A ramp is an inclined flat access way between one level and another. Ramps are particularly important for persons with mobility issues who are either unable or have difficulty accessing stairs, such as those persons with physical impairment or persons who use a wheelchair.
The primary Australian Standards relating specifications for ramps is AS 1428.1—Design for access and mobility, Part 1: General requirements for access—New building works.
There are various kinds of ramps including:
- standard ramps—used to negotiate from one level of a building to another, where it is not practical or cost effective to use a lift. Standard ramps have an inclined access way with a gradient steeper than 1 in 20, but not steeper than 1 in 14.
- step ramps are usually used to overcome a single step other than a kerb, and have a length of no greater than 1520mm, and a gradient not steeper than 1 in 8.
- kerb ramps are usually used as a gutter or kerb crossing, and are not greater than 1520mm with a gradient not steeper than 1 in 8.
Further information on ramps and access is also available through the Australian Human Rights Commission links within our Relevant links section.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Employers have a responsibility to allow reasonable access to the workplace for their employees. Section 23 of the Disability Discrimination Act makes it unlawful to discriminate against persons with a disability, by not providing access for use of public premises.
If a ramp is required for access specifically due to a person’s disability and is not something normally supplied by the employer under their occupational health and safety requirements, consideration can be given to applying for funding assistance through the Employment Assistance Fund.
Please refer to the following links for further information on building modifications or to determine eligibility for building modifications:
References
Standards Australia 2001, AS 1428.1, Design for access and mobility, Part 1: General requirements for access—New building work, Standards Australia, Sydney.
Australian Human Rights Commission 2011, Access to buildings and services: Guidelines and information, Australian Human Rights Commission, Sydney, viewed 2 March 2011,http://www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights/buildings/guidelines.htm.
Australian Human Rights Commission 2011, Access to premises, Australian Human Rights Commission, Sydney, viewed 2 March 2011, http://www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights/buildings/access_to_premises.html.