Vehicle barriers

For all buildings

4.1 If vehicles have access to a floor, roof or ramp which forms part of a building, provide barriers at any edges which are level with or above the floor or ground or any other route for vehicles (see Diagram 4.1).

Diagram 4.1 Barrier siting

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4.2 Barriers should be provided in accordance with all of the following.

a. You can use any wall, parapet, balustrade or similar obstacle as a barrier.

b. Construct barriers to be, as a minimum, the height shown in Diagram 4.2.

c. Ensure that barriers can resist the loads given in BS EN 1991-1-1 with its UK National Annex and PD 6688-1-1.

Diagram 4.2. Barrier design

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Loading bays

For all buildings

4.3 Loading bays should be constructed with exit points in accordance with both of the following.

a. Provide loading bays with a minimum of one exit point from the lower level, as near the centre of the rear wall as possible.

b. For wide loading bays (for three or more vehicles), provide a minimum of two stepped exit points, one on each side, or provide a refuge where people can avoid the path of a vehicle in addition to one stepped exit point (see Diagram 4.3).

Guarding for loading bays

For all buildings

4.4 Where there is a danger of people falling, loading bays should be provided with guarding as per the guidance provided in this approved document. If guarding is not practical for the particular circumstances, alternative safeguards should be provided and agreed with the building control body.

Diagram 4.3 Loading bay

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Section 4: Vehicle Barriers and Loading Bays