical advantages, in that it is
more easily identified, it permits assistance by a companion of either sex, and it can be used by others who
require more space (such as those with a pushchair, child or guide dog). It is less demanding of space than
an integral toilet facility, which effectively has to be duplicated in order to achieve the same level of
provision for both sexes. (An integral facility is contained within each of the separate provisions for male
and female users, thus precluding assistance from a companion of the opposite sex.)
6. Whether toilet compartments for wheelchair users are designed on a unisex or integral basis, they
should be similar in layout and content, and should satisfy the following needs: to achieve necessary
wheelchair manoeuvre; to allow for frontal, lateral, diagonal and backward transfer onto (and off) the toilet; to
provide facilities for hand washing and hand drying within reach of the toilet, prior to transfer back onto the
wheelchair; and to have sufficient space to allow a helper to assist in the transfer. Where more than one
type of toilet is made available, it is suggested that mirrored unisex facilities would best meet the needs of
individual preferences.
7. All fittings (toilet, basin, etc) should be securely fixed, since people may need to lean on them or grip
them for support.
Toilet
8. The shape of the toilet pan and bowl is important. Many wheelchair users and ambulant disabled people
need to cleanse themselves while still sitting on the toilet, so it is useful if the pan offers a wide opening, and
the water level should not be less than 200mm from the rim. The toilet pan should be made of tough
material, the pan fixing must be strong, and effective seat stabilisers are important. It is especially important
to avoid any sharp edges and rough surfaces.
9. Some users will only be able to use one hand, so that toilet-paper dispenser must be within easy reach
and should dispense individual sheets or otherwise incorporate a locking device which allows sheets to be
easily torn off with one hand.
10. Provision of a toilet lid will prevent use of the horizontal rail behind the pan.
11. A black or dark toilet seat should be fitted to a white ceramic WC unit, thus providing good colour
contrast and helping the intended user to locate the facility.
February 2000
Page 110
Basin
12. The basin and soap dispenser should be positioned so that they can be reached while sitting on the
toilet, and should be contrasted in colour and tone with the surface to which they are fixed. This will assist
the visually impaired and will allow hands and other parts of the body to be washed before transferring back
onto the wheelchair (thus avoiding the possibility of staining clothes or the wheelchair).
13. Hand rinse facilities vary from 350mm to 450mm in size. Basins which project for less than 300mm tend
to be very unsatisfactory in that they do not adequately contain splashing, whereas basins over 350mm
deep require an excessive sideways reach from the WC seat to access taps etc. Recessed basins are
generally not favoured, because they tend to be too shallow and restrict access for and movement of
hands by some disabled users.
14. To facilitate good access to the basin, the centre line of the bowl should not be forward of the front edge
of the WC seat. Where the taps are positioned on the far side of the basin, the preferred location of the
basin is set back between 200mm and 250mm from the front edge of the WC.
15. The towel dispenser must be within easy reach, to allow users to dry themselves.
16. Fittings such as toilet flush and taps should be equipped with lever handles, since these do not require
the ability to grip and can even be operated using an elbow.
Bins
17. Some people may wear bags which need to be emptied into the toilet, or they may wear disposable
colostomy/ileostomy bags or incontinence pads. A suitable sealed bin should be provided for the disposal of
these; this must be positioned within easy reach of the toilet and where it does not obstruct circulation
space.
18. A bin will also be required if paper towels are provided; paper or cloth towels (which do not require
strength to pull) are preferred to hand dryers, which have limited application for people with disabilities.
Rails
19. Rails are used to provide support and stability when transferring, sitting down and standing up, and
while adjusting clothing. The hinged fold-down rail is used in combination with a fixed wall rail by relatively
independent users to provide support when lowering themselves onto the seat. Vertical rails are used for
pulling back up to a standing position, and they are also important for a male standing to urinate when sticks
and crutches have been discarded.
20. Grabrails must be positioned symmetrically over the toilet, and should be contrasting in colour and tone
with the surface to which they are fixed. The 700mm dimension allows access to the toilet by patients on
wheeled sanitary chairs; this dimension must not be exceeded, since it will significantly reduce the
effectiveness of the handrails as an aid to users.
Help call facility
21. An alarm cord, reachable from the toilet/basin area and the floor, must be fitted; it should be
differentiated, both in colour/tone and diameter, from the light pull cord.
Floor and wall surfaces
22. Good lighting and colour contrasting between floors and walls, and also between fixtures, walls and
fittings such as toilet seats, enable those with impaired sight to use the facilities more easily and safely.
23. The floor must be non-slip, even when wet.
Doors
24. The leading edge of the door should be in the middle of the room, not the corner. The door should open
out, but if inward opening is unavoidable the room depth must be increased to clear the door swing. It must
be possible to open the door outwards in an emergency.
February 2000
Page 111
Minimum requirements
25. To comply with statutory requirements, a WC must have as minimum provision the dimensions,
equipment and fittings shown in the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990.
February 2000
Page 112
19
CHANGING FACILITIES - CUBICLE

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
19.01 Is a wheelchair accessible changing cubicle provided?
At least 1 in 20 or part thereof.
19.02 Is the cubicle clearly signed and identifiable by visual and tactile
information?
19.03 If a door is fitted to the cubicle, does this open outwards?
19.04 Can the cubicle door be opened from outside in emergency?
19.05 Are the door controls, lock and light switch easily reached and
operated?
19.06 Does the cubicle comply with the size and layout shown in
the diagram below?
19.08 Are all fittings and grabrails colour contrasted from their background?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 113
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
supervised point?
from a standing, seated or lying position on the floor?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 114
B.REGS.
DIAG. 19
1500
600 mm long
grabrail
Hinged support rail
1600
Tip-up
seat
Curtain
1200
Sanitary Facilities: Changing Cubicle
All sizes in mm
February 2000
Page 115
20
ACCESSIBLE SHOWER

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
20.01 Is a suitable accessible shower compartment provided?
20.02Is the shower compartment clearly signed and identifiable by
visual and tactile information?
20.03 If a door is fitted to the shower compartment, does this open
outwards?
20.04 If the shower compartment door opens outwards directly into a
corridor, is this designed so as not to compromise means of
escape or cause a hazard to corridor users?
Shower compartment door should be either set back from main
line of travel, fitted with guardrails or have space of at least the
width of the corridor between the arc of the door swing and any
obstruction opposite. Alternatively the door might be of sliding
or folding type.
20.05 Is the shower compartment door of sliding type and easily operated?
20.06 Is the shower compartment door of bifold type and easily operated?
background?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 116
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
20.08 Does the shower compartment generally comply with the size
and the layout of the diagrams?
20.09 Is the shower compartment at least 1200mm wide by 1100mm
deep?
20.10 Is there at least 1600mm x 1500mm unobstructed manoeuvring
space in front of the shower compartment?
20.11 Is the shower head at a height which can be varied between
1050mm and 1950mm above floor level?
20.12 Are the shower controls at a height of between 1100mm and 1350mm
above floor level?
20.13 Are the shower controls of lever type and easily operated by a
person with limited dexterity.
20.14 Are the shower controls thermostatically regulated to avoid scalding?
Max. temperature should not exceed 43oC.
20.15 Have a tip-up seat and suitable handrails been provided in
accordance with the diagram below?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 117
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
supervised point?
from a standing, seated or lying position on the floor?
20.19 Is the temperature and ventilation locally controllable to suite
user needs? (21o-22oC desirable)
20.20 Is the shower compartment free of hazardous items and equipment
which should be stored elsewhere?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 118
DIAG. 20
900-950
grabrails for
standing use by
semi-ambulant
patients
arm rest /
support
rail height
750
handspray
brackets or
support rail
range for
adjustment
for standing
or seated use
seat width
see note 2
500
450
seat height
see note 3
900
HBN 40
thermostatic
control valve (for
operation inside
or outside the
1300 shower area
1100-1350
1000 nurse call

standing use
900-950
850 nurse call
grabrails and
seated use
towel rail
100
1950
1600
dry zone space for attendant to
dry and dress semi-ambulant
patient. 1950 is required to dry
and generally attend to patient
in wheelchair (see note 5)
1100
wet zone shower cubicle
to accommodate arm
movement by patient
or attendant
50-100 nurse call

use in the
event of a
fall
space for arm movements when

drying and dressing whilst seated
CL
325
1800
space required to assist patient in
shower chair within the curtained wet
zone (this space will also accommodate
wheelchair patients using extended leg
rests where assistance is given from
outside the cubicle wet zone shown)
thermostatic
tip-up seat control valve
200-300
500
position of
space for side
water
transfer from
min nurse call from wall
wheelchair
100-150
550
600
850 (800)
700
space at side of WC for

sideways or side oblique transfer
by independent wheelchair users
or space for assistant
800
clear space
Clearance
between grabrails for rail
1100
nt
00 de ce
5
n
1 e pa
p s
de g
in rnin
tu
250
750 (700)
600
1100
space for wheelchair
parking (see note 5)
4000
Sanitary Facilities: Shower 1

Facilities for patients, who require assistance, to shower and use WC and wash basin
Notes:
1350 (1300)
1. The flexible hose outlet should be

positioned so as not to impede clear access
to the control valve.
2. Seated patients should preferably have
All sizes in mm
3. A higher seat height of 500 is preferred

where the facility is frequently used by
wheelchair patients who normally use 50mm
(or deeper) seat cushions.
5. Where the space allowed for

drying/dressing is the minimum
recommended (i.e. 1600 x 1500), and no
provision is made for a WC with associated
space, additional space should be provided
either inside the cubicle or conveniently
outside the room to park the transporting
wheelchair.
4. The position of the user space for

drying/dressing (dry zone) can be varied in
relation to the shower cubicle (wet zone)
provided that the individual activity
requirements (patient transfer, wheelchair
turning, drying and dressing) are fully
maintained.
6. It is preferable that whenever possible and

accessible a continuous handrail support
system surrounding the ambulant user areas
be available to semi-ambulant patients. This
will not always be possible, i.e. immediately
behind the tip-up seat where a grabrail would
impede use of the seat.
support rails (tip-up type) usable from tip-up

seat. The rails/rests should be 300 above
the supporting seat height.
February 2000
Page 119
HBN 40
DIAG. 21
1600
2700
support for
backrest where
required
1150
space for side transfer
700
500
control handspray
valve
1150
alternative
door location
preferred
door location
400-500
600 400
900
1500
700
1600
1000
WET
AREA
1050
1100
1200
1000
space for access to and
withdrawal from basin by
independent wheelchair
user (see note 2)
ALTERNATIVE
LAYOUT
space required
to assist
patient in
shower chair
from within
curtained area
WET
AREA
1500
550
space for
personal
washing
nurse
call
min. pojection
for wheelchair
access in side
transfer
1100
clearance for
frontal approach
by independent
wheelchair users
500
200-300
backrest
clear to
backrest
space for showering

(seated patient)
1100
1550
450
1550
Sanitary Facilities: Shower 2
Facilities for patients who require assistance, who may require the use of a wheelchair or
sanitary chair, to shower, and to use the WC and wash basin
Notes:
egress by assisting staff.
1350 (1300)
1. To safeguard the privacy of patients when
changing or using the shower, it is desirable
that access doors be adequately screened
and that these should not impede access or
2. A space of 1200 is preferable to

accommodate assisted wheelchair
manoeuvres in front of basin.
3. The nurse call should be operable at 900
- 1000 above floor level (seated use) and at
50 - 100 above floor level for patients who
have fallen.
February 2000
All sizes in mm
4. Inward opening doors (in unscreened

positions) are possible but cannot be
recommended as wheelchair movement
becomes restricted; also door swing may be
obstructed by patient using the basin or WC
preventing entry by staff. Therefore, if an
inward opening door is proposed it must be
possible to open it outwards in an
emergency.
Page 120
21
ACCESSIBLE BATHROOM

Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
21.01 Is a suitable accessible bathroom provided?
Minimum plan dimensions 2400 x 2000mm and containing a bath
or a shower accessible to disabled people.
21.02Is the bathroom clearly signed and identifiable by visual and
tactile information?
21.03 Does the bathroom door slide or open outwards?
21.04 If the bathroom door opens outwards directly into a corridor, is
this designed so as not to compromise means of escape or cause
Bathroom door should be either set back from main line of travel,
21.05 Is the shower compartment door of sliding type and easily operated?
21.06 Is the shower compartment door of bifold type and easily operated?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 121
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
background?
21.09 Is a WC provided within the bathroom?
21.10 Is there a washbasin accessible to a wheelchair user and which
can be reached from a seated position?
21.11 Is there at least 400mm transfer space at the head of the bath?
21.12 Is the bottom of the bath slip resistant?
21.13 Are the bath and basin taps of lever type suitable for use by a
person with limited dexterity?
21.14 Are the bath and basin taps thermostatically regulated to avoid
scalding? Max. temperature should not exceed 43o.
21.15 Is there space to manoeuvre a bath hoist if required?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 122
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
supervised point?
from the bath and from a sanding, seated or lying position on
the floor?
21.19 Is the temperature and ventilation locally controllable to suit
users needs? (21o-22oC desirable.)
21.20 Is the bathroom free of hazardous items and equipment which
should be stored elsewhere?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 123
HBN 40
DIAG. 22
space for assistant

(space also to
allow wheelchair
transfer)
600
400
400
CL
700
min. clear
space
between
grabrails
600
00
(350)
15
towel rail
550
space to dress
using mirror
1100
2900
transfer seat
1100
800
(see note 1)
grabrails (see note 5)
min. space for assisting with

dressing and undressing
1700-1900
900
space to
manoeuvre
sanichair or
wheelchair
300
150 space
for curtain
1000 door set
300
250 min. grabrail

projection
beyond front
edge of toilet
750 (700)
3000
Sanitary Facilities: Bathroom 1: with WC and personal washing facilities

for patients who may require some assistance to have a bath, use WC or wash basin
Notes:
1350 (1300)
1. An 800 width bath is preferred, as a 700

bath is restrictive for larger adults.
2. A fixed height bath with a rim height of
475 should suit most, though not all, users.
4. Grabrails are required to facilitate the

bather transferring into and out of the bath.
For a bath which abuts on to a wall these
need to be at a height and angle to facilitate
this.
5. People who are elderly or incapacitated
tend to manoeuvre on to their knees before
standing up in the bath; the width of the bath
and the height and angle of the grabrails
need to reflect this. (See grabrail data sheet
in HBN 40 Volume 2.)
All sizes in mm
space for a patient to sit at the basin and for
staff to manoeuvre around and open the
door without knocking into the patient.
9. A soap dispenser is required fixed just
above the basin.
10. A mirror is required placed above the
basin.
11. A shelf is required at the side of the
basin, at basin height, on which to put wash
bags, a change of clothes, etc.
6. The bottom of the bath must be non-slip.

3. A fixed height bath should have a transfer
area at the end opposite the taps. This
allows a person to slide across from a chair
or wheelchair and transfer down into the bath
from a sitting position.
12. A towel rail is required close to the basin.

7. Suitably located shelves are required for
the storage of treatment and bath
preparations and clothing.
8. Patients may sit at the basin to have their
hair shampooed, thus there needs to be
February 2000
13. To maintain the privacy of patients when

in the bath, it is desirable that access doors
be screened and that these should not
impede access by assisting staff.
Page 124
HBN 40
DIAG. 23
Plan A
Plan B
I
1500
400
I(R)
2000
I(R)
1500
I(R)
900
1500
900
400
600
1500
2100
2100
700
(if lateral approach
to basin is required
by wheelchair users
800
800
800
Plan C
1500
I(R)
I(R)
400
1500
NOTES
See also Door screen arrangements
data sheet in HBN 40 Volume 2
900
Key
2100
= preferred position of access door(s)

= alternative position of access door(s)
I
= inward opening doors
I(R) = inward opening doors (recessed)

(all 1500 doorsets)
800
Sanitary Facilities: Bathroom 2: Assisted with WC and personal washing

facilities for bathing, drying and dressing patient, including use of patient hoists and assisted WC and basin.
Notes:
All sizes in mm
1. See notes Bathroom 2, on separate page.
1350 (1300)
February 2000
Page 125
Sanitary Facilities: Bathroom 2

1. Assisted bathrooms should have adequate space for staff to carry out the tasks of assisting the patient to
wash and bathe efficiently and safely.
2. The position of the door is important to facilitate easy entry with a hoist or wheelchair.
3. There should be adequate floor space to manoeuvre a hoist to and around the toilet, the basin and the
bath.
4. It is strongly recommended that a variable height bath is provided. This can be lowered to allow more
independent patients to get in and out themselves with minimal assistance and can be raised to assist staff
bathing less able patients. Alternatively a bath with a built-in seat which can be raised, lowered and rotated
out of the bath could be provided.
5. The bath and the hoists should be compatible.
6. The bottom of the bath must be non-slip.
7. Suitably located shelves are required for the storage of treatment and bath preparations and clothing.
8. Patients may sit at the basin to have their hair shampooed, thus there needs to be space for a patient to
sit at the basin and for staff to manoeuvre around and open the door without knocking into the patient.
9. A soap dispenser is required fixed just above the basin.
10. A mirror is required placed above the basin.
11. A shelf is required at the side of the basin, at basin height, on which to put wash bags, a change of
clothes, etc.
12. A towel rail is required close to the basin.
13. Adequate space should be allowed at the side of the toilet to enable staff to assist the patient.
14. A shelf should be provided above the toilet on which to store glove wipes and cream.
15. The toilet paper should be within easy reach of the person on the toilet.
16. The basin should be within easy reach of the patient on the toilet in case they are wheelchair users who
may wish to wash their hands before transferring back to the wheelchair.
February 2000
Page 126
F: Signage and
Information
February 2000
Page 127
22
SIGNAGE
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
22.01 Are entry to the site and parking areas clearly identified?
22.02 Are accessible entry and exit points to the building clearly identified?
22.03 Are external and internal circulation routes clearly identified?
22.04 Are rooms and spaces clearly identified by visual and tactile
means? Key spaces such as WCs should be identified by visual
and tactile signage at approximately 1500mm height?
22.05 Is signage current, consistent and relevant throughout?
22.06 Is all signage clear, legible and obvious, in lower case letters
clearly contrasted against background?
Simple sans-serif text in lower case, preceded by capital letters
for beginnings of sentences or proper nouns, is easier to identify by
shape. Text should be contrasted against sign and sign itself
contrasted against background. Capitals and numerals should
be approximately 33% taller than lower case text.
22.07 Are direction or information signs at consistent heights?
Signage should be located where visitors would expect to see it.
Approximate comfortable heights for viewing signs are 12000 1700mm for standing and 750 1350mm for seated or
wheelchair users.
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 128
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
22.08 Is all signage kept simple with approved pictorial symbols where
appropriate?
Symbols if used should be universal and easy to understand.
22.09 Is signage tactile?
Raised embossed letters or symbols should be used at least 1-1.5mm
proud of the surface with slightly rounded edges (a half-rounded
section is not effective). Minimum recommended character height
15mm, max. 60mm.
22.10 Is all signage non-reflective and free from glare?
22.11 Is all signage unobstructed and clearly visible from both a standing
and seated position?
22.12 Are spaces in front of tactile signs kept free of obstructions?
Unobstructed approach to within 500mm of the sign recommended.
22.13 Is the space around signs kept free of posters or confusing
decorative motifs?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 129
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
22.14 Is display or take-away information within easy reach of all users?
Recommended height zone 750mm 1350mm.
22.15 Is written information available in alternative formats as set out in
the Customer Care section of this Checklist?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 130
G: Evacuation and
Management
Means of escape and safety management
February 2000
Page 131
23
MEANS OF ESCAPE
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
23.01 Is the audible emergency alarm system supplemented by a visual
alert or tactile pager system for deaf and hard of hearing people?
In locations particularly where deaf people are likely to be on their
own, visual or tactile alerting systems are recommended.
23.02 Are ground floor emergency exit routes level and accessible to all,
including wheelchair users?
23.03 Are accessible fire exit routes indicated with a fire exit sign
incorporating a wheelchair symbol?
23.04 Is phased horizontal evacuation possible from one fire protected
area to another on the same floor?
Phased horizontal evacuation is generally the first tactic to be
adopted, with vertical evacuation as a last resort.
23.05 Is vertical escape from upper or basement floors possible using
a fire protected lift with an independent power supply?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 132
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
23.06 Are safe refuge areas available on every escape staircase
landing and within the escape stair enclosure or in protected
lobbies?
A safe refuge is a designated space not less than 700mm x 1200mm
with at least 30 mins fire resistance where a disabled person may
wait until assistance is available to evacuate the building. (See
BS 5588 Part 8). Note: More than one space for a wheelchair
may be necessary subject to an assessment of need.
Note: If the building is designed to SHTM 81, safe refuges are not
required.
23.07 Do safe refuge areas have communication facilities located at
between 900mm and 1200mm height and linked to a supervised
control point?
23.08 Do safe refuge areas have evacuation procedure notices clearly
posted?
23.09 Are the stairs wide enough to permit mattress evacuation?
23.10 Is a personal emergency egress plan available for disabled members
of staff?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
Page 133
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
23.11 Is there an overall escape strategy for visitors who may need
assistance and are staff familiar with appropriate methods of
establishing how disabled people prefer to be assisted?
23.12 Are emergency exit routes checked regularly to ensure that doors
are unlocked and that there are no obstacles or combustible
materials blocking egress?
23.13 Are the general escape strategy for visitors and the personal
emergency egress plans for staff monitored and reviewed on
a regular basis?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
TOTAL POINTS FOR

THIS SECTION
Page 134
H: Customer Care
This section is separate from the other parts of
the Checklist but should be considered in
relation to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995
Note: This section is not scorable under the points system
February 2000
Page 135
24
CUSTOMER CARE
Y
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
24.01 Is there a clearly stated disability equality policy?
24.02 Is there a publicised procedure to enable disabled patients to specify
their requirements in the pre-admissions process, at reception or in
an emergency?
24.03 Is there a procedure for patients to consent to their case files being
flagged to indicate that they have a disability
24.04 Is written information available in clear large text, simple language
and with illustrations where necessary?
24.05 Is written information available on audio cassette, in large text or in
Braille for blind and partially sighted people and is this fully publicised?
24.06 Is there an established and publicised policy for communicating with
disabled people and identifying people with hidden disabilities?
24.07 Can interpreters, including sign language interpreters, facilitators and
advocates, be made available when required and is this fully publicised?
24.08 Is there a procedure for extending appointment duration to allow for
the extra time needed for people with communication difficulties?
24.09 Is there a textphone facility for deaf and hard of hearing people and is
this fully publicised with a dedicated phone number?
February 2000
Page 136
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
24.10 Are the healthcare premises registered with Typetalk Relay service for
deaf and hard of hearing people and are staff familiar with using Typetalk?
24.11 Can necessary equipment for a disabled person be obtained quickly on

request?
24.12 Are disabled patients allowed to bring their own support equipment into
the healthcare premises where necessary?
24.13 Are there arrangements for carrying personal support equipment into
ambulances either with the disabled person or by other suitable means?
24.14 Are appropriate discharge monitoring procedures in place to ensure the
well being of disabled patients when they leave?
24.15 Is staff training given and are appropriate disability organisations consulted
in the delivery of Disability Equality and Deaf Awareness training, using
approved trainers?
24.16 Is there a disability advisory group which includes disabled people and
is consulted when implementing changes to the environment practices
procedures?
24.17 Are access issues audited and reviewed on a regular basis?
24.18 Are access issues incorporated into the overall development plan of the
healthcare premises?
February 2000
Page 137
I: Implementation
Implementation considerations
Note: This section is not scorable under the points system
February 2000
Page 138
25
IMPLEMENTATION CONSIDERATIONS
Y
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
25.01 Is the intended use of the building long term?
25.02 Is the intended use of the building short term?
25.03 Is the function of the building likely to change in the near future?
25.04 Is any change in the function likely to affect access requirements?
25.05 Are there any administrative or departmental changes planned?
25.06 Will administrative or departmental changes affect the access requirements?
25.07 Have access requirements been appropriately agreed and prioritised?
25.08 Can access requirements be met without altering the building, for example
by reorganising operational and management practices?
25.09 Are the access needs of staff the same as for visitors?
25.10 Is the building listed or of special architectural merit?
25.11 Have the relevant authorities been contacted regarding access proposals?
25.12 Have the local authority access officer and access group been consulted
regarding access proposals?
25.13 Is the building leased?
February 2000
Page 139
N/A
COMMENTS
LOCATION: .
25.14 Has the landlord been consulted regarding access proposals?
25.15 Are other alterations or refurbishment works planned for this building?
25.16 Can access recommendations be incorporated with other projected
alteration works?
25.17 Is the nature of the building such that disposal and relocation should be
considered?
February 2000
Page 140
J: Appendices
February 2000
Page 141
ACCESS ACTION SUMMARY

EXTERNAL APPROACH
APPENDIX A
SHEET 1 of 6
PRIORITY
Approach Routes
Car Parking
Set Down
Ramps
Steps
Briefly list the main points requiring action from each section. Continue on back of sheet if necessary.
February 2000
Page 142

ENTRANCE AND RECEPTION
APPENDIX A
SHEET 2 of 6
PRIORITY
Entrance Doors
Entrance Lobbies
Reception Areas
February 2000
Page 143

HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL CIRCULATION
APPENDIX A
SHEET 3 of 6
PRIORITY
Corridors
Internal Lobbies
Internal Ramps
Internal Stairs
Lifts
February 2000
Page 144

INTERNAL SPACES
APPENDIX A
SHEET 4 of 6
PRIORITY
Internal Doors
Internal Spaces
Wards and Treatment Areas
Catering and Refreshment Areas
February 2000
Page 145

SANITARY FACILITIES
APPENDIX A
SHEET 5 of 6
PRIORITY
Accessible WCs
Changing Facilities
Accessible Showers
Accessible Bathrooms
February 2000
Page 146

EVACUATION, MANAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION
APPENDIX A
SHEET 6 of 6
PRIORITY
Signage
Means of Escape
Customer Care
Implementation
February 2000
Page 147
POINTS SCORING SYSTEM
APPENDIX B
The points scoring system is optional and is suggested as a guide in two ways:
1.
To identify which parts of the premises require access improvements.
2.
To prioritise work that needs to be carried out if a range of buildings are being
audited.
This should assist identification of premises requiring access action plans, or relocation of
services, depending on the suitability of the premises for adaptation.
Some value judgements will be necessary relative to the long-term use of the premises
and potential changes of use. Completing Section 25 of the audit will facilitate this
evaluation.
The points scoring system is set out to identify two sets of access considerations.
1.
Building Regulations baseline standards which are mandatory for newly erected,
substantially reconstructed buildings where there is also a change of use, and
extensions which include a ground storey.
2.
Desirable good practice access standards consistent with the spirit of the Disability
Discrimination Act 1995.
On the Checklist forms there are two columns of Yes and No tick boxes. The shaded
column is for Building Regulations questions, the unshaded column for Non Building
Regulations questions.
The N/A column is for ticking when the question does not apply or the element does not
exist in that particular building.
The suggested method of using the points scoring system is as follows:
A Step 1
1.
Tick each question on the form with a Yes, No or N/A. Do not leave any questions
uncompleted.
2.
Award one point for each Yes box ticked in both the shaded Building Regulations
and unshaded Non Building Regulations column and total these in the actual
points summary boxes at the bottom of each sheet.
3.
Bring forward the totals to the actual points summary boxes at the top of the
following sheet and add the totals to the total points for this section summary
boxes at the end of each section.
February 2000
Page 148
B Step 2
4.
Establish the theoretical maximum possible number of points achievable for the
Building Regulations shaded column and the Non Building Regulations unshaded
column by totalling all the Yes boxes in each column except where N/A has
been ticked.
5.
Enter these figures in the maximum possible points boxes at the foot of each
question sheet, bring forward and total in the same way as for the actual points
described above.
6.
Repeat this for each separate section of the Checklist.
C Step 3
7.
On completion of all relevant sections of the Checklist, summarise the total Building
Regulations and Non Building Regulations points for each section of the Building
Regulations and Non Building Regulations summary sheets at Appendix B.
8.
Work out a percentage of accessibility for the premises by taking the actual score
relative to the maximum possible score using the formula.
% accessibility = actual score x
100
maximum possible score
Having established relative accessibility percentages for both Building Regulations and
Non Building Regulations elements of the premises, these can be applied to establish
accessibility of the following, depending on the particular management requirements of
each site.
All aspects of the premises (all questions);
Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations aspects only;
Specific sections of the premises only (e.g. sanitary facilities);
Comparing a series of buildings or parts of buildings against each other.
Buildings or parts of buildings with low accessibility percentages indicate potential access
problems and informed decisions should be taken as to whether these can reasonably be
left as they are, whether the long term cost of improvements can be justified, or whether
the building function should be moved to another location.
Although a building may achieve a high accessibility score overall, there may be a
significant accessibility problem in one crucial area. For example, fully accessible building
internally but with steps at the front entrance preventing access in the first place. This
should be highlighted in the audit and appropriate recommendations made for action.
February 2000
Page 149
POINTS SCORING SUMMARY

BUILDING REGULATIONS SECTIONS
APPENDIX B
SHEET 1 of 2
Name of Building
Address of Building
Site Contact Person

Telephone Number
Ref Section
A
1
2
3
BUILDING REG SECTIONS

EXTERNAL APPROACH
Max.
Possible
Score
Actual
Score
Access
%
Notes
External Approach
External Change in Level
Ramp
Steps
Total
B
4
5
C
6
7
8
9
10
11
CIRCULATION
D
12
13
14
15
INTERNAL SPACES
E
16
17
18
19
20
21
SANITARY FACILITIES
Entrance
Reception
Total
Corridor
Internal Ramp
Internal Staircase
Lift
Platform Stairclimber Lift
Vertical Platform Lift
Total
Internal Doors
Internal Spaces
Catering and Refreshment
Areas
Total
Accessible WC - Ambulant
Accessible WC - Standard
Accessible WC - Peninsular
Changing Facilities - Cubicle
Accessible Shower
Accessible Bathroom
Total
G
23
EVACUATION
Means of Escape
SUM TOTAL (BUILDING REG)
SUM TOTAL
February 2000
Page 150

NON BUILDING REGULATIONS SECTIONS
APPENDIX B
SHEET 2 of 2
Name of Building
Address of Building
Site Contact Person

Telephone Number
Ref Section
NON BDG REG SECTIONS
A
1
2
3
Max.
Possible
Score
Actual
Score
Access
%
Notes
EXTERNAL APPROACH
External Approach
Ramp
Steps
Total
B
4
5
C
6
7
8
9
10
11
CIRCULATION
D
12
13
14
15
INTERNAL SPACES
E
16
17
18
19
20
21
SANITARY FACILITIES
F
22
SIGNAGE
G
23
EVACUATION
H
24
CUSTOMER CARE
Entrance
Reception
Total
Corridor
Internal Ramp
Internal Staircase
Lift
Total
Internal Doors
Internal Spaces
Areas
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
Accessible Shower
Accessible Bathroom
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
Signage
Total
Means of Escape
Total
Customer Care
Total
SUM TOTAL
SUM TOTAL (NON BDG REG)
February 2000
Page 151
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
LOCATION:
WORKED EXAMPLE
N/A
COMMENTS
MAIN ENTRANCE RAMP

shallower than 1 in 20 it is considered a level approach. If it is
steeper than 1 in 12 it is too steep to be used by disabled people
2.08 Are appropriate intermediate landings provided at least 1200mm

long?
100mm high?
2.10 Are there suitable continuous handrails each side and also to
landings?
background?
2.12 Is the top of the handrail 900mm above the surface of the
ramp and 840 - 1000mm above the surface of a landing?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
LANDING 1000 LONG
ALL HANDRAILS AT 950MM
Bdg Regs
6
NHSiS
1
WORKED EXAMPLE
Page 152
ACTUAL POINTS
Bdg Regs
Y
N
NHSiS
Y
N
LOCATION:
WORKED EXAMPLE
N/A
COMMENTS
MAIN ENTRANCE RAMP
bottom of the ramp?
2.15 Does the profile and projection of the handrails provide a firm
grip?

steps?
ACTUAL POINTS
February 2000
H/RAIL STOPS SHORT OF END
HANDRAIL IS FLAT SECTION, NOT ROUND
Bdg Regs
NHSiS
TOTAL POINTS FOR
11
THIS SECTION
WORKED EXAMPLE
Page 153

BUILDING REGULATIONS SECTIONS Worked Example
Name of Building
Address of Building
HEALTHCARE PREMISES
Site Contact Person

Telephone Number
Ref Section
PERSON
NUMBER
A
1
2
3
BUILDING REG SECTIONS

EXTERNAL APPROACH
External Approach
Ramp
Steps
APPENDIX B
SHEET 1 of 2
ADDRESS
Max.
Possible
Score
Actual
Score
Access
%
11
55
Notes
Total
B
4
5
C
6
7
8
9
10
11
CIRCULATION
D
12
13
14
15
INTERNAL SPACES
Entrance
Reception
Total
Corridor
Internal Ramp
Internal Staircase
Lift
Total
Internal Doors
Internal Spaces
Areas
Total
E
16
17
18
19
20
21
SANITARY FACILITIES
Accessible Shower
Accessible Bathroom
Total
G
23
EVACUATION
Means of Escape
SUM TOTAL (BUILDING REG)
11
55%
February 2000
SUM TOTAL
Page 154

APPENDIX B
NON BUILDING REGULATIONS SECTIONS Worked Example
SHEET 2 of 2
Name of Building
Address of Building
HEALTHCARE PREMISES
Site Contact Person

Telephone Number
Ref Section
PERSON
NUMBER
NON BDG REG SECTIONS

A
1
2
3
ADDRESS
Max.
Possible
Score
Actual
Score
Access
%
50
Notes
EXTERNAL APPROACH
External Approach
Ramp
Steps
Total
B
4
5
C
6
7
8
9
10
11
CIRCULATION
D
12
13
14
15
INTERNAL SPACES
Entrance
Reception
Total
Corridor
Internal Ramp
Internal Staircase
Lift
Total
Internal Doors
Internal Spaces
Areas
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
E
16
17
18
19
20
21
SANITARY FACILITIES
Accessible Shower
Accessible Bathroom
N/A
N/A
N/A
Total
F
22
SIGNAGE
Signage
Total
G
23
EVACUATION
Means of Escape
Total
H
24
CUSTOMER CARE
Customer Care
SUM TOTAL (NON BDG REG)
50%
February 2000
Total
SUM TOTAL
Page 155
THE DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION

ACT 1995 (DDA)
APPENDIX C
The Disability Discrimination Act defines disability as a physical or mental impairment

which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a persons ability to carry out
normal day-to-day activities. This might be seen as a definition of people who would
generally be regarded as disabled; it includes physical and sensory impairments, but also
other impairments including learning disabilities and mental health problems. People with
a progressive condition are also included if their condition affects normal day-to-day
activities.
Long term in this regard means lasting, or likely to last at least 12 months or the
remainder of the life of the person concerned. Adverse effects refer to effects in one of a
number of areas listed in the Act: mobility; manual dexterity; physical coordination;
continence; ability to lift, carry or move ordinary objects; speech, hearing or eyesight;
memory or ability to concentrate, learn or understand; being able to recognise physical
danger.
The DDA gives disabled people new rights in the areas of:
access to goods, facilities and services;
buying or renting land or property;
employment.
Since 2 December 1996, the DDA has made it unlawful for disabled people to be treated
less favourably than other people, without justification, in areas such as buying goods,
using services, finding somewhere to live and getting a job. The DDA recognises very
limited circumstances in which there may be justification for treating a disabled person
less favourably than other people. However, justification must not be used as an excuse
for inaction. Less favourable treatment may be possible if a service provider reasonably
believes that one of the following circumstances applies:
Health or safety No-one is required to do anything that would endanger the health or
safety of any person, including the disabled person;
Making contracts A trader can refuse to enter into a major or complex contract with
someone who does not understand the nature of the contract because of their
disability;
Providing a service to others A disabled person could be refused a service if it would

mean that the service could not be provided to others;
Charging more A disabled person cannot be charged more for the same goods or
services than anyone else. However, if a special service is provided or goods made
which cost more to produce, the disabled person can be charged more.
What does the DDA mean for the NHSiS?

On 9 June 1998, the Government announced the timetable for implementing the later
rights of the DDA that affect disabled peoples access to goods and services. The
remaining provisions of the Act are to be implemented in two stages.
February 2000
Page 156
From October 1999, service providers will have to take reasonable steps to change
practices, policies or procedures which make it impossible or unreasonably difficult for
disabled people to use this service; provide auxiliary aids or services which would enable
or facilitate disabled people to use a service and overcome physical barriers by providing
a service by a reasonable alternative method.
From 2004, service providers will have to take reasonable steps to remove, alter, or
provide reasonable means of avoiding physical features that make it impossible or
unreasonably difficult for disabled people to use a service.
Implementation of the remaining provisions on access to goods and services (Section 21)
will be phased in over a period from October 1999 to December 2004. Section 21 refers to
a service provider being under a duty to take such steps as it is reasonable, in all
circumstances of the case. The Act does not specify that any particular factors should be
taken into account. In the absence of a legal definition, it would seem appropriate to apply
everyday meaning.
The next stage of implementation of the DDA will cover the following areas:
Changing policies and practices:
Service providers will need to take reasonable steps to change a practice, policy or
procedure that makes it impossible or unnecessarily difficult for a disabled person to
use a service.
Auxiliary aids or services:
From October 1999, service providers will have to provide auxiliary aids or services, if
this will facilitate access to their services for disabled people.
Physical barriers:
Future requirements will also mean that from 2004 physical barriers that restrict or
prevent the access of disabled people to services will have to be removed, or the
service provided by alternative means.
February 2000
Page 157
REFERENCES
APPENDIX D
Acts and Regulations

The Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act TSO 1970 (extended to Scotland 1972)
The Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons (Amendment) Act TSO 1976
The Disabled Persons Act TSO 1981
Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act TSO 1972
Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations 1990, as amended TSO 1990
Disability Discrimination Act TSO 1995
Code of Practice for the elimination of discrimination in the field of employment against
disabled persons or persons who have had a disability, Department of Education and
Employment TSO 1996
Code of Practice: Rights of Access: Goods, facilities, services and premises, Department
of Education and Employment TSO 1996
Guidance on matters to be taken into account in determining questions relating to the
definition of disability, Department of Education and Employment TSO 1996
British Standards
BS 5810:1979 Code of Practice for access for the disabled to buildings, British
Standards Institution 1979
BS 5588-8:1999 Fire precautions in the design, construction and use of buildings
Code of Practice for means of escape for disabled people, British Standards Institution
1999
National Health Service in Scotland Publications

Property and Environment Forum
Scottish Health Facilities Notes (SHFN)
SHFN 14 Disability access
SHFN 20 Access audits of primary healthcare facilities
Firecode
NHS in Scotland Firecode
February 2000
Page 158
NHS Estates Publications

Health Building Notes (HBN)
HBN 36 Local healthcare facilities, NHS Estates TSO 1995 (2 volumes)
HBN 40 Common Activity Spaces, NHS Estates TSO 1995 (5 volumes)
Scottish Executive Health Department

Good Practice Guide Equality for disabled people in the NHS in Scotland Access to
Services
General Publications
Disabled people using hospitals A charter and guidelines, Royal College of Physicians
Towards Better Access A guide to the development of effective Access Action Plans,
Access Committee for England
Access Audits A guide and checklist for appraising the accessibility of buildings for
disabled users, Centre for Accessible Environments
Citizens Charter Checklist Audit Commission Performance Indicators How easy is it
for disabled people to use Council Buildings? Access Officers Association
Designing for Accessibility An Introductory Guide, Centre for Accessible Environments
1994
Reducing mobility handicaps Towards a barrier free environment, Institute of Highways
and Transportation 1991
Building Sight, Royal National Institute for the Blind 1995
Access to the built environment, Historic Scotland
Barrier free design A manual for building designers and managers, James HolmesSiedle, Butterworth 1986
Personal emergency egress plans, Northern Officer Group, c/o Equal Opportunities
Department, Wakefield Metropolitan Borough Council 1993
February 2000
Page 159
ADVISORY ORGANISATIONS
APPENDIX E
National Health Service in Scotland

Property and Environment Forum Executive
Room 8.51, Graham Hills Building
50 George Street
Glasgow G1 1QE
0141 548 3446 tel

0141 553 4109 fax
Disability Scotland
5 Shandwick Place
Edinburgh EH2 4RG
0131 229 8632 tel
*Centre for Accessible Environments

Nutmeg House
60 Gainsford Street
London SE1 2NY
0171 357 8182 tel/text

0171 357 8183 fax
* Access Officers Association

Judith Forrest (Membership Secretary)
Dept of Planning and Architectural Services
Norwich City Council
City Hall
Norwich NR2 1NH
01603 622233 tel
*RADAR
Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation
12 City Forum
250 City Road
London EC1V 8AF
0171 250 3222 tel
*RNIB
Royal National Institute for the Blind
Joint Mobility Unit
224 Great Portland Street
London W1N 6AA
0171 387 2233 tel
RNID
Royal National Institute for Deaf People
19-23 Featherstone Street
London EC1Y 8SL
0171 296 8000 tel

0171 296 8199 fax
0171 296 8001 text
SCOPE
(Formerly the Spastics Society)
12 Park Crescent
London W1N 4BQ
0171 636 5020 tel
February 2000
Page 160
MENCAP
Royal Society for Mentally Handicapped
Children and Adults
123 Golden Lane
London EC1 0RT
0171 454 0454 tel
MIND
National Association for Mental Health
15-19 Broadway
London E15 4BQ
0181 522 1728 tel
Organisations marked * will advise on contacting approved access consultants.
February 2000
Page 161

Access Audit Checklist Feb 2000

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ACCESS AUDIT CHECKLIST

Access for disabled people

NHS in Scotland, P&EFE, February 2000

Entrance and Reception

Horizontal and Vertical Circulation

Signage and Information

Evacuation and Management

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

Access for disabled people in healthcare premises

Using the Access Audit Checklist

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

Using the Checklist

Questions which relate directly to Parts E, M and S of the Building Standards

Relevant diagrams illustrating the requirements of Parts E, M and S of the Building

On completion of the Checklist, a summary sheet should be drawn up to form the

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

New Build Projects;

Other Projects such as Fire Safety or Health and Safety Improvements;

Simple Improvements such as the provision or renewal of equipment and fittings.

Technical Standards for compliance with the Building Standards (Scotland)

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

NHS IN SCOTLAND PROPERTY AND ENVIRONMENT FORUM

Name and Address of Healthcare

Name and telephone number of Surveyor

Name, job title and telephone number of

NHSiS Drawings Reference

Reference Number (for Database)

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

Relevant diagrams are attached at the end of this section

BROUGHT FORWARD FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

MAXIMUM POSSIBLE POINTS

BROUGHT FORWARD FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

MAXIMUM POSSIBLE POINTS

BROUGHT FORWARD FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

MAXIMUM POSSIBLE POINTS

TOTAL POINTS FOR

wall, pavement/path boundary

(see note 10)

(see note 10)

wall, pavement/path boundary

dropped kerb and road surface to merge here

flush width (see note 9)

kerb height can vary 13 - 170mm

roadway should be marked with a yellow (or

Controlled Crossings/ Dropped Kerbs

a. See notes on next page.

NORMAN RAITT ARCHITECTS

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

Controlled Crossings/Dropped Kerbs

be provided at any vertical rise greater than 13mm.

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form

shared access aisle

100 minimum allowance for

full door swing

NORMAN RAITT ARCHITECTS

1. Average space length (in line parking)

circulation space for fully ambulant users.

2. 300 (pref. 450) allows restricted

NHS in Scotland Property and Environment Forum Audit Form