Approved Document K Flashcards
What is Requirement K1?
K1 ensures that stairs, ladders, and ramps are designed safely to prevent falls and provide secure access.
What is the maximum rise for a single step in a flight of stairs?
220mm in dwellings; 190mm in public buildings for accessibility.
What is the minimum going depth for stairs?
220mm in dwellings; 250mm in public buildings for safer footing.
What is the maximum pitch for a stair flight?
42° for private stairs; 38° for public access stairs.
How many steps can a single stair flight have before requiring a landing?
No more than 12 steps in public buildings; up to 16 in dwellings.
What is the required headroom for staircases?
At least 2.0m measured vertically from the pitch line.
What is the minimum width for staircases in dwellings?
At least 800mm, but 900mm is recommended for better accessibility.
What is the required handrail height for stairs?
Between 900mm and 1100mm measured from the pitch line.
When are handrails required on stairs?
On at least one side for stairs with two or more risers; both sides in public buildings.
What are the requirements for stair nosings?
They must be clearly visible, slip-resistant, and have a rounded or chamfered edge.
What is the maximum gap allowed between stair balusters?
No more than 100mm to prevent small children from passing through.
What is the minimum ramp width for accessibility?
At least 1.5m for ramps in public buildings; 900mm for private dwellings.
What is the maximum gradient for a ramp?
1:12 for short ramps (up to 2m); 1:15 for longer ramps.
How long can a ramp be before requiring a landing?
No more than 10m without an intermediate landing.
What is the minimum landing length for a ramp?
At least 1.2m at the top and bottom of each ramp segment.
What is the purpose of tactile paving at stairs and ramps?
To alert visually impaired users to changes in level.
What are the slip resistance requirements for stair treads and ramps?
They must be constructed from slip-resistant materials suitable for their intended use.
What are the handrail requirements for ramps?
Handrails must be continuous, easy to grip, and positioned at a height of 900mm to 1000mm.
What are the additional stair requirements for external access?
They must be slip-resistant, have adequate drainage, and provide lighting for visibility.
What is the required contrast level for stair edges?
A minimum of 30% luminance contrast to improve visibility.
What additional requirements apply to fire escape stairs?
They must have non-slip treads, handrails on both sides, and a direct route to safety.
What is the required depth for stair nosings?
At least 55mm deep to ensure safe foot placement.
What are the landing requirements for external ramps?
They must be level, slip-resistant, and at least 1.2m in length.
What additional considerations apply to stairs in buildings used by the public?
They must accommodate high foot traffic, have clear signage, and provide handrails on both sides.
What special stair requirements apply to buildings for disabled access?
A wider tread, lower riser heights, contrasting nosings, and tactile indicators must be included.
What is Requirement K2?
K2 ensures that buildings provide adequate protection against falls from height, including openings, edges, and surfaces.
What is the minimum height for a guarding barrier on balconies, roofs, and landings?
At least 1100mm from floor level in all buildings.
What is the minimum height for guarding on internal stairs and ramps?
At least 900mm from the pitch line of stairs or ramp surface.
What is the maximum allowable gap in a guarding barrier?
No openings larger than 100mm to prevent children from passing through.
Where must guarding be provided in buildings?
At staircases, ramps, balconies, roof edges, and any area where there is a fall risk of 600mm or more.
What are the structural strength requirements for guarding barriers?
They must withstand loads in accordance with BS 6180 to prevent collapse under impact.
What is the purpose of toughened glass in guarding barriers?
To prevent injury from breakage while providing a secure barrier.
What is a fall prevention system?
A combination of physical barriers, edge protection, and non-slip surfaces designed to prevent accidental falls.
What additional requirements apply to guarding in public buildings?
Must be designed to withstand higher crowd loads and ensure visibility for safety.
What is the importance of visual contrast in guarding barriers?
It enhances visibility for people with visual impairments to identify safe areas.
What materials are commonly used for guarding barriers?
Metal railings, glass panels, timber balustrades, and reinforced concrete.
How should guarding be designed for accessibility compliance?
It must not obstruct wheelchair users or create trip hazards.
What additional fall protection measures are required in areas accessed by children?
Lower barriers, no horizontal climbing elements, and impact-resistant materials.
How do regulations address openable windows to prevent falls?
Windows with a sill height below 800mm must have restrictors to limit opening to 100mm.
What is the required height for guarding at changes in floor level?
Any difference greater than 600mm must have a protective barrier.
What are the requirements for temporary guarding during construction?
It must meet the same height and load requirements as permanent barriers.
What additional fall protection measures apply to loft conversions?
Guarding must be installed at stair openings, and roof lights must have barriers if accessible.
What is the purpose of non-climbable guarding?
To prevent children from using horizontal rails as footholds, reducing fall risks.
How does weather affect external guarding materials?
Materials must be corrosion-resistant and durable to withstand environmental exposure.
What are the regulations for protection at vehicle ramps and loading bays?
Barriers must prevent accidental falls while allowing vehicle movement.
How should glass guarding be installed safely?
Laminated or toughened safety glass must be used with adequate framing to prevent breakage.
What requirements apply to guarding around swimming pools?
Fencing must be at least 1200mm high with self-closing gates to prevent accidental entry.
What additional fall protection measures apply in high-rise buildings?
Stronger barriers, impact-resistant materials, and secure fixing methods must be used.
What are the safety considerations for guarding in historic buildings?
Guarding should balance safety with aesthetic and conservation requirements.
What maintenance considerations apply to fall protection barriers?
Regular inspections must be conducted to check for stability, damage, and compliance with regulations.
What is Requirement K3?
K3 ensures that buildings provide protection from falls at vehicle barriers, ramps, and loading bays.
Where are vehicle barriers required?
At ramps, car parks, loading bays, and areas where vehicles and pedestrians interact.
What is the minimum height for vehicle barriers in car parks?
At least 1100mm to prevent falls from elevated parking areas.
What are the structural strength requirements for vehicle barriers?
They must withstand impact forces from vehicles, complying with BS 6180.
What is the purpose of upstand kerbs in car parks?
They provide additional protection against vehicle roll-off by acting as a physical barrier.
What safety measures should be in place for pedestrian walkways in car parks?
Clearly marked routes, barriers, and designated crossings to separate vehicles and pedestrians.
What are the key safety requirements for loading bays?
Barriers, edge markings, and designated pedestrian-safe zones must be provided.
What is the recommended clearance for vehicle loading areas?
Adequate space must be maintained to allow safe vehicle movement and loading operations.
How should vehicle barriers be designed for impact resistance?
They should be constructed from reinforced concrete, steel, or heavy-duty railings.
What additional protection is required at multi-storey car parks?
Higher-strength barriers, impact-resistant materials, and clear vehicle approach markings.
How does signage contribute to vehicle safety in loading bays?
Clear signs must indicate speed limits, pedestrian zones, and height restrictions.
What considerations apply to external ramps in vehicle access areas?
Slip-resistant surfaces, drainage to prevent water accumulation, and appropriate barriers must be installed.
What is the minimum edge protection required for raised loading docks?
A 1100mm high barrier or safety gate must be installed where there is a drop-off risk.
How can lighting improve safety in vehicle access areas?
Adequate illumination ensures visibility of barriers, edges, and pedestrian areas.
What are bollards, and how do they help in vehicle barrier safety?
Bollards prevent vehicle encroachment into pedestrian areas and provide structural protection.
What is the role of tactile paving in vehicle access areas?
It helps visually impaired individuals navigate pedestrian zones safely.
What surface treatments improve traction in vehicle ramps and bays?
Non-slip coatings, grooved surfaces, and proper drainage reduce skid risks.
What are the best practices for emergency vehicle access in car parks?
Clear entry and exit routes, reinforced barriers, and designated emergency lanes should be provided.
What is the recommended gradient for vehicle ramps?
Maximum 1:12 for safe vehicle movement, with flatter slopes preferred for accessibility.
What additional safety features are required for wheelchair-accessible loading bays?
Lowered curbs, wider turning areas, and designated accessible spaces must be included.
What are the main maintenance considerations for vehicle barriers?
Regular inspections for corrosion, impact damage, and structural integrity must be conducted.
How should vehicle barriers be positioned at curved ramps?
They must follow the curve with sufficient clearance to prevent vehicle overturning.
What special considerations apply to underground car parks?
Adequate ventilation, fire-resistant barriers, and clear emergency exits are required.
What additional safety measures apply to high-traffic loading areas?
Traffic control measures such as speed bumps, separate pedestrian routes, and reinforced barriers should be used.
How can digital technology enhance vehicle barrier safety?
Sensors, automated gates, and warning signals can improve traffic management and pedestrian safety.
What is Requirement K4?
K4 ensures that glazing in buildings is designed to minimize injury risks from accidental impact.
Where must safety glazing be used?
In critical locations such as doors, side panels, and low-level windows.
What are the critical locations for impact safety glazing?
Glazing below 800mm in windows, below 1500mm in doors, and within 300mm of a door edge.
What types of safety glass are permitted in impact-prone areas?
Toughened glass, laminated glass, or robust plastic glazing.
What is toughened glass?
A type of glass that shatters into small, blunt pieces to reduce injury risk.
What is laminated glass?
A glass with an interlayer that holds the shards together upon impact.
How can non-glass materials be used for impact safety?
Acrylic or polycarbonate panels can be used as shatter-resistant alternatives.
What British Standard applies to safety glazing?
BS 6262-4 for impact-resistant glazing requirements.
How should large glass panels be marked for visibility?
With permanent markings, etched patterns, or decals to prevent accidental collisions.
What additional safety measures apply to glazing in public buildings?
Higher impact resistance, clear visibility markings, and break-safe designs.
What is the purpose of manifestation on glass doors and partitions?
To make glass visible, reducing the risk of accidental collisions.
How should glazing in stairwells be protected?
By using barriers, handrails, or impact-resistant glass.
What requirements apply to glazing in wet environments?
Non-slip finishes, toughened glass, and reinforced frames to prevent breakage.
What considerations apply to glazing in childcare facilities?
Lower height impact-resistant glass, additional guarding, and non-breakable materials where possible.
What glazing standards apply to high-rise buildings?
Increased thickness, laminated or toughened glazing, and reinforced fixings.
What is the recommended thickness for toughened glass in doors?
At least 6mm for standard doors, increasing based on size and use.
What additional requirements apply to glazing in fire escape routes?
It must be fire-resistant where necessary and must not shatter into hazardous fragments.
What is the role of glazing barriers in commercial buildings?
They provide protection in impact zones while maintaining visibility and aesthetics.
What should be considered when using glass balustrades?
Glass must be toughened or laminated, with secure fixings and handrails where required.
How can architectural glass be designed for safety?
By integrating reinforced edges, safety films, or double glazing with impact resistance.
What regulations apply to glazing in sports facilities?
High-impact resistant materials must be used to withstand accidental collisions.
What is a break-safe design for glass installations?
A design that ensures controlled fragmentation or containment upon impact.
How does building orientation affect glazing safety?
High-traffic areas require more robust glass, while sun-exposed areas may need coatings to reduce glare and heat buildup.
What maintenance checks should be conducted for safety glazing?
Regular inspections for cracks, secure fixings, and compliance with impact safety standards.
What safety glazing considerations apply to historical buildings?
Solutions must balance aesthetic preservation with modern impact resistance standards.
What is Requirement K5?
K5 ensures additional safety provisions for glazing in buildings other than dwellings to prevent impact-related injuries.
What additional glazing safety measures apply to public buildings?
Increased impact resistance, visibility markings, and controlled fragmentation on breakage.
Where must manifestation markings be used in non-dwelling buildings?
On glass doors, partitions, and full-height glazing to improve visibility and prevent collisions.
What are the minimum height requirements for manifestation markings?
Between 850mm-1000mm and 1400mm-1600mm above floor level.
What British Standard applies to glazing in non-dwelling buildings?
BS 6262-4: Safety in glazing for buildings, ensuring compliance with impact resistance requirements.
What are the glazing requirements for offices and commercial spaces?
Glazing must be impact-resistant, visible, and properly framed to prevent accidental damage.
What are the additional safety requirements for glazing in schools?
Glazing must be toughened or laminated, with protective films to minimize injury risks from breakage.
How should glazing be designed in hospitals and healthcare settings?
Laminated safety glass is preferred, with impact-resistant coatings to protect patients and staff.
What glazing standards apply to sports facilities?
Higher impact-resistant materials, reinforced fixings, and protective barriers around glass panels.
What precautions should be taken for glazing in retail spaces?
Toughened glass with reinforced framing to prevent breakage due to high foot traffic and potential impacts.
What are the safety requirements for glazing in high-traffic corridors?
Impact-resistant materials and visible manifestations to prevent accidental collisions.
What glazing requirements apply to hotels and hospitality buildings?
Balcony doors and shower enclosures must use safety glazing to protect occupants.
How does glare control impact glazing safety?
Anti-glare coatings or tinted glass can improve visibility and reduce eye strain in workspaces.
What additional glazing considerations apply to high-rise buildings?
Laminated or toughened glazing with secure fixings to withstand wind loads and accidental impacts.
What is the purpose of fire-resistant glazing?
To provide protection against fire spread while maintaining visibility and light transmission.
What are the safety requirements for glazing in automatic doors?
Impact-resistant glass with secure fixings and motion sensors to prevent accidental collisions.
How should glazing be protected in areas prone to vandalism?
Using laminated glass, anti-graffiti coatings, and reinforced frames for added durability.
What glazing requirements apply to public transport terminals?
Toughened or laminated glass with secure fixings to prevent shattering from accidental impacts.
How does acoustic glazing contribute to safety in non-dwelling buildings?
Reduces noise transmission while maintaining impact resistance for high-traffic environments.
What are the security glazing requirements for banks and financial institutions?
Laminated glass with high impact resistance and anti-ballistic properties where necessary.
What are the key considerations for glazing in childcare facilities?
Low-level glazing must be impact-resistant, with additional guarding or safety films to prevent injuries.
What are the maintenance requirements for glazing in public buildings?
Regular inspections for cracks, scratches, and secure fixings to ensure ongoing safety compliance.
How should glazing in stairwells and atriums be designed for safety?
Toughened or laminated glass with sufficient guarding to prevent accidental falls.
What are the impact safety considerations for glass floors and walkways?
Laminated structural glass with anti-slip coatings and reinforced load-bearing properties.
What glazing safety considerations apply to museums and galleries?
Reinforced glass with UV protection and security enhancements to prevent accidental or intentional damage.
What is Requirement K6?
K6 ensures that doors are designed to prevent injury from impact and trapping, especially in high-traffic areas.
What are the safety requirements for automatic doors?
They must have sensors to detect movement and prevent accidental impact.
What precautions should be taken for doors in schools and childcare facilities?
Finger guards, slow-close mechanisms, and visibility panels must be included to reduce injury risks.
What is the purpose of vision panels in doors?
To allow people to see through doors and avoid collisions in busy areas.
What is the minimum recommended height for vision panels in doors?
At least 500mm from the floor and extending to at least 1500mm high for visibility.
What are the safety requirements for revolving doors?
They must have emergency stop mechanisms and sufficient clearance to prevent trapping.
How should doors in fire escape routes be designed?
They must open in the direction of travel and be easy to operate under emergency conditions.
What are the key impact safety considerations for glazed doors?
They must be made of impact-resistant glass with clear markings to prevent collisions.
What is the recommended clearance for swing doors?
Doors must provide at least 300mm clearance beyond the leading edge to prevent trapping.
How should doors in healthcare settings be designed for safety?
Wide openings, anti-trap edges, and slow-close mechanisms should be used to protect patients.
What are the safety requirements for powered gates and barriers?
They must have safety sensors and emergency override functions to prevent injury.
What is the role of anti-trap finger guards in door safety?
They prevent fingers from being caught in hinge mechanisms, reducing injury risks.
What are the regulations for door closing speeds in public buildings?
Doors must close at a controlled speed to prevent injury from sudden impact.
What types of doors require impact protection measures?
Swing doors, automatic doors, revolving doors, and high-traffic entrance doors.
What is the purpose of door hold-open devices in commercial buildings?
To reduce impact risk and improve accessibility while ensuring fire compliance.
How can sliding doors be made safer?
Soft-close mechanisms, anti-trap edges, and safety stops should be used.
What additional safety measures apply to doors in sports facilities?
Durable materials, reinforced edges, and impact-resistant panels should be included.
What considerations apply to door handles in public buildings?
They must be at an accessible height and designed to prevent snagging or injury.
How should doors in high-wind areas be designed for safety?
Wind-resistant hinges, controlled closing mechanisms, and impact-resistant materials should be used.
What are the safety requirements for industrial roller shutter doors?
They must have automatic stop mechanisms and emergency override controls.
How should doors in hotels and hospitality buildings be designed?
Self-closing mechanisms, quiet operation, and clear signage should be implemented for safety and comfort.
What safety measures should be taken for doors in multi-occupancy buildings?
Clear signage, anti-trap edges, and controlled closing speeds should be included.
How should doors be designed for wheelchair accessibility?
They must be at least 800mm wide, with low-threshold designs and easy-to-use handles.
What is the importance of impact testing for doors in public buildings?
It ensures they can withstand repeated use and comply with safety regulations.
What regular maintenance checks should be performed on automatic doors?
Sensors, emergency stops, and door alignment should be inspected regularly to ensure safe operation.
