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HAUC
HAUC

Working with wheelchair users in mind: Before works

Pre enabling works ahead of time enables us to see the potential risks we have on works and how we can minimise the risks to those who need additional help. This section is for surveyors, enabling operatives and any staff who are able to get to sites to complete assessments of the road network ahead of works to look at bus routes, diversions and potential areas where we would need to provide alternative walkways. This guide shows you what to consider and how to communicate with members of the public to ascertain additional requirements.

Our Safety Code states:

"You must consider the needs of children, older people and disabled people, with particular regard for visually impaired people", and you must provide: "a safe route suitable for people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, prams or pushchairs".

Even small changes cause problems. If we must close a footway as part of our planning works, then the surface we provide must be adequate for the safety of all road users.

For wheelchair users, this means we must help them to understand how we’ve changed or have plans to change the physical environment.

You must make sure that:

  • Footway and carriageways are in a good state for walking.
  • Walkways are set up as per legislation to ensure safe passage.
  • Any ramps in use must be stable, secure, with walkways wide enough to allow full swing for negotiating sites safely.
  • Routes are explained and, if appropriate, customers are guided through the site.
  • Diversions do not put the public in danger – do not divert through underpasses or dimly lit areas.
  • Changes to access and impacts on transport (Bus Stops etc), are explained.

Talk about the routes taken by wheelchair users. Make a note of them, identify ramps. Don’t make assumptions, ask questions and log any details about access and travel.

Early communication is vital, so make sure you also account for changes to transport routes which wheelchair users may want to use. Remember, those routes aren’t set by us, but this information is key to ensuring safe Street and Road works and maintaining accessibility.

Further guidance