Wheelchair Access Lifts: Building Regulations Part M

Part M of the regulations sets minimum legal standards for the access and use of buildings in England and Wales by all building users, including disabled people. Since a requirement for access was first introduced in 1985, there have been a number of changes to, and extensions in, the scope of access regulations. The most recent, and most radical, revision came into effect in May 2004. Previously, Part M was concerned with ‘access for disabled people’, now the requirement (for non-domestic buildings) is simply that:

‘Reasonable provision shall be made for people to gain access to and use the building and its facilities’

This does not apply to any part of a building that is used solely to enable the building, or any service or fitting within the building, to be inspected, repaired or maintained.

The regulation avoids specific reference to, or a definition of, disabled people. This inclusive approach means that buildings and their facilities should be accessible and usable by all people who use buildings – including parents with children, older people and disabled people.

Building Regulations Part M Access To Extensions

The 2004 revision brings Part M into line with other parts of the Building Regulations by extending its scope to include alterations to existing buildings and certain changes of use. Part M states:

‘Suitable independent access shall be provided to the extension where reasonably practicable’

This does not apply where suitable access to the extension is provided through the building that is being extended.

Building Regulations Approved Documents M

Building Regulations Approved Document M is designed to provide guidance for projects that will be taking place in the more common situations. It is not exclusive and there are options to provide alternative solutions to meet the requirement of the regulations.

The use of approved documents is not mandatory as the requirements of regulations can be met in other ways. Approved Documents are however used as a benchmark by the building control authority.

Approved Document M offers technical guidance on providing access to and within buildings. It is informed largely, although not wholly, to the dimensional criteria in the code of practice British Standard 8300: Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people.