Does accessibility need to be considered in the day to day management of buildings in order to meet the technical requirements of Part M when carrying out works?
Considering accessibility in the day to day management of a building is equally as important as incorporating accessibility in the design and construction of a building. For example a building can easily become inaccessible if it is not managed correctly. However the question is ‘does accessibility need to be considered in the day to day management of a building in order to meet the technical requirements of Part M 2010’?
The technical requirements of Part M (2010) are as follows:
- M1 – Adequate provision shall be made for people to access and use a building, its facilities and its environs.
- M2 – Adequate provision shall be made for people to approach and access an extension to a building.
- M3 – If sanitary facilities are provided in a building that is to be extended, adequate sanitary facilities shall be provided for people within the extension.
- M4 – Part M does not apply to works in connection with extensions to and material alterations of existing dwellings provided that such works do not create a new dwelling.
Technical Guidance Document (TGD) M 2010 has been published by the Department of Environment to assist in meeting the technical requirements (outlined above) of Part M 2010. Section 0.12 of this guidance document states “ Whilst the provisions of the Building Regulations do not relate to management or maintenance and compliance with the Regulations is not dependent on these, it is acknowledged that they are important functions and contribute to the ongoing accessibility of the building. Therefore the answer to our question is no, however here are five tips on how to improve accessibility through good management of buildings:
- Access Policy/Access Team: Set up an access team and have a dedicated person with responsibility for accessibility. It is important to benchmark access on a regular basis and have a policy and plan available to indicate your commitment to accessibility.
- Ensure your customer services are accessible: Providing a high level of customer service which includes effective communication with customers, to manage the needs of all customers so that they are able to access, use and understand the services they require.
- Maintain accessibility: Maintaining and minimising the deterioration of the buildings fabric, finishes, fixtures and services is important to ensure the building remains accessible. Carry out access maintenance checks/audits on a regular basis and ensure that the building is cleaned regularly, and is a safe and healthy environment for staff and visitors.
- Health, safety and accessibility: Implementing policies, procedures and equipment to facilitate the safe evacuation of everyone in an emergency.
- Accessible information: Providing information, including printed material, signage, notice boards, that is universally designed and accessible to all. Ensure pre-visitor information on accessibility is available in a range of formats (i.e. website, access guides and leaflets).
If you would like further information on managing accessibility, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01-4151285 or [email protected]
