Step or ramp

[lyledunn]

An external escape route has a single step of 280mm. The step has been highlighted but may not be apparent in the crush of an escape? There is plenty of room for a ramp with a nice gentle gradient. Somewhere in the back of my head I remember comment being made about a step being preferable to a ramp?

[kurnal]

No - the reverse is true. A single step can be a hazard and this is specifically referred to in the English ADB. A ramp is preferable, constructed in accordance with Building Regs.

[Fishy]

No - the reverse is true. A single step can be a hazard and this is specifically referred to in the English ADB. A ramp is preferable, constructed in accordance with Building Regs.

Absolutely - especially if the 280mm is the height (rise) of the step!

[John Webb]

Also Para 5.32 of ADB says that final exits should not cause an obstacle to wheelchair users or other disabled people. I visited a church recently who had identified the need for a third fire exit, and found two shallow steps (with 100mm risers) on the outside of the door they proposed converting to the new exit. On consulting my colleague dealing with disabled access/egress, he confirmed that they will need to replace/cover over the steps with a 1:12 ramp. Fortunately they have the room to put a ramp in before the adjacent public footpath is reached.