🤗 Accessible Space Design Templates

🤗 Creating inclusive outdoor environments for all abilities

🤗 Wheelchair and Turning Circle Templates

Template Manual Wheelchair A4
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Assisted Wheelchair Template A4
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Powered Wheelchair Template A4.
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Wheelchair Transfer Points - NZS 5828:2015 Compliance

What Are Wheelchair Transfer Points?

Transfer points are designated areas where wheelchair users can safely transition from their mobility device to playground equipment. These are critical for accessibility in playgrounds under New Zealand standards.

Key Requirements from NZS 5828:2015

  1. Location & Number

    • Must be provided for all elevated play components accessible via ramps or transfer systems

    • At least one transfer point required per play structure

    • Additional transfer points recommended for large structures

  2. Clear Floor Space

    • Minimum 900mm × 1200mm clear space adjacent to transfer point

    • Must be level (max 2% cross slope) and free of obstacles

  3. Transfer Platform Specifications

    • Height: 500mm - 600mm from ground surface

    • Depth: Minimum 600mm

    • Width: Minimum 800mm

    • Must support minimum 250kg load capacity

  4. Approach & Maneuvering

    • Clear approach path of 1500mm width minimum

    • Turning circle of 1500mm diameter required adjacent to transfer point

    • Firm, stable surface (tested to NZS 5828 impact attenuation requirements)

  5. Support Features

    • Handholds required on both sides of transfer point

    • Gripping surfaces between 30mm-50mm diameter

    • Handhold height between 600mm-800mm above platform

  6. Edge Protection

    • 25mm minimum edge radius on transfer surfaces

    • Contrasting color to assist with visual identification

    • Non-slip surface with texture differentiation

Additional Best Practices

  • Locate transfer points near accessible pathways

  • Provide transfer opportunities at multiple heights where possible

  • Include intermediate transfer points on long ramps

  • Ensure clear sight lines for supervision

NZS 5828:2015 Compliance Checklist

Requirement Template Page Verification Method
Transfer height 500-600mm p.4, Sect.2.1 Measure from surfacing
900×1200mm clear space p.5, Fig.3 Laser measure zone
Handhold diameter 30-50mm p.7, Spec.4 Caliper measurement
Max 2% cross slope p.8, Sect.3.2 Digital level check

Ramp Design for Accessible Playgrounds

(NZS 5828:2015 Compliance Guide)

1. Gradient Requirements

Key Standards:

  • Maximum Gradient: 1:14 (7.1%) for ramps ≤ 3m long

  • Preferred Gradient: 1:16 (6.25%) for ramps > 3m long

  • Landing Slopes: ≤1:50 (2%) in all directions

  • Handrail Height: 600–800mm from ramp surface

Template Note:
"For ramps exceeding 9m in length, provide intermediate rest platforms (min. 1500mm long)."

2. Clearance & Width Specifications

Feature Minimum Requirement Diagram Ref
Clear Width 1200mm (between handrails) A
Headroom 2000mm vertical clearance B
Landing Size 1500mm × 1500mm C
Edge Protection 50mm min. curb height D

Design Tip:
"Widen to 1500mm at turns or where two wheelchairs may pass."

3. Handrail & Safety Details

NZS 5828:2015 Requirements:

  • Double Handrails: Required on both sides if ramp rise > 150mm

  • Diameter: 30–50mm (round or oval shape)

  • Extensions: 300mm beyond ramp top/bottom

  • Contrast: Luminance contrast ≥ 30% from ramp color

Included in Templates:
✔ Layer-toggleable handrail options
✔ Customizable textures (e.g., tactile indicators)

4. Rest Platform Design

Key Features:

  • Location: Every 9m of ramp length

  • Size: 1500mm × 1500mm (absolute minimum)

  • Turning Circle: 1500mm diameter (for wheelchair 360° turns)

  • Surface: Same material as ramp (no tripping hazards)

Template Annotation Example:
"Platforms must connect seamlessly to ramp slopes (max 5mm lip)."

5. Compliance Checklist

(Fillable PDF Field for Inspectors)

Checkpoint Pass Fail Notes
Gradient ≤ 1:14 ☐ ☐
1200mm clear width ☐ ☐
Landing slopes ≤ 1:50 ☐ ☐
Handrail extensions present ☐ ☐

6. Surface Materials Guide

NZS-Approved Options:

  • Wet-Pour Rubber: Must meet AS/NZS 4422 impact attenuation

  • Concrete: Brush-finished with non-slip additive (R10 rating)

  • Composite Decking: Max 5mm gap between planks

❗ "Avoid open gratings or gaps >10mm in ramp surfaces.

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