Step-free

The building regulations set out legal requirements for specific aspects of building design and construction. A series of approved documents provide general guidance about how different aspects of building design and construction can comply with the building regulations.

Approved document M provides guidance for satisfying Part M of the building regulations: Access to and use of buildings, which requires the inclusive provision of ease of access to, and circulation within, buildings, together with requirements for facilities for people with disabilities.

Approved document M, Volume 1: Dwellings (2015 edition incorporating 2016 amendments), defines ‘step-free’ as a:

‘Route without steps but that may include a ramp or a lift suitable for a wheelchair user.’

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Access and inclusion in the built environment: policy and guidance.
• Access consultant.
• Accessibility in the built environment.
• Accessible threshold.
• Approach route.
• Approved document M.
• Changing lifestyles.
• Designing for pedestrians.
• Equality Act.
• Inclusive design.
• Localised obstruction.
• Lifetime homes.
• Neighbour.
• People with disabilities.
• Point of access.
• Principal communal entrance.
• Ramp.
• Threshold.