Main Changes in Approved Document M (2004 Edition)

Main Changes in Approved Document M (2004 Edition)

Explanation of the changes

Access to and the use of buildings.

The 2004 edition of the Approved Document M 'Access to and use of buildings' replaces the 1999 edition entitled 'Access and facilities for disabled people'.

Under the old Part M the emphasis on access requirements centered on the needs of disabled people. The new edition aims to cater for all members of society who may have access difficulties, i.e. pregnant women, carers with small children, elderly persons and people with heavy shopping. One of the aims of the new Part M is to create an inclusive approach towards access and use of buildings. Indeed, the requirements of Part M no longer make any reference to disabled people.

The main changes relate to the scope of Part M rather than the content:

Part M now applies generally to material alterations  and extensions to existing, non-domestic buildings.

Part M applies to material changes of use to some non-domestic uses.

There is no exception for historic buildings, but this new edition of Approved Document M contains guidance on such buildings.

The guidance on dwellings remains largely unchanged from the 1999 edition.

A new section has been introduced to cover facilities in buildings other than dwellings including audience and spectator facilities as well as sleeping accommodation. Guidance is given on the positioning of switches, outlets and controls.

Guidance is given on educational establishments and clarifies the treatment of purpose-built student accommodation.

The concept of the Access Statement has been introduced for the first time. It is recommended that an Access Statement is provided to identify the philosophy and approach to inclusive design adopted, particularly when the approach taken to satisfying the requirements differs from that represented by the guidance in the Approved Document

For further information download Approved Document Part M.