Access for disabled people guidance notes

Access for Disabled People

Design

Guidance Note


Contents

Introduction 1

Disability 3

Legal requirement 3

Design principles 5

Adapting and improving existing buildings 6

Arriving at the facility 8

External features 12

The entrance 16

Internal features 20

Lifts 27

Emergency escape 29

Changing areas 31

Showers 36

Toilet provision 38

Social areas 42

Fixtures and fittings 43

Finishes 46

Services 49

Lighting 49

Management issues 50

Spectator/viewing provision 51

Swimming pools 52

Sport-specific requirements 58

Wheelchair sports 62

Access in the countryside 67

Conclusion 67

Contact addresses 67

This guidance is supported by the English Federation of Disability Sport

Sport England’s mission:

To foster a healthier, more successful nation throughincreased investment in sport and active recreation.


1

Good design alone will not remove all the barriersto full participation that are encountered bypeople with disabilities. Decisions on how thebuilding will be managed, marketed and operatedare equally important in making a sports facilityinclusive rather than exclusive.

This guidance note presents the minimumrequirements for achieving good access andshould be used alongside the other guidancenotes in this series.

Introduction

This guidance note addresses the requirementto provide people with disabilities with fullaccess to all sports facilities. While it cannotprovide exhaustive advice, the guidance isintended to indicate what is reasonable provisionin a modern sports facility. The checklists in thepocket at the end of the document are for usein conjunction with the access audits and auditmethodology information in the section onAdapting and Improving Existing Buildings.

Full access means more than just being able toget through the front door and use the toilets. Itmeans being able to make full use of the facilityas a participant, spectator or as a member ofstaff. Enabling full access does not, in mostcases, mean inflated costs. If integrated intothe design and development process, it can beachieved easily and will result in a better facilityfor everyone.

Over eight million people in the UK have somedegree of disability, for example mobility orsensory impairment or learning difficulties.However, the benefits of providing full access atall sports facilities extend far more widely: to theyoung and old, the fit and not so fit, parents withpushchairs, and people carrying large sportsbags and cumbersome equipment. The followingguidance will help make sports facilities moreaccessible and easier to use for everyone. It isnot about ‘special’ provision, but applies toevery sports facility. It should be noted that:

● Providing good access does not deter fromcreating a facility that is imaginative,efficient, attractive and enjoyable.

● A combination of good design and goodmanagement will integrate all users andincrease the independence of everyoneusing the facility.


2

Visual impairment Learning disability Mobility impairment Wheelchair users

Sport

Angling ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Archery ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Athletics ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Badminton ● ● ● ● ● ●

Basketball ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Billiards/cue sports ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Boccia ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Bowls ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Boxing ● ● ● ●

Canoeing ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Cricket ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Cycling ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Dragon boat racing ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Equestrian ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Fencing ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Goalball ● ● ● ●

Gymnastics ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Hockey ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Judo ● ● ● ●

Netball ● ● ● ●

Orienteering ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Rowing ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Rugby union ● ● ● ●

Sailing ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Shooting ● ● ● ●

Skiing ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Soccer ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Sub-Aqua ● ● ● ●

Swimming ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Table tennis ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Tennis ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Trampolining ● ● ● ●

Triathlon ● ● ● ● ● ●

Volleyball ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Water skiing ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Weightlifting/powerlifting ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Wheelchair rugby ● ● ● ●

Note: People with hearing impairment take part in all sports at all levels of participation, so have not been specificallyreferred to in the table.

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Table 1 Disabled people participate and compete in a wide range of sports


3

Disability

Disability is often defined as what a personcannot do because of a medical condition. Forexample, it might be said that ‘she cannot usethe fitness equipment room because she is in awheelchair.’ This guidance, however, is writtenfrom the viewpoint that it is the design andmanagement of a facility that create thebarriers and limitations to its use. Consequently,the view would be that ‘she cannot use thefitness equipment room because the equipmentis inappropriate and the room is located on aninaccessible mezzanine floor.’ Or ‘she cannotuse the fitness equipment room because thestaff have not had adequate training.’

Disability is part of everyday life varying indegree, diversity and distribution and will morethan likely affect most people to a greater orlesser extent at some point in their lives. It isestimated that there are between 8.3 and 11.7million people in the UK with a disability orimpairment that is covered by the DisabilityDiscrimination Act (DDA). Some facts:

● 4 million people in the UK have amobility impairment

● 25% of UK households have a disabledmember

● 2% of UK households have a memberwho uses a wheelchair

● 5% of cars bought in the UK each yearare for use by people with a disability.

As well as being equitable, it makes financialsense to attract rather than discourage allpotential customers to your facility; spor tsfacilities should be available for the use of everypotential customer.

Legal requirement

Recently, legislation and regulations concerningthe needs of people with disabilities havedeveloped and expanded. The most significant are:

● Building Regulations Part M 1999

● Disability Discrimination Act 1995

● Special Education Needs and Disability Act 2001

● Code of Practice BS 8300: Design ofBuildings and their Approaches to Meet theNeeds of Disabled People.

An inclusive and fully accessible sports facilitymust do much more than simply comply withPart M of the Building Regulations and with theDisability Discrimination Act. These regulationsand legislation define the minimum statutoryrequirements, but do not provide for appropriateand acceptable quality of access. While itcannot be all encompassing, this guidance noteis concerned with how an acceptable standardof access for everyone can be achieved.

Building Regulations Part M 1999

In terms of sports facilities, Part M is limited inscope in that it only addresses the needs ofsome people with mobility, hearing and sightimpairment. It merely requires that people withdisabilities have access to all floors of newspor ts buildings including the provision ofaccessible WCs, unisex accessible changingrooms for swimming pools, and spectator seating.

A common misconception is that compliancewith the Approved Document for Part M makesa facility fully accessible. This is not the case,particularly in sports facilities for which therequirements of Part M are too limited. Forexample, the Approved Document does notrequire accessible team changing rooms to beprovided at a sports centre.


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Disability Discrimination Act 1995

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) createda right of access to employment and services.Designers and service providers must anticipatethe needs of people with disabilities and ensurethat goods and services will be available tothem on an equal basis. Unlike Part M of theBuilding Regulations there is no specific test orapproval to demonstrate that the requirementsof the Act have been met.

Currently the Act requires spor ts facil i tymanagement to make ‘reasonable adjustments’to enable people with disabilities to use facilities –this might mean providing extra help to overcomea barrier. From 2004 ‘reasonable adjustments’will have to be made to the physical featuresof a facility to overcome any physical barriersto access, for example making the receptiondesk accessible.

Specific exemptions to the requirements of theAct relate to some sports facilities, howeverimplementing those exemptions will limit howthe facilities can be used. For example, Part IIIof the Act does not cover services that are notnormally available to the public, such as thoseprovided by ‘private clubs’. However, where a club does provide services to the public then the Act applies. For example, if a ‘private’golf club refuses membership to a disabledgolfer, this is not covered by the Act. However, if

the club hires out its facilities for a weddingreception, the Act applies to that service.Consequently, if the club allows non-membersto use the course and the associated facilities,refusal to allow a disabled golfer to play is likelyto contravene the Act.

The requirements of the DDA are the minimumstatutory requirements and are not necessarilyappropriate to a modern sports facility. Thisguidance note is intended to give an outline ofwhat is appropriate in terms of the physicaldesign of a sports facility. Detailed guidance onthe management implications of the Act isavailable from the Disability Rights Commission(see contact addresses).

Sports facility designers and managers mustaim to make all facilities fully accessible now,rather than wait until implementation of the Actin 2004.

Code of Practice BS 8300

This new standard explains how the builtenvironment can be designed to anticipate andovercome restrictions that prevent or inhibitdisabled people from making full use offacilities and their surroundings. The standardprovides direct ion on a wide range ofimpairment and building types, however itrefers readers to this guidance for moredetailed information on sports-related projects –with the exception of stadia.


5

● poor, non-accessible signage

● poor acoustics that cause confusion andmake it difficult to use sound as a naviga-tional aid

● hazards such as steps or other fittings thatproject into circulation areas.

People with hearing impairment

One in 10 British adults have some form ofhearing impairment. Often ignored by otherpeople, th is can be a ver y isola t ing andfrustrating condition. The types of difficultiesencountered are:

● insufficient information resulting inrestricted independence

● too many hard surfaces leading to a noisyand confusing environment.

People with learning disability

People with learning disability face similarchallenges as visually impaired users whenfinding their way around an unfamiliar facility,and this can result in them avoiding new places.Many people with a learning disability haveproblems reading or understanding signs andinstructions and may also have visual andmobility problems. It is therefore very importantthat all the recommendations of this guidanceare taken into account when designing a sportsfacility. In particular:

● Avoid ‘clever’ signs and colour schemesthat are difficult to understand.

● Use signage, lighting and the layout of thebuilding to define route ways and to make itclear which are public areas and which areprivate.

● Ensure that staff are easily identifiable andhave the skills and training to assist peopleto find their way around the facility.

How will people use the facility?

When designing a sports facility it is necessaryto visualise how people will use the facility as a whole, from transpor t links, to the initialapproach, through to specific areas, for examplethe changing rooms, the social area and the

Design principles

Designing and managing an accessible buildingmeans more than providing ramps and sufficientdoor widths – these are important, but theymust not become the focus of attention. Thereare many examples of projects with ramps and external doors that meet all the minimumrequirements, yet they are totally inaccessibleby a wide range of potential customers. Thereis a wide range of disabilities and they must allbe taken into account when considering thedesign and management of a sports facility.

People with mobility impairment

Approximately one in 10 British adults have someform of mobility impairment and, of these, onein 100 use a wheelchair. Some of the problemsfor wheelchair users are:

● changes in level (high kerbs, steep rampsor unclimbable stairs)

● inaccessible changing, social and toiletfacilities

● doorways and corridors that are too narrow

● controls that are too high to reach.

Problems for the ambulant person with mobilityimpairment include:

● uneven ground

● walking on any kind of gradient

● inadequate clearance for walking aids.

People with visual impairment

About one in 50 people have some form ofvisual impairment and, of these, approximately96% have some degree of residual sight. Theproblems they might encounter include:

● lack of familiarity with the space aroundthem

● difficulty in locating themselves due toconfusing design and layout

● poor use of colour contrast thus hamperinglocation and comprehension

● poor illumination – low levels, glare,confusing reflections


6

activity area. At the same time it is essentialto identify the potential obstacles and restrictionsthat a person with a disability might face.Depending on the type of facility, some keyareas of consideration might be:

● parking the car or getting off a bus or coach

● finding and reaching the entrance

● buying a ticket

● passing through doors

● finding and using the changing rooms

● accessing and using the fitness room,court, pool, athletics track and so on

● finding and using the toilet facilities

● finding and using the social facilities

● finding a convenient seat/location fromwhich to view the game with friends

● most importantly, quick and safe evacuationof the building in an emergency.

In summary, when considering how people witha disability will use any part of the facility it isimportant to ask the following questions:

● How will they find it?

● How will they reach it?

● How will they use it?

Adapting and improving existing buildings

Many spor ts facilities were designed andconstructed in a way that denies full access toall or part of the amenities. In some of these,enlightened management has overcome manyof the barriers to access despite the physicalconstraints of the building.

When altering or extending a sports facility, it isessential that the project be developed with theclear aim of achieving full accessibility. The firststep in achieving this is to carry out an accessaudit. This will establish the current situation andinform the design and development of the project.It will help create the basis for a programme ofworks and a written access policy.

Extensions

All new extensions to sports facilities must meetthe requirements of this guidance note. Thedesign of the extension must aim to improveaccess to the existing facility and must nevermake the situation worse.

Alterations

Where substantial work is planned at an existingfacility the project must aim to comply with thefull requirements of this guidance. When makingalterations or simply carrying out maintenance,take the oppor tunity to consider accessimplications and how they can be improved.Bear the following points in mind:

● The proposed work must not make theaccess situation worse.

● Where it is not reasonably practicable toachieve full access immediately, a costedand prioritised action plan must beprepared with the aim of achieving fullaccess in the medium to long term. Theaction plan must also identify how currentpoor access can be managed in the shortterm. This may require changes in thepolicies, practices and procedures of thefacility to bring accessibility to anacceptable level; a written policy must beproduced.


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● Most of the adjustments required toimprove access do not need to beexpensive or complicated.

Access audits

When considering work on an existing facility,be it maintenance, alteration or extension, thestarting point is to carry out an access audit toidentify the current access situation. Anexperienced architect or access consultantshould carry out the access audit – one who is familiar with the needs of people withdisabilities, in particular their sporting needs.

The audit must consider everyone’s needs andis not, as is often believed, purely aboutwheelchair access. An access audit requiresanalysis and consideration of the existingfacility – external works, design, layout and,equally importantly, the fittings and equipmentused. The appraisal should not only considerthe physical features of the building, it shouldalso consider how the building is, or will be,managed and operated.

The access audit is the key to identifyinghow accessible a facility is. Once the audithas been prepared, design andmanagement strategies must be developed toachieve and sustain quality access. The keyrequirements of an access audit are to identifyhow the facility works in terms of:

● physical design and constraints of thebuilding

● specific sports spaces

● fixtures and fittings

● materials and finishes

● furniture and equipment

● how the building is used and managed

● opportunities and challenges.

Audit methodology

The audit should be approached in a logicalway similar to designing a new building:

● Obtain any plans of the existing buildingthat may be available.

● Research the general background to thebuilding including how it is used.

● Solicit opinions from regular users andemployees.

The access audi t should compare therequirements of this guidance against existingprovision. The checklists at the end of thisdocument provide a summary of the guidanceand should be used to record the findings. It isrecommended that the audit be carried out inthe following logical order:

● transport links

● external works and approach to the building

● entrance areas

● circulation areas, stairs, corridors, lifts, andso on

● changing provision

● toilet provision

● sports activity spaces – pool, gym, sportshall, and so on

● social and spectator provision

● staff, management and other non-public areas

● emergency evacuation routes andprocedures

● general management issues.

The final report will outline the current accesssi tua t ion and suggest how this can beimproved to facilitate access for all. Note thatthe same approach could be used during thedesign process when assessing drawings fornew buildings.


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Arriving at the facility

People with disabilities arrive at sports facilitiesby a variety of means, most commonly by car,minibus or taxi. However, arrangements shouldbe made for those arriving by wheelchair,bicycle or on foot and, where possible, for thosearriving by public transport. It is essential thatthere is clear signage at the entry from thepublic highway indicating routes to:

● car parking areas, specifically accessiblecar parking spaces

● drop-off point

● principal entrance to the facility.

Car parking

Detailed guidance on the design of car parkingareas is available in the guidance note Car Parkand Landscape Design, however the key issuesare summarised here. A car is essential for manydisabled people to access sport and leisurefacilities, so it is vital to provide suitable parkingwith unhindered access to the entrance:

● Provide at least the minimum number ofspecifically reserved, accessible carparking spaces for people with disabilitiesappropriate to the scale of the facility asindicated in Table 2.

● Group bays together and signpost theirlocation from the main entrance to the site.

● Bays must be clearly laid out and signed,both on the surface of the bay and bymeans of a vertical sign.

● Bays must be located as close as possibleto the main entrance of the building. If thepathway to the entrance is uncovered thedistance to the entrance must be no morethan 50m; this can be increased to amaximum of 100m if the pathway iscovered.

● The car park surface must be smooth andeven. Unbound surfaces such as gravel arenot acceptable.

● Kerbs must have dropped sections at allpoints where wheelchair users may want tocross. Tactile indicator paving should beprovided at these points to show visuallyimpaired people where they mayconveniently cross.

● The height of ticket, swipe-card or key-activated car park barriers should conformto the requirements of BS 6571–4.

Clear signage at the entry from the public highwayis essential


9

Figure 1 Accessible car parking bays

Provision

Minimum of two accessiblecar parking bays or 6%, ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●whichever is the greater

At least 8% of the carparking spaces to be ❍ ● ● ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ●accessible

Drop-off point adjacentto the entrance ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ● ● ●

Key: ● Required ❍ Recommended

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Table 2 Accessible car parking spaces – requirements


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A dedicated footpath with olfactory and tactileinformation will assist visually impaired people

● Vehicle height barriers should have verticalclearance of 2.6m to allow the passage ofhigh conversion vehicles.

● Audible barrier controls must havealternative provision for people with hearingand speech impairment.

Drop-off point

A drop-off bay must be provided. Ideally, thisshould be sheltered and immediately adjacentto the main entrance. Note the following points:

● The bay should be long enough to allow‘tail-loading’.

● For smaller facilities where a drop-off pointat the main entrance may be impractical,the distance between the nearest drop-offpoint and the sports facility should be nomore than 50m if the pathway is uncovered.

Routes to the facility

To enable everyone, particularly people withdisabilities, to move conveniently and safelyfrom their arrival point to the entrance demandscareful attention to the layout and detail ofpaths, ramps, steps and handrails. All routesshould give suf f ic ient aural and tact i leinformation, supplemented by visual clues, tohelp people with sight impairment.

● Provide landmarks along routes to helporientation.

● Traffic routes must be clearly distin-guishable from pedestrian routes throughuse of texture and colour.

● Materials must be used thoughtfully. Theycan provide different sound and ‘feel’qualities and, with proper use of colour, willaid location along the route. If usedindiscriminately, however, they can beconfusing and even dangerous.

● Provide current standard tactile surfaceswhere footpaths cross vehicle routes toprovide warning and guidance to blind andvisually impaired people. Ensure there areno obstacles or hazards, for examplegratings, to obstruct crossing points.

● Crossings should be 1200mm wideminimum.

● Careful design of planting schemes will aidlocation by providing scent and colour cluesand in some instances can provide keylandmarks for the visually impaired user.Ensure plants do not overhang route ways.

● On access routes on level ground provideresting places not more than 50m apart forpeople with impaired mobility.

Figure 2 Drop-off point


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To be accessible, routes must be a minimumof 1800mm clear width where they servesports facilities. This should be increased inlarge facilities.

Street furniture such as lamps, bins and soon must be out of the route way.

At unavoidable pinch points no greater than6.0m in length the path can be reduced to1.0m clear width.

Figure 3 Designing an access route

Splay corners at junctions to easemanoeuvring for wheelchair users.

Ensure minimum clear height of 2.1m ismaintained under trees, canopies, bracketsand so on.

Access routes must be level or have theshallowest gradient possible. Where thegradient is 1:20 or steeper it must comply withthe requirements for a ramp.


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External features

Layout

● Footpaths should be 1800mm wideminimum. At unavoidable pinch pointsaround obstacles such as trees, anabsolute minimum width of 1000mm isacceptable providing this does not exceed6m in length.

● Provide splayed or rounded angles atjunctions with other footpaths.

● The maximum gradient for footpaths is 1 in21 – anything steeper than this is definedas a ramp and must comply with specificrequirements.

● Cross-falls should not exceed 1 in 50.

Materials

● All surfaces must be slip-resistant in allweather conditions.

● Do not use unbound surfaces on principalroutes to and between facilities, forexample gravel hogging.

● All surfaces must meet with a level andeven junction.

● All gratings should be flush with paving andlocated beyond the boundaries of theaccess route.

● Block paving should be laid evenly.

● Dished drainage channels are trip hazardsand therefore unacceptable on accessroutes.

● Footpaths should be well illuminated toavoid the creation of contrasting pools oflight and darkness.

Signs

Signs should be part of a carefully considered,comprehensive signage system to ensure thatthey are:

● carefully located

● clear, simple and logical

● non-reflective.

Further detailed information on the design ofsigns is provided later in this guidance note.

Ramps

Where it is not possible to use a level approach,a ramp will enable safe and convenient accessfor people with pushchairs or wheelchairs andfor deliveries. It is essential that ramps beaccompanied by a short flight of steps (seelater) for use by those who find negotiating aramp more difficult than using steps. Issues tobear in mind include:

● A gradient of 1 in 21 is considered level;any gradient steeper than this is classifiedas a ramp.

● The gradient must be as level as possible,between 1 in 20 and 1 in 15, maximumlength 10m.

● The absolute maximum gradient is 1 in 12over a maximum length of 5m.

● The surface colour of ramps shouldcontrast in luminance with that of landingsto enable visually impaired users toanticipate them.

● All ramps should have slip-resistantsurfaces that are firmly fixed and easilymaintained.


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Figure 4 Ramped approach – key features

Note: Full details of balustradingomitted for clarity

● Ramps should be illuminated to at least 100 lux.

● All ramps should be provided with handrailson both sides. Minimum clear width1200mm except where sportschairs mightbe used – for example at tennis clubs orsports centres, in which case they shouldbe at least 1500mm wide.

● Handrails should be made of materials thatare not cold to the touch. For example,painted steel handrails are unacceptablewhile nylon-coated steel handrails areacceptable.

● The colour or brightness of the handrailshould distinguish it from its background.

● If the ramp is exposed to the extent thatpeople might feel vulnerable considerproviding a solid balustrade.


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● Do not use open risers.

● All risers must be solid.

● Provide tactile warning surfaces withtextured ribs parallel to the step nosing atthe top of each flight of steps. This will givepeople with sight impairment early warningof a tripping hazard. The surface should be1500mm wide and should extend 150mmeither side of the stair.

● A minimum clear landing of 1500mmshould be provided at the top and bottom ofeach flight of steps. All landings must beclear of door swings.

● Straight flights are easier to negotiate thancurved or dogleg flights.

Figure 5 External staircase – requirements

Steps

● Some people, in particular ambulantdisabled people, prefer ‘easy going’ stepsand these should always be locatedadjacent to ramps.

● However short the flight of steps, handrailsmust be provided on both sides maintainingat least 1100mm clear width.

● Handrails should be made of materials thatare not cold to the touch. For example,painted steel handrails are unacceptablewhile nylon-coated steel handrails areacceptable.

● The colour or brightness of the handrailshould distinguish it from its background.


15

● The rise of steps must be consistent and inthe range 150–170mm, with goings in therange 250–300mm.

● Avoid single, isolated steps.

● Twelve is the maximum number of risers inany flight.

● Each step nosing should contrast in colourand luminance with the adjacent tread.

Street furniture

It is essential to locate street furniture carefully asit can create serious problems for people withsight impairment as well as causing obstaclesfor people with pushchairs and wheelchairs.Used correctly street furniture can createinterest and give visual clues to aid location:

● Only locate street furniture outside aplanned and clearly defined pedestrianroute.

● Provide appropriate seating along inclinedor long routes.

● Ensure that all street furniture is clearlydistinguishable from its background by theuse of colour banding. Provide distinctivesurfaces around obstacles and streetfurniture.

Zero setback preferredmax 25mm

Each step nosing should contrastwith the adjacent tread

Risers must not be open

300mm preferred250mm min going

Min 60º

150–170mm preferred(100mm min 170max)

Figure 6 External step profile

● Avoid creating areas of low headroom orprojections out into route ways.

● Avoid thin bollards.

● Bollards and other street furniture shouldbe higher than 1000mm.

● Bollards and free-standing posts situatedon or close to pedestrian routes must behighlighted with wide bands of contrastingcolour located 900 and 1500mm aboveground level.

● Do not link bollards with a chain or rope asthis is hazardous to blind and visuallyimpaired people.

● Ensure cycle racks are out of the line oftravel with good colour contrast and atactile warning surface surrounding theracks to accommodate overhangingwheels.

The approach

The approach to the entrance should be designedso that hard and soft landscaping reinforces theroute to and the location of the entrance.

Do not design large areas to be uniform incolour and texture. This wastes the opportunityto relate the building to its surroundings andcreates an unattractive and desolate approach.Additionally, it can prevent people with visualimpairment from locating the entrance and/ormain routes. Note the following requirements:

● Provide obvious and clear signage in thecorrect location.

● Windows, doors and other objects must notproject into pathways. All doors that swingout should be recessed or safeguarded byrailings.

● Columns, roof brackets and so on shouldbe carefully located and detailed so thatthey are not a hazard.

● Carefully locate street furniture, canopybrackets, columns, and so on that areimmediately adjacent to the entrance.

● Provide appropriate seating adjacent to theentrance.


16

The entrance

The design of the entrance should make the facilityrecognisable and inviting. Ensure the following:

● The entrance must be easily distinguishablefrom the facade as a whole.

● The entrance must be fully accessible witha level area immediately in front of theentrance doors.

● Do not segregate groups of people. Forexample, ensure that people withdisabilities do not have to use an entranceat the back of the building.

● Entrance doors must be sited logically inrelation to approach routes.

External doors

All large facilities, and those where a significantamount of wheelchair sport takes place, mustbe fitted with automatically controlled doors –do not use revolving doors.

Entrance doors must not be made of highlypolished material such as stainless steel. Theymust, however:

● be a suitable width for the scale and type offacility (see Table 3)

Minimum clearwidth (mm)

800 ● ● ●

900 ❍ ● ● ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ● ●

1000 ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ❍ ❍ ●

1200 ❍ ● ● ● ❍

Automatic doors ❍ ● ● ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ●


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Table 3 External doors – requirements

● be fitted with level thresholds (maximumprojection 13mm)

● be free of hazardous gratings adjacent tothe door and its approach

● be distinguishable from adjacent walls andscreens

● have vision panels.


17

Glazed doors and associated side panels mustnot incorporate fully glazed frameless entrancedoors. They must, however:

● be distinguishable from their surroundings,with features such as signs and logoslocated at eye level, that is 1400–1600mmabove ground level

● repeat safety markings at low level, that is850–1000mm if the glazing goes to thefloor

● display these distinguishing features,ensuring that they are visible from bothsides of the door

● comply with BS 6262–4.

Automatically controlled doors should:

● have a sliding, bi-fold or telescopicarrangement – hinged (swing) or foldingdoors can be used in exceptional situations

● be carefully designed to minimise the risk ofaccident as an automatic swinging orfolding door can be a serious hazard. Inparticular, the leading edge must beprotected so that people cannot walk into it

● be capable of manual operation in theevent of power failure.

In situations where an automatic door control isnot required but a power-operated door is to beprovided the ‘push-pad’ must be located at aheight between 750–1000mm and be clearlyvisible. Additionally, it must be of a contrastingcolour and luminance to its background.

Entrance lobby

● The layout and dimensions of the entrancelobby must be appropriate to the facility’ssize and type. The dimensions are criticalfor wheelchair users as they will need tomove clear of the first door before encoun-tering the second.

● The entrance lobby should be finished witha recessed ‘cleaning surface’ that is firmand fitted flush with the surrounding floorfinish so as not to become a trip hazard.

● Where space is tight, consideration shouldbe given to omitting the inner doors,providing an overhead warm air curtain andadjusting the design of heating to theentrance area to compensate for any heatloss.

● The level of lighting in the lobby should beadjustable to provide a smooth transitionfrom external to internal lighting levels andvice versa.

Provision

Reception deskincluding ’hearing loop’ ● ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ● ❍ ● ● ●

Accessible publictelephone ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ● ● ● ● ●

Textphone ❍ ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ● ❍ ● ● ● ● ●

Seating/resting area ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ● ● ●


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Table 4 Reception area – requirements

Foyer/reception area

The layout of the reception area should be clearand logical and must not rely on signs to guidepeople through it. Close attention to detail iscritical to the success of this space:

● People coming through the entrance doorshould have a clear view of the receptiondesk.

● If turnstiles are used ensure they areadjustable and/or provide a separate,adjacent route for people with pushchairsor wheelchairs who may be restricted bythe mechanism.

● The lift, staircase and public telephoneshould be visible and close to the receptiondesk. Where a direct line of sight to thesekey facilities is not possible clear signagemust indicate their whereabouts.


18

● Suitable seating is required for earlyarrivals and people who may be meetingfriends before or after using the facilities.

● The reception area should be ‘acousticallyquiet’ so that communication, particularlywith staff at the reception desk, is clear andfree of distractions. It is essential that hardreflecting surfaces, such as glass, beacoustically balanced with softer sound-absorbing surfaces, such as carpets andcurtains.

Reception desk

In larger facilities where some form of reception/booking desk is required, it is essential that thedesk or counter be properly designed to allowgood access for all.

Defined space for waiting and manoeuvring in frontof lift 1500 x 1500mm

Telephone recesslocated away fromnoisy areas

Safeguard lowheadroom

Obvious entrance withclear views in helpsorientation

Low counter reception –adequate space in frontand behind withinduction loop for staffand visitors

Flush and firm mattingto entire lobby

Lighting levelsin lobby providea transitionbetween insideand outside

Brackets or columns tocanopies or lights keptclear of circulation routes

Seating areas shouldincorporate loose seatswith armrests

Seating area –integrated spaces forwheelchair users

Waiting area – well litwith a ‘quiet’environment balancebetween acousticallyhard and soft areas

Protect door swings

Recess features suchas vending machinesand radiators

Lift

Logicalunobstructedroutes; clearsignage

Locate visual and tactileinformation in obvious

and convenient positions

Figure 7 Reception area

Where they areunavoidable, obstaclesshould be enhanced toassist way finding andto minimise the risk ofaccidental collision

Column


19

● Two work surface heights should beprovided to accommodate customers andstaff who may wish to stand or sit, includingwheelchair users.

● Design the counter so that it can be run bya member of staff working from awheelchair and to ensure that a wheelchairuser on the public side of the counter canbe served. To achieve this it is essential tohave a lower section, and to give carefulconsideration to the location of informationand equipment on the management side ofthe counter.

● Screens and grilles inhibit communicationand should only be used when dictated bysecurity considerations.

● An induction loop must be provided toassist users with hearing impairment andthis must be clearly indicated by thestandard symbol.

Public telephone

Except in the smallest facilities, such as smallpavilions, a public telephone with an inductioncoupler must be located in the reception area toallow people to call taxis, organise lifts, and so on.

Signs

Good, clear information is essential in all facilities:

● Only use signage to locate specific facilitiesand reinforce logical routes, not to clarify aconfusing layout.

● The layout of the building and the use ofappropriate finishes and lighting can beused to convey navigational information.

Further detailed information on the design ofsigns is provided later in this guidance note.

Upper writing surfacefor standing customers(950–1100mm high) Knee recess on

customer side 500mm deep

Reception countertop at760mm maximum abovethe floor (700mm deep)

1800 x 1200mm manoeuvring space in front and behind counter to allow convenient access

Minimum knee recess on reception side 650mm deep x 700mm clear high

Figure 8 Reception desk – key dimensions

The reception desk is designed for use from bothsides by people using wheelchairs

Internal features

Design the building to minimise the number ofdoors and the length of corridors that usershave to negotiate. Consider carefully the locationof internal columns and pillars; within theconstraints of the design these should not belocated in circulation areas. When this is notpossible the obstruction needs to be ‘highlighted’and protected by the use of appropriate detailsand decoration.

Corridors

● A minimum of 1200mm clear width must beprovided in all facilities, but generally thepreferred corridor width is 1500mm. Inlarger facilities or in those anticipating largenumbers of wheelchair users, the corridorwidth should be increased to 2000mm toallow wheelchair users to pass each otherfreely along main routes.

● Corridors must be wide enough to allowwheelchair users to approach and gaineasy access through doors off the corridor.


20

● Corridors should be unobstructed.

● Fire extinguishers, radiators, and so onshould not project into the clear corridorwidth to ensure they do not present ahazard to children, wheelchair users orvisually impaired people.

● Provide splayed or radius corners whereverpossible.

● Doors must not open out into corridors.

● Avoid glazing at the end of corridors.

Lobbies

● Minimise the number of internal lobbies asthey prevent efficient use of the facilities.

● Where they are necessary, all internallobbies should be of the appropriate sizeand layout.

Ramps

Avoid small changes in level in corridors wheneverpossible. However, where this is not practicable,overcome the change with a carefully designed

Whenever possible doors should be held open to minimise the number of barriers on a route way. Splayed wallsat corridor junctions will benefit visually impaired people and wheelchair users


21

1200mm min clear width to all facilities1500 preferred(2000 for larger schemes)

By providing a deeper recessat noticeboard areas, a passingpoint can be provided for twowheelchair users(1800 x 1800mm min)

Doors that need toswing out into corridorshould be ’protected’ bybeing set in a recess

Splayed walls at changes in direction will benefit wheelchair users and visually impaired people

1500mm turning circleto be maintainedin all facilities

Radiator, hose reels and so onset into recesses to maintaincorridor width

Doors across corridors must have viewing panels

Where double doors of unequal width are used, the wider doors should all be on the same side of the corridor and meet the minimum clear width requirement

Figure 9 Internal circulation

Radiators and other hazards should not project intocirculation areas

Where doors must swing out into a corridor theyshould be set in a recess


22

Table 5 Lobbies and single-leaf doors – minimum dimensions (mm)

Door size (no vision panels) Door size (with vision panels)

Layout 826 926 1026 826 926 1026

L W L W L W L W L W L W

A,B,C,D 3250 x1250 3450 x 1350 3650 x1450 2400 x1250 2500 x1350 2600 x1450

E,F 2400 x1250 2500 x1350 2500 x1450 2400 x1250 2500 x1350 2600 x1450

and detailed ramp. Where the complex is on twolevels the following provision must be made:

● Ramps should have a minimum clear widthof 1200mm.

● Ramps should be as flat as possible, with agradient between 1 in 20 and 1 in 15 and amaximum length of 10m between landings.

● In exceptional circumstances, short rampswith a maximum length of 5m betweenlandings may be incorporated with agradient no steeper than 1 in 12.

● Intermediate landings between rampsshould be at least 1500mm long.

● Ramps must be surfaced with firmly fixed,slip-resistant and easy to maintain material.

Stairs

● There must be clear width of 1.1m except insmall facilities where a minimum of 1m isacceptable.

● The maximum rise of each flight is 1.8mwith risers no greater than 170mm andtreads no less than 250mm.

Wherever possible, a ramped change in level shouldbe accompanied by a short flight of steps suitablefor ambulant disabled people who may find aramped surface difficult to negotiate. The steeperand more extensive the ramp configuration, themore important it is to provide a short flight of steps.


23

● All staircases must be fitted with a suitablehandrail on both sides (see later section).

● All landings must be level, at least 1.2mlong and clear of obstructions such as doorswings.

● All changes in level, including landings,must have a continuous handrail.

● Tapered treads, spiral stairs and openrisers must not be used.

● All stair nosings must be clearly visible andmade of contrasting slip-resistant material.The nosing should wrap around the riser sothat it extends between 30–50mm on thetread and 30mm down the riser.

● All staircases must be illuminated to at least100 lux at tread level and be designed toensure that people do not have to negotiatestairs in their own shadow.

● Avoid using shiny, polished materials thatcause glare.

● Tactile warnings can also be incorporatedinto handrails and floor surfaces at the topand bottom of stairs.

● Ensure open areas under stairs are freefrom head injury hazards.

Figure 10 Internal stair details


24

Handrails

● Handrails must be provided at all changesin level, however small, and give adequategrip and support.

● Colour or brightness should contrastagainst the background so that they areeasily distinguishable.

● They should be made from materials thatare comfortable to hold and not cold to thetouch, for example timber or nylon-coatedmetal.

● Handrails must have an outside diameter of45–50mm.

● Handrails must be continuous and fittedwith ‘returned ends’ a minimum of 300mmpast the top of the ramp or the first and lastrisers of a staircase.

● They should not project into the minimumclear width of the stair, ramp or corridor.

● They should be robustly fixed.

● Balustrades must be designed to providephysical and visual security.

Figure 11 Handrails – design

Handrail must be:• oval or circular in profile• contrasting in colour and luminance with

its background• easy and comfortable to grip• not cold to the touch• terminated at the ends so that clothes can

not be accidentally caught.

An oval handrail should preferably be 50mmwide by 38mm with 15mm radiused edges

50–60mmminclearance

40–50mmdiameter

50mm min to give handclearance above bracketor other obstruction orrail, to allow hands torun smoothly up anddown the rail

Clear width

Figure 12 Doors – clear widths

Clear width

Note: door needs toopen more than 90º tomaximise availableclear width

Note: clear widthavoids all projections,such as door furniture,weather boards anddoorstops

Doors

Design

Keep the number of doors to a minimum as theycan restrict progress. Doors can be heavy andawkward to operate if not properly designedand specified. Where they are necessary theyshould comply with the guidance below:

● All internal doors must be designed toprovide at least the minimum clear dooropening appropriate to the type and scaleof the facility.

● Double doors must have at least one leafthat provides the minimum clear openingappropriate to the type and scale of thefacility.

● Wherever possible, double doors shouldincorporate a double swing action ratherthan an interlocking arrangement, which ismore difficult to negotiate.

Location

● Locate all doors so that there is clear wallspace of at least 300mm to the leading


25

edge side. Ideally – and for sport-specificsituations – this should be increased to500mm.

● All doors should be designed and locatedso that they can swing to at least 90º, toensure maximum door opening.

● Doors should swing into rooms, not intocorridors. Where there is no alternative,doors swinging into a corridor must belocated in a recess or protected by aguardrail that leads people away from thedoor swing. Note that this guardrail mustnot restrict the minimum clear width of thecorridor.

Appearance

● Whenever possible, visibility panels shouldbe provided as they help prevent collisionswhen people are negotiating doors quickly.They also allow views of children and ofpeople in wheelchairs on the other side ofthe door.

● Position visibility panels so that theyaccommodate people’s eye levels whenstanding and sitting.

● Fully glazed doors can be a hazard tovisually impaired people. All glass doorsmust be clearly identified by contrastingbands of colour at 1050 and 1650mm

Minimum clearwidth (mm)

775 ● ● ● ● ●

875 ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ● ●

1000 ❍ ● ● ❍ ● ● ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ❍ ❍ ●

1200 ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ❍


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Table 6 Internal doors – requirements (except accessible toilets and changing rooms)

1100mm min clear of door swing

Door swing

Adjacent walls orother obstructionsmust be a minimumof 300mm clearof door edge

Figure 13 Doors – side clearances

above floor level. Equally, they should beclearly distinguishable from any adjacentglazing.

● Colour contrast should be used to helpdistinguish the doorframe from itssurroundings.

the door closed, use a lever handle.Doorknobs must not be used.

● Door handles and pull handles should belocated at a comfortable height forwheelchair and ambulant users.

● Door handles and pull handles shouldcontrast with the door.

● Use escutcheons that contrast with the faceof the door to aid location of keyholes.

● Provide a door pull on doors where noexternal handle is fitted so that it is notnecessary to use the door key.

● Do not use ‘break glass’ emergency boltsas they are obstacles for disabled people.Large push pads, which can be alarmed ifnecessary, should be used to allow speedydeparture from the building.


26

Door closers

Doors can act as barriers if great force isrequired to overcome the door closer. The doorcloser must be set to the minimum forcenecessary to close the door. The door designand installation must ensure that the maximumopening force does not exceed 20 newtons.

● Specify and install door closers to minimisethe effort needed to open the door.

● Do not set door closers at a high force levelin order to overcome badly fitting hinges orsmoke seals.

● Set door closers to give the maximumpossible time delay before closing.

● Doors that are easy to open benefiteveryone and are less likely to be abused.

● Wherever possible, use electromagneticcatches linked to the fire alarm to hold thedoor open during normal use.

● In large facilities and in those wheresignificant numbers of wheelchair usersare anticipated, consider installingautomatic internal doors, either linked to asensor or to suitably located push pads.

Door furniture

● Wherever possible doors must be fitted withironmongery to facilitate use by push or pulloperations.

● If it is necessary to install a door catch orlock rather than a latch mechanism to hold

800m

m

1150

mm

600m

m1350

mm

Minimum zoneof visibility

Single viewing panelNote: manifestation zone 1400–1600mm

Where it is necessary

to introduce a

horizontal member,

two viewing panels

should be provided as

shown, located within

the zone of visibility

Figure 14 Doors – location of vision panels

Split viewing panel


27

● There should be a minimum five-seconddelay to the lift door closing mechanism.

● Consider providing a fold-down seat inlarger lifts.

● An alarm button should be provided, with arepeater light to show that the alarm bellhas sounded.

● The emergency telephone in the lift mustincorporate inductive couplers for hearingaid users.

● In association with the fire officer and/orbuilding control officer, agree whether thelift is to be designed and designated for usein emergency evacuation.

At each floor level:

● There should be clear space of at least1500 x 1500mm in front of the lift.

● Opposite and adjacent to the lift thereshould be raised numerals/letters indicatingthe floor level.

Vertical platform

In exceptional circumstances where a passengerlift cannot be accommodated, short-rise verticalplatform lifts are acceptable in small facilities.These l i f ts can be par t icular ly useful in

Minimum cleardoor widthinto lift (mm)

800 ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

900 ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ❍ ● ● ● ● ● ●

1100 ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ❍ ❍

Short-rise vertical ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲platform lift

Key: ● Required ❍ Recommended ▲ May be acceptable

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Table 7 Lifts – requirements

Lifts

Passenger lift

The lift should be located close to the receptionand main circulation routes. Specification isas follows:

● The lift door must have a clear openingwidth appropriate to the size and scale ofthe facility.

● The internal lift space must be at least1100mm wide x 1400mm clear depthinternally and preferably 2000mm wide and1400mm deep.

● Within the car and at each landing theremust be audible announcements and aclear visual display of the level reached.

● The lift controls should be clearly distin-guishable and easy to operate, giving clearvisual and tactile indications of the floorbuttons pressed.

● Within the car the controls should belocated on a side wall.

● In addition to tactile markings to all controls,Braille markings can be provided.

● Accurate levelling at landings is critical.


28

Outside lift:● lift buttoning clearly visible against background● clearly visible ’lift coming’ indication plus audible signal● floor level indicator by raised sign (located adjacent and opposite lift)

Unobstructed floor space in front of lift door for convenient entry andmanoeuvring by people in wheelchairs

Height range1100mm max900mm min

’Photo eye’ to override door closer

Minimum car depth1400mm

Minimum car width 1100mm

Minimum clear opening (See Table 7)

Minimum 1500mm clear width 1500mm min

clear depth

900mm height(support rail)

Inside lift:● controls mounted on side wall (preferably both side walls)● easily visible, with raised control buttons● visual plus voice indication of floor reached● telephone with inductive coupler● alarm button with visual indication of level

Height range1200mm max900mm min

400mm

Figure 15 Lift – critical details

Note:

● Lift doors should remain open for five seconds to allow adequate time for entry.

● Lift doors must be easily distinguishable from the adjoining wall.

● Consider fold-down seats in larger lifts.


29

● management arrangements

● layout and construction of the building.

These two issues cannot be dealt with in isolationeven in the smallest facilities. Early consultationshould take place, initially between the architectand the building managers, to establish:

● potential number of disabled people whomay use and work at the facility

● nature of their impairment

● areas of the building they are likely to use.

Using this information an outline fire planevacuation strategy should be developed. In allbut the smallest projects the architect shouldthen consult with the building control officer andthe fire officer to obtain advice and guidance onthe proposed building and evacuation strategy.

Multi-storey buildings

In a multi-storey building great care must betaken to ensure that management of the facilitytakes account of disabled people’s needs –especially with regard to emergency evacuation.

As all parts of a sports facility must be accessibleto everyone, the basic assumption for evacuationprocedures is that everyone can make their way to a place of relative safety protected from fire and smoke whatever floor they are on.From this point they can be assisted either bymanagement or by the fire service.

Fire evacuation

The fire plan evacuation strategy must ensure that:

● every part of the building has a safe meansof escape in emergencies

● every escape route is fully usable byeveryone, including people with disabilities.

All evacuation plans must provide comprehensivemanagement procedures for the evacuation ofdisabled people:

● Make arrangements to ensure people inwheelchairs are assisted.

● Ensure people with walking or otherimpairment are helped up or downstairways.

existing buildings where a significant change inlevel would necessitate an extensive ramparrangement or where space is limited. Notethe following details:

● suitable for changes in level up to 2.0mwithout a lift enclosure where there is nofloor penetration

● suitable up to 4.0m where there is anenclosure

● greater heights will require a relaxation ofthe regulation by the building control officer

● lifts should comply with BS 6440

● minimum clear platform size must be atleast 1100mm wide x 1250mm long.

Wheelchair stair lift

This is not an acceptable means of access forany type of sports facility and could be a hazardif fitted on escape stairs.

Emergency escape

Detailed guidance on means of escape fordisabled people is given in BS 5588: Part 8Code of Practice for Means of Escape forDisabled People (1988). The main requirementsfor a sports facility are set out below.

Planning

Give detailed consideration to how disabledpeople will be evacuated from the building at an early stage of the project. Their safe andsuccessful evacuation is dependent upon:

can communicate with people occupyingrefuge areas. The specification of theintercom system must be agreed with thefire officer at an early stage in thedevelopment of the project.

● Where a refuge is located in a lobby orstairway a sign must be displayed: ‘Refuge –Keep clear’. This sign is mandatory.

Evacuation lift

To operate in the event of fire, an evacuation lift must:

● be a passenger lift that is always availablefor evacuation purposes

● comply with BS 8300 and BS 5655–1 or –2

● be within a fire-protected shaft and have itsown independent electrical supply andcontrol

● be clearly signed

● be located so as to be associated with arefuge

● be within a protected enclosure, that is, thelift shaft itself and have protected lobbies ateach floor level and a direct route to theoutside at the exit level.

In a building over two storeys, install a communi-cations system to relay information to theperson operating the lift car.

Note that a goods lift cannot be operated as anevacuation lift.

Sounders/alarms

In large facilities supplement audible alarmswith approved flashing beacons for people witha hearing impairment. The beacons should belocated in areas where people with a hearingimpairment might find themselves alone andunaware that an emergency evacuation alarmhad been sounded.

In smaller facilities consideration should be givento providing personal vibrating pagers linked tothe alarm system.


30

● All fire exits on the ground floor should havelevel access.

● Where there is spectator seating the designshould provide a means of escape fordisabled spectators without placingrestrictions on where they sit.

● The number of disabled people using asports facility will vary significantlyaccording to the nature of the use, rangingfrom an individual user to large numbers ofparticipants, spectators and officials atlarge competitions. The evacuation planmust anticipate these situations and ensurethe adequacy of the design and ofmanagement procedures.

Refuges

Disabled people will often need to rest or waitfor assistance, for example before negotiating aflight of stairs. To achieve this the design mightincorporate the use of ‘refuges’ on escaperoutes, together with an evacuation lift. Refugesare places of relative safety where disabledpeople can wait for short periods of time beforemaking their way to the final exit.

Existing buildings often have spaces that canbe used as refuges without the need to createnew areas.

● The minimum size for a refuge is 900 x1400mm except in facilities such as sportshalls that are likely to accommodate sports-chairs. In such cases the minimum size is1200 x 1500mm.

● The potential number of wheelchair userswill determine the size of the refuge.

● The location of refuges, and wheelchairspaces within them, must not hamper themeans of escape.

● A refuge of suitable size must be providedat each floor level for every fire escapestaircase.

● The refuge area must not restrict theescape width.

● In large, complex sports facilities it isessential that the management/fire officer


31

3

6

7

89

10

11

12

2 4

5

13

4

14 14

13

15

1

800m

m

400mm 750mm min

fall

1600mm min

1000

mm

500m

m

1000mm

1750

mm

min

Key

1 Robust 500 x 500mm shower drop-downseat with horizontal and vertical grabrails togive extra support to users

2 Horizontal grabrail in drying area gives extrasupport and can be used as a towel rail

3 Simple, safe falls to drainage channel

4 Slip-resistant floors

5 Level threshold between changing andshower areas

6 Minimum 1m2 per person in changing area

7 1500mm minimum turning circle to bemaintained in the changing area in front ofbenches

8 WCs and wash basins can be plannedadjacent to shower area – where spaceallows design cubicle to be suitable forambulant disabled people

9 Minimum 300mm clear (450 preferred) fromdoor edge to wall

10 Entrance lobby provides privacy byscreening the changing area but maintainsthe minimum clear width of 1000mm

11 Benches 450mm minimum width (500preferred) set at height 480mm with asmooth finish to surfaces and edges

12 Towel hooks in shower located alternatelyat 1400 and 1050mm

13 Ensure adequate colour and tonal contrastbetween fittings, walls, ceilings, floors andso on to assist people with visualimpairment

14 Locate coat hooks so that they can beaccessed by everyone

15 Locate signs on wall adjacent to door edgeto allow easy identification of the changingfacilities

Figure 16 Key design requirements for all changing areas

an individual unisex accessible changing roomcomplete with shower and toilet. This enablesassistance to be given by someone of theopposite sex.

The key design requirements are set out below. For sport-specific requirements see thelater sections.

Changing areas

All changing areas must be designed so thatdisabled people can use them. This does notnecessitate expensive design features but itdoes require attention to detail and layout. Inaddition, all spor ts facilities, except thoseserving only grass pitches, must always provide

Main changing areas

Layout

A well-designed layout is critical to achievingmaximum access. Careless design can reducea person’s independence and, at worst,physically prevent use of a facility. It is thereforeessential that:

● sufficient space is provided formanoeuvring wheelchairs

● allowance is made for a wheelchair user tochange without obstructing other users

● direct access is provided to the showerarea from the changing room

● toilet provision is in very close proximity tothe changing area.

Some disabled users may prefer the privacy ofan individual cubicle and, wherever possible,these should be provided.

Where significant wheelchair use is anticipated,for example where wheelchair team sports couldbe played, the layout and design of the changingarea must reflect this. This might include:

● an individual accessible changing cubicle orcubicles within the main ‘team’ changingarea, which can double up as familychanging to allow personal privacy withinthe team context

● where appropriate these individualaccessible cubicles can be fitted withsupport facilities such as hoists andadditional rails.


32

Grooming area withappropriately locatedfittings to give accessto wheelchair users

A range of locker sizesmust be provided toaccommodate aids

By providing a drop-down seat with theappropriate fixed rails,the main shower areacan be made more accessible. All shower areas should incorporate these facilities

Buffer changing areas can beused as additional privatechanging by incorporating drop-down rails and hinged benching

* Increase to 1000mm in indoor tennis centres

1500mm min

*875mm min clear opening

1800mm

1500mm min betweenseating/cubicles

1500mm preferred1200mm min

1000mmmin clear

1500 x 1500mmmanoeuvring space

Figure 17 Ensure main changing areas are accessible


33

Benches

● All benches must have a minimum depth of450 – ideally 500mm – and be set at aheight of 450mm to allow easy transferfrom a wheelchair.

● Additional non-toxic foam matting will benecessary to lay over the benching as extraprotection for people with sensitive skin.The matting should be kept readilyavailable in a convenient store.

● Where wheelchair competitions are likelybut infrequent events, consider makingsome movable benching available toprovide temporary additional manoeuvringspace for extra wheelchair users.

● Many sports facilities incorporate ‘buffer’changing spaces to accommodate peakdemand on changing provision. When notrequired, and if designed correctly, thesespaces can provide additional privatechanging for disabled users.

Coat hooks

● Alternate coat hooks should be located1400 and 1050mm above floor level toenable use by children and wheelchairusers.

Lockers

● Sufficient lockers should be set at heightsbetween 400mm and 800mm and be atleast 300mm wide.

● Ten per cent of lockers should be at least1200mm high to accommodate mobilityaids and so on. Ideally some full-heightlockers must be provided.

● Locks must be positioned no higher than1150mm and be easy to operate one-handed by a person with poor dexterity orlimited hand or arm strength.

● Locks and lockers should incorporate tactilenumbers.

● Where there are large banks of lockerssome form of orientation assistance shouldbe given, for example by using very strongcolour contrasts and/or symbols and byreplicating this as part of the key design.

Equipment

● Chairs for use in pools, showers and otherwet areas should be readily available.There must be enough floor space toenable the user to transfer from his or herchair onto the shower chair.

Hairdryers/mirrors

● Position these to allow everyone to usethem.

Heating

● To avoid accidentally burning children andpeople with insensitive skin, heating pipesand heating equipment must be carefullylocated and fitted with thermostatic controls.

Unisex accessible changing

Minimum provision is indicated in Table 8 onpage 36, however consider providing additionalspaces to meet likely demand. Generally, whateverchanging is provided it must be complementedwith unisex accessible changing facilities.

● Dedicated accessible changing areas allowa helper from the opposite sex to provideassistance in privacy.

● Each room must contain a tip-up seat,shower, WC and washbasin and meet thedimensional criteria set out in Figure 18.

● Unisex accessible changing rooms must beclearly signposted.

● Layout and relationships to other areas arecritical.

● Dedicated lockers must be located outsidethe changing area to allow access by morethan one person.

● Except in small sports facilities that serveonly grass pitches, there must be at leastone unisex accessible changing room. Thenumber of accessible changing roomsprovided will depend on the type and scaleof the facility.

● The design and quality of the changingarea should be similar to the otherchanging facilities; fittings must contrastclearly with their background.


34

250m

m60

0mm

50m

m

2200

mm

min

380mm 320mm

500m

m

500mm 150mm320mm

2500mm

500mm

250m

m60

0mm

60m

m

300m

m

200m

m

600m

m

200m

m

11

1

9

7

3

10

6

5

21 4

22

3

6

20

13

13

14

5

18

17

2

2

16

12

1

2

12

15

19

8

Key

1 Two clothes hooks set at 1400mmand 1050mm above floor level

2 Drop-down rail

3 Fixed vertical rail

4 Provide ‘secure’ low level cistern orconcealed cistern with duct fittedwith horizontal grabrail. Note: flushto be located on transfer side

5 Fixed horizontal grabrail

6 Fixed vertical rail and adjacentalarm pull-chord with two redtriangles

7 Automatic hand dryer

8 Low shelf with rounded arris

9 Disposal bin for miscellaneous itemswith sanitary dispenser above (750–1000mm above floor level)

10 Hand basin

11 Horizontal door pull to enable doorto be closed when entering

12 It is essential to keep the areaadjacent to the WC clear to allowtransfer onto the WC

13 Alternative door position

14 Horizontal grabrail used as towel rail

15 Padded tip-up shower seat withback rest. Front edge set600–700mm from back wall to allowlateral transfer

16 Shower controls – lever-operated,thermostatically controlled (max41ºC)

17 Shower curtain and rail

18 Floors layed with simple falls to flushgully or grating

19 Minimum clearance 875mm; 975mmin large facilities and tennis centres

20 Mirror 1000mm high, located500mm above floor

21 Colostomy changing shelf forambulant users 950mm above floorlevel

22 Transferring from a wheelchair to aWC imposes significant forces,therefore all fittings should berobust. Wing nut fixings should notbe used to secure the toilet seat

Note: See Figure 25 for key verticaldimensions and fittings for accessibleWCs and changing areas.

14

20

18

1

14

14

15

19

1

16 18

6

5

1500 x 1500mm min wheelchair turning space

2000

min

(nt

s)

2200mm min

380m

m32

0mm

500mm

500m

m

Figure 18 Unisex accessible changing room with shower andWC 2.5 x 2.2m (left hand transfer)

Figure 19 Accessible changing area with shower (left hand transfer)


35

900mm

750mm

250m

m

1500 x 1500mm minimum wheelchair turning space

600m

m

2200

mm

min

500mm 150mm320mm

2700mm min

1217

2

15

1856 16

12

10

21 34

6

5 22

8

7

3

11

1 2014

3

9

19

13

Figure 20 Accessible changing room with shower and WC

Key


2 Drop-down rail







9 Disposal bin for miscellaneous itemswith sanitary dispenser above (750–1000mm above floor level)

10 Hand basin




14 Horizontal grabrail used as towel rail

15 Padded tip-up shower seat withback rest. Front edge set 600–700mm from back wall to allowlateral transfer

16 Shower controls – lever-operated,thermostatically controlled (max41ºC)

17 Shower curtain and rail

18 Floors with simple falls to flush gullyor grating

19 Minimum clearance 875mm; 975mmin large facilities and tennis centres

20 Mirror 1000mm high, located500mm above floor



500mm

480m

m68

0mm

2000mm

1200mm

Zone for adjustableheight shower head

Zone forshowercontrols

Drop-down rail

Drop-down shower seat

Fixedshowerhead

1000mm

750mm

100mm

600 700mm

Figure 21 Key vertical dimensions to accessible shower area

Showers

● All shower areas must be usable byeveryone. An area designed to meet theneeds of disabled users will accommodateuse by non-disabled people.

● Except in small pavilions serving onlynatural grass pitches, all shower areasmust be fitted with at least one drop-downseat and appropriate grabrails. The seatmust fold up out of the way when notrequired.

● Shower seats must not be fitted withvertical support struts as these impedeaccess.

● Large facilities must provide a shower chairthat can be conveniently stored when not inuse.

● Shower controls must be lever-operatedand located at an accessible height. Theymust be thermostatically controlled with amaximum temperature of 41°C.

● Floor finishes must be slip-resistant evenwhen wet.

● Water must be contained in the wet area.


36

● Avoid complex falls in the floor that willmake standing or manoeuvring a chairdifficult and hazardous; the slope must besimple and shallow.

● Upstands separating wet and dry zonesmust not be used.

● Design the shower area so that awheelchair user can transfer to a seatwithin the wet area without getting thewheelchair wet, and so that the wheelchairis within reach.

● In larger facilities shower curtains or robusthinged or folding screens should beprovided to give additional privacy.

Provision

One unisex changing ❍ ● ● ● ● 2 2 2 ● ● 2 ● ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ● ● 2room and WC (min)

In addition provide anaccessible cubicle within ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ●the main changing area

Changing rooms largeenough for wheelchair ● ● ● ●teams


Clu

bh

ou

ses/

pav

ilio

ns

gen

eral

ly

Fu

ll-si

ze s

ynth

etic

pitc

h

Mu

lti-u

se g

ames

are

a

Fitn

ess

equ

ipm

ent r

oo

m

Fou

r-co

urt

sp

ort

s h

all

Six

-co

urt

sp

ort

s h

all

Nin

e-co

urt

sp

ort

s h

all o

r la

rger

Cri

cket

ind

oo

r

Gym

nas

tics

hal

l

Ten

nis

ind

oo

r

Ten

nis

ou

tdo

or

Bow

ls in

do

or

Bow

ls o

utd

oo

r

Tab

le te

nn

is c

entr

e

Ath

letic

s in

do

or

Ath

letic

s o

utd

oo

r

20m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

25m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

50m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

Clu

bh

ou

ses/

pav

ilio

ns

(ser

vin

go

nly

nat

ura

l tu

rfp

itch

es)

Table 8 Changing areas – requirements


37

1

3

2

2 4

750mm

Dry-off area with slip-resistantsurface layed to simple falls

Level threshold

750mm400mm

1750

mm

min

500m

m

1000mm min

Key

1 500 x 500mm tip-up showerseat set in corner with grabrailset on shower head wall

2 600mm long horizontal grabrailproviding additional support andcan be used as towel rail

3 Towel hooks set at alternateheights of 1400 and 1050mm

4 Shower controls set at 1000mmabove floor level with twoshower heads at 1400 and1800mm above floor level

Note: Where practicable, provide aprivacy curtain, drop-down grabrailand emergency pull-cord with twored triangles.

Figure 22 Typical shower area for general use

1000

mm

min

2200

mm

min

1500 x 1500mm min manoeuvring space required

1500mm min

1200mm

Horizontal grabrailfirmly fixed to actas a towel rail and additional support

Standard shower fittings in corner – where possible incorporate alternative handling

500mm

1200mm

320mm

4

12

Figure 23 Accessible shower cubicle incorporated into main shower cubicle run


38

Toilet provision

Unisex accessible provision

All sports facilities must have at least one clearlysignposted unisex accessible WC cubicle onevery floor of the facility. Unisex provisionallows helpers of the opposite sex to giveassistance, which would not be possible if theaccessible toilet provision were within adedicated male or female area.

The provision of accessible toilet cubicles withindedicated male or female areas is consideredto be additional provision and cannot replaceunisex provision.

It should be noted that these toilets are used bypeople with a wide range of disabilities and not,as is often presumed, by wheelchair users only.

● The cubicle must be accessible from allareas of the facility including the social,refreshment, changing and staff areas.

● Every part of the sports facility, includingthe pool or field, must be within 40m of aunisex accessible WC.

● The cubicle should be located close to thechanging areas unless there are dedicatedunisex accessible changing rooms incorpo-rating WCs within the changing areas. Inthat case the cubicle should be locatedclose to the entrance to the main facility sothat it can serve visitors and spectators aswell as participants and staff.

● The scale and type of the facility willdetermine the number of accessible toilets.However, unisex accessible toilets must beprovided wherever there is toilet accommo-dation.

Design

The layout and dimensions of an accessibletoilet are critical to ensure that the cubicle willbe properly and safely used.

Minimum provision

Accessible unisex WCcompartment on each ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●floor (can be shared withunisex changing)*Dedicated unisex WCcompartment (in additionto any provision withinunisex changing). ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● 2 ● ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ● ●Numbers/flow to bedetermined by the sizeand layout of the building*Provide a minimum of atleast one cubicle each within the ‘general’ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ❍ ● ● ● ● ❍ ● ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ● ❍ ❍ ● ●male and female toilets suitable for an ambulant disabled person

Key: ● Required ❍ Desirable* Unisex accessible toilets must be located wherever there is general toilet provision

Clu

bh

ou

ses/

pav

ilio

ns

gen

eral

ly

Fu

ll-si

ze s

ynth

etic

pitc

h

Mu

lti-u

se g

ames

are

a

Fitn

ess

equ

ipm

ent r

oo

m

Fou

r-co

urt

sp

ort

s h

all

Six

-co

urt

sp

ort

s h

all

Nin

e-co

urt

sp

ort

s h

all o

r la

rger

Cri

cket

ind

oo

r

Gym

nas

tics

hal

l

Ten

nis

ind

oo

r

Ten

nis

ou

tdo

or

Bow

ls in

do

or

Bow

ls o

utd

oo

r

Tab

le te

nn

is c

entr

e

Ath

letic

s in

do

or

Ath

letic

s o

utd

oo

r

20m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

25m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

50m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

Clu

bh

ou

ses/

pav

ilio

ns

(ser

vin

go

nly

nat

ura

l tu

rfp

itch

es)

Table 9 Accessible toilet provision – requirements


39

11

17

14

1

8

7

3

10

12

3

2

139

6

5

15 4

16

200m

m60

0mm

50m

m

2200

mm

min

500mm 150mm320mm

1500mm min

1500 x 1500mm minimum wheelchair turning space

Key


2 Drop-down rail







9 Disposal bin for miscellaneousitems with sanitary dispenserabove (750–1000mm above floorlevel)

10 Hand basin




14 Mirror 1000mm high, located600mm above floor level



17 1000mm door set giving aminimum clearance of 875mm.(Note: for large tennis facilitiesincrease to 1100mm door set with975mm min clearance)

18 Toilet paper dispenser

19 Alarm reset button

20 Paper towel dispenser

21 Soap dispenser

22 Shelf and sanitary dispenser withcontrols located between 800–1000mm above floor level

Figure 24 Standard unisex accessible WC (left hand transfer)

480mm

200mm

120mm

600mm

740m

m

800

–10

00m

m

1921

7 2220

100mm

18

Figure 25 Key vertical dimensions and fittings to accessibleWC and changing area

All fittings to contrast with their backgrounds


40

19

4

8

7

5

6

2

3

1500mm

1750mm

2200

mm

min

900mm min

900mm

900mmmin

800mm

Key

1 1500 x 1500mm wheelchair spaceto hand basin

2 Hand basin set at 720–740mm highto be suitable for wheelchair andambulant disabled users

3 Accessible WC cubicle

4 1400 deep by 900mm widewheelchair space

5 Urinals set at 500mm maximumheight, except urinal installation forwheelchair users, which should beset at 400mm max height

6 Vertical grabrails (set at 1100mmcentre line height above floor level)for wheelchair users – keep spaceclear of pipework

7 Suitably designed access lobbygiving privacy with ease of access

8 Cubicle for ambulant disabledpeople

9 Hand dryers set at 1000mm abovefloor level

Figure 26 General toilet provision incorporatingwheelchair accessible toilet facilities

● The standard layout will allow most users towash and dry their hands while seated onthe WC before transferring back to theirchair.

● Where it is necessary to incorporate fittingssuch as radiators, vending machines,sanitary disposal units and wastepaperbins, these must be recessed or located sothat they do not obstruct the definedmanoeuvring space.

● Ensure that pipe boxing is carefullydesigned so that it does not restrictmovement or create a hazard.

● Where more than one accessible toilet isprovided a layout with the oppositeorientation to the standard layout should beincorporated to give access from bothsides.

● The appearance of an accessible toilet isimportant – it must not appear to be‘medical’. There is no reason why it shouldnot have the same standard of finish andappearance as the rest of the facility.

● Ensure that the door opening is located sothat there is a degree of screening from themain circulation areas. This will mean thatthe WC cannot be seen if the door is ajarwhen the cubicle is not in use. Moreimportantly, it will prevent a user being seenwhile their helper is exiting or entering thecubicle.

● Use plastic-coated handrails and grabrails.

Religious and cultural considerations

It is important that designers consider carefullythe religious and cultural implications of theirproposals and consult closely with local users.For example, a scheme serving a Moslemcommunity will have aspects of toiletry andhygiene that require careful design. Communalshower/changing facilities and urinal troughswould be unacceptable given the requirementfor complete visual privacy and there might be aneed for ancillary facilities, such as a bidet orother sluice arrangements. Additionally, theorientation of facilities could be critical.


41

1

46

5

2

3

800mm 1200mm min 360mm projection to urinal

1500

mm

min

800mm(900 preferred)

760m

m

875mmmin clear

Key

1 Cubicle for ambulantdisabled people

2 Note outward opening doorprotected by wall

3 1100 x 800mmunobstructed spacerequired around washbasinfor use by ambulantdisabled people(780–800mm above floorlevel)

4 Urinal set at 500mm abovefloor level with verticalgrabrails (to both sides at760mm centres) toaccommodate ambulantdisabled users

5 Grabrails set at 1100mmcentre line height

6 Suitably designed entrancelobby giving privacy withease of access

Figure 28 General toilet provision incorporating accessfor ambulant disabled people

Ideally, door swingprotected

Outward opening door fitted with grabrail on inner face

Lock mechanismto incorporate emergency release

800m

m

500mm

1500mm min

200mm

Note: Whenever possible, incorporate one male and one female cubicle into the general provision

400mm 100mm

2

3

3

4

1

Key

1 Clothes hook set 1400mmabove floor level

2 600mm long verticalgrabrail located 800mmabove floor level

3 600mm rail set horizontally680mm above floor level

4 WC seat 480mm abovefloor level

General provision

Except in small facil i t ies a larger cubicle should be incorporated within each generalmale and female toilet area for use by peoplewho are not in wheelchairs but have particularrequirements including:

● elderly people

● carers accompanying small children

● people of limited ambulancy with a need forequipment such as walkers, crutches,higher seat levels.

Within each general male toilet area one of theurinals should be fitted with a short grabrail.

Figure 27 Accessible WC cubicle suitable for ambulant disabled people

● Seating must be arranged to allow peoplein wheelchairs to sit alongside otherswithout obstructing the general circulationroutes.

● Seating must contrast in colour andluminance with the surrounding surfaces.

● Seating areas should be acoustically ‘quiet’to allow easy conversation.

Servery

● Bars and self-service counters must beaccessible.

● Provide a section lowered to 750–800mmabove the floor with a clear space of700–750mm underneath.

● Induction loops must be fitted at counters inlarge facilities such as sports halls andswimming pools.

● Ensure that poor lighting does not reducepeople’s ability to lip-read by creatingreflections off glass cabinets or by castingshadows across the speaker’s face.

● Where tray slides are used, they should becontinuous to the till.

Vending machines

● These must have clear display panels andinstructions.

● The coin slot must be no higher than1200mm above floor level.

● There must be adequate manoeuvringspace in front of the vending machine.


42

Social areas

Social areas must give unhindered access todisabled people who should be able to use themindependently or with companions. All corridorsand doors leading to refreshment /social areasmust comply with the minimum space standardsfor the facility.

Layout

● Gangways in areas between tables, and soon, should have at least 1200mm clearwidth.

● Tables and chairs should be placed in aregular layout rather than a random, difficultto understand arrangement.

Furniture

● Furniture should be stable but movable toallow maximum access within social areas.

● Tables must have a clear undertop height ofat least 700–750mm to allow a wheelchairto be drawn in.

Seating

● Seating must be provided wherever peoplemight need to wait.

● Where provided, seating should be stableand easy to rise from.

● Seats should be upholstered in absorbentmaterial.

● They should incorporate fittings with andwithout armrests.

Appropriate colour schemes and furniture cancreate an accessible and inviting interior

Address access issues and integrate solutions intothe design to create interesting facilities for everyone


43

Public address systems

These should be clearly audible and, whereverpracticable, supplemented by visual information.

Textphones

Deaf people use textphones to communicateover the telephone.

● Two-way textual messages can becommunicated over the telephone line.

● All large sports facilities must be equippedwith a textphone to facilitate telephonebookings and general communication bystaff or users with a hearing impairment.

Induction loops and infrared systems

Induction loops help people obtain information,for example at a reception counter or from aspeaker in a meeting room. Sound from thespeaker is picked up by a microphone and re-broadcast via a loop aerial. Setting hearing aidsto the ‘T’ position helps cut out backgroundsound. Induction loops that comply with BS 7594and BS EN 60118–4 must be fitted:

● at reception counters

● in meeting rooms

● in dance and exercise areas

● in other areas where information is given.

Door handles,lightswitchaligned 1000mm

Suspended signs 2300mm

Lift controls900mm min1200 max

Wall-mounted signs1400mm min 1700 max

Use colour and tone to ensure the controls are distinguishable from their backgrounds

Figure 28 Signs and controls – consistent positioning is critical

Room signs locatedadjacent to door openedge – not on door

Fixtures and fittings

Public telephones

Access to a telephone is particularly importantto help disabled people maintain theirindependence. Except for small pavilions andclubhouses, all sports facilities should have apublic telephone that can be used by everyone.This means that they:

● should be located where there is minimumbackground noise and be approachablefrom the front and the side

● must be fixed to allow access by childrenand people in wheelchairs

● must be fitted with an inductive coupler tohelp hearing aid users

● must have a raised tactile button on thecentral numeral

● must have a shelf to enable the use of aportable textphone

● must be clearly signposted and locatedwhere they will not create an obstruction orhazard

● must have an unobstructed space of 1200x 1200mm in front of the telephone.

There is a chance that people wearing hearingaids in adjacent rooms may experience ‘overlap’.This may be a problem for committee rooms orrooms where confidentiality is important, and inthese cases it may be more suitable to use aninfrared system.

Infrared systems work by converting the soundinto an infrared light signal and users wear aspecial headset to pick up the signal.

Controls

● All controls should be clearly visible againstthe background. This means good lightingand the use of contrasting colours.

● Controls must be located in a consistentand logical manner and should beaccessible to someone in a wheelchaireither as a user or as a member of staff.

● Wherever possible consider the use ofembossed tactile buttons and controls foruse by staff and users.

Signs

People with hearing and visual impairment makeup the largest group of disabled people. Boththese groups can be helped or hindered bysignage. Good signage can mean that a personwith a hearing disability can manage withouthaving to ask questions, and it can help aperson with a visual disability to navigate afacility more effectively.

● Signs inform and provide reassurance.

● Signs give people one of their firstimpressions of a facility and contributesignificantly to the character and aestheticof the building.

The following notes set out clear requirementsfor a good signage scheme. They are intendedto provide the basic information around whichan imaginative and effective scheme can becreated. For detailed information on signagerefer to the Sign Design Guide: a guide toinclusive signage published by the Sign DesignSociety and JMU Access Par tnership (seecontact addresses).


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General requirements

● To avoid confusion keep the number ofsigns to a minimum, but ensure that thereare sufficient to create an easilyunderstood chain of information.

● Location is critical to allow visually impairedpeople to get as close as possible to thesign to see it or read it by touch.

● Signage must be consistent in location andstyle throughout the building.

● Signs must be obvious, identifiable, clearand legible.

● Wherever possible, signs shouldincorporate words and symbols. Only usestandard symbols that are easy tounderstand.

● Signs should be within easy reach andhave embossed letters, raised pictogramsand direction arrows.

● Signs must be suitably illuminated andlocated so they are free from glare.

● The use of suspended signs should beavoided wherever possible. Where they arerequired the size of the text and signshould be adequate to allow it to be readfrom a distance.

● Signs must not have sharp edges and mustnot cause an obstruction.

Clear simple signs with strong contrast betweenlettering and background, and between the sign andthe adjacent space are essential


45

There should be 25mm of lettering forevery 7.5m of viewing distance. Forexample, a 30m viewing distance willrequire lettering of at least 100mm.

● Tactile characters must be embossed orraised to an approximate thickness of1–1.5mm and must not be engraved.

● All signs must be in colours that contrastwith the background, 75% being theoptimum contrast.

● Similarly, the sign characters must contrastwith the sign background.

● Sign borders will enable a sign to belocated on both light and darkbackgrounds.

● Signs must be non-reflective with a glossfactor no greater than 15%.

Braille

Braille comprises sequences of fine dots, proudof the surface, read by passing the fingers acrossthem. It is the method of reading used by peoplewith a visual impairment or total blindness.

● If possible, Braille should be used whereverembossed characters are used.

● Braille must be English Standard Braille.

● Grade 1 Braille should be used for singlewords and short descriptions.

● Grade 2 Braille should be used where it isnecessary to reduce the length of multi-word signs.

● Braille signs must incorporate a markersuch as a notch at the left hand side to helplocate the Braille message.

● Wall-mounted information boards should beprovided at lift landings, floor landings onstaircases and at other major decisionpoints in main circulation routes.

● Signs to rooms, with the exception oftoilets, should be placed on the wall of theleading edge side of the door so that thesign is visible even when the door is open.

Design

● The sign layout should be clear and logical.

● Text must always be left justified exceptwhere directional arrows are incorporated.Where arrows are used the text should bejustified on the side of the directionindicated. For example, on right-pointingarrows text should be justified on the right.

● Where text and arrows indicate ‘straightahead’ they should be placed at the top ofthe sign with arrows on both sides of thetext.

● Text signs must be a mixture of upper andlower case letters – this is because wordsare recognised by shape rather than byindividual letters.

● The font style should be Helvetica-typesans serif or a similar uncomplicated style.Serif-type fonts can be used but only wheredetailed guidance has been sought.

● The spacing between characters should beincreased by 20–30% to suit the fontchosen.

● The spacing between words should beincreased by around 25%.

● The size of text on a sign must beconsistent.

● Assuming an internal viewing distance of5m, text on directional signs should be atleast 40mm (capital height). On signsshowing orientation, general informationand identification, including door signs, itshould be at least 25mm (capital height). Ata 2m viewing distance this can be reducedto 25mm and 20mm respectively.

● Lettering for external directional signsshould be at least 75mm (capital height).


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Visual requirements

Colour and tone

Colour must be carefully considered to enhancethe facility’s aesthetic qualities and to optimisethe practical use of the building, particularly theability of visually impaired people to movearound without difficulty.

Of people registered blind or partially sighted,96% have some degree of vision that can besignificantly enhanced by good use of colour,luminance and textured surfaces.

When moving through a building, a visuallyimpaired person tries to find contrast betweenlarge areas of colour, such as the junctionbetween a wall and ceiling. This technique givesthem clues to where they are and the size of thespace they are in.

Research has shown that colour and tonaldifferentiation between ceilings, walls, doorsand floors makes a significant difference tovisually impaired people as they navigate abuilding. Tonal contrast is as impor tant ascolour contrast. Some sight conditions can leadto confusion between similar colours and tones.

Finishes

The correct selection of finish is very important,particularly to assist people with a disability.Unsuitable finishes can make the buildingdifficult to use and can lead to confusion and,possibly, danger.

Acoustic requirements

Spaces enclosed exclusively with hard surfacesare not acceptable. They produce noisyreverberations that confuse people with hearingimpairment, and sometimes those with visualimpairment who may use their hearing to obtainnavigational clues.

● All rooms and spaces should have somesoft, sound-absorbent surfaces to provide asuitably quiet acoustic environment.

● Where possible, separate quiet and noisyareas by buffer zones.

● Electrical/heating and ventilation equipmentshould be specified to minimisebackground noise. High levels ofbackground noise can be distracting andtiring for people with hearing impairment.


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● Colour schemes should not be monotonousor bland.

● Ceiling colours must be sufficiently differentfrom wall colours.

● Wall colours must be sufficiently differentfrom ceiling and floor colours.

● Door colours must be sufficiently differentfrom wall colours.

● Floor and stair colours should besufficiently different from adjoining wallcolours.

These contrasts should be incorporated into theoverall colour scheme and not imposed upon it.

● Do not use extreme contrasts in colour inirregular, busy, geometric or stripedpatterns.

● The colour used for a trim feature, such asa skirting or architrave, must not be anintermediate of the colours of two adjoiningcritical surfaces. This colour shouldmaintain or improve the impact of thedifferent colours used.

● Paint manufacturers can supply tables thatdefine the minimum colour contrastthresholds required to assist visuallyimpaired people, and so help to create aninterior that is acceptable to everyone.

Surface

● Walls and floors with a glossy appearanceconfuse visually impaired people.

● Shiny surfaces must be avoided. Glare andreflection make it difficult for people to lip-read.

● Use matt or mid-sheen finishes to obtainthe maximum benefit from colour differen-tiation.

Tactile requirements

Variation in surface texture provides importantinformation, particularly to visually impairedpeople. It can:

● warn of hazards

● give information that helps identify location.

Walls

● Avoid large repeating patterns with boldcontrasting colours that might distractpeople when they are lip-reading – at areception counter or in a meeting room, forexample.

● Tiling, like all wall surface colour, should beused to provide a pleasing contrast tofittings, rails and so on. For example, the 'allwhite' appearance of sanitary fittings andwhite wall tiling is not an acceptablecombination.

● Consider carefully the texture of walls assome users depend upon contact to gainsupport and orientation.

Floors

The look, texture and acoustic quality of flooringcan affect the way a building is used. If chosencorrectly it can give directions, suggest the typeof activity space and help to create theappropriate atmosphere. All flooring must be:

● firmly fixed to ensure safety and ease ofmovement by wheelchair users andambulant disabled people

● free of tripping hazards, particularly at thejunction between materials

Contrasting colours facilitate court markings andcontribute to a bright environment

A ‘prohibitive’ tactile surface must be used toprotect visually impaired users from high-levelprotruding features. However, this should be alast resort. Wherever possible, the designshould exclude such hazards.

Glass walls

● should conform to BS 6262

● should be highlighted with colouredwarnings (not treated glass) at least150mm square that contrast with thesurface and are located at 1050mm to bevisible to wheelchair users, and at 1500mmto be at eye level for ambulant people

● should be constructed with non-reflectiveglass

● freestanding edges of the glazed screenshould be highlighted with a strip ofcontrasting colour and luminance to itssurroundings.

Ceilings

Ceilings usually provide the best opportunity for the provision of acoustic absorbency.However, traditional tiled suspended ceilingshave a very limited life in public buildings andshould be avoided.


48

● able to withstand marks left by wheelchairsand other mobility aids so that users arenot restricted by over-protectivemanagement regimes

● slip-resistant.

Carpeting must have a shallow, dense, non-directional pile.

In areas that may become wet, such as thebuilding entrance, changing and shower areasor poolside, it is especially important to usespecifically anti-slip surfaces or safety flooring.

● In wet areas adequate heating is essentialand falls must be provided to keep the flooras dry as possible.

● Highly polished floors are unacceptable asthey are slippery and may look wet, whichmay affect the way a person moves acrossthem.

● Glossy floors will reflect overhead lights,causing confusion and discomfort for somevisually impaired people.

Tactile floors

For the visually impaired person, changes in thetexture of the floor surface can warn of potentialhazards and give directional information. TheRoyal National Institute for the Blind recommendsthat suitably detailed and specified corduroytactile flooring be provided as a hazard warningat the top and bottom of stairs.

It is critical to use recognised tactile floorpatterns in the appropriate location as incorrectuse will cause confusion and could be dangerous.


49

Services

● All services must be carefully located toavoid creating hazards or obstacles topeople moving through the facility.

● There should be no exposed angles.

● Carefully consider the effects ofbackground noise or magnetic fields fromservice equipment that may affect people’sability to communicate.

Electrical services

● In large sports facilities the main powersupply cable to the building may generate ahum in hearing aids, so must be routedaway from public and staff areas.

Heating

● Locate the pipework and emitter so thatthere is no risk of accidental burning.

● Avoid uncomfortable variations intemperature.

● Ensure all areas are well heated.

● Locate and detail windows and exit doors toavoid the creation of draughts and coldareas.

● Heating, ventilation and air-conditioningsystems must be quiet.

Lighting

Lighting must create a confusion-free environmentthat avoids excessive reflection, glare, deepshadows and wide variations in lighting levels.The lighting design should aim to achieve thisby controlling the location, quantity and qualityof both natural and artificial light.

● Careful lighting design can accentuatechanges in texture and colour and provideadditional information to visually impairedpeople.

● Changes in lighting levels must be gradualthroughout the facility.

● Do not locate reception desks in front oflarge areas of glazing where bright

sunshine could put a receptionist’s face inshadow and make lip-reading difficult.

● Daylight must be carefully controlled toreduce glare.

● Avoid shadows that could conceal potentialhazards. This can be achieved byincreasing the level of ambient lighting.

● Do not use spotlights in isolation.

● Downlighters should be carefully located sothat they do not create shadows acrosspeople’s faces making lip-reading difficult –at the reception desk for example.

● Staircases must be well illuminated –minimum 100 lux at tread level.

● Lighting should be bright and relativelyeven, giving good differentiation ofsurfaces and levels without glare.

● Indirect rather than direct lighting is themost comfortable form of lighting.

● Light sensors can be used to controllighting levels by the introduction orreduction of artificial light.

● Particular care must be taken with thedesign of lighting in areas with shinysurfaces.

● Glazing at the end of corridors should beavoided; side lighting is preferable.

● Fluorescent lights create a hum that can beheard in hearing aids. Minimise this bycareful placement of lights and by usinghigh frequency fittings.

● Ensure that non-disabled users do not usethe dedicated accessible car parking bays.

● Ensure that broken lamp bulbs are replacedas soon as possible.

● Ensure that flooring does not become wornor loose to form a trip hazard.

● When carrying out maintenance andredecoration ensure that existingaccessible provision is not compromised,for example by using an inappropriatefitting or an unsuitable colour scheme.

Well-managed buildings require a buildingmanagement /maintenance manual. All theabove issues should be addressed, withexplanations to emphasise the importance ofgood management in maintaining quality accessto the facility.

All staff should be trained in the specifics ofworking with disabled customers and the issuesinvolved in ensuring the delivery of goodcustomer service to people with disabilities.

Provide information in various formats so thatvisually impaired people can use it. This doesnot necessarily mean that such materialsshould be immediately to hand, but thatmechanisms are in place for providing differentformats and getting them to customers quickly.

It should be possible to provide information intape, Braille, large print or web-based formats.


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Sports facilities must be designed and managed tobe accessible to people with guide dogs

Management issues

The design measures included in this guidancewill help make facilities more accessible todisabled people and more user-friendly foreveryone – but only if they are managedefficiently and effectively.

Research has shown that the way a sportsfacility is managed has a significant impact onhow accessible it is to disabled people, and howlikely they are to return. For example, anaccessible toilet that is used as a store isuseless, as is the installation of an inductionloop at the reception desk if the staff have notbeen trained to use it. Similarly, that carefullydesigned lobby into the changing room will be rendered inaccessible by the carelesspositioning of a large litterbin.

● Pathways, ramps, steps, corridors, lobbiesmust not be obstructed by bicycles,discarded boxes, loose bricks, newdeliveries, and so on.

● All walking surfaces, particularly ramps andsteps, must be maintained to ensure slip-resistant surfaces.

● Ensure that doors are maintained to openand close with the minimum possible force.

● Ensure that slip-resistant floors are notmade dangerous by use of cleaning fluid orpolish.

● Signs and maps, both audible and visible,should be checked regularly to make sureroutes are clearly indicated, especiallyescape routes. The accidental removal orobliteration of one or two signs can creategreat confusion, as can the addition oftemporary signs by staff who have notconsidered the clarity of the whole route.

● Lifts and hoists must be checked andmaintained regularly, for example to ensurethat the lift stops exactly level at each floor.

● Induction loops and other electrical aidsshould be regularly checked – deteriorationand failure are not always obvious.


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The information should include:

● opening times/booking conditions

● travel details such as bus routes, trainstations and community transport. Notethat many disabled people rely on publictransport.

At large sites:

● Consider separating the tasks of answeringthe telephone and staffing the main receptionso that callers’ queries can be answered ina quiet environment at busy times.

● Adopt a strategy of directing textphonecalls to a central point where the mostfrequently asked questions, for exampleabout opening times, can be dealt with onbehalf of a number of different sites.

● Establish and maintain emergencyprocedures for people with variousdisabilities who are likely to use the facility.

Spectator/viewing provision

Wherever possible, people with a disability mustbe able to spectate like other members of thepublic. This provision includes access toexecutive boxes.

● At very large venues where crowd controland safety are factors, it is acceptable toprovide separately designated points ofaccess into spectator areas for people witha disability. These should provide a clearopening of 900mm.

● A minimum clear width of 650mm must beprovided between rows.

● Without blocking circulation routes,consider making space for guide dogs to sitnext to their owners.

● Provide at least six designated wheelchairspaces, or 1% of the spectator capacity,whichever is the greater.

● Wheelchair spaces must be distributedthroughout the seating area so that userscan sit next to seated companions.

● Wheelchair spaces must be located so thatusers do not feel cut off from the rest of thecrowd.

● Sight lines must enable the disabledspectator to have a clear view of the action –at least up to the edge of the area of play,and unobstructed by persons in front or bystructural features.

● The seating arrangements should ensurethat good sight lines are achieved even ifthe crowd stands up at moments ofexcitement.

● Wheelchair spaces must be a minimum 900x 1400mm.

● Barriers, balustrades, handrails andcolumns must not obstruct sight lines.

● Where spectator provision includes a publicaddress system, this must be supplementedwith an auditory loop or infrared systemand visual text display for people with ahearing impairment.

● Consider providing match commentaries toassist people with visual impairment. Thiscan be achieved by placing headphonesockets at specific locations or by using aninfrared communications system.


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Accessible showerseat and fittingsincorporatedinto shower area 1000mm min

1500 x 1500mm

Two drop-down rails afford ambulant disabled people and wheelchair usersadditional support and independence

Correctly sizedand designedlobby

300mm min

1000mm wide doorset

Figure 29 Group changing room incorporating showers

● A disabled person can often be self-conscious in a pool setting because theymay be without their aids, are physicallyexposed, and may require assistance toenter the pool.

● Disabled swimmers are often mostvulnerable when making their way to thepool or back to the changing room. Once inthe water they can be relatively safe.

● The pool environment can be visually andacoustically confusing if not properlycontrolled.

Changing areas

Changing provision is often inadequate andpoorly designed – particularly for disabled users.It is very important that all changing areas areof a good standard and provide a pleasantenvironment. The design will affect users’perception of the facility and, if done badly, canrestrict or stop people using part or all of thefacility. Modern pools have a mixture of single-and mixed-sex changing provision comprising:

● changing villages

● large, open-plan areas with benches

● enclosed rooms for families or small groupsof users.

All of these arrangements, with the addition ofsome unisex accessible changing provision, can

Swimming pools

Detailed guidance on the design of swimmingpools can be found in another title in this series.The guidance below aims to ensure that fullaccess is provided in all swimming pool facilities.

Swimming is an important activity for manydisabled people, at competition level or purelyfor recreation. Swimming provides independenceand freedom for the physically impaired personwho can move independently in water, outsidethe confines of a wheelchair and without awalking aid or prosthesis. Most of the guidancein the earlier sections of this document isapplicable to swimming pools. However, swimmingpools do pose particular problems for the designerand manager and these are often overlooked.

● All pools must be designed to allow fullintegration of disabled swimmers in allactivities. Management must also provideintegrated swimming sessions withadditional support, as well as ‘specialist’sessions for those who require specialisedhelp or prefer segregated activities.

● The route through a swimming poolcomplex should be the same for a swimmerwith a disability as for other swimmers.

● Bare feet on wet floor surfaces makemovement more difficult and moredangerous for the ambulant disabled person.


53

be designed and detailed to provide fully integratedand accessible changing for disabled swimmers.

To encourage maximum use of the facility,ensure that disabled users ’ needs areincorporated at the very early stages of design.

General considerations

● high quality, accessible showers and WCsin close proximity to the changing areas

● benches at least 450mm deep (500mmpreferred) from front to back

● mats to place over benches for people withsensitive skin and for those who aresusceptible to injury

● lockers within reach of children and disabledswimmers, that is 400–1300mm high

● at least four full-height lockers for storingcrutches, callipers, artificial limbs, and soon

● adequate space in all changingareas/rooms for wheelchair users andothers with restricted mobility to transfer toself-propelling skeleton waterproof chairs

● minimum of two self-propelling skeletonwaterproof chairs, not only for wheelchairusers but for some ambulant disabledpeople who lose mobility without their aids

● safe and secure storage for wheelchairs.

Changing villages

A properly designed changing village will meetthe requirements of many disabled swimmers.It will provide privacy and at the same timeallow users to be accompanied by a member of the opposite sex if required. Provide at least four large cubicles suitable for use bydisabled swimmers.

Open-plan changing

A number of large cubicles and/orchanging rooms are required to giveadditional privacy and accommodate thesupport rails that are required by somedisabled swimmers.

Changing rooms

These are often dedicated family or grouprooms. However, they can be used to great

advantage by the individual disabled swimmeror small disabled group that requires moreprivacy or space when changing.

Unisex changing provision

To allow helpers of the opposite sex to assistswimmers with disabilities all pools must haveat least one unisex, fully equipped accessiblechanging room. Fifty-metre pools should beprovided with at least two rooms. The changingarea should be self-contained and include:

● facilities for hanging clothes and towels andaccess to suitable lockers for clothesstorage

● hair and body drying facilities (considerwall-mounted dryers with flexible outlets)

● full-length mirror

● shelf for personal items

● shower

● WC

● appropriate support rails.

● emergency pull-cord with two red triangles

● visual and audible fire alarm.

Self-propelling waterproof 1 2 3 * *chairs (min)

Poolside hoist ● ● ❍(single position)

Poolside hoist ❍ ❍ ● ● ●(multiple position)

Portable steps ❍ ● ● ●

Minimum number of 4 4 8 * *full-height lockers

Changing mats ● ● ● * *Key: ● Recommended ❍ Desirable

* As main pool provision

20m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

25m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

50m

sw

imm

ing

po

ol

Lea

rner

po

ol

Div

ing

tan

k

Table 10 Pool equipment – requirements


54

ambulant disabled people and those with avisual impairment.

● Provide tactile information at critical pointson circulation routes.

Pool design

In the majority of modern pools water is at the same level as the pool surround. Thisarrangement makes getting in and out of thewater easier as less upper body effor t isrequired and fewer steps are needed betweenthe pool f loor and pool sur round. Thedisadvantage is that there is less clear definitionbetween the surround and the pool, thereforeclear demarcation of the pool edge is vital.

● Design and detailing of the pool edge mustwarn swimmers that they are approachingthe pool. This is achieved by using colourand tactile information.

● Minimum water depth to provide sufficientbuoyancy for adult disabled swimmers is1200mm. Anything less will lead to peoplescraping their limbs along the pool bottom.Additionally, shallow depths of water makeit difficult for people whose balance is poorto stand upright.

● Learner pools should, however, be accessibleto disabled children and other groups whomay prefer a shallower depth of water.

Movable floors

These can be particularly useful in learner poolsas they provide the deeper water necessary foradult swimmers with a lower limb disability.

Showers

● All showers must be fully accessible withsome semi-enclosed cubicles ofappropriate size for use by someone on ashower chair or transferring from awheelchair.

● Avoid excessive gradients, particularly inmore than one direction.

Within each shower area some showers mustbe fitted with:

● robust, proprietary drop-down seats thatare easy to operate, easily cleaned andmaintained, and fold away when not in use

● horizontal and vertical grabrails

● safe places for soap and shampoo

● thermostatic mixing valves with an anti-scald setting that are easy to manipulate bypeople with a weak grip

● separate levers on the controls fortemperature and volume adjustment

● control valve no higher than 1.3m abovefloor level

● slide bar with a flexible hose and anadjustable spray head.

In addition, a shower chair should be provided asit has some advantages over a permanent seat:

● equipped with sides, so giving extra support

● the user can vary the orientation.

There must be a clear space of at least 1.2m2

outside shower areas to allow a wheelchair to approach.

Route to the pool

This requires as much attention to detail as thechanging areas or the pool itself. En route to thepool disabled people are often in an unfamiliarenvironment without the benefit of normal aids.

● The route to the pool must not be confusingor lead directly through a shower area.

● It must be free of hazards, particularlystanding water and obstacles.

● Handrails should be provided between thechanging rooms and the poolside to assist


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Ramped entry

A fully integrated ramp and steps provides thebest access to the water. This arrangement canbe used and enjoyed by all swimmers, especiallyif it is incorporated into the pool design withimagination. However, a common misconceptionis that a shelving 'beach', often incorporated in leisure pools, is the best solution. Thisarrangement means that the swimmer has towade into the pool for a considerable distancewithout the support of the water. This means thatsome users will require assistance, although forothers a handrail will suffice.

● The Amateur Swimming Associationrecommends that the gradient of the rampbe no more than 1 in 15.

● Where a ramp or beach has beenincorporated into the pool design, 'safesteps' giving access to the full depth of thepool should also be considered.

Steps (fixed and portable)

As a minimum requirement, every pool must be provided with fixed or portable steps thatcomply with the following criteria. They must:

● be fitted with handrails that have good gripand contrast on both sides

● have handrails with an adequate extensionat the top and bottom of the steps

● have maximum risers of 140mm

● have minimum treads of 300mm

Pool surround benching

Benches against the wall on the pool perimeter –especially if they are heated – can be of greatbenefit to some disabled swimmers. Theyprovide a secure place to rest before entering orafter leaving the pool.

Access to the water

Whatever the type and scale of pool, there shouldbe a variety of means of access to the water toaccommodate all users. It is very important thatthe architect and the pool management teamgive careful consideration to this at an earlydesign stage. Various options are:

● pool access ladder

● ramped entry

● steps (fixed and portable)

● portable slide or chute

● hoist.

Pool access ladder

● The ladder must be recessed into the pooltank walls, with treads not less than 180mmdeep from front to back.

● Feet can easily slip down between thesteps and the wall so gaps between theback edge of the steps and the face of thepoolside must be minimal.

● The steps must be slip-resistant.

● There should be no sharp edges.

● The ladder must be fitted with continuoushandrails on both sides.

Ramped access can be integrated into the pool layout


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Hoists come in a variety of styles and thedesign and management implications should be considered at a very early stage in thedevelopment of the project. Hoists can be:

● permanently fixed to the floor in one place

● mounted in the floor in a socket(s) andremovable

● overhead electric

● overhead non-electric

● mobile.

Todmorden Sports Centre – permanent ‘easygoing’ access incorporated into the pool

● be fitted with a guardrail where they arerecessed into the pool tank

● be located at the shallow end (1.2m).

Lightweight portable step units are available forpools where a fixed flight cannot be incorporated.

● Ensure there is adequate storage provisionimmediately adjacent to the pool.

● The steps should be secured by housingsin the pool surround.

Portable slides and chutes

● These must be lightweight and easy tomove.

● Ensure there is adequate storage provisionimmediately adjacent to the pool.

Hoists

Mechanical assistance must be available tohelp disabled swimmers into the pool. Someswimmers prefer to be assisted into and out of the water by helpers rather than riskembarrassment by using a slow-moving aidsuch as a hoist. However, this would be aserious risk to any untrained helper and is not recommended.


57

● Wall surfaces should be free fromprojections and sharp corners and be non-abrasive, particularly where naked bodiesmay be present.

Thermal comfort

Some disabled people are particularly susceptibleto the cold in a pool environment because theymay have poor circulation and also because theprocess of drying and changing can take muchlonger than for non-disabled people. It istherefore important that particular attention isgiven to this aspect of the design.

● Avoid uncomfortable variations intemperature.

● Windows and doors should be detailed andlocated to avoid the creation of draughtsand cold areas.

● Ventilation supply grilles must not createdraughty conditions – even warm air canfeel cold to a wet body.

If increased water and air temperatures arerequired for specific sessions with disabledswimmers, this should be taken into account atan early stage in the design process as it willhave a significant effect on the design of thepool fabric and services.

After discussion with pool users and managementthe selected hoist should be fitted with a chairthat can be used as a wheelchair to avoid doublehandling at the poolside. Hoists are alsoavailable with additional fittings such as slingsand stretcher attachments and the need for theseshould be agreed with the pool management.

● Hoists must be available to provide accessinto the learner pool and the main pool atvarious depths and into the Jacuzzi orwhirlpool.

● Hoists must be stored safely andconveniently for use at any time.

Equipment and environment

Transport to the pool

● A minimum of two skeleton-type waterproofwheelchairs should be provided asstandard equipment. Storage space shouldbe safe, convenient and easy to access.

● The chairs must be suitable for pre- andpost-swim showering.

● Some chairs can be used as toilet chairs.

Mats

● Adequate storage must be provided formats and other minor aids to assistdisabled swimmers get changed or enterthe pool.

Other facilities

● If a sauna, whirlpool or Jacuzzi is includedin the pool complex it must be designed toaccommodate users with disabilities.

● The showers associated with these facilitiesmust be located close by.

Surfaces

● Floor finishes must be reliably slip-resistantwith a non-abrasive surface. Some disabledswimmers are particularly susceptible toskin damage, especially after being in thepool for a long time.

● The floor finish must be easy to clean inorder that slip-resistance can bemaintained.


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Fitness equipment rooms

Previously it was the exception rather than therule for equipment in fitness gyms to be usableby disabled people. In many cases equipmentwas located in a ‘special’ room away from themain fitness area and/or staff were notadequately trained to supervise use by disabledpeople. It is now accepted that all fitnessequipment rooms must be accessible toeveryone and that the equipment and its layoutmust reflect this inclusive approach.

A complete range of equipment must beavailable and accessible to people with a disabilityso that they can participate in an all-roundfitness programme. As a minimum requirement,fitness equipment rooms must offer the followingrange of accessible equipment:

● one upper body ergometer

● one treadmill

● one recumbent bike

● one upper body multi-station, accessible towheelchair users

● one leg-raise with cams

● one leg-curl with cams

Sport-specific requirements

Boccia

Boccia is played indoors by throwing, kicking or using an assisting device to propel leatherballs as close as possible to a small white ballthat serves as a jack. Players may competeindividually or as a team.

● A smooth, flat surface, such as a typicalsports hall floor is required to a size of12.5 x 6m.

● Good lighting is required.

● The space should not be located next to anoisy activity. Ideally a microphone shouldbe available for use by the tutor.

● The court markings are normally temporarytape markings. Ideally, in special schools,the court markings should be permanent toreduce the set up time.

● Men and women compete together in allevents.

Canoeing

This section should be read in conjunction withthe section on sailing where generic issues ofaccess to water sports facilities are covered.The specific requirements for canoeing are:

● Docking bays that give access from bothsides of the canoe. These can beincorporated into the design of the landingstage.

● Docking bays must incorporate hoists andframes to assist people to get in and out ofa canoe.

● The seat or sling used with the hoist shouldbe comfortable – often the canoeist willremain in it while canoeing. Considerproviding more than one sling or seat.

● The hoist must have enough reach toextend out over the craft from the landingstage.

● Transfer or sliding boards must be providedand adequate provision made for theirsecure and convenient storage.


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● two sets Velcro straps

● two sets adaptable handgrips

● one bag small equipment

● one set mobility aids.

Note: Consider providing upper tone andversatrainer machines. In larger fitness facilitiesconsider extending the range of equipment.

● Equipment must be easy to use. Whereverpracticable it must be accessible – withoutmajor adjustments – from a wheelchair, andable to be safely operated by people withvisual impairment and people with learningdisability.

● Equipment must only be obtained frommanufacturers who will provide theappropriate staff training for the inductionand supervision of disabled users.

● Suppliers accredited by the InclusiveFitness Initiative, which is run by theEnglish Federation of Disability Sport, canprovide the appropriate equipment andtraining; this may not be the case with non-accredited suppliers.

● The layout of the equipment must allowadequate space for the fitness activity andfor safe circulation between pieces ofequipment.

● Equipment plinths must not be used unlessproperly designed ramped access isprovided.

Goalball

Goalball is played by blind or visually impairedathletes. Each team has three players on thecourt at any one time and the object is to throwthe ball into the opponents’ goal. Bells insidethe ball help to orient the players and indicatethe direction of the oncoming ball. Therefore,while play is in progress the hall must becompletely silent to allow the players toconcentrate and react. All competitors wearmasks while they are on the playing court. Thisallows athletes with varying degrees of vision toparticipate together.

The court markings are normally of a temporarynature. For competitions all the court markingsmust be tactile but for less formal play only theorientation lines and the lines defining the teamareas need to be tactile. The other lines mustbe visibly marked.


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● The acoustic properties of the hall arecritical to play. The hall should have areverberation time not exceeding twoseconds at mid-frequency, and should bedesigned and specified to avoidunnecessary background noise, forexample from adjacent activities orequipment, or from nearby traffic.

● Tactile lines are formed by covering thebuilder’s line or cord with ‘Sportsline’ orsimilar high-quality tape.

● The goals are 9m wide x 1.3m high and areusually made of sectional steel.

● The minimum space is 21 x 30m with aclear height of 5m.

● The floor must have a smooth surface thatallows the body to slide easily withoutjarring.

● All wall surfaces must be flush.

Power-lifting

The only additional requirement is the provisionof additional space and/or convenient storagespace for the specialist power-lifting bench.

Sailing

People with a wide range of disabilities enjoysailing. The Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA)Sailability programme has promoted sailing asan ideal sport for people with disabilities. Thekey issues for sailing other than accommo-dation and management, which are common toall sports, are as follows:

Entrance gate

Sailing clubs often use security barriers orgates at the entrance to the facility. The designand management of the gate needs carefulconsideration so that it does not become abarrier to people who need to operate it. Thereis no easy solution but the problem can bereduced by thoughtful management and bycareful design including:

● providing clear signs and contact numbers

● ensuring that the gate swings easily

● positioning controls and locks in easilyaccessible positions.

Car parking

Land is at a premium at marinas, particularlyland close to the water. Wherever possible,however, dedicated accessible car parkingspaces must be provided close to the clubhouse


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and moorings. Only where this is not possible isa drop-off point an acceptable alternative. Abetter solution, and one that has been usedeffectively, is to use a golf buggy to conveydisabled people from the ‘remote’ car park tothe clubhouse and water. Additionally, thebuggies can be used to move the dinghiesaround – an example of improved access thatbrings added value.

Pontoons

● The main walkways must be at least 2mwide so that two wheelchairs can pass.

● Berthing pontoons must be rigid to avoidwhiplash and a minimum of 1m widebetween the cleats.

● At least one berthing pontoon, serving 5%of berths, must be fitted with a hoist andmultiple sockets to allow full use of thepontoon.

● Pontoons must be finished with a non-slipsurface.

● The junctions between sections of thepontoon must be flush.

● The edge of the pontoon must be in acontrasting colour and cleats, servicepoints, and so on must be maintainedwithin this margin.

Ramps

Except where linking to a pontoon the gradientof slopes should comply with the guidanceprovided earlier in this document. Pushingpeople up or down ramps that exceed themaximum gradient is not recommended, sosafe access to the pontoons will have to berestricted to times that suit the tide.

● All ramps must be fitted with a slip-resistantsurface. If slats are used across the rampthey must not be used for the whole width,as this will be a hazard for a wheelchairuser.

● All ramps must be fitted with handrails onboth sides.

● Where it is not possible to gain access tothe water using a suitable ramp, aproprietary lifting platform must beinstalled. Further details are available fromRYA Sailability. It is important that suchinstallations comply with all safetyregulations and are properly maintained.

Slipways

● All slipways must be fitted with a winchsystem for the launch and recovery ofboats.

● Slipways should not exceed a 1 in 15gradient.

Race hut

● The race hut must be accessible toeveryone.

Shooting

The only additional requirement is provision ofconvenient and secure storage for the shootingstands that are used as aids by some participants.


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Wheelchair sports

Wheelchair sports include athletics, badminton,basketball, bowls, fencing, rugby, table tennisand tennis. All the wheelchair spor ts aredeveloping very quickly and many of them arefast moving and have developed specialist‘sportschairs’. These sports share many commonfacility issues:

● Some athletes find sitting in a sportschairfor long periods uncomfortable and oftenonly use them during the actual sportingactivity. It is therefore necessary to makeprovision for the secure storage of chairswhile they are not in use.

● Without adequate storage sportschairs canbecome a hazard.

● To accommodate specialist sportschairs, alldoors and gates must have at least1100mm clear opening.

● Barriers, fencing and balustrades must bedesigned so that they do not obscure playfor spectators in wheelchairs.

The modern sportschair is purpose-built for theindividual and the sport. Sportschairs are as highlyengineered as other modern sports equipment

Typical length (L) Facility design width (W)

Approximate length Approximate width(L) (W)

Sportschairs generally 800 870

Tennis chairs 850 1000

Racing chairs 1800 750

Note: These are approximate

unoccupied sizes

Table 11 Typical dimensions for sportschairs (mm)


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● The facility should include designated areaswhere technicians, competitors andcoaches can repair and maintain sports-chairs, other mechanical sports aids,equipment, prostheses and so on.

● Racing chairs can be up to 2m long, soensure that there is adequate manoeuvringspace.

● Provide anchorage points in throwing areasto secure throwing frames. Ensure thatthere is convenient storage for throwingframes.

Badminton

Wheelchair badminton is played in accordancewith the rules of the parent game except for amodification to the overall playing area. This isbased around the standard badminton courtwith modifications to suit the particular disabilityof the people playing.

Basketball

Wheelchair basketball is one of the oldestwheelchair sports and, like its parent sport, isvery vigorous and fast moving. It is played on afull-size basketball court and it is essential thatthe minimum margins around the court aremaintained for the safety of the players and,where appropriate, spectators.

● Wall-mounted baskets should not be used.

● Mobile supports must have a cantileveredarm that maintains the overrun distance.

● In large venues designed for majorcompetitions provide four team-changingrooms, each with two fully equippedaccessible toilets. These venues must alsoprovide wider corridors to allow twowheelchairs to pass.

● Wooden floor surfaces give the fastestgame. Cushioned floors do not provide asuitable surface for wheelchair basketballas they significantly reduce the mobility ofthe sportschair.

● Floodlight meters/controls must be locatedwithin reach at an accessible height.

● There must be no hazardous projectionsinto the playing area.

Athletics (indoor and outdoor)

● All sports surfaces, including synthetic trackand field surfaces, must be designed andinstalled to meet the needs of disabledathletes, particularly those in wheelchairs.This includes warm-up and warm-downareas. The sports surfaces must be wellilluminated and have defined colours andtextures to aid athletes with visualimpairment.

● All athletics facilities, indoor and outdoor,should be fully accessible.

● Adequate, secure and convenient storagemust be provided for sportschairs andwheelchairs.

● Where necessary provide removablekerbing for the track to allow access forwheelchairs and equipment.

● Ensure that sufficient space for access isprovided around the track.


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Level threshold on to green allows access for everyone, especiallythose with a mobility or visual impairment

Hinged drop-down flap with chamfered edge

Flap locked in verticalposition to line through with bank side

Slip-resistant thresholdwith profiled edge

Plan

Bowls

Bowls can be played both indoors and outdoorswith all players on equal terms. The two keyissues are ensuring that access to the green isavailable for people in wheelchairs and ensuringthat the playing surface is not damaged.

Access to the green

Safe and convenient access to the green mustbe provided. This can be achieved in two ways:

● The green should incorporate an edgedetail that can be manually adjusted tobridge the ditch and provide a smoothtransition onto the green for a player in awheelchair or on crutches. This type ofarrangement must always be used forindoor facilities.

● Outdoors, where it may not be practicableto provide an appropriate edge detail, aproprietary lightweight set of movableramps must be provided to give directaccess to the green. Provision must bemade for the convenient and safe storageof these ramps when not in use.

Protecting the playing surface

To protect the playing surface special approvedwheelchairs or buggies with much wider wheelsthan the standard are used. Some players willhave their own buggy but many will not. Playerscan also purchase clip-on wheels for use withtheir personal wheelchair while on the green.

● Management should provide two sizes ofbuggy.

● Provision should be made for the secureand convenient storage of bowls buggiesand players’ wheelchairs. Note that thesebuggies require a clear width of 875mm,therefore door widths should beappropriately sized.

Figure 31 Typical sections through side or end ditch


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Cricket

Wheelchair cricket is played indoors andoutdoors. Teams of 6–11 players compete usingthe same rules as the parent sport. Indoors thegame is played in a sports hall or cricket school.The minimum space required is a netted area oftwo lanes, although a larger space is preferred.

● All indoor cricket schools must makeprovision for wheelchair cricket.

● Always ensure that the minimum circulationwidths are maintained. Particular careshould be taken to ensure that net supportsand fixings do not impinge on thecirculation areas.

● Always ensure that wheelchairs can gainaccess to the cricket net areas.

Fencing

There are no special requirements for wheelchairfencing apart from special frames that are usedto secure the chairs in the correct relationship.The building design should ensure that:

● there is adequate secure storage provisionimmediately adjacent

● appropriately placed power supply pointsare available (minimum four doublesockets).

Rugby

Wheelchair rugby – played in 20 countries – is ateam sport for tetraplegics and people with upperlimb impairment.

The spor t is played with a volleyball on astandard basketball court with goals and keyareas marked out at both ends. The object ofthe game is to score by carrying the ball overyour opponent’s line. Most chair-to-chair contactis allowed, but not body contact.

Table tennis

Table tennis is one of the sports that wheelchairplayers can play competitively against non-disabled opponents and many wheelchairplayers are members of table tennis clubs.

● Only tables that are free from obstructingcross-members must be used.

● Ensure that the proposed layout oftables/screens and netting does not hinderaccess between tables.

● To compensate for being seated whileplaying some wheelchair players use ahigher than normal chair.

Tennis

Wheelchair tennis is one of the fastest growingspor ts for disabled people. It provides theopportunity for disabled people to enjoy tennisboth recreationally and/or competitively againstnon-disabled and disabled people of all ages.It is played in over 70 countries throughout theworld and is expanding rapidly.


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As a minimum provision, a facility with morethan five courts must have at least two acrylic ormacadam courts. When setting out new courts,allow for the maximum run back recommendedby the Lawn Tennis Association. It is essentialthat adequate access be provided. This includes:

● providing access around the court tochange ends easily

● ensuring that the net posts are not tooclose together for sportschairs to pass

● ensuring that floodlighting columns do notrestrict the minimum width required.

Wheelchair tennis is played according to therules of the parent sport except that the ball isallowed to bounce twice. Facility requirements(indoor and outdoor):

● standard tennis court – most surfaces aresuitable

● tennis wheelchairs can require up to1100mm clear width along route ways.

The following are appropriate surfaces forwheelchair use:

● acrylic – considered to be the best surface

● macadam

● clay – not new courts

● carpet

● some artificial grass surfaces – but theseare generally unpopular with playersbecause they are considered to be ‘hardwork’.


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Access in the countryside

Projects aimed at making the countryside moreaccessible to disabled people must start withthe general principles already outlined. Thedesigner should try to make the facility asconvenient and safe as possible for all users.The key requirements are:

● firm, even walking surfaces that do notbecome soft or slippery when wet

● easy ramps and steps

● handrails and grabrails at hazardouslocations

● paths and gates that are wide enough forwheelchairs

● WCs within easy reach

● clear signposting

● tactile direction signs

● auditory aids (public address and inductionloops).

Close attention must be paid to:

● alighting from and parking a bus

● finding and using a WC

● finding and approaching the entrance

● buying a ticket

● passing through/around a turnstile

● getting to the destination.

The designer must consider how all of theseevents will impact on a disabled user, and thenmake the necessary adjustments.

Conclusion

As stated in the introduction, this guidance isnot about ‘special provision’ or what a disabledperson cannot do because of a medical condition.This document is written from the view that it isthe design or management of a facility thatcreates the barriers and limitations to use bydisabled people. Disabled people are entitled toequal opportunities to participate in sport, andto do so in high quality facilities that areattractive, well designed and properly managed.

By following the minimum requirements set outin this guidance note and the others in theseries, good access can be achieved that willbenefit everyone. As well as being equitable, itmakes financial sense to attract rather thandiscourage all potential customers, togetherwith their friends and families, to use sportsfacilities. Sports facilities should be available forthe use of everyone.

Contact addresses

All England Netball Association Netball House, 9 Paynes Park, Hitchin SG5 1EH

Tel: 01462 442344. Fax: 01462 442343.www.england-netball.co.uk

Amateur Rowing Association The Priory, 6 Lower Mall, London W6 9DJ

Tel: 020 8237 6700. Fax: 020 8237 6749.www.ara-rowing.org

Amateur Swimming Association,Harold Fern House, Derby Square,Loughborough LE11 5AL

Tel: 01509 618700. Fax: 01509 618701.www.britishswimming.org

Badminton Association of England,National Badminton Centre, Bradwell Road,Loughton Lodge, Milton Keynes MK8 9LA

Tel: 01908 268400. Fax: 01908 268412.www.baofe.co.uk


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British Disabled Water Ski AssociationThe Tony Edge National Centre, Heron Lake,Wraysbury, Nr Staines TW19 6HW

Tel: 01784 483664. Fax: 01784 482747.www.bdsa.org.uk

British GymnasticsFord Hall, Lilleshall National Sports Centre,Nr Newport TF10 9NB

Tel: 01952 820330. Fax:01952 820326.www.baga.co.uk

British Judo Association7a Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RB

Tel: 0116 255 9662. Fax: 0116 255 9660.www.britishjudo.org.uk

British Orienteering FederationRiversdale, Dale Road North, Darley Dale,Matlock DE4 2HX

Tel: 01629 734042. Fax: 01629 733769.www.britishorienteering.org.uk

British Paralympic AssociationNorwich Union Building, 9th Floor, 69 ParkLane, Croydon CR9 1BG

Tel: 020 7662 8882. Fax: 020 7662 8310.www.paralympics.org.uk

British Sub-Aqua ClubTelford’s Quay, South Pier Road,Ellesmere Port CH65 4FL

Tel: 0151 350 6200. Fax: 0151 350 6215.www.bsac.com

British Triathlon AssociationPO Box 25, Loughborough LE11 3WX

Tel: 01509 228321. Fax: 01509 223931.www.britishtraithlon.org

British Wheelchair Sports FoundationGuttmann Road, Stoke Mandeville HP21 9PP

Tel: 01296 395995. Fax: 01296 424171.

British Blind Sport 4–6 Victoria Terrace, Leamington Spa CV31 3AB

Tel: 01926 424247. Fax: 01926 427775.

British Canoe UnionJohn Dudderidge House, Adbolton Lane, WestBridgford, Nottingham NG2 5AS

Tel: 0115 982 1100. Fax: 0115 982 1797www.bcu.org.uk

British Cycling FederationNational Cycling Centre, Stuart Street,Manchester M11 4DQ

Tel: 0161 230 2301. Fax: 0161 231 0591www.bcf.uk.com

British Disabled Fencing Association24 Orchard Avenue, New Malden, Surrey KT3 4JT

www.britishfencing.com


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Centre for Accessible EnvironmentsNutmeg House, 60 Gainsford Street, LondonSE1 2NY

Tel/Minicom: 020 7357 8182.Fax: 020 7357 8183. www.cae.org.uk

Disability Rights CommissionFreepost MID 02164, Stratford-upon-AvonCV37 9BR

Tel: 08457 622 633. Textphone: 08457 622 644.Fax: 08457 778 878. www.drc-gb.org

England and Wales Cricket BoardLord’s Cricket Ground, London NW8 8QZ

Tel: 020 7432 1200. Fax: 020 7286 5583.www.ecb.co.uk

English Basketball Association48 Bradford Road, Leeds LS28 6DF

Tel: 0113 236 1166. Fax: 0113 236 1022.www.basketballengland.org.uk

English Boccia Federation11 Churchill Park, Colwick, Nottingham NG4 2HF

Tel: 0115 940 2002. Fax: 0115 940 2084

English Federation of Disability SportManchester University, Alsager Campus,Hassall Road, Alsager, Stoke-on-Trent ST7 2HL

Tel: 0161 247 5294. Minicom: 0161 247 5644.Fax: 0161 247 6895. www.efds.co.uk

English Hockey AssociationThe Stadium, Silbury Boulevard, Milton KeynesMK9 1HA

Tel: 01908 544644. Fax: 01908 241106.www.hockeyonline.co.uk

English Table Tennis AssociationQueensbury House, Havelock Road,Hastings TN34 1HF

Tel: 01424 722525. Fax: 01424 422103.www.etta.co.uk

English Volleyball Association,27 South Road, West Bridgford,Nottingham NG2 7AG

Tel: 0115 981 6324. Fax: 0115 945 5429.www.volleyballengland.org

Football Association25 Soho Square, London W1D 4FA

Tel: 020 7402 7151. Fax: 020 7402 0486.www.the-fa.org

Grand National Archery SocietyLilleshall National Sports Centre, NewportTF10 9AT

Tel: 01952 677888. Fax: 01952 606019.www.gnas.org.uk

Inclusive Fitness InitiativeThe Estate Office, Thorncliffe Park Estate,Chapeltown, Sheffield S35 2PH

JMU Access PartnershipJoint Mobility Unit, 105 Judd Street,London WC1H 9NE

Tel: 020 7391 2002. Fax: 020 7837 7109.www.jmuaccess.org.uk

Lawn Tennis AssociationThe Queen’s Club, Barons Court,London W14 9EG

Tel: 020 7381 7000. Fax: 020 7381 5965.www.lta.org.uk

National Federation of AnglersHalliday House, Egginton Junction, DerbyDE65 6GU

Tel: 01283 734735. Fax 01283 734799.www.the-nfa.org.uk

National Ice Skating Association of UKNational Ice Centre, Lower Parliament Street,Nottingham NG1 1LA

Tel: 0115 853 3100. Fax: 0115 853 3101.www.iceskating.org.uk


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National Register of Access ConsultantsNutmeg House, 60 Gainsford Street,London SE1 2NY

Tel: 020 7234 0434. Fax: 020 7357 8188.

National Small-Bore Rifle AssociationLord Robert’s Centre, Bisley Camp,Brookwood, Woking, GU24 0NP

Tel: 0845 130 6772. Fax: 01483 476392.www.nsra.co.uk

RADAR – the Disability Network12 City Forum, 250 City Road,London EC1V 8AF

Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119.Fax: 020 7250 0212.

Riding for the Disabled AssociationLavinia Norfolk House, Avenue R, NationalAgricultural Centre, Stoneleigh Park CV8 2LY

Tel: 02476 696510. Fax: 02476 696532.www.riding-for-disabled.org.uk

Royal National Institute for the Blind224 Great Portland Street, London W1N 6AA

Tel: 020 7388 1266. Fax: 020 7388 2034.www.rnib.org.uk

Royal National Institute for Deaf People19–23 Featherstone Street, London EC1Y 8SL

Tel: 020 7296 8000. Textphone: 020 7296 8001.Fax: 020 7296 8199. www.rnid.org.uk

Royal Yachting AssociationRYA House, Romsey Road, Eastleigh SO50 9YA

Tel: 023 8062 7400. Fax: 023 8062 9924.www.rya.org.uk

Rugby Football LeagueRed Hall, Red Hall Lane, Leeds LS17 8NB

Tel: 0113 232 9111. Fax: 0113 232 3666.www.rfl.uk.com

Rugby Football UnionRugby House, Rugby Road,Twickenham TW1 1DS

Tel: 020 8892 2000. Fax: 020 8892 4446.www.rfu.com

Sign Design Society66 Derwent Road, Kinsbourne Green,Harpenden AL5 3NX

Tel/fax: 01582 713556.www.signdesignsociety.co.uk

Squash Rackets AssociationPO Box 52, Manchester M12 5FF

Tel: 0161 231 4499. Fax: 0161 231 4231.www.squash.co.uk

UK Athletics10 Harborne Road, Edgbaston,Birmingham B15 3AA

Tel: 0121 456 5098. Fax: 0121 456 8752.www.ukathletics.org

United Kingdom Sports Association forPeople with Learning DisabilityGround Floor, Leroy House, 436 Essex Road,London N1 3QP

Tel: 020 7354 1030. Fax: 020 7354 2593.


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Sport England Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. Sport England, its servantsor agents shall not at any time, in any circumstances, be held responsible or liable to any party in respect of any loss, damage orcosts of any nature arising directly or indirectly from reliance placed on the material in this publication, or any other guidelines or

policies issued by Sport England. This information has been prepared as a basic guide only and should not be viewed as asubstitute for obtaining comprehensive expert or professional advice.

This guidance and Sport England policies on Lottery funding applications are subject to change from time to time, including variationsrequired to comply with governmental directions on the application of Lottery funds. Sport England reserves the right to amend,

supplement and/or discontinue, at its absolute discretion for whatever reason, any or all of the guidelines set out in this publication.

Some of our publications may be available in alternative formats orlanguages. Please contact Information Services for assistance:

Tel: 020 7273 1700 Fax: 020 7273 1868 Email: [email protected]

There are a number of Guidance Notes on related

matters. A current list is available from:

Sport England Publications

PO Box 255, Wetherby LS23 7LZ

Tel: 0870 5210255. Fax: 0870 5210266

Minicom: 0870 1207405

E-mail (order enquiries only):

[email protected]

Online ordering: www.sportengland.org

Some publications can be downloaded from the

website.

© Sport England, November 2002

SE/2042/5M/11/02

16 Upper Woburn Place,

London WC1H 0QP

Tel: 0113 205 3317

www.sportengland.org

Design concept by GDA Creative Solutions

Produced by NBA Tectonics

Photography by Alan Edwards, Charlie Fawell, David Slater,

Della Batchelor, Eileen Langsley, Richard Sowersby, RGK

Wheelchairs, Robynne Limoges and Sheffield Tigers RUFC

Printed in England by Belmont Press


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