Ramp Gradient Checklist Template

As per Approved Document K (2013), the core requirement of ramp design is that ramps must be designed, built, and installed so as to be safe for people moving in between levels and elevations, in or about the building. You can find the complete, detailed requirements in the Approved Document K PDF file. However, to recap its contents, general requirements include requirements for appropriate steepness, rise & run, handrails, headroom, length, width, guarding, and landings for stairs, ramps, and ladders.

To enumerate, here is a run-down of most of the specific requirements for over-all ramp design:

• Gradient Definition – Any surface steeper than 1:20 is classed as a ramp and must meet ramp standards.
• Maximum Gradient – Ramps should not be steeper than 1:12 for safe use.
• Maximum Rise per Flight – Each ramp flight should rise no more than 500 mm before a level landing.
• Landings – Provide level landings (max 1:60 slope) at the top, bottom, and between long flights.
• Landing Length – Each landing should be at least 1,200–1,500 mm long.
• Width – Ramps for general use should be at least 1,500 mm wide.
• Edge Protection – A 100 mm-high kerb or upstand must be provided on open sides.
• Guarding – Provide guardrails where the ramp edge has a drop over 600 mm.
• Handrails – Required on both sides if over 1,000 mm wide or rises more than 600 mm; height 900–1,000 mm.
• Slip Resistance – Surfaces must be non-slip and safe in wet or dry conditions.
• Visual Contrast – Ramps and landings should have contrasting finishes for visibility.
• Headroom – Maintain at least 2,000 mm clear headroom above the ramp.
  Alternative Steps – For rises over 300 mm, steps must also be provided as an alternative route.