Accessibility of a Construction Project

Accessibility of a Construction Project

Accessibility of a construction project is not only the developer’s social responsibility, but also a direct requirement under Ukrainian law. Ensuring barrier-free access to buildings and structures is governed by the State Building Codes (DBN), the Law of Ukraine “On Regulation of Urban Development Activities”, the Law of Ukraine “On Architectural Activity”, and other subordinate regulations.

For developers, design organizations, and property owners, accessibility is critically important at all stages—from the preparation of design documentation to commissioning the facility for operation.

What Does Accessibility in Construction Mean?

Accessibility (inclusive design) is a set of architectural, engineering, and planning solutions that ensure unhindered access to a facility for:

• persons with disabilities;

• persons with reduced mobility (PRM);

• older persons;

• parents with strollers;

• persons with temporary mobility limitations.

The key regulatory document in this area is DBN V.2.2-40:2018 “Accessibility of Buildings and Structures”, which sets mandatory requirements for site planning, entrances, evacuation routes, sanitary facilities, lifts/elevators, wayfinding and information signage, and other elements.

Regulatory Framework for Accessibility of a Construction Project

Ensuring accessibility is mandatory for:

• new construction;

• reconstruction;

• major (capital) repairs;

• restoration of facilities.

In accordance with applicable legislation:

1. Design documentation must include a section addressing accessibility for persons with reduced mobility (PRM).

2. During project expert review, compliance with DBN requirements is verified.

3. When commissioning a facility for operation, state architectural and construction control authorities verify the actual implementation of accessibility requirements.

Failure to comply with the standards may constitute grounds for:

• refusal to issue a readiness/commissioning certificate;

• administrative fines;

• court disputes;

• an obligation to remedy violations at the developer’s/owner’s own expense.

Core Accessibility Requirements for Buildings

1. Accessible Site

• Barrier-free approach to the building.

• Ramps with code-compliant slope.

• Tactile elements for persons with visual impairments.

• Parking spaces designated for persons with disabilities.

2. Entrance Area

• Minimum clear width of doorways.

• No thresholds, or thresholds limited to a minimal height.

• Automatic doors or doors that are easy to open.

3. Vertical Circulation

• Elevators with sufficient internal dimensions.

• Handrails on staircases.

• High-contrast marking of stair edges.

4. Sanitary and Hygiene Facilities

• Specially equipped accessible restrooms.

• Maneuvering space for a wheelchair user.

• Grab bars and emergency assistance call buttons.

When Is an Accessibility Audit Necessary?

An accessibility audit is advisable in the following cases:

• before submitting documentation for expert review;

• before commissioning the facility for operation;

• during reconstruction of existing buildings;

• in the event of inspections by supervisory authorities.

A professional audit helps identify non-compliance issues before an official inspection and minimizes financial risks.

Common Developer Mistakes

1. Including an “Accessibility” section in a purely formal manner, without properly developing the solutions.

2. Non-compliance with the code-required ramp slope.

3. Lack of adequate maneuvering space in restrooms.

4. Elevator dimensions not meeting DBN requirements.

5. Ignoring tactile wayfinding.

Such violations often result in the need to rework elements that have already been constructed, which significantly increases the project budget.

Accessibility as a Competitive Advantage

For commercial real estate (shopping malls, business centers, hotels, medical facilities), accessibility is not only a legal requirement, but also:

• an expansion of the target audience;

• an enhancement of brand reputation;

• alignment with international standards;

• greater attractiveness for foreign investors.

This is particularly relevant for facilities that cooperate with international companies or plan to obtain certification under ESG standards.

Comprehensive Support for Ensuring Accessibility

GlobalBud Ukraine provides a full range of services related to ensuring accessibility of construction projects:

• preparation of the accessibility section as part of the design documentation;

• technical audit for compliance with DBN requirements;

• legal support throughout the expert review process;

• support during commissioning of the facility for operation;

• consulting regarding reconstruction of existing facilities.

More details about the services are available in the sections:

• “Design of Construction Projects”

• “Construction Expert Review”

• “Commissioning of Facilities”

• “Legal Support in the Construction Sector”

Conclusion

Accessibility of a construction project is a mandatory component of modern design and real estate development. Failure to comply with accessibility requirements creates legal, financial, and reputational risks for the developer.

By contacting GlobalBud Ukraine, you will receive professional support from experienced engineers and lawyers who will ensure that your facility complies with the requirements of Ukrainian legislation. We provide “turnkey” services—from concept to commissioning—and work with both individuals and legal entities, including international companies.

Contact us to obtain a professional consultation and minimize risks already at the design stage.