Wheelchair ramps for stairs can be purchased for temporary or permanent use. One of the most important considerations is the gradient of your ramp. When your ramp is to be used in a public access situation, there are strict rules that you must abide to. When you use the services of a reputable wheelchair ramp provider like Go Access Ltd we will ensure the gradient of your ramp is correct. Below is a look at what you need to consider before purchasing a ramp and alternatives available when a standard ramp will not do the job.
Wheelchair Ramps for Stairs : Taking Measurements
If you look online you will find formulas that will help you decide the gradient of your ramp. These can however be confusing. Go Access can help avoid confusion. Firstly, look at the steepness of your steps. If they are steep, then laying a ramp flat over the top will not work. A steep ramp is worse than no ramp at all. If you incorrectly install a ramp over steps at a public access building you will be held responsible for accidents that happen.
So, if your steps are steep, can you still use wheelchair ramps for stairs? The answer to this will depend on several criteria. One of these is the maximum available space you have to install your ramp. To lower the gradient of your ramp, you need a longer ramp. But, if you have limited space in front of your build, this will not always be possible. Don’t worry though; there are plenty of alternatives that will discuss later on.
Width
As well as measuring the vertical rise and the available distance, you need to calculate the total usable width. Ramps that are too narrow will not conform to DDA requirements either. We can help you calculate the length of ramp you need in order to ensure that it will sit at the right gradient. If you intend to use your ramp with you on the move, a modular design is an excellent investment. This will allow you to add or take away sections of the ramp as and when necessary. Telescopic ramps are another great option. Once again, these will extend to the length you require to ensure your wheelchair ramp is set at an optimal gradient.
When you purchase wheelchair ramps for stairs from Go Access, we will provide you with all the information you need to ensure that each time you use a portable ramp you set it at the right gradient. So let’s move on to situations where you can’t use a ramp that is designed to go over a set of stairs. If you have steep steps, unless you have a lot of available space in front of your build, you will need to use a different design.
Zigzag Wheelchair Ramps for Stairs
If you have limited space and a steep set of stairs, a zigzag ramp can be a good solution. These are generally used for permanent use and made from concrete, incorporating safety rails on both sides. Here you need to consider the corners that wheelchairs will go round as they zigzag up the ramp. Corners that are too tight are dangerous, and gradients that are too big will cause accidents. Designing a wheelchair ramp is an exact science, and that’s why we recommend you leave the job to the experts.
Circular Wheelchair Ramps for Stairs
Circular ramps are an alternative to a ramp that will cover over your steps. When you have virtually no room in front of your build, but room to the sides and back, a ramp that circles around your build is the perfect solution. You will find many circular ramps on larger buildings like libraries and hospitals.
When choosing a wheelchair ramp design, it is important to consider all of the above before purchasing. Although modular and telescopic ramps will adapt to a large number of situations, there will be somewhere you do not have enough space to use one. This is why we recommend you discuss your needs with us first. We can come out to visit you to see just how much space you have, and if a ramp that fits over your staircase is an option or not. With so many different ramp designs available, there is always a solution to your problem. Even if your stairs are so steep that the able-bodied hate climbing them, we have a wheelchair access solution ready for you!