Accessibility Compliance Review under DBN B.2.2-40:2018

Accessibility Compliance Review under DBN B.2.2-40:2018

Accessibility Compliance Review under DBN B.2.2-40:2018 is a comprehensive assessment of a building, structure, or site for compliance with the inclusivity and barrier-free accessibility requirements established by the state building standards of Ukraine. Such a review makes it possible to determine whether persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility (PRM) can use the facility without hindrance.

The requirements are governed by DBN B.2.2-40:2018 “Inclusiveness of Buildings and Structures”, which is mandatory for the design, reconstruction, and major renovation of buildings.

What Is an Accessibility Compliance Review under DBN B.2.2-40:2018

An accessibility compliance review is a real estate asset audit during which specialists analyze whether a building or site complies with barrier-free accessibility requirements.

The assessment includes:

• accessibility of the building entrance

• the presence and parameters of ramps, lifting devices, and elevators

• the width of door openings and corridors

• accessibility of sanitary facilities

• the presence of tactile elements and wayfinding

• accessibility of evacuation routes

• the arrangement of parking spaces for persons with disabilities

The review also verifies whether the parameters of building elements comply with the regulatory benchmarks established by the DBN.

When an Accessibility Compliance Review Is Required

An accessibility compliance review of a facility may be required in the following cases:

1. Before commissioning the facility

Supervisory authorities may require confirmation that the building complies with inclusivity requirements.

2. During reconstruction or major renovation

Pursuant to the Law of Ukraine “On Regulation of Urban Development Activities”, during reconstruction the facility must be brought into compliance with current standards.

3. For the inspection of existing buildings

This is particularly relevant for:

• shopping centers

• office buildings

• medical institutions

• educational institutions

• hotels

• administrative buildings

4. For obtaining permits or passing inspections

In many cases, local self-government authorities or inspection bodies verify compliance with barrier-free accessibility requirements.

Key Requirements of DBN B.2.2-40:2018

The standards establish clear parameters for building elements.

Entrance areas

• a ramp with a slope of no more than 8%

• ramp width of at least 1.2 m

• handrails on both sides

• non-slip surface

Doors and passageways

• door opening width of at least 0.9 m

• absence of high thresholds

• sufficient space for wheelchair maneuvering

Corridors and circulation paths

• corridor width of at least 1.5 m

• wheelchair turning space (1.5 × 1.5 m)

Sanitary facilities

• specially equipped stalls for persons with disabilities

• grab bars next to the toilet

• sufficient maneuvering space

Parking

• designated spaces for persons with disabilities

• parking space width of at least 3.5 m

How an Accessibility Audit Is Conducted

An accessibility compliance review under the DBN usually includes several stages.

1. Analysis of design documentation

Specialists review:

• architectural drawings

• building layout

• compliance with DBN standards

2. On-site inspection of the facility

Actual measurements are taken of:

• passage widths

• ramp parameters

• element heights

• accessibility of premises

3. Preparation of an expert opinion

The report specifies:

• identified violations

• recommendations for remediation

• technical solutions for bringing the facility into compliance with the standards.

Typical Mistakes in Implementing Barrier-Free Accessibility

In practice, property owners often make the following mistakes:

• overly steep ramps

• absence of handrails

• narrow door openings

• lack of accessible sanitary facilities

• incorrect placement of tactile elements

• inaccessible emergency exits

Such violations may result in a refusal to commission the facility or the need for additional reconstruction works.

Who Conducts the Accessibility Review

An accessibility audit is performed by:

• certified architects

• design engineers

• expert organizations in the construction sector

Specialists must have thorough knowledge of the requirements of DBN B.2.2-40:2018 and the practice of their application.

Conclusion

An accessibility compliance review under DBN B.2.2-40:2018 is an important stage in the design, reconstruction, or operation of buildings. It makes it possible to ensure actual barrier-free accessibility of the facility for persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility, while also helping avoid issues with supervisory authorities.

If you need to conduct an accessibility audit of a building or bring a facility into compliance with DBN requirements, contact GlobalBud Ukraine. The company has experienced engineers and lawyers who provide turnkey services in the construction and real estate sector — from technical analysis to the preparation of a complete documentation package for commissioning the facility.