In a world where equality and access for all are crucial regardless of whether someone has a disability, understanding disability regulations such as the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) is essential.

So, what is DDA? DDA stands for Disability Discrimination Act which regulates compliance of public spaces, buildings, and structures in relation to accessibility for people with physical disabilities. Although this Act was replaced in 2010 by the Equality Act 2010, many people still refer to DDA! Both the DDA and The Equality Act are legal requirements to ensure that all facilities, walkways, steps are accessible by those with disabilities.

In relation to floor safety, the installations that need to be compliant include walkways, ramp, stairs, and other structural elements to guarantee accessibility and safety for all. Think accident prevention, simple changes can make a huge difference.

• It is important that elements like stairs and ramps stand out. The use of contrasting colours is important for the visually impaired. For example, incorporating nosing covers or stair treads with a different coloured edging will create a visual clue to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
• When installing ramps, they should ideally be 1200mm in width to ensure wheelchair accessibility. Using a gritted surface to enhance grip is essential to avoid slips, trips, and falls. Consider the height and angle of the ramp; properly designed ramps with appropriate height and angle can reduce the effort required for wheelchair users to navigate them, prevent accidents through loss of control, and provide a more comfortable experience.
• For stairs, using a gritted covering on the steps will quickly and easily enhance safety. Think about the footfall and decide whether nosing, treads or both would be suitable for your installation. Read our article here explaining the differences between nosings and stair treads.
• With walkways, again consider factors like footfall and the surrounding environment. There are a range of walkway solutions available, from GRP flat sheets providing an even and flat anti-slip surface to open top rubber matting or spaghetti-type matting. These solutions not only mould to the floor but also offer the added advantage of natural drainage and dirt capture.

Ensuring DDA compliance means prioritising and ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities in all your installations.

With any project or installation, we advise conducting a flooring risk assessment to ensure the safety and access for everyone.

We’re only a phone call away if you need further advice or support.