Be prepared for the new Building Regs guidance, taking effect in England from 1 October 2024
What is an Approved Document?
Approved documents are approved by the Secretary of State and give practical guidance about how to meet the requirements of the Building Regulations 2010 for England.
What Does Doc T Cover?
- Toilet Provision for Genders:
Providing separate single-sex toilet facilities with clear and appropriate signage, with universal toilets as an additional option.
Ensuring fully enclosed universal toilets are available when space limits single-sex facilities.
- Inclusive Design:
Doc T emphasises the need for accessible design to accommodate all users, including those with disabilities.
- Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest:
Doc T addresses the need for special considerations in these buildings.
- Building Work and Material Change of Use:
Covers guidelines for new buildings and changes to existing buildings.
Emphasises the use of appropriate materials and workmanship.
Emergency Access
Doc T also outlines the requirements for emergency opening of toilet cubicles:
1. Emergency Access: The door must be capable of being opened from the outside if a person has collapsed against it while inside the toilet room or cubicle.
2. Inward Opening Doors: If the door opens inward, it must have an emergency release mechanism to allow it to be opened outward from the outside in case of an emergency.
3. General Requirements for Doors:
Doors should not obstruct emergency escape routes when opened.
They should be fitted with light action privacy bolts operable with a closed fist and suitable for people with various dexterity or strength combinations.
Doors should be as light in weight as possible and, if required to self-close, should be opened with minimal force.
They should open with one hand using a closed fist, typically using a lever handle.
These provisions ensure that in case of an emergency, such as someone collapsing inside the toilet, the door can be opened quickly and easily from the outside to provide assistance.
How to Comply With This:
Take the guesswork out of compliance with our Movana System:
Movana is the only full height cubicle system that opens outwards in an emergency without the need for specialist tools in 3 seconds.
It is Doc-M & Doc-T compliant with:
3-second access in emergency
Stunning aesthetics: full-height and luxury finish
Clear LED occupancy indicator
No heavy lifting or tools required to open in emergency
No PPE required
Intuitive use (no sacrificial access/damage required)
View more about Movana and download the new regulations here.
Need help understanding regulations? Book a chat with John, our Specification Manager.
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John is a highly committed professional who specialises in supporting clients, architects, and designers in specifying top-quality washrooms for commercial and public spaces.
He has a strong focus on reducing carbon emissions and is a passionate advocate for sustainable solutions throughout the design process.
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