Shelter accessibility has to be designed as a route, not added as one device

Two regulatory contexts have to be coordinated

DBN V.2.2-5:2023 contains shelter-specific requirements and repeatedly refers to the Ukrainian building regulation on accessibility of buildings and structures, DBN V.2.2-40:2018.

Because the accessibility regulation has amendments and provisions with their own effective dates, the project team should verify the current official edition rather than rely on an old checklist.

Accessibility affects the occupied space as well as the route

For relevant public and residential shelter scenarios, the shelter standard provides for a free zone for persons with disabilities in the main occupied room and allows area per person to increase where the layout, furniture and accessibility requirements require it.

What should be checked along the route

• an unobstructed route from the accessible part of the building or site;
• level changes, stairs, ramps or lifting devices;
• door and passage widths and configuration;
• whether the entrance remains usable during the shelter-use scenario;
• wayfinding and applicable visual, tactile or contrast information;
• accessible sanitary facilities and occupied zones.

Vertical access should be resolved early

When a shelter is below ground level, the means of vertical movement should be coordinated with structure, power supply, openings and the evacuation concept early in design. Adding a lift or platform after the layout is frozen can change more than one discipline and the project budget.

Questions for the project team

• which user groups with reduced mobility are included in the design basis;
• how they reach the shelter under the intended operating scenario;
• where accessible places are provided inside the occupied area;
• how sanitary needs are addressed;
• which current DBN V.2.2-40 provisions have been applied.