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Find out more11 December 2020
Following the Government’s consultation on Changing Places toilets, amendments to Approved Document M, Volume 2 have been released that will apply to certain buildings from 1 January 2021.
The amendments relate to certain buildings other than dwellings and require enhanced facilities for individuals with complex and multiple impairments who may require the support of up to two assistants
The changes involve the replacement of the existing paragraph 5.6 and insertion of a new sub-paragraph 5.7(e) into Approved Document M, Volume 2. The new paragraph requires the installation of changing places toilet facilities in addition to any wheelchair-accessible accommodation in separate-sex toilet washrooms, wheelchair-accessible unisex toilet facilities and baby changing facilities.
New sub-paragraph 5.7(e) lists the building types where at least one changing places toilet is to be provided, in summary:
Reference is made to section 18.6, diagram 48 and annexes F and G of BS 8300-2:2018 ‘Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment. Part 2: Buildings - Code of practice’; as well as the Changing Places Consortium campaign website (www.changing-places.org) for layout and equipment requirements.
This includes facilities such as a WC, hoist, basin, adult-sized changing bench and optional shower. For any building type listed in paragraph 5.7(e), referenced guidance will need to be reviewed to demonstrate compliance.
The changes will apply to any initial notice given on, or after 1 January 2021, and to any initial notice given before this date where the works do not start before 1 March 2021.
Amendments to Approved Document M Volume 2
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