Vertical circulation refers to movement from one storey to another. Transferring from floor to floor can be achieved via stairs or via a passenger lift.

The key principles of accessible vertical circulation are:

• that every floor is accessible – via lifts and stairs
• moving from floor to floor should be safe and easy
• independent access for everyone

Stairs

Stairs should be suitable for everyone who might wish to use them. The guidance is broadly similar to that for external steps (see section on External ramps and steps). However, internal steps do not require hazard warnings at the top and bottom landings (although tactile warnings may be incorporated into landings).

Internal stairs should be accompanied by handrails that contrast visually with the background wall, without being highly reflective. These should continue for 300mm beyond the top and the bottom of stairs.

The stairs should be well lit so that they stand out visually from the pedestrian route. Highlighted ‘nosings’ should be provided on the edges of both the riser and the tread of the steps, which will help visually impaired people to identify individual steps. Open risers should always be avoided, as they can be a trip hazard, and may cause visual confusion.

Passenger lifts

For people who cannot (or prefer not to) use stairs, a passenger lift is the most suitable form of access from one storey to another.

Passenger lifts should:

• provide access to all levels within a building
• be large enough for use by a wheelchair user and at least one other person
• incorporate doorways that are sufficiently wide for all users
• include visual and audible signalling to indicate which floor the lift has reached
• have lift controls that are at the correct height for wheelchair users to operate, and incorporate tactile and Braille buttons
• incorporate an emergency alarm and communication system that is easy to use and positioned at an accessible height

Approved Document M has more detailed information on the design of passenger lifts.

 The diagram below indicates key lift car dimensions.