Access Ramp and Slope Requirements

Temporary access ramps provide pedestrian and vehicle routes between different ground levels on construction sites.
Ramps must be designed for the loads they will carry including pedestrians, wheelbarrows, and small plant.
Maximum gradients for pedestrian ramps should not exceed 1 in 12, with rest platforms on longer runs.
Vehicle ramps for plant and delivery vehicles require shallower gradients and wider running surfaces.
Non-slip surfaces are essential — ramps become extremely hazardous when wet, muddy, or frosty.
Edge protection including handrails and toeboards is required where there is a risk of falling from the ramp.
Ramp foundations must be stable and not undermine adjacent excavations or structures.
Temporary ramps are classified as temporary works and should be included in the TW register.
Regular inspection is needed — ramps deteriorate quickly under heavy use and weather exposure.
Disabled access requirements may apply for ramps used by workers or visitors with mobility impairments.

Slip and fall	Slippery, steep, or poorly maintained ramps are a common cause of slip and fall injuries on construction sites.
Plant overturning	Vehicles using ramps that are too steep, narrow, or soft can overturn or lose control.
Access for all	Ramps must be usable by all workers including those with mobility limitations, as required by the Equality Act.

Do

Don't

Design pedestrian ramps with a maximum gradient of 1 in 12 and rest landings on long runs
Apply non-slip surfacing to all ramp running surfaces including mesh, grit, or timber cleats
Install handrails on both sides of pedestrian ramps where there is a fall risk
Inspect ramps regularly and after wet weather, frost, or heavy use
Ensure vehicle ramps are wide enough and graded to suit the plant that will use them
Provide edge protection where the ramp is raised above the surrounding ground level
Include temporary ramps in the site temporary works register
Clear mud, ice, and debris from ramp surfaces daily to maintain safe traction
Ensure ramp foundations do not undermine adjacent excavations or structures
Consider disabled access requirements for ramps used by workers and visitors

DON'T build pedestrian ramps steeper than 1 in 12 without a specific risk assessment
DON'T use ramps without non-slip surfaces — wet or icy ramps cause serious falls
DON'T allow vehicles onto ramps that are not designed for the vehicle weight and width
DON'T omit handrails on ramps where there is a risk of falling from the edge
DON'T leave damaged or deteriorated ramps in service — repair or replace them
DON'T ignore mud and ice build-up on ramp surfaces — clean them at least daily
DON'T build ramp foundations that undermine the stability of adjacent excavations
DON'T allow ramps to bounce, deflect, or flex under pedestrian or vehicle loads
DON'T use scaffold boards as makeshift ramps without adequate support and fixing
DON'T forget that ramps need inspection like any other temporary access structure

See also: Temporary Access Safety Awareness | Slips, Trips and Falls Awareness

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