Introduction
Ramps are sloped pathways used both inside and outside buildings used to
provide access between vertical levels. Ramps provide an alternative
to stairs for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues and people with
prams, bicycles and other wheeled items.
The gradient, slope or steepness of a ramp is the angular relationship
between its rise (vertical height) and its horizontal projection or length (run),
often expressed as a ratio. The rise may be set at a unit of one, so that, for
example, a slope of 1:20 means that as each dimensional unit of height rises
or falls, the dimensional unit of length runs out by 20 units. A ramp that has
too steep a slope will prove difficult for people to use and could even be
unsafe, whilst a ramp with too shallow a slope can require excessive length.
Design/Technical Points About A Ramp
1- is constructed of a non-slip surface, 1200mm wide with a 75mm up-stand
on both edges, a handrail on one side (or both sides if the ramp is open on
both sides) and a flat/level landing at the top and bottom (1200mm x
1200mm minimum) to enter and exit the ramp so the person can tun and
stop safely.
2- Is generally no steeper than 1:12 gradient, but a more gentle slope is ideal
and could be 1:14.
3- Can be made from timber or aluminium, and have a concrete landing to
lead to a path etc.
4, The bottom landing must be able to be seen clearly for safe entry and exit
and must not end on public or shared land (e.g) the landing should not finish
directly onto a driveway which is dangerous.
5- Must be clear of any areas that may be dangerous for people using the
ramp, (e.g.) an opening window, water tap, gully trap, drain or pipes etc.
6- A ramp or landing that is over 1 matre from the ground will require a
building consent. The cost of this is included in the total cost of the ramp.SLOPE IN PERCENT|
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