Wheelchair Ramp Gradients and Regulations UK: A Practical Guide to Document M

Getting the gradient right is the single most important decision when specifying a wheelchair or access ramp. Too steep and the ramp is unsafe and non-compliant; too long and it may not fit the space available. This guide explains the ramp gradient rules in Approved Document M, how to work out the length you need, and how to choose the right ramp for your site.

What ramp gradient means

Gradient is the steepness of the slope, written as a ratio such as 1:12. A 1:12 gradient means the ramp rises 1 unit for every 12 units of horizontal length, so a 150mm rise needs at least 1,800mm of ramp. The gentler the gradient, the easier and safer the ramp is for wheelchair users, mobility scooters and anyone less steady on their feet.

Ramp gradient rules in Approved Document M

Approved Document M (Access to and use of buildings) sets the gradient limits for ramps in buildings other than dwellings. The steepest permitted gradient is 1:12, and that is only allowed for short flights. As the flight gets longer, a gentler gradient is required. The figures below come from Table 1 of Approved Document M, Volume 2.

In short: use 1:12 only for the shortest rises, ease to 1:15 over a medium run, and aim for 1:20 wherever you have the space. A gentler gradient is always the safer choice.

Landings, width and other requirements

• Provide a level landing at the top and bottom of every ramp, and between flights, at least 1,500mm long and clear of any door swing.
• The ramp surface should be at least 1,500mm wide.
• No single flight should have a going of more than 10m or a rise of more than 500mm, whichever is reached first.
• Where the total rise is more than 2m, a ramp alone is not considered suitable and a stepped alternative or lift should also be provided.
• Use a slip-resistant surface that visually contrasts with the surroundings so the ramp is easy to see.

Choosing the right access ramp

Once you know the rise you need to overcome and the space you have, you can choose the ramp type. Our access ramps fall into two main groups:

• Aluminium ramps are lightweight, portable and foldable, which makes them ideal for thresholds, single steps and temporary or occasional access.
• GRP ramps give a permanent, corrosion-resistant surface with a gritted anti-slip finish, which suits wet areas and higher-traffic sites.

If you are not sure which length or type suits your site, call our team on 01480 570001 or email info@safetyproductsdirect.co.uk and we will help you specify the right ramp.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum gradient for a wheelchair ramp in the UK?

Under Approved Document M, the steepest permitted gradient is 1:12, and only for flights with a going of up to 2m. Longer flights need a gentler gradient, down to 1:20 for a 10m going.

What gradient is best for a wheelchair ramp?

Wherever space allows, 1:20 is the most comfortable and inclusive gradient. Steeper ramps up to 1:12 are acceptable for short rises but are harder to use unaided.

How long does a ramp need to be?

Multiply the rise by the gradient ratio. For example, a 200mm rise at 1:15 needs 3,000mm of ramp, plus level landings at each end.

This guide summarises Approved Document M (England) for general information. Regulations change and differ in Scotland and Wales, so always confirm the current requirements with Building Control or a suitably qualified professional for your project.