One Small Step for Man – A Simple Yet Effective Access Solution

01. Introduction

In this seemingly straightforward case, our client required shallow steps to improve mobility and safely access their home. However, what appeared to be a simple task was complicated by existing obstructions near the doorway, making traditional access solutions like concrete or timber platforms impractical. Despite the challenges posed by the site, PARS RAMPS stepped in with a modular solution that was both quick to install and perfectly tailored to the client’s needs.

02. Challenge

At first glance, the project seemed like it would be an easy installation. However, the site presented several issues that rendered traditional construction methods more problematic:

Nearby Drain and Inspection Chamber: A drain and inspection chamber located near the doorway ruled out the possibility of installing a concrete or timber platform, as both solutions would have required costly alterations and could block essential access to the drainage system.

Safety and Comfort Considerations: A simple step outside the door would not have met the client’s safety needs. A singular step without a handrail or resting platform would have been too steep, posing a potential hazard to the client. A safe and accessible solution was paramount.

Regulatory and Aesthetic Concerns: Any solution needed to meet modern safety and accessibility standards, ensuring the client could use it confidently. In addition, the design had to be minimally invasive, both to the landscape and the building itself, and easily removable in the future.

03. Solution

PARS RAMPS specialises in modular access systems designed to fit around obstacles and meet regulatory requirements, and this project was no exception. We quickly devised a custom solution to provide safe and seamless access to the client’s home while avoiding the complex groundwork typically associated with more traditional methods.

Key Features of the Design

Modular Platform and Steps: Instead of a large, permanent concrete or timber platform, we installed a lightweight modular platform complete with adjustable risers and handrails. These steps were carefully configured to match the height and gradient requirements, ensuring safe and comfortable use. Our modular system can accommodate as many steps as necessary, allowing us to create the perfect configuration for the client’s specific needs.

Minimal Ground Impact: One of the standout features of our modular system is its ability to be installed with minimal ground disruption. In this case, our framework—measuring as shallow as 45mm (less than two inches)—was able to “glide” over the top of the drain and inspection chamber. This meant we avoided costly excavation or relocation of services while retaining full access to the drainage system.

Handrails for Added Safety: Given the client’s mobility concerns, we ensured the installation included handrails on both sides of the steps. These handrails provided the support and security the client needed when entering or exiting their home, greatly improving safety compared to a standard step.

Quick Installation and Easy Removal: Our modular system was installed in just a few hours, causing minimal disruption to the client. Even better, should the client no longer need the steps in the future, the system can be easily dismantled in less than an hour, leaving no trace of the installation. This non-invasive approach also ensures that access to the inspection chamber remains available for maintenance.

04. Conclusion

This case is a great example of how even the simplest of access requirements can be complicated by site conditions—especially when using traditional construction methods. However, PARS RAMPS’ modular system provided an innovative and efficient solution, bypassing costly groundwork and ensuring that the client’s safety and mobility needs were met in full.

By installing the modular platform with shallow steps and a handrail, we were able to navigate around the existing obstructions while delivering a safe and secure access solution. The installation was completed quickly and with minimal disruption, and should the client’s needs change, the system can be modified or removed with ease.