The main horizontal circulation design shall be level on each floor in order to ensure that the building is accessible to all people. Horizontal circulation shall be without steps. Where differences in level cannot be avoided, ramps or lifts shall be provided in accordance with B-6. Buildings should be designed, constructed and managed so that the internal layout is accessible and easily understood. All aspects of horizontal circulation, including corridors, should be designed to facilitate ease of movement for all people.
In order to avoid a tripping hazard (especially during a fire evacuation), where a raised threshold is necessary at a door opening, its maximum height shall be 12 mm, and those exceeding 5 mm shall be bevelled, and shall have a minimum difference in LRV of 30 points compared to the floor.
Routes should preferably intersect at right angles to each other and be easy to follow. To facilitate people with visual impairments, routes should have detectable cues and different visual contrast from the surroundings. For orientation and wayfinding in very complex buildings and across large areas, guidance may be provided by tactile ground surface indicators and visual, audible and tactile information, including egress and evacuation.
NOTE — Handrails can provide support for people with impaired mobility, guidance for people who are blind or have impaired vision, and can also support Braille information or tactile information.