Ramps allow people in wheelchairs with a walker, stroller or bicycle to overcome a difference in height. They are available without restriction and can be used by everyone. When level differences cannot be avoided at the entrance or inside a building, a ramp must be provided, because the steps even one represents an insurmountable obstacle for many people.
The standard “Obstacle-free constructions” describes the determining criteria for the choice of the installation necessary to cross a difference in levels. Not prone to breakdowns or downtime due to vandalism or fire, the mobility123 ramp allows many people to cross a level difference at the same time and quickly. It is easy to use and does not require the use of a control element. Due to the necessary effort required, the ramp is less suitable for an annual wheelchair.
Important
Note Ramps are only allowed in the event of transformation or renovation:
- Between the parking space suitable for wheelchairs and the stairwells or elevators.
- Inside schools.
Recommendations
At the entrance or inside a building, a ramp is only appropriate if the level difference is small.
A ramp is not suitable if the difference in levels is equivalent to one or more floors.
Providing a ramp and an elevator makes sense, because the ramp can still be used in the event of an elevator failure. The flow of people in high-traffic areas is thus considerably improved. For buildings open to the public, standard describes the following minimum requirements:
Slope
- As low as possible, max 6% so that the ramp can be used without the help of others
- A rotating ramp must guarantee a slope of max 6% over a width of min. 1.20 m. If a slope is expected, it must not exceed 2%.
- Allowed during transformation or renovation: max 6 to 12% with handrails
A ramp with a slope between 6 and 12% can be used by a number of people with reduced mobility, especially if they use an electric wheelchair, a wheelchair with a traction device or a scooter. If a 6% incline cannot be implemented due to a particular situation instead, it is best to have a slightly steeper ramp to avoid too long a detour.
Width
- Minimum 1.20 m width allowing crossing with one person, but not with a stroller or a second wheelchair
- Admitted under reservation during transformation or renovation: width 1.00 m with a high border of min. 0.10 m, if the level difference is at most 0.40 m
- Exterior or busy ramps with a change of direction ≥ 45 ° must have an outside radius of the useful path of min. 1.90 m.
Bearings
At the start and finish of the ramp as well as in front of the doors and passages, provide a level without gradient of a length of min. 1.40m. If change of direction ≥ 45 °, you need to plan a landing without gradient of min. 1.40 x 1.40m. Take into account the free spaces in front of the doors. If the difference in level is greater than 1.50 m, if possible provide an intermediate landing with a length of min. 1.40 m.
