Providing the right building access ramp is necessary to provide safe access without having to make drastic alterations to your building structure and to comply with disability access regulations.
Building access ramps can make you more accessible to everyone, whether they use crutches, walkers, a wheelchair, or are simply elderly and find steps challenging to navigate.
These ramps enable those with any accessibility needs to move around independently, enriching their lives and giving them the freedom they deserve.
With the increasing rise in Ecommerce and a booming delivery industry, portable and temporary delivery ramps are also in high demand for quick and accessible movement between vehicles and buildings.
As experts in building an access ramp ourselves, we’ve created this guide to provide an overview of everything you need to know to ensure safe access for all your customers.
Building access ramps are an essential addition to any building that needs to be accessible to all.
Simply put, building access ramps are specially designed platforms created to allow wheelchair users, or those with limited mobility, to gain access to various areas of a building.
These ramps are commonly used in many public and private buildings, such as hospitals, schools, stores, and offices.
The good news is, installing building access ramps doesn't just benefit those with mobility issues. Delivery access ramps also offer convenience for anyone carrying heavy items, pushing shopping carts, or push chairs.
Building access ramps come in different types, including:
Building access ramps are typically installed by a professional who can securely secure the structure and ensure that all safety guidelines are followed.
The installation typically involves anchoring the ramp to the ground and ensuring it is secure before the ramp is added.
Depending on the size of the ramp, additional support structures and handrails may be necessary to comply with local building codes.
Without access ramps, those with mobility issues may have limited access to essential services, recreation areas, or community events.
Building access ramps are typically required in places such as:
Many warehouses, fulfillment companies, and delivery drivers will also require portable access ramps or delivery ramps for access to buildings when carting heavy loads.
Therefore, installing access ramps is crucial in ensuring equal opportunity and access for all community members.
When it comes to Building access ramps, there are many different types to choose from. Some are designed for outdoor use, while others are better suited for indoor environments.
Permanent ramps are great for businesses and homes that require ongoing accessibility, whereas portable ramps are perfect for temporary situations like events or construction sites.
There are also threshold ramps for raised doorways and modular ramps that can be easily adjusted or expanded. Here at Portaramp, we offer six different types of Building Access Ramps:
The Portaramp Door Wedge Ramp is a high-quality access solution in a discreet package. This ramp makes it easy for wheelchair and scooter users to navigate thresholds, doors, low curbs, etc. It is perfect for community service providers, commercial enterprises, and domestic applications.
Constructed with the same quality standards as all Portaramp ramps, the Wedge Ramp offers a reliable and straightforward way to improve accessibility wherever needed.
The Flat Panel Ramp is a lighter, non-folding version of the famous Portable Building Ramp. Storage space is not a problem due to this ramp's convenient design!
Suitable for various industries and sectors, such as community equipment stores, commercial and retail premises, cafes, bars, restaurants, and domestic use, this lightweight wheelchair access ramp provides easy access in any location.
The Portaramp Portable Ramp is an ultra-durable, lightweight, folding disability access ramp perfect for multiple locations.
It helps those with limited mobility access local council and social services, stores, pubs and restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and homes. In addition, this premium ramp is ideal for modular buildings as well.
The folding Portaramp Travel Access Ramp for wheelchair users is an optimal, portable solution. This ramp enables wheelchair and scooter users to take their accessibility needs into their own hands.
Avoid relying on businesses and commercial buildings for ramps; the Travel Ramp enables you to easily overcome thresholds, curbs, small steps, and more in seconds. Lightweight and easy to install, this premium private ramp offers greater independence and mobility.
The Trio Ramp for Building Access incorporates robust construction and quick storage with its three-fold panel design. Slip-resistant and durable, this ramp makes all buildings Equality Act compliant in no time at all.
The premium design of the Trio Ramp guarantees maximum accessibility with minimal effort. It provides wheelchair and scooter users, carers, and the general public, with a safe route into buildings. When not in use, simply fold the ramp up and store it out of sight for convenient portability.
Kee Access® ramps are designed to meet the highest disability access standards. These ramps provide everyone with safe and easy access to businesses and residential properties.
The Kee Access building ramp is constructed from Kee Klamp fittings and is available in multiple options, benefitting from:
Our DDA ramps have been developed with the needs of all users in mind, ensuring that everyone can move freely regardless of their accessibility requirements.
No matter which access ramp type you choose, creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals is crucial.
With so many options available, it's essential to choose the one that meets your specific accessibility needs.
Choosing a suitable access ramp can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Our extensive knowledge and experience can help you find the perfect ramp that fits your needs.
Accessibility is critical, and choosing a ramp that is durable, safe, and easy to use is essential.
Whether you need a ramp for your home, business, or outdoor space, there are various options available.
Factors to consider include:
Take the guesswork out of choosing the best building access ramps and contact our team to discuss these factors.
Ensuring that public spaces are accessible for all community members is essential to promote inclusivity and accommodate the needs of people with disabilities.
In the UK, the Equality Act of 2010 and its subsequent amendments provide the legal framework for access ramps and other access forms. This legislation provides that businesses ensure their premises are accessible to people with disabilities by providing access to ramps, handrails, tactile paving, and other necessary elements.
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 is another critical piece of legislation that covers areas such as access to goods, services, education, and employment. It also seeks to ensure that reasonable adjustments are made by businesses and public bodies that provide goods and services to disabled people.
These laws are geared towards promoting equality and ensuring that businesses and service providers cater to the needs of everyone, regardless of their physical abilities.
With proper planning and execution, access ramps offer a safe and convenient way for people with disabilities to access buildings and public spaces and help make the community more inclusive.
If you've installed an access ramp for your building, you may wonder whether you need handrails. Handrails are often an essential safety feature, supporting and stabilizing people using the ramp.
According to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA), a handrail is required on an access ramp if the slope of the ramp is greater than 1:20. The handrail must be provided on both sides of the ramp, be continuous and extend from the top to the bottom.
If in doubt, our team can discuss all building access ramp options with you, including additional access accessories.
Portable delivery access ramps provide a safe and convenient way for individuals and companies to transport heavy goods up and down raised surfaces.
Whether you're a business owner looking to improve your loading dock accessibility or a homeowner in need of a temporary ramp for wheelchair access, these ramps are a reliable solution.
Made from durable, lightweight aluminum, these ramps can withstand heavy loads while also being lightweight and easy to transport.
Their ability to fold up makes them an excellent option for those who need to transport the ramp from place to place.
With a portable delivery access ramp, you can ensure secure and easy delivery of goods or access to any elevated platform.
Choosing the right building access ramp to ensure compliance with disability legislation is essential.
Don't take any risks – ensure you have all the facts before committing. If you're looking for expert advice and help, look no further than Portaramp.
With our experience and knowledge, we are committed to helping you choose the best access ramp for your business and ensuring that your building meets all applicable disability laws and act guidelines.
Contact us today and get started on making your building compliant.
