project name: embassy of india 69 merrion road...

DISABILITY ACCESS CERTIFICATE COMPLIANCE REPORT

Project Name: Embassy of India

69 Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

Report Number: 14336-CRD-1

Date: April 2016

Project Number: 14336

Prepared By: Daniel Tiedemann

Checked By: Conor Finnegan

Approved By: Ray Cuddihy

Client: The Office of the Ambassador of India - 2 - Project Number: 14336

Introduction

Description of Works This Disability Access Certificate Application is for the proposed material alterations to the existing

three storey embassy building and extension to the rear consisting of a new basement and ground

floor at 69 Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.

This Disability Access Certificate application will relate only to the proposed area as above which is

relevant to this application and also all other areas that may be relevant to the proposed application

i.e. Approach Routes etc.

This report will demonstrate that there will be no new or greater contravention to the existing requirements of the building due to the proposed works.

This entire application will be based on Technical Guidance Document M 2010 of the Building

Regulations and will demonstrate compliance with;

Section 1.1 – Approach to buildings other than dwellings

Section 1.2 – Access to buildings other than dwellings

Section 1.3 – Circulation within buildings other than dwellings

Section 1.4 – Sanitary Facilities for buildings other than dwellings

Section 1.5 – Other Facilities in buildings other than dwellings

Section 1.6 – Aids to communication

Scope The following report will be based upon Technical Guidance Document M 2010, with reference will

also being made, where applicable, to BS 8300: 2009 +A1:2010; Code of practice in the Design of

buildings and their approaches to Meet the needs of disabled people, and ‘Building For Everyone: A

Universal Design Approach’ published by the National Disability Authority.

It is noted that Section 5(a) from Article 8 of S.I. No. 351 of 2009 Building Control (Amendment)

Regulations 2009, states where an application is made to a building control authority for a disability

access certificate, the authority, in considering such application, shall —

a) Be restricted to considering only the extent to which the design or works complies with the requirements of Part M of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations, and

b) Have due regard to any dispensation or relaxation in respect of, or which is relevant to, the works or building to which the application relates.

Accordingly this application need not address the new Caretaker’s Residence as this is a separate

residential building which does not require to apply for a Disability Access Certificate

The following documents form part of this Disability Access Certificate Application for the works;

• Disability Access Certificate Compliance Report

• Cheque for €500.00

• Completed Disability Access Certificate Application Form


Contents

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................... 2

DESCRIPTION OF WORKS ........................................................................................................................................... 2

SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................................... 2

CONTENTS ....................................................................................................................................................... 3

0.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.......................................................................................................................... 5

0.1. SITE LOCATION ............................................................................................................................................ 5

0.2. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORKS ................................................................................................................. 5

0.3. NATURE AND EXTENT OF PROPOSED AND EXISTING USES ...................................................................................... 5

0.4. OBJECTIVE .................................................................................................................................................. 5

0.5. USERS OF THE BUILDING ............................................................................................................................... 6

SCHEDULE OF DRAWINGS ................................................................................................................................ 7

1.0 APPROACH TO A BUILDING .................................................................................................................. 8

1.1. ACCESS ROUTES GENERAL ............................................................................................................................. 8

1.2. LEVEL ACCESS ROUTES .................................................................................................................................. 8

1.3. ON-SITE CAR PARKING ................................................................................................................................. 9

1.4. ON-SITE SETTING DOWN AREAS ..................................................................................................................... 9

2.0 ACCESS INTO A BUILDING ................................................................................................................... 10

2.1. ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCES .............................................................................................................................. 10

2.2. ENTRANCE LOBBIES .................................................................................................................................... 12

3.0 CIRCULATION WITHIN A BUILDING ..................................................................................................... 13

3.1. RECEPTION AREAS ..................................................................................................................................... 13

3.2. INTERNAL DOORS ...................................................................................................................................... 13

3.3. CORRIDORS AND PASSAGEWAYS ................................................................................................................... 13

3.4. INTERNAL LOBBIES ..................................................................................................................................... 14

3.5. PASSENGER LIFT ........................................................................................................................................ 14

3.6. INTERNAL STAIRS ....................................................................................................................................... 15

3.7. INTERNAL RAMPS ...................................................................................................................................... 16

3.8. HANDRAILS ............................................................................................................................................... 16

4.0 SANITARY CONVENIENCES.................................................................................................................. 17

4.1. NUMBER & LOCATION OF ACCESSIBLE WCS ................................................................................................... 17

4.2. PROVISION OF WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE UNISEX WCS ....................................................................................... 17

4.3. PROVISIONS FOR WC CUBICLES .................................................................................................................... 20

4.4. PROVISIONS FOR URINALS ........................................................................................................................... 20

4.5. PROVISIONS FOR ACCESSIBLE BATHROOMS/SHOWER ROOMS ............................................................................. 20

4.6. ACCESSIBLE WC CUBICLES ALARM & FEATURES .............................................................................................. 20

5.0 OTHER FACILITIES ............................................................................................................................... 22

5.1. GENERAL.................................................................................................................................................. 22

5.2. REFRESHMENT FACILITIES ............................................................................................................................ 23

5.3. ACCESSIBLE SLEEPING ACCOMMODATION ....................................................................................................... 23


5.4. AUDIENCE AND SPECTATOR FACILITIES ........................................................................................................... 23

6.0 AIDS TO COMMUNICATION ................................................................................................................ 24

6.1. GENERAL.................................................................................................................................................. 24

6.2. SIGNAGE AND WAY FINDING ........................................................................................................................ 25

6.3. LIGHTING ................................................................................................................................................. 27

6.4. AUDIBLE AIDS ........................................................................................................................................... 27

LEGAL ............................................................................................................................................................ 28


0.0 Executive Summary

0.1. Site Location The site is located in the urban area of Dublin 4 and is situated on a level site. The original building is

a semi-detached period building which will be extended to the rear as part of the proposed work.

There will be a Caretaker’s Residence on the same site but this will not be required to apply for a

Disability Access Certificate application.

0.2. Description of proposed works In summary the following works are proposed:

• Extensive material alterations to the existing internal layout on all floors.

• Extension to the rear of the premises including a new basement floor, Library facilities on

ground floor, and office spaces on the upper floors.

• Construction of a new single staircase for the basement.

• Construction of a new lift. There will also be a food lift provided between the basement

kitchen and the ground floor.

0.3. Nature and extent of proposed and existing uses The proposed building will be fully accessible for all people via the new public and staff entrances

located at the side of the building on ground floor level. The original upper ground floor level of the

period building (in this application called “First Floor” is only accessible via the external entrance

stairs. However as a result of the proposed works all floors will be accessible via the proposed

passenger lift.

The ground floor will be the largest floor of the building and will contain all public areas. The First and

Second floor will be used for offices and meeting rooms. There will be two wheelchair accessible WCs

provided on the ground floor, one in the public and one in the staff area. As the upper floors only

consist of a small number of offices occupied by a small number of people and the space is restricted,

only one normal user WC is provided on first and two normal user WCs on second floor (e.g. one

common and one designated to the Ambassadors Office.

As the doors to the Ambassadors Office and the Waiting Room on second floor will be existing

historic doors, the 300mm beside the leading edge of the door is restricted. However as visitors will

usually be guided into these rooms this is considered acceptable.

0.4. Objective This Disability Access Certificate application is primarily concerned with ensuring that the

accommodation is accessible and useable by everyone regardless of age, gender or ability, whilst

showing compliance with Part M of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations.

Adequate provision shall be made to enable people with disabilities to safely and independently

access and use a building. This report applies to buildings other than dwellings.


0.5. Users of the Building The maximum number of people within the accommodation was determined within the Fire Safety

Certificate application covering these works as being as follows;

Room/Storey Area

m2

Use Occupancy

Load Factor 1

Proposed

Occupancy

Basement

General Storage 37.1 Store 30.0 2

Kitchen 17.9 Kitchen 7.0 3

Plant Rooms 14.2 Plant 30.0 1

Secure Store 12.0 Store 30.0 1

Document Storage 24.5 Store 30.0 1

Subtotal: 7

Ground Floor

Open Plan Library 86.8 Library No. of seats 50

Attaché 23.7 Office No. of seats 3

PA Office 15.8 Office No. of seats 3

Chauffeur 3.9 Office No. of seats 1

Security Control 23.26 Office No. of seats 1

Office Area 30.9 Office No. of seats 5

Public Office 21.0 Office 5.0 5

Subtotal: 68

First Floor

Minister / Counsellor 25.8 Office No. of seats 3

Head of Chancery 17.3 Office No. of seats 3

GA & AA 18.3 Office No. of seats 2

PA Office 8.6 Office No. of seats 3

Conference Room 40.9 Meeting Room No. of seats 16

Office 15.6 Office No. of seats 2

Subtotal: 29

Second Floor

Ambassadors Office 27.5 Office No. of seats 3

Waiting Room 24.2 Waiting Room No. of seats 5

PA to Ambassador 18.0 Office No. of seats 3

Social Secretary 10.3 Office No. of seats 1

Communications Room 16.3 Office No. of seats 2

Subtotal: 14

Total = 118


Schedule of Drawings This report should be read in conjunction with the following Disability Access Certificate drawings.

All Architectural drawings have been provided by the applicant1. Disability Access Certificate details

on the drawings have been added by Pro-Fire & Design Ltd.

Drawing Number Drawing Title Scale

13.54.03.02P Urban PLACE Map 1:1,000

14336-DR-02 Site Layout 1:200

14366-DR-03 Basement Plan 1:100

14336-DR-04 Ground Floor Plan 1:100

14336-DR-05 First Floor Plan 1:100

14336-DR-06 Second Floor Plan 1:100

14336-DR-07 Elevations 1 1:100

14336-DR-08 Elevations 2 and Section B-B 1:100

Note 1: Pro-Fire & Design Ltd are not responsible for any errors or omissions on drawings provided to us for the purposes of

the preparation of the Disability Access Certificate drawings.


1.0 Approach To A Building Ref. Paragraph 1.1 & 2.1 TGD-M 2010

The following recommendations from Technical Guidance Document M apply to buildings other than

dwellings. Reference will also be made, where applicable, to BS 8300: 2009 +A1: 2010 & “Building

For Everyone: A Universal Design Approach”.

1.1. Access Routes General Ref. Paragraph 1.1.3 TGD-M 2010

To reduce the risks to people with disabilities, particularly those with impaired sight, building features

which may present hazards on circulation routes immediately adjacent to them will be avoided.

In addition;

a) We wish to confirm that none of the windows directly adjacent to an access or egress route will open outwards in such a manner that would prejudice the route.

b) The approach route to the building will be by way of the yard and onsite footpaths. A width of at least 1.8m is provided with a height of at least 2.2m above ground level.

c) These approach routes will not involve negotiating any new, parking meters, or setting down or picking-up points, turnstiles, revolving doors or escalators. There will be a security call point at the entrance gate and a security check point in the public area. All controls will be accessible in accordance with 1.5.7 TGD-M 2010

d) All street furniture like litter bins, light posts, seats etc. will be located at or beyond boundaries.

e) There will be no new restrictions or hazards provided immediately adjacent to the access route to the accommodation.1.8m wide and 1.8m deep clear areas immediately in front of the entrances are provided.

f) Care will also be exercised in the siting and orientation of any new external lamps to avoid glare and cross-shadows which can prevent blind and partially sighted people distinguishing any changes in gradient. A minimum 20 lux will be provided on level and gently sloped access and minimum 100 lux on ramps and steps.

g) Any new ground level access junction boxes will be flush with the paving slabs to ensure they do not become a trip hazard. The covering will be a typical black plastic covering.

h) The surface will be concrete or tarmac and therefore slip resistant according to BS 8300: 2009+ A1:2010 Annex E

i) Any bollards provided will contrast with their background and will be at least 1,000mm high. None of the bollards will be connected with a chain.

1.2. Level Access Routes Ref. Paragraph 1.1.3.2 & 2.1.3.2 TGD-M 2010

The entrance from the site gate to the proposed public and staff entrance will be accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair users. The access route to the main entrance is less than 1:50 steep and can be considered as level. Therefore:

a) The minimum clear width between walls upstands or kerbs will not be less than 1,500mm. b) The access route will be over 1,800mm wide therefore passing places do not need to be

provided


Please refer to the table below for a summary of all the approach routes provided to the building which are designed in accordance with the recommendations detailed above. Refer to enclosed drawings for reference to each approach route provided.

Route From To Level / Gently

Sloping / Ramped

Gradient Minimum

Width (mm)

User

Approach

Route A

Site Entrance Entrances level 1:50 or less

steep

1800mm Public

& Staff

1.3. On-Site Car Parking Ref. Paragraph 1.1.5 TGD-M 2010

As shown on the enclosed site plan there will be onsite car parkin provided. However, this is an

extremely small area and only four spaces are provided. These spaces will not be for the public.

Therefore there will be no designated accessible car parking space marked as this is considered not

practicable. However if any user of the building will require more space it can be simply arranged and

the car can just be parked on the open area in front of the parking spaces.

Should any permanent staff require an accessible car parking space permanently, this will be

provided then by reducing the number of normal user spaces.

1.4. On-Site Setting Down Areas Ref. Paragraph 1.1.6 TGD-M 2010

There is no setting down area indicated on the attached drawings. However area in front of the

building can be used for setting down.


2.0 Access Into A Building

2.1. Accessible Entrances Ref. Paragraph 1.2.3; TGD-M 2010

In accordance with Section 1.2 of TGD-M 2010, independently accessible entrances will be provided

to avoid segregation based on a person's level of ability.

The accessible entrances have been clearly indicated on plan and elevation (at the side of the

building) and are:

• the public entrance, which a visitor unfamiliar with the building would use

• the staff entrance

Each accessible entrance is configured so that;

a) The entrance doorway of the public entrance provides a minimum effective clear width of

800mm to comply with Table 2 of TGD-M 2010

At least one leaf of the double leaf doors of the staff entrance will provide a minimum effective

clear opening width of 825mm to comply with Table 2 of TGD-M 2010.

b) The requirement for an unobstructed space of at least 300mm next to the leading edge of the

doors will not apply to the entrances as they are either an automatic sliding door or double

leaf door

c) A level landing of 1,800mm x 1,800mm will be provided in front of each entrance. It will be

clear of any door or gate.

d) No structural support at the entrance will present a hazard for people with vision impairment.

e) There will be no changes in floor materials adjacent to the threshold. If mat wells are provided

they will be level with the surface of the adjacent floor.

f) Door handles will be located at a height between 800mm and 1050mm (900mm preferred)

above FFL.

The grip zone of the pull handles will be located between 700mm and 1000mm above finish

floor level. The top end of the pull handle will be located minimum 1,300mm above floor level.

The entrance door will be fully glazed doors.

g) All fully glazed doors or panes are to be permanently marked to visually indicate the presence

of the leaf. These markings will be located within two zones, from 850mm to 1,000mm and

from 1,400mm to 1,600mm above floor level.

The glazed door will be located beside a glazed screen and will be clearly differentiated from

the screen to make the door more prominent to make it clearly identifiable for persons with

vision impairment.

h) All door ironmongery will be suitable for operation by people with disabilities.

Careful selection of door furniture will ensure accessibility for people with impaired grip or

mobility. Door hardware that requires manual operation will be of a shape which does not

require tight grasping or twisting of the wrist.

i) Lever handles will be utilised as they are much easier to use than circular knobs. All

door hardware will contrast in colour from the background.


ii) Hardware on emergency exit doors will also be capable of easy operation for people

with impaired grip. Mechanisms which demand a lifting/pushing motion will not be

used as the direct push operation is better.

iii) Should a significant proportion of the proposed occupancy be wheelchair users,

kickplates will be provided to protect against damage to door finishes. They will

extend to the full door width and 400mm up from the door base in accordance with

Section 2.6.5.4 of Building For Everyone: A Universal Design Approach as published

by the National Disability Authority.

iv) All single axis hinges will comply with the requirements of BS EN 1935.

v) All doors within the building will be unlocked and available during normal hours. Any

mortise locks provided for security purposes will be capable of overridden internally

by push pad to satisfy Fire Safety requirements.

vi) Any push pad devices on exit doors will comply with BS EN 179: 2008 with an

operating force no greater than 150 N.

vii) Any key pads or fob / proximity cards are to be located at a height of 780mm –

1.080mm above floor level.

viii) Any fob / proximity card controlled doors will be fitted so as to be used vertically.

Proximity cards are preferable to swipe cards as they do not require contact with a

card reader.

ix) Any numeric keypads will follow the same layout as a telephone rather than a

calculator. Numerals will be 10mm high and contrast with the key. A raised pip on the

‘5’ key will be provided to assist orientation for people who are visually impaired.

i) Should the accessible entrance be provided with a self-closing device, the door will be

considered ‘heavy’ if, when it is pushed by someone using a wheelchair, it resists opening

and the person in the wheelchair moves backwards.

Where heavy doors are used, or where a self-closing device is fitted, the opening force at the

leading edge will not be more than 30N from 0° to 30° and not more than 22.5N from 30° to

60°. Delayed-action door closers assist accessibility by making continued pressure against

the door unnecessary as the person passes through.

In addition;

j) The entrance door will contrast visually with its immediate surroundings and will be well lit and

clearly signed. A mirrored finish is not used.

k) There will be a maximum threshold of 15mm provided to the entrance to prevent water

ingress. The threshold will be provided with chamfered exposed edges.

l) The entrance door will be useable by disabled people even though the door will be closed

when not in use.


2.2. Entrance Lobbies Ref. Paragraph 1.2.5; TGD-M 2010

Both entrances have lobbies. The dimensions of the entrance lobbies comply with the guidance found

in Diagram 11 of TGD-M 2010 and the following:

a) All areas of full glazing surrounding the lobby will be provided with manifestations as

recommended in 1.2.4.1 TGD-M 2010

b) The surface will not impede the movement of wheelchairs or other mobility aids

c) There will be no changes in floor materials creating a potential trip hazard

d) Any columns, ducts or similar will be provided with visually contrasted guard rails

e) The floor surface will help to remove rainwater from shoes to reduce the potential of slipping

f) The surface of any mat wells will be level with the adjacent floor.


3.0 Circulation within a Building

3.1. Reception Areas Ref. Paragraph 1.3.3.1 & 2.3.3.1; TGD-M 2010

This section does not apply as a reception area as described in TGD-M 2010 is not provided.

3.2. Internal Doors Ref. Paragraph 1.3.3.2 & 2.3.3.2; TGD-M 2010

The internal doors provided to the new accommodation are designed and will be installed so that;

a) They will provide a minimum clear opening width of not less than 800mm or 825mm where

the door is located at a right angle to a corridor or similar of 1200mm in width. In relation to

any double doors, at least one leaf will provide a minimum clear opening width of at least

800mm or 825mm.

b) There will be a 300mm unobstructed space next to the leading edge of the single leaf doors.

The requirement for an unobstructed space of at least 300mm next to the leading edge of the

doors will not apply to double leaf doors.

c) Door handles will be located at a height between 800mm and 1050mm (900mm preferred)

above FFL.

The grip zone of the pull handles will be located between 700mm and 1000mm above finish

floor level. The top end of the pull handle will be located minimum 1,300mm above floor level.

a) All new doors where privacy is not required in the room will be provided with a vision panel

located between 0.5m and 1.5m above finished floor level and will be designed as in

accordance with Diagram 10 of TGD-M 2010.

d) Any fully glazed or see-through doors or partitions will be provided with permanent markings

at 900mm and 1500mm above floor level, so as to indicate their presence visually.

e) All door ironmongery will be suitable for operation by people with disabilities, as per the

recommendations outlined within section 2.1 overleaf.

f) All door opening furniture will contrast with the surface of the door and the door itself will

contrast visually with the surrounding wall. The surface of the leading edge will contrast

visually with the other door surfaces and its surroundings.

g) All doors fitted with self-closing devices will be suitable for operation by people with

disabilities as per the recommendations outlined within section 2.1 overleaf.

3.3. Corridors and Passageways Ref. Paragraph 1.3.3.3 & 2.3.3.3; TGD-M 2010

All new corridors providing access to the new accommodation provide a clear unobstructed width of

1.2m and a clear height of at least 2.1m and will comply with the recommendations of Diagram 12 of

TGD-M 2010

A small corridor section in the basement have a width of less than 1200mm (1075mm provided) due

to space restrictions; The basement area is restricted as it will be constructed in situ on the restricted

existing site. As the complaint staircase takes most of the area width the reduced corridor width has to

be provided. This is considered acceptable width reference to 2.3.3.3 TGD-M 2010 as the corridor will

be wider than 1000mm. No element such as columns, and radiators will project into this corridor.


a) Turning circles of 1800mm diameter will be provided in the corridors in the intersections. Furthermore a second 1800mm turning circle will be provided in the corridor end in the basement. On the ground floor the open library can also be used as a passing place. Due to the small size of the premises this is considered acceptable.

b) The floor of the corridors will be level

c) No door will project into the corridor space.

The door of the small electrical rooms in the basement will open into the corridor but this is acceptable as the rooms can be taken as a minor utility facilities rooms and are usually kept closed.

d) The wider leafs of any series of double door on the corridor s will be located on the same side.

e) The floor surfaces will be slip resistant

f) Any full height glazed screens along the corridors will be provided with permanent markings at two levels, 850mm to 1000mm and 1400mm and 1600mm above floor level, so as to indicate their presence visually, and contrasting with the background seen through the glass in all lighting conditions.

g) Where the stairway crosses the circulation route clearly marked guarding will be provided to areas with less than 2.1m head room.

h) All areas which are not receiving daylight will be lighted with artificial light achieving an illuminance at floor level of at least 100 lux.

3.4. Internal Lobbies Ref. Paragraph 1.3.3.4; TGD-M 2010

The dimensions of all internal lobbies comply with the recommendations for entrance lobbies set in

1.2.5 TGD-M 2010 and of Diagram 11 of TGD-M 2010.

3.5. Passenger Lift Ref. Paragraph 1.3.4.2 & 2.3.4.2; TGD-M 2010

A new traditional passenger lift will be provided to serve the all floors. The lift is;

a) Conforming with I.S. EN 81-1; I.S. EN 81-2 and I.S. EN 81-70

b) Approached by an accessible horizontal circulation route in accordance with Section 1.3 TGD-M 2010. The route will be provided with signs to facilitate finding the lift.

c) Lift landing and car doors will contrast visually to the surrounding surfaces.

d) Due to space limitation in the existing small building it is not practicable to provide an unobstructed manoeuvring space of at least 1.8m x 1.8m in front of the lift entrance doors. In accordance with 2.3.4.2 TGD-M 2010 the unobstructed manoeuvring space will be 1.5m x 1.5m. Furthermore as the lift is arranged as a drive through, no user need to reverse out of the lift.

e) The lift doors will be power operated sliding doors and will provide a clear opening width of at least 800mm.

f) The lift car will contain internal dimensions of 1.1m wide and 1.4m deep or greater.

g) The controls in the lift car and the call buttons at each landing are between 0.9m and 1.2m above the car and landing floor levels. The controls are located in the corners and are at least 500mm from any wall.

h) Tactile surfaces to indicate the floor numbers are provided to the lift buttons and on the landings. And all call and control buttons will contrast visually with the surrounding surface.

i) Visual and voice indication of each floor reached is provided.

j) The lift doors will stay open for at least eight seconds.


k) The floor of the lift shaft will not be of a dark colour and fill be slip resistant

l) A half mirror will not be provided as the lift will be a drive through arrangement.

m) Handrails of contrasting colour will be provided at 900mm height on minimum 1 Wall. Any handrail will be located so that they do not obstruct the controls or the mirror and they will be terminated in such a way that reduces the risk of clothing being caught.

n) An easy to use emergency communication system will be installed.

o) The illumination in the lift cal will minimise glare, reflection, confusing shadows or pools of light.

3.6. Internal Stairs Ref. Paragraph 1.3.4.3 & 2.3.4.3; TGD-M 2010

As all levels of the existing building are served by the passenger lift and the lift is in accordance with

1.3.4 & 2.3.4 TGD-M 2010, there is no requirement for the existing stairs to be assessed for the

needs of ambulant disabled persons.

The new basement stair within the accommodation will be constructed to be a suitable for an

ambulant disabled people. The stair will;

a) There will be a clear unobstructed width of at least 1200mm provided between enclosing walls, strings or upstands to the flights and landings and 1000mm between handrails continuously installed on both sides.

b) The rise of a flight between landings will not exceed 1800mm

c) Contain a top and bottom landing with a tactile danger warning surface to give advance warning of the change in level. The tactile warning surface will extend the full width of the steps and commence 400mm back from the first step and will be 800mm deep.

d) All step nosings will provide a permanent visual contrast. The step edge markings on the thread will be 50mm deep and extend the full width of the thread.

e) The step nosings will be designed to comply with Diagram 5 of TGD-M 2010. No tapered treads or open risers will be used.

f) The length of a landing clear of any obstruction will be at least 1200mm.

g) The rise of each step will be uniform and will be between 150mm and 180mm.

h) The going of each step will be uniform and not less than 250 mm; Due to the space restrictions within the existing site and the small size of the basement it was not practicable to provide 300mm wide goings.

It should be noted that the stair will only be used as a service and escape stair and that there will be lift access provided to the basement. Therefore all people having difficulties for the 250mm goings can use the passenger lift.

i) Tapered treads and open risers will not be used.

j) The surface materials used for the stair will be chosen to be easily maintained and as slip-resistant as possible. The illuminance at treat level will be at least 100 lux

k) There will be a suitable continuous handrail provided to both sides of the stair.

In addition;

i. In the event that different materials are used for the flights and landings of a stair compared to the remainder of the building, care will be taken to ensure that their frictional characteristics are similar in order to minimize the risk of stumbling.

ii. Deep pile carpet will not be used on stair treads. The use of shiny, polished surface materials that cause glare will also be avoided.

iii. As the area beneath the stairs will be under 2100mm high, guarding will be provided to reduce the risk that people colliding with the edge of the stair soffit.


3.7. Internal Ramps Ref. Paragraph 1.3.4.4; TGD-M 2010

There are no internal graded or sloped circulation routes provided within the proposed accommodation.

3.8. Handrails Ref. Paragraph 1.1.3.6 TGD-M 2010

Continuous handrails will be provided to the internal stairs that will fully comply with the

recommendations of both Diagrams 6 & 7 from TGD-M 2010 and the following:

a) The vertical height to the top of the handrail from the pitch line of the surface will be between

900mm and 1,000mm and from the surface of the landing between 900mm and 1,100mm.

b) The handrails will be continuous across flights and landings.

c) The handrails will continue a minimum of 300mm beyond the first / last step as per the

recommendations of Diagram 6 from TGD-M 2010.

d) The background against which the handrails are seen will contrast visually and will not be

highly reflective.

e) There will be a clearance between wall and handrail of at least 50mm.

f) There will be a distance of at least 50mm between any cranked support and underside of the

handrail


4.0 Sanitary Conveniences

4.1. Number & Location of Accessible WCs Ref. Paragraph 1.4.3 & 2.4.3; TGD-M 2010

If sanitary conveniences are provided in a building, adequate provision will be made for people with

disabilities. This section applies to the proposed works as it will not contain private dwelling

accommodation.

Provision for sanitary accommodation for people with disabilities is made on the same basis as

provision is made for other users of the building, i.e. if sanitary accommodation is only provided for

staff, then provision will be made for staff with disabilities (whether or not any member of the present

staff is disabled), whereas, if sanitary accommodation is provided for customers or visitors to the

building, provision will also be made for customers or visitors with disabilities.

The number and location of WC cubicles required in a building to meet the needs of wheelchair users

and other people with disabilities will be dictated by the nature of the building, the size of the building,

the number of people who will use the building and the ease of access.

As there is more than one WC provided in the staff and public areas in the building an accessible WC

will be provided at each of the locations as clearly highlighted on the drawings.

The ground floor will be the largest floor of the building and will contain all public areas. The First and

Second floor will be used for offices and meeting rooms. There will be two wheelchair accessible WCs

provided on the ground floor, one in the public and one in the staff area. As the upper floors only

consist of a small number of offices occupied by a small number of people and the space is restricted,

only one normal user WC is provided on first and two normal user WCs on second floor (e.g. one

common and one designated to the Ambassadors Office.

As a result, the building will be provided with two unisex accessible WC’s on the ground floor

4.2. Provision of wheelchair accessible unisex WCs Ref. Paragraph 1.4.3.1 & 2.4.3; TGD-M 2010

The wheelchair user accessible unisex WC’s will provide adequate space to allow for necessary

wheelchair manoeuvre, and allow for transfer onto the WC, to allow a helper to assist in the transfer

and to have facilities for hand washing within reach of the WC.

a) The accessible WC facilities provided for wheelchair users comply with Diagram 15b and Diagram 16 & 17 from TGD-M overleaf based on a 1500mm turning circle. They will also be provided with an alarm that can be activated by the user in the event of emergency (see section 4.6 overleaf).

b) The minimum effective door width will be 800mm to comply with Table 2 TGD-M 2010


Diagram 15a TGD-M 2010; WC Facilities Required By Wheelchair User


Diagram 16 TGD-M 2010; WC Facilities Required By Wheelchair User

Diagram 17 TGD-M 2010; WC Facilities Required By Wheelchair User


4.3. Provisions for WC Cubicles Ref. Paragraph 1.4.3.2; TGD-M 2010

There are no washrooms with WC cubicles present in the building. Therefore the requirements for this

section will not apply.

Section 1.4.3.2 TGDM 2010 recommends “Where WC cubicles are provided in a washroom, at least one WC cubicle should be provided for ambulant disabled people amongst the standard cubicles in each washroom” There are no washrooms provided in the building and therefore in accordance with Section 1.4.3.2 ambulant accessible cubicles are not required in the building.

4.4. Provisions for Urinals Ref. Paragraph 1.4.3.3; TGD-M 2010

There are no washrooms with urinals present in the building. Therefore the requirements for this

section will not apply.

4.5. Provisions for accessible Bathrooms/Shower rooms Ref. Paragraph 1.4.3.4; TGD-M 2010

There are no Bathrooms or shower rooms provided in the building

4.6. Accessible WC Cubicles Alarm & Features Ref. Paragraph 1.4.4; TGD-M 2010 & 12.2 BS 8300: 2009+A1:2010

In general all accessible sanitary facilities will comply with the following:

a) They will be clearly identifiable using signage and they will be sited in prominent locations

b) The washing basin will be equipped with an automatic tab or will be capable to use with a closed fist

c) The doors to the accessible sanitary facilities will comply with the recommendations of 1.3.3.2 of TGD-M 2010, will be fitted with light action privacy bolts to make people with dexterity able to open and close them.

d) All outward opening sanitary doors will be fitted with an horizontal pull rail.

e) The accessible WC’s are to be provided with an emergency assistance alarm system in accordance with Paragraph 12.2 BS 8300: 2009+A1: 2010 that can be activated by the user in the event of emergency. It is proposed that the emergency assistance alarm system will be one which activates a light and sound outside the toilet area to attract the attention of passers-by.

i. The emergency assistance alarm indicator outside the wheelchair accessible WC’s & en- suites will be located so that it is easily seen and heard by people able to give assistance and indicates where help is required. It will include a reset control reachable from a wheelchair and the WC in case a false alarm is raised.

ii. The emergency assistance pull cord will be coloured red, with two red bangles of 50mm diameter, one set at a height between 800mm – 1000 mm and the other set at 100mm above floor level and will also be reachable from the WC. A reset control will also be provided for use if the alarm is activated by mistake. The alarm reset control is to be positioned on the wall adjacent to the WC, clearly marked as such, will be reachable from a wheelchair and WC and will also be easy to operate and located with its bottom edge between 800mm and 1000mm above floor level.

iii. The door to the WC will be capable of being opened in an emergency if a person inside has fallen against it and is unable to move. The door will be fitted with a privacy lock that will have an emergency release openable from the outside. The WC will be


provided with a means of indicating whether it is in use or not. The signage will provide the words “vacant” or “occupied” clearly visible and with a change in the colour of the indicator.

f) To assist blind and partially sighted people, key objects within sanitary accommodation will be identified, support rails and grab rails will contrast visually with the wall, the WC seat and cover will contrast visually with the WC pan and cistern, and sanitary fittings and accessories will contrast visually with the background.

g) Radiators, casings and shelves within the WC will not be sited in a position that reduces the wheelchair manoeuvring space or the space needed to transfer to the WC pan. Exposed surfaces of heating equipment will either be screened to protect users of sanitary accommodation from burns, or maintained at a temperature below 43 °C.

h) It is proposed that the lighting within the accessible WC can be individually controlled within the WC and therefore a pull cord is to be provided instead of a wall switch. The pull cord end will contrast visually with the wall, but will not be red in colour to avoid clashing with the emergency assistance alarm. The light level will be between 200 and 300 lux

i) The fire alarm will emit a visual and audible signal distinguishable visually and audibly from the emergency assistant alarm.

j) The floor surfaces will be firm, level and slip resistant when wet and dry.

k) A shelf will be provided for a bag, a briefcase or other belongings and two hooks will be provided, one at a level of 1050mm and one at 1400mm above floor level.

l) The manual flush will be clearly visible and easy to use and where an automatic flush is used it will be clearly indicated.


5.0 Other Facilities

5.1. General Ref. Paragraph 1.5.7; TGD-M 2010 & 10.5 BS 8300: 2009 +A1:2010

The accommodation is designed and will be constructed as to allow for independent circulation by

people with disabilities.

There are no changes in levels provided within the proposed works During the fit-out of the

accommodation, careful attention is to be given to the selection and location of ironmongery, taps,

light switches, power points and communication facilities etc so that they can be operated by light

pressure and without undue stretching, or stooping, by wheelchair users and the ambulant disabled.

a) The design of all new ironmongery, taps, light switches, power points, communication facilities including two-way switching and other such facilities will be such that they can be operated by light pressure. They shall also be located such that they can be operated by wheelchair users and the ambulant disabled, without undue stretching or stooping.

b) All new outlets, and controls, including two-way switching, are to be positioned consistently in relation to doorways and corners within a building and in a logical sequence to suit passage through the building. Where practical, light switches will align horizontally with door handles for ease of location when entering a room.

c) All new switches and controls that require precise hand movement/dexterity, e.g. for heating installations, ventilation etc., will be positioned at a height between 750mm to 1200mm from the floor so that wheelchair users and those standing can operate them. The maximum height of simple push button controls, including isolator switches and circuit breakers, that require limited dexterity will be 1200mm.

d) All new electrical wall socket outlets, telephone points and TV sockets will be located at least 400mm, but not more than 1200 mm above the floor. Socket outlets whose plugs are likely to be removed and replaced frequently are to be located at of 1000mm above the floor.

e) All new switches for permanently wired appliances (e.g. fused spurs or reset switches for alarm calls) are to be mounted within the range between 750mm and 1200mm above the floor. Meters will be mounted between 1200mm and 1400mm from the floor so that the readings can be viewed by a person standing or sitting.

f) All new emergency “break glass” panels and door releases will be mounted between 1000mm and 1200mm from the floor. Outlets, switches and controls will be positioned at least 350mm from room corners. Pull cords for emergency alarm will be located as close to wall as possible and have 2 red 50mm bangles one set at 100mm and the other set between 800mm and 1000mm above floor.

g) All new door hardware, both internal and external and all existing external hazards will contrast in colour from the background. This will also apply to the fixtures to the accessible WC cubicles, hand-dryers and communication aids, switches, controls and turnstiles and sockets etc throughout the building. Door handles will be located 800mm to 1050mm above floor level (900mm preferred)

h) All new light switches for use by the general public will have large push pads aligned horizontally with door handles within a range 900mm to 1200mm.

i) All new floor finishes will have a firm surface which is suitable for wheelchair traffic and for persons with impairment to mobility. Where carpets are provided, the pile will not exceed 12mm. All floor finishes will provide an adequate level of slip resistance in accordance with Annex E of BS8300:2009.

j) All new entrance thresholds will not exceed 15mm and all edges will be chamfered. Loose mats will be avoided as they are notorious for curling at the edges, not lying completely flat


and sliding around on certain floor surfaces. Visually impaired people will trip on them if this is the case and others will fall over if the mat slips from underneath them.

k) The durability of all new floor coverings will be considered in light of the volume of traffic the area is likely to receive. Fraying edges, loose tiles or boards and poor quality mats will cause tripping and slipping. Floors will be maintained in a safe condition and will be easily and quickly cleaned in the event of a spillage.

Diagram 30 TGD-M 2010; Height to the Centre of Socket-outlets, Switches & Controls

5.2. Refreshment facilities Ref. Paragraph 1.5.5; TGD-M 2010

There will be no tea kitchen, bar or service counter provided in the premises.

5.3. Accessible Sleeping Accommodation Ref. Paragraph 1.5.6; TGD-M 2010

This section is not applicable to the proposed accommodation.

5.4. Audience and Spectator Facilities Ref. Paragraph 1.5.3; TGD-M 2010

This section is not applicable to the proposed accommodation.


6.0 Aids to Communication

6.1. General Ref. Paragraph 1.6.2; TGD-M 2010 & Annex B; BS 8300: 2009+ A1:2010

Access to all new areas in the accommodation is to be configured so that access to all people with

impairments, including those with sensory impairments and learning difficulties will be provided.

Multi-sensory design is crucial to people with impaired hearing, vision or mobility and in relation to

people with good vision, differences in hue (the nature of the colour) or chroma (the intensity of the

colour) provide adequate visual contrast. This is not the case for all blind and partially sighted people

and the main feature of a surface, which appears to be strongly correlated with the ability of blind and

partially sighted people to identify differences in colour, is the amount of light the surface reflects, or

its light reflectance value (LRV).

The LRV scale runs from 0, which is a perfectly absorbing surface that could be assumed to be totally

black, up to 100, which is a perfectly reflective surface that could be considered to be the perfect

white. Because of practical influences in any application, black is always greater than 0 and white

never equals 100.

a) In the case of new door opening furniture, the ease with which blind and partially sighted

people are able to distinguish furniture against its background is influenced by its 3-D form

(giving light and shade) and the shiny nature of the finish, whether metallic or non-metallic.

For such products, it is considered that a difference in light reflectance values between the

product and its background will be least 15 points to comply with the recommendations of

Appendix B of BS 8300: 2009 +A1: 2010; Design of buildings and their approaches to meet

the needs of disabled people – Code of practice.

b) All new ceiling, wall and floor materials will contribute to an acoustic environment that helps

orientation and enables audible information to be clearly heard. The recommendations for

acoustic design given in BS 8233 will be followed where practicable in order to choose an

appropriate acoustic absorbency for each surface.

c) Very shiny floor, door and walls finishes will be avoided in the new areas due to problems with

glare and the fact that they are perceived as being slippery even when they have a slip-

resistant surface.

d) Floor patterning that might be mistaken for steps (e.g. strips etc) will not be used for floors in

the new areas. Large, repeating patterns that incorporate bold contrasting colours or simulate

steps will not be used for any floor surface.

e) Floor surfaces will offer a level of slip resistance that provides a firm foothold and good wheel

grip under normal conditions of use. Adjacent floor surfaces in the new areas will have similar

levels of slip resistance.

f) The leading edge of any door in the new areas that is likely to be held open will be contrast

visually with the remaining surfaces of the door and its surroundings to help identification by

blind and partially sighted people. The architrave, or frame where no architrave is present, will

contrast visually with the wall surfaces surrounding the doorway.


6.2. Signage and Way Finding Ref. Paragraph 1.6.3; TGD-M 2010 & Paragraph 9.2; BS 8300: 2009+ A1:2010

People will be provided with clear information about the purpose and layout of spaces to maintain a

clear sense of direction and independent use of a building. Signs can indicate direction, alert to

hazards or provide information. They can direct to the best and shortest route to a particular part of an

environment or building and, on long routes, should also provide confirmation of direction.

Information will take the form of visual information (e.g. signs, notice boards), audible information (e.g.

induction loops or infrared based systems), and tactile information (e.g. signs with embossed

lettering).

All new signs will be easily identifiable, clearly legible, distinguishable from their background and

consistent in their design. Legibility is helped by using a combination of upper and lower case

lettering. Signs with pictorial symbols are easier to understand, especially for people who cannot read

or speak English.

All new information and direction signs are to be located in prominent locations on the access routes

in the overall building. The colour, design and typeface of signs will be consistent throughout. All key

location information (such as sign directories, orientation signs, maps and plans) will be both visual

and in tactile form where they are low enough to be touched.

Externally clear signage will be provided from the site boundary to the main entrance of the building

applied for in this report.

Glossy or reflective surfaces can cause glare and confusion. All new sign material and lighting will be

selected so as not to cause mirroring or dazzling. The signs will be lit directly or from within, but will be

positioned to avoid reflections from daylight and artificial lighting. All signs, whether temporary or

permanent, will incorporate large letters and conventional symbols which contrast with their

background.

All new directional signs will be placed only on fixed parts of the building such as walls, posts and

floors. Signs to facilities for disabled people will also incorporate the International Symbol for Access

(Diagram 17 from BS 8300 2009 +A1: 2010).

All new fixed mounted signage will contain raised lettering, so that people with impaired vision can

read them by touch. Sign surfaces will be smooth, with rounded edges. Directional signs will indicate

the route to a destination, paying particular attention to potential points of uncertainty. They will

provide a clear indication of return routes to named exits.

The new visual signs will comprise of simple words, clearly separated from one another, in short

sentences as they are easy to understand and remember. Good information design will involve

producing signs which will be easily understood, keeping distraction to a minimum. ‘Visual Noise’ will

be avoided by using as few colours, point-sizes and fonts as possible. Plain fonts – such as Gill Sans,

Helvetica, etc.

The dimensions of new safety signs and text will comply with BS 5499-5 in that text that is too small

will not be used. Letters such as the ‘a’, ‘o’ and ‘x’ will be no smaller than 2mm from top to base (a

measurement known as the x height). All fonts with a point-size of 12 or greater will be used. Larger

text is not necessarily clearer.

Well-spaced small text is generally more readable than badly spaced large text. Lines of text too close

together can be difficult to follow. The leading measurement to the signage text will be at least 3

points greater than the text size; e.g. 12 point text will have 15 point leading. The text will be


unjustified in order to avoid large, distracting spaces between words. In addition words entirely in

upper case type will not be used.

The international symbol of access will be provided where relevant, at entrances, routes, sanitary etc

A typical example of the signage to be provided will be as follows;

INTERNATIONAL SIGN OF ACCESS

LIFT ACCESSIBLE TO WHEELCHAIR USERS

ACCESS FOR PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS

EQUIPMENT TO ENHANCE MICROPHONE SOUND FOR WHOSE

HEARING AID IS FITTED WITH A “T” SWITCH

EQUPMENT TO ENHANCEMICROPHONE SOUND THROUGH AN

INFRARED RECEIVER

FACILITIES FOR BLIND AND PARTIALLY SIGHTED PEOPLE


6.3. Lighting Ref. 1.6.5; TGD-M 2010 & Paragraph 4.5; Building For Everyone

Artificial lighting will highlight the entrance to the building and make it more obvious at night-time for

everyone, but especially for those with impaired vision. There will be external lighting at the approach

to a building and it will clearly define the entrance. Glare is to be reduced by concealing the light

fittings so that only the light, and not the light source, is visible. The external artificial lighting will be

balanced with the internal lightings to that people experience a gradual change on entering or exiting

the building.

The colour temperature of artificial lighting will match daylight as far practicable. The true reproduction

of colour will assist people with impaired vision.

The configuration of the artificial lighting will be designed to give good colour rendering of all surfaces,

whilst also avoiding excessive shadows or reflections on walls and floors. Furthermore position of all

light sources will be configured so that the lighting is evenly distributed through all rooms. To facility

the throwing of natural light deeper into a room, it is proposed that walls adjacent to natural sources

will be pale coloured, as dark surfaces adjacent to bright light sources can cause glare and eye

fatigue.

Finally, too much light can cause discomfort, while too little will be inadequate. The artificial lighting

within the building will be flexible and can be adjusted by means of dimmer switches and blinds or

louvers over natural light windows. The artificial lighting to be provided to the areas that receive no

daylight will achieve a luminance at floor level of at least 100 lux.

6.4. Audible Aids Ref. 1.6.6; TGD-M 2010 & 9.3; BS 8300: 2009 +A1: 2010

People who are deaf and hard of hearing will benefit from an audible communication system in those

parts of the building where they are not able to lip read or where distance or acoustics prevents

speech being understood. Such systems can be designed to enhance the sound through the user’s

hearing aid or by the use of separate headsets.

Due to the size of the premises and the use as an embassy it will not be practicable to provide an

audible aid system. However if any staff would require audible aids systems such as induction loops

or infrared systems will be installed.

It is proposed that portable induction loop systems will be provided in the public area for the case that

a user of the building requires hearing aid.


Legal

This report and/or its contents, information and its design principles are the exclusive property of Pro-

Fire & Design Ltd and are not to be reproduced in any means or to be used for any other project

without written agreement of Pro-Fire & Design Ltd.

All rights reserved by the law of copyright are reserved by Pro-Fire & Design Ltd and may be

protected by court proceedings for damages and/or injunctions and costs.

The contents of this Compliance Report represent a specification for compliance with Part M (Access

& Use) of the Second Schedule to Building Regulations 1997 – 2014. This Compliance Report does

not infer that Pro-Fire & Design Ltd are responsible for carrying out, monitoring or supervising the

associated building works. Neither are Pro-Fire & Design responsible for the Design or Certification of

any of any Access & Use relevant equipment detailed within, unless otherwise stated

project name: embassy of india 69 merrion road...

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