Introduction

The following information is intended to introduce the key elements of Part K: Protection From Falling, Collision and Impact. Wherever possible the relevant document contents or sections are included with each set of regulations.

Use the link below for the full building regulations document;

• Note: All information is current as of January 2006, as is subject to change.

Stairs, Ladders and Ramps

Stairs, ladders and ramps shall be designed, constructed and installed as to be safe for the people moving between different levels in or about a building.
K1. (1) Stairs, Ladders and Ramps

Note: Requirement K1 only applies to stairs, ladders and ramps which form part of the building

(a) Any stairs, ramps, floors and balconies and any roof for which people have access, and
(b) any light well, basement area or similar sunken area connected to a building, shall be provided with barriers where it is necessary to protect people in or about the building from falling
K2. (1) Protection from falling

Note: Requirement K2(a) only applies to stairs, ladders and ramps which form part of the building

Section 1: Stairs and Ladders
Section 2: Ramps

Pedestrian and Vehicle Barriers

Vehicle ramps and any levels in a building to which vehicles have access, shall be provided with barriers where it is necessary to protect people in or about the building.
K3. (1) Vehicle barriers and loading bays

Vehicle loading bays shall be constructed in such a way, or be provided with such features, as may be necessary to protect people in them from collision with vehicles.
K3. (2) Vehicle barriers and loading bays

Section 3: Guards and Barriers

Protection from collision with open window etc

Provision shall be made to prevent people moving in or about the building from colliding with open windows, skylights or ventilators.
K4. (1) Protection from collision with open windows etc

Note: Requirement K4 does not apply to dwellings

Section 4: Protection from Collision

Protection against impact from and trapping by doors

Provision shall be made to prevent any door or gate:
(a) which slides or opens upwards, from falling onto any person, and
(b) which is powered, from trapping any person.
K5. (1) Protection against impact from and trapping by doors

Provision shall be made for powered doors and gates to be opened in the event of power failure.
K5. (2) Protection against impact from and trapping by doors

Provision shall be made to ensure a clear view of the space on either side of a swing door or gate.
K5. (3) Protection against impact from and trapping by doors

Note: Requirement K5 does not apply to;
(a) dwellings, or
(b) any door or gate which is part of a lift.

Section 5: Protection against impact

Further information and useful links

• Making structural changes to your property
• Full guide to the building regulations

• Find a Builder near you
• Find an Architect near you
• Find an Chartered Surveyor near you

• Building Regulations an explanatory booklet (odpm.gov.uk)
• Party Wall Guidance (rics.org)
• Impact of the Party Wall Act 1996 (odpm.gov.uk)