Part M, Question

[dafydd2008]

Hi Guys,

With in building regulations part M are you required to install a disabled toilet alarm to a toilet where disabled access/sanitary ware has been installed in a commercial dwelling?

My thinking is yes however someone else has said this is not required which I am shocked by.

Currently away and haven't got a copy of the regs to hand hence the question on here.

Thanks in advance.

[Si 330]

Just had quick read through, I couldn't see a clause to get you out of fitting alarms.
So yes you do need them.

[Sam_68]

dafydd2008 said:

With in building regulations part M are you required to install a disabled toilet alarm to a toilet where disabled access/sanitary ware has been installed in a commercial dwelling?

Assuming you mean a commercial building, then the Approved Document stipulates (para 5.10) "... wheelchair accessible unisex toilets will satisfy Requirement M1 or M3 if... (item m.) ...an emergency assistance alarm system is provided...".

There is no requirement for an alarm system in the 'wheelchair accessible' entrance storey WC of a dwelling.

Of course, if you want to split hairs, the Approved Document is the Approved Document, not the Building Regulations; you are free to use an alternative solution that doesn't incorporate an alarm, but the onus would be on you to demonstrate an adequate level of functionality.

Edited by Sam_68 on Thursday 1st April 22:23

[dafydd2008]

Cheers guys, always thought you had to, however the consultant said its not needed........even in a public commercial dwelling (rehab accommodation)

I had better get the photocopier and high lighter pen ready!

[herbialfa]

The alarm should also be a strobe to assist deaf people!

[Sam_68]

dafydd2008 said:

I had better get the photocopier and high lighter pen ready!

Be careful!

I'm still struggling with your definition 'public commercial dwelling'... in Building Regulation terms that's a straight contradiction; either its a dwelling or its a 'building other than a dwelling', and the terms 'rehab' and 'commercial' don't exactly sit comfortably together, either. I couldn't comment further without knowing a lot more about the operational set-up of the facility and the design brief, but if it's run by a 'commercial' operator (ie. not a public body or RSL) I'm guessing you might be looking at a 'House in Multiple Occupation', in B.Regs terms, in which case it doesn't necessarily need to comply with the 'buildings other than dwellings' parts of Approved Document M. In any event, I would have expected the designer to have discussed the regulatory approach with the Building Control authority in detail (and there may be other standards in force beyond B.Regs; eg. NCSC).

Beware of advice to fit a 'strobe' alarm, too; there are some user groups (ie. those with a high incidence of epilepsy) where it definitely wouldn't be a bright idea (pardon the pun). There is a requirement in the Approved Document for a 'visual and audible' alarm in certain circumstances (though again, not dwellings), but that doesn't necessarily mean a 'strobe' light (and I would re-iterate that the Approved Document is not the Regulations and alternative solutions can be considered appropriate in some cases).

The bottom line is that the Architect or design consultant is responsible for conformity with the necessary regulations and is covered by their PI insurance if they get it wrong; stick to your job and let them get on with theirs. By all means raise a polite 'are you sure?', but (no disrespect) as a Contractor you stand to make a bit of a tit of yourself if you start quoting rules and regulations without having a full understanding of the facts.