EN 17210 and Ramp Slope – Requirements for Threshold Ramps
EN 17210 and Ramp Slope – What Are the Requirements for a Threshold Ramp?
The European standard EN 17210 defines technical accessibility requirements for buildings. One of the most important parameters is ramp slope. When selecting a threshold ramp or rubber threshold ramp, the ramp slope determines safety, usability, and compliance.
An incorrectly calculated ramp slope may lead to instability, excessive force requirements, and unsafe wheelchair access. Therefore, every threshold ramp must be evaluated according to EN 17210 ramp slope guidelines.
What Does EN 17210 Specify About Ramp Slope?
- Up to 8% – recommended for long ramps
- 10–12% – acceptable for medium-length ramps
- 15–17% – acceptable for very short transitions
A threshold ramp is classified as a short transition. Therefore, a rubber threshold ramp may have a higher ramp slope while still complying with EN 17210.
How Is Ramp Slope Calculated?
Slope (%) = (height / depth) × 100
The angle is calculated using:
arctan (height / depth)
For example, a threshold ramp with a height of 5 cm and a depth of 41 cm has a ramp slope of approximately 12%. This value falls within EN 17210 limits for short access transitions.
Practical Implications of Ramp Slope
A properly designed rubber threshold ramp ensures:
- Smooth wheelchair access
- Reduced pushing force
- No hazardous incline angle
- Compliance with EN 17210
The correct ramp slope depends directly on ramp depth. Professional threshold ramps are engineered with an optimized height-to-depth ratio to ensure safe accessibility.
Technical Analysis of Models
| Model | Height (cm) | Depth (cm) | Slope (%) | Angle (°) | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DPR25 | 2.5 | 21 | 11.9% | ~6.8° | Very comfortable threshold ramp |
| DPR50 | 5.08 | 41 | 12.4% | ~7.1° | Comfortable rubber threshold ramp |
| DPR64 | 6.35 | 42 | 15.1% | ~8.6° | Professional-grade solution |
| DPR76 | 7.6 | 46 | 16.5% | ~9.4° | For higher thresholds |
| DPR89 | 8.9 | 53.5 | 16.6% | ~9.4° | Heavy-duty threshold ramp |
Recommended Threshold Ramp Models
- Rubber Threshold Ramp 2.5 cm (DPR25)
- Threshold Ramp 5 cm (DPR50)
- Rubber Threshold Ramp 6.4 cm (DPR64)
- High Threshold Ramp 7.6 cm (DPR76)
- Heavy-Duty Rubber Ramp 8.9 cm (DPR89)
Conclusion
The EN 17210 standard clearly defines acceptable ramp slope values. When selecting a threshold ramp or rubber threshold ramp, ensuring the slope falls within the allowed range for short transitions guarantees safety, stability, and accessibility compliance.
