Minimum Landing Length
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AS 1428.1 compliant dimension
Accessible ramp design tool for DDA and BCA compliance
Calculate ramp landing dimensions, verify AS 1428.1 compliance, and ensure wheelchair accessibility. Free tool for architects, builders, and access consultants.
Professional accessible design tool for compliant ramp systems
Calculate ramp landing dimensions per Australian Standard AS 1428.1-2021 Design for Access and Mobility. Ensures wheelchair maneuverability, safe transitions, and compliance with Building Code of Australia accessibility requirements for 2026 construction.
Determine landing length, width, and positioning for intermediate landings, direction changes, and top/bottom terminations. Includes gradient verification, handrail requirements, and kerb upstand specifications for fully compliant accessible ramp systems.
Essential for architects, building designers, access consultants, and certifiers working on residential, commercial, and public buildings. Generates dimensions suitable for tender documentation, DA submissions, and construction certification throughout Australia.
Enter ramp specifications below
A ramp landing is a level platform provided within a ramp system to allow wheelchair users and people with mobility aids to rest, change direction, or negotiate doors safely. According to AS 1428.1-2021 Design for Access and Mobility, landings are mandatory at specific intervals along ramps, at all direction changes, and at top and bottom terminations. The Ramp Landing Size Calculator determines compliant dimensions for residential, commercial, and public building applications throughout Australia in 2026.
Proper landing design ensures wheelchair users can stop safely on level ground without risk of rolling backward, provides space for turning or repositioning mobility devices, and creates safe zones for opening doors without obstruction. All ramp systems must incorporate landings at prescribed locations with minimum dimensions specified by AS 1428.1 to achieve compliance with Building Code of Australia Premises Standards and Disability Discrimination Act requirements.
Typical intermediate landing showing minimum dimensions per AS 1428.1
Australian Standard AS 1428.1-2021 establishes prescriptive dimensional requirements for ramp landings based on landing type, ramp configuration, and presence of door swings or direction changes. Understanding these requirements is fundamental to accessible ramp design and building code compliance.
AS 1428.1 requires minimum 1200mm landing length in the direction of ramp travel for intermediate landings. Top and bottom landings must provide 1200mm minimum clear of any door swing. Where doors open toward the ramp, add full door width plus 300mm to landing length for safe door operation.
Landing width must equal or exceed the ramp width it serves, with 1000mm absolute minimum for single ramps. For direction-change landings (90° or 180° turns), provide 1540mm x 1540mm minimum clear maneuvering space to accommodate wheelchair turning circles and mobility aid repositioning.
Intermediate landings are mandatory when vertical rise exceeds 525mm (approximately 7-10 meters horizontal distance depending on gradient). For ramps steeper than 1:20, maximum rise reduces to 350mm between landings. This prevents user fatigue and provides regular rest points on longer ramp runs.
Intermediate landings break long ramp runs into manageable segments, providing level rest areas where users can pause without risk of rolling backward. These landings occur within the ramp flight when vertical rise between levels exceeds maximum permissible run distance.
Example: 525mm rise at 1:14 gradient = 525 × 14 = 7,350mm (7.35m) maximum ramp run before landing required
Ramp termination points at top and bottom require specific landing provisions to ensure safe transitions between ramp and adjacent floor levels, accommodate door operations, and provide maneuvering space for wheelchair users entering or exiting the ramp system.
The top landing represents the upper termination of the ramp flight, typically connecting to building entrance thresholds, doorways, or elevated floor levels. Top landings must accommodate the full arc of door swings while maintaining required clear dimensions.
Doors opening toward ramps: When any door opens toward a ramp or landing, AS 1428.1 requires the landing to extend beyond the full door swing by minimum 300mm. A standard 920mm door would require 1220mm landing length (920 + 300), plus any additional clearance for door hardware operation. This prevents users from being pushed backward down the ramp when doors open. For building entrances requiring access road integration, coordinate landing levels with approach path gradients.
Top landing minimum dimensions: 1200mm length (parallel to ramp) × ramp width (minimum 1000mm), increased by door swing requirements if applicable. Where the top landing serves as an entry platform to buildings, consider providing 1540mm x 1540mm to facilitate wheelchair maneuvering and multiple simultaneous users.
Bottom landings connect ramps to ground level, external pathways, or lower floor levels. These landings must integrate with surrounding ground surfaces while maintaining compliant gradients and providing weather-appropriate drainage.
When ramps change direction through 90-degree (L-shaped) or 180-degree (switchback) configurations, the connecting landing must provide adequate space for wheelchair users to negotiate the turn without requiring complex maneuvering or backing up. Direction change landings have more stringent dimensional requirements than straight-through intermediate landings.
Quarter-turn landings connecting perpendicular ramp flights must accommodate the turning circle of wheelchairs and mobility scooters. AS 1428.1 specifies minimum 1540mm x 1540mm clear landing dimension measured from the start of ramp gradients in both directions.
This provides adequate turning radius for standard manual wheelchairs (turning circle typically 1500mm) plus safety margin
Switchback or U-turn ramps require landings capable of accommodating complete direction reversal. While the 1540mm x 1540mm minimum technically applies, practical considerations for comfortable maneuvering often warrant larger platforms, especially for mobility scooters or powered wheelchairs with wider turning radii.
For switchback ramps serving public buildings or high-traffic areas, consider 1800mm x 1800mm landings to facilitate multi-user scenarios and provide comfortable turning space for all mobility device types. Include additional clearance if handrails project into the turning space or if weather protection structures reduce effective landing area.
While AS 1428.1 establishes minimum dimensions, providing generous landing sizes improves usability and reduces user stress. For commercial and public buildings, consider 1800-2000mm square landings at direction changes, especially where elevated platforms connect to building entries. The modest cost increase (typically $400-800 per landing) significantly enhances accessibility quality and reduces risk of future modification requirements.
Ramp gradient directly affects both user effort and required landing frequency. AS 1428.1-2021 specifies maximum gradients based on vertical rise and application type, with gentler slopes preferred for accessibility and comfort.
| Gradient | Rise:Run Ratio | Percentage | Max. Rise Per Flight | Typical Application | User Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:14 | 1:14 | 7.1% | 525mm | Maximum allowable (short runs) | High effort |
| 1:16 | 1:16 | 6.25% | 525mm | Moderate accessibility standard | Moderate effort |
| 1:20 | 1:20 | 5.0% | 525mm | Preferred for public buildings | Low effort |
| 1:25 | 1:25 | 4.0% | No limit* | Gentle, universal access | Minimal effort |
| 1:33 | 1:33 | 3.0% | No limit* | Borderline ramp/path | Very low effort |
*Note: Gradients gentler than 1:20 are technically not classified as ramps under AS 1428.1, though they may still require handrails if total rise exceeds 190mm. Landings remain advisable at regular intervals for user convenience even when not mandated by standard.
While the primary ramp gradient runs in the direction of travel, cross-fall (slope across the width of the ramp or landing) must be minimized to prevent wheelchairs drifting sideways. AS 1428.1 permits maximum 1:40 (2.5%) cross-fall on ramps and landings, primarily for drainage purposes on outdoor installations.
Indoor ramps should ideally have zero cross-fall with drainage managed through building systems. For outdoor ramps and landings, design minimum practical cross-fall consistent with surface material and expected rainfall intensity, typically 1:80 to 1:60 (1.25-1.67%) in most Australian climates. Ensure drainage direction leads away from buildings and does not create ponding in wheelchair travel path.
Handrails and edge protection are mandatory safety features of accessible ramp systems, providing support for users and preventing wheels, crutches, or canes from slipping off ramp edges. AS 1428.1 specifies detailed requirements for handrail height, configuration, extensions, and edge upstand dimensions.
All ramps must have continuous handrails on both sides extending the full length of the ramp including landings. Handrails must be provided at two heights: 865-875mm for adults, and 665-675mm for children or seated wheelchair users (typically required only in specific contexts like schools or children's facilities).
A continuous kerb upstand or edge protection barrier prevents wheelchair footrests, casters, walking aid tips, and canes from slipping off ramp or landing edges. This is especially critical where ramps have unprotected edges adjacent to drops, garden beds, or roadways.
Compliant edge barrier systems: Kerb upstand minimum 75mm height extending full length of ramp and landings; solid infill panels between 150-865mm above ramp surface preventing passage of 100mm sphere; or continuous handrail at maximum 75mm above surface. For basement access ramps, ensure kerb upstands are structurally integrated with retaining walls to prevent lateral displacement under load.
Ramp and landing surfaces must provide adequate slip resistance in wet and dry conditions while remaining suitable for wheeled mobility devices. AS 1428.1 and AS 4586 establish performance criteria for slip resistance appropriate to accessible pathways and ramps.
AS 4586 Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials specifies testing methods and classification systems. For accessible ramps and landings, target minimum P4 classification (wet pendulum friction value 40-44) for external surfaces, or P3 (35-39) for covered or internal locations with minimal wet exposure.
| Surface Material | Slip Rating | Accessibility | Durability | Cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broom Finish Concrete | P4-P5 | Excellent | Very High | $85-110/m² |
| Exposed Aggregate | P5 | Good-Excellent | Very High | $120-165/m² |
| Asphalt/Hotmix | P3-P4 | Excellent | High | $70-95/m² |
| Interlocking Pavers | P3-P4 | Good* | High | $95-140/m² |
| Timber Decking | P2-P4** | Fair-Good | Moderate | $140-220/m² |
| Metal Grating | P4-P5 | Fair*** | Very High | $180-280/m² |
*Pavers must be installed with minimal joint gaps (3-5mm) filled with sand; wider gaps catch wheels and walking aid tips. **Timber slip resistance varies greatly with species, grain orientation, and treatment; specify tested products with certified P4 wet rating. ***Metal grating can be uncomfortable for walking aid users and may present visual challenges; use only where other materials impractical.
Durable, low-maintenance construction is essential for ramp landings subject to weather exposure, regular traffic, and potential impact from mobility devices. Material selection and construction methodology affect both initial cost and long-term serviceability of accessible ramp systems.
Reinforced concrete represents the most common landing material for permanent ramp installations, offering excellent durability, customizable slip resistance, and structural capacity for any loading condition. Typical concrete landing construction methodology:
For landing construction costs and concrete volume calculations, refer to the aggregate quantity calculator to estimate material requirements based on landing dimensions and slab thickness specifications.
Timber deck construction suits residential applications, retrofit situations, and environments where concrete placement is impractical. Use H4 or H5 treated pine for ground-contact structural members (bearers and joists), with H3 minimum for decking boards elevated above ground level. Hardwood species like spotted gum or ironbark provide superior durability and slip resistance for external ramp applications.
Timber landing design considerations: minimum 90x45mm H4 joists at 450mm centers for ramp landings; 140x45mm H4 bearers on concrete footings or galvanized steel posts; decking boards 90-140mm wide with 5mm maximum gaps; all fixings must be 316 stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized to AS/NZS 4680. Diagonal bracing required for freestanding structures exceeding 600mm above ground level.
Regular maintenance essential: Timber ramps and landings require inspection every 6-12 months for fastener corrosion, board deterioration, and slip resistance degradation. Expect to clean and recoat surfaces annually with slip-resistant decking oil or coating systems. Budget $25-45/m² annual maintenance for timber systems versus $5-10/m² for concrete. Despite higher maintenance, timber may be preferred for heritage buildings, temporary installations, or where lightweight outdoor platforms integrate with existing timber structures.
Ramp landing construction costs vary with material selection, site access, existing conditions, and compliance requirements. The following estimates reflect typical Australian commercial construction costs for 2026, including materials, labour, and compliance documentation.
Total installed cost for concrete ramp landings typically ranges $850-1,450 per landing for standard residential applications (1.2m x 1.2m), up to $2,500-4,200 for large commercial direction-change landings (1.8m x 1.8m) with premium finishes and full handrail systems.
Timber platform landings cost $1,200-2,400 for residential-scale installations, while modular aluminum ramp systems with integrated landings range $2,800-4,500 per landing section installed. Precast concrete landing units offer rapid installation for commercial projects at $1,800-3,200 per unit including crane placement and connections.
AS 1428.1-2021 specifies minimum 1200mm landing length (in direction of travel) and width equal to ramp width (1000mm minimum) for straight-through intermediate landings. Direction-change landings require 1540mm x 1540mm clear maneuvering space. Top and bottom landings need 1200mm minimum, increased by full door swing width plus 300mm when doors open toward the ramp. These dimensions ensure wheelchair users can safely stop, rest, and maneuver without risk.
Intermediate landings are mandatory every 525mm of vertical rise for ramps at 1:14 to 1:20 gradient (approximately 7-10 meters horizontal distance depending on slope). For ramps steeper than 1:20, landings are required every 350mm vertical rise. Additionally, landings must be provided at all direction changes, door locations, top and bottom terminations, and anywhere the ramp intersects with other circulation paths. More frequent landings improve accessibility even when not mandated.
Landings must be essentially level in the direction of travel (maximum 1:60 or 1.67% for drainage). Cross-fall (slope across the width) is permitted up to maximum 1:40 (2.5%) for outdoor locations requiring drainage. Indoor landings should have zero cross-fall. Any slope exceeding these limits means the surface is technically part of the ramp run, not a landing, and the full 1200mm level dimension must be provided beyond the sloped section.
Yes, residential ramps must comply with AS 1428.1 landing requirements when constructed for accessible housing under NCC Volume One (apartments, units) or Volume Two (Class 1a buildings claiming accessible features). Private residential ramps may use slightly reduced dimensions in some jurisdictions, but best practice recommends full AS 1428.1 compliance for safety and potential future residents. Minimum 1200mm landings at top, bottom, and every 525mm rise apply to residential ramps.
When doors open toward a ramp or landing, AS 1428.1 requires the landing to extend minimum 300mm beyond the full arc of door swing. This prevents doors pushing wheelchair users backward down the slope when opening. For a standard 920mm door, the landing must be at least 1220mm (920 + 300) from door threshold to start of ramp gradient. Doors opening away from ramps need only standard 1200mm landing dimension. Consider specifying automatic or side-sliding doors for ramp entries to eliminate swing conflicts.
Broom-finish concrete provides the optimal combination of slip resistance (P4-P5 rating), durability, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness for most ramp landing applications. Broom perpendicular to travel direction for maximum grip. Exposed aggregate concrete offers superior slip resistance (P5) with attractive appearance suitable for commercial and public buildings. Asphalt works well for large-scale external ramps and pathways. Avoid smooth-troweled concrete, polished surfaces, and unsealed timber which become dangerously slippery when wet.
Yes, handrails must be continuous through ramp landings, extending the full length of the ramp system including all landing areas. Handrails must extend minimum 300mm horizontally beyond the start and end of each ramp gradient (measured on the level). This means handrails continue across landings connecting ramp flights. Handrails can only terminate at building entry thresholds or where the ramp system ends and connects to other circulation paths. Both sides require handrails at 865-875mm height.
This calculator provides AS 1428.1-2021 compliant dimensions suitable for commercial, public, and residential applications. Results are appropriate for preliminary design, concept development, and budget estimation. Final documentation for commercial buildings should be prepared or verified by registered architects, access consultants, or building designers familiar with NCC compliance and local authority requirements. The calculator addresses typical scenarios; complex configurations may require professional assessment to ensure full compliance with accessibility standards and building codes.
Access AS 1428.1-2021 Design for Access and Mobility standard for complete ramp and landing requirements, dimensional specifications, and accessibility design guidelines.
View AS 1428 Standards →National Construction Code accessibility provisions, Premises Standards compliance, and BCA performance requirements for accessible ramps in Australian buildings.
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