Overview
A well-designed ramp makes home entry safer and supports independence for wheelchair, walker and scooter users, as well as carers. This guide covers gradients, landings, width, handrails, edge protection, materials and a pre-installation checklist, using the Australian accessibility standard AS 1428.1 (Design for access and mobility) as the benchmark.
Private homes are not always legally required to meet AS 1428.1, but it is the best-practice reference used by occupational therapists, builders and funding bodies in Australia. Check local council and building requirements, and the requirements of any funder (for example the NDIS or an aged care provider), before you build.
Gradient (Slope)
Gradient is written as a ratio of rise to length. A 1:14 ramp rises 1 mm for every 14 mm of length, so a 300 mm rise needs at least 4.2 m of ramp.
| Type (AS 1428.1) | Maximum gradient | Limits | Handrails |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walkway | 1:20 | Landings at least every 15 m | Not required by the standard |
| Ramp | 1:14 | Landings at least every 9 m at 1:14 | Required on both sides |
| Step ramp | 1:10 | Maximum rise 190 mm, maximum length 1900 mm | Not required by the standard |
| Kerb ramp | 1:8 | Maximum rise 190 mm, maximum length 1520 mm | Not required by the standard |
| Threshold ramp | 1:8 | Maximum rise 35 mm, maximum length 280 mm | Not required by the standard |
Practical points:
- Flatter is easier. Many people who self-propel, have reduced upper-limb strength or use a walker manage a 1:20 slope far better than 1:14.
- Steeper portable ramps (for example 1:8 or steeper) are usually only suitable for short rises with an attendant or a powered chair, and only within the ramp and wheelchair manufacturer's limits.
- Check the tipping limits of the wheelchair or scooter. Anti-tip bars and a capable attendant may be required.
- Note: the older US (ADA) guidance of 1:12 is steeper than the Australian maximum of 1:14. Use Australian figures.
Key Dimensions (AS 1428.1)
- Minimum clear width between handrails: 1000 mm
- Handrail height: 865–1000 mm above the ramp surface, consistent along the ramp and landings
- Handrail extension: 300 mm horizontally past the top and bottom of the ramp
- Landings: at the top and bottom of every ramp, and at intermediate intervals (every 9 m at 1:14). Landings are typically at least 1200 mm long in the direction of travel; allow more space where the user must turn, open a door or where a carer is assisting
- Edge protection: where a handrail is not wall-supported, a kerb or kerb rail is needed so castors and walking aids cannot slip off the edge
A door that opens onto the top landing needs extra circulation space for the user to approach, open the door and move through it. Assess this with the person's actual equipment.
Handrail Requirements
- Provide handrails on both sides of a ramp steeper than 1:20.
- Handrails should be continuous, easy to grip (a round section is commonly used) and free of sharp edges.
- Extend handrails 300 mm past the top and bottom so the person is supported before and after the slope.
- Avoid handrails that reduce the clear width below what the wheelchair or walker needs.
Surface and Drainage
- Use a firm, slip-resistant surface suitable for wet conditions.
- Avoid gaps, lips and steps at the joins between ramp sections and landings.
- Make sure water drains off the ramp and does not pool on landings.
- Keep the ramp clear of leaves, moss, hoses and outdoor furniture.
- Provide adequate lighting for night-time use.
Materials
Common ramp materials include:
- Aluminium — Lightweight, durable, modular sections; can be relocated or reused. Check surface grip when wet and heat in direct sun
- Timber — Affordable and customisable; needs ongoing maintenance and can become slippery when wet or mossy
- Concrete — Permanent and highly durable; higher cost and harder to change later
- Portable or threshold ramps — Useful for single steps, door sills and travel; check the rated load, length and gradient
Checklist Before Installation
- Measure the total rise from the ground to the top of the threshold (in millimetres).
- Calculate the required ramp length: rise × 14 for 1:14, or rise × 20 for 1:20.
- Check that there is enough space for the ramp, landings and any turns.
- Check the user's equipment: wheelchair or scooter dimensions, turning space and tipping limits.
- Confirm the user (or carer) can safely manage the gradient in a trial.
- Plan landings at the top, bottom and any change of direction.
- Check council, building and funder requirements.
- Choose a material based on climate, budget, permanence and maintenance.
- Use a qualified builder or installer for permanent ramps.
Safety Tips
- Do not exceed the rated load of a modular or portable ramp.
- Approach and descend the ramp straight on, not at an angle.
- Attendants should stay on the downhill side when controlling a wheelchair on a slope.
- Inspect the ramp regularly for loose sections, damage and slippery surfaces.
Always consult a qualified occupational therapist or accessibility specialist before purchasing or building a ramp. An OT can assess the person, equipment and home together and may help with funding applications.
References
- NDIS. Assistive technology explained: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/assistive-technology-explained
- Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/support-at-home/delivering-services-for-support-at-home/assistive-technology-and-home-modifications-at-hm-scheme
- Government of South Australia. DHS Equipment Program (Domiciliary Equipment Service): https://des.sa.gov.au/
- Department of Veterans' Affairs. Aids, equipment and modifications through the Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP): https://www.dva.gov.au/what-we-help-with/care-at-home-and-aged-care-services/living-independently/dva-in-home-programs/aids-equipment-and-modifications-through-the-rehabilitation-appliances-program-rap
- Standards Australia. AS 1428.1:2021 Design for access and mobility, Part 1: General requirements for access – New building work: https://www.standards.org.au/standards-catalogue/standard-details?designation=as-1428-1-2021
- Aidacare. Single Folding Ramps: https://shop.aidacare.com.au/products/single-folding-ramps
- Aidacare. Threshold Ramps (Modular): https://shop.aidacare.com.au/products/threshold-ramps-modular
- Aidacare. Personal & Senior Ramps: https://shop.aidacare.com.au/products/personal-senior-ramps
Image Credits
- Image: Single Folding Ramps, courtesy of Aidacare, https://shop.aidacare.com.au/products/single-folding-ramps
- Image: Threshold Ramps (Modular), courtesy of Aidacare, https://shop.aidacare.com.au/products/threshold-ramps-modular
- Image: Personal & Senior Ramps (cover image), courtesy of Aidacare, https://shop.aidacare.com.au/products/personal-senior-ramps