It is vital to ensure any space in the public realm are designed with DDA compliance in mind. This is not limited to accessibility of the space overall, it includes smaller features such as DDA compliant grate covers for drainage.
What is the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)?
The Disability makes it against the law for public places to be inaccessible to people with a disability. There are multiple standards and guidelines set out for equal access, such as AS 1428.
The AS 1428 standard is a set of guidelines that aims to ensure accessibility in the built environment for people with disabilities. This standard is crucial for promoting inclusivity and independence, by defining practical requirements for features like drainage grates, AS 1428 helps architects, builders, and contractors design spaces that are accessible to everyone, reflecting Australia’s commitment to social inclusion and equality.
What are the DDA grate requirements?
AS 1428.1:2021 includes, Section 4 Floor or ground surfaces on continuous accessible paths of travel and circulation spaces, with Clause 4.4 Grates which states:
“Grates in paths of travel shall be in accordance with the following:
(a) Circular openings shall be not greater than 13mm in diameter.
(b) Slotted openings shall be not greater than 13mm wide and not greater than 150mm long and be oriented so that the long dimension is transverse to the dominant direction of travel.
(c) Linear openings shall be oriented so that the longer dimension is transverse to the dominant direction of travel, except where linear openings are less than 8mm wide. Where linear openings are less than 8mm wide, orientation is optional.”
Clause 4.4 (a) Circular Openings
Clause 4.4 (b) Slotted Openings
Clause 4.4 (c) Linear Openings
AS 1428.2-2009 contains Clause 9 Ground and floor surfaces, with sub-clause (c) Gratings, which states:
“If gratings are located in a walking surface, they shall have spaces not more than 13mm wide and not more than 150mm long. If gratings have elongated openings, they shall be placed so that the long dimension is transverse to the dominant direction of travel.”
Note, AS 1428.1:2021 Clause 4.4 (b) is the same as AS 1428.2-2009 Clause 9 (c).
DDA Compliant, Down to Grates
DDA compliance is essential for all parties involved in a project, its more than including ramps, accessible parking or lifts. DDA compliant grates are also an important issue. SABdrain has a wide range of DDA compliant drainage solutions
601 Series
601 features a polypropylene channel with Class B rated galvanised grates. Each galvanised grate comes with a 2 point security fixing, to keep it rattle free from vehicular movements and secure it from unauthorised access. Heel guard type grate, preventing heeled shoes & other objects from becoming caught in the grate.
707 Series
Polypropylene channel with Class D rated cast iron heel guard grates. Each high strength cast iron grate is equipped with 5 point security fixings system. SABdrain 707 is designed to withstand fast heavy moving vehicles used in commercial areas along with motorways/highways meeting the Class D requirements.
951 Series
Polypropylene channel with Class A rated stainless steel heel guard grates. SABdrain 951 is made out of marine grade stainless steel, which is equivalent to 316. Sleek lines and slimline design gives it the versatility to be used in a variety of locations swimming pool surrounds, shopping centres, pedestrian walkways and more.
