Mobility ramps are vital for creating inclusive, accessible places for everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. They’re a key part of ensuring individuals with mobility impairments can enjoy public and private spaces independently, with dignity.
Let’s look at the importance of mobility ramps and how Craftmasters Property Services can enhance your public or private space.
Promoting Equality and Inclusion
One of the biggest steps we’ve taken in society is a great commitment to equality and inclusion. Mobility ramps demonstrate that all visitors to your space are valued and considered.
Craftmasters Property Services can help you break down those physical barriers that prevent people with disabilities using a space to the fullest, with our company specialising in ramping solutions for councils, businesses and private homes. You might want to check out our case studies to see how we can help.
A well-designed space can encourage a sense of belonging and empower individuals to engage in everyday activities. It makes it easier to do everything from accessing shops and using public transport, to visiting friends and family without facing unnecessary obstacles.
Enhancing Accessibility and Independence
Our mobility ramps are great for promoting independence for people with a wide range of mobility impairments. This includes wheelchair users, individuals with limited mobility, those using walking aids, and people with visual impairments who might find steps difficult to navigate.
A safe and manageable alternative to stairs, they allow people to move freely and independently at a range of sites. When installed in a private home, they can have a profound impact on someone’s quality of life, making it easier for them to enjoy life to the fullest.
The Legal Side of Matters
In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 places a legal obligation on service providers and those responsible for public spaces to make reasonable adjustments to ensure accessibility for disabled people. This includes the provision of ramps where necessary to overcome barriers posed by steps or changes in level.
Similarly, the Building Regulations Approved Document M outlines specific requirements for ramp design and construction in new buildings and renovations. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal requirement but also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.
Benefits for a Wider Population
Although primarily designed for people with mobility impairments, ramps can benefit a wide range of people. From busy parents with pushchairs to those making deliveries, or people with temporary injuries, and the elderly all benefit from the ease of access that ramps provide.
They ensure that spaces are usable and accessible for everyone, regardless of their age or physical condition.
Economic and Social Benefits
Investing in accessible infrastructure, such as mobility ramps, can have significant economic and social benefits.
By removing barriers that stop people enjoying a space, ramps enable people with disabilities to fully contribute to the workforce. They can even boost productivity and economic growth. Moreover, accessible communities attract tourists and businesses, encouraging economic development and creating a more vibrant and inclusive society.
Types of Mobility Ramps and Their Applications
We offer various different types of mobility ramps, each designed to suit specific needs and environments, including:
● Bespoke Ramping Systems. Tailor-made to your requirements, these can fit most spaces and be constructed from various materials.
● Modular Ramping. Made using sturdy aluminium frames and non-slip fibreglass grating surfaces, these offer a durable and strong access solution that can accommodate nearly any layout.
● Timber-framed Ramping. These combine a durable, non-slip fibreglass surface with pressure-treated timber frames, providing a robust and versatile alternative to traditional aluminium.
● Threshold Ramps which are simple, lightweight and eliminate height differences through a doorway.
● Block-Paved Ramping that can enhance the look of your home and at the same time create independent access. For those that are finding it increasingly harder to negotiate those steps around the home, raising the patio or driveway to alleviate this problem could be a practical solution.
Design and Safety Considerations
We specialise in effective ramp designs that are highly safe and easy to use. Key considerations we cover include:
● Gradient. Ramps should have a gentle slope to allow for easy ascent and descent. The recommended gradient is 1:12, meaning that for every 12 inches of horizontal length, there should be a rise of 1 inch.
● Landing Areas. Level landing areas should be provided at the top and bottom of the ramp and at any changes in direction, allowing people to rest and manoeuvre safely.
● Handrails, which should be installed on both sides of the ramp to provide support and stability, particularly for those with balance issues.
● Surface. We can ensure the surface is non-slip and provides adequate grip in all weather conditions.
● Visibility. Ramps should be clearly marked and visible to ensure that everyone is aware of their presence and can navigate them safely.
For more on our ramps for private or public spaces, simply contact our team today.