MS 1184 : 2002

CODE OF PRACTICE ON ACCESS FORDISABLED PERSONS TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS(FIRST REVISION)

ICS: 11.180

Descriptors: disabled persons, ambulant disabled, access, landscape, signs and symbols, facilities fordisabled persons

© Copyright

DEPARTMENT OF STANDARDS MALAYSIA

MALAYSIANSTANDARD

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DEVELOPMENT OF MALAYSIAN STANDARDS

The Department of Standards Malaysia (DSM) is the national standardisation

and accreditation body.

The main function of the Department is to foster and promote standards,

standardisation and accreditation as a means of advancing the national

economy, promoting industrial efficiency and development, benefiting the health

and safety of the public, protecting the consumers, facilitating domestic and

international trade and furthering international cooperation in relation to standards

and standardisation.

Malaysian Standards are developed through consensus by committees which

comprise of balanced representation of producers, users, consumers and others

with relevant interests, as may be appropriate to the subject in hand. To the

greatest extent possible, Malaysian Standards are aligned to or are adoption of

international standards. Approval of a standard as a Malaysian Standard is

governed by the Standards of Malaysia Act 1996 (Act 549). Malaysian Standards

are reviewed periodically. The use of Malaysian Standards is voluntary except in

so far as they are made mandatory by regulatory authorities by means of

regulations, local by-laws or any other similar ways.

The Department of Standards appoints SIRIM Berhad as the agent to develop

Malaysian Standards. The Department also appoints SIRIM Berhad as the agent

for distribution and sale of Malaysian Standards.

For further information on Malaysian Standards, please contact:

Department of Standards Malaysia OR SIRIM BerhadLevel 1 & 2, Block C4, Parcel C (Company No. 367474 - V)Federal Government Administrative Centre 1, Persiaran Dato’ Menteri62502 Putrajaya P.O. Box 7035, Section 2MALAYSIA 40911 Shah Alam

Selangor D.E.Tel: 60 3 88858000 Tel: 60 3 5544 6000Fax: 60 3 88885060 Fax: 60 3 4410 8095

http://www.dsm.gov.my http://www.sirim.my

E-mail: central@dsm.gov.my

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MS 1184 : 2002

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CONTENTS

Page

Committee representation …….…………………………………………………….. iv

Foreword …….……………………………………………………………………….. vi

0 Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………. 11 Scope …………………………………………………………………………………. 12 Interpretation…..……………………………………………………………………… 23 General……….………………………………………………………………………… 34 Vehicle parking and access……..…………………………………………………… 45 Pathways and ramps………………………………………………………………….. 56 Main entrances………………………………………………………………………… 67 Step ramps…….………………………………………………………………………. 68 Door and doorways …………………………………………………………………… 79 Stairs……………………………………………………………………………………. 1010 Lifts…..…………………………………………………………………………………. 1211 Escalators…….……………………………………………………………………….. 1412 Handrails……..………………………………………………………………………… 1413 Grab rails……..……………………………………………………………………….. 1614 Circulation spaces…….………………………………………………………………. 1715 Guiding blocks………….……………………………………………………………… 1816 Summary of toilet requirements..…………………………………………………… 2117 Water closets………………………………………………………………………… 2218 Urinals………….……………………………………………………………………… 2619 Shower facilities………..…………………………………………………………….. 2620 Washbasins and other facilities…………………………………………………….. 2821 Bath…..………………………………………………………………………………… 2922 Combined water closet and shower recess……..………………………………… 3123 Shelving and wall units….…………………………………………………………… 3224 Work surfaces……………………………….………………………………………… 3425 Projections, guard rails, openings and drops……………………………………… 3526 Finishes………………………………………………………………………………… 3527 Controls for use by disabled persons …………………………………………….. 3628 Signs and symbols……..……………………………………………………………. 3829 Announcements, signals and warnings for people with detective

sight or hearing impaired…..……………………………………………………….. 4130 Landscape……...…………………………………………………………………… 4131 Hotel bedrooms……………………………………………………………………… 42

Tables

1 Water closets for wheelchair users………………………………………………… 212 Points for dispenser…….…………………………………………………………… 293 Size of symbol for access for varying viewing distance…….…………………… 394 Height of letters for varying viewing distances…….……………………………… 405 Levels of illumination………………………………………………………………… 416 Requirements for hotel bedroom……………………………………………………. 42

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MS 1184 : 2002

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CONTENTS (continued)

Page

Figures

1 Maximum allowable camber for pathways and ramps…………………………… 52 Profile of ramp………………………………………………………………………… 63 Step ramp ….…………………………………………………………………………. 74 Door openings towards access for wheelchair users …….……………………… 85 Door opening other than towards access for wheelchair users …..…………….. 96 Door glazing limitation ….……………………………………………………………. 107a) Stair for ambulant disabled …………………………………………………………… 117b) Configuration of steps …..…………………………………………………………….. 128 Lift car requirement …….……………………………………………………………… 139 Handrails ……….………………………………………………………………………. 1510 Coordinating dimensions for handrail grip ………………………………………….. 1611 Areas off circulation space …….……………………………………………………… 1712 Examples of guiding blocks …………………………………………………………… 1913 Examples of guiding blocks layouts ……..…………………………………………… 2114 General requirement for water closet ….…………………………………………… 2215i) Combined water closet and washroom…………………………………………… 2315ii) Separate water closets for wheelchair user …….…………………………………. 2315iii) Separate water closets for wheelchair user …….…………………………………. 2415iv) Water closet for ambulant disabled …….…………………………………………… 2516 Urinals and grab rails …………………………………………………………………. 2617 Shower facilities ………………………………………………………………………. 2718 Location of washbasin and other facilities …………………………………………. 2819 Bath requirement ……………………………………………………………………… 3020 Combined water closet and shower recess ……..…………………………………. 3121a) Configuration of unobstructed shelving and wall units for wheelchair users …… 3221b) Configuration of shelving and wall units adjacent to work surfaces

wheelchair users …….……………………………………………………………….. 3322a) Configuration of unobstructed shelving and wall units for ambulant

disabled persons ……..……………………………………………………………….. 3322b) Configuration of shelving and wall units adjacent to work surfaces for

ambulant disabled person ….……………………………………………………. 3423 Fixed work surface for disabled………..…………………………………………….. 3424 Heights of switches, general power, outlets and door handle …………………… 3725 Door handle and auxiliary rails locations …………………………………………… 3826a) International symbol of access for disabled persons …….………………………. 3926b) Example of sign and symbol indicating facilities and its direction………………. 3927 Example of sign and symbols with tactile additions for the blind …..………….…. 40

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MS 1184 : 2002

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Committee representation

The Building and Civil Engineering Industry Standards Committee (ISC D) under whose supervision this MalaysianStandard was developed, comprises representatives from the following organisations:

Association of Consulting Engineers MalaysiaChartered Institute of Building MalaysiaConstruction Industry Development Board MalaysiaDepartment of Standards MalaysiaJabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat MalaysiaMalaysian Timber Industry BoardMaster Builders Association MalaysiaNational Housing DepartmentPertubuhan Akitek MalaysiaPublic Work DepartmentSuruhanjaya TenagaThe Institution of Engineers, MalaysiaUniversiti Teknologi Malaysia

The Technical Committee on Accessibility For Disabled Persons which developed this standard was managed by theConstruction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) in its capacity as an authorised Standards-WritingOrganisation and comprise of the following organisations:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asiah bt. Abdul Rahim (Chairperson) Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia

Encik Ismail bin Shariff/ Construction Industry Development Board MalaysiaEncik Lokman bin Darus (Secretary)

Dato’ Sayed A. Rahman bin Sayed Mohd/ Social Welfare Department, Ministry of National UnityPuan Zainon bt. Johari and Social Development, Malaysia

Encik Fong Tian Yong/ Local Government Department, Ministry of Housing andPuan Mahani bt. Ahmad Aziz Local Government

Puan Hajjah Norasiah bt. Yahya/ Town & Country Planning Department, Ministry ofPuan Kalsom Yop bt. Mohd Kasim Housing and Local Government

Prof. Madya Norwina bt. Mohd Nawawi Planning & Development Division,Ministry of Health Malaysia

Dr. S. Balasegaran Department of Rehabilitation Medicine,Kuala Lumpur Hospital

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zaliha bt. Omar Medical Rehabilitation Unit, University Hospital,Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya

Puan Ch’ng Gaik Bee Kuala Lumpur City Hall, Architects &Special Project Department

Ir. Nah Teik Ong Kuala Lumpur City Hall, UrbanTransportation Department

Encik Wan Mohd Nor bin Wan Yaacob Kuala Lumpur City Hall, Civil Works Department

Ir. Wong Loo Min The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia

Encik H.R.M Storey Society of the Orthopaedically Handicapped, Malaysia

Encik Godfrey Ooi/Dr. Zakaria bin Osman Malaysian Association for The Blind

Encik Mah Hassan bin Hj. Omar Society of The Blind in Malaysia

Encik Mohamad Sazali bin Shaari Malaysian Federation of The Deaf

Encik M. Shamugam Society for The Deaf in Selangor & Federal Territory

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MS 1184 : 2002

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FOREWORD

This Malaysian Standard was developed by the Technical Committee on the Accessibility ForDisabled Persons under the authority of the Building and Civil Engineering Industry StandardsCommittee Development of the Standard was carried out by the Construction IndustryDevelopment Board Malaysia (CIDB) which is the Standards Writing Organisations (SWO)appointed by SIRIM Berhad to develop standards for construction industry.

During the development of this standard reference was made to :

i) AS 1428.1:1988 - Australian Standard Design for Access and Mobility. Part 1:General Requirements for Access-Buildings.

ii) BS 5810: 1979 - British Standard Code of Practice for Access for the disabled tobuildings.

This revised standard supersedes MS 1184 : 1991 “Code of Practice for the Accessibility forDisabled Persons in Public Buildings”.

The main changes featured in this standard include :

i) improvement of some figures and tables with some dimensioning changes; and

ii) additional topics i.e. guiding blocks, landscape and hotel bedrooms.

Compliance with a Malaysian Standard does not of itself confer immunity from legalobligations.

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MS 1184 : 2002

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CODE OF PRACTICE ON ACCESS FOR DISABLEDPERSONS TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS

(FIRST REVISION)

0. Introduction

Malaysia’s commitment to quality living among people with disabilities is extensivelyaddressed in this revised code, which accordingly improves the provisions of the MS 1184:1991 Code of Practice for Access for Disabled People to Public Buildings, and is now calledCode of Practice on Access for Disabled Persons to Public Buildings.

Pursuant to the spirit of the Proclamation on the Full Participation and Equality of People withDisabilities in the Asia And Pacific Region to which Malaysia became a signatory on 16th May1994, the review of the current Code of Practice is relevant. The standard has immenselycontributed to the fulfilment of the goals set in the Asian and Pacific Decade of DisabledPersons 1993-2002 which aimed at systematically improving the living conditions of disabledpersons and helping them to achieve their full development potential.

This revised standard covers the provisions that need to be incorporated in public buildings toensure that they are accessible by disabled persons, thereby enhancing the integrativepotential of disabled persons into the mainstream activities of society.

This standard concentrates on the essential provisions that need to be incorporated inbuildings to ensure that they are conveniently usable by disabled persons. It does not pretendto be comprehensive.

1. Scope

This Malaysian Standard specifies the basic requirements for elements of buildings andrelated facilities so as to permit access by people with disabilities.

These requirements are applicable to all buildings that disabled persons may use asmembers of the general public, as visitors or for purposes of employment. Residentialbuildings will be covered in another standard.

Building types to which the recommendations of the code may be applied include:

a) offices, banks, post offices, shops, department stores, supermarkets, hotels and otheradministrative and commercial buildings;

b) rail, road, sea and air travel buildings and associated concourses, car-parkingbuilding and factories;

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MS 1184 : 2002

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c) hospitals, medical centres, clinics and other health and welfare buildings;

d) restaurants, concert halls, theatres, cinemas, conference buildings, communitybuildings, swimming pools, sports buildings and other refreshment, entertainment andrecreation buildings;

e) religious buildings; and

f) schools, hostels, colleges, universities, zoos, museums, art galleries, libraries,exhibition buildings and, other educational, cultural and scientific buildings; and anyother buildings or any part thereof to which members of the general public hasaccess, as visitors /occupants or for the purposes of the employment.

Buildings having less than 280 m² of floor area per level need not be required to providevertical access for the disabled persons provided the ground floor is made accessible.

2. Interpretation

In this standard, unless the context otherwise requires:

2.1 Access for disabled persons means a continuous unobstructed path of travel to orwithin a building capable of being negotiated by a person using a wheelchair or otherwise withlimited mobility.

2.2 Ambulant disabled persons are persons who are able to walk but who may dependon prostheses (artificial limbs), orthoses (calipers), sticks, crutches or other mobility aids, andothers who can walk but have sensory impairment such as the blind and the deaf.

2.3 Circulation space means a passageway, corridor, lobby, hallway or ramp affordingaccess between parts of a building.

2.4 Disabled persons refer to people with a physical, hearing or sight impairment or anycombination thereof, which affects their mobility or their use of buildings and relatedamenities.

2.5 Entrance floor means the floor at which the persons using the building normally gainentrance thereto but does not include any basement or utility area.

2.6 Guiding blocks are special tiles incorporated into the walking surface, and arrangedin layouts for the guidance of the blind; they have raised markings on them which the blindcan feel through their feet.

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2.7 Landscape

Landscape can be divided into:

a) Soft landscape such as plants, shrubs and trees.

b) Hard landscape such as furniture, lighting, dustbin or part of it any features fordecoration, etc.

2.8 Signs and Symbols

a) Signs - refer to designs that help to indicate location or direction of places which havefacilities for disabled persons. A sign has to be appropriately sized, effectivelydesigned and located for the benefit of disabled persons, in the form of audio andvisual presentation.

b) Symbols - are graphical representation of the concept, and form part of the signs.

2.9 Vertical access shall include:

a) an internal ramp complying with Clause 5;

b) a step ramp complying with Clause 7;

c) a lift designed for carrying transport of persons complying with Clause 10;

d) any combination of a), b) and c); and

e) in the case of providing access for ambulant disabled, stairs complying with Clause 9 andescalators complying with Clause 11.

2.10 Wheelchair users are persons who depend on a wheelchair for mobility. Theseinclude attendant propelled wheelchairs, powered wheelchairs and self-propelledwheelchairs.

3. General

3.1 Access for disabled persons to and within every public building approved by therelevant authorities pursuant to Uniform Building By-Laws or any act or regulations should beprovided in accordance with this Malaysian Standard.

3.2 Access for disabled persons should be means of a pathway and ramp complying withClause 5 or a step ramp complying with Clause 7 or a lift for the transport of personscomplying with Clause 10 or any combination thereof, and should commence at:

a) the street alignment in respect of the site on which the building is located; and

b) any car parking area on the same site (whether within or outside the building); or

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c) another building to which wheelchair access is provided in accordance with thissection.

3.3 Access for disabled persons should extend:

a) from the main entrance referred to in Clause 6 to any vertical access within the building;

b) from the main entrance referred to in Clause 6 and from the vertical access to every floorlevel; and

c) at every floor level, to all rooms and others places to which members of the general publichave access, as defined in 2.1.

3.4 In public viewing area, in theatres, cinemas and grandstand and other similar spaces forwheelchair users should be provided in the proportion of 1 space to every 200 seats, or partthereof available to the public, with a minimum of 2 spaces for wheelchair users.

3.5 In concert, conference and lecture halls, theatres, cinemas, religious buildings, aninduction loop shall be installed which can be connected with the sound system for the benefitof people with impaired hearing using certain types of hearing aid.

3.6 Except where otherwise provided, the dimensions prescribed in this Malaysian Standardincluding those in figures or tables should not be reduced by any stairways, doors stop,architrave’s, skirting, kerbs, handrails or other fixtures.

4. Vehicle parking and access

4.1 Vehicle spaces for disabled persons should be provided in the proportion of 1 spaceto every 100 vehicles, or part thereof available to the public.

4.2 Parking spaces should be on the flat surface and not less than 3 600 mm wide. Alltypes of vehicle driven by disabled persons may be parked in them.

4.3 Flat access should be provided between each parking space and the adjoiningwalkway. If there is a change in level from the parking space to the walkway, a step rampcomplying with Clause 7 should be provided.

4.4 Spaces for parking the vehicles of disabled persons should be adjacent to at leastone entrance to the building that is visible and usable by them.

4.5 Parking spaces should be identified by a sign incorporating the symbol for access bydisabled persons, in accordance with Clause 28. The sign should be readily visible from avehicle at the entrance to the car park. Adequate guide signs should be provided to direct thedisabled persons to the location of the space.

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4.6 Disembarkation space near the main entrance to a building or complex is essentialfor disabled passengers. Guiding blocks leading to the main entrance should be provided.

5. Pathways and ramps

1:40 max. 1:40 max. a) Crowned walkway or ramp b) Banked walkway, or ramp

Figure 1. Maximum allowable camber for pathways and ramps

5.1 Every pathway and ramp forming part of access for the disabled persons should:

a) have a clear width at every part of not less than 1200 mm;

b) in no part have a gradient steeper than 1:12;

c) the surface of the adjacent grounds to the pathways and internal ramps should be at thesame level ± 10 mm;

d) the camber of crowned or banked pathways and ramps should not be more than 1:40 incross section as shown in Figure 1;

e) wherever pathways or ramps join other walkways, ramps, driveways or parking areas, thetransition should be effected without abrupt change of camber; and

f) pathways and ramps should have a non-slip finish in accordance with Clause 26.

5.2 All ramps should :

a) be provided with landing rest areas not less than 1200 mm in length at intervals of notmore than 6000 mm, measured clear as shown in Figure 2;

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Figure 2. Profile of ramp

b) be provided on each side thereof with a handrail, which should be attached to an adjacentwall or a balustrade in accordance with Clause 12; and

c) be provided on the open side with a kerb not less than 100 mm high.

6. Main entrances

6.1 Every public building should have a doorway at the entrance floor providing accessfor wheelchair users into the building.

6.2 At least one entrance usable by wheelchair users should be on a similar level to liftswhere these are provided.

6.3 When the main entrance of the building is not usable by the wheelchair users then asign complying with Clause 28 directing to an alternative accessible entrance should beinstalled at the same entrance.

6.4 Entrances and exits used by the sight impaired should be identified for them by guidingblocks.

6.5 Door fitted with intercom, the height of the microphone should be between 1100 mmto 1300 mm and a special button for the hearing impaired should be provided.

6.6 Disembarkation space for disabled persons should be provided as in 4.6.

7. Step ramps

7.1 Where:

a) the entrance floor or any other floor is not more than 215 mm above or below theadjacent street or finished ground level; or

b) there is a change of level of not more than 215 mm within a building a step ramp,constructed in accordance with Figure 3, may be provided in place of a pathway or aninternal ramp.

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Figure 3. Step ramp

7.2 Step ramps should begin at a level not more than 15 mm above the adjacent street orfinished ground or floor level (as the case requires).

7.3 Step ramps should be located so that disabled persons have an unobstructed view oftraffic approaching from any direction.

7.4 Step ramps should have a non-slip finish in accordance with Clause 26.

8. Doors and doorways

Doors and doorways (forming part of access for wheelchair users) should comply with thefollowing:

8.1 Every doorway except those to toilet facilities should have an opening of not less than900 mm clear. In case of double leaf door, at least one leaf should have the minimum openingof not less than 900 mm clear. Building such as hospital and sport complexes should have theminimum of opening of not less than 1000 mm clear.

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8.2 Every doorway to toilet facilities should have an opening of not less than 900 mmclear.

8.3 Where a door opens towards access for wheelchair users, the circulation spaceshould not be less than those as shown in Figure 4 including the notes thereto.

a) Direct access for wheelchair users

b) Side access for wheelchair users

Figure 4. Door openings towards access for wheelchair users

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8.4 Where door opens other than towards access for wheelchair users, the circulationspace should have dimensions not less than those shown in Figure 5 including the notesthereto.

a) Direct exit or access for wheelchair users.

b) Side exit or access for wheelchair users

Figure 5. Door opening other than towards access for wheelchair users.

8.5 Doors should open in the exit direction or be double swing in vestibules, air locks etc.

8.6 Sliding doors should be installed in place where a hinged door would hindercirculation or mobility.

8.7 Where revolving access or turnstiles are installed, it may be necessary to provide analternative access for disabled persons.

8.8 If door glazing is required, the location of door glazing should be provided within thelimitation in accordance with Figure 6.

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Figure 6. Door glazing limitation

8.9 Glass doors or walls, and the like should be clearly marked at levels between 800mm and 1500 mm above the plane of finished floor to avoid danger to people with defectivevision.

8.10 Threshold to entrance doors should not be more than 10 mm and should be avoidedin all internal doors.

8.11 For doors fitted with intercom device, refer to 6.5 (main entrances).

9. Stairs

9.1 Stairs only provide independent access for some ambulant disabled. In addition tostairs, accessible ramps or lifts or both should be provided to give vertical access for alldisabled persons in accordance with Clauses 5 and 10.

9.2 The total rise in height of any flight of stairs should not exceed 2000 mm.

9.3 Changes in level more than 180 mm and single steps should be avoided.

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9.4 Treads and risers should comply with the following:

a) the dimensions of treads and risers should be uniform for all steps in any one flight;

b) the line of nosing of the top step of a flight of stairs should not be closer than 300 mm tothe point where an adjacent wall returns as shown in Figure 7a);

Figure 7a). Stairs for ambulant disabled

c) treads should have a non-slip surface in accordance with Clause 26;

d) the nosing should have a radius of 10 mm to 15 mm and should be flush with the riserand should not be lapped more than 25 mm as shown in Figure 7 b); and

e) projecting nosing and open stairs should not be used.

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Figure 7b). Configuration of steps

9.5 Illumination levels for stairs and landings refer to 29.4.

9.6 The top and bottom steps of any flight of stairs should not encroach on circulationspace.

9.7 Landing and floor levels should be distinguished from stairs either by contrastingcolours, brightness or textures.

9.8 No door should open directly across the top of the flight of stairs or swing so that itobstructs the top and bottom steps.

9.9 Stairs should have handrails on both sides in accordance with Clause 12.

9.10 The width between handrails on stairs should not be less than 900 mm as shown inFigure 7 a).

10. Lifts

10.1 Every lift forming part of vertical access for the disabled persons should have anunobstructed depth in front of the lift doors of not less than 1800 mm.

10.2 It should maintain a floor level accuracy within a tolerance of 10 mm throughout therange of rated load.

10.3 The handrail in the lift car should not be less than 600 mm long at 1000 mm abovethe finished floor level and should be fixed adjacent to the control panel.

10.4 At least one lift car, adjacent to a public entrance that is accessible for disabledpersons, should be designed as a lift for wheelchair users, complying to all the sub-clauses ofthis clause, and should have space for a wheelchair to be turned through 180° inside the lift inaccordance with Figure 8.

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Figure 8. Lift car requirement

10.5 The lift door installation should provide the following:

a) the lift doors should be power operated;

b) should provide a clear opening of not less than 800 mm in accordance with Figure 8;

c) sensing devices should be provided to ensure that lift car and landing doors will notclose while the opening is obstructed, subject to the nudging provisions whichoperate if the door is held open for more than 20 s; and

d) if sensing devices as in c) above are not provided, the dwell time of an automaticallyclosing door should not be less than 5 s and the closing speed should not exceed0.25 m/s.

10.6 Lift controls should comply with the following:

a) Controls should be clearly indicated and easily operated in accordance with Clause27.

b) Call buttons should either project from or be flush with the face of the car-operatingpanel. The width or diameter of the buttons should not be less than 20 mm.

c) Floor buttons, alarm buttons or emergency telephone and door control buttons in lift carsand lobbies should not be higher than 1400 mm above finished floor level. Thehearing impaired can use an alarm button and not the emergency telephone. Analarm button should always be provided, and preferably of a design which lights upand produce sound when pressed to reassure those trapped inside.

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d) All buttons should be so designed that the sight impaired can identify them by touch.Button not already so designed are best modified by fixing, embossed or braillenumbers or letters, not on the buttons themselves, but adjacent to them.

10.7 Lift indicators should be provided in accordance with following:

a) 'Lift coming' or 'Call accepted' indicators should be provided at each landing.

b) Indicators should be provided in each lift lobby to show the position and direction of the liftcar; alternatively, an audible indicator should be provided to indicate in advance thearrival of the lift car and its direction of travel.

c) An indicator inside the car should signal clearly the direction of travel and the floor atwhich the lift car is situated.

d) Embossed and braille numbering indicating each floor level should be provided besidethe outside call button.

11. Escalators

11.1 Where escalators are installed, lifts or ramps should be available as an alternative.

11.2 The treads of escalators shall be easily distinguished from the floor and landing levelsby contrasting colours, brightness and texture. Their surfaces shall be slip-resistant.

11.3 To alert people with visual impairment that they are approaching escalators, a strip ofsuitable guiding blocks (refer Clause 15) of not less than 900 mm long should be laid on thefloor leading to the embarking end of the escalators.

12. Handrails

Pathways, corridors, ramps and staircases, which may be accessed by wheelchair usersand/or ambulant disabled persons, require handrails:

12.1 Fixed not less than 840 mm nor more than 900 mm from finished floor level, extendedin the case of ramp or stairway by 300 mm as shown in Figure 9.

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(a) Handrail on pathways or internal ramp

(b) Handrail on stairway

Figure 9. Handrails

12.2 The grip should not be less than 40 mm diameter nor more than 60 mm wide and itshould provide a secure non-slip grip as shown in Figure 10.

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Figure 10. Coordinating dimensions for handrail grip

12.3 Fixed securely with its ends turned away or turned downwards for not less than 100mm.

12.4 So fixed that there is no obstruction to the passage of the hand along the grip.

12.5 Fixed not less than 50 mm and not more than 100 mm from any adjacent wall.

12.6 Continued unbroken, if practicable, throughout each flight of stairs or along eachpathway or internal ramp and around landing and rest areas.

12.7 Which should preferably contrast in colour to their supporting walls.

12.8 Which if located at staircases and ramps should be capable of carrying a minimumload of 100 kg and available on both sides.

13. Grab rails

Water closets, urinals, bathtubs, showers and washbasins which may be accessed bywheelchair users and/or the ambulant disabled, require grab rails placed around thesefacilities:

13.1 Fixed not less than 750 mm nor more than 1200 mm from the floor, unless otherwisespecified.

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13.2 With an external diameter of not less than 30 mm nor more than 40 mm.

13.3 Projecting no more than 115 mm from the wall surface (except for back rest grab railsup to 250 mm), allowing the hand to grip the grab rail but not encroaching into the spacerequired for assisted transfers.

13.4 Constructed with the appropriate materials and in a manner that can support aminimum of 100 kg at any point.

13.5 Preferably contrasting in colour with their supporting wall and not easily corrosive.

14. Circulation spaces

14.1 Every circulation space, other than a step ramp complying Clause 7, forming part ofaccess for wheelchair users should have a clear width at every part of not less than 1200 mm.

14.2 Circulation spaces should not include any vertical change in level of more than ± 10mm.

14.3 The minimum distances between the doorways in a straight line forming access forwheelchair users should be the width of the widest door encroaching into the circulationspace together with 1200 mm, or 2000 mm, whichever is greater.

14.4 Where access for wheelchair users involve a change of direction to gain accessto an area off a circulation space, the circulation space should have a width of not lessthan 1200 mm.

14.5 The unobstructed space to be provided in an area leading off a circulation spaceshould be in accordance with either of the alternatives in Figure 11.

Figure 11. Areas off circulation space

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14.6 People with impaired vision who find their way with sticks can most easily follow aplain vertical wall, and deep recessing should be avoided. Isolated pillars are also a hazard tothem. The vertical corners of walls and pillars both inside and outside the buildings should berounded off to reduce the risk of injury to them.

15. Guiding blocks

15.1 Guiding blocks should be provided to assist sight-impaired people where they needeither warning of dangers ahead such as obstacles and hazards, or guidance as to thecorrect route to follow for example :

a) at the entry points to doors, entrances, location with change of levels including stairs, lifts,escalators, ramps and others obstacles or hazards; or

b) layout of guiding blocks should be arranged at strategic points such as main entrances.

15.2 A guiding block should meet the following requirements:

a) it must be detectable underfoot;

b) it must be easily installed and maintained;

c) it must be of durable non-slip material; and

d) it must be contrast in colour with adjacent surfaces.

15.3 The blocks forming a guiding block of the layout should be set adjacent to oneanother with the base level of their upper surfaces flush with that adjacent footpath orcarriageway. They must adhere firmly with the base material below. Regular inspection,maintenance and repairs should be carried out specifically of guiding blocks.

15.4 There are two types of blocks bearing different kinds of raised marking:

a) Line-type blocks, as in Figure 12 a), indicate the correct route to follow, namely that inwhich the lines point.

b) Dot-type blocks, as in Figure 12 b), give a warning signal. They are used to screen off anobstacle, drop-off or other hazard; to discourage movement in an incorrect direction;and to warn of a corner or junction in the correct route. For either type, the blocksused within any layout of guiding blocks should all be of similar design anddimension.

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a) Line-type blocks

b) Dot-type blocks

Figure 12. Examples of guiding blocks

15.5 Where guiding blocks are used to warn of hazard, the distance between the hazardand the edge of the nearest block should normally be 600 mm; but at the dangerous drop-offsuch as a railway platform it should be 900 mm. Where used at doors, entrances, stairs, lifts,escalators and ramps, the distance to the edge of the nearest guiding block should be 300mm.

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a) Guiding blocks used at entrances

b) Guiding blocks used at stairs

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c) Guiding blocks along corridors linking to stairs

Figure 13. Examples of guiding blocks layouts

15.6 The sides of blocks should not be less than 300 mm long. Their raised markingsshould be regularly arranged, and should stand out 5 mm to 6 mm above the base level oftheir upper surface; they should be 25 mm to 35 mm wide, and spaced with their centres ormiddle lines 50 mm to 70 mm apart. Examples of blocks of suitable design and dimensionsare given in Figure 12.

15.7 Figure 13 shows how layouts of guiding blocks should be arranged at importantpoints such as main entrances, stairs and turning point at corners.

16. Summary of toilet requirements

16.1 In every public building to which access for disabled persons is required, waterclosets for wheelchair users should be provided in accordance with Table 1.

Table 1. Water closets for wheelchair users

Number of water closets in the building Minimum number for use by wheelchair users

1 to 50 (i) One unit for use by both males and females; or

(ii) One unit for use by males only and another one for females only.

51 to 100 (i) Two units for use by both males and females; or

(ii) One unit for use by both males and females, one for use by malesonly, and another one for females only

More than 100 (i) As for 51 to 100; together with

(ii) 0ne unit for use by both males and females for each additional 50water closets or part thereof in excess of 100 water closets.

NOTE. The unisex water closet is recommended in areas used by the general public, e.g. shopping centres, hotels andthe like where a disabled person may be accompanied by an attendant of the opposite sex. This type of toilet facilityshould be a public facility located so that access to it does not necessitate traversing an area reserved for one sex only.

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16.2 If in buildings used by the general public (see note to Table 1) such water closets arenot provided on all floors, then notices (see Clause 28) should be displayed at the toilets andlifts on other floors saying where they are located.

16.3 Where appropriate other toilet facilities for the disabled should be provided accordingto Clauses 18 and 20.

17. Water closets

17.1 Water closets for wheelchair users should comply with the following:

a) In every public building required under 16.1 to be provided for water closets for use bywheelchair users, the water closets should be accompanied by an unobstructed areahaving dimensions not less than those shown in Figure 14, but the layout of the watercloset and unobstructed area may be reversed in plan (mirror image).

b) The water closets should be provided either:

i) as a combined water closet and washroom as shown in Figure 15 i); or

ii) as water closets for use by men or women. In this case separate washingfacilities are to be provided together with the water closets as shown inFigure 15 ii), where the washbasin is to be located within the unobstructedarea or common facilities outside the water closets.

Figure 14. General requirement for water closet

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Figure 15 i). Combined water closet and washroom

Figure 15 ii). Separate water closets for wheelchair user

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Figure 15 iii). Separate water closets for wheelchair user

c) Where two or more water closets are provided for wheelchairs in the same publicbuilding, at least one such closet and accompanying unobstructed area should bereversed in plan (mirror image) to the other closet.

d) Every door to a room containing a water closet for wheelchair users should:

i) be provided with a lever-action type indicator bolt so design that the door canbe opened at any time from the outside, and

ii) if a hinged door, open away from the water closets and be hinged on the sidefurthest from the closet and located in the position shown in Figure 15 i) orFigure 15 ii).

e) Every room containing a water closet for wheelchair users should have grab rails asClause 13.

f) The flushing control for the water closet should be located not more than 1000 mm abovethe finished floor level and be activated by a downward operating lever, push button orany other convenient system.

g) A tap with a flexible hose or other cleaning device which can be used for personalcleansing, and a toilet paper holder, should be provided with each water closet withineasy reach of the users as shown in Figure 15 iii).

h) The design of the water closets pan should allow a wheelchair with its footrest raised toapproach from the front until the wheelchair seat touches the closet bowl.

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i) It should also be possible for a wheelchair to back alongside the water closet on itsunobstructed side until the two seats are in line.

j) The water closets should be accessible by disabled persons from a main entrance, liftor other circulation space which is in accordance with Clauses 6, 10 or 14.

17.2 Water closets for ambulant disabled only should comply with the following:

a) Except for the width of the unobstructed area, the requirements for a water closet forwheelchair users in accordance with 17.1b) ii) should apply to water closets forambulant disabled.

b) The configuration of a water closet should be in accordance with Figure 15 iv) and thenotes thereto.

c) Grab rails should be located on each side of the water closet and should also be ofthe configuration shown in Figure 15 iv).

Figure 15 iv). Water closet for ambulant disabled

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18. Urinals

Urinals provided to be used for disabled persons should comply with the following:

a) Where wall-hung urinals are installed, at least one should have a lip height of 400 mmabove the finished floor, and there should be no step or hob as indicated in Figure 16.

a) Wall hung urinals b) Stall urinals

Figure 16. Urinals and grab rails

b) Where stall urinals are provided, they should be constructed without a step or hob,and at least one stall should be not less than 760 mm wide.

c) Grab rails should be fixed to the wall or partitions of the urinals as shown in Figure16.

19. Shower facilities

19.1 In every public building where showers are provided for use by wheelchair users orambulant disabled persons, each shower should be accompanied by an unobstructed areahaving dimensions not less than those shown in Figure 17 but the layout of the shower andunobstructed area may be reversed in plan.

19.2 The shower recess should not be separated by a door from the unobstructed area. Ifa drying space is required for dressing and undressing, it should be separated from theshower recess by a curtain or a sliding screen with a flush door track.

19.3 The dressing space should be fitted with a cloth-hanging device not less than 1200mm nor more than 1400 mm above the finished floor level.

19.4 The floor of the shower recess should be a continuation of the floor of theunobstructed area, without a kerb, self-draining, water proof and non-slip.

19.5 A self-draining and non-slip fixed or foldable seat should be provided in the showerrecess, and another in the unobstructed area, at a height not less than 450 mm nor more than500 mm above the finished floor level.

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19.6 Grab rails should be fixed to the wall of the shower recess as shown in Figure 17.

Figure 17. Shower facilities

19.7 Soap holders should be fully recessed into the wall of the shower recess, located notless than 1000 mm nor more than 1200 mm above the finished floor level, and situated sothat they are within reach by persons using the shower seat.

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19.8 The shower controls and fittings should be located not less than 1000 mm nor morethan 1200 mm above the finished floor level, and situated so that they are within reach bypersons using the shower seat and by a carer from outside the shower recess.

19.9 A portable shower head attached to a flexible hose not less than 1500 mm in lengthshould be installed in the shower recess, and a fitting should be provided to which the showerhead can be attached at varying angles between 900 mm and 1900 mm above the finishedfloor level.

19.10 Thermostatic mixing valves should be installed for showers.

19.11 If a pole is used in conjunction with the portable shower head, the pole should be soconstructed and installed as to be capable of being used as a vertical grab rail, and in suchcases a vertical grab rail need not be provided.

19.12 Where two or more showers are provided for disabled persons in the same building,at least one should be reversed in plan (mirror images) to the others provided.

19.13 Every door in a room containing such a shower for disabled persons should beprovided with a lever-action type indicator bolt attached to the inside, which is so design thatthe door can be opened at any time from the outside.

20. Washbasins and other facilities

20.1 Except as provided in Clause 17 for water closets, every washbasin provided for useby disabled persons should comply with the following:

a) The washbasin should be wall-mounted to provide minimum clearance as shown inFigure 18.

Figure 18. Location of washbasin and other facilities

b) Water taps should comply with Clause 27.

c) Hot water supply pipes should be insulated.

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d) Water supply pipes and waste outlet pipes should not encroach on the required clearspace under the washbasin.

20.2 Soap dispensers, sanitary disposal units, towel dispensers etc. provided with thefacilities referred to in Clauses 17.1, 19 or 21 should be installed at a height not less than 900mm nor more than 1000 mm above the finished floor level. The heights should be measuredas shown in Table 2.

Table 2. Points for dispenser

Facility Point from which measurement to be made

Soap Dispenser or Towel Dispenser

Sanitary Disposal Unit

The discharge outlet of the dispenser

The opening of the fitting

20.3 Where a mirror is provided with the facilities referred to in Clauses 19, 20 or 21, thebase should not be more than 1000 mm above the finished floor level and it should be tilteddown by 5° to give complete visibility.

20.4 Where a cloth hanging device is provided together with facilities referred in Clauses17.1, 19, 20 or 21, the device should be located not less than 1200 mm nor more than 1400mm above the finished floor level.

21. Bath

In every public building where baths are provided for wheelchair users or ambulant disabledpersons, they should comply with the following:

21.1 The bath should be accompanied by an unobstructed area having a dimension notless than 1800 mm on one side and at least one end.

21.2 The bath should have straight sides 480 mm high from the floor level, with flat topsnot less than 75 mm wide and rounded at the edges, as shown in Figure 19.

21.3 Grab rails should be provided as shown in Figure 19.

21.4 Where two or more baths are provided for wheelchair users in the same building atleast one should be reversed in plan (mirror images) to the other provided.

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Figure 19. Bath requirement

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22. Combined water closet and shower recess

Where a water closet, washbasin and shower recess are combined, the installation should bein accordance with Figure 20.

Figure 20. Combined water closet and shower recess

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23. Shelving and wall units

23.1 For wheelchair users:

Shelving and wall units for use by wheelchair users should comply with the following:

a) The configuration of unobstructed shelving and wall units should be as shown inFigure 21 a) including the notes thereto.

b) The configuration of shelving and wall units adjacent to work surfaces should be asshown in Figure 21 b) including the notes thereto.

c) The vertical space between hotplate elements or burners and combustible materialshould not be less than 750 mm.

Figure 21 a). Configuration of unobstructed shelving andwall units for wheelchair users

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Figure 21 b). Configuration of shelving and wall units adjacent towork surfaces for wheelchair users

23.2 For ambulant disabled persons:

Shelving and wall units for use by ambulant disabled persons should comply with thefollowing:

a) The configuration of unobstructed shelving or wall units should be as shown in Figure22 a) including the notes thereto.

b) The configuration of shelving or wall units adjacent to work surfaces should be asshown in Figure 22 b) including the notes thereto.

Figure 22 a). Configuration of unobstructed shelving and wall units for ambulantdisabled persons

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Figure 22 b). Configuration of shelving and wall units adjacent to work surfaces forambulant disabled persons

c) The vertical space between hotplate elements or burners and combustible materialshould not be less than 750 mm.

24. Work surfaces

24.1 Fixed work surfaces provided for use by wheelchair users where the arm rests of thewheelchair are removable should be in accordance with Figure 23 and have an unobstructedseating width of not less than 750 mm, within which there should be clear space at least 450mm void.

Figure 23. Fixed work surface for disabled

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24.2 Edges and corners of fixed work surfaces should be rounded.

24.3 Where transaction are done between staff and public across a counter, at least partof the counter should be lowered and constructed on the public side as a work surface forwheelchair users in accordance with this clause.

25. Projections, guard rails, openings and drops

25.1 Hanging signs, lights, awnings and similar objects that protrude into circulationspaces should have a minimum clearance height of 2000 mm clear.

25.2 Windows or doors should not open across access walkways, corridors, stairs orramps such that they obstruct circulation.

25.3 Guard rails must be provided alongside any drop-off to avoid hazards to people withvisual impairment and the public.

25.4 Openings of any forms whatsoever and any sudden drop of more than 75 mm fromthe floor level across walkways, corridors or any other means of access should be adequatelyindicated and protected in order to avoid hazard to people with visual impairment.

26. Finishes

26.1 Floor finishes:

Floor finishes should have a non-slip surface with a texture traversal by disabled persons.The following finishes are acceptable.

a) For wet locations including interior surfaces which are frequently washed:

- concrete with abrasive or textured surface;

- concrete with exposed aggregate finish;

- bituminous concrete;

- natural stone with rough finish;

- paving bricks with special abrasive finish;

- vinyl, specially formulated with embossed surface; or

- rubber, specially formulated with embossed surface.

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b) For dry locations:

Including all materials suitable for wet locations, short pile carpet and smooth flooringmaterials such as the following:

- cork:

- linoleum;

- vinyl;

- timber;

- terrazzo; and

- any other similar material.

26.2 Other requirements

Contrasting textures and colour and brightness should be used to emphasise obstructions orhazards such as ramps, radiators, exposed beams etc. Since red or green colour blindness ismore common among people with low vision, red and green should not be chosen as a pair ofcontrasting colours.

27. Controls for use by disabled persons

27.1 Locking and opening controls for windows and doors should be readily accessible,fixed not more than 1200 mm above the finished floor level, operable by one hand, and notobstructed by any fitting or appliances.

27.2 Where there are disabled persons living in public buildings such as senior citizenhomes or hostels, operating of windows should be made accessible to them whethermanually or electrical aided.

27.3 Electrical fittings should comply with the followings:

a) All light switches should be horizontally aligned with door handles and other fixturesand fittings not less than 900 mm nor more than 1200mm above the finished floorlevel in accordance with Figure 24 and not less than 500 mm from corners.

b) The toggle, rocker, push pad or, push buttons of light switches should project clear ofthe switch plate and have a width not less than 10 mm.

c) General power outlets should be fixed not less than 500 mm above the finished floorlevel and not less than 500 mm from corners.

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Figure 24. Heights of switches, general power, outlets and door handle

27.4 One of any group of telephone for public use shall be designed for wheelchair andhearing-impaired users. Such telephone booths should not have any doors or steps, and ifthere are side-walls they should be at least 800 mm apart. The coin-slot, card-slot and dial orbuttons should be no higher than 1000 mm above the ground and the dial or buttons shouldface forwards rather than upwards. A shelf should be provided where the deaf can place thekeyboard of their telecommunication device. The shelf should be 300 mm x 300 mm in size,and placed at least 200 mm below the telephone.

27.5 Vending machines, automatic teller machines and other such facilities should beaccessible to wheelchair users. The coin-slot, card-slot and buttons should be no higher than1000 mm above the ground and should face forwards rather than upwards.

27.6 Water taps should comply with the followings:

a) Taps should have long handles lever. The water should be delivered through a centremixing bib.

b) The taps should not be less than 50 mm away from the back wall.

27.7 Door handles and related hardware and accessories should comply with thefollowing:

a) Doors should be operable with one hand. Handles or other operating deviser shouldnot be less than 900 mm nor more than 1200 mm above the finished floor level andshould be horizontally aligned with any adjacent light switches as shown in Figure 24.

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b) Handles for hinged door should be made from non-slip material of lever action typeas shown in Figure 25 a).

c) The clearance between the handles and the back plate should not be less than 50mm.

d) Where a door closer is fitted, the pressure required to open the door should not bemore than 36 N for external doors and 22 N for internal doors.

e) An auxiliary handrail should be fixed closed for the handles to the door for easiermanipulation by disabled persons and should be fixed as shown in Figure 25 b).

Figure 25. Door handle and auxiliary rails locations

28. Signs and symbols

28.1 The international symbol of access is white on a background of light French blue orvice versa, as shown in Figure 26 a) below.

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Figure 26 a). International symbol of access for disabled persons.(the grid is for setting purposes only)

Figure 26 b). Example of sign and symbol indicating facilities and its direction

28.2 The size of the symbol for access should not be less than those given in Table 3.

Table 3. Size of symbol for access for varying viewing distances

Required viewing distances ( m ) Minimum size of symbol ( mm )

0 – 7 60 x 60

7 – 18 Min. 110 x 110

> 18 Max. 450 x 450

INFORMATION SYMBOL DIRECTION

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28.3 Basic or minimum location for the signs are external parking areas, pathways, allmain entrance and other subsidiary entrances usable by disabled persons, the receptionarea, lift lobbies and within the lifts, toilets and emergency exits.

28.4 Additional required location for the signs will depend on the individual nature of thefacility for example ablution area of the “surau” (muslim prayer room), cafeteria, informationcounter at the shopping complexes, wards area of the hospitals and special bedroom in thehotels.

28.5 The signs and symbols at a public building should together provide an adequatedirectory to enable disabled persons to identify the location of all existing facilities provided forthem, especially the water closets for wheelchair users.

28.6 The size, type and layout of lettering on signs should be clear and legible and theheight of the lettering should be not less than those given in Table 4 below:

Table 4. Height of letters for varying viewing distances

Required viewing distance ( m ) Minimum height of letters ( mm )2 63 126 208 2512 4015 5025 8035 10040 13050 150

28.7 Additional signs with Braille or embossed lettering can be use for the blind as shownin Figure 27.

Figure 27. Example of sign and symbols with tactile additions for the blind

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28.8 For hotels and other public accommodation, it is recommended that the localauthority, tourism development office or a voluntary organisation should compile a brochurelisting those with facilities for disabled. Signs can be displayed outside such establishments,with the consent of their management.

29. Announcements, signals and warnings for people with defectivesight or hearing impaired

All public buildings should provide the following requirements :

29.1 Public announcement systems and emergency warning signals should be bothaudible and visible.

29.2 Should be clearly identified by illumination guide or guiding blocks surface forexample nosing of staircases for either normal or emergency use.

29.3 Where it is not possible to lock a door leading to a dangerous area, the hazardsshould be identified for the blind with a guiding block layout which can be supplemented byother methods such as fixing of indicators to the underside of handrails to indicate position oflanding, knurling of door handles, raised letters immediately adjacent to the door handles etc.

29.4 The illumination levels in the respective areas should not be lower than thoseindicated in Table 5.

Table 5. Levels of illumination

Location Illumination (lux)Passageways and walkways 150Stairs and landing 150Ramps 150Lifts 150Toilet and locker rooms 200Counter tops 250General displays 200-300

30. Landscape

30.1 Soft landscape and hard landscape should not obstruct the disabled at places in themain stream of circulation such as the lobby, entrances, foyer, corridors, staircases,courtyards, lounge, toilets, restaurant and indoor swimming pool.

30.2 Any decoration features which are located in the circulation area, should besurrounded by a temporary kerb and should be high enough to be conspicuous.

30.3 Any mannequin or decoration features such as the decor of festival theme inshopping complexes should have stable stands or bases with a minimum height of 450 mmfrom floor level when located in the circulation area.

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30.4 Any water features should be surrounded by a wall with a minimum height of 600 mmfrom floor level for the safety of visually impaired.

31. Hotel bedrooms

All disabled persons who stay overnight in a hotel, particularly those who are travelling alone,require special features in the bedrooms and attached bathrooms which they use. Some of thesefeatures relate to structural design and some to furnishing.

31.1 Bedrooms for wheelchair user, and especially their bathrooms, will probably have to bebigger than those provided for other hotels guests, and should be planned for when the hotel isfirst designed. 1 % of the rooms should be designed for them, and equipped according to therequirements given in Table 6.

31.2 Bedrooms for ambulant disabled, who include the blind and deaf as well as those whouse walking aids, can probably be of the same size and standard design as those for other hotelguest, but require special furnishing and fittings. 2.5 % of the rooms should be equipped for themaccording to the requirements given in Table 6.

31.3 However, if it proves more convenient at the time of designing and building the hotel, asingle type of bedroom suitable for both groups of disabled persons may be provided instead. Inthis case 3 % of the rooms should be designed and equipped according to the combinedrequirements given in Table 6.

31.4 Hotel bedrooms (designated at time of construction or renovation) for disabled personsshould be :

a) preferably on ground floor near exit;

b) preferably nearer to a fire exit; and

c) identified by the hotels management system.

Table 6. Requirements for hotel bedroom

Table 6 a). For wheelchair user

Bathroom i) A combined toilet and washroom of special design, with water closet, wash basin and either a bath orshower with fixed seat (see Clauses 16, 17, 17.1).

ii) At the door from bedroom there should not be any raised threshold to jump over; while the drop downshould be minimal and ramped rather than vertical.

Furniture i) The high and low limits of wheelchair user's reach (see 23.1) must be remembered for furnitureprovided whether built-in or installed later. For example rails to hang clothing, drawers and shelves shouldbe at height within easy reach.

ii) Table top, refer to Clause 24 and for mirror refer to 20.3.

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Table 6 a). For wheelchair user (continued)

Fixtures i) Switches, plugs, telephone, window fastening etc. should be placed within easy reach (refer toClause 27).

Bed i) For ease of transfer the height of the made-up bed should be about the same as the wheelchairseatwith cushion (450 mm-550 mm).

ii) To assist movement when on the bed, a 'monkey pole' or similar device should be installed onrequest.

Layout i) There should be no step at the door into the corridor. Within the bedroom there should be amplefloorspace for the wheelchair to shunt, turn, and come alongside the bed for transfer (see Clause 14).

ii) Some wheelchair users are accustomed to doing their transfers (bed, bath etc.) from one side andsome from the other; so it is good to have such rooms available in two mirror-image versions.

Balcony i)The size of balcony should be big enough for wheelchair users to manoeuvre. Refer to bathroomitem (ii) above.

ii) The height of balcony railing should not be less than 900 mm.

Table 6 b). For ambulant disabled

Bathroom i) The water closet should be according to 17.2.

ii) Taps should have central mixer outlets, and hot pipes should be lagged for safety for the blind.

iii) The floor should be of non-slip material.

iv) Where the floor space is large, those using artificial leg or calipers require:

a) shower chair with castors; and

b) grab rails with which to manoeuvre it or wheelchair for shower.

Furniture i) Avoid sharp corners for the safety of the blind (see 23.2).

Fixtures i) Door handle, switches etc. (refer to Clause 27).

Signals i) The door bell, besides ringing, should actuate a flashing light for the deaf to see.

ii) Regarding the fire alarm requirement, the fire authority should be consulted.

Outside i) On the outside of the door, within easy reach, there should be an embossed or Braille number whichthe can sight impaired can feel.

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