Accessible - Ramps

Suitable for: Users with physical impairments, wheelchair users, older people, people carrying heavy loads.

Construction	Advantages	Disadvantages	Improvements / variations	Cost / labour
Moveable wooden ramp for wheelchair to access facilities with steps	Flexible – can be placed wherever needed Cheaper than concrete Raised sides prevent a wheelchair rolling off the side of the ramp	Less durable than concrete User needs help to move the ramp when needed	Paint raised sides white or bright colour to increase visibility	Medium
Wide concrete ramp to handpump apron	The concrete ramp onto the apron improves access for everyone	Ramp requires more space than steps Drainage must be in the opposite direction to keep the ramp dry Monitoring needed to ensure masons do not make it too steep to reduce cost	Paint raised sides white or a bright colour to increase visibility Cross-hatching on ramp would make it less slippery when wet (see Steps)	Medium
Low-gradient concrete ramp with raised sides for safety	Smooth, firm, durable Gentle gradient so a child can propel her/himself up and make a controlled descent Raised sides prevent wheelchairs rolling off	Monitoring of construction required to ensure gradient not too steep Maintenance needed to keep the ground the same level as the end of the ramp	Paint raised sides white or bright colour to increase visibility	High

Acknowledgements

• Content and images: Compendium of accessible WASH technologies WaterAid.