(2021 EDITION )

Design Manual
Barrier Free Access
2008
(2021 Edition)

First issue : December 2008

This revision : December 2021

 CONTENTS

Page
PREFACE i

Chapter 1 FOREWORD 1

Chapter 2 EXTENT OF APPLICATION

2.1 EXTENT OF APPLICATION 3
2.2 EXEMPTIONS 7

Chapter 3** PRELIMINARY 8

Chapter 4** DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Division 1 AUDITORIUM AND RELATED FACILITIES 10

Division 2 HOTELS, HOSTELS AND GUESTHOUSES 15

Division 3 CARPARKS 18

Division 4 ACCESS ROUTE 23

Division 5 RAMPS 28

Division 6 DROPPED KERBS 32

Division 7 STEPS AND STAIRCASES 37

Division 8 HANDRAILS 42

Division 9 CORRIDORS, LOBBIES AND PATHS 48

Division 10 DOORS 56

Division 11 TOILETS AND W.C. CUBICLES 62

Division 12 BATHROOMS AND SHOWER COMPARTMENTS 75

Division 13 SIGNS 80

Division 14 SPECIAL OBLIGATORY DESIGN REQUIREMENTS 86

TO ASSIST PERSONS WITH VISUAL/HEARING
IMPAIRMENT TO VARIOUS USES OF BUILDINGS
IN TABLE 2

** The numbering system in Chapters 3 and 4 corresponds as far as practicable to the Third
Schedule of Building (Planning) Regulations.
 CONTENTS

Page
Division 15 PUBLIC INFORMATION OR SERVICE COUNTERS 93

Division 16 ILLUMINATION 97

Division 17 EMERGENCY CALL BELLS IN ACCESSIBLE 99

TOILETS

Division 18 ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM 101

Division 19 LIFTS, INDICATION AND NOTIFICATION 103

Division 20 ESCALATORS AND PASSENGER CONVEYORS 115

Chapter 5 BUILDING SERVICES DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

5.1 SWITCHES AND CONTROLS 117
5.2 FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS 119
5.3 PUBLIC TELEPHONES 122
5.4 REMOTE SIGNAGE SYSTEMS 125
5.5 VERTICAL LIFTING PLATFORMS 126
5.6 DRINKING FOUNTAINS 129

Chapter 6 DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR THE ELDERLY AND 132

ELDERLY WITH FRAILTY

APPENDICES

Appendix A – Anthropometrics A/1-A/5

Appendix B – Guidelines for Wheelchair Transfer and Movement B/1-B/5
Appendix C – Slip Resistance of Flooring Materials C/1
Appendix D – Luminous Contrast D/1-D/3
 CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES

Page
Figure 1A - Wheelchair Space in an Auditorium 11
Figure 1B - Example of Wheelchair Spaces in a Lecture Hall 13
Figure 2 - Typical Guest Room Layout 17
Figure 3 - Dimension and Identification of Car Parking Space for Persons 19
with a Disability
Figure 4 - Side by Side Parking Spaces for Persons with a Disability 20

Figure 5 - Parking Space Indication Signage 22

Figure 6A - Tactile Guide Paths at Building Entrances Linking up with Initial 24
Access on the Lot Boundary and Interior Facilities
Figure 6B - Typical Tactile Guide Path Junction 25
Figure 6C - Examples of Details of Tactile Warning Tiles/Blocks 26
Figure 7 - Tactile Warning Strips and Landings for Ramps 29
Figure 8 - Running Slope and Length 30
Figure 9 - Dropped Kerb 33
Figure 10 - Examples of Design of Dropped Kerb 35
Figure 11 - Dropped Kerb at Street Corner 36
Figure 12 - Dropped Kerb for Access Road and Narrow Pavement 36
Figure 13 - Arrangement of Tactile Warning Strips and Handrails at 39
Staircases
Figure 14 - Example of Staircase Plan for Persons with a Disability 41
Figure 15 - Handrails 43
Figure 16A - Handrails of Staircase 45
Figure 16B - Handrail in Recess 47
Figure 17 - Grating Size and Orientation 49
Figure 18 - Width of Controlled Passages 50
Figure 19 - Overhead Hazard 51
Figure 20 - Dimension and Space Allowance for Corridor in Building 53
Figure 21 - Examples of Design to Cater for Protrusion Hazards 55
Figure 22 - Plan of Door Suitable for Wheelchair 57
Figure 23 - Guardrails at Out-swinging Automatic Doors 60
Figure 23A - Example of Door Threshold 61
Figure 24 - Accessible Toilet 66
Figure 25 - Urinal for Use by Persons with Ambulant Disabilities 67
 CONTENTS

LIST OF FIGURES

Page
Figure 25A - Elevation of Power-operated Sliding Door 70
(View from Outside of Accessible Toilet)
Figure 25B - Elevation of Power-operated Sliding Door 70
(View from Inside of Accessible Toilet)
Figure 25C - Plan of Power-operated Swing Door 71
(Control Button(s) on Separate Walls)
Figure 25D - Plan of Power-operated Swing Door 71
(Control Button(s) on Same Wall)
Figure 26 - Flap-type Diaper Changing Station 72
Figure 26A - Indicating Tiles/Blocks for Urinal Used by Persons with 74
Ambulant Disabilities
Figure 26B - Details of Indicating Tiles/Blocks 74
Figure 27 - Examples of Bathroom and Shower Compartment 79
Figure 28 - Proportional Layout for International Symbol of Accessibility 80
Figure 29 - Directional Signs 81
Figure 30 - Proportional Layout for International Symbol of Access for 82
Hearing Loss
Figure 31 - Specifications of Braille Cells and Tactile Signs 83
Figure 32 - Braille and Tactile Fire Exit Map 84
Figure 32A - Example of Braille and Tactile Plan of Toilet and Changing 85
Room
Figure 33 - Tactile Guide Path to Lift Zone 87
Figure 34 - Tactile Guide Path to Information/Service Counter 88
Figure 35 - Tactile Guide Path to Tactile/Braille Directory Map/Floor Plan 88
Figure 36 - Tactile Warning Strip to Escalator or Passenger Conveyor 89
Figure 37 - Examples of Public Information Symbols 91
Figure 38 - Front View of Information/Service Counter for Wheelchair 94
Users
Figure 39 - Key Heights of Counters and Reception Desks 95
Figure 40 - Accessible Lift 104
Figure 41 - Tactile Graphic for Lift Control Buttons 106
Figure 42 - Proposed Standardised Position of Buttons for Keypad 109
Control Device
Figure 43 - Heights of Switches and Controls 118
Figure 44 - Digit 5 Indicator 122
Figure 45 - (repealed) -
Figure 46 - Built-in Drinking Fountain 131
Figure 47 - Examples of Door Handles and Faucets 138
 PREFACE

1. This Design Manual is an updated version of the “Design Manual : Barrier Free
Access 1997”.

2. The Design Manual : Barrier Free Access 1997 sets out the design requirements
of providing proper access to and appropriate facilities in a building for persons
with a disability and other sectors of the population including the elderly, who at
times require the same provisions as persons with a disability. Following a review
of the 1997 Design Manual together with the legislation, legal framework and
administration, it has been identified that while Hong Kong’s existing principal and
subsidiary legislation caters for some of the needs of persons with a disability, it
does not adequately address the specific needs of the elderly in terms of spatial
requirements and facilities.

3. In the next 20 to 30 years we will see a significant demographic shift in the

population of Hong Kong with a greater proportion of the elderly. It must be
acknowledged that persons with a disability and the elderly are as much a part of
our society as everyone else, would require better integration of facilities for
barrier free access. During the review of the “Design Manual : Barrier Free
Access 1997”, some of the standards in providing more reasonable and clearer
guidelines have been re-examined. Those provisions that were open to
interpretation have been refined to remove any possible ambiguities. Those
provisions that were considered not necessary have been proposed to be relaxed
after considering local conditions and users’ requirements. In addition, the scope
of the Manual has also been expanded to include provision of facilities for the
elderly to enhance their health and safety and to facilitate their movement within
buildings.

4. The “barrier-free” design requirements, newly introduced design considerations

and recommended design requirements aim to facilitate greater independence of
not only persons with a disability and the elderly but also people with other forms
of physical infirmities or limitations such as pregnant women, families with young
children. It is intended that the implementation of this Design Manual will result in
greater awareness of the public, professionals and developers who will come to
appreciate the value of making the built-environment more accessible and
friendly to as broad a spectrum of our community as possible.

5. Since its first publication in 2008, the Design Manual 2008 (2021 Edition)
incorporates various amendments made in November 2012, September 2015,
April 2017, June 2019, October 2020 and December 2021 as summarised below:

i
1
 Amendment by PNAP APP-41 Reference
https://www.bd.gov.hk/doc/en/resources/
November 2012
codes-and-references/code-and-design
-manuals/OldVersions/DM_BFA_ov.zip
September 2015

April 2017

June 2019

October 2020

December 2021

6. This Design Manual is available for viewing in the Buildings Department website
www.bd.gov.hk under the “Codes, design manuals and guidelines” page of the
“Resources” section. It may be downloaded subject to the terms and conditions
stipulated in the website.

First issue : December 2008

This revision : December 2021

1ii
 CHAPTER 1

FOREWORD

1.1 The Disability Discrimination Ordinance was enacted in August 1995. It prohibits,
among other things, discrimination against persons with a disability by failing to provide
means of access to any premises that the public or a section of the public is entitled or
allowed to enter or use, or by refusing to provide appropriate facilities. However, there
is no discrimination in relation to the provision of access to premises if the premises are
so designed or constructed as to be inaccessible to persons with a disability and any
alteration to the premises to provide such access would impose unjustifiable hardship
on the persons who would have to provide it. A person who believes he or she has
been discriminated against in relation to access to premises or the provision of facilities
may lodge a complaint with the Equal Opportunities Commission or may institute legal
proceedings in the court. Reference may be made to this Manual as one sees fit in
considering whether it is reasonable to require the provision of such access or facilities.

1.2 For a new building or for the alterations or additions to an existing building, section 84 of
the Disability Discrimination Ordinance stipulates that:

“84. Building approvals

(1) Notwithstanding any provision in any other Ordinance (whether enacted

before or after the commencement of this Ordinance) but subject to
subsection (3), a public authority which has the power to approve building
works shall not, in respect of those works, approve building plans, whether for
a new building or for the alterations or additions to an existing building unless
the person seeking approval satisfies the public authority that such access as
is reasonable in the circumstances to the building or premises will be provided
for persons with a disability.

(2) In considering whether reasonable access will be provided under subsection

(1), the public authority may take into account:

(a) whether it is practicable to provide such access within the curtilage of the
building, bearing in mind the physical location and immediate environs of
the building; and
(b) whether providing such access would impose unjustifiable hardship on
the person seeking approval or on any other person.

(3) Subsection (1) has no application to:

(a) buildings of 13 m or less in height above ground level which are used, or
intended to be used, for occupation by a single family; or
(b) temporary buildings or contractor’s sheds referred to in Part VII of the
Building (Planning) Regulations (Cap. 123 sub. leg.).

1
1.2 (Cont’d)

(4) In this section, “public authority” includes:

(a) the Director of Lands;

(b) the Building Authority;
(c) the Housing Authority;
(d) the Director of Architectural Services.”

1.3 This Manual applies to the design and construction of new buildings or alterations and
additions to existing buildings. Relevant Government authorities and departments will
also refer to it in the design and construction of their buildings.

1.4 To ensure effective enforcement, the following obligatory design requirements of this
Manual are put into the following legislation:

Legislation Obligatory Design Requirements

Building (Planning) Division 1 auditorium and related facilities
Regulations Division 2 hotels, hostels and guesthouses
Division 3 carparks
Division 4 access route
Division 5 ramps
Division 6 dropped kerbs
Division 7 steps and staircases
Division 8 handrails
Division 9 corridors, lobbies and paths
Division 10 doors
Division 11 toilets and W.C. cubicles
Division 12 bathrooms and shower compartments
Division 13 signs
Division 14 special obligatory design requirements to assist persons with
visual/hearing impairment to various uses of buildings in
Table 2
Division 15 public information or service counters
Division 16 illumination
Division 17 emergency call bell in accessible toilets
Division 18 assistive listening systems
Division 19 lifts, indication and notification
Division 20 escalators and passenger conveyors

For those obligatory design requirements which are not put into the above legislation, it is
intended to incorporate them into the following codes of practice:

Code of Practice Obligatory Design Requirements

COP for Minimum Fire Service Installations and Visual alarm and audible alarm in
Equipment and Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of paragraph 5.2 in Chapter 5.
Installations and Equipment deemed to satisfy the
requirements of the Director of Fire Services for the
purpose of complying with Section 16(1)(b) of the
Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123)
COP on the Design and Construction of Lifts and Emergency call buttons in lifts in
Escalators and COP for Lift Works and Escalator Division 19.
Works deemed to satisfy Lifts and Escalators (Safety)
Ordinance (Cap. 327)

2
 CHAPTER 2

EXTENT OF APPLICATION

2.1 EXTENT OF APPLICATION

2.1.1 The requirements set out in this Manual are classified into:

(a) Mandatory Section

- Performance Objectives
The Performance Objectives are guiding principles for the design and
construction of the building or building works in the provision of
barrier free access. Compliance with the Obligatory Design
Requirements will achieve the Performance Objectives. Where
alternative designs are proposed in lieu of strict compliance with the
Obligatory Design Requirements, such alternative designs must be
able to achieve the relevant Performance Objectives.

- Obligatory Design Requirements

All Obligatory Design Requirements shall be complied with.

(b) Best Practice Section

- Design Considerations
These are considerations to improve provisions leading to better and
more convenient access and facilities. The considerations should
facilitate efficient and effective access, and promote greater
awareness to professionals and building owners for building more
friendly and accessible built-environment for all its intended users.

- Recommended Design Requirements

These standards are included for the reference of professionals and
building owners who intend to provide access and/or special facilities
that are enhanced from the Obligatory Design Requirements for the
use by all intended users.

2.1.2 Subject to “2.2 Exemptions” in Chapter 2, a new building or any alterations or

additions to an existing building shall be designed in accordance with the
Mandatory Section set out in this Manual provided that:

(a) the means of access and facilities stipulated in the Mandatory Section
shall be provided to the categories of buildings specified in the left column
of Table 1 and to the extent specified in the right column thereof; and

(b) the extent of application of additional assistive provisions to various uses

of buildings shall be as specified in Table 2.

3
2.1 EXTENT OF APPLICATION (Cont’d)

TABLE 1

CATEGORY OF BUILDINGS & EXTENT OF THE APPLICATION OF DESIGN

MANUAL
Category of Extent of application
Buildings of this Manual

Domestic - All common areas of buildings of more than four (4) storeys.
buildings
- Main entrance and common area of the ground floor and means
of access to buildings which do not exceed four (4) storeys.

Excluding the parts of the building stated in paragraph 2.2.2 in

Chapter 2.

Non-domestic - All parts of such buildings.

buildings
Excluding the parts of the building stated in paragraph 2.2.2 in
Chapter 2.

Composite - Non-domestic parts of such buildings.

buildings
- All common areas of the domestic parts of such buildings, if the
domestic parts exceed four (4) storeys.

- Main entrance and common area of the ground floor and means
of access thereto, if the domestic parts do not exceed four (4)
storeys.

Excluding the parts of the building stated in paragraph 2.2.2 in

Chapter 2.

4
2.1 EXTENT OF APPLICATION (Cont’d)

TABLE 2
“Y” denotes “Applicable”
“-“ denotes “Not Applicable”

EXTENT OF APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ASSISTIVE PROVISIONS TO VARIOUS USES

OF BUILDINGS
Uses of buildings Required Additional Assistive Provisions listed below:

Braille & Tactile guide Visual Display Accessible Visual Fire Assistive Listening
tactile floor path Board Public Alarm System System
plan [para. 13 in [para. 69(4) in Information / [para. 5.2 in [para. 77 in
[para. 69(2) in Division 4 and Division 14] Service Chapter 5] Division 18]
Division 14] para. 69(3) in Counter
Division 14] [para. 70 in
Division 15]
1. Domestic use - - - - - -

2. Common areas - - - - Y -
of Office

3. Department Y Y - Y Y -
store and shopping
complex

4. Hotel, Y - - Y Y -
guesthouse, hostel
and bank

5. Place for worship Y - - Y Y -

6. Cinema, theatre, Y Y Y Y Y Y
concert hall,
stadium, museum,
theme park and
purpose-built family
amusement centre

7. School, college, Y Y - Y Y -
university and
public library

8. Factory, - - - - Y -
workshop and place
for industrial use

9. Sports complex Y Y - Y Y -
and public
swimming pool
complex

10. Restaurant and Y - - - Y -

food court

11. Indoor market Y - - - Y -

and supermarket

5
2.1 EXTENT OF APPLICATION (Cont’d)

TABLE 2 (Cont’d)

EXTENT OF APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ASSISTIVE PROVISIONS TO VARIOUS USES

OF BUILDINGS
Uses of buildings Required Additional Assistive Provisions listed below:

Braille & Tactile guide Visual Display Accessible Visual Fire Assistive Listening
tactile floor path Board Public Alarm System System
plan [para. 13 in [para. 69(4) in Information / [para. 5.2 in [para. 77 in
[para. 69(2) in Division 4 and Division 14] Service Chapter 5] Division 18]
Division 14] para. 69(3) in Counter
Division 14] [para. 70 in
Division 15]
12. Hospital, Y Y Y Y Y Y
purpose-built clinic

13. Residential Y Y - Y Y -
home for the elderly
and welfare centre

14. Club house Y - - Y Y -

15. Transport Y Y Y Y Y Y
station,
interchange,
passenger terminal

16. Carpark Y - - - Y -

6
2.2 EXEMPTIONS

2.2.1 The Obligatory Design Requirements shall not apply to the following buildings:

(a) Buildings of 13 m or less in height above ground level which are used, or
intended to be used, for occupation by a single family; or

(b) Temporary buildings or contractor’s sheds referred to in Part VII of the

Building (Planning) Regulations (Cap.123 sub. leg.).

2.2.2 The Obligatory Design Requirements shall not apply to the following areas or
parts of a building as there is a relatively high risk to persons with a disability in
these areas/parts:

(a) Commercial kitchen, cold room and cinema projector room.

(b) Area only used for building services and maintenance (testing, inspection,
verification, repair and overhaul) including:
(i) plant, cooling tower and power plant;
(ii) equipment and lift motor room, and electrical transformer room and
switch room, battery room, machinery room, plant room and pump
room;
(iii) boiler room;
(iv) non-tenantable spaces accessed only by ladder, catwalk or crawl
space;
(v) access route for maintenance, pit, lift shaft and ventilation shaft; and
(vi) sub-station, telecommunication equipment room, metering area, or
the like.

(c) Area used for storage of raw material or produce or for bulk storage where:
(i) the stored material is hazardous; or
(ii) the public is not permitted to enter, such as waste containment area,
chemical store, or the like.

(d) Mezzanine floor used only for storage, plant and equipment installation or
the like.

(e) Raised platform used primarily for purpose of security or safety

management, including, but not limited to, guard tower or fixed lifeguard
stand.

(f) Swimming pool (the water containing pool only).

(g) Any path providing access only to an exempted area.

7
 CHAPTER 3

PRELIMINARY

1. INTERPRETATION

For the purpose of this Manual, the following terms are defined as:

“Access” is means to enable persons with a disability to approach, enter and leave
the building and to use the facilities therein without assistance or undue difficulties.

“Accessible” describes a site, building, facility or portion thereof that is barrier-free,

can be approached, entered and used by persons with a disability and complies with
this Manual.

“Accessible lift” means a lift fully complied with the obligatory design requirements in
Division 19.

“Accessible route” is a continuous unobstructed path which is easily identifiable for

persons with a disability or the elderly to approach, enter and leave the building and
to use the facilities therein without assistance or undue difficulties.

“Assistive listening system” means a system which enables sound signs that are
amplified in both volume and signal to be transmitted to persons with hearing
impairment without interference from background noise or excessive reverberation.

“Common areas” are those areas open to and available for the common use and
enjoyment of all occupiers of the building.

“Door” includes one leaf of a pair of double doors.

“Persons with a disability” means persons who on account of injury, disease, or

congenital deformity, are impaired in vision, hearing or locomotion. Such persons
shall include persons with ambulant disabilities, wheelchair users, persons with visual
impairment, the blind, persons with hearing impairment and the deaf.

“Persons with ambulant disabilities” are persons with ambulant impairment who may
require the aid of devices such as prostheses, orthoses, sticks or crutches for walking.

“Required staircase” means an access staircase in a firefighting and rescue stairway

or a staircase required for means of escape in case of fire.

“Tactile guide path” means a standardized pattern applied to or built onto walking
surfaces through the combined use of tactile directional tiles/blocks, positional
tiles/blocks and tactile hazard warning tiles/blocks for way finding and orientation for
persons with visual impairment.

8
1. INTERPRETATION (Cont’d)

“Tactile warning strip” means a standardized pattern applied to or built onto walking
surfaces through the use of tactile hazard warning tiles/blocks to warn persons with
visual impairment of certain construction features.

“Wheelchair users” are those persons who depend on wheelchairs for mobility.

“Luminous contrast” means the amount of light reflected from the surface of the
object compared to the amount of light reflected from the surface of its surrounding
background. Such contrast expressed in percent can be determined by:
[(B1-B2) / B1] x 100
Where
B1 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the lighter area and
B2 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the darker area.
[Sources from AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT ACCESSIBILITY
GUIDELINES (ADAAG)]

“Unjustifiable Hardship” has the same meaning as ‘unjustifiable hardship’ referred to

in section 4 of the Disability Discrimination Ordinance Cap. 487, which reads:

‘For the purposes of this Ordinance in determining what constitutes

unjustifiable hardship, all relevant circumstances of the particular case are to
be taken into account including:

(a) the reasonableness of any accommodation to be made available to a

person with a disability;
(b) the nature of the benefit or detriment likely to accrue or be suffered by
any persons concerned;
(c) the effect of the disability of the person concerned; and
(d) the financial circumstances of and the estimated amount of
expenditure (including recurrent expenditure) required to be made by
the person claiming unjustifiable hardship.’

9
 CHAPTER 4

DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Division 1 --- AUDITORIUM AND RELATED FACILITIES

2. This Division is applicable to the auditorium for audience and backstage

facilities of theatre, cinema, concert hall, sports stadium, games hall and other
entertainment related premises as well as lecture hall and conference hall.

3. In this Division, “relevant activity” means the activity for the purpose of which
the audience in the premises attend the premises.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

The seating areas of an auditorium, the stage and backstage facilities, shall be
provided with safe and convenient access for all people including persons with
a disability.

Obligatory Design Requirements

4. Wheelchair Spaces

A minimum of four wheelchair spaces shall be provided at spectator level in the

auditorium with not more than 800 fixed seats. For auditorium with more than
800 fixed seats at spectator level, two wheelchair spaces shall be provided for
every 400 fixed seats and any part thereof. (For example, at least six
wheelchair spaces shall be provided if there are 900 fixed seats.) The spaces
shall be grouped in pairs (not less than two) and also not separated from the
seats for other audiences. Each wheelchair space shall have unobstructed line
of vision to the stage areas at which the relevant activity takes place, and be of
minimum size of 800 mm x 1300 mm, with the side of 800 mm facing towards
the stage podium or screen. The minimum width of the passage leading to a
wheelchair space from an accessible entrance of the auditorium shall not be
less than 1500 mm (see Figure 1A).

Readily removable seats can be installed in wheelchair spaces when the

spaces are not occupied by wheelchair users.

10
TOP VIEW

SIDE
SIDEVIEW
VIEW
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 1A – Wheelchair Space in an Auditorium

11
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

5. Access for Wheelchair Users

The auditorium, the stage, backstage facilities, changing rooms, rehearsal

rooms, dressing rooms, rest rooms, toilets and shower rooms shall be
accessible to wheelchair users. If there is an access connecting two or more of
them, an equivalent accessible route shall be provided for wheelchair users, e.g.
by a ramp in compliance with Division 5, an accessible lift in compliance with
Division 19.

6. Braille and Tactile Fire Exit Maps and Tactile Warning Strips

(1) Braille and tactile fire exit maps as shown in Figure 32 shall be provided at
all entrances to the auditorium.

(2) Tactile warning strips complying with paragraph 26 shall be provided at

both the top and bottom ends of the staircases leading to the stage.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Seating allocation for persons with a disability should be accessible by

provision of a direct, easily identifiable route free from obstructions, and
preferably adjacent to the means of egress and accessible toilets.

(b) The wheelchair spaces should be so located that the wheelchair user
may have the choice of sitting with another wheelchair user or
conventionally seated companion.

(c) The lines of sight provided by the wheelchair spaces should be

comparable to those of other normal viewing positions.

(d) It is a good practice to provide wheelchair spaces at different levels of the

seating area in order to have a variety of viewing locations. An example
of wheelchair space arrangement is shown in Figure 1B.

(e) Safety barrier should be provided to wheelchair spaces located at high

level to minimise the risk of the wheelchair falling over the edge.

12
 Figure 1B – Example of Wheelchair Spaces in a Lecture Hall

B. Recommended Design Requirements

(a) A conventional companion seat may be provided next to each wheelchair

seating location.

(b) Removable seats may be provided in wheelchair seating locations for

spare use by persons other than wheelchair users.

(c) Access should be provided to the low and high levels of the auditorium.

(d) Removable seats should be provided at accessible spectator levels in an

auditorium for the use by large group of wheelchair users for special
functions/occasions. Adequate numbers of removable seats to
accommodate sixteen wheelchair spaces should be provided in the
auditorium with not more than 800 fixed seats. For the auditorium with
more than 800 fixed seats, adequate numbers of removable seats to
accommodate eight wheelchair spaces should be provided for every
additional 400 fixed seats and any part thereof.

13
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

(e) Where conventional seat numbers are provided, Braille and tactile seat
number should be provided at the top of each seat rest. The specification
of Braille cells is provided in Figure 31.

(f) Sound enhancement system may be provided at the designated areas for
persons with hearing impairment.

(g) Eight wheelchair spaces should be provided at spectator levels in an

auditorium with not more than 800 fixed seats. For auditorium with more
than 800 fixed seats, four wheelchair spaces should be provided for every
additional 400 fixed seats and any part thereof.

(h) Visual display of subtitles should be provided at an appropriate location.

(i) A room with a view of the performance for “audio description” should be
provided for the visually impaired persons.

14
 Division 2 --- HOTELS, HOSTELS AND GUESTHOUSES

This Division is applicable to guest rooms designated for the use of persons
with a disability in hotels, hostels and guesthouses.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

7. Guest Rooms

(1) The accessible guest rooms provided in a hotel, hostel or guesthouse

shall be accessible by persons with a disability not only to the rooms but
also to all sleeping, bathing and sanitary facilities in the rooms.

Obligatory Design Requirements

Minimum Provision

(2) A minimum of two accessible guest rooms with full facilities for persons
with a disability shall be provided in a hotel, hostel and guesthouse.
Two such accessible rooms shall be provided for every 100 guest rooms
and any part thereof. (For example, a total of four such accessible
rooms shall be provided if there are 150 guest rooms.)

The bathroom and shower facilities serving an accessible guest room shall
comply with Division 12.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Within an accessible guest room, wheelchair user should be able to

manoeuvre around and use the facilities in the room, and operate
switches and controls. The internal layout should be large enough to
enable a wheelchair user to transfer to one side of a bed, with or without
assistance.

(b) In addition, it is important to ensure that the built-in wardrobes and

shelving in all guest rooms are accessible and convenient to use.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

(a) A typical guest room layout is shown in Figure 2 and typical bathroom
and shower compartment are shown in Figure 27.

15
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

(b) For every 100 guest rooms and any part thereof, in addition to accessible
guest rooms, the following types of guest rooms should be provided:

(i) A minimum of two guest rooms with visual door bells installed at a
prominent location and the function can be switched on or off
conveniently by the guest; and
(ii) A minimum of two guest rooms located near lift lobby with Braille
and tactile fire exit maps at the back of guest room doors, and
Braille and tactile information for main lamp switch controls.

(c) Where planning allows, the accessible guest rooms required under
paragraph 7(2) of Division 2 should be provided with the facilities in
paragraph (b)(i) and (ii) above in full or in combination.

(d) Where planning allows, the guest rooms in paragraph (b)(i) above should
be provided with the facilities for accessible guest rooms in paragraph
7(2) of Division 2 and facilities in paragraph (b)(ii) above in full or in
combination.

(e) Where planning allows, the guest rooms in paragraph (b)(ii) above
should be provided with the facilities for accessible guest rooms in
paragraph 7(2) of Division 2 and facilities in paragraph (b)(i) above in full
or in combination.

(f) For floors with guest rooms provided under paragraph (b)(ii) above,
Braille sign should be installed on the wall adjacent to the open side of
each door leading to an exit staircase to indicate such information. The
sign should be placed at 900 mm to 1500 mm above the finished floor
level.

(g) A sign with guest room number in raised Arabic numerals/characters and
Braille should be installed on the wall adjacent to the door lock of all
guest rooms. The sign should be placed at 900 mm to 1500 mm above
the finished floor level.

16
 SLIDING DOOR

Clear Opening
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm 850 (MIN.)

DIMENSIONS PRINTED IN BOLD FORM DENOTE OBLIGATORY DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

DIMENSIONS PRINTED IN ITALIC FORM DENOTE RECOMMENDED DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Figure 2 – Typical Guest Room Layout

17
 Division 3 --- CARPARKS

This Division aims to provide standards for accessible car parking spaces
designated for the use of persons with a disability.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

8. Ratio of Accessible Parking Spaces

(1) Adequate numbers of accessible car parking spaces shall be provided

with proper access, proper designation and directional signage in the
carparks.

Obligatory Design Requirements

(2) Total No. of Car Parking Space Required No. of Accessible

in Lot Car Parking Spaces
1-50 1
51-150 2
151-250 3
251-350 4
351-450 5
Above 450 6

9. Requirements for Accessible Parking Spaces

(1) The parking spaces reserved for persons with a disability shall be
located in proximity and with an accessible route to the lobby with an
accessible lift or entrance.

(2) The minimum width for a parking space for persons with a disability shall
be 3500 mm.

(3) Where a common loading/unloading area is provided between two

parking spaces for persons with a disability, such parking spaces shall
be not less than 2500 mm in width.

(4) The common loading/unloading area shall be of at least 1200 mm wide

and be marked with yellow hatched markings as shown in Figure 4.

10. Marking Requirements for Accessible Parking Spaces

The parking space shall be clearly marked with the international symbol of
accessibility and the parking space number on the floor as shown in Figure 3.

18
 1500

1500
3500 (MIN.) 2500

3500 (MIN.) 2500

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 3 – Dimension and Identification of Car Parking Space for

Persons with a Disability

19
 1500

1500
2500 1200 (MIN.) 2500

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 4 – Side by Side Parking Spaces for Persons with a Disability

20
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Persons with ambulant impairment who arrive as passengers should be

able to alight conveniently from a vehicle close to the principal entrance, or
alternative accessible entrance, of the building.

(b) The parking bay surface should allow the safe transfer of a passenger or
driver to a wheelchair and transfer from the parking bay to the access route
to the building without undue effort, barriers to wheelchairs or hazards
from tripping.

(c) Where a ticket dispensing machine is installed, it should be located

properly to allow wheelchair users, or persons of short stature, to
approach conveniently to the machine and perform the payment and ticket
dispensing functions.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

(a) At the entrance of public parking facilities, signage should be displayed

in prominent positions to indicate the designated numbers of the parking
spaces reserved for persons with a disability (see Figure 5).

(b) Indication/directional signage along driveway showing the way leading

to the parking spaces reserved for persons with a disability should be
provided.

(c) Accessible car parking spaces should be provided as follow:

Total No. of Car Parking Space No. of Accessible Car

in Lot Parking Spaces
1-25 1
26-50 2
51-100 3
for each additional increment of one additional space
100 or part thereof

21
Figure 5 – Parking Space Indication Signage

22
 Division 4 --- ACCESS ROUTE

This Division aims to ensure proper access for all people, with or without
disabilities to approach, enter or leave a building independently to reach and use
its facilities, such as foyers, lifts, toilets, shops, restaurants, cinemas, etc. without
undue difficulty.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

An easily identifiable continuous and relatively level path free from obstruction or
any kind of hazards shall be provided for persons with a disability to enter, move
within and leave a building to reach the accessible facilities.

Obligatory Design Requirements

11. Provision of Access Route

Access shall be provided from a prominent point or points on the lot boundary,
which is accessible to a public street or pedestrian way, directly to at least one
entrance which is commonly used by the public or to a point directly adjacent to
one entrance which is commonly used by the public and to an accessible lift,
unless it is impractical to do so because of difficult terrain or unusual
characteristics of the site.

In case where the main entrance is not an accessible entrance or it is impractical

to provide a commonly used entrance at prominent point on the lot boundary due
to difficult terrain or unusual characteristics of the site (e.g. in the case of a sloping
site or presence of steep access road/driveway), this would be acceptable provided
that persons with a disability could reach the building by means of vehicle and
adequate directional signs shall be posted at conspicuous location of the main
entrance to show clearly the location of and the route to an accessible entrance.

12. Requirements for Access Route

Width
(1) The clear width of an access route shall be not less than 1050 mm.

Free from Barriers

(2) Such access shall be free from protrusion hazards, steps, kerbs other than
dropped kerbs, steep ramps, doors or doorways which will impede the
passage of a wheelchair, or other form of barrier which will prevent access
by persons with a disability.

Surface
(3) The surface of an access route shall be firm.

13. Tactile Guide Path

For categories of buildings as required in Table 2, such access shall be provided

with a tactile guide path as illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B. Examples of
specification of tactile tile/block are shown in Figure 6C.

23
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 6A – Tactile Guide Paths at Building Entrances Linking up with Initial

Access on the Lot Boundary and Interior Facilities

24
 600

POSITIONAL TILES/
BLOCKS

DIRECTIONAL TILES/
BLOCKS

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 6B – Typical Tactile Guide Path Junction

25
Three kinds of tactile tiles/blocks as shown in Figure 6C are commonly used in constructing a tactile guide path:
i) Directional Tile/Block
This has parallel raised bars for guiding the users along an intended safe path.
ii) Hazard Warning Tile/Block
This has raised big dots (35 mm in diameter) arranged in square grid parallel to the sides of the slab for
indication of potential hazards ahead. This type of tile/block could be used alone to form tactile warning strips
at the top and bottom ends of staircase or ramps, and at dropped kerb.
iii) Positional Tile/Block
This has raised small dots (23 mm in diameter) placed in staggered positions for indication of possible
change in walking directions.

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 6C – Examples of Details of Tactile Warning Tiles/Blocks

26
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) In designing an access to the building, it should be recognised that changes

in level are difficult for many people to negotiate, including wheelchair users,
people who use walking aids and persons with visual impairment.

(b) Access routes from the lot boundary to the entrance of a building should be
wide enough to allow wheelchair users and other users to pass
simultaneously.

(c) Easily identifiable access route e.g. tactile guide path for persons with visual
impairment should be provided from the lot boundary to the entrance of a
building.

(d) Indication signage for accessible entrances should be provided where more
than one entrance exist in a complex building.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Width

(a) The clear width of the access route should not be less than 1500 mm.

Floor Space

(b) In large floor space of more than 200 m2 where the cues of physical edges
such as walls and handrails are not present, tactile guide paths should be
used to facilitate orientation of persons with visual impairment.

Surface

(c) The surface of the access should be firm and slip-resistant with a “static
coefficient of friction” of “Good” grading (see Appendix C).

Directional Tiles/Blocks

(d) A minimum clearance between directional tiles/blocks of tactile guide path

and an obstruction should be maintained as follows:

Clear Width of Access Route Minimum Clearance

1050 mm – less than 1200 mm 350 mm

1200 mm – less than 1350 mm 450 mm
1350 mm – less than 1500 mm 500 mm
1500 mm or above 600 mm

27
 Division 5 --- RAMPS

A ramp is a sloping walkway leading from one level to another.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives
14. Ramps of an appropriate design shall be provided at all changes in level
other than those served by an accessible lift or accessible lifting
mechanism accommodating the specific requirements of persons with a
disability.

Obligatory Design Requirements

15. Width
A ramp shall not be less than 1050 mm in width.

16. Landing
A clear space of not less than 1500 mm x 1500 mm shall be provided at
the head and foot of every ramp, i.e. door swing and alike shall not be
allowed to swing onto the landing.

17. Running Slope and Length

No ramp shall be steeper than 1 in 12 gradient except in the following

situations of minor rise:

Maximum slope Maximum length Maximum rise

1:10 i.e., 10% 1500 mm 150 mm
1:8 i.e., 12.5% 600 mm 75 mm

18. Requirements for Ramps

Combination of ramps of minor rise as stated in paragraph 17 shall not
be permitted.
(1) If the gradient of a ramp is 1 in 20 or steeper, the ramp shall be
provided with:
(a) a landing of not less than 1200 mm long for each 10 m length
of horizontal run or part thereof; (see Figure 7)
(b) handrails complying with Division 8 on both sides; and
(c) tactile warning strips at the head, foot and landings (see Figure
7).
(2) The above items shall not apply to ramp access to lift or ramp with
a length less than 300 mm.

19. Protection and Surface

(1) Any ramp with a rise greater than 200 mm, leading down towards
an area where there may be vehicular traffic, shall have a railing
or barrier across the full width of its lower end, and be not less
than 1500 mm from the foot of the ramp.

28
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

(2) Raised traction strip shall be avoided.

(3) A kerb of at least 100 mm high, or a rail 200 mm above ramp level
shall be provided on both sides to prevent wheelchair from
slipping over the edge.

(4)&(5) No appliances, fixtures and fittings shall project beyond 90 mm

from the surface of any wall below a level of 2000 mm above the
ramp level unless they are unavoidable, in which case they shall
also be extended downwards to the ramp level or be guided by
tactile flooring materials.

(6) The floor and wall along ramps shall be in contrasting colours.

LANDING TO BE PROVIDED
FOR EACH OF 10m LENGTH OF
HORIZONTAL RUN OR PART THEREOF

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 7 - Tactile Warning Strips and Landings for Ramps

29
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Where there is a change in level, the provision of a ramp is an

effective method to ensure largely independent accessibility for
persons with a disability and the elderly. Interior ramp is preferred
as a means of egress to stair as it accommodates a wider range of
building user, including wheelchair user.

(b) The more gradual the slope of the ramp (i.e. the less steep it is) the
more easily persons can use it without assistance. Therefore,
slope with the ratio of 1:20 (5%) to 1:15 (6.7%) is preferred. It can
take much energy to get up ramp with steep gradient, which also
makes speed control difficult when going down. Steep inclines can
put a wheelchair in danger of tipping backwards or forwards as
many users cannot lean or adjust their balance to accommodate
gradient (see Figure 8).

(c) A level resting space outside the swing of any door at the top of a
ramp should be provided to avoid the possibility of ‘roll-back’ for
wheelchair user when trying to open the door.

(d) A ramp should have handrails on both sides so that it can be used
in both directions by people with a mobility problem on one side
such as may be the case for stroke sufferers.

(e) A ramp that surmounts a major change in level has to be very long,
and requires multiple ramp and landing combinations. In such
circumstances, other design solutions should be considered.

(f) A curved ramp is not a preferred design solution. Similarly a cross

fall can put a wheelchair user at risk and may adversely affect
steering, particularly on manually propelled chair.

Figure 8 - Running Slope and Length

30
B. Recommended Design Requirements

(a) A ramp should have a running slope 1:12 (8.33%) to 1:20 (5%).

Maximum slope Maximum length Maximum rise

1:20 i.e., 5.00% 10000 mm 500 mm
1:16 i.e., 6.25% 6400 mm 400 mm
1:14 i.e., 7.14% 4200 mm 300 mm
1:12 i.e., 8.33% 1800 mm 150 mm

(b) Width should be at least 1200 mm to enable a wheelchair to turn or

preferably at least 1500 mm to allow 2 wheelchairs to pass.

(c) A ramp should have slip-resistant surface with a minimum “static

coefficient of friction” of “Very Good” grading (see Appendix C).

(d) Tactile warning strips at the head, foot and landing should have a
minimum luminous contrast of 70% with the adjoining surfaces.

(e) The floor and wall along a ramp should have a minimum
luminous contrast of 30%.

31
 Division 6 --- DROPPED KERBS

A dropped kerb is a ramp built on a footpath or pavement to accommodate

the change in level towards vehicular areas.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Dropped kerbs shall be of appropriate design and provided with adequate

visual and tactile warning.

Obligatory Design Requirements

20. General Provision

Changes in level at kerbs shall be by a dropped kerb as illustrated in Figure 9.

Dropped kerb shall be provided at pedestrian crossing and at each end of the
footpath of a private street or access road. Kerb separating footpath or
ramp from vehicular area shall also be a dropped kerb.

21. Requirements

Dropped kerb shall be constructed as follows:

(a) not less than 1200 mm in length and 1200 mm in width;

(b) with a clearance of at least 800 mm long at the back of the footway;
(c) ramped at a gradient not steeper than 1:10;
(d) with a level difference of not more than 15 mm with the vehicular areas;
(e) provided with a tactile warning strip at 300 mm from the vehicular areas;
and
(f) provided with a tactile warning strip of the nominal width of 600 mm at
the ramp.

32
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

1200 (MIN.)

*ALL
*ALLDIMENSIONS
DIMENSIONSARE
AREININmm
mm

Figure 9 – Dropped Kerb

22. Location

Dropped kerb shall be so located to enable users to have an unobstructed

view of traffic approaching from any direction.

23. Surface

Raised traction strips shall be avoided.

33
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) The provision of a dropped kerb is to overcome potential hazard arising

from change in level for persons with or without a disability.

(b) The tactile warning strip should be provided in order to notify the
presence of traffic.

(c) The tactile warning strip should have luminous contrast for the elderly
and persons with visual impairment.

(d) Dropped kerb should have slip-resistant surface. Raised traction strips
should be avoided in order to reduce the hazard to everyone.

(e) Examples of dropped kerb are shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Slip Resistance

(a) Dropped kerb should have slip-resistant surface with a minimum “static
coefficient of friction” of “Very Good” grading (see Appendix C).

Luminous Contrast

(b) Tactile warning strip should have a minimum luminous contrast of 70%
with the adjoining surfaces.

Conjunction with Pedestrian Crossings

(c) Dropped kerb should be provided where necessary and in conjunction

with pedestrian crossings, which should include visible, audible and
tactile crossing devices with traffic lights.

34
 15mm

15

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 10 - Examples of Design of Dropped Kerb

35
 *ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 11 – Dropped Kerb at Street Corner

(Pavement less than 2000 mm wide)

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 12 – Dropped Kerb for Access Road and Narrow Pavement

36
 Division 7 --- STEPS AND STAIRCASES

24. This Division applies only to the required staircase and the main circulation
staircase in the common areas of a building, and sets out requirements to
help people including persons with ambulant disabilities and persons with
visual impairment to negotiate steps and staircases.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Steps and staircases shall be intended as an alternative to lift access in

buildings and shall be of adequate design to allow all persons, with or without
a disability, to travel safely and independently.

Obligatory Design Requirements

25. Dimension and Orientation

The required staircases and the main circulation staircase in common areas
of a building shall:

(a) be constructed with treads not less than 225 mm in width (measured at
the centre of the flight) from the face of one riser to the face of the next
riser and with risers not more than 175 mm in height;
(b) have risers built with vertical or receding face not more than 15 mm from
the vertical, without a projecting nosing;
(c) have not more than 16 steps in any flight without the introduction of a
landing;
(d) be provided on both sides with properly fitted handrails (see paragraph
28(2));
(e) be provided with non-slip nosing in contrasting colour; and
(f) have risers reduced to not more than 160 mm high and treads increased
to not less than 280 mm wide for greater ease of use for external steps
and stairs.

Colour Contrast

(g) Treads and walls of a staircase shall be in contrasting colours.

37
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

26. Tactile Warning Strip

Tactile warning strips shall be provided at landings and at both the bottom
and top ends of a staircase, regardless of the number of steps it comprises.
For landings leading to a floor or those enclosed by wall, railing or balustrade,
tactile warning strips of 300 mm in width shall be provided; for those leading
to an open space or the entrance/exit of a building, the tactile warning strips
shall be 600 mm in width (see Figure 13). In this case, Braille and tactile
information signs shall be provided on the adjacent wall to indicate the
presence of an opening. For a staircase with intermediate steps between
two flights, the provision of tactile warning strips shall follow the arrangement
in Figure 13.

27. Avoidance of Projection

No appliances, fixtures or fittings shall project beyond 90 mm from the

surface of any wall in a staircase below a level of 2000 mm above the treads
of the staircase unless they are unavoidable, in which case they shall also be
extended downwards to the level of the treads.

38
 EXIT
岀口

Braille and tactile

information

LEGEND: A - MIN. 300 HORIZONTAL HANDRAIL EXTENSION

- BRAILLE AND TACTILE INFORMATION INCLUDING DIRECTIONAL ARROW, FLOOR

NUMBER AND INFORMATION SIGN

- TACTILE WARNING STRIP

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 13 – Arrangement of Tactile Warning Strips and Handrails at Staircases

39
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Where steps or stairs are in an accessible route, complementary ramps,

lifts or escalators should be provided.

(b) All steps should be uniform.

(c) Circular stair and sloped landing should be avoided.

(d) It is necessary to provide safe and well-dimensioned staircase for the

comfort of all people, especially those with mobility problems.

(e) When ascending a stair, people who wear calipers or who have stiffness
in hip or knee joints are particularly at risk of trapping the toes of their
shoes beneath projecting nosings.

(f) Stair should be designed with more generous dimensions, e.g. wider
tread, and shorter travel distance is recommended. No open risers
should be installed.

(g) Unawareness of steps is dangerous to persons with visual impairment.

Timely tactile or audible warning of change in level is therefore essential.
Warning should be placed sufficiently in advance of any potential
dangers.

(h) The provision of Braille and high luminous contrast signs is

recommended. For persons with visual impairment, high luminous
contrast, larger font, more prominent and well-defined shape of
sign/signage is recommended.

(i) Despite the design requirements of tactile guide paths and tactile
warning strips would help orientation for persons with visual impairment,
they sometimes impose hazards to people with limited mobility, children
and the elderly.

40
B. Recommended Design Requirements

Dimension and Orientation

(a) For any internal stair with heavy circulation, riser should be reduced to
150 mm high and tread be increased to 300 mm wide for greater ease of
use.

(b) Individual flight should not exceed 1800 mm in height nor a total of 12
risers.

(c) The top nosing of any flight should be built not less than 300 mm from
the point at which the adjoining wall returns (see Figure 14).

(d) Winder, spiral staircase and splayed step should be avoided.

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 14 – Example of Staircase Plan for Persons with a Disability

Luminous Contrast

(e) Non-slip nosing should have a minimum luminous contrast of 30% with
the adjoining surfaces.

(f) Treads of staircase should have a minimum luminous contrast of 30%

with the walls.

41
 Division 8 --- HANDRAILS

Handrails provide support for everyone and are especially helpful for persons
with a disability and the elderly to use staircases, to pull themselves up inclines,
check themselves on declines and to assist them in moving within the building.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Handrails shall be of the correct sizes, strengths and shapes and be

conveniently located to provide secure hand-grips, and be capable of taking the
entire weight of the persons using them.

Obligatory Design Requirements

28. Dimension and Shape of Handrail

(1) Handrail to ramp and step shall be fixed not less than 30 mm and not
more than 50 mm clear of wall and with a clear height of 70 mm from
the top of the bracket to the top of the handrail.

(2) The top of handrail shall be at a height of not less than 850 mm and
not more than 950 mm above any nosing, floor or landing.

(3)&(4) Handrail shall be:

(i) tubular, not less than 32 mm and not greater than 50 mm in
external diameter; or
(ii) in other shapes that can provide the user a grip similar to that
specified in the case of tubular handrails.

(5)&(6) Handrail shall extend horizontally not less than 300 mm beyond the
first and last nosing of every flight of steps or beyond the ends of a
ramp and terminate into a closed end which shall turn down or return
fully to end post or wall face and which shall not project into a route of
travel. Where a door opening is in place, a shortened extension of
not less than 100 mm shall be permitted.

Typical handrail sections are shown in Figure 15.

29. Loading

(1) Handrail shall be installed to resist a load of not less than 1.3 kN applied
vertically or horizontally.

(2) Handrail shall not rotate within its fixing fittings.

42
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 15 - Handrails

43
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

30. Braille and Tactile Information

Braille and tactile information on directional arrow and floor number shall be
provided on handrail on every floor at a designated location as illustrated in
Figures 16A to facilitate persons with visual impairment. Where a directional
sign exists on handrails, Braille and tactile information shall also be provided
as illustrated in Figure 13.

44
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 16A – Handrails of Staircase

45
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Handrail should be designed to provide easy, firm and comfortable grip
to all users and should have no obstruction when people slide their
hands along the handrail.

(b) The installation level of the handrail and clearance dimensions should
facilitate a safer grip and prevent hand injuries especially for the elderly
and persons with visual impairment.

(c) Handrail finished in more noticeable colours with Braille and tactile
information should facilitate self-help circulation of persons with visual
impairment.

(d) The materials and shapes of handrail should be carefully designed to

suit the elderly. In addition, handrail designed with different levels of
grab bars should be recommended for different users’ purposes.

(e) Handrail should be set at a height that is convenient for all users of the
building and should extend safely beyond the top and bottom of a flight
of steps, or a ramp, to give both stability and warning of the presence of
a change in level.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Clear Space

(a) Where the wall has a rough surface, the clear space should be not less
than 45 mm between the handrail and the wall.

(b) A recess containing a handrail should extend not less than 450 mm
above the top of the handrail as illustrated in Figure 16B.

46
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 16B – Handrail in Recess

Double Handrail

(c) One more handrail should be provided at a height of not less than 700
mm and not more than 800 mm above any nosing, floor or landing for
schools and places of public entertainment.

Luminous Contrast

(d) Handrail should have a minimum luminous contrast of 30% with the
surrounding wall surfaces.

Slip-resistant

(e) The surface of the handrails provided under paragraph 28 in Division 8

should be slip-resistant, e.g. stainless steel with hair-line finish.

47
 Division 9 --- CORRIDORS, LOBBIES AND PATHS

Corridors are passages providing for internal circulation within a building.

Lobbies provide interceptions at entries to staircases or lifts and connections to
corridors where appropriate.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Corridors, lobbies and paths shall be designed to an appropriate standard to

allow all people to travel within a building safely and independently.

Obligatory Design Requirements

31. Manoeuvring Space

Space shall be allowed for manoeuvring wheelchairs in corridor, lobby, path

and similar areas as follows:

(a) area shall have a clear width of not less than 1050 mm;
(b) a space not less than 1500 mm x 1500 mm shall be provided within 3500
mm of every dead end;
(c) any lobby in a corridor shall have a length of not less than 1200 mm,
excluding space for door swings;
(d) a level area, extending not less than 1200 mm beyond the swings of the
doors and not less than 1500 mm in width shall be provided on both sides
of every entrance of a building; and
(e) this paragraph shall not apply to lobby which lead to staircase only.

For the purpose of this paragraph, “dead end” is a corridor, lobby or path where
the means of exit for persons with a disability is in one direction only.

32. Channel Covers

On footpath, cover to a channel shall be flush with the surface of the footpath.
Any hole in such cover or between such covers shall have a dimension of not
more than 20 mm.

33. Gratings

Slot of gratings shall have a width of not more than 13 mm and shall not be
parallel with pedestrian travel path (see Figure 17).

48
 SLOTS OF GRATING SHALL
NOT BE PARALLEL WITH
PEDESTRIAN TRAVEL PATH

Figure 17 – Grating Size and Orientation

34. Protrusion

No appliances, fixtures and fittings shall project beyond 90 mm from the surface
of any wall in corridors, paths and lobbies below a level of 2000 mm above the
finished floor level unless they are unavoidable, in which case they shall also be
extended downwards to the finished floor level or guided by tactile flooring
materials.

35. Controlled Passage

For cashier counter, security device installed at shop entrance or turnstile

controlled passage accessible to the public, each shall have at least one path of
minimum 800 mm in width for the use by wheelchair users and clearly marked
with international symbol of accessibility, unless an alternative passage
adjacent to the controlled passage is provided (see Figure 18).

49
 *ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 18 – Width of Controlled Passages

50
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

36. Headroom

Where the headroom is 2000 mm or less from the finished floor level, a warning
guardrail or other barrier shall be provided for detection, having its leading edge
at or below 680 mm above the finished floor level (see Figure 19).

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 19 – Overhead Hazard

51
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Corridors, lobbies and paths should be designed to have appropriate

dimensions to allow people using wheelchair or other forms of mobility aids
to pass others on the access route.

(b) To facilitate the way finding for persons with visual impairment, surfaces
and finishes with luminous contrast between the wall and the ceiling, and
between the wall and the floor should be adopted. Appropriate lighting
design with adequate illumination should also be considered.

(c) Adequate manoeuvring space for wheelchair particularly in lobby and

corridor of domestic building should be provided in order to facilitate the
wheelchair users in passing through corridor especially when turning
through 180° is required.

(d) Protruding object can be extremely hazardous to the persons with visual
impairment as well as the general public. Examples of protruding
obstruction are sign, drinking fountain, fire extinguisher, telephone
enclosure, and underside of stairway or escalator, etc. Protruding object
should be recessed into the wall as far as possible.

(e) Long corridors and passageways are difficult for persons with locomotion
impairment to negotiate. Therefore, adequate resting places with resting
facilities should be provided therein. Such resting facilities should not
reduce the statutory requirements on the clear width of access and
manoeuvring space and should not cause obstruction to access,
circulation and exit routes.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Width

(a) Path width should be more than 1200 mm to enable a wheelchair user to
pass anyone who is on the same path or preferably at least 1500 mm to
allow two wheelchairs to pass. At right angle turns, inside corner should
be splayed or rounded to at least 300 mm radius (see Figure 20).

52
 D

A. A CLEAR WIDTH OF 1500 mm WILL ALLOW TWO WHEELCHAIR USERS TO PASS EACH OTHER.

B. DEPTH OF RECESS SHOULD NOT BE LESS THAN THE WIDTH OF THE DOOR LEAF.

C. 900 mm CLEAR SPACE WHERE DOORS OPEN INTO A CORRIDOR.

D. A CLEAR WIDTH OF CORRIDOR SHOULD NOT BE LESS THAN 1200 mm

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 20 – Dimension and Space Allowance for Corridor in Building

53
B. Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Surface

(b) All corridors should have slip-resistant surfaces with a “static coefficient of
friction” of “Good” grading (see Appendix C).

(c) Surface paved with loose gravel or stone is hazardous and should be
avoided.

(d) Hazards on floor, caused by unnecessary projection or by unexpected

change in level should be avoided.

Luminous Contrast

(e) A minimum luminous contrast of 30% should clearly define between wall,
floor and door surfaces

Protruding Objects

(f) The protruding object should not reduce the statutory required clear width
and height of access and manoeuvering space (see Figure 21).

(g) Protruding object should include but not limited to sign, telephone
enclosure, drinking fountain, fire extinguisher, underside of stairway or
escalator.

(h) Where it is reasonable to anticipate visit of persons with visual impairment,

protruding object should be avoided at pedestrian areas include walkway,
hall, corridor, aisle, lobby, mall and all areas open to the public.

Round Edges

(i) The counters or devices installed at controlled passages and the warning
guard rails provided for low headroom should be designed with round
edges.

Resting Places

(j) Seats (including fold-down seats) or lean-on railings should be provided in

recessed areas at maximum intervals of 50 m in:

(i) long corridors and passageways within transport stations,

interchanges and passenger terminals; and
(ii) public passages within a building connecting with transport stations,
interchanges and passenger terminals.

54
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 21 – Examples of Design to Cater for Protrusion Hazards

55
 Division 10 --- DOORS

37. The requirements of this Division apply to doors on accessible routes.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Doors and doorways shall be designed to enable all people especially

wheelchair user to enter and leave any room unaided or without undue
difficulties.

Obligatory Design Requirements

38. Width of Doors

Door, including one leaf of a pair of double doors, shall have a clear width of
not less than 800 mm between the open door and opposite jamb or the other
leaf (see Figure 22).

39. Unobstructed Area

(1) The unobstructed area adjacent to the door handle on the leading face of
a single door shall not be less than 330 mm in width (see Figure 22).

(2) Door, if less than 330 mm from the corner of a room, shall swing from the
side nearer to that corner.

56
 *ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 22 – Plan of Door Suitable for Wheelchair

40. Double-action Self-closing Doors

Double-action self-closing door shall have a check mechanism to prevent the

door swinging beyond the closed position and a transparent vision-panel with a
bottom edge not more than 1000 mm above the floor and the top edge not less
than 1500 mm above the finished floor level.

41. Handles

Door handle shall not be less than 950 mm and not more than 1050 mm above
the finished floor level, measured from the top surface of the grip.

57
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

42. Door Thresholds

Door threshold shall not exceed 20 mm in height and shall be bevelled to

facilitate passage of wheelchairs.

43. Door Closing Devices

Door closing devices shall be designed to allow exterior and interior doors to be
opened with horizontal force of not more than 30 N and 22 N respectively. Door
required to have fire resistance period installed along accessible routes shall be
opened with horizontal force of not more than 30 N. Closer for interior door
shall have a closing period of at least 3 seconds measured from an open
position of 70° to a point 75 mm from the closed position measured from the
leading edge of the door. Door closing devices include door closer, spring
hinge and floor hinge.

44. Frameless Glass Doors

If frameless glass door is used, it shall be prominently marked so as to make it

visible. The marking shall be placed across on the glass door such that at least
a portion of the marking is placed between 900 mm and 1500 mm above the
finished floor. The colour marking shall also be provided to glass panel adjacent
to the glass door.

45. Automatic Main Entrance Doors

Automatic door shall be provided to one of the main entrances, which is

commonly used by the public, of sports stadium, town hall, civic centre, theatre,
museum, public library, shopping complex, sports complex, public swimming
pool complex, office building, hotel and hospital.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Door may be manually operated without powered assistance, or power

operated under manual or automatic control. An automatically operated
sliding door is a preferred solution for most people as it avoids the risks
associated with automatic swing door and its use can make it possible to
reduce the length of entrance lobbies.

(b) A door fitted with a self-closing device to stand against wind force is
difficult to be openable by many people, particularly those who are
wheelchair users or who have limited strength. Where closing devices are
needed for fire control, the use of electrically powered hold open devices
or swing-free closing devices is appropriate.

(c) All doors should be wide enough to allow unrestricted passage for different
users, including wheelchair users, people carrying luggage and parents
with baby carriages and small children.

58
A. Design Considerations (Cont’d)

(d) Sufficient space alongside the leading edge of a door should be provided
to enable a wheelchair user to reach and grip the door handle, then open
the door without releasing hold on the handle and without the wheelchair
footrest colliding with the return wall.

(e) The presence of door, whether opened or closed, should be apparent to

persons with visual impairment through the careful choice of colour and
materials for the door and its surroundings. Provision of marking on glass
doors would help persons with visual impairment to distinguish obstacles
and passage as well as for public to avoid collision.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

External Doors

(a) External door should be single-action and open outwards to obviate high
tension in spring closers in sustaining wind pressure.

Latched Doors

(b) Where door is latched, lever-type handle should be used.

Kick-plates

(c) All doors which allow the passage of wheelchairs should have kick-plates
of not less than 200 mm high fitted on the face which swings away.

Automatic Door Openers

(d) Other than a domestic building, automatic door openers should be

provided on all entrance doors of a building which are commonly used by
the public, and should:

(i) remain open for a minimum of 5 seconds;

(ii) have a guardrail where it opens into a route of travel (see Figure 23);
(iii) have a sign showing automatic door; and
(iv) be located outside of the door swing.

Sliding automatic door with overhead sensor operating device or manual

large button control should be provided.

59
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 23 – Guardrails at Out-swinging Automatic Doors

Vision Panels

(e) Transparent vision-panel should be provided to door in between

accessible path. The vision-panel should be installed with bottom edge
not more than 1000 mm and top edge not less than 1500 mm above the
finished floor level.

Glass Doors

(f) The leading edge of glass door should be marked to indicate glass.

60
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

(fa) The marking provided at a frameless glass door should consist of at least
a horizontal band with a minimum height of 100 mm and contrasting
colours with the background to assist visibility. The marking including
those in broken or solid lines, patterns or company logos, etc., should
cover at least 10% of the glazing area within the zone between 900 mm
and 1500 mm above the internal finished floor. If the horizontal band
design is not adopted, other types of marking should still be designed
horizontally across the glass door. Such kind of marking should cover at
least 30% of the glazing area within the zone between 900 mm and 1500
mm above the internal finished floor.

Luminous Contrast

(g) Door handle of manually operated doors and control switch or button of
door with powered open devices should have a minimum luminous
contrast of 30% with the background finishes.

Doors to Areas with Accessible Facilities

(h) Fire rated doors leading to areas with accessible facilities should be
provided with hold-open device except for doors to a required staircase
forming part of a protected exit and its protected lobby. Doors not for fire
safety purposes leading to areas with accessible facilities should be
automatic.

Width of Doors

(i) Door, including one leaf of a double-leaf door, should have a clear width of
not less than 850 mm between the open door and opposite jamb or the
other leaf.

Unobstructed Area

(j) An unobstructed area adjacent to the door handle on the leading face of a
single door should not be less than 600 mm in width.

Door Thresholds

(k) Door threshold (see Figure 23A) should have a bevelled and round edge
on each side at a gradient not steeper than 1:2.

Figure 23A – Example of Door Threshold

61
 Division 11 --- TOILETS AND W.C. CUBICLES

This Division explains the requirements to enable persons with a disability,

including wheelchair users to use the facilities provided in a toilet independently
as far as possible. A typical toilet is shown in Figure 24. Different approaches
for transferring the person from a wheelchair to a watercloset are shown in
Figures B5, B6 and B7 in Appendix B.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Sufficient, properly designed and located toilet and W.C. cubicles shall be
available for use by everybody including people of either sex, people with
babies and small children, persons with a disability, wheelchair users and the
elderly and elderly with frailty, etc. with or without any assistance from others.
Space requirements are set to enable a wheelchair user to manoeuvre into
position for frontal, side or diagonal transfer to and from the W.C. seat.

Obligatory Design Requirements

46. Provision of Accessible W.C. Cubicle

There shall be at least one accessible W.C. cubicle on a floor, or in that part of a
floor designed for access by the persons with a disability where the total
number of W.C. cubicles provided on that floor or in that part of a floor is 20 or
less, or 2 where the total number exceeds 20. This paragraph shall not apply to
domestic buildings and the domestic parts of composite buildings or where
there is no toilet provided on the particular floor.

Where the accessible W.C. cubicles are within a toilet with multiple cubicles, the
minimum number of such accessible W.C. cubicles to be provided for each sex
shall be based on the total number of W.C. cubicles for each sex on that floor or
in that part of a floor designed for access by persons with a disability.

The W.C. cubicles required by this Manual shall be deemed to be included in

the number of soil fitments required under the Building (Standards of Sanitary
Fitments, Plumbing, Drainage Works and Latrines) Regulations (Cap. 123 sub.
leg.) and Part VII of the Education Regulations (Cap. 279 sub. leg.).

62
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

47. Accessible Unisex Toilet

Where toilet is provided on a floor, at least one shall be designed as an

accessible unisex sanitary facility for use by persons of both sexes and access
to which does not necessitate traversing an area reserved for one sex only. It
shall be designed for general use and include adequate circulation space for
wheelchair users in accordance with the obligatory requirements as set out in
this Division.

48. Location of Accessible W.C. Cubicle

W.C. cubicles shall be accessible:

(a) directly from a public corridor; and
(b) where situated within a toilet containing other W.C. cubicles, through a
clear space not less than 1500 mm x 1500 mm immediately in front of the
compartment to allow manoeuvrability or by direct approach where no
turning of the wheelchair is necessary.

49. Design of Accessible W.C. Cubicle

The accessible W.C. cubicle shall not be less than 1500 mm x 1750 mm in area
and the clear manoeuvring space within the cubicle shall not be less than 1500
mm x 1500 mm measured at 350 mm above finished floor level and the cubicle
shall have in it a watercloset at a height not less than 380 mm and not more
than 450 mm, measured to the top of the toilet seat. Waterclosets shall be
equipped with a back support such as a seat lid and seats shall not be
spring-actuated.

50. Flushing Controls

Flushing control shall be mounted on the wide side of the cubicle at a height
between 600 mm and 1050 mm above the finished floor level and shall be
hand-operated or automatic. Hand-operated controls shall be capable of being
operated with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting
of the wrist. The force required shall not be greater than 22 N.

51. Wash Basins

The toilet shall be provided with a wash basin mounted with the rim not higher
than 750 mm above the finished floor level. A clearance of 550 mm shall be
maintained from the finished floor level to the bottom of the apron.

Tap for wash basin shall be automatic or of lever control type without spring
loading, subject to the approval of the Water Supplies Department. Tap shall
not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The operating force
required shall not be greater than 22 N.

63
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

52. Toilet/Cubicle Doors

Door shall be installed with push-type or lever-type handles and capable of

being easily opened/closed by one hand. Any door fastening shall be capable
of being released from the outside in the event of an emergency.

No coin box shall be affixed to the door of the cubicle.

53. Grab Rails

There shall be at least two grab rails which shall not be less than 32 mm and not
more than 40 mm in external diameter and shall be fixed on the wall leaving a
grip space of not less than 30 mm clear of the mounting wall. The two grab rails
constructed in one continuous piece is acceptable. The length of grab rail shall
not be less than 600 mm.

There shall be one grab rail fixed on each of both the inner and outer surfaces of
the cubicle door; which shall not be less than 32 mm and not more than 40 mm
in external diameter. The grab rail shall have a grip space of not less than 30
mm clear of each door surface.

There shall be one folding grab rail on the wide side of the cubicle adjacent to
the watercloset at a height between 725 mm and 750 mm above the finished
floor level when lowered from the wall. Simple instructions in English, Chinese
and Braille on how to unfold the rail should be affixed to the wall. The grab rail,
folding grab rail and wash basin shall be capable of carrying a static load of 150
kg.

The grab rail shall not rotate within its fixing fittings.

54. Emergency Call Bell

An emergency call bell complying with Division 17 shall be provided in an

accessible W.C. cubicle.

64
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

55. Urinals

If more than one urinal is provided, at least one urinal shall:

(a) have a clear levelled space of not less than 800 mm wide x 1500 mm
deep in front; and

(b) be wall hung urinal with a front rim not higher than 400 mm, and have
vertical grab rails of not less than 32 mm and not more than 40 mm in
external diameter and of 600 mm length on both sides at a height of 1200
mm above the finished floor level for use by persons with ambulant
disabilities (see Figure 25).

65
 MIRROR FOR
WHEELCHAIR USER

600

1800 (MIN.)
900 - 1050

950 - 1050
750 - 820
725 - 750

725 - 750
600 - 650
380 - 450

600

EMERGENCY ANGLE BETWEEN TWO

CALL BELL GRAB RAILS 80∘- 90∘

FRONT ELEVATION SIDE ELEVATION

1500 ( MIN. )
600
1950 (MIN.)

800 (MIN.)

600

CLEAR MANOEUVRING SPACE SHALL NOT

BE LESS THAN 1500x1500 MEASURED AT
PLAN 350 ABOVE FINISHED FLOOR LEVEL

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

DIMENSIONS PRINTED IN BOLD FORM DENOTE OBLIGATORY DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
DIMENSIONS PRINTED IN ITALIC FORM DENOTE RECOMMENDED DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

(Opposite - Handed Layout is Acceptable)

Figure 24 – Accessible Toilet

66
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 25 – Urinal for Use by Persons with Ambulant Disabilities

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Adequate and convenient provision of toileting facilities commensurate

with the anticipated use by all users either with or without assistance
from others.

(b) Appropriate sanitary accommodation should be available to all,

including persons with ambulant disabilities, wheelchair users, the
elderly and people of either sex with babies and small children.

(c) Provision of a safe environment capable of accommodating the

toileting needs and requirements of persons with a disability or the
elderly.

67
 Design Considerations (Cont’d)

(d) If there is adequate space inside the toilet or cubicle units, double
swing door open both inwards and outwards or sliding door may be
provided to enable assistance during emergency situations.

(da) Power-operated door is considered convenient for persons with a

disability, and a power-operated sliding door is preferable to
power-operated swing door from safety point of view. The swing path
and mechanism of power-operated swing doors should not pose a risk
of colliding with passers-by.

(e) Urinals should be accessible and can be easily found by persons with
visual impairment. The grab rails for aiding the elderly and tactile
surface materials for aiding persons with visual impairment should be
provided.

(f) Accessible unisex toilet facilities can serve both sexes, those with or
without assistance, and accommodate a greater number of users. It is
more easily identified than a facility in a separate-sex toilet and more
likely to be available when required, particularly as the elderly and
some persons with a disability need to use toilets more frequently than
others. In addition, a unisex facility enables assistants of either sex to
assist the user.

(g) There is a tendency for the specification of sanitary fittings and fixtures
to be in white colour to make cleanliness easily observable. Often the
fittings are set against light or white coloured tiling which makes clear
identification difficult for the persons with visual impairment. Sanitary
fittings should have luminous contrast or colour contrast against the
background finishes.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Unisex Facilities

(a) W.C. cubicles should, where possible, be unisex and accessible from a
corridor so that they can be used by either sex with assistance from
members of the opposite sex, if necessary.

(b) If two or more accessible unisex facilities are provided, at least one
should be of opposite handed layout to the other(s).

W.C. Cubicles

(c) The clear distance between the watercloset and the wash basin should
not be more than 600 mm for the users’ convenience after toileting. The
clear manoeuvring space within the cubicle shall not be less than 1500
mm x 1950 mm.

(d) The angle between the two grab rails should be within the range of 80
to 90.

68
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Toilet/Compartment Doors

(e) Double swing doors which open both inwards and outwards may be
provided in any toilets or cubicles. Sliding door fixed with vertical grab
rails on both sides of the door in accordance with paragraph (ea) (viii)
below is equally acceptable provided that it is not heavy or awkward to
use. The requirements of door handle and horizontal grab rail will not
be applicable to sliding doors.

(ea) A power-operated door should be designed as follows:

(i) push pad type control buttons having a minimum dimension of 20

mm should be used to open or lock the door;
(ii) after the door is open, the door should be automatically closed
after a minimum of 10-second time lapse. An audible signal
should be provided to signify the door opening and closing action;
(iii) a detection device should be provided to re-open the door in the
event of hitting any obstacle. The device should be positioned at a
height between 300 mm and 400 mm above the finished floor
level;
(iv) a lock button should be provided inside the toilet. The locking
device should be able to be released from the outside manually
upon activation of an emergency break glass unit installed
between 1800 mm and 2000 mm above the finished floor level
outside the toilet. The maximum horizontal force for opening the
door manually should comply with the requirements stipulated in
paragraph 43 in Division 10;
(v) in case the lock button is pressed before the door-closing action is
complete, the door should still be able to be locked;
(vi) an audible message should be provided in English, Cantonese
and Putonghua to inform the user after the door is locked;
(vii) an indicator activated by the locking device signifying the toilet is
being occupied should be provided both inside and outside the
toilet;
(viii) the door should be provided with vertical grab rails fixed on both
sides of the door at the height of 800 mm from the finished floor
level (measuring from the bottom of the grab rails) and with a grip
space of not less than 30 mm clear of the door. Grab rails should
not be less than 32 mm and not more than 40 mm in external
diameter and not less than 600 mm in length;
(ix) the door including control buttons should have a minimum
luminous contrast of 30% with the door frame and their
surrounding finishes;
(x) a back-up emergency power supply should be provided for at
least 20 minutes in power failure situation;
(xi) the control buttons should be installed at the wall adjacent to the
door opening such that the user will not be interfered by the door
movement. For a door swinging into an area with internal corner,
the buttons should be located at least 600 mm from the internal
corner of a room and the button should have a clear 1000 mm
minimum distance from the swing of the door;
(xii) the control buttons should be located at not less than 900 mm and
not more than 1200 mm above the finished floor level;
69
 Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Toilet/Compartment Doors (Cont’d)

(xiii) separate door open and lock buttons should be provided inside
the toilet and placed together;
(xiv) Braille and tactile marking should be provided to the control
buttons in compliance with the requirements stipulated in
paragraphs 80(5) and 80(6) in Division 19 and Figures 25A and
25B; and
(xv) user instructions in Chinese, English and Braille on how to open
and lock the door should be provided adjacent to the control
buttons inside the toilet.

See examples in Figures 25A to 25D.

Figure 25A – Elevation of Power-operated Sliding Door

(View from Outside of Accessible Toilet)

Figure 25B – Elevation of Power-operated Sliding Door

(View from Inside of Accessible Toilet)
70
Figure 25C – Plan of Power-operated Swing Door
(Control Button(s) on Separate Walls)

Figure 25D – Plan of Power-operated Swing Door

(Control Button(s) on Same Wall)

71
 Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Diaper-changing Facilities

(f) Diaper-changing facilities should be provided in all toilets unless there is

absolutely no sufficient space (see Figure 26).

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 26 – Flap-type Diaper Changing Station

Baby Care Room

(fa) The room should be provided with a clear manoeuvring space not less
than 1500 mm x 1500 mm measured at 350 mm above finished floor
level.

72
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Bathroom/Shower Compartment

(g) The floor of the bathroom and the shower compartment should be
slip-resistant with a minimum “static coefficient of friction” of “Good”
grading (see Appendix C) and self-draining.

Luminous Contrast

(h) Wall tiling should have a minimum luminous contrast of 30% with
sanitary appliances and fittings, grab rails and toilet roll holders, etc.

(ha) Toilet door and compartment door should have a minimum luminous
contrast of 30% with its frame and adjacent wall.

Avoidance of Obstruction

(i) Waste pipe, disposal bins and other fittings within the toilet should be
located to avoid any obstruction or creating a tripping hazard including
those under the wash basin.

(j) Toilets and W.C. cubicles for use by persons with a disability should be
located to avoid proximity to or obstruction by exit doors to the staircase.

Emergency Call Bell

(k) An additional emergency call bell near the toilet seat should be provided,
if practicable.

Large Size Symbols

(l) Large size symbols with luminous contrast for male and female toilets
should be used.

Grab Rails

(m) The surface of the grab rails should be slip-resistant, e.g. stainless steel
with hair-line finish.

Indicating Tiles/Blocks

(n) Two indicating tiles/blocks on the floor to facilitate the use by persons
with visual impairment (see Figures 26A and 26B) should be provided in
front of the urinal for use by persons with ambulant disabilities.

(o) The indicating tiles/blocks should have a minimum luminous contrast of

30% with the floor finishes.

73
 URINAL

VERTICAL VERTICAL
GRAB RAIL GRAB RAIL

INDICATING
150 150
TILES/BLOCKS

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 26A – Indicating Tiles/Blocks for Urinal Used by Persons with

Ambulant Disabilities

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 26B – Details of Indicating Tiles/Blocks

Washroom Accessories

(p) The manually operated controls of washroom accessories should be at a

position which is not higher than 1100 mm above the finished floor level.

74
 Division 12 --- BATHROOMS AND SHOWER COMPARTMENTS

This Division sets out requirements for accessible bathrooms and

shower compartments as required under paragraph 7 in Division 2.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

The accessible bathrooms and shower compartments shall be so

designed and equipped with sanitary fittings and installations to allow
persons with a disability and the elderly to use them without assistance
from others.

Obligatory Design Requirements

56. Bathtubs

(1) There shall be a clear floor space of not less than 1500 mm x 800
mm in front of the bathtub (see Figure 27);
(2) The bathtub shall be provided with a seat of not less than 250 mm
in width (see Figure 27); and
(3) The bathtub shall have a maximum height of 380 mm.

57. Grab Rails for Bathtub

Grab rails shall:

(a) not rotate within their fixing fittings;

(b) have a diameter between 32 mm and 40 mm and have a grip
space of not less than 30 mm clear from the wall;
(c) be at least 900 mm long, installed horizontally or slanting at an
angle not exceeding 20 degrees along the length of the bathtub
and at a height between 150 mm and 300 mm above the rim of
the bathtub ; and
(d) be at least 600 mm long, installed vertically at the plug end of the
bathtub adjacent to the clear floor space with the lower end 150
mm to 300 mm above the rim of the bathtub.

58. Taps and Controls of Bathtub

Taps and other controls shall:

(a) have lever type handles at least 75 mm long from the centre of
rotation to the handle tip;
(b) be installed at the plug end of the bathtub; and
(c) be not more than 450 mm above the rim of the bathtub.

75
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

59. Shower Heads

(1) Shower heads shall:

(a) be of the hand-held type;

(b) be provided with a hose not less than 1500 mm in length; and
(c) be provided with a wall mounting bracket to allow use in a
fixed position.

(2) Where shower heads are mounted on a vertical bar, the bar shall:

(a) have a minimum length of 500 mm with the lower end not less
than 450 mm above the finished floor level;
(b) be installed so as not to obstruct the use of grab rails referred
to in paragraph 57; and
(c) be so mounted to be able to carry a static load of 150kg in
case they are mistakenly used as a grab rail.

60. Shower Compartments

Shower compartments shall have internal dimensions of not less than

1500 mm x 900 mm. The minimum clear floor space in front of the
shower entrance shall be 1500 mm x 800 mm with the 1500 mm
dimension parallel to the shower entrance.

61. Grab Rails for Shower Compartments

Grab rails for shower compartments shall:

(a) comply with paragraph 57 (a) and (b);

(b) be L-shaped or two bars arranged in L-shaped configuration and
not be less than 750 mm by 900 mm in length;
(c) be installed at a height between 700 mm and 800 mm from the
shower floor; and
(d) be capable of carrying a static load of 150kg.

62. Thresholds

Thresholds for roll-in shower compartments shall:

(a) not be more than 13 mm high; and

(b) have bevelled edges.

76
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

63. Shower Seats

The shower seats shall:

(a) have a rounded edge and be self-draining;

(b) be installed on the wall next to the taps and controls;
(c) not be less than 550 mm in width and 400 mm in depth; and
(d) be installed at a height between 430 mm and 480 mm from the
top of the seat to the finished floor level.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

Wheelchair users generally require larger space for access to the

bathrooms. A proportion of guest rooms should be designed to
accommodate the need of wheelchair users.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Taps and Controls

(a) Taps and other controls should be installed between the centre
line and the outer edge of the bathtub.

Grab Rails

(b) The surface of the grab rails should be slip-resistant, e.g. stainless
steel with hair-line finish.

(c) Two additional vertical grab rails should be installed for shower
compartments and they should:
(i) have a minimum length of 750 mm;
(ii) be installed at a height between 700 mm and 800 mm
measured from the bottom of the bars to the finished floor
level; and
(iii) be provided adjacent to the shower seat such that one is
mounted beside the shower seat and another one is
mounted not more than 450 mm from the edge of the
shower seat (see Figure 27).

Shower Seats

(d) The depth of shower seats in shower compartments should be

450 mm.

77
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Emergency Call Bells in Accessible Bathrooms and Shower

Compartments

(e) The push button of the emergency call bell should be

appropriately located and conveniently accessible to all users.
The emergency call bell when activated should emit audible or
visible alarm signal which should be readily noticeable for
summoning assistance for the person in the bathroom/shower
compartment. The emergency alarm should be installed outside
the bathroom/shower compartment and connected to a public
information or service counter.

(f) An emergency call bell should be equipped with a weatherproof

push button for activating the alarm. The push button should be
installed at the wall outside but immediately adjacent to the
bathtub or shower compartment at a height between 400 mm and
600 mm above the finished floor level. A notice “Emergency Call”
in English, Chinese and Braille shall be fitted next to the
emergency push button.

78
 VERTICAL GRAB
RAIL
100mm (MAX.) (a) BATHROOM
FROM BATHTUB
RIM
150-300 600 (MIN.)

150-300
ADJUSTABLE
SHOWER HEAD
450mm (MIN.)
AND
850mm (MAX.)
ABOVE FLOOR
LEVEL 380(MAX.)

(b) SHOWER
COMPARTMENT
750 (MIN.) #
750 (MIN.) #

ADJUSTABLE
SHOWER
700 – 800 #
700 – 800
430 – 480

HEAD
700 – 800 #

750-1300mm
ABOVE FLOOR
LEVEL

13mm (MAX.) THK.

THRESHOLD

# VERTICAL GRAB RAILS AND SEAT DEPTH UNDER

RECOMMENDED DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

* ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

DIMENSIONS PRINTED IN BOLD FORM DENOTE OBLIGATORY DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
DIMENSIONS PRINTED IN ITALIC FORM DENOTE RECOMMENDED DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Figure 27 - Examples of Bathroom and Shower Compartment

79
 Division 13 --- SIGNS

It is essential that suitable signs are erected at prominent and conspicuous

positions inside and outside a building to indicate clearly the exact locations of
facilities that are available for use by persons with a disability. To design an
effective signage system, the needs of different types of users in a building and
the complexity of the building layout must be considered.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Signs shall give clear directions, information and instructions for the users of the
building.

Obligatory Design Requirements

Signs shall be erected to indicate clearly the exact locations of facilities

available for use by persons with a disability.

64. The International Symbol of Accessibility

The international symbol of accessibility shall be the wheelchair figure in white

on a blue background and is to be provided at conspicuous location as shown
in Figure 28 for the purposes of identifying/advertising/signifying:

(a) accessible entrance to the building;

(b) accessible exit from the building;
(c) reserved car parking facilities for persons with a disability;
(d) the location of toilets for persons with a disability;
(e) usable vertical circulation facilities;
(f) usable cloakroom facilities; and
(g) the availability of special services of information/service counter and
telephone in the building.

GRIDLINES
Gridlines areARE SHOWN TO DEFINE
THE PROPORTION
provided to how ONLY
th ti l

Figure 28 – Proportional Layout for International Symbol of Accessibility

80
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

65. Directional Signs

Directional arrows and visual information shall be provided at conspicuous

location in conjunction with the international symbol for accessibility to guide
persons with a disability to the exact locations of the accessible facilities (see
Figure 29).

DIRECTION IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

(A) EXAMPLE OF A SIGN IDENTIFYING A FACILITY AND INDICATING ITS

DIRECTION USING A STANDARD SYMBOL [LIFT]

戲 院
Theatre
DIRECTION IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

(B) EXAMPLE OF A SIGN IDENTIFYING A FACILITY AND INDICATING ITS

DIRECTION USING A WORD

Figure 29 – Directional Signs

66. Size

The height of signs shall be not less than the following:

(a) 60 mm for doors;

(b) 110 mm for corridors; and
(c) 200 mm for external use.

81
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

67. Sign for Persons with Hearing Impairment

International symbol of access for hearing loss as shown in Figure 30 shall be

provided if there is an assistive listening system provided for persons with
hearing impairment.

GRIDLINES ARE SHOWN TO SHOW

THE PROPORTION ONLY

Figure 30 – Proportional Layout for International Symbol of Access for

Hearing Loss

82
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

68. Braille and Tactile Sign

(1)&(2) Braille and tactile signs shall be installed on adjacent wall or door of
public toilet to indicate whether the toilet is for male, female or unisex.
The signs shall be placed at 900 mm to 1500 mm above the finished
floor level. Specifications of Braille cells and tactile signs are shown in
Figure 31.

(3) If there is no door, the sign shall be provided on the wall in front of the
toilets.

(4)&(5) A Braille and tactile fire exit map as shown in Figure 32 shall be
provided directly above the call button of the accessible lift in the lobby
of the accessible lift in a building if a fire exit map for the use of the
public is provided. The map shall be placed at 800 mm to 1200 mm
above the finished floor level.

Figure 31 – Specifications of Braille Cells and Tactile Signs

83
 (+0 mm) Base Plate

(+4 mm)

(+4 mm)

(+2 mm) Other Tactile Features

Figure 32 – Braille and Tactile Fire Exit Map

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

Persons with visual impairment may have difficulty in identifying their locker for
public use, and sanitary fitments in a public toilet or changing room.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

(a) Each locker door in a sports complex, public swimming pool complex or
public area should be provided with the locker number in Braille and
raised Arabic numerals/characters*.

* The locker key holders should be provided with raised Arabic

numerals/characters.

(b) A Braille and tactile plan (see Figure 32A) should be provided for the
toilets with five or more waterclosets (urinal in a public male toilet and
changing room is regarded as a watercloset for this purpose) in a public
toilet/changing room. The plan should be installed on the wall adjacent to
the door of the public toilet/changing room, or their entrance if entrance
door is not provided. The plan should be placed at 900 mm to 1500 mm
above the finished floor level.

84
Watercloset

Figure 32A – Example of Braille and Tactile Plan of Toilet and Changing Room

85
Division 14 -- Special Obligatory Design Requirements to Assist Persons with
Visual/Hearing Impairment to Various Uses of Buildings in Table 2

69. Special Design Requirements to assist persons with visual or hearing

impairment

(1) This paragraph applies to any part of a building used for the purposes as
specified in Table 2 in Chapter 2.

(2) If a floor plan for the use of the public is provided, Braille and tactile floor
plan showing the main entrance, public toilet and major common facilities
shall be provided in a place in that building which is conspicuous to
persons with visual impairment.

(3) Tactile guide path shall be installed from a point of access at the lot
boundary to the main entrance of the building and from the main entrance
to lift zone, the nearest accessible toilet, public information/service counter,
Braille and tactile floor plan and staircase as illustrated in Figures 33, 34
and 35 respectively.

(4) If visual display board (such as LED) is provided, it shall be able to display
the essence of the information broadcasted by the public address system
in the building. Examples include display boards to inform travellers of the
arrival and destination of the MTR trains.

86
 TACTILE
POSITIONAL
TILE/BLOCK WITH
RAISED DOTS OF
NOMINAL 23mm
DIAMETER AT BASE

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 33 – Tactile Guide Path to Lift Zone

87
 TACTILE POSITIONAL
TILE/BLOCK WITH RAISED
DOTS OF NOMINAL 23mm
DIAMETER AT BASE

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 34 – Tactile Guide Path to Information/Service Counter

TACTILEPOSITIONAL
TILE/BLOCKWITHRAISED
DOTSOFNOMINAL 23mm
DIAMETER AT BASE

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 35 – Tactile Guide Path to Tactile/Braille Directory Map/Floor Plan

88
 TACTILE WARNING
(PASSENGER CONVEYOR) TILE/BLOCK WITH
RAISED DOTS OF
NOMINAL 35mm
DIAMETER AT BASE

(PASSENGER CONVEYOR)

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 36 – Tactile Warning Strip to Escalator or Passenger Conveyor

89
 BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Signs should be clear and easy to read and understand in order to assist
persons with intellectual, cognitive and sensory disabilities.

(b) International symbols are to be used for purpose of standardization and

apprehension by all persons with a disability residing in Hong Kong or
visiting from overseas. Examples of standard public information symbols
are shown in Figure 37.

(c) Prominent signs with high color and luminous contrasts as well as special
shapes are recommended to be used for the elderly.

(d) Safety for persons with visual impairment should be considered.

Information such as distance to the destination, name of building etc.
should be conveyed to the persons with visual impairment. The
suggested provisions are voice message, Braille and signs with high
luminous contrast.

(e) To account for persons with visual impairment, larger fonts, more
prominent and well-defined shapes of signs are recommended.

(f) For categories of buildings as required in Table 2 in Chapter 2, tactile

guide paths should be provided for persons with visual impairment from
the main entrance to lift zone, public information/service counter, Braille
and tactile floor plan, and staircase/escalator provided with audible
signals. Braille and tactile floor plan showing the locations of major
common facilities should be provided in a location in that building which is
conspicuous to persons with visual impairment.

(fa) For any part of a building used for the purposes as office, hotel,
guesthouse, hostel or bank, a tactile guide path should be installed from
the main entrance of the building to lift zone, the nearest accessible toilet,
public information/service counter, Braille and tactile floor plan, and
staircase.

(g) Braille Characters in both English and Chinese should be provided on

signs as far as possible if space could accommodate them.

90
 Figure 37 — Examples of Public Information Symbols

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Location

(a) Sign should be erected to indicate clearly the locations of accessible

routes through the building.

Luminous Contrast

(b) Luminous contrast of not less than 70% should be provided to differentiate
the international symbol of accessibility from the background, either
light-on-dark or dark-on-light. The commonly employed colours are white
for the wheelchair figure and blue for the background.

91
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Lettering and Colour

(c) Lettering should be plain and legible, e.g. Helvetica (medium) using lower
case letters except for initial capitals.

(d) Corners of sign should be rounded.

(e) Chinese characters should be legible e.g. “Haak Tai” style.

(f) Sign should be in raised characters.

(g) The system of sign used should be clear and consistent.

Braille and Tactile Sign/Audible Sign

(h) Braille and tactile building name and address (i.e., street name with
number) or a device which when activated will provide the same
information in audible form should be provided on both sides of the
building entrance at a height of between 900 mm and 1500 mm above the
finished floor level.

(i) If public address system is provided to convey information to the public in

a building, then a means of conveying the same or equivalent information
to persons with hearing impairment should also be provided.

(j) If a floor plan for the use of the public is provided, Braille and tactile floor
plan with audible device indicating the main entrance, public toilet and
major common facilities should be provided in a place in that building
which is conspicuous to persons with visual impairment.

(ja) The Braille and tactile sign for public toilet required under paragraph 68(1)
and (2) in Division 13 should be installed on the wall adjacent to the open
side of the toilet door or toilet entrance if toilet door is not provided.

Visual Sign

(k) Visual display board (such as LED) should be provided in public waiting
areas other than those required in Table 2 in Chapter 2 and where there is
an announcer installed to regularly convey information to the people
inside. The visual display board should be able to display the essence of
the information so announced.

92
Division 15 --- PUBLIC INFORMATION OR SERVICE COUNTERS

Information/service counters refer to provisions for assistance in a building

where the public or a section of the public is likely to approach to seek services
and/or information.

MANDATORY SECTION

Obligatory Design Requirements

70. Provision of Public Information or Service Counters

(1) Public information/service counters shall be provided to various

categories of buildings as specified in Table 2 in Chapter 2.

(2)(a) There shall be at least one public information/service counter built with
a portion not higher than 750 mm above the finished floor level and not
less than 750 mm wide to assist wheelchair users (see Figures 38 and
39).

(b) There shall be at least one public information/service counter provided

with an assistive listening system where the background is noisy or
counters are provided with screen.

71. Design of Counter

(1) Where public information/service counters are provided, they shall be

accessible and easily identifiable from a building entrance by all
persons with or without a disability.

(2) Leg space of a depth between 400 mm and 600 mm and a height of not
less than 680 mm above finished floor level shall be provided.

93
 400-600

680 (MIN.)
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 38 - Front View of Information/Service Counter for Wheelchair Users

94
*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 39 – Key Heights of Counters and Reception Desks

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) The approach to the counter should be direct, clear and unobstructed.

(b) Signs associated with counters should be located and visible to

wheelchair users.

(c) Counters should be located away from the entrance if disturbance of

noise from external is anticipated.

(d) Provision of permanent or temporary control barriers for queuing

should allow space for manoeuvring of wheelchairs.

(e) For the convenience of the people using sticks, a recess should be
provided to the information/service counter for them to place the
assistive tools.

95
B. Recommended Design Requirements

Leg space of a depth between 480 mm and 600 mm should be provided for
public information or service counters.

96
 Division 16 --- ILLUMINATION

This Division sets out the requirements for lighting provisions.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Sufficient level of illumination shall be provided in order to help people to

apprehend the physical environment of the space they have entered or to move
around safely.

Obligatory Design Requirements

72. General Illumination Level

The following designated areas of a building, where reasonably expected to be

used by the public or occupants of the building during the period of normal use
or occupation or when required, shall have minimum illumination level
measured at the finished floor level along the centre line of the passageway as
follows:

Ground floor entrance lobby and lift 120 lux

Lift lobby of upper floors, corridors, accessible 85 lux
paths and stairscases

73. Illumination Level for Signs

Signs provided under Division 13 shall have illumination level on the sign
surface of not less than 120 lux.

74. Means of Provision of Illumination

The illumination may be provided through automatic or manual switching

devices.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Artificial lighting should be designed to give uniform illumination and good
colour rendering of all surfaces, without creating glare, or pools of bright
light and strong shadows.
(b) Where appropriate, lighting should be so designed to illuminate the face of
a person speaking in order to make communication easier.

97
A. Design Considerations (Cont’d)

(c) To enhance the illumination level of the lift lobby of upper floors, corridors,
accessible paths and staircases, additional lighting to be provided may be
activated by sensors. The following factors should be considered in
setting the duration of such sensors:

(i) length of the corridors and paths; and

(ii) walking speed of the persons with visual impairment, other forms of
physical infirmities, etc.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Common Areas

(a) Common areas, including toilets, of a building should have an illumination

level of not less than 120 lux measured at the finished floor level.

(aa) Lift lobby of upper floors, corridors, accessible paths and staircases should
have an illumination level of not less than 120 lux measured at the finished
floor level. Such enhanced illumination may be provided by additional
lighting activated by sensors.

Lighting for Steps

(b) Lighting with lower illumination level should be provided at the entrances
and exits to provide a contrast between the treads and the risers.

Illumination Level

(c) Uniformity of illumination level should be maintained throughout the

designated areas and toilets.

(d) Higher illumination level at the entrance doors to flats and the exit doors
should be provided.

98
Division 17 --- EMERGENCY CALL BELLS IN ACCESSIBLE TOILETS

This Division sets out the requirements for provision of emergency call bell in
accessible toilets.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

75. Emergency Call Bells in Accessible Toilets

The push button of the emergency call bell shall be appropriately located and
conveniently accessible to all users. The emergency call bell when activated
shall emit audible or visible alarm signal which shall be readily noticeable for
summoning assistance for the person in the accessible toilet. The alarm shall
be installed outside the toilet or a buzzer shall be fitted in the caretaker’s office
(see Figure 24).

Obligatory Design Requirements

76. Push Button for Emergency Call Bell

An emergency call bell shall be equipped with a weatherproof push button for
activating the alarm. The push button shall be installed below the vertical grab
rail inside the W.C. cubicle adjacent to the water closet at a height between 600
mm and 650 mm above the finished floor level. A notice “Emergency Call” in
both English, Chinese and Braille shall be fitted next to the emergency push
button.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) A push button should be easily operated and be provided in any individual
accessible toilet compartment or a water closet cubicle designed for the
persons with a disability to summon assistance at seated position or on the
floor when the person has fallen accidentally. The call button, sometimes
equipped with a pull cord of a length between 700 mm and 750 mm should
be suitably positioned and reachable not more than 300 mm from floor
level.

(b) In addition to a position outside the compartment or cubicle, the

emergency alarm should be connected to a caretaker’s office or public
information/service counter provided under paragraph 70 in Division 15.

(c) Emergency call bells should be equipped with a back-up power supply.

99
B. Recommended Design Requirements

(a) The emergency call bell when activated should emit audible and visible
alarm signal which should be readily noticeable for summoning assistance.

(b) Visible and audible signal should be emitted inside the accessible toilet
when the emergency call bell is activated.

100
 Division 18 --- ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM

An assistive listening system is a system which enables sound signals

to be transmitted to persons with hearing impairment without
interference from background noise or excessive reverberation

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

In order to obtain the full benefit of attending public performances or

taking part in discussions, a person with hearing impairment needs to
receive a signal that is amplified in both volume and signal to noise
ratio.

Obligatory Design Requirements

77. Assistive Listening System

An assistive listening system (such as an induction loop system or an

infrared system) shall be provided in:

(a) at least one of the public information/service counters, if any, for

various categories of buildings as specified in Table 2 in Chapter
2; and
(b) the hall and auditorium, if any, of such a building.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) An assistive listening system amplifies audible communication,

and can be used by persons with hearing aids. It does not interfere
with the listening of people with normal hearing.

(b) The three assistive listening systems commonly used to provide

this enhanced level of sound are induction loop, infrared and radio
frequency systems. A decision on which system to use will depend
on a number of factors, such as the size and use of the space,
external interferences and building materials used.

(c) Special-purpose receivers are required by infrared and radio

frequency systems while hearing aids equipped with a T-switch
are capable of receiving the signal from an induction loop system.
Designers should seek expert advice concerning the most
appropriate system for their purposes.

101
B. Recommended Design Requirements

Coverage

The assistive listening system must be available to cover not less than
70% of the floor area of the room or space served by the system. If a
system requiring the use of receivers or the like is adopted, a minimum
of 2 receivers should be provided. The number of receivers provided
must be not less than 1 for every 50 persons (or part thereof).

102
 Division 19 --- LIFTS

Lift provides means of vertical transportation to any user of the

building to move from one floor to another.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Where a lift is provided, appropriate provision shall be made for all

people to travel vertically within the buildings conveniently and
independently to other storeys and to make use of all relevant facilities.

Obligatory Design Requirements

78. Special Requirements for Accessible Lifts

(1) Every floor of a building shall be accessible by at least one

passenger lift which shall fully comply with all the obligatory
design requirements as stipulated in this section and have
direct access to main lift lobby.

All other passenger lifts in the building must comply with

paragraphs 79 & 80.

A lift shall have minimum internal car dimensions of

1200 mm x 1100 mm wide, with a minimum clear entrance
width of 850 mm, and shall have handrails extending to within
150 mm of the corners at the rear and sides of the car. The
top of the gripping surface of the handrails shall be at a height
of 850 mm to 950 mm, with a space of 30 mm to 50 mm
between the handrails and wall (see Figure 40).

(2) Where there are more than three lifts in a building, access shall
be provided to every floor by at least one lift having minimum
internal car dimensions of 1500 mm x 1400 mm (either wide or
deep) with a minimum clear entrance width of 850 mm.

103
 NOTE: WHERE THE NUMBER OF LIFTS IN A BUILDING EXCEEDS 3, AT LEAST 1 LIFT
SHALL HAVE MINIMUM INTERNAL CAR DIMENSIONS OF 1500mm X 1400mm

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 40 – Accessible Lift

104
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

79. Lift Doors

(1) Lift car doors and landing doors shall be of the horizontally
sliding type, power-operated and automatically controlled.

(2) An audible signal shall be provided to signify the closing of

the doors to alert persons.

(3) A detection device shall be provided to re-open the lift doors in

the event of hitting any obstacle.

(4) The detection device shall be positioned at a height of

between 500 mm and 600 mm above the floor of the lift car.

80. Lift Control Buttons

(1) Essential lift control buttons including floor numbering buttons,

emergency alarm push button and door opening push button
in the lift car shall not be less than 900 mm and not more than
1200 mm above the floor of the car.

(2) Lift call buttons at the lift halls shall not be less than 900 mm
and not more than 1200 mm above the floor of the finished
floor level of the lift hall.

(3) Provision of secondary control panel for over-spilled floor

numbering buttons is always acceptable.

(4) All lift control buttons shall have a minimum dimension of 20

mm (see Figure 41).

(5) Braille and tactile markings shall be placed either on or to the

left of the control buttons.

(6) Such Braille and tactile markings shall be in Arabic numerals

and/or symbols. Tactile markings shall have a minimum
dimension of 15 mm high and be raised 1 mm minimum.

(7) The tactile marking of the push buttons for the main entrance
floor shall be identified with a symbol in a star shape (see
Figure 41).

(8) The emergency alarm push button shall be in a tactile bell

shape (see Figure 41).

105
Figure 41 – Tactile Graphic for Lift Control Buttons

106
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Emergency Call Button in Lifts

(i) An emergency alarm push button together with a buzzer, an

indication light for acknowledgement and an intercom shall be
provided in each lift car and be connected to the building
management office or the caretaker’s office. The building
management office or the caretaker’s office shall be equipped
with a buzzer, indication light(s) (one for each lift) and an
intercom connected to the lift car(s).

(ii) The indication light for acknowledgement shall be in the form of

a blinking light adjacent to the intercom speaker and a notice
“When light blinks, it indicates your emergency call has already
been received. Please be patient and wait for the rescue.” in
English and Chinese shall be provided next to the blinking light.
This system shall be powered by an emergency electricity
supply system in the event of power failure.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Lifts can help to provide access to storeys above or below the
main entrance level. If designed appropriately, lifts are the
most convenient form of vertical access for persons with a
disability. However, given the space constraints in some
buildings, it may not always be possible to install the type and
size of passenger lift that would be suitable for use by all, and
other options may need to be considered to provide for users
with ambulant impairments.

(b) Lift controls should be installed at the position which is within

reach of all users including wheelchair users.

(ba) Keypad control device should be avoided as far as practicable.

(c) A wheelchair user needs sufficient space and time to enter and
leave a passenger lift, particularly when sharing it with other
people. Lift sizes should therefore be chosen to suit the
anticipated frequency of use of the building and the needs of
persons with a disability.

(d) Lift door systems should be designed to allow adequate time

for passage of persons with a disability and the elderly.

107
 Design Considerations (Cont’d)

(e) The use of visually and acoustically reflective wall surfaces can
cause discomfort for persons with visual and hearing
impairment.

(f) For lifts of the size that does not allow a wheelchair user to turn
around within the lift car, mirror should be installed with the
bottom edge to be set at 900 mm above the floor level in the lift
car to facilitate a wheelchair user in reversing and to see which
level the lift has reached.

(g) Where planning allows, lift cars may be provided with opposing
doors to allow a wheelchair user to leave without having to
reverse.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Lift Control Buttons

(a) The graphics for tactile markings for open-door and close-door
push buttons, emergency alarm button, and main entrance
level are shown in Figure 41 for reference.

(b) Call button panels should be provided at both sides of door

openings.

(ba) In addition to the essential lift control buttons required under

paragraph 80(1), another set of essential lift control buttons
should be installed on one of the side walls of lift car,
preferably in the middle and on the right side from the entering
direction. For two lift door openings design, the additional set
of essential lift control buttons should be on any side wall.

(bb) Lift control buttons in lift cars should have a minimum luminous
contrasts of 50% with the background surfaces.

Keypad design

(c) In cases where difficulties are encountered to fully comply with

the obligatory requirements of installation of lift control buttons
in high-rise buildings, keypad control device in conjunction with
a conventional lift control panels in lifts for persons with a
disability should be provided. Proposed standardized
positions of buttons for keypad control device are shown in
Figure 42 for reference.

108
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Keypad design (Cont’d)

The keypad should:

(i) have control buttons of minimum dimension of 20 mm;

(ii) have Braille and tactile markings following the standard
as stipulated in paragraphs 80(6) and 80(8);
(iii) be installed between 900 mm and 1200 mm from
finished floor level of the lift car;
(iv) have adequate luminous contrast between the tactile
markings on the buttons and the background;
(v) have voice announcement and visual indication of the
floors registered; and
(vi) have instruction for the keypad control panel in the form
of Braille or voice announcement beside the panel.

Figure 42 – Proposed Standardised Position of Buttons for Keypad

Control Device

109
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Illumination Level

(d) The level of illumination at the car controls, platform, car

threshold, landing sill and lift landing shall be 150 lux minimum.

Wheelchair Turning Space

(e) An unobstructed wheelchair turning space of 1500 mm x 1500

mm should be provided in front of accessible lift car door.

Lift Doors

(f) The minimum time for lift doors to remain fully open at a
landing should be 3 seconds.

(g) An additional detection device positioned at a height of 200

mm above the floor of the lift car should be provided.

Depth of Accessible Lift Car

(h) The clear depth of an accessible lift car should be not less
than 1500 mm.

Mirror in Accessible Lift Car

(i) A non-breakable mirror or mirror-like surface should be

provided inside an accessible lift car to allow visual feedback
for wheelchair users when reversing backwards into the lift
lobby. Such provision should have a clear width not less than
850 mm and its bottom and top edges should be not more
than 300 mm and not less than 1800 mm above the floor of
the lift car respectively.

110
INDICATION AND NOTIFICATION FOR LIFTS COMPLYING WITH DIVISION 19

The requirements for indication and notification to be provided in

respect of accessible lifts are set out in paragraphs 81 to 83.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

Indication and notification shall be provided to give audible and visual

information to enable all persons with a disability to call and use the
lift facilities conveniently and independently.

Obligatory Design Requirements

81. Indication and Notification for Accessible Lifts

An illuminated visual indicator and an audible signal shall be provided

at the lift entrance to indicate the arrival of the lift car and its direction
of travel. The audible signal shall sound once for UP direction and
twice for DOWN direction, and shall be activated before the arrival of
the lift. The audible signal can be broadcasted from a device in the lift
car as an alternative provided it can be heard from the lift lobby.

Tactile and Braille floor designations shall be provided on the jambs

on both sides of each lift entrance, by means of Arabic numerals,
minimum 60 mm high, raised 1 mm, and at 1200 mm above the
finished floor level.

82. Indication in Accessible Lift Cars

(1) Illuminated visual indicators shall be provided to indicate the

direction of travel and the position of the car.

(2) Characters on the position indicator shall have a minimum

height of 50 mm.

(3) An audio indication of the stopping floor shall be provided in

English, Cantonese and Putonghua.

83. Identification of Accessible Lifts in Lift Lobbies

(1) If a building contains some lifts that do not comply with

Division 19, then each of those lifts that do comply shall be
identified at each landing served, by not less than one
international symbol for accessibility.

111
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

(2) If all the lifts in a building comply with Division 19 (including a

building with only one lift), then at least one international
symbol for accessibility shall be provided at each lift lobby on
the entrance levels of the building.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Signs indicating the location of an accessible lift should be

clearly visible from the main entrance of the building.
Additionally, a sign identifying the floor reached should be
provided on each landing in a location that can be easily seen
from the lift and is designed in luminous contrasts with its
surroundings.

(b) The audio indication of the stopping floor should be clear and
without background noise.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Tactile Warning

(a) Tactile warning tiles should be placed in front of the lift door of
the accessible lift complying with Division 19 at each landing
for ease of identification by persons with visual impairment.

Control

(b) A separate call button for the accessible lift complying with
Division 19 should be installed on each floor to ensure that the
accessible lift will stop at the called floor. Priority of attendance
to call for the accessible lift should be given to this button.

112
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Destination Control System

(ba) As an alternative to providing lift control buttons inside the lift

car as stipulated in paragraph 80(1), the adoption of a
Destination Control System (DCS) should comply with the
following:

(i) The keypad control of the DCS to be installed in a

conspicuous place in the lift hall should have the built-in
design for the use of persons with a disability.
(ii) The keypad should be of standard telephone keypad
type with raised dot for easy orientation at number 5 key.
An appropriate Braille notice “lift button for the visually
impaired” should be provided.
(iii) The keypad should have an “international wheelchair”
button to activate the system specially designed for the
persons with a disability and a push button with a symbol
in a “star” shape for identifying the main entrance floor
for the use of visually impaired users.
(iv) Tactile Arabic numerals with suitable design (e.g. 15 mm
high) and normally engraved by 1 mm instead of Braille
should be provided on the keypad.
(v) The user should be able to know that the DCS has been
operated. The call registration should be confirmed by a
visible and audible signal. The audible signal should be
given on every individual call registration even if the call
is already registered. Also, a speech output system (in
Cantonese, Putonghua and English) of the keypad for
verification of the designated floor should be provided.
(vi) All essential buttons including emergency alarm push
button, intercom controls, and the door opening push
button should be provided inside the lift car.
(vii) The keypad at the lift hall and all the essential buttons in
the lift car should be located between 900 mm and 1200
mm above the finished floor level of the lift hall or the
floor of the lift car in compliance with paragraph 80(2) in
Division 19.
(viii) The design of the keypad should comply with the
international standards for the use of persons with a
disability such as the European Standard EN 81-70:2018,
Safety rules for the construction and installations of lifts -
Particular applications for passenger and goods
passenger lifts - Part 70: Accessibility to lifts for persons
including persons with disability. Adequate signal and
indication for use should be provided including an
illuminated visual indicator and an audible signal.

113
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Destination Control System (Cont’d)

(ix) Braille and tactile plate indicating the user’s instruction

should be mounted on the wall adjacent to the keypad
reachable by the visually impaired users. The instruction
should be in both English and Chinese.
(x) When the “wheelchair” button is pushed, the gong sound
and voice announcement (in Cantonese, Putonghua and
English) will be activated on the arrival of the accessible
lift. To allow the persons with a disability to catch the lift,
time allowed for keeping the lift door open and the
response time for the keypad should be suitably
extended.
(xi) Tactile guide path should be provided to guide the
visually impaired users to the keypad in the lift hall and
then to the designated accessible lift.

Indication in Lift Cars

(c) The visual indicators and audio indication required under

paragraph 82 should be provided in all other passenger lift
cars.

(d) The voice for audio indication in passenger lifts should be

more than 10 dB and should not be more than 80 dB above
ambient level, measured at the annunciator. The voice should
have a frequency between 300 Hz and 3000 Hz.

Visual Communication System

(e) A visual communication system such as the provision of

monitor for video call in the lift car should be provided to all
passenger lifts to assist persons with hearing impairment in lift
car to communicate with the building management office or the
caretaker’s office in emergency situation.

114
Division 20 --- ESCALATORS AND PASSENGER CONVEYORS

Escalators and passenger conveyors provide means of vertical and

horizontal transportation within a building respectively.

MANDATORY SECTION

Performance Objectives

84. Requirements for Escalators and Passenger Conveyors

Escalators or passenger conveyors are not considered part of a

barrier-free route of travel. However, adequate warning or guarding
shall be provided alongside and at each end of the escalators and
passenger conveyors for the safety of persons with visual impairment.

Obligatory Design Requirements

85. Tactile Warning Strips

(1) Tactile warning strips shall be provided at both bottom and top
ends of an escalator. The provision of tactile warning strips is
illustrated in Figure 36.

(2) Tactile warning strips shall be provided at both ends of a

passenger conveyor. The provision of tactile warning strips is
illustrated in Figure 36.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Escalator can be a useful addition to stair and lift where

significant height difference has to be negotiated, but it should
be designed with slower speed for the safety use by persons
with visual impairment and the elderly.

(b) The angle of inclination of escalator should not exceed 30.

(c) Adequate distance for horizontal movement of steps is

required at the top and bottom of escalator to ensure that
passengers – especially those leaving the escalator – have
adequate space and time to board and alight safely.

115
 Design Considerations (Cont’d)

(d) Step edge should be clearly defined with colour in sufficient

luminous contrast with the background, e.g. yellow colour
against dark grey steps.

(e) Moving handrail should be in luminous contrast with the

background.

(f) Passenger conveyor may be used when there is substantial

traveling distance between pedestrian entrance and vehicular
access point, e.g. in an airport terminal. It is mechanically
similar to escalator which may be level or inclined.

(g) The same principles of luminous contrast as for escalator

should apply to passenger conveyor.

(h) There must always be an alternative pedestrian route provided.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Audio Indicator

(a) For escalator and passenger conveyor, clear signal or

indication for going up/down or moving forward should be
provided on both ends, e.g. consistent clear sound or signals.

Alternative Access

(b) Where there is an accessible lift that provides alternative

access route for persons with a disability, it should be near to,
and clearly shown by a sign posted at the entry to the
escalator.

116
 CHAPTER 5

BUILDING SERVICES DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

5.1 SWITCHES AND CONTROLS

This paragraph is applicable to operable part of controls such as electrical

switches, wall socket outlets and controls of other electrical and mechanical
equipment.

Switches, socket outlets and controls for lighting and other equipment shall be
located so that they are easily reachable for all users.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Ease of operation, visibility, reachable height and free from obstruction are
key factors that affect the use of building services by persons with a
disability.
(b) All outlets, switches and controls should be positioned consistently in
relation to doorways and corners within a building and in a logical
sequence of passage through the building.
(c) Switches close to the floor or skirting are difficult to reach and dangerous
because the users have to stoop or kneel to operate them. The higher the
socket outlet, the easier it is to push in or pull out the plug. However, there
may be exceptions to height requirements for some socket outlets, e.g.
those set into the raised flooring in open plan offices.
(d) Operation of controls intended to be used by persons with a disability
should not require the use of both hands simultaneously.
(e) To cater for persons with visual impairment, controls should be in colour
and luminous contrast with the background, and with embossed
information on them for tactile reading.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Positioning

(a) Except as otherwise provided in Division 19 for lifts, the controls for the
operation of building services or safety devices including electrical
switches, light switches, thermostats, intercom switches and card reading
machines which are intended to be accessible to wheelchair users should
be located between 450 mm and 1200 mm above the finished floor level
(see Figure 43).

117
 Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Positioning (Cont’d)

(b) Electric sockets should be located not lower than 450 mm above the
finished floor level.

Luminous Contrast

(c) Light switches and socket outlets should have a minimum luminous
contrast of 30% with their background to indicate their locations.

Controls

(d) Controls should:

(i) have a minimum luminous contrast of 30% with the background
finishes;
(ii) not require tight grasping or twisting;
(iii) be visible from a seated position; and
(iv) not be of small button type.

450

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 43 – Heights of Switches and Controls

118
5.2 FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

5.2.1 Persons with hearing impairment depend on visual cues to alert them of
emergencies. Persons with hearing impairment may need a visible as well as
audible alarm which is only sufficient to deliver warning to a normal person.

MANDATORY SECTION

5.2.2 Performance Objectives

Where fire alarm systems are provided in areas of a building required to be

accessible, the alarm shall emit both audible and visible signals.

5.2.3 Obligatory Design Requirements

Visual Alarm

(a) Subject to paragraph (b), visual alarm signal shall be provided to form part
of the fire alarm system in the form of a flashing red light, labelled “Fire
Alarm 火警” in both English and Chinese. It shall be indicated on separate
plate affixed nearby or engraved on the light cover. The alarm shall be
installed at a prominent location which shall be readily noticeable when
activated in the categories of buildings as specified in Table 2 in Chapter
2.

(b) The provision of visual alarm shall not apply to all exit staircases as
required under the Code of Practice for Fire Safety in Buildings including
the smoke lobbies adjoining the exit staircase, and the following areas:

Domestic use - domestic units

Office - areas accessible to staff only, e.g. offices,

store rooms, plant rooms, staff toilets, etc.

Department store - areas not accessible to customers, visitors,

and shopping e.g. offices, store rooms, plant rooms, staff
complex toilets, etc.

Hotel, guesthouse, - areas not accessible to guests, customers,

hostel and bank visitors, e.g. kitchens, plant rooms, staff
toilets, offices, back of house facilities, etc.

Place for worship - areas not accessible to worshippers, visitors,

e.g. offices, staff toilets, etc.

119
Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Visual Alarm (Cont’d)

Cinema, theatre, - areas not accessible to the visitors,

concert hall, stadium, spectators, audience, e.g. projector rooms,
museum, theme park offices, store rooms, plant rooms, staff toilets,
and purpose-built etc.
family amusement
centre

School, college, - areas accessible to staff only, e.g. offices,

university store rooms, plant rooms, staff toilets, staff
quarters, etc.

Factory, workshop - areas accessible to staff only, e.g. offices,

and place for store rooms, plant rooms, staff toilets, etc.
industrial use

Sports complex and - areas not accessible to visitors, athletes,

public swimming pool spectators, e.g. plant rooms, offices, store
complex rooms, staff toilets, etc.

Restaurant and food - areas not accessible to customers, visitors,

court e.g. offices, kitchens, store rooms, plant
rooms, staff toilets, etc.

Indoor market and - areas not accessible to customers, visitors,

supermarket e.g. offices, store rooms, plant rooms, staff
toilets, etc.

Hospital, - areas not accessible to patients, inmates,

purpose-built clinic, visitors, e.g. kitchens, plant rooms, staff
residential home for toilets, offices, laboratories, back of house
the elderly and facilities, staff quarters, etc.
welfare centre

Club House - areas accessible to staff only, e.g. offices,

kitchens, store rooms, plant rooms, staff
toilets, etc.

Transport station, - areas accessible to staff only, e.g. plant

interchange, rooms, station offices, regulator’s offices,
passenger terminal staff toilets, etc.

Carpark - areas not accessible to customers, visitors,

e.g. shroff offices, store rooms, plant rooms,
staff toilets, etc.

120
 Obligatory Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Positioning of Call Points

(c) The manual fire alarm call points or activation controls, e.g. breakglass
units, in places which are intended to be accessible to wheelchair users,
shall be positioned at prominent and accessible locations and installed in
accordance with the Code of Practice for Minimum Fire Service
Installations and Equipment and the Code of Practice for Inspection,
Testing and Maintenance of Installations and Equipment or Fire Services
Department Circular Letter.

Audible Alarm

(d) Audible alarm shall comply with the requirements of the Code of Practice
for Minimum Fire Service Installations and Equipment and the Code of
Practice for Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Installations and
Equipment published by the Director of Fire Services.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

Audible and visual alarm may not be appropriate for use in hospitals and some
specialized medical facilities, such as operating rooms, where it is not intended
to alert or alarm patients who are incapable of independent evacuation. The
sudden strobe flash might disrupt a surgical operation in progress which could
be catastrophic. For such facilities, the requirements for visual and audible
alarm may be modified to suit the norm of industry-accepted practices.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Except for areas designed for domestic use, areas listed in paragraph 5.2.3(b)
should also be provided with visual alarm in situations where person with
hearing impairment has to work alone.

121
5.3 PUBLIC TELEPHONES

This paragraph sets out the requirements for telephones intended to be

used by the public.

Public telephones should be accessible by all users, including wheelchair

users and persons with visual or hearing impairment.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Telephones should be fixed at an appropriate height which is within

easy reach and easy to use, to enable all users, including persons
with a disability to make full use of them.

(b) Other helpful features which should be provided include support rails;
adequate lighting; seats; big buttons; lamp signaling; amplifying
handset; inductive coupler; speakerphone; and digit 5 indicator.

(c) The provision of a text phone enables person with hearing

impairment to make calls.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Keypad

(a) The keypad of a public payphone, if provided with mechanical

keypad, should have a digit 5 indicator (see Figure 44).

Figure 44 – Digit 5 Indicator

122
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Telephone for Persons with Ambulant Disabilities and Wheelchair

Users

(b) At least one in a group of two or more payphones should be designed

for access by persons with a disability and in compliance with the
following:

(i) the approach to the accessible payphone should be free of

obstacles;
(ii) the accessible payphone should not be placed on a stepped
base unless a ramp in compliance with Division 5 is provided;
(iii) the cord length of the accessible payphone should not be less
than 750 mm;
(iv) to facilitate wheelchair users, all operable parts including the
coin slot of the accessible payphone should not be positioned
higher than 1200 mm above the finished floor level;
(v) if there is an enclosure for the accessible payphone, the
enclosure should begin no more than 650 mm from the finished
floor level to prevent it from being a hazard to persons with
visual impairment;
(vi) there should be a clear floor space of at least 750 mm by 1200
mm in front of the accessible payphone to allow either a forward
or parallel approach by a wheelchair user;
(vii) if a parallel approach is adopted, the enclosure sides, if there is
an enclosure, should not extend more than 250 mm in front of
the face of the accessible payphone;
(viii) If a forward approach is adopted, the enclosure, if any, should
have a clear width of at least 800 mm to provide wheelchair
access; shelves or other obstructions should not extend more
than 400 mm from the face of the accessible payphone; and
there should be a space of 750 mm wide by 650 mm high by
430 mm deep for the footplate of a wheelchair;
(ix) if the accessible payphone is provided in an enclosed booth, the
door of the booth should open outwards and have a clear width
of not less than 800 mm between the open door and the
opposite jamb or the other leaf; and
(x) if the accessible payphones are provided in a booth without
door, the entrance to the booth should not be less than 800 mm
wide.

(c) Grab rails should be installed on each side of the accessible

payphone booth to enable those on crutches or with canes to
maintain balance while using the accessible payphone. Otherwise,
there should be a space of not less than 900 mm in width in the
phone booth for persons with a disability to enter with their crutches
and canes.

123
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Telephone for Persons with Ambulant Disabilities and Wheelchair

Users (Cont’d)

(d) A fold-down seat should be provided in accessible booths for the

convenience of persons with ambulant disabilities.

Telephone for Persons with Visual Impairment

(e) At least one in a group of two or more payphones should be designed

for access by persons with visual impairment. Such payphone
should be provided with a mechanical keypad with the digit 5
indicator and a detection system that activates a recorded sound
message, giving explanations on the operational procedures to the
users, as the handset is picked up.

(f) Phone cards for payphones should bear a “notch” on the left bottom
to aid orientation for persons with visual impairment.

Telephone for Persons with Hearing Impairment

(g) At least one in a group of two or more payphones should be provided

with amplifying handset or receiver with inductive coupler. If a
payphone is equipped with the latter, it should be identified by the
international symbol of access for persons with hearing impairment
(see Figure 30).

Telephone for Persons With Speech Impairment

(h) At least one in a group of two or more payphones should be capable

of handling written messages for access by persons with speech
impairment.

124
5.4 REMOTE SIGNAGE SYSTEMS

A remote signage system carries and transmits a voice message to the

users in the form of a talking sign. The system shall provide audible
information to persons with visual impairment who are equipped with
proper receivers.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) A remote signage system normally consists of short audio signals

sent by invisible infrared light beams from permanently installed
transmitters to a hand-held receiver that decodes the signal and
delivers the voice message through its speaker or headset.

(b) With the hand-held receiver, persons with visual impairment can
scan the environment and locate his relative position. It can work
effectively in both interior and exterior applications for landmark
identification and way-finding.

(c) The system promotes more confident and independent travel

throughout all major common areas.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

A remote directional signage system which transmits a voice message

by means of infrared or the like detectable by a proper receiver should
be provided to facilitate access and movement of persons with visual
impairment.

125
5.5 VERTICAL LIFTING PLATFORMS

A vertical lifting platform is a mechanical lift with a platform and walls which
provides vertical circulation between two levels.

A vertical lifting platform shall be designed to facilitate persons with ambulant

disabilities and wheelchair users for the vertical transportation from one level
to another in a building.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) Installation of vertical lifting platform is necessary if no other means of

vertical transportation is available when the presence of persons with a
disability can be envisaged.

(b) It provides an accessible route to a performing area.

(c) It provides access to equipment control rooms and projection booths.

(d) Clear instructions for use and emergency alarm should be provided
inside the lifting platform.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

(a) Where it is impractical to provide a passenger lift or a ramp, a

self-operated vertical lifting platform should be considered as a
reasonable alternative for vertical circulation for wheelchair users, the
vertical lifting platform should have the following provisions:

Automatic Door

(i) minimum clear entrance width of 900 mm;

(ii) single door or 2-door design and the kinetic energy of the door
should not exceed 10J;

Platform size

(iii) minimum size of 1100 mm (wide) x 1500 mm (deep);

126
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Safety Barrier

(iv) provision of safety barriers of not less than 1100 mm in height;

(v) provision of a flip-up ramp if a door is not provided, to act as a
safety barrier and serves as an access ramp for wheelchair users;

Control

(vi) lifting platform buttons and emergency call button should comply
with paragraphs 80(1) to 80(8) and 80(i) and 80(ii) in Division 19.
For automatic swing doors, the control buttons at the landing side
should meet the requirements in paragraph (ea)(xi) in Section B of
Division 11. The hold-to-run button should be of a minimum
dimension of 50 mm;
(viA) the vertical lifting platform should be self-operable by users
holding a common key;
(viB) call button and CCTV should be provided at every landing to a
vertical lifting platform. The call button should activate an intercom
and video contact with a caretaker’s office or public
information/service counter provided under paragraph 70 in
Division 15 for assistance;
(vii) automatic homing device should be installed so that in the event of
a power failure, the platform lift will descend to the entrance level;

Grab Bars

(viii) grab bars complying with paragraphs 28(3) and (4) in Division 8
should be placed at a height of 900mm from the finished floor level
and be fixed on both sides and at the rear of the platform (door(s)
excepted). The vertical distance between the grab bar and the
control buttons should not be less than 100 mm;

Maximum Travel and Loading

(ix) the maximum travel should be 7000 mm;

(x) the rated load of the lifting platform should not exceed 500 kg;

Sign

(xi) a sign to indicate the rated load should be provided at a prominent

position next to the lift control buttons inside the lift; and

127
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Landing (repealed)

(xii) (repealed)

Undertaking from Owners

(xiii) the owner should undertake quality management and

maintenance to facilitate the reliable use of the lifting platform.
The platform should be kept in service during the opening hours of
the premises and routine servicing/repair should be arranged in
closed times.

Figure 45 – (repealed)

128
5.6 DRINKING FOUNTAINS

This paragraph sets out the requirements for provision of drinking fountains.
A drinking fountain is a primary means for providing the public with sanitary
water.

BEST PRACTICE SECTION

A. Design Considerations

(a) The design and provision of drinking fountains should take into account
the envisaged use of persons with a disability.

(b) The operable controls and direction of water flow should be designed and
installed in a manner to facilitate the use by persons with a disability.

(c) Facilities for wheelchair users call for extra consideration in relation to
access and manoeuvering space.

B. Recommended Design Requirements

Provision

(a) Where drinking fountains are provided, at least one of the drinking
fountains on a given floor should have a design complying with this
section.

Spout

(b) The fountain spout should:

(i) have an opening located between 750 mm and 900 mm from the
floor or ground surface;
(ii) be located near to the front of the unit;
(iii) direct the water flow in a trajectory that is parallel or nearly parallel to
the front of the unit; and
(iv) provide a flow of water at least 100 mm high to allow for the insertion
of a cup or glass.

(c) Automatic controls or controls with handles of the lever type operable with
a closed fist should be provided.

129
Recommended Design Requirements (Cont’d)

Control

(d) Controls should:

(i) be at or near to the front of the fountain;
(ii) be operable with one hand;
(iii) require no tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist;
(iv) require a force of 22 N or less to activate; and
(v) be hand-operated control with minimum dimension of 50 mm.

Spatial Arrangement

(e) The spatial arrangement should allow for the provision of:
(i) a clear floor space of at least 750 mm x 1200 mm;
(ii) a clear knee space of at least 750 mm wide, 200 mm deep and
680 mm high between the bottom of the apron and the floor or
ground; and
(iii) a toe space not less than 750 mm wide, 230 mm deep and 230 mm
high.

(f) All wall-mounted drinking fountains should be placed in an alcove to

eliminate the hazard of collision to persons with visual impairment.

(g) A wall guard should be installed to protect a drinking fountain that extends
into a corridor and has an open space underneath.

Dimensions relating to the design of drinking fountains are shown in Figure 46.

130
 230
(MIN.)

230 (MIN.)

230
(MIN.)

*ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN mm

Figure 46 – Built-in Drinking Fountain

131
 CHAPTER 6

DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR THE ELDERLY AND ELDERLY WITH FRAILTY

6.1 GENERAL

Many aspects of design for persons with a disability are already covered in the
Mandatory Sections of this Design Manual and can be usefully applied to the
design of both interiors and exteriors of all structures and buildings to make them
more friendly to the elderly. The guidelines set out in this Chapter aim to provide
additional design recommendations for building a more comfortable, healthy and
safe built-environment for older persons.

“Ageing-in-Place” is a universal concept accepted as fundamental to new housing

design, the creation of elderly-friendly homes and environment will allow the
elderly to enjoy life with autonomy which is essential in achieving the goal of
healthy ageing.

Ageing is a gradual process. The level of ability of a person declines in a

progressive manner as ageing progresses. To minimize the potential risks
leading to injuries or accidents, the following design guidelines are recommended
in consideration of the common habitual actions as well as the declining abilities
of many older persons.

6.2 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Common Habitual Actions Recommended Design Guidelines

of the Elderly
6.2.1 The elderly may be unstable in Barrier free access should be without
their gait and unable to steps, thresholds, small ramps or kerbs,
recognise changes in level of wherever possible. Where changes in
floor surfaces. level are unavoidable, handrails or grab
bars should be provided, no matter how
slight the level change may seem.

Steps and staircases should be

designed with wider treads and lower
risers.

Floor surfaces should comply with

Division 4. Slip-resistant floor finishes
should be used, shiny and reflective
floors such as marble, glazed tiles and
the like should be avoided.

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6.2 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS (Cont’d)

Common Habitual Actions Recommended Design Guidelines

of the Elderly
6.2.1 Escalators should be designed with
(Cont’d) slower speed.

Open jointed pavers or aeration paver

blocks with uneven or very rough
surface should be avoided at external
open spaces.

6.2.2 The elderly may be unable to Where changes in level are

see clearly and may have unavoidable, the floor and wall surfaces
problems in accommodating along the level difference should be in
dramatic changes of lighting luminous contrast.
levels.
All common areas of a building should
have an illumination level of not less
than 120 lux measured at the finished
floor level, and uniformity of illumination
level should be maintained for any
space.

Where additional lighting activated by

sensors is provided to enhance the
illumination level of the lift lobby of upper
floors, corridors, accessible paths and
staircases, the length of the corridors
and paths and the walking speed of the
elderly should be considered in setting
the duration of such sensors.

Alternative or stand-by light sources

should be provided to illuminate any
space in case of power failure.

Double-switching system should be

considered. Switches should be
installed near to bedside to avoid
needing to cross the room in the dark.

Consideration should be given to ensure

gradual transition of lighting levels from
one place to another.

The use of natural lighting or ambient

artificial white light should be
encouraged.

133
6.2 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS (Cont’d)

Common Habitual Actions Recommended Design Guidelines

of the Elderly
6.2.2 The use of wall-mounted light or
(Cont’d) peripheral lighting from floor lamps are
superior to a central ceiling source as
the formation of shadows can be
avoided.

Bare light bulbs producing glare which

would cause painful to the aging eyes
should be avoided.

All interior spaces should be lit at a

consistent and even level, from floor to
ceiling and from wall to wall. High
contrast between shadow and light
creating confusion and disorienting
patterns should be avoided.

As the lens thickens and yellows with

age, it becomes less sensitive to colours
having shorter wavelengths (blues,
greens and violets). Warm colours with
longer wavelengths (reds, oranges and
yellows) are easier to differentiate. The
use of the bright primary colour as
contrast or highlight is therefore
recommended.

Monotone colour should be avoided.

The colour combination of signage -

yellow figure on black background or
white figure on blue background is
recommended.

6.2.3 The elderly would have Resting places with resting facilities,
decreased stamina. such as seats (including fold-down
seats) or lean-on railings, should be:

(a) provided on stair landings;

(b) provided in long corridors; and
(c) adequately provided in external
recreation spaces.

134
6.2 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS (Cont’d)

Common Habitual Actions Recommended Design Guidelines

of the Elderly
6.2.3 Long corridors and passageways within
(Cont’d) transport stations, interchanges and
passenger terminals, and public
passages within a building connecting
with transport stations, interchanges and
passenger terminals should be provided
with resting places with resting facilities.
The resting facilities should be provided
in recessed areas at maximum intervals
of 50 m.

Resting facilities should not reduce the

statutory requirements on the clear
width of access and manoeuvring space
and should not cause obstruction to
access, circulation and exit routes.

6.2.4 The elderly may have Different colours should be used for
difficulties in way finding. different floor levels, zonings or areas of
different functional purposes.

Different floor surfaces should be

considered for tactile cues for
navigation.

Auditory input at lift helping the elderly

to locate themselves should be used.

Control panel or switch at the lift lobby

should be located at 1050 mm above
the finished floor level. It should be
easily operated and have a minimum
luminous contrast of 30%.

6.2.5 The elderly may fall due to Switches and controls should be
bending, stooping and installed at reachable heights preferably
stretching. at the same level as door handles.

Handrails to corridors, steps and

staircases should be lowered to a height
between 810 mm and 900 mm from the
finished floor level to the top of the
handrails.

135
6.2 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS (Cont’d)

Common Habitual Actions Recommended Design Guidelines

of the Elderly
6.2.5 Cupboards should not be installed at
(Cont’d) high levels. Overhead cabinets should
be avoided.

Outdoor drying rack systems with

laundry poles should be avoided.

6.2.6 The elderly may be weak in Handrails should be of materials such

gripping, and may have as timber or plastic-coated surfaces for
difficulties in turning and easier grip.
manipulating taps, switches,
door handles and the like. Lever-type controls and handles with
limited grip should be used. Knob
handles, push operated and self-closing
type faucet controls should be avoided
(see Figure 47).

6.2.7 The elderly may have Sliding door is a good choice. Should
difficulties in pushing open door closing devices be used, they
heavy doors. should be designed to allow external
and internal doors to be opened with
horizontal forces of not more than 28N
and 18N respectively.

6.2.8 The elderly require safety Doors of bathrooms and toilets should
design provisions for open outward or both ways. Locks and
bathrooms and toilets. latches should be of larger sizes and be
able to open from outside with a coin.

Emergency alarm system should be

installed. Emergency call bell shall
comply with Division 17. Should
pull-cord be installed, they must be
extended to floor-level.

Bathtub should have either built-in seat

at the head end or attachable portable
seat that fastens securely to the tub
when needed.

136
6.2 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS (Cont’d)

Common Habitual Actions Recommended Design Guidelines

of the Elderly
6.2.8 Showers, other than roll-in types, should
(Cont’d) be of size 1500 mm x 900 mm minimum
with a folding seat to allow transfer.

Doorways should be wide enough to

allow a wheelchair to pass through and
space of bathrooms and toilets should
be adequate for turning and transfer.

Grab bars should be installed and to

comply with Divisions 11 and 12.

6.2.9 The elderly require comfortable Sound-absorbing materials should be

and healthy built-environment. used for floors and walls to avoid
echoes.

Non-glare or low gloss finishes on

floors, matt paint or textured wallpaper
on walls should be considered to help
reduce glare. Glass or reflective
material should be avoided.

Large windows should be avoided at the

end of long and dark corridors.

Cross ventilation should be optimized in

common areas such as corridors and lift
lobbies.

Recreational facilities such as shelters

and benches, pavilions and tai-chi areas
with safety flooring system should be
provided in external open spaces.

137
Figure 47 – Examples of Door Handles and Faucets

138
Appendix A

Anthropometrics
 APPENDIX A

ANTHROPOMETRICS
(All dimensions are in mm)

A.1 Objective:
This Appendix contains dimensional data which can be used for guidance when
designing facilities and equipment for use by persons with a disability.

A.2 Considerations:
The dimensions of the individual human being vary with time and from one person to
another. In addition, the average dimensions vary from one country to another.

When carrying out detailed design, consideration should be given to size variation
between males and females as well as between different ages.

Height 1500 mm – 1900 mm

Eye 1400 mm – 1750 mm

Shoulder 1200 mm – 1550 mm

Figure A1 - Dimensional Data of an Average Person

Max. Reach Up 1850 mm – 2100 mm

Oblique Reach Up 1650 mm – 2000 mm

Forward Reach 1300 mm – 1450 mm

Figure A2 - Reaching Zones of an Average Person

A/1
Figure A3 - Dimensional Data of a Wheelchair User

Figure A4 - Vertical Reaching Zones of a Wheelchair User

A/2
A.3 Forward reach of a wheelchair user
The maximum forward reach, without obstruction, is 1200 mm from the floor and the
minimum forward reach is 400 mm from the floor as shown in Figures A5 and A7.

The maximum forward reach over an obstruction 500 mm deep is 1100 mm from the
floor as shown in Figure A6.

Figure A5 - Forward Reach

Figure A6 - Forward Reach Over Obstruction

Figure A7 - Forward Reach Without Obstruction

A/3
A.4 Side reach
The maximum side reach, without obstruction, is 1300 mm from the floor and the
minimum side reach is 250 mm from the floor as shown in Figures A8 and A9.

The maximum side reach over an obstruction 860 mm high by 500 mm deep is 1200
mm from the floor as shown in Figure A10.

Figure A8 - Side Reach Without Obstruction

Figure A9 – Maximum Side Reach

1200 MAX

Figure A10 – Maximum Side Reach over an Obstruction

A/4
Persons with visual impairment using a long white cane Persons using crutches

Detectable path dimension

Person with baby carriage

Path width for a person together with Path width for two wheelchair users
a wheelchair user

Figure A11 – Dimensions Required for General Pathway

A/5
Appendix B

Guidelines for
Wheelchair Transfer and
Movement
 APPENDIX B

GUIDELINES FOR WHEELCHAIR TRANSFER AND MOVEMENT

B.1 Dimensions Of Wheelchairs

The dimensions of wheelchairs commonly used by persons with a disability in

Hong Kong are provided at Figure B1.

800 MIN

10-27 kg

36-100 kg

Figure B1 - Dimensions of Wheelchair

B/1
Figure B2 – Manoeuvring Spaces for Doorway

B/2
 1/4 Turn 1/2 Turn

Complete Turn

Figure B3 – Wheelchair Manoeuvring Space

WASTE
1000 MAX
1200 MAX

Figure B4 – Design Heights for Various Features

B/3
Figure B5 – Diagonal Approach for Transferring from a wheelchair
to a W.C. (Diagonal Approach)

B/4
Figure B6 – Side Approach for Transferring from a
Wheelchair to a W.C.

Figure B7 – Frontal Approach for Transferring from a

Wheelchair to a W.C.

B/5
Appendix C

Slip Resistance of
Flooring Materials
 APPENDIX C

SLIP RESISTANCE OF FLOORING MATERIALS

This appendix aims to provide design references of slip resistance for flooring
materials and floor finishes.

Materials and finishes are graded under dry and wet conditions. The gradings given
herein are for reference only, actual value of “static coefficient of friction” shall be
subject to the manufacturer’s recommended characteristics.

Excessive slip resistance can also be hazardous since it may create unexpected grip
on the surface.

Gradings based on “static coefficient of friction” measured in “dry” condition are

classified by:

“Very Good” - Material surface suitable for use in areas where special design care
is required, with an approximate “static coefficient of friction” value
of 0.8 or above.

“Good” - Material surface satisfactory for normal use with an approximate

“static coefficient of friction” value below 0.8 but at or above 0.5.

“Fair” - Material surface with moderate potential for slip, with an

approximate “static coefficient of friction” value below 0.5 but at or
above 0.2.

“Poor” - Unsafe material surface with high potential for slip, with an
approximate “static coefficient of friction” value below 0.2.

Commentary

“Slip resistance” is based on the frictional force required to keep a shoe heel or crutch
tip from slipping on a walking surface. While the “dynamic coefficient of friction” during
walking varies in a complex and non-uniform way, the “static coefficient of friction”,
which can be measured in several ways, provides a close approximation of the slip
resistance of a surface. However, it is generally recognized that the “static coefficient
of friction” varies considerably due to the presence of contaminants, water, floor
finishes, and other factors not under the control of the designer or builder and not
subject to design and construction guidelines and that compliance of which would be
difficult to measure on the building site. For details of method of measuring “slip
resistance”, readers are suggested to make reference to some available overseas
standards such as AS/NZS 4586-2004, AS/NZS 4663-2004, ASTM 1679, ASTM 1677,
BS 7976-2, BS 8204 etc.

C/1
Appendix D

Luminous Contrast
 APPENDIX D

LUMINOUS CONTRAST

Types of contrast

Contrast refers to perceptible differences between different regions of an image or

scene. There are two fundamental types of contrast:
(a) Colour contrast, and
(b) Luminous or brightness contrast.

Colour contrast

Colour contrast is the difference between colours positioned on a colour wheel. For
example violet is the contrast to yellow, red is contrasted to green. Colours can
contrast on the basis of their lightness, saturation or hue.

(a) lightness measures the relative amount of light reflected from a colour;
(b) saturation relates to its intensity; and
(c) hue refers to elementary colour names, that is red, green, blue etc.

The perception of colour, however, can change with the type of light. Some people
with visual impairment are unable to see colours as ageing and sight loss diminish
their sensitivity of colour perception. Therefore colour contrast on its own may not
be sufficient to provide a visual contrast.

Tint: color + white, resulting in a lighter value

Tone: color + grey, resulting in a darker value
Shade: color + black, delivering the darkest versions of color

D/1
Luminous contrast

Luminous contrast is the amount of light reflected from one surface or component,
compared to the amount of light reflected from the background or base surfaces.
Luminous contrast is preferred to colour contrast because it offers light/dark
differences that can be picked up more easily by people with visual impairment.

Two quite differently coloured surfaces may have a similar luminous. For example,
cherry red on black has a high colour contrast but low luminous contrast and is not as
visible as pale pink or yellow on black to people with visual impairment.

A 30% difference in luminous is generally the minimum discernible by a person with

partial sight. Black and white have a 100% luminous contrast. Grey and black or
grey and white have a 50% luminous contrast.

D/2
Measurement of Luminous Contrast

The light reflectance value of a subject can be measured by means of a luminance

meter with a 1 degree measurement field. Measurement will be taken from a
viewing height of 1600 mm + 100 mm and with an angle between 40 and 50 degrees
to the vertical in direction of approach.

“Luminous contrast” means the amount of light reflected from the surface of the
object compared to the amount of light reflected from the surface of its surrounding
background. Such contrast expressed in percent can be determined by:
[(B1-B2) / B1] x 100
Where
B1 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the lighter area and
B2 = light reflectance value (LRV) of the darker area.

Lighting

Contrast will only be of assistance to people with visual impairment if there is an

appropriate quantity and quality of illumination with which to view the contrasting
elements. At low light levels, the perception of contrast diminishes. Lighting levels
should generally be relatively uniform and about 25% higher for people with low
vision. Strong directional lighting casts shadows that can mask contrasting surfaces.
Significant fluctuations in illumination level can reduce visibility due to the slower
adaptive response of the eye in someone with low vision.

Effective uses of luminous contrast include:

 Contrasting tactile warning strips to indicate the start
and finish of a ramp;
 Contrasting doorframes, doors, skirting boards and
architraves to assist with locating doors;
 Contrasting paving at doorways to assist with locating
the entry; and
 Contrasting edges of steps, a roadway or poles in play
areas to highlight potential hazards.

D/3