Disability Access Certificates - Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2009
Background
The Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2009 (S.1. No 351 of 2009) came into effect on the 1st of October 2009. (Please note the introduction of Disability Access Certificates will take effect from the 1st January 2010). For further information contact us.
The 2009 Regulations introduce a number of significant changes including:
- Revised Fire Safety Certificate Applications (FSCA) Process – A revised FSCA is required where a design of a building is revised to comply with the conditions attached to a grant of planning permission or where significant revision is made to the design or works in respect of which a Fire Safety Certificate has been granted.
- 7 Day Notice - A “7 Day Notice” must be submitted to a Building Control Authority (BCA) where commencement of work is imminent.
- Disability Access Certificates (DAC) - Building Control Authorities will have to certify that the designs of new non-domestic buildings and new apartment blocks comply with Part M (Access for People with Disabilities) of the Building Regulations, before work commences on the relevant projects. The application for a DAC will have to be accompanied by a site plan or layout plan to which the application relates. The plans should:
- Include identification of the works and a description of the building;
- Enable the Building Control Authority to assess whether the proposed plans and other particulars (if constructed in accordance to the plans) will comply with the requirements of Part M of the Second schedule of the Building Regulations
- Identify the nature and extent of the proposed use and where appropriate, of the existing use of the building concerned.
Note: The application for a DAC will also have to be accompanied by a fee of €800. A Revised Disability Access Certificate will also be required were significant revisions have taken place to the design of works, which has previously been granted a DAC.
Disability Access Certificates - How we can help you?
We work with our clients to assist in the design and development of Disability Access Certificates. Our services include:
- reviewing the proposed design to ensure that the design complies with existing building regulations (Part M) and best practice (Building for Everyone; BS:8300 etc.).
- provision of information and feedback to the design team on the key access requirements.
- preparation of a report showing compliance with Part M and demonstrating how the building and approaches are accessible. This allows the Building Control Authority to assess whether the proposed plans and other particulars will comply with the requirements of Part M of the Second Schedule of the Building Regulations.
Our acredited trainers, can also provide training on Disability Access Certificates to you and your team. Why not check out the following relevant courses:
- Improving Access to the Built Environment including Disability Access Certificates - One Day Course
- Access Auditor - 3 Day Training
- How to Prepare of Review a Disability Access Certificate - Two Day Course
or for further information call us on 01-4151285 or contact us.
