What are access ramps used for?

Access ramps give wheelchair users, mobility scooter users and people with limited mobility a safe, step-free route into and around buildings. They remove the barrier of steps and kerbs at entrances, and suit schools, healthcare sites, local authority buildings, shops, offices and modular buildings.

Do public buildings need access ramps?

Under the Equality Act 2010, organisations that provide services to the public must make reasonable adjustments for disabled people. For many public buildings, a compliant ramp is one of the most practical ways to do this where steps would otherwise limit access. Approved Document M and BS 8300-2:2018 give the technical guidance.

What gradient should access ramps have?

As a basic UK guideline, public access ramps are designed to a gradient of 1:15, while ramps serving dwellings can be as steep as 1:12. The shallower the slope, the easier the access. This is a simplified guide, as requirements vary with the length of the ramp between landings.

How wide should an access ramp be?

In the UK, 1200mm is a general guide for ramp width, and the same clearance applies on landings, clear of any door swing paths. Our steel ramp system is available in 1200mm and 1500mm widths, and our modular aluminium ramps are 1219mm wide.

Do access ramps need level landings?

Yes. A flat landing is needed wherever a ramp changes direction. On a 1:15 slope, a landing should also be provided every 5m. Level landings give users a safe place to rest, turn and manoeuvre.

What handrails do access ramps need?

Handrails should be smooth, continuous and not cold to the touch, so they are comfortable to grip. Where guardrails are required, they should be a minimum of 1100mm high. Our modular aluminium ramps use a warm to touch handrail tube with a powder coated steel balustrade.

What surface is best for access ramps?

A slip-resistant surface with good drainage is essential, particularly outdoors. Our ramps use a fibreglass mesh walkway with exceptional slip resistance. On the steel system, the surface also has integrated grit and drainage holes, which helps prevent water and ice building up.

Are modular access ramps temporary or permanent?

Both are possible. Modular access ramps can be temporary or semi-permanent and can be added to or reconfigured into different layouts, such as straight, L-shaped, T-shaped and return ramps, or ramps with steps and platforms. Our galvanised steel ramp system suits more permanent installations.

How quickly can access ramps be installed?

A simple ramp can be fitted within a day. More complex commercial structures can take up to a week. Our modular aluminium ramps can be installed, changed or removed in less than a day using just a bolt driver.

Do access ramps need groundworks?

Not usually. In most cases, our modular ramps stand on their own feet, with no expensive groundworks required. The legs can be adjusted individually for uneven ground, and enlarged feet or slabs can be used where the ground is soft.

How do steel access ramps compare with timber and concrete?

Steel ramps built with Kee Klamp fittings offer good surface drainage, low maintenance and easy modification or repair. Timber is quick to fit but drains poorly and needs more upkeep, while concrete is harder to modify and more costly to repair.

How much maintenance do access ramps need?

Galvanised steel access ramps need much less maintenance than timber or concrete structures. The galvanised coating protects against rust, and the drainage holes in the surface help keep it clear. Ramps should still be inspected regularly to keep them safe and compliant.

Public Access Ramps

Introducing Public Access Ramps: Unlocking Inclusive and Compliant Access in Scotland

We understand the importance of safe and reliable access, which is why we proudly offer the innovative Modular Public Ramps system designed by PARs. Our Public Access ramp provides you with a superior solution for creating accessible pathways and ensuring compliance with accessibility regulations.

Our public access and modular building ramps are fully DDA compliant and meet all UK accessibility standards. Constructed from durable, high-quality materials, these wheelchair access ramps are designed for long-term reliability and quick installation – making them ideal for schools, commercial properties, healthcare facilities, and temporary modular buildings.

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Accessibility Made Easy with Public Access Ramps

The Modular Public Access Ramps are cutting-edge solution designed to provide easy and inclusive access. This ramp system offers a range of benefits that make it a preferred choice for businesses and organisations striving to create accessible environments.

Be compliant

Bring your accessibility into line without construction headaches with DDA Public Access Ramps by APS.

Effortless Compliance

Compliance with this modular access ramp is straightforward and easy to attain. With quick installation and availability, compliance can be achieved quickly.

Easy Maintenance

All metal components are galvanised, stainless, or aluminium for longevity, and holes in the treads shed snow and ice for safe access all year round.

Features of the Public Access Ramp

DDA Compliance

Our Modular Access Ramps meet local, national, and international accessibility standards. Compliant handrails, widths, and slopes are built-in features, ensuring regulatory compliance.

Modular Solution

Our Public Access Ramps are built with modular sections that allow for easy design and installation.

Quality Components

Our Public Access Ramps are individually manufactured to the highest quality and offer the safest mobility access for wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, and other mobility aids. These ramps make public spaces accessible to everyone and help meet legal access requirements.

Ramps Built for Accessibility and DDA Compliance

Here's what you should consider when buying a public access ramp.

It's important to provide the right slope

DDA recommends a maximum slope of 1:12 (8.33%) for public access ramps, ensuring gradual and safe access for individuals with mobility challenges.

20220614 AQ5I0047 3 RT Medium You must provide the proper clearance for navigation

Navigation clearance must be provided

In the UK, a widely accepted standard is to have a 36-inch width for ramps, including the available space on a landing clear of door swing paths.

For long distances and direction changes, you must provide a flat landing

When public access ramps change direction, a flat landing must be provided every 15 feet. Additionally, a 1:15 slope requires a landing every 15 feet.

Ramps must be equipped with proper grab rails and guardrails.

In addition to smooth and continuous grabrails, where required, guardrails should have a minimum height of 42 inches.

The details are what make Modular Access Ramps stand out

Kee Klamp fittings

Modular Access Ramps use tried and tested Kee Klamp fittings for construction

Handrail

Smooth and continuous handrails can be powder coated for added comfort and aesthetic appeal

Vertical bar infill panels

Anti-climb, galvanised premium infill panel can be added to any ramp

Anti-slip walkway

Fiberglass mini mesh makes the ramp suitable for all weather conditions

Toeboard

Edge guard that guides the user around the access route

Load bearing feet

Adjustable on-site to accommodate most ground conditions

Modular Access Ramps meets the highest standards for disability access

Meets DDA compliance requirements of Building Regulations, Part M
BS EN 1562 compliant
Made of galvanized cast iron to BS EN ISO 1461 standards
The galvanized Kee Klamp pipe fittings are made according to BS 729 (ISO 1461) and ASTM A153 standards and last for over 30 years.

BS EN 10255 (ISO 65) steel tubes
The components are TÜV-certified for quality manufacturing, strength and consistency.
Inspection procedure that meets ISO 9001 standards

Frequently Asked Questions

What are public access ramps used for?

Public access ramps are designed to provide safe, compliant entry to public buildings, institutions, and public spaces for disabled people, wheelchair users, and individuals with limited mobility. They help enhance safety, ensure legal compliance, and support reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act.

Are modular access ramps suitable for healthcare facilities and schools?

Yes. Modular access ramps are widely used in healthcare facilities, schools, and local authority buildings. Their flexible ramp system design allows for easy configuration, fast installation, and minimal disruption — making them ideal for environments that must stay operational during accessibility upgrades.

What materials are used in your public access ramps?

Our public access ramps are made from galvanised steel and feature optional powder coated handrails. These UK manufactured components are built to the highest standards, offering long-term durability, weather resistance, and added security for users.

How long does installation take for a wheelchair ramp system?

Installation time varies depending on the project length, site configuration, and complexity of the access solution. Simple access ramps for residential or single-entry public buildings can be installed in under a day, while larger or multi-level installations may take several days. APS provides clear guidance and timelines during the design phase.

Can access ramps be tailored to suit unique needs and environments?

Yes. Every APS ramp system is tailored to suit the unique needs of the site and its users. We work with clients to address specific accessibility requirements, including slope, landing size, and optional features like continuous handrails, vertical bar infill panels, and anti-slip surfaces. Whether for temporary use or permanent disability access, we ensure the solution fits the environment.

Are safety checks or maintenance required after installation?

APS access ramps are built for low maintenance, but periodic safety checks are recommended to ensure continued compliance with building regulations. Our team can advise on maintenance schedules and provide supporting documentation to help public institutions manage their responsibilities with confidence.