Kuwait Universal Design Code

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 1

1 Content
1 Content 2

2 Introduction 6
2.1 Kuwait’s disability and accessibility legal framework 6
2.2 Purpose of the code 7
2.3 Universal Design 7

3 Structure of this Code 9

4 Scope 10

5 Terms and Definitions 11

6 Accessible pedestrian routes. 16

6.1 Resting areas. 19

7 Approaching to the site – Accessibility in the public space 20

8 Kerb ramps specifications 20

9 Pedestrian crossings points 22

9.1 Crossing with kerb ramps 22
9.2 Kerb ramps with flared sides: 23
9.3 Single slope kerb ramp type: 24
9.4 Kerb ramps in kerb extensions 25
9.5 Lowered sidewalk to roadway level 26

10 Pedestrian crossings 27
10.1 Elevated sidewalk 27
10.2 Intermediate islands 28
10.3 Pedestrian crossing signals 30

11 Bollards 30

12 Shaded areas 30

13 Garage entryways 31

14 Parking 33
14.1 Pick-up/Drop-off areas 33
14.2 Accessible parking spaces provision 34
14.3 Accessible parking spaces 34
14.4 Auto-pay machines 35

15 Buildings entrance 38
15.1 Security barriers 39

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15.2 Security access systems 40
15.3 Reception areas 40
15.4 Waiting rooms 40
15.5 Electronic queuing systems 41

16 Horizontal circulations 42

17 Protruding objects 44

18 Doors 45
18.1 Door hardware 46
18.2 Manoeuvring spaces 48
18.3 Power-assisted doors 50

19 Glass doors and surfaces 51

20 Window and window hardware 53

21 Handrails and grab bars 54

21.1 Handrails 54
21.2 Grab bars 58

22 Tactile surfaces 59
22.1 Detectable warning surfaces 60
22.2 Tactile guiding surfaces 61

23 Vertical circulations 64
23.1 Elevators 64
23.2 Elevator’s doors and lobby specifications 64
23.3 Elevator car features 65
23.4 Lifting platforms 67

24 Ramps 69
24.1 Temporary ramps 72

25 Stairs 75
25.1 Steps 75
25.2 Stair flights 76
25.3 Escalators 79

26 Toilet and sanitary rooms 80

26.1 Accessible urinals 81
26.2 Toilet bowl and seat 82
26.3 Accessible individual toilets 83
26.4 Type A individual toilet, lateral transfer from both sides 84
26.5 Type B corner individual toilet room 85
26.6 Washbasins 86

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26.7 Restroom’s control and accessories 87
26.8 Toilet rooms doors 88
26.9 Accessible showers 89

27 Family-friendly facilities 91
27.1 Family toilets 92
27.2 Feeding rooms 93
27.3 Child protection seats 95

28 Ablution areas 95

29 Furniture 97
29.1 Accessible chairs and benches 97
29.2 Tables 98
29.3 Drinking fountains 99
29.4 Vending machines, ATMs, Auto-pay machines 100

30 Mosques and prayer rooms 102

31 Entertainment, conferences, lecture facilities 103

31.1 Accessible seating spaces. 103
31.2 Podiums and backstage areas 105
31.3 Box office counters 105
31.4 Study places 106
31.5 Hearing enhancement systems 106

32 Accessible hotel rooms 107

33 Accessible dining rooms 111

34 Accessible workplaces and commercial buildings 113

34.1 Accessible smoking areas 113

35 Shops, supermarkets, shopping malls 114

35.1 Accessible fitting rooms 115
35.2 Lockers 115

36 Accessible changing rooms 116

37 Healthcare and welfare buildings 117

38 Balconies 117

39 Requirements for parks, beaches, natural spaces, outdoors areas 118

39.1 Accessible beaches 119
39.2 Accessible outdoor kiosks 120
39.3 Swimming pools 121
39.4 Outdoor showers 123

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39.5 Picnic areas 123

40 Controls and operating mechanisms 124

40.1 Card access 125
40.2 Keypads 125

41 Pedestrian protection on construction works 126

41.1 Scaffolding 128

42 Wayfinding 129
42.1 General 129
42.2 Signage 130
42.3 Directional signs 133
42.4 Identification signs 135
42.5 Tactile maps 136
42.6 Typeface and lettering 139
42.7 High embossment 141
42.8 Braille 142
42.8.1 Position 142
42.9 Accessible information means 144
42.10 International symbol of access 145

43 Emergency preparedness 146

43.1 Fire evacuation for all 146
43.2 Areas of rescue assistance 147
43.3 Panic and emergency exit devices. 147
43.4 Alarms 148
43.5 Evacuation devices 148

44 Management and maintenance 150

45 Anthropometrics, acoustics and lighting 152

45.1 Dimensions and turning areas 152
45.2 Walking and running speed 154
45.3 Acoustics 154
45.4 Lighting 156

46 Table of figures 157

47 Bibliography 162

48 Notes 163

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2 Introduction
Universal Design has become a national priority for The State of Kuwait. The
Kuwait National Development Plan and Actionable vision, includes Universal
Design as a main objective. The Kuwait Master Plan is currently under
development, this Universal Design Code will be part of its implementation.

2.1 Kuwait’s disability and accessibility legal framework

Section 5 of the Kuwait’s 2010 Disability Law is concerned with societal
inclusion. It stipulates in articles 18-23 the need for inclusion in:

1) Sports, cultural and entertainment activities by providing accessible

environments for PWDs, encouraging them to participate in sports;

2) Public buildings and facilities that are designed in line with Universal Design
standards;

3) In public transport;

4) By access to news, cultural programs and parliamentary sessions through

sign language as a measure by the Ministry of Information;

5) And by launching societal awareness programs for PWDs, ensuring all

curricula (educational, religious, life, sports) meets their needs and creating a
positive image of PWDs in media.

This document has been developed within the framework of the Project:
“Achieving Kuwait 2035 Vision Towards Persons with Disability Project”. The
project is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Kuwait office, and implemented by the Public Authority for Disabled Affairs of
Kuwait (PADA).

The Project seeks to achieve three outputs:

• Output 1.1: Enhanced human capacities and institutional effectiveness

for prevention, early detection, diagnosis and rehabilitation of disabilities.
• Output 1.2: Co-ordinated and well organized efficient efforts towards
removal of barriers to social, economic and educational inclusion of
persons with disability.
• Output 1.3: Increased technical expertise and organizational capacities
for implementation of Universal Design and country wide use of
technology enablers.

The current Kuwait Universal Design Code will contribute to Output 1.3.

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2.2 Purpose of the code
The purpose of the Kuwait Universal Design Code is to define how the built
environment shall be designed, constructed and managed to enable all users to
approach, enter, use, egress from and evacuate independently, in an equitable
and dignified manner, to the greatest extent possible.

The requirements in this Code cover a wide range of human abilities, embracing
all aspect of life. The requirements of this Code shall be applied at the earliest
possible stage in the design process, to avoid higher costs of retrofitting.

This Code’s content and its intended application is based on the concept of
Universal Design, as described in the following section.

2.3 Universal Design

Implementing the principles of Universal Design is the sustainable approach to
designing for everyone as it equitably addresses the full life span of individuals
as well as environments. This approach is quickly replacing the limited scope
and vision of barrier-free design.

The Concept of Universal Design is understood as:

The design of products, environments, programmes and services to be usable

by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or
specialized design.

The Seven Principles of Universal Design are:

1. Equitable use
The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities

2. Flexibility in use
The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and
abilities.

3. Simple and intuitive

Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user's
experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.

4. Perceptible information
The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user,
regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.

5. Tolerance for error

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 The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of
accidental or unintended actions.

6. Low physical effort

The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum
of fatigue.

7. Size and space of approach and use

Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach,
manipulation, and use regardless of user's body size, posture, or
mobility.

Whereas the focus of an accessible, or barrier-free design, was exclusively on

providing appropriate facilities for people with disabilities, commonly
represented by wheelchair users only, the universal design concept takes a
much broader approach based upon accommodating the diversity of human
characteristics within the population as a whole.

A universally designed environment accepts the reality that the broader

population comprises of people with a wide range of ages, heights, weights,
language skills and abilities. It encourages designers to recognize such diversity
within the creative design and planning process, resulting in buildings that are
more accommodating and functional for all users – including people who are
disabled or elderly.

Throughout our life cycles we all are in constant interaction with the
environment in which we live, it is changing all the time. Designers shall
recognize this changing dynamic, and plan for it.

The beneficiaries of universal design include, but are not limited to:

• Children
• Elderly people
• People with disabilities
• People from diverse sociocultural backgrounds
• Pregnant women
• Tourists

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3 Structure of this Code
The code has been developed following the logical way of entering and using a
building:

Common Individual
Approaching the Parking and
Entrances architectural indoor and
building pedestiran acess
elements oudoor spaces

Covering the common elements that shall be made accessible under a

universal design approach, both outside and inside.

After specifications for architectural elements and individual spaces, the code
includes sections that are dedicated to serve all users and beneficiaries of the
universal design concept:

Wayfinding

Maintenance
Emergency
and
preparedness
management

At the end of the Code there are also sections for basic anthropometric
specifications and bibliography.

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4 Scope
This Code specifies design and construction requirements for making new
buildings accessible to persons with disabilities and other beneficiaries of the
universal design concept.

These requirements relate to the external and internal environment, such as

right of ways, access to buildings, circulation within buildings, egress from
buildings.

The requirements are to be applied during the design, construction,

renovations, and alteration of sites, facilities, buildings, and elements of the built
environment.

The provisions in this Code are comparable to international standards and are
focused on a wide spectrum of people, including parents with children and older
persons.

In accordance to similar standards, this Code does not apply private houses,
though its provision may apply to public areas of dwelling developments.

Nothing in these requirements prevents the use of designs, products, or

technologies as alternatives to those prescribed, provided they result in
substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.

The dimensions stated in this Code are primarily based on adult dimensions,
nevertheless, it includes specifications that should suit children and people with
different heights. If a facility is designed primarily to serve children, dimensions
on and other provisions should be adjusted to make them suitable for children.

Dimensions are given in metric units. All dimensions in figures are given in
meters or millimetres and are measured to the centreline, unless otherwise
specified.

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5 Terms and Definitions
For the purposes of this Kuwait Universal Design Code, the following terms and
definitions apply.

1. Access
Approach, entry, internal circulation or exit, including in case of emergency.

2. Accessible parking space

Car parking spaces designed with specific criteria for the use of car users with
disabilities, that can be either motorists or passengers.

3. Accessibility
Accessibility include eases of independent approach, entry, evacuation, and/or
use of a building and its services and facilities, by all of the building’s potential
users, regardless of disability, age or gender with an assurance of individual
health, safety and welfare during the course of those activities.

4. Accessible toilet compartment

An accessible toilet located in a cluster of toilets on each gender sanitary
provision. It features adequate transfer space, toilet bowl, washbasin and grab
bars.

5. Accessible route
A continuous unobstructed path in an internal or external environment,
connecting all accessible elements and spaces in any facility or public spaces.

Interior accessible routes include a combination of the following elements:

corridors floors, ramps, handrails, elevators, visual, audible and/or tactile clues,
clear floor space, among others.

Exterior accessible include a combination of following elements: accessible

pedestrian paths, rights of way, parking spaces, kerb ramps, ramps, lifts, among
others.

6. Area of rescue assistance

Building space directly adjoining, and visible from, a main vertical evacuation
route, protected from hear, smoke and flame during and after a fire, where
people can temporarily wait with confidence or further information, instructions,
and/or rescue assistance, without obstructing or interfering with the evacuation
travel of other building users.

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7. Built Environment
External and internal environments, including any element, component or fitting
that is commissioned, designed, constructed and managed for use by the
people.

8. Clear headroom
Free unobstructed vertical space to allow proper and safe passage.

9. Clear width
Free unobstructed space for access through a doorway, passage, stair, ramp,
walkway, etc.

10. Colour Blindness

The most common form of colour blindness is red/green deficiencies in which
shades of grey are generally detected in place of red and green. This should be
considered when using colour coding or coloured text.

11. Disability
Disability is an evolving concept and that disability results from the interaction
between persons with impairments and attitudinal and environmental barriers
that hinders their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with
others.

12. Escalator
Moving stairway.

13. Evacuation
Egress in an emergency situation.

14. Family toilet

A public, unisex toilet, available for use by and individual or a family, using any
mobility device or pram and an accompanying child, family member, caregiver
of the same or opposite sex. Family toilets are accessible toilets than can be
used by both genders to allow the greatest flexibility for people who require
assistance.

15. Fire engineering strategy

Coherent and purposeful arrangement of fire prevention, fire protection and fire
management measures which is developed in order to attain specifier fire
engineering design objectives.

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16. Functional limitations
Functional limitations are restrictions in performing fundamental physical and
mental actions used in daily life such as mobility (physical) or memory (mental).

17. Grab bar

A bar used to maintain balance, providing steadying, stabilizing assistance or
support in different locations throughout a building or facility.

18. Handrail
Component of a stair or of a ramp or other building component that provides
guidance, balance and support.

19. Headroom
Clear vertical space above one’s head, as in a vehicle or room.

20. Hearing enhancement system

Piece of equipment, product system, hardware, software or service that is used
to increase, maintain or improve listening capabilities of individuals with hearing
impairments.

21. Impairment
Limitation of body function or structure, such as a significant deviation or loss
which can be temporary due, for example, to injury, or permanent, slight or
severe and can fluctuate over time.

22. Individual accessible toilet

Compartment with the basic requirements of an accessible toilet compartment,
that does not require entering to a toilet cluster. It can be placed in both gender
sanitary provision or be a unisex room.

23. Interaction space

The interaction space is the space required by a person to interact with another
person, furniture, appliance, machine or another item.

24. Kerb ramps

Construction in the form of an inclined plane that makes it possible to pass from
street level to a higher accessible pedestrian path.

25. Landing
Platform or part of a floor structure at the end of a flight of stairs or a ramp or at
the entrance to a car lift.

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26. Light Reflectance Value (LRV)
The proportion of visible light reflected by a surface at all wavelengths and
directions when illuminated by a light source. LRV is also known as the
luminance reflectance factor. The LRV is expressed on a scale of 0 to 100, with
a value of 0 for pure black and a value of 100 for pure white.

27. Manoeuvring area

Minimum three-dimensional spaces within which it is feasible to complete a
manoeuvre to gain access to a specific facility, component or fitting, in particular
while using a wheelchair or a walking aid.

28. Mobility aid

A device that is used by persons with functional limitations to assist walking.
Examples include canes, arm crutches, and walkers. Within this Code the term
“wheelchair” is used to include manual wheelchairs, sports chairs, electric
powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters, unless otherwise stated.

29. Mobility device

A manual or motorized device to be used by persons with functional limitations
in their mobility. Examples include manual and sports wheelchairs, electric
powered wheelchairs, and three and four-wheeled mobility scooters.

30. Nosing
Front edge of a tread or landing that protrudes over the riser beneath, that can
be rounded, chamfered or otherwise shaped.

31. Ramp
An inclined solid flat plane structure that is steeper than 5 % from the horizontal.
Depending on the length it shall include an intermediate landing, which makes it
possible to pass from one level to another.

32. Rise
Vertical distance between the upper horizontal surfaces of two conserampive
treads, or of a landing and the next treads above or below it, or of a flight
between conserampive landings.

33. Riser
Vertical component of a step between a tread or a landing and the tread or a
landing above or below it.

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34. Reflectance
Measure of light reflected in a given direction by a surface and which is
expressed in a unit term from 0 to 100 scale, respectively, that represents a
grey scale progression from the notional extremes of total light absorption
(black) to total light reflection (white).

35. Service animal

Any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to work or
perform tasks for an individual with a disability, including, but not limited to,
guiding individuals with impaired vision, alerting individuals with impaired
hearing to intruders or sounds, providing minimal protection or rescue work,
pulling a wheelchair, or fetching dropped items. Service animals shall be
identified with a certification.

36. Shall
It is mandatory to do it.

37. Should
It is recommended to do it.

38. Street furniture

Elements located in street and other pedestrian environments, including but not
limited to: lamp posts, litter bins, signs, benches, bollards, traffic lights.

39. Visual contrast

Colour and/or tonal contrast between surfaces and fixtures with the purpose of
improving visual clarity

40. Wayfinding
Descriptive of a system whereby appropriate information is provided to assist a
person to pass through the built environment towards a specific destination.
Wayfinding includes orienting oneself, knowing one’s destination, following the
best route, recognizing one’s destination and finding one’s way back out.
People who are blind or who have a vision impairment benefit from tactile
information to facilitate wayfinding.

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6 Accessible pedestrian routes.
Any accessible pedestrian path that is part of an accessible route, either
outdoor or indoor shall:

a) Be level and firm.

b) Be linear and continued, while avoiding direction changes between
pedestrian crossings.
c) Shall not be interrupted by parking entrances.
d) Any kerb height along the accessible route shall be between 100 mm and
150 mm.
e) Preferably intersect at right angles to each other and be easy to follow.
f) Should have detectable delimitations and different visual contrast from the
surroundings.
g) The maximum permitted gradient for a running slope in accessible routes is
5%. Routes exceeding this gradient shall be considered as a ramp. The
maximum cross slope shall not exceed 2%.
h) Clear headroom along the entire route shall be at least 2200 mm.
i) Uneven surfaces in accessible paths should be avoided and the maximum
height of any irregularity, joints, utility covers or any building element shall
be 5 mm.
j) Gaps and openings on the route sides with a height difference greater than
500 mm should have guardrails.
k) Luminance along the accessible route shall be at least 100 lux.
l) Lightning changes along an accessible route shall be gradual to prevent
glare.
m) The floor in indoor routes shall contrast with the surrounding walls in tone
and colour. The floor shall present reflectance contrast with the surrounding
pavement of at least 30 points LRV (Light Reflectance Value), or by an
easily perceptible texture difference. These floors can present less contrast
if they are separated by a strip of at least 300 mm presenting the required
contrast or by an easily perceptible texture difference.
n) Contrasting colour strips and detectable warning surfaces shall be placed in
changes of level.

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o) Drainage grids or any other type of grate with openings, located on the
accessible route shall have perpendicular to the path of travel openings, or
with a 12mm maximum.

Shall be free of obstacles or protruding objects, as shown in Figure 1, where the

unobstructed width shall be:

a) Not less than 1800 mm for constant two-way traffic

b) Not less than 1500 mm for frequent two-way traffic, provided that passing
places are included at intervals of maximum 25000 mm
c) Not less than 1200 mm for infrequent two-way traffic with a passing and
turning space of minimum 1800mm x 2000mm provided each 25000 mm

Figure 1. Unobstructed widths

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 Figure 2. Grates in accessible routes

Grates shall have openings that are perpendicular to the path of travel, or
a grilled pattern with openings of 12mm maximum.

Figure 3. Clear width street furniture with grilles

Trees, vegetation, or any type of furniture or post along the accessible

routes shall be separated from any other obstacle

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6.1 Resting areas.
Resting areas with seats shall be provided along the paths of travel, for long
travel distances on an indoor or outdoor accessible route. Seat or benches shall
be located at intervals not exceeding 50m.

The seat or benches shall have additional clear spaces on either side to allow
the location of a wheelchair user, out of the clear path of travel.

Figure 4. Accessible path with resting area example.

This diagram shows an example of a recessed resting area with a bench that
has additional clear space for a wheelchair user.

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7 Approaching to the site – Accessibility in the public
space
All users shall be able to arrive to the site, approach the building, enter and exit
safely and independently. For that purpose, there should be accessible
pedestrian routes to, around and between buildings, from the boundary of the
site, nearest public transport stop, or from the parking area.

The route approaching the building or facility shall be formed by a combination

of accessible routes, pedestrian crossings, stairs, ramps or any other
architectural element as per the specifications of this Code.

The number of routes depends on the building or facility design. At least one
path of travel shall be accessible route, serving all users.

The accessible route specifications have been described in Section 6. The

following sections describe the specification for additional accessible outdoor
pedestrian environments.

8 Kerb ramps specifications

Kerb ramps must meet the following criteria:

a) The kerb height shall be between 100 mm and 150 mm, higher kerbs shall
be treated as ramps, according to Section 24
b) Surfaces shall be slip-resistant.
c) Do not require handrails.
d) Shall not project onto a road surface.
e) Shall be located to prevent its obstruction by parked vehicles.
f) Shall be free from any obstruction, such as signpost, traffic lights, bollards
and the like.
g) The total width of kerb ramps in pedestrian crossings is the same as the
width of the accessible pedestrian route, or never less than 2000 mm.
h) In accessible parking places or drop-off zones, kerb ramps should have a
minimum width of 1200 mm or the width of the lateral aisle.
i) Kerb ramps shall have a warning tactile pavement at 300 mm from the edge.
j) Kerb ramps edge surfaces shall be completely level with the road.
k) The colour and texture of the kerb ramps shall be identical to the accessible
pedestrian route.

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l) Shall have a detectable warning surface 400 mm depth with contrasting
colour and texture
m) Slip resistance value shall be higher than 45 PTV, as indicated in section
5.2.
n) The maximum cross slope gradient maximum is 2%.
o) Kerb ramps must not interfere with the accessible route.
p) When the kerb ramp design causes a step in its lateral edges, this level
change should be protected by some element or urban furniture.
q) Kerb ramp located on both sides of a street must be aligned.
r) Drain grids shall never be located on the kerb ramp landings.
s) The maximum running gradient is 8% depending on the height of the
sidewalk the length will vary following Table 1.

Table 1. Kerb rampsi

Sidewalk height Ramp run dimensions Flared sides

Max. Max.
Length Width Length
gradient gradient

1250
100 mm 1250 mm
mm
Equal to
1875
150 mm crossing 1875 mm
mm
painting 8% 8%
200 mm
>2,00m
2500
2500 mm
(only for existing mm
sidewalks)

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9 Pedestrian crossings points
The following are suggested layouts for pedestrian crossing points, involving
kerb ramps or elevated sidewalks.

9.1 Crossing with kerb ramps

When using kerb ramps to cross streets, the roadway shall maintain a
continuous level and non-slippery surface.

The crossing shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) There is a kerb ramp at each end of the pedestrian crossing to connect the
sidewalk and the roadway.
b) There are no level changes at both ends of the kerb ramp and flush with the
sidewalk and roadway
c) The kerb ramps on each end shall be aligned.
d) The sidewalk edge of the pedestrian crossing should be marked with a strip
of tactile warning pavement. This tactile pavement should run all the width of
the kerb ramps and shall fulfil the requirements of this code.

The suggested kerb ramp types are described below.

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9.2 Kerb ramps with flared sides:
Kerb ramps with flared sides are the most common type, and are comprised of
three slopes.

All gradients shall be a maximum of 8%. This type of Kerb ramp is preferred
where pedestrians are likely to walk across them.

Depending on the kerb’s layout, and adapting to local conditions, the flared
sides of kerb ramps can have higher cross gradient slopes, but never more than
12%.

There should be a clear landing space on the sidewalk side of the same width
as the accessible path, but no less than 1200mm.

Figure 5. Kerb ramp with flared sides

This type of kerb ramp is better suited for wide sidewalks with plenty of room
for providing and adequate gradient for the ramp and flared sides

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9.3 Single slope kerb ramp type:
Single slope kerb ramps are comprised of a single slope placed longitudinally
on the crossing direction, linking the sidewalk with the roadway.

This type of kerb ramps shall be used where there is not enough room for
providing adequate flared sides, or where street furniture of any kind prevent
providing the flared sides.

The sides of the kerb ramp shall have any of the following elements:

• Vegetation
• Street furniture, such as waste bins, traffic or pedestrian lights, street
lamps, bollards, etc.

Figure 6. Single slope kerb ramp

The example in this diagram shows the kerb ramp with vegetation on one
side and a traffic light and trash bin in the other side.

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9.4 Kerb ramps in kerb extensions
This type is appropriate when the sidewalk is narrow with no space in the
corners for the pedestrians to wait, or the roadway is too wide to provide a short
crossing time.

Extensions in the street corners can be created to reduce the pedestrian

crossing distance. The kerb extensions can have street furniture or vegetation,
provided the accessible routes and kerb ramps are free of any obstacle.

Kerb ramps of any kind can be used on the extension.

Figure 7. Kerb ramp in kerb extensions

This example shows to flared sides kerb ramps on the kerb extension.

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9.5 Lowered sidewalk to roadway level
Lowering the full width of the sidewalk to the roadway level should be
implemented when the sidewalk width is too narrow to use any other type of
kerb ramp.

This crossing is comprised of two running slopes that lower the sidewalk’s full
width to the roadway level at the corner, providing crossing paths in both
directions

A minimum 2000 mm long landing should be provided between the two slopes.
The edge of the landing with the roadway shall have a tactile warning pavement
to provide a reference of the change between the sidewalk and the roadway.

A maximum gradient of 5% shall be provided on the ramps used for this

crossing point.

Figure 8. Lowered sidewalks to road level

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10 Pedestrian crossings

10.1 Elevated sidewalk

The sidewalk shall maintain a continuous surface without lowering to the
roadway level during the crossing.

Shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) The total width is the same as the crosswalk width, or at least 2000 mm, free
of any obstacle.
b) The surface height shall be between 100 mm and 150 mm above the road,
and the longitudinal gradient of the roadway ramp cannot exceed more than
15%.
c) The crosswalk is marked on the raised surface for all its width.
d) The sidewalk edge of the pedestrian crossing shall be marked with a strip of
detectable warning surface. This tactile warning surface shall run the width
of the crossing and shall fulfil the requirements established in this code.
e) Drainage should be resolved without causing a level change, a step or a gap
across the crosswalk.

Figure 9. Elevated sidewalk

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10.2 Intermediate islands
Pedestrian crossings may have intermediate islands due to the roadway length
or to provide a suitable time for crossing.

The intermediate islands shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) The width of the island shall be at least 1500 mm.

b) The island pavement shall be the same colour as the pedestrian path. Both
island edges should be marked with detectable warning surface at least 300
mm wide and the same width as the pedestrian crossing.
c) When two traffic directions are separated by an intermediate island and
have different green light cycles, pedestrians should be required to wait in
the central island for the green light and guardrails shall be placed to
guarantee that pedestrians stop in the island.

The offset intermediate islands should fulfil the following requirements:

a) The entrance and exit of the pedestrian crossing at the intermediate island
shall be misaligned.
b) The path between the entrance and the exit shall be protected on both sides
with guardrails, dwarf walls or other protection elements.
c) The island pavement should be the same colour as the pedestrian path.
Both island’s edges should be marked with detectable warning surface of at
least 300 mm wide and the same width as the pedestrian path.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 28

 Figure 10. Intermediate island for different green light cycles

Figure 11. Intermediate island

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 29

10.3 Pedestrian crossing signals
Accessible pedestrian signals on the accessible pedestrian crossing shall
provide visual and audible signals that provide information on the crossing cycle
and duration, providing at least:

a) On-demand acoustic signals: activated by user demand by touching a

button. It should have a distinctive tone and duration.
b) Pedestrian crossing signals: automatically emitted during the pedestrian
crossing cycle and maintained throughout the cycle. It has a distinctive tone
and changes when finishing the crossing time.
c) The sound shall be set to last for the full traffic light cycle.

The pedestrian signal pushbutton for activating an on-demand crossing signal

shall be mounted at a height between 900 mm and 1200 mm and should have
tactile characters.

11 Bollards
Whenever bollards shall be used, they shall comply with the following
requirements:

a) Have a minimum clear distance of 900mm between the bollards.

b) Not be linked with a chain or ropes.
c) Have a minimum height of 800 mm.
d) Have colour contrast with the background.
e) Without objects protruding horizontally.
f) Be well lit with light positioned in a way to prevent glare.

12 Shaded areas
The provision of continuous shaded pedestrian paths is encouraged along
accessible routes. In case a continuous shading is not feasible, shaded areas
shall be provided at least every 50 m along accessible routes.

Each second shaded area shall be provided with seating places and adequate
space for wheelchair users.

Shade may be provided by means of trees, pergolas, retracted facades or any

other architectural element that comply with the accessibility provisions of this
code.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 30

13 Garage entryways
Garage entryways to any building or facility shall not interrupt a sidewalk or
accessible route.

Figure 12 shows the designs that shall be avoided.

Figure 13 and 14 show examples of adequate accessible routes on the

intersection with garage entryways.

Figure 12. Barriers in garage entryways

Entryway designs that shall be avoided

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 31

 Figure 13. Accessible garage access

Option for adequate design of sidewalk and entryway

Figure 14. Accessible garage access

Option for adequate design of sidewalk and entryway

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 32

14 Parking

14.1 Pick-up/Drop-off areas

Pick-up and drop-off areas for taxis and private cars shall be linked to an
accessible route and provide level surface or kerb ramps.

The next figures present two types of pick-up areas, with a kerb ramp and with
no level difference. Depending on the building’s design any of them can be
used, provided the edge between the sidewalk and roadway is properly marked,
with colour contrast and detectable warning indicators as shown in the figures
below.

Figure 15. Pick-up area with kerb ramp

Layout with two alternative locations for the kerb ramps. This layout should be
used when there is no possibility of providing a level drop-of area.

Figure 16. Pick-up area with no level difference

Layout with no level difference, the edge between the roadway and the
sidewalk is marked by the colour and texture change using a detectable
warning indicator

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 33

14.2 Accessible parking spaces provisionii
A minimum of one accessible designated parking spaces should be provided in
every parking area. The number of accessible parking spaces shall follow next
table:

Table 2. Accessible parking provision

Parking spaces Accessible parking spaces

up to 10 1

up to 50 2

up to 100 4

up to 200 6

over 200 6 + one for each 100

14.3 Accessible parking spaces

Clear directional signs at the entrance of any parking lot shall be displayed to
direct drivers to the location of accessible parking places

Vehicle park entrances shall have a height clearance of at least 2200 mm. If the
facility will serve vans with platform lift for wheelchair access, a higher
clearance should be considered, with a minimum of 2750 mm.

Accessible parking spaces shall meet the following technical requirements:

a) Should be located as near as possible to the principal entrance or

entrances.
b) The route from the accessible parking space to the main entrance should be
less than 50 m
c) Shall be connected by an accessible route to the entrance. The accessible
route shall not require the users to pass behind vehicles that may be
backing out.
d) The minimum dimensions for shall be 3800 mm x 5500 mm for angled
parking and 3800 mm x 6000 mm for parallel parking. For cases where
accessible vans park frequently, the dimensions should be adapted to the
vehicle size.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 34

e) They shall be properly marked with the international symbol of access,
painted on the ground and on a signpost. This sign should be easily visible
from the driving position and mounted at a height of 2200 mm.

14.4 Auto-pay machines

Shall be located in the same level as the accessible parking space.

Shall have the operating controls complying with the requirements of this Code,
Section 38.

Figure 17. Accessible angled parking spaces specifications

Layout of accessible parking spaces in combination with regular angled

spaces

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 35

 Figure 18. Accessible perpendicular spaces specifications

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 36

 Figure 19. Accessible parallel parking place along the sidewalk

Figure 20. Accessible parking sign

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 37

15 Buildings entrance
The main entrance to a building shall be identifiable from the boundary of the
site and from the designated accessible parking spaces. The entrance should
be clearly identifiable from the rest of the building.

Entrances to buildings shall be located and oriented in such a way to ensure the
shortest distance for pedestrians between the building and drop-off areas,
parking, sidewalk, public transportation strops or other buildings.

An accessible route shall link the parking area, designated accessible parking
spaces and the sidewalk to the main entrances of all buildings or facilities.

The accessible route from the street or public space shall avoid stairs and
ramps. Gradients up to 5% are acceptable to reach the main entrance(s) at
street level. If the gradient is over 5%, it should be designed as a ramp.

The accessible route shall be marked with clear signage, according to the
specifications of the Wayfinding section of this Code.

In new buildings, the main entrance or entrances shall be fully accessible to all.

In existing buildings, when the accessible door is not the main entrance door,
the direction to the accessible entrance shall be marked with the International
Symbol of Access (ISA), as specified in Section 42.10

Each building entrance shall be provided with an identification number that

shows the exact address.

A directory shall display the main departments and/or services provided in the
building.

An information desk visible from and near the entrance shall be provided in all
public use buildings.

All entrance doors must have a clear passage width adequate to the intended
use of the building and the expected number of users. Minimum dimensions are
900 mm width x 2100 mm height.

In case of revolving doors, an alternative door shall be provided,

Entrance doors shall be power assisted, according to the specification of the

Doors Section of this Code.

Accessible entrances shall have a flush threshold.

Doormats shall be levelled with the floor with a tolerance of ± 2 mm.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 38

 Figure 21. Example of accessible route

Accessible parking space close to an accessible entrance

15.1 Security barriers

When applicable, security barriers shall provide at least one entrance with a
width of 900 mm. Use of turnstiles is not allowed.

Figure 22. Example of accessible security barriers

No turnstiles are used and one of them is wider to allow the passing of a
wheelchair

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 39

15.2 Security access systems
Where security access systems are installed, they shall:

a) Be located along the accessible route.

b) Comply with the Controls and operating mechanism section of this code.
c) Provide equitable alternative means to allow persons with disabilities
through the security system, e.g., proximity or contactless scanners or card
readers, avoiding the use of biometric systems.

15.3 Reception areas

The reception area should:

a) Shall be easily identifiable from the entrance, with a direct route free of any
barrier.
b) The use of queuing lines should allow wheelchair users to manoeuvre to the
reception desk. Queuing rails should contrast visually with their surroundings
and have a clear width of at least 900mm.
c) Reception desk when used shall be clearly identifiable and with dual-height
counters on both sides, with a lower counter between 750 mm and 790 mm,
and a high counter between 950 mm and 1250 mm, allowing its use by a
wheelchair user or people sitting down on a standard chair on either side.
d) A space 680 mm height and 480 mm deep shall be provided under the desk,
with a frontal clear approaching space of 1400 mm x 900 mm.
e) The reception desk shall be located in a position where glare or reflections
don’t obstruct the ability of deaf or hard of hearing visitors to lip read, e.g. by
the presence of windows, glazed screens or mirrors behind a receptionist

15.4 Waiting rooms

Reception areas shall provide waiting rooms with the following characteristics:

a) Access to waiting areas should be direct and unobstructed.

b) There shall be enough space to accommodate seating places and clear
spaces to accommodate wheelchairs, scooters or strollers.
c) Seating layouts should allow the option of two wheelchair users sitting next
to each other, or a wheelchair user sitting next to a user of standard seating.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 40

d) A mixture of seating options shall be provided, e.g. fixed or removable, with
or without arms.
e) When providing sofas, additional regular chairs shall be provided with a seat
height of 430 mm with +/- 30 mm tolerance and armrests.

Figure 23. Clear accessible area on seating spaces

Applicable for chairs, or benches

15.5 Electronic queuing systems

If electronic queuing systems are provided, they should provide audio and
visual announcements.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 41

16 Horizontal circulations
Buildings should be designed, constructed and manged so that the internal
layout is accessible and easily understood. All aspects of horizontal circulation,
including corridors, should be designed to facilitate ease of movement of all
people.

Corridors shall:

a) Be level and firm.

b) Should have detectable delimitations and different visual contrast from the
surroundings.
c) Where width of accessible routes or corridors are less than 2000 mm, shall
have passing places, 2000 wide and at least 2000 mm in length at
reasonable intervals, no more than 50 m apart.
d) Within office work areas, the minimum width for accessible routes shall be
900mm.
e) Where there are direction changes (180º and 90º), the clear passage width
shall allow a manoeuvring turning space of 1500 mm diameter.
f) Floor surfaces shall be firm, smooth, stable, and level, without glare and slip-
resistant, avoiding vibration in wheels produced by excessive joints. Rugs
and carpets should be firmly fixed to the floor and not have a high pile.
g) Floor patterning that could be mistaken for steps, e.g. stripes, should not be
used for floors in corridors.
h) The accessible route shall present reflectance contrast with the pavement
not intended for walking of at least 30 points LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
and/or by an easily perceptible (by the foot or the cane) texture difference.
i) A tactile warning surface shall precede any sudden level change.
j) The average minimum illumination is 100 lux calculated at floor level, with a
minimum value of 60 lux.

The width of corridors free of obstacles should be according to the following

Table 3.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 42

 Table 3. Minimum corridors width

Building Type Minimum width

Residential developments, hotels,

service apartments, workers’
dormitories. 2000 mm
School, office buildings
Factories, workshops, industrial
buildings.
Universities, college or similar
Parks, open spaces.
Sport complex and public swimming
pools.
2000 mm
Shopping centres and multi-purpose
complexes.
Markets, restaurants and eating
establishments.
Hospitals, nursing homes.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 43

17 Protruding objects
Objects shall not protrude into the pedestrian path more than 100 mm.

In case of obstructions with their leading edge at any height above 580 mm
from the floor shall not protrude more than 100 mm from walls, posts or other
elements. Obstructions with their leading edges up to a maximum of 580 mm
from the floor level, may protrude more than 100mm, as illustrated in the Figure
24 below, as that height allow them to be detected by a person’s white cane.

Figure 24. Protruding objects

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 44

18 Doors
Doors along or connecting to accessible routes must meet the following
requirements:

a) Automatic doors are preferred for public building entrances and high
pedestrian traffic areas.
b) Doors should have a free passage width of minimum 900 mm. This free
passage must be measured between the face of the door and the face of the
doorstop with the door open at 90°.
c) Opening and closing mechanisms shall be placed between 900 mm and
1200 mm in height and shall be easy to grasp and use. Pressure
mechanisms or levers shall be easy to operate with the elbow or be
automatic.
d) If lever systems are provided, they must be separated from the door body by
at least 40 mm.
e) Thresholds shall flush with surrounding floors. If required, level thresholds
no higher than 6mm.
f) Spring-operated doors shall be avoided
g) If there is a revolving door, an alternative accessible door shall be provided
immediately adjacent to the revolving door.

Figure 25. Revolving doors shall have an alternative accessible door

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 45

18.1 Door hardware
Round knobs are not allowed.

Handles, pulls, latches and locks shall:

a) Be operable with one hand.

b) Not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist to operate.
c) Be mounted at a height of 900 mm to 1100 mm from the floor.
d) Be colour contrasted with the background.

For sliding doors, a vertical fixed bar shall be provided to open the door.

The opening space of a door shall not invade the manoeuvring spaces and the
accessible paths.

The force required to open a door shall be a maximum of 25 N.

A swinging doors leaf shall be able to open at 90°.

Where a raised threshold is provided, it shall have a maximum height of 15mm,

be bevelled when higher than 5 mm and contrast visually with the adjacent
floor.

Doorstoppers shall be provided to prevent the door from hitting and damaging
the wall.

Where there are two or more door leaves at least one of the leaves of the door
must be able to be considered an accessible door according to the above
specifications.

Kick plates of at least 250 mm high are recommended in high use areas.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 46

 Figure 26. Height of door handle

Figure 27. Door Hardware

Adequate height and location or different door hardware

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 47

18.2 Manoeuvring spacesiii
Doors shall have a clear manoeuvring space on both sides.

The dimensions of these spaces shall fulfil the following requirements:

On the pull side, a minimum space of 600 mm adjacent to the leading edge of
the door with a minimum clear floor space of 1500 mm x 1500 mm shall be
provided.

On the push side, a minimum space of 300 mm adjacent to the leading edge of
the door with a minimum clear floor space of 1200 mm x 1200 mm shall be
provided.

In sliding doors, a minimum space of 300 mm adjacent to the leading edge of

the door with a minimum clear floor space of 1200 mm x 1200 mm in both sides
shall be provided.

Clear floor space shall not be obstructed by other swinging doors and they shall
be free of obstacles.

When two doors are installed in a series, they shall have a minimum space of
1200 mm between them plus the width of the door swinging into that space.

Figure 28. Clear spaces for one push side swinging doors

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 48

 Figure 29. Door clear spaces

Clear spaces for both-side push swinging doors and sliding doors

Figure 30. Door clear spaces

Clear spaces for two aligned doors in a series

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 49

 Figure 31. Angled doors in a series

Clear spaces for two angled doors in a series

18.3 Power-assisted doors

Automatic doors are preferable, for high traffic areas and buildings’ main
entrances, being sliding doors the most convenient to use as they do not
require guardrails for door-swing protection.

Power-assisted doors can be automatically activated using a motion detector, a

floor-pad sensor, or be manually activated by pushing a control.

Power-assisted swinging doors shall:

a) Take 3 s or more to move from a closed to a fully open position.

b) Remain fully open for a minimum of 5 s.
c) Require a force of not more than 66 N to stop door movement.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 50

19 Glass doors and surfaces
All fixed glass surfaces shall not be confused with doors or openings,

Glass doors or panels that do not have elements that can be identified, such as
frames or handles, shall contain visual elements that guarantee its detection.

The marks shall consist of two horizontal bands, each at least 100 mm high,
and shall have a reflectance contrast with the glass background of at least 30
points LRV (Light Reflectance Value).

The upper band shall be affixed at a height between 1400 mm and 1600 mm
and the lower band affixed at a height between 850 mm and 1000 mm above
the floor.

It is not necessary to mark the glass surfaces with contrasted bands in the
following cases:

a) In glass surfaces of less than 500 mm in width.

b) The highest point of the glass surface is less than 850 mm.
c) If it has other opaque elements between 850 mm and 1700 mm occupying
its entire width.
d) If it has other types of marks (logo, artistic illustrations, etc.) that occupy
50% of the area between 850 mm and 1700 mm without empty spaces
bigger than 500 mm wide.
e) Glass surfaces with fixed elements in front of it that block the entire
approaching space.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 51

 Figure 32. Marks on glass doors or surfaces

Figure 33. Use of glass marks on a building entrance

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 52

20 Window and window hardware
Windows and window hardware shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) Windows should not open outwards into circulation routes below a height of
2100 mm.
b) Pressure mechanisms or levers are preferred and shall not require wrist
turning or pinching, and should be easy to operate with a single hand, or be
automatically operated.
c) The glazing should start no higher than 900 mm from the floor in order to
provide exterior vision to children, people with short stature and wheelchair
users if they will be regular users of a room or building. Guardrail protection
shall be provided if windows can be opened lower than 1200 mm.
d) Window controls and hardware shall be positioned between 800mm –
1000mm above floor level.
e) Figure 34 shows a window layout with a fixed panel between 900 and 1200
as a security measure for children, but still allowing viewable area.

Figure 34. Window height with fixed glass

Example of accessible and safety layout providing exterior view from a low
height, for facilities aimed primarily for children

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 53

21 Handrails and grab bars

21.1 Handrails
Handrails provide support, stability and guidance to users, especially during a
fire evacuation. Handrails must be designed to be easy to grasp and to provide
firm and comfortable grip, allowing the hand to slide along the rail without any
obstruction.

Handrails used in stair, ramps or any other level change must meet the
following requirements:

Stairs and ramps with a change in level greater than 500 mm must have
continuous handrails on both sides with a 300 mm horizontal extension at its
ends. Figures 35, 36, 37, 38 and 39 show the characteristics of accessible
handrails for ramps and stairs, including its use in combination with guardrails
(Fig. 35).

When the stair widths are greater than 2700 mm an additional intermediate
handrail should be installed. The width between intermediate handrails should
be at most 1500 mm.

In ramps, the distance between the handrails shall be 1000 mm.

Handrails should be continuous throughout the flight of a ramp, stair, stepped

path and intermediate landing, except where they intercept with a doorway or
path of travel.

The handrail should be mounted at a height of 900 mm. An additional handrail

shall be provided at a height between 650 mm and 750 mm.

The handrails must be safely secured and installed to resist a force of at least
1.3 kN applied vertically or horizontally.

Handrails must have an anatomical design that allows adjustment to the hand
with a circular section of 32 mm to 40 mm diameter or an equivalent gripping
surface. Handrails must be separated from the wall surface at least 40 mm. The
handrail section and its mounting system should not interfere with the
continuous gripping surface.

Handrails must have a contrasted reflectance of at least 30 points LRV against

its background.

Handrails can have raised text or tactile symbols unobtrusively and permanently
fixed as an important source of information or people with visual impairments,
e.g. indication of floor number, location of fire exits, etc., as shown in Figure 40.

All handrail materials exposed to intense sun radiation shall prevent reaching
high temperatures that may damage the users.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 54

 Figure 35. Use of railing and grab bars

Figure 36. Handrails profile

Only rounded or oval shape are suitable for handrails

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 55

 Figure 37. Handrails’ gripping area

The handrail should be circular in shape to provide proper grip and support

Figure 38. Handrail’s distance to wall

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 56

 Figure 39. Railing and grab bars in ramps.

Figure 40. Tactile information on handrails

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 57

21.2 Grab bars
Grab bars shall:

a) Be slip-resistant
b) Have a diameter between 32 and 40 mm
c) Have a space of 40mm between the grab bar and the wall where mounted

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 58

22 Tactile surfaces
Tactile pavements are textured surfaces with contrasted colour that are
perceptible and identifiable by feel of feet or cane, or residual functional vision
that warns or informs people with visual disabilities.

Tactile pavements shall have a reflectance contrast with the surrounding

pavement of at least 50 points LRV and the height of this pavement above the
finished floor level cannot be greater than 4 mm.

People who are blind or have visual impairments need a tactile element for
helping in their orientation across large outdoor areas. Tactile surfaces shall be
used to indicate the accessible route, especially where no other clues indicate
the route to, from, around or inside a building; where there is a situation that
may represent a hazard to persons with vision impairment, or that is not
highlighted by any other feature.

Tactile pavements must be installed according to the following criteria for:

a) Detectable warning surfaces

b) Tactile guiding surfaces

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 59

22.1 Detectable warning surfaces
Detectable warning surface are used as a warning for upcoming level changes
or obstacles on the path of travel. Warning pavement shall be constructed of
truncated cones arranged in a square grid or diagonal rows and installed with
bands oriented in the crosswise direction of the path of travel. It must be
installed along the entire width of the element and not less than 300 mm from
the beginning of the dangerous element. The warning surface shall have a
width between 300 mm and 400m.

The most common elements where warnings are required include:

• stairs,
• ramps,
• rail and port platform borders,
• unprotected changes in level,
• pedestrian crossings
• to indicate the end of a tactile guiding surfaces

Figure 41. Detectable warning surface specifications

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 60

22.2 Tactile guiding surfacesiv
Tactile guiding surfaces are elements used as a directional sign to assist the
independent mobility of people with visual disabilities. Guiding patterns should
be constructed of flat-topped elongated bars. Bars must be oriented in the
direction of the course of travel.

The tactile guiding surface shall have a minimum width of 400 mm. The
distance among longitudinal stripes can’t exceed 32 mm.

Figure 42. Tactile guiding surface specifications

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 61

 Figure 43. Example of tactile surfaces use

The image shows the lay out of the combined use of warning and guidance
tactile surfaces towards a building’s entrance

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 62

 Figure 44. Example of tactile surfaces use

The image shows the lay out of the combined use of warning and guidance
tactile surfaces towards an elevator’s controls

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 63

23 Vertical circulations

23.1 Elevators
A conventional accessible passenger elevator should be provided in every new
public building with more than one floor.

Accessible elevators in new public buildings must be accessible from the

ground floor and reach all levels intended for use by the building occupants,
including any below ground level.

In existing buildings, where the installation of such elevator might not be

possible, an enclosed vertical lifting platform should be provided, for maximum
allowed travel heights as indicated in Section 23.4

Signs indicating the location of accessible elevators should be provided and be

visible from the building entrance and in each floor.

The requirements to be fulfilled by an accessible elevator are:

a) The dimensions should be appropriate for the intended number of users and
in all instances, equal to or bigger than the hereby specified minimum
dimensions of the cabin.
b) The minimum internal car dimension shall be no less 1200mm by 1400 mm.
However, considering the current use of motor wheelchairs and scooter, the
recommended minimum dimensions shall be 1500 mm by 1500 mm.
c) If a facility has various options of vertical circulation there shall be a sign
indicating the location of the accessible elevator.

23.2 Elevator’s doors and lobby specifications

The elevator doors for each floor and the car must be:

• automatic operation,
• have a minimum width of 900 mm,
• minimum height of 2100 mm,
• and present colour contrast against the surrounding walls.

Doors shall open automatically and shall remain opened at least 3 seconds.

There should be a minimum clear manoeuvring space of 1500 mm x 1500 mm

in front of the elevator access door and in front of the hall’s call buttons.

Elevators’ call buttons shall be located at a height between 900 mm and 1200
mm.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 64

Floor indicators shall be located at a height of maximum 1800 mm.

There should be an audible announcement of lift arrival and direction of travel.

A sign indicating the number of the floor should be provided in each elevator
lobby on the wall opposite to the elevator landing doors.

23.3 Elevator car features

Handrails shall be placed in at least to interior walls, at a height of 900 mm from
the floor, preferably three shall be provided, located on both sides and at the
rear of the car.

The floor should be slip-resistant and have similar qualities as the floor of the
elevator landing to minimize the risk of slips, trips and falls. The elevator car’s
floor shall be level with the landing in each floor.

A mirror shall be placed inside the elevator on the wall opposite to the door,
from the handrail height upward, covering the full back panel.

Braille and tactile signage shall be provided on the door jamb at a height of
1500 mm, indicating the floor number or name.

Audible signals or an audible voice announcement shall sound when each floor
is reached.

Buttons shall be located at a height between 900 mm and 1200 mm. They shall
present high-embossed European numerals. Braille numerals shall be located
on the left lower side of each button.

For elevators serving a large number of floors, a keypad shall be installed at a

maximum height of 1200 mm to ensure that all floors can be called, or a second
buttons panel, placed horizontally, at a maximum height of 900mm.

The button to reach the facility’s exit floor shall be raised at least 3 mm from the
other buttons and be circled with a green line of at least 2 mm wide.

Call buttons in each floor can contain icons instead of digits in tactile and colour
contrast against the background.

Buttons shall always provide a two-channel feedback when pressed: visual and
acoustic or visual and tactile. Touch buttons and touch screens are not
permitted.

Lights should be installed on the ceiling, providing a uniform illumination with a

minimum of 100 lux. The illumination should not cause glare, reflection,
confusing shadows or pools of light and darkness.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 65

It must have a sign with graphic and tactile information, indicating the phone
number of the alarm centre and the appropriate number to report an
emergency.

The closing of doors shall be controlled by a user protection device and to

ensure that doors reopen automatically if there is a person or any other obstacle
in the doorway, and shall not produce a force greater than 135 N. Sensors
should be located at two levels in the doorway to ensure that they detect lower
items.

Figure 45. Elevator specifications

Minimum dimensions, indicating interior dimensions, door width and location

of controls

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 66

 Figure 46. Elevator buttons layoutv

23.4 Lifting platformsvi

Vertical liftings platforms are an option in existing buildings where a
conventional passenger elevator cannot be installed.

They can be of two types, depending on the use and maximum height:

• Enclosed platforms.
• Non-enclosed platforms

A vertical lift platform must fulfil the following requirements:

a) For enclosed platforms, the maximum allowed travel height is 4000 mm.
b) For non-enclosed platforms, the maximum allowed travel height is 2000 mm,
in public buildings and 3000 mm in private housing.
c) If full height enclosure is not required, the minimum height of the partition
shall be 1000 mm.
d) The lift platform must have dimensions that allow its use by a wheelchair
user.
e) The platform has a clear usable area of 900 mm x 1400 mm (width x length).

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 67

f) Access to the platform areas shall be free of obstacles in every landing with
minimum dimensions of 1500 mm x 1500 mm.
g) The lift-calling button shall be at a height between 700 mm and 1200 mm, in
both ends, adjacent to a clear manoeuvring space.
h) The platform’s entrance or exit shall have minimum 900 mm width and be
free of obstacles.
i) It must have side protection separating users from the walls of the lift
platform shaft.
j) Inside the platform cabin, at least two handrails shall be placed at a height of
900 mm from the floor.
k) The control buttons design shall be accessible. They shall have a
continuous pressure button operation and shall be operable with one hand.
l) There should be an additional external control for the platform that could be
used by authorized personnel when necessary.
m) The platform shall have doors in both ends, of either manual or automatic
operation.

Figure 47. Specifications for non-enclosed platforms

The location of the platform may vary, according to the space design or
barriers. The image shoes a non-enclosed platform located by the side of a
staircase, a common location for this type of platforms.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 68

24 Ramps
Building should be designed to avoid the need for ramps on internal circulation
routes. Curved ramps are not allowed.

In addition to a ramp, a flight of stairs should be provided if the change in level

is more than 300mm. When the change in level is less than 300 mm, a ramp
should be the only viable means of access and avoids the need of a single step.

Ramps should be used when a change in level has a gradient greater than 5%.

The maximum slope is 8% or 1:12 for ramps, and 12% or 1:8 for kerb ramps.
The maximum cross fall gradient is 2%. The slope of a ramp must meet the
specifications in Table 4:

Table 4. Ramps specificationsvii

Max.
Max. Max. length
Max. Max. Outdoor Handrails
rise, slope, between Indoor use
slope slope use required
mm mm/m landings,
mm
Less Less
no
than than <50 no limit no
limit
1:20 5%
1:20
500 5% 50 10 000
1:19
460 5% 53 8 740
1:18
420 5% 56 7 560
1:17
385 6% 59 6 545
yes yes
1:16 yes
350 6% 63 5 600
1:15
315 7% 67 4 725
1:14
280 7% 71 3 920
1:13
245 8% 77 3 185
1:12
210 8% 83 2 520
1:11
180 9% 91 1 980
1:10 Kerb ramps not
150 10 % 100 1 500
only recommended
no
1:9
110 11 % 111 990
1:8
75 12% 125 600 threshold ramps only

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 69

Ramp runs shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) The maximum length is 10 meters between landings.

b) The ramp’s run usable width shall be 1000 mm.
c) Ramp widths shall be free of obstacles. The usable width of 1000 mm is
measured between the handrails. If the ramp is open, it shall have an
outside edge protection or a lateral protection element of at least 100 mm in
height.
d) The beginning and the end of each ramp run shall have a warning surface
following the requirements of Section 22.

Landings shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) There are level landings required at the beginning and at the end of every
ramp run. These landings shall have a minimum surface of 1500 mm x 1500
mm.
b) Landings should be level with less than 2% slope in the direction of travel
and crosswise directions.
c) Corridors located in landings shall have no less than 1200 mm width.
d) Doors shall be located at least 1500 mm away from the start or end of each
ramp run.
e) Artificial lighting should be evenly distributed, with an illuminance at the
ramp and landings of at least 100 lux.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 70

 Figure 48. Colour contrast specifications for ramps

The coloured bands shall be the same as the detectable warning surfaces
specified in Figure 49

Figure 49. Location of warning surfaces in ramp’s landings

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 71

 Figure 50. Ramp specifications

The above Figure 50, shows ramps specifications with maximum allowed
gradient and length. The final length and gradient of an individual ramp may
vary depending on the height to cover, according to Table 4 and available
space for its construction.

In any case, the gradient for one single run shall not be more than 8% and the
maximum length shall not be more than 10 meters between landings.

To comply with these measurements, a multi-sections ramp may be needed,

with one or more runs and/or landings.

24.1 Temporary ramps

Temporary ramps to provide temporary solutions when a permanent ramp is not
possible, or during building or maintenance works, shall be designed in
accordance to this section.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 72

 Figure 51. Combined use of ramps and stairs

Figure 52. Ramps’ handrails specifications.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 73

 Figure 53. Intersection of ramp and corridor

The ramp shall have a landing area if intersecting with a corridor

Figure 54. Clear space between ramp and doors

The ramp shall have a landing area if nearby a door

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 74

25 Stairs
Curved stairs should be avoided as the variable steps’ width may prevent
providing the required specifications as described below.

25.1 Steps
Steps shall the following characteristics:

a) Rises shall have a maximum height between 150 mm and 170 mm.
b) In straight flights, the dimension of the stair tread must be between 300 mm
and 340 mm.
c) The rise (R) and tread (T) must meet the following relation: 640 mm < 2R +
T < 680 mm.
d) No open risers or discontinued treads are allowed.
e) The run of a step is the dimension measured from the edge of the nosing of
a tread to the vertical projection of the nosing of the next step.
f) All steps shall be fitted with non-slip nosing strips between 50 mm and 65
mm in width, with permanent contrasting colours.
g) The tread and rise shall have contrasting colours.

Figure 55. No open risers are allowed

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 75

 Figure 56. Steps specifications

25.2 Stair flights

Each stair flight must meet the following characteristics:

a) A detectable warning surface shall be provided at the beginning, end and

intermediate landing of each stair flight.
b) Each flight shall have between 3 steps and maximum of 12.
c) The usable width of the flight shall be at least 1200 mm.
d) The width of stairs should be free of obstacles overhead, particularly the
underside of the stairs themselves. The minimum usable width is measured
between walls or guardrails, without deducting the space occupied by the
handrails as long as they do not protrude from the walls or guardrails more
than 120 mm.
e) Illumination at the top and bottom and along of the flight should be, at least
200 lux.

Each stair landing must meet the following characteristics:

a) Landings located between stairs flights in the same direction should

maintain at least the same stair width and have a minimum length of 1200
mm.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 76

b) When there is a directional change between two flights, the width of the
landing shall not be reduced. This width must be free of obstacles and free
from any door opening.

Figure 57. Stairs single flight specifications

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 77

 Figure 58. Stairs, multiple flights specifications

c) Where the headroom under a stair in a pedestrian area is reduced to less

than 2200 mm from the floor, a guardrail or other barrier shall be provided
with a minimum height of 700 mm.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 78

 Figure 59. Clear space below stairs

25.3 Escalators
Escalators are not suitable for people with buggies or wheelchair users.

An alternative shall be where an escalator is used as the main means of

access. Signs shall direct people the alternative means of access

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 79

26 Toilet and sanitary roomsviii
The requirements contained in this section apply to buildings and facilities for
public use, for example: work places, parks, hotels, sport and recreation
facilities, parks, public buildings.

At least one accessible toilet for each gender and in every bank of toilets shall
be accessible.

If only one toilet for each gender is provided, then it must be accessible.

The accessible toilet room shall always contain a washbasin.

Public toilet shall have non-slippery floor surfaces.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 80

26.1 Accessible urinals
If urinals are provided, at least one urinal shall be accessible according to the
following requirements:

Urinals that reach the floor are preferred as they can accommodate users of
different heights. The bottom lip should be at a maximum height of 300 mm.

Grab bars shall be provided on both sides of the urinal, have a minimum height
of 600 mm, mounted vertically with the lower point of the grab bar located at a
maximum height of 700mm from the floor level

Where privacy screens are provided there should be a clearance of 920 mm

between them and shall not extend beyond the front edge of the urinal rim

Figure 60. Accessible urinals

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 81

26.2 Toilet bowl and seat
The top of the toilet seat shall be between 450 mm and 500 mm.

The minimum distance from the edge of the toilet seat to the rear wall should be
between 650 mm and 800 mm.

The minimum distance of a corner toilet from the pan to the adjacent wall
should be 250 mm, and from the centre line of the toilet to the adjacent wall
should be 450 mm.

Toilet bowls without water tank shall provide a back support, as showed in
Figure 62.

Figure 61. Toilet seat specifications

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 82

26.3 Accessible individual toilets
Accessible toilet compartments can be located either inside of the cluster of
toilets provided for each gender or outside the cluster of toilets.

If the individual toilet compartment is outside the cluster of toilets, it shall be

located adjacent to the cluster or at a very short distance of each gender’s
cluster.

In facilities with small internal areas without enough space to provide regular
toilets and accessible toilets, there should be at least one accessible toilet
compartment for each gender available to all users.

Family toilets should be located outside of the cluster of toilets.

Accessible toilets shall fulfil the following requirements:

The door should have a clear width of 900 mm and comply with Doors section
of this Code.

Furniture shall have a reflectance contrast with the walls of at least 30 points
LRV (Light Reflectance Value).

Every cabin door shall be provided with a latch operable with one hand, located
between 900 and 1200 mm and a coat hanger installed between 1100 and 1200
mm.

The clear manoeuvring space at floor level in front of the toilet seat and
washbasin shall be 1500 m x 1500 mm.

Each toilet block for both genders shall include a baby changing table duly
marked.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 83

26.4 Type A individual toilet, lateral transfer from both sides
Characteristics:

a) Lateral transfer space from both sides of the toilet.

b) The minimum free clearance besides the toilet shall be 900 mm.
c) Manoeuvring space uninterrupted by washbasin.
d) Independent water supply besides toilet seat, right hand side.
e) Horizontal foldable grab bar at both sides that should overlap the front edge
of the seat between 100 mm and 250 mm.
f) Toilet paper dispenser on both folding grab bars.
g) A changing table shall be provided in all accessible toilet rooms.
h) Minimum dimensions are 2300 mm x 2000 mm.

Figure 62. Type A individual toilet.

Transfer space from either side

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 84

26.5 Type B corner individual toilet room
Characteristics:

a) Lateral transfer only from one side.

b) The minimum free clearance besides the toilet shall be 900 mm.
c) Manoeuvring space uninterrupted by washbasin.
d) Independent water supply besides toilet seat, right hand side.
e) Horizontal grab bar at a height of 200mm to 250 mm above the toilet seat
and extend a minimum of 150mm from the front end of the seat.
f) Vertical grab bar beside the toilet seat, above the horizontal bar, with a
length of minimum 600 mm, as specified in Section 24.2, Figure 61.
g) Foldable grab bar on the transfer side.
h) Toilet dispenser fixed on the wall beside the toilet seat.
i) Minimum dimensions are 1700 mm x 2000 mm.

Figure 63. Type B individual toilet

Adjacent to a wall and transfer space on one side only, could be either the left
or right side,

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 85

26.6 Washbasins
Washbasins shall meet the following requirements:

a) Washbasins shall not be the pedestal type and shall have clear knee space
below.
b) Clear knee space dimensions are a minimum 700 mm high and 250 mm
deep, from the faucet to the edge.
c) The usable surface height shall be between 800 mm and 850 mm.
d) When washbasins are in a row at least one shall be possible to use with all
the accessories, such as soap and paper towel dispensers.
e) Faucets shall be operated by pressure with a lever handle, operable with a
closed fist, or be sensor operated. Turning or pressure systems that require
great effort to be operated are not allowed.
f) The distance from the washbasins edge to the faucet shall be less than 600
mm and its height from the floor shall be between 900 mm and 1200 mm.
g) The lower edge of the mirror shall be mounted at a 900 mm height or less.
h) The pipes under the washbasins should be recessed or otherwise covered
to avoid contact with a wheelchair user’s knees.
i) Shall not interfere with the manoeuvring space of wheelchair users while
transferring to the toilet bowl.

Figure 64. Accessible washbasin.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 86

26.7 Restroom’s control and accessories
All controls and accessories shall meet the following requirements:

Flushing systems shall be operated by sensor or with a flush handle.

Controls shall have a large surface and are operable with one hand only.

Controls and accessories such as soap dispensers or dryers, shall be mounted

at a height between 700 mm and 1200 mm.

Figure 65. Height of controls and accessories in toilets

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 87

26.8 Toilet rooms doors
Doors must meet the following requirements:

a) Unobstructed width of at least 900 mm.

b) Fulfil the door criteria set out in the Door section of this code.
c) Open outwards or be sliding.
d) A horizontal handle bar with a length of 300 mm shall be placed at a height
between 900 mm and 1000 mm at 300 mm from the hinge side on the inside
of the door and by the latch side on the outside of the door.

Figure 66. Toilet room’s door

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 88

26.9 Accessible showers
Where showers are provided, at least one shall be accessible.

Showers shall meet the following requirements:

a) The shower floor surface shall be flush with the level of the surrounding
area. The maximum slope for water evacuation is 4%.
b) If a shower is provided it shall have a minimum dimension of 900 mm x 1300
mm and have a seat of at least 400 mm x 400 mm. This seat shall be
located at a height between 450mm and 500 mm from the floor and be
separated from the wall between 150 mm and 200 mm. The seat shall be
free of sharp edges. Adjustable height seats are preferred; especially in
hotels and residences.
c) Accessible showers shall have a horizontal grab bar to assist in transferring
and a vertical one for support. The horizontal bar shall have a length of 800
mm and be mounted at a height of 700 mm to 750 mm from the floor level in
the wall beside the shower seat. The vertical bar with a length of 800 mm
shall be installed in the lateral wall of the shower seat at a height of 800 mm.
The distance between both bars installed on both sides of the shower seat
shall be between 670 mm and 700 mm.
d) Alternative systems such as bath chairs with the same features can be
provided.
e) Controls shall be within 500 mm of the seat.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 89

 Figure 67. Accessible shower seat

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 90

27 Family-friendly facilities
The provision of family friendly facilities for nursing women, young children and
persons with disabilities requiring the assistance of caregivers shall apply to the
following buildings:

• Transport stations, airports.

• Sport complexes and public swimming pools.
• Theme parks and purpose-built family amusement centres.
• Large scale shopping and multi-purpose complexes of size more than
10,000 sqm. in gross floor area.

The following facilities shall be provided:

a) At every level where toilets are provided:

• 1 family toilet for each block of toilets

b) At least one feeding room at an appropriate location. If they facility is family

oriented, a dual feeding room may be provided.
c) At least one child protection seat
d) Seating areas at appropriate locations along frequently accessed routes and
spaces

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 91

27.1 Family toiletsix
It is recommended 1 family toilet for each block of toilets. At least 1 family toilet
within 300 m distance from any part of the building shall be provided.

A family toilet is considered accessible when it meets the requirements

specified for accessible toilets and following these specifications:

a) It provides a second washbasin at a height of 500 mm from the floor.

b) There is a clear manoeuvring turning space of at least 2000 mm diameter
free of obstacles.
c) In addition to the toilet, a urinal shall be provided with a usable height of 400
mm.
d) There is a diaper changing station for babies. It is recommended to include
an adult sized changing board instead.
e) An emergency call button shall be provided.

Figure 68. Accessible family toilet.

Layout of a fully equipped facility toilet, including urinal, a washbasin at a

lower height, and foldable adult size changing board

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 92

27.2 Feeding roomsx
A feeding room shall meet the following requirements:

a) Its surface shall be at least 7 sq. meters for individual feeding rooms and 10
sq. meters for dual feeding rooms.
b) Its design should ensure an ease of movement with a pram and a child on
the arms.
c) It shall have proper ventilation for any smell generated by the diaper waste
bins as well as proper place for the diaper waste bins.
d) Furniture shall have a reflectance contrast with the walls of at least 30 points
LRV (Light Reflectance Value).

Two examples are provided below. All elements and appliances described in
the following Figures 69, 70 and 71 shall be provided although not necessarily
with the same distribution.

Figure 69. Feeding room option A

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 93

 Figure 70. Feeding room option A, elevation.

Figure 71. Feeding room option B

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 94

27.3 Child protection seats
Shall be located either in:

a) One of the water closet compartments in both males and females’ toilet
blocks.
b) Family toilet.

28 Ablution areasxi
A minimum of 5%, but never less than one ablution unit shall be accessible and
available in each ablution room.

Accessible ablution spaces shall be adjacent to an accessible route within

ablution rooms. The ablution room featuring an accessible ablution spaces shall
be connected through an accessible route to other spaces such as entrance,
prayer room, toilets and emergency exit.

Electronic or sensor faucets shall be installed in ablution areas to facilitate its

use and to reduce water waste.

In addition to the dimensions and characteristics of the accessible washbasins

described in Section 23.5 of this code, ablution units shall meet the following
requirements:

a) It shall be linked to an accessible path and shall be the closest to the

entrance door.
b) Two horizontal grab bars, one in each side of the sink, shall be mounted at a
height between 700 mm and 800 mm and have a support length, equal to
the length of the sink.
c) A bidet shower system, soap and paper dispensers shall be mounted near
the sink. All accessories of toilets, including the bidet shower should be
mounted at a height between 700 mm and 1200 mm.
d) An approaching free space of 1200 mm width shall be provided. The
pavement of this interaction space shall have a reflectance contrast with the
surrounding pavement of at least 30 points LRV (Light Reflectance Value).

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 95

 Figure 72. Accessible ablution space layout

Figure 73. Accessible washbasin for ablution areas

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 96

29 Furniture

29.1 Accessible chairs and benches

Accessible chairs and benches must fulfil the following requirements:

a) The seat height shall be 430 mm with a ± 30 mm tolerance.

b) The seat depth shall be between 400 mm and 450 mm.
c) It has a backrest and its height shall be between 400 mm and 460 mm.
d) Some seats should have armrests.
e) It has a transfer space on one side, out of the accessible route.
f) It is recommended to provide furniture with standing support, in combination
with benches of varied height.
g) In urban spaces and parks benches shall be places at least every 100
meters while in big buildings like shopping malls or airports benches or other
seat types shall be provided every 50 meters.

Figure 74. Accessible chair with clear space

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 97

 Figure 75. Accessible bench with clear space

29.2 Tables
Tables shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) Tables shall not be higher than 800 mm with a minimum clear room for leg
space of 680 mm high and 480 mm deep.
b) Tables with integrated seats should be avoided.

Figure 76. Accessible table or desk

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 98

29.3 Drinking fountains
Drinking fountains must meet the following requirements:

a) Two fountains with different heights shall be provided, one no higher than
915 mm above the floor for the accessible unit.
b) Drinking fountains shall allow its use through frontal approach.
c) If the push button is manual, it shall be at a height of between 700 mm and
1200 mm and have an accessible mechanism that is easy to operate.
d) Water should be attainable at a height of between 600 mm and 850 mm ±
50 mm, and near to the approaching space. The design must prevent the
user from getting wet during use.
e) Drinking fountains should provide bottle fillers.
f) Drinking fountains should be located in a niche where possible to ensure
that it is not a protrusion hazard.
g) Drinking fountains should be installed against a contrasting background to
increase visibility.

Figure 77. Accessible drinking fountain.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 99

29.4 Vending machines, ATMs, Auto-pay machines
Vending machines and ATMs should be accessible, according to the following
criteria:

a) There is at least one frontal or lateral clear interaction space ensuring

privacy. The floor surface is smooth and non-slippery with a gradient of no
more than 2%.
b) If the vending machine protrudes from the vertical wall, edges must extend
to the floor in all its plane projection.
c) Screen and keyboard are visible from a point located 1000 mm above the
floor. There are no reflections or glare.
d) Direct illumination of the screen should to be avoided.
e) All control buttons, as well as containers for withdrawal or deposit of
products must be placed at a height between 400 mm and 1200 mm
(preferred between 900 mm to 1000 mm) from the floor and must be
separated at least 600 mm from any corner.
f) Control buttons shall present high embossed text and Braille.
g) Exterior vending machines should provide a canopy, extending a minimum
of 1200mm from the machine’s face and placed no less than 2200mm above
ground.

When bank, identification or validation cards have to be used, the device must
meet the following requirements:

a) The card reader is located at a height between 800 mm and 1000 mm from
the floor level and slot is bevelled.
b) Should be colour contrasted with the background surface. Tactile symbols
and graphics that represent the card inserting direction must be included.
c) There should be an illuminated card above the slot, flashing when the card
is inserted or withdrawn.
d) It must have a visual and acoustic system to indicate validation of access to
the service and to alert in case of forgetting the card or money withdrawn.
e) It shall provide audio for all information.
f) In the case of transport ticket vending machines or ATMs a CCTV Intercom
shall be provided if personnel assistance is not available.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 100

g) The slots are wide and have a funnel effect that facilitates the insertion of
coins or cards.

In all instances, there shall be sufficient dimensions to collect products issued or

to retrieve the card.

Figure 78. Accessible vending /auto-pay machine

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 101

30 Mosques and prayer roomsxii
Access to all areas of worship and other activity areas in the Mosque should be
provided, assuming that people with disabilities may be participants, leaders,
staff, or volunteers.

Mosques and prayer room shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) An accessible route shall connect parking and outdoors pedestrian paths

with the building entrance and interior spaces. An accessible entrance shall
be provided.
b) A clear area shall be provided at the entrance to prevent shoes from
blocking the accessible route and door. This shall be complemented with a
KEEP CLEAR mat if the clear entrance is not guaranteed.
c) Seats shall be provided at entrances and at other locations where people
are required to remove their shoes.
d) Seating should also be provided within the prayer hall to accommodate
people who cannot bend to pray.
e) Provision should be made to address the potential lack of cleanliness of
mobility device wheels where the route to the designated area crosses
prayer hall carpeting.
f) Any accessible route that may require crossing the prayer hall’s carpeting
shall have low pile carpeting.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 102

31 Entertainment, conferences, lecture facilities
This section applies to audience seating, lecture theatres, seminar rooms,
conference facilities, entertainment and sport venues, on either level or raked
floors, which comprise audience seating.

When fixed seating is used, wheelchair spaces should be located in different

parts of the seating layout to provide a range of choice of seating position.

When the room is on a level floor and seating is not fixed, all parts of the room
shall be accessible to the wheelchair users.

Unobstructed line of sight shall be equivalent for people using the accessible
seating spaces.

31.1 Accessible seating spaces.

An auditorium seating space is considered accessible when it meets the
following requirements:

a) It is connected to an accessible route.

b) Accessible seating can be provided with either permanent or removable
seating.
c) Level wheelchair spaces with dimensions shall be of at least 900 mm x 1400
mm if approached frontally and 900 mm x 1500 mm if the approach is lateral
shall be provided.
d) A level manoeuvring space of 1500 mm x 1500 mm must connect to each
wheelchair space.
e) It shall be marked with the international symbol of access (ISA), whether as
permanent seating spaces or removable seating areas.
f) Both the surface of wheelchair spaces and the clear manoeuvring space are
level having a maximum longitudinal gradient of 1%.
g) For facilities with fixed seats, designated wheelchair spaces shall be
arranged into groups of 2. Each group of wheelchair spaces must have at
least an equal number of fixed seats.
h) If the designated wheelchair spaces include removable or foldable seats, the
conversion process shall be quick and easy.
i) Wheelchair spaces shall be provided in all auditorium-seating sections.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 103

j) The number of reserved wheelchair spaces shall comply: 1 reserved
wheelchair space for every 50 seats or fraction thereof and beyond 500
seats, 1 more for every 100 seats or fraction thereof.
k) In theatres, cinemas, conference rooms, auditoriums and all the facilities
where people are expected to sit or wait, it is recommended that some seats
should have a space for service animals near the owner.
l) A space at the front of the hall or room where a sign language interpreter
can be easily seen shall have an independent overhead light.
m) A sufficient number of designated accessible seats for people with hearing
impairments should be provided in front of the sign language interpreter.
n) Aisle seats and its adjacent shall have foldable armrests.
o) Accessible seating should not obstruct participants, or other members of the
audience.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 104

 Figure 79. Auditorium and theatre accessible seating layout

31.2 Podiums and backstage areas

Podiums with a level change should have ramps designed in accordance with
Section 24.

Where podium is very high and there is no space for placing a ramp with
adequate gradient, a lifting platform should be provided, in accordance with
Section 23.4.

An accessible route should be provided between the backstage area and

dressing rooms, storage areas, toilets, showers and exit routes.

31.3 Box office counters

Box office counters should be accessible to wheelchair users, conforming to

recommendations for front desks in Section 13.3.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 105

31.4 Study places

Study places shall provide access, circulations and furniture in accordance with
the minimum width and height provided in this Code.

31.5 Hearing enhancement systems

A hearing enhancement system (such as an induction loop, FM or infrared) is
required to communicate with hard of hearing persons and shall be provided in
the following types of buildings:

• meeting rooms,
• auditoriums,
• service counters,
• theatres
• lecture/concert halls.

A hearing enhancement system enables sound signals to be transmitted to

persons using hearing aids without interference from background noise or
excessive reverberation level.

Hearing enhancement systems that operate using induction loops, infrared and
radio frequency are commonly used to provide enhanced level of sound.

Where hearing enhancement systems are provided for persons with hearing
impairment, the international symbol of access for hearing loss shall be
provided.

Hearing enhancement systems shall be compatible with language translation

systems.

A sign should be posted indicating that the enhancement system is available.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 106

32 Accessible hotel rooms
Every hotel shall provide access to all the services and facilities it offers,
complying with all Sections in this Code.

Hotel rooms shall fulfil the following requirements:

a) There should be an accessible route leading to the accessible rooms and

from them to other hotel premises open to all guests.
b) At least 10% of hotel rooms shall be accessible, or at least one of each type
of room offered, such as: standard bedrooms, suites, penthouse, etc.
c) Accessible rooms should include a mix of single, twin, family or double room
formats, depending on the hotel size and category.
d) A clear route shall be provided to the bed with a minimum clear space of
1500 x 1500 mm beside the bed.
e) The bed in the accessible rooms shall have a maximum height of 500 mm.
f) The accessible rooms shall be provided with acoustic and visual fire alarms
in the living areas and toilet, as well as a doorbell with sound and visual
notification.
g) A minimum of illumination of 200 lux shall be provided in the living area and
toilet.
h) Lightning should have two-way switching in order to facility operating the
lights form the room entrance or from the bed.
i) Controls shall be placed at a height between 700 mm to 1200 mm except for
the ones to be used from the bed. Electric outlets shall be provided at a
height between 400 – 1000 mm.
j) Accessible rooms should be able to interconnect with adjacent rooms, via
accessible doors.
k) The bedroom’s door locks should use an electronic operating system, for
example card-operated or proximity card,
l) An accessible toilet bowl with grab bars shall be provided in compliance with
this Code.
m) Half of the accessible hotel rooms shall provide roll-in showers while the
other half shall provide bathtubs following the requirements of the drawings
below. In both cases an alarm string shall be provided.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 107

n) A dressing mirror where the user can see his or her reflexion from 250 mm
to 2000 mm shall be provided.
o) Shelves and drawers shall be provided between 700mm to 1200 mm from
the floor, and at least one section of the clothes hanger should be placed at
1100 mm from the floor.
p) A viewing device should be provided in the door at a height between 800
mm – 1000 mm.
q) There shall be no change for entering the bathroom, including the
washbasin, toilet and shower sections.

Figure 80. Accessible hotel rooms

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 108

 Figure 81. Accessible bathroom with bathtub

Figure 82. Accessible shower, transfer space in both sides

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 109

 Figure 83. Accessible shower, transfer space in one sides

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 110

33 Accessible dining rooms
Restaurant, cafes, lounges and self-service dining services shall fulfil the
following requirements:

a) An accessible route shall be provided to reach at least half of the dining

areas.
b) Changes in level on the seating area shall be served by ramps, according to
the specifications of this Code.
c) At least 10% of the tables shall comply with the dimensional criteria for
tables described in the Furniture section of this Code and shall be connected
to an accessible route. At least a 900 mm of clear width shall be provided to
access these tables.
d) In facilities with fixed seats to the tables, at least 10% of the seats shall be
movable.
e) If fixed tables are used, chairs should be movable.
f) Tables and chairs should provide visual contrast with their surrounding
environment.
g) Illumination of at least 100 lux shall be provided in at least 10% of the dining
room.
h) Sound reduction materials should be incorporated into dining rooms.
i) The floors, and walls shall be made of a smooth & washable material that is
easily cleaned and non-absorbent.
j) Where self-service food displays or shelves are used, all food, condiments
and ramplery shall be located between 900 mm and 1200 mm from the floor.
k) If queuing lines are used for self-service they should be at least 1100mm
wide and marked with queuing rails. Rails should have colour contras with
the surrounding elements or surfaces.
l) A clear passage of a minimum of 900 mm should be provided to all food
service areas, condiments and utensils.
m) Space for children strollers and mobility devices shall be provided.

If kitchen facilities or self-service amenities are provided in buildings, they

should be accessible. Kitchens or kitchenettes shall provide enough
Manoeuvring spaces, as shown in Figure 85.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 111

Kitchens or kitchenettes should provide work surfaces or appliances at different
levels. Work surfaces shall incorporate clear knee space

Figure 84. Clear space around tables

Figure 85. Clear space in kitchens

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 112

34 Accessible workplaces and commercial buildings
Parking and the approaching route to workplaces and commercial buildings
shall conform to the specifications of this Code.

Entrances, internal horizontal and vertical circulations, furniture and toilets shall
conform to the specifications of this code.

Where meeting or interview rooms are provided, the minim dimensions shall
conform to specifications in Figure 85.

Figure 86. Meeting or interview room

The image shows the minimum dimensions for a meeting or interview room

All counters, checkouts and service points shall be accessible according to the
specifications of Sections 13 and 27.

34.1 Accessible smoking areas

If outdoor smoking areas are provided, they should be served by an accessible
route and have enough space to accommodate a wheelchair user. A minimum
dimension of 2400 x 2400 is recommended.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 113

35 Shops, supermarkets, shopping malls
Shops, supermarkets and shopping malls shall follow this Code’s requirements
for being accessible to customers and staff employed in all areas.

Attention should be given to provide adequate aisles widths, headroom and

wayfinding.

Parking for customers and staff shall conform to specifications of Section 12.

Shelves and displays should allow people to see and select products at a range
of heights.

Clothes rails should be located no higher 1200mm above the finished floor.

All counters, checkouts and service points shall be accessible according to the
specifications of Sections 15.3, providing a dual-height seciton.

Figure 86 shows the minimum width for an accessible checkout lane. At least
one accessible checkout lane shall be provided in supermarkets or any other
large shop where multiple checkout lanes are provided.

Figure 87. Minimum width for a checkout lane

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 114

35.1 Accessible fitting rooms
Shops that provide changing rooms shall provide at least one accessible fitting
room for each fitting rooms cluster, with the following specifications:

a) The accessible fitting room shall have minimum dimensions of 2300 mm x

2500 mm.
b) The interior corridors in the fitting room cluster should have a minimum width
of 900 mm.
c) Shall provide a padded fold-down seat and a full-body mirror.
d) The same level of accessibility shall be provided for both genders.
e) Clothes hangers shall be located at two heights, one at a maximum height of
1700mm and one at a maximum height of 1200mm above floor level.

35.2 Lockers
20% of shelves, boxes or lockers shall be within reaching distance for a
wheelchair user or people with short stature, between 600 mm and 1200 mm
above the floor.

Lockers numbers should be well contrasted and tactile. If benches are provided,
they should be moveable.

Figure 88. Location of accessible lockers

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36 Accessible changing rooms
Sport premises or any other facility that provide changing rooms shall provide at
least one accessible changing room for each changing room cluster, with the
following specifications:

a) The accessible changing room shall have minimum dimensions of 2000 mm

x 2000 mm.
b) The interior corridors in the changing room cluster should have a minimum
width of 900 mm. In direction changes, there is a clear manoeuvring turning
space of 1500 mm diameter outside of any opening door space.
c) If there are lockers, the provisions for storage facilities shall be respected.
d) Benches shall not obstruct access to lockers or the accessible changing
room.
e) The approaching space for lockers, benches and furniture should have a
minimum width of 865 mm and should connect to the accessible path of
travel.
f) If there are showers, at least one of every ten shall meet the criteria for
accessible showers asdescribed in this Code.
g) If there are toilets,1 of every 10 shall be accessible, according to the
specifications of this Code.
h) The same level of accessibility shall be provided for both genders.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 116

37 Healthcare and welfare buildings
The following types of new buildings shall follow this Code’s requirements:

a) Hospitals
b) Health centres
c) Doctors’ and dentists’ surgeries
d) Opticians
e) Day centre,
f) Special needs centres

Parking, approach to the building, as well as internal spaces, services and

equipment common to most buildings, shall conform to the specifications of this
Code’s Sections.

38 Balconies
Terraces, verandas and balconies linked to accessible rooms or spaces shall be
accessible to all people including people with mobility limitations.

To ensure this requirement, they shall fulfil the following characteristics:

a) The door to the balcony shall provide at least an obstacle free width of 900
mm.
b) The balcony exterior and interior levels shall be the same.
c) Wherever it is possible the balcony doors shall be installed flush with the
floor level. When a raised threshold is necessary it shall have a maximum
height of 20 mm and be bevelled down to a height of 10 mm chamfered.
d) The minimum dimensions of the balcony shall be 1500 mm x 1500 mm.
e) Walking surfaces shall be slip resistant.

Figure 89. Maximum threshold rise

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39 Requirements for parks, beaches, natural spaces,
outdoors areas
Benches or places to sit in parks shall be designed according to the provision of
this Code.

Information about the nearest public accessible toilets and interest points within
the park or beach shall be installed at least in every path intersection, following
the parameters for information panels described in the Wayfinding Section of
this Code.

Public accessible toilets shall be installed near the accessible path.

Supplementary paths can be used at beaches and natural landscapes where

walking would be difficult.

A temporary path is considered accessible when it meets the following technical

requirements:

a) It has a width of 1500 mm free of obstacles.

b) Whenever the natural slope of the terrain allows it, a path’s running gradient
shall not be greater than 5% and the cross-fall gradients shall not be greater
than 2%.
c) It is constructed of material that has a heat transmission coefficient that
allows walking barefoot over them.
d) Supplementary paths shall reach as close as possible to the water’s edge.
e) There should be at least one accessible unit of each utility, such as toilets,
lounges, beach coffees and restaurants, showers, changing rooms,
furniture, emergency services among others. These utilities should be
installed as close as possible to each other and shall be connected by an
accessible path. Access to them shall also be via an accessible path from
the beach’s access and from the accessible path to the water's edge.

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39.1 Accessible beaches
In the case of lakes and sea, there shall be a rope to help users in the
accessible point of access into the water. This rope remains floating and its
length is adapted to the specific conditions of each swimming area.

Figure 90. Accessible beach layout

Figure 91. Accessible beach with access to water

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 119

39.2 Accessible outdoor kiosks
Commercial kiosks must meet the following:

a) It shall have a customer counter with a lateral or frontal interaction space.

b) Outdoors kiosks shall have a pergola in the front side.
c) This interaction space shall be linked to an accessible path.
d) It shall be equipped with a hearing enhancement system and a post
indicating such.
e) All controls shall be at a maximum height of 1200 mm.
f) All information shall be provided in audio and visual formats.
g) Visual information shall be well contrasted and in a minimum of 14 pt.

Figure 92. Accessible commercial kiosk.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 120

39.3 Swimming pools
Swimming pools and other bathing pools for public either for indoors or
outdoors use, shall have at least one accessible means of entering the water
and an accessible path linking the pool with the facilities and the common
areas.

Accessible means of entering the water are illustrated in Figures 93 and 94.
They can be either a ramp if there swimming pool is big enough to allow the
placement of a ramp with a slope according to the requirements of this Code, or
a chair lift.

For private use swimming pools like in condominiums the accessible provisions
shall be followed if a tenant requires it.

The floor surface of the swimming pool areas shall comply with the Section 6.3

If there is information messaging, the facility shall provide screens and

loudspeakers, and the information shall be provided in two alternate formats
simultaneously. The technical criteria of the messages displayed are described
in the Wayfinding Section of this Code.

If an accessible path for the entrance to the pool cannot be provided, a ramp or
an assisted elevation chair or hoist shall be implemented.

Other requirements:

a) Safety ladder
b) Underwater illumination if night use is foreseen.
c) Depth scale following the signs requirements presented in the Wayfinding
Section of this Code.
d) It should be connected to an accessible change room for each gender.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 121

 Figure 93. Access to swimming pools, option A

Figure 94. Access to swimming pools, option B

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 122

39.4 Outdoor showers
Outdoor accessible showers shall be provided at accessible beaches and
swimming pools. These shall be linked via an accessible path and interaction
space. They shall be at least 1800 mm in width and shall be provided with a
bench without arms.

Shower controls shall be a button placed between 700 mm and 1200 mm and
be possible to be activated with one hand.

Figure 95. Accessible shower layout

39.5 Picnic areas

In facilities where picnic areas are provided with tables, 10% of the tables or at
least one picnic table shall be accessible, according to the Section 29.2 Tables,
of this Code, allowing approaching by a wheelchair user.

Tables with fixed seats or benches in all their sides are not considered
accessible.

Accessible picnic tables shall be serviced by an accessible route, connecting to

entrance, parking, toilets or any other amenities provided to any user.

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40 Controls and operating mechanisms
Clear floor space of at least 900 mm by 1400 mm should be provided at
controls or operating mechanisms.

Controls and operating mechanisms include but are not limited to:

• Door handle and locks

• Levels or mixer tapes
• Activation devices, vending machines, auto-pay machines
• Window openers and locks
• Electrical sockets outlets and switches
• Security access systems.

Specifications:

a) Located adjacent to an accessible route and a clear floors space with a

minimum width of 900 mm.
b) Located at a height of between 450 mm to 1200 mm from the floor level.
c) Operable with one hand, of a type that doesn’t require tight grasping,
pinching or twisting of the wrist.
d) Operable with a force of 22N or less.

Figure 96. Height for controls and operating mechanisms

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 124

40.1 Card access
Shall be located on the latch edge of the door, either on the door face or on the
adjacent wall.

The activation control or card reader shall be positioned within 200 mm of the
door frame, at a height of between 800 mm and 1200 m from the finished floor
level.

Be colour contrasted with the background.

Include tactile graphic symbols and have both audible and visual signals to
indicate that access has been granted.

40.2 Keypads
A keypad shall:

a) Be located at a height of between 800 mm and 1200 m from the finished

floor level.
b) Be colour contrasted with the background.
c) Have characters that are colour contrasted with the keys
d) If numeric, be telephone type and have a raised dot on the number 5 that is
07 + 0.1mm high, has a base 1.5mm in diameter.
e) Have both audible and visual signals to indicate that access has been
granted.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 125

41 Pedestrian protection on construction worksxiii
Trenches and construction work in public spaces, along pedestrian routes, shall
fulfil the following conditions:

a) They shall be protected with stable, solid fencing and protection elements
that prevent people falling into the trenches or construction site.
b) All protective and warning elements shall have a detectable edge at a
maximum height of 680 mm, for people with low vision to easiliy detect them
easily.
c) Warning lights and audible signals shall be provided to alert people of the
construction site at night.
d) An alternative path in the opposite sidewalk or an alternative route shall be
considered, according to the construction site conditions.
e) Accessible routes shall not be obstructed during operations of loading,
unloading and material supply.
f) Where material and debris generated by the construction have to be stored
on the road, it shall be clearly marked and protected to ensure that it does
not constitute a danger for pedestrians or vehicles.
g) In the case of pedestrians walking over trenches protected with metal plates
that shall have a minimum width of 900 mm, provide a stable surface and be
level with the surrounding surface, with guardrails on both sides. Guardrails
must follow the requirements of this Code.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 126

 Figure 97. Accessible route on construction sites

Figure 98. Alternate accessible route

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 127

41.1 Scaffolding
Scaffolding for pedestrian protection shall comply with the following criteria:

a) The temporary or alternative path shall have a minimum width of 900 mm

and headroom of 2200 mm, free of obstacles.
b) Where there are changes in direction, the minimum clear dimensions shall
be 1500 mm x 1500 mm.
c) When the width of the sidewalk does not allow the installation of scaffolding,
an additional walking surface adjacent to the sidewalk shall be provided.
d) If the road or sidewalk does not allow the provision of scaffolding, an
alternative path shall be provided.

Figure 99. Accessible route on scaffolding installations

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 128

42 Wayfindingxiv

42.1 General
Wayfinding encompasses all the ways in which people orient themselves in
physical space and navigate from place to place. When there is a well-designed
wayfinding system, people shall be able to understand their environment. This
provides users with a sense of control and reduces anxiety, fear and stress.

The built environment should be designed, constructed and managed to

facilitate orientation. Orientation means to find one's way, to avoid obstacles
which could cause hazards, and to know when one has reached its destination.

In complex sites, visual, audible and tactile information should be provided to

assist in orientation and wayfinding.

Orientation can be facilitated by a carefully planned layout, differences in

acoustics, surface material, light and colour. Illumination, visual contrast and
tactile information shall be provided at key decision points.

It is important to provide wayfinding information in a variety of different formats

as visual, auditory, olfactory and physically. All people use different forms of
information gathering to find their way to their destination but this is especially
important for people with disabilities.

From the user perspective, the wayfinding process involves four stages:

Table 5. Wayfinding Process

Wayfinding process

1 Orientation Is the attempt to determine one’s own location in a

concrete space in relation to the chosen destination

2 Route decision Is the selection of a course of direction to the

destination

3 Route monitoring Is checking to make sure that the selected route is

heading towards to the destination.

4 Destination Is when the destination is recognized

recognition

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 129

Communicate the environment’s identity clearly and consistently through the
design of graphic elements to increase the users’ recognition and sense of
confidence in the signage system during navigation.

42.2 Signage
Visual, acoustic and tactile references shall be used to guide a person to avoid
risks and to reduce confusion.

Signs with texts and symbols, visual references, tactile information like high-
embossed characters or Braille text are the elements that shall be used.

Signage information on a sign should be kept to the minimum and organised

with hierarchy, without duplication. Complex information should be broken
down, beginning with general information and moving towards more specific
information.

The elements to be used to assist a person in the wayfinding process shall

guarantee that:

Every person, even a person with low vision, can easily identify in which part of
the city or building they are in at a concrete moment.

All buildings shall display the name of the building in the facade and a provide a
directory in the hall, listing the companies or services contained in the facility.

In buildings, orientation signs to the exit, toilet and other services shall be
present at any corridor intersection at every 30 meters.

All door frames shall provide information about the service provided in the
space.

The following general design requirements shall be considered:

e) Avoid visual clutter due to inappropriately designed or located signage and

other elements in the environment.
f) Colour coding should be used to differentiate zones or hierarchies of text
messages. Colours that create confusion in case of colour blindness should
be avoided.
g) Standardised identification signs should be adopted to organise information
in similar environments.
h) Signage should be positioned at key decision-making points on the path of
travel. It should be positioned over the accessible route at a height of at

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 130

 least 2200 mm, but in a manner that a person in a wheelchair or a child can
see it easily. Signage should be positioned to avoid shaded areas and glare.
i) Letters, numbers, symbols and pictographs should be glare-free and
presented in high reflectance contrast.
j) Illuminated signs where the text is light on a dark background shall be
avoided.
k) Printed characters shall be placed on top, centred (where there is only one
word) and aligned to the left (when there is more than one word).
l) When both Arabic and English languages are used, Arabic being the primary
language, texts shall be aligned to the right.
m) Safety and evacuation pictograms in workplaces and public places shall
follow the ISO 3864-1 international standard.
n) Braille characters will be located at the bottom left, at a minimum distance of
10 mm and a maximum of 30 mm from the left side and bottom of the sign.
Accessibility pictograms shall follow the ISO 7000 standard.
o) If signage is supplemented with Braille, it should be located at the bottom of
the sign and presented in Grade One Braille that meets the standards in
English.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 131

 Figure 100. Signage along a pedestrian path

Example of adequate location of signage along a pedestrian path

Figure 101. Location of signs in a wall, close distance reading

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 132

 Figure 102. Location of signs in a wall, far distance reading

42.3 Directional signs

Directional signs shall give information to the users how to reach their
destination. Arrows are essential for directional sign and should be used
consistently in a building or facility throughout its system of signage.

An appropriate arrow design shall have the shaft longer than the header stem.
The thickness shall be the same in all arrow lines and header lines shall have
an angle of 45 degrees.

Figure 103. Example of acceptable arrow design

Arrow placement and pointing direction is also important for clarity and legibility.
Arrows alignment in signs that includes a list of destinations depends on the
direction they point out to, indicating the arrow alignment in the sign. The
positon of arrows in relation to the location name should correspond with the
direction in which it is pointing. Therefore, when an arrow points to the left, it

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 133

should be placed to the left of the name and when an arrow points to the right, it
should be placed on the right of the name

The following table shows the hierarchy of how to place and align arrows from
the top to the bottom of a sign.

Table 6. Arrow alignment

Arrow alignment, typology and hierarchy
Arrows to be aligned on the
Hierarchy Arrows to be aligned on the left
right
Top of
the sign
Straight up

To the left, then To the right, then

ahead ahead

Ahead, then to Ahead, then to

the left the right

Go up on the left Go up on the right

Turn left Turn right

Go down on the Go down on the

left right

Bottom
of the
Go down ahead
sign

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 134

 Figure 104. Example of acceptable use of arrows on a signing

42.4 Identification signs

Identification signs are meant to identify a destination with the following
characteristics:

a) All building facades shall display the name of the building.

b) All doorframes shall present information on the service(s) available in the
space.
c) Embossed standardized pictograms and text with contrasted colour must be
used to identify the different services. Signage must be mounted at a height
between 1200 mm and 1600 mm on the left of the door.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 135

 Figure 105. Sings for building’s rooms

Example of adequate location of identification sings for building’s specific

rooms

42.5 Tactile maps

Tactile maps and models are an aid to orientation. They are particularly useful
in large buildings, such as airports, visitor attractions and shopping malls.

Tactile maps or models shall represent the internal layout of a building by

presenting a simple version of an image, in this case, a simplified version of the
architectural plant, that a person touch to get a sense of the spaces distribution.

Tactile maps characteristics are:

a) Tactile maps shall include only essential information: location of services,

accessible routes and position of key elements such as entrances,
emergency exits, information desk, main services, toilets, etc.
b) Concepts used should be easy to understand, uncluttered and enabling a
clear differentiation between lines, symbols, braille and other features.
c) Graphic plane representation (lines, surfaces) should be defined through
embossment, textures and colour contrasts.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 136

d) The signs and lettering of the map shall be represented with contrast
between fonts and background colours. The font size shall be at least 20
mm in a sans serif typeface. The information shall also be in Braille system.
e) The maximum dimensions of horizontal fixed tactile maps will be of 800 mm
x 450 mm.
f) The symbols should be clearly differentiated (form, colour and texture) and
shall be easily associated with their representation.
g) For complex layouts, buttons providing audible information shall be
provided.
h) When a tactile map is provided, it will be located within the accessible route
and its location shall be indicated with a tactile warning surface. It should be
in a well-lit area. Obstacles in front shall be avoided
i) When they are mounted in busy public places, they shall include audible
information.
j) In large buildings and open spaces for public use (e.g. parks), they shall be
located at the main entrance area, near the door, on the right side, within
1000 mm. In a building with more than one floor, it shall be located near the
stairs or the elevator.
k) When fixed to a vertical surface, it shall be centred between 1250 mm and
1750 mm above the floor. On horizontal or inclined surfaces, the height shall
be between 900 mm and 1200 mm from the floor and the inclination will be
between 30º and 45º from the horizontal level.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 137

 Figure 106. Position of angled sign

Figure 107. Position of tactile sign or map on a wall

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 138

42.6 Typeface and lettering
In public spaces, internationally recognizable symbols are preferred instead of
text. Symbols are a good option when using dual-language signs as they are
easier and faster to recognize.

All relevant information should be provided in Arabic and English. When

numerals are used, at least English numerals should be displayed.

Clarity and legibility are important. The English part of the signs should avoid
the use of highly decorative, very bold, condoned typefaces, as they are difficult
to understand.

Sans-serif fonts such as Arial, Tahoma, Verdana, Avenir and Avenir Heavy,
Helvetica, Avant Gard, Future shall be used.

The use of a particular typeface should be consistent for all signage used within
a building or facility. No more than 2 types of typefaces shall be used in a sign.

Wholly capitalised words should be avoided. Single words and short sentences
should begin with a capital letter and continue with lower case letters.

Wording should be as simple as possible and single word or short sentences

are preferred as they are easier to understand. The use of abbreviations should
be avoided.

Only long texts should be aligned to the left in Latin languages and to the right
in Arabic language. Short text can be centred.

Signs should present chromatic contrast with the surrounding environment and
between the texts or icons and the sign background.

Signs shall avoid glare.

The distance at which a person can read the sign should be taken into account
adjusting the font size according to the following table:

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 139

 Table 7. Typography size

Signs font size according to reading distance

Reading distance Minimum size Recommended size

≥50 meters 170 mm 200 mm

20 meters 140 mm 180 mm

5 meters 70 mm 140 mm

4 meters 56 mm 110 mm

3 meters 42 mm 84 mm

2 meters 28 mm 56 mm

1 meter 14 mm 28 mm

0.5 meters 7 mm 14 mm

Layout and line spacing shall fulfil the following criteria:

a) Line spacing shall be identical to the height of the lowercase letters.

b) When more than one letter size is used, the larger text height should be
referenced to determine the line spacing between different letter sizes.
c) Word spacing shall be a maximum of 0.5 times the height of the lower-case
letters.

Figure 108. Typography line spacing

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 140

42.7 High embossment
When sign with tactile information are used, letters, numbers, symbols and
pictographs should be raised at least 0.8 mm and should be between 16 mm
and 50 mm high. If a tactile sign is mounted on a wall, its centre should be at a
height between 700mm - 1200 mm from the floor level, as showed in Figure
107.

Long messages should be avoided for reading of letters and symbols in high
embossment.

It should be used for rooms or spaces identification signs. These signs

preferably represent a single icon or character; for example, the number of an
elevator floor, restrooms icon, etc.

High embossment letters shall be in upper and lower case.

The tactile signs must be in high embossment and not engraved.

Symbol height shall not be less than 30 mm. The embossment thickness will be
of between 2 mm and 5 mm for letters and of 2 mm for symbols.

Figure 109. Adequate use of high embossment and braille on a sign.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 141

42.8 Braille
42.8.1 Position

a) Signs shall be mounted out of the accessible path and must not interfere
with clear headroom along the entire path of at least 2200 mm.
b) Place signs in consistent, predictable locations. Standardise the position of
the same family of signs in the same areas of the environment.
c) Signs shall be well illuminated at all times. Lighting and sun should not
produce shadows or glare on the signs. For signs that are illuminated
externally by ambient lighting, the preferred graphics is a dark colour against
a light-coloured background.
d) Avoid the backgrounds of signs in strong visual textures or that are
reflective.
e) Obstacles between signs and the observers shall be avoided.
f) Signs in walls must be centred at a height of 1600 mm and the upper edge
to a maximum height of 1750 mm above the ground. If mainly children use a
space, a second level shall be installed, placing the second sign at a
maximum height of 1250 mm.
g) When the sign is mounted on a horizontal or inclined plane, inclination
should be of between 30º and 45º from the horizontal level.
h) Directional signs on a long route should be repeated sequentially starting
from the decision-making point/junction, with a maximum spacing of 30 m.
They serve as confirmation signs and repeater signs along the route.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 142

 Figure 110. Braille system specifications.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 143

42.9 Accessible information means
Different means of providing simultaneous information to users should be used
in a building, accommodating the preferences and characteristics of different
type of users.

The combination of means to use depends on the specific building type, final
users and type of information to be provided. Three types are commonly used
for this purpose: audio, visual and tactile.

A common example is the use of audio and visual fire alarms, as specified in
Section 43.4 of this Code, or the use of graphics and embossed symbols for
signs, as specified in Section 42.7 of this Code.

The following table present examples of valid combinations for providing

simultaneous information.

Table 8. Accessible communication combinationsxv

Combination of communication channels

Tactile references / guiding

Alphabetical writing and symbols +
tactile pavement

Alphabetical and symbolic

Alphabetical writing and symbols +
embossed writing

Alphabetical and symbolic

Alphabetical writing and symbols + + Braille
embossed writing

Alphabetical writing and symbols + Oral information

Alphabetical writing + Braille

Light signal + Simultaneous sound signal

Oral Communication + Sign language/written text

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 144

42.10 International symbol of access
The international symbol of access is intended to identify accessible features
and facility used by persons with disabilities. However, in new, universally
designed buildings, where most of the spaces and features are designed to be
used by everybody, including persons with different disabilities, the symbol of
access shall be used thoughtfully, preventing its overuse throughout any
facilities.

The symbol of access shall be used in identity signs and directional signs, to
guide users, especially where the location of any accessible element is not in
the same place as the element to be used by non-disabled users, e.g. an
accessible entrance in a retrofitted building that is not the same as the general
entrance, or an accessible route in a facility with many path of travel options.

The international symbol specifications are dictated by the standard ISO 7001,
and shall comply with the following:

a) Two elements, a symbolised figure in a wheelchair and a plain square

background.
b) The symbolized figure shall face to the right.
c) Proportions shall be in accordance with Figure 111 below.

Figure 111. international Symbol of Access

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 145

43 Emergency preparednessxvi
The procedures for evacuating a building should be posted, including
evacuation procedures for persons with activity limitations.

Fire and life safety procedures should be posted in 14 pt. san serif font.

43.1 Fire evacuation for all

To protect people with activity limitations and/or people with impaired senses in
a fire emergency, fire engineering design objectives should be developed.

The design objectives are:

a) Protect people from fire in any of the following locations, when relevant:

• In a place of safety, located a safe distance from a building, or a place of

relative safety within a building, for example, an area of rescue
assistance adjoining a vertical evacuation route;
• During independent or assisted evacuation to a place of safety or a place
of relative safety; and
• In situ when no evacuation is possible, for example, in the case of health
facilities, using small fire compartments.

b) A building with an uncontrolled fire should remain structurally stable in every

compartment or space where people remain, including:

• People waiting in areas of rescue assistance or a place of relative safety;

• People engaged in evacuation or providing assistance for assisted
evacuation; and
• People located in any space outside the building that would be
threatened by structural collapse or in any space between the building
and a place of safety.

Evacuation routes shall be available to all building users, with the following
design principles:

a) Protection and evacuation for all should be incorporated at a sufficiently

early stage in the architectural design process.
b) Vertical evacuation or evacuation to a place of safety, which will tend to be
farther away than a place of relative safety, is more stressful than horizontal
evacuation of areas as needed, particularly for people with mobility
impairments;

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 146

c) The fire engineering strategy needs to specify which occupants, based on
abilities and other characteristics, are to be evacuated to a 'place of safety'
and which to a 'place of relative safety';
d) The fire engineering strategy needs to specify, based on fire size, location,
and rate of growth, which areas are to be evacuated and when vertical
evacuation is necessary;
e) All elevators in new buildings should be capable of being used for people
evacuation in a fire situation;
f) Elevators in existing buildings, when being replaced or undergoing a major
overhaul, should be made capable of being used for people evacuation in a
fire situation

43.2 Areas of rescue assistance

Independent evacuation may not be possible for all occupants, particularly in
the case of existing buildings. For those occupants who need assisted
evacuation, there should be a strategy for the provision of assisted evacuation,
and there may need to be areas of rescue assistance.

An area of rescue assistance in a building should:

a) Be provided on every floor of a building,

b) Adjoin every evacuation staircase,
c) Include space for persons in wheelchairs,
d) Have good lighting and be clearly indicated with good signage,
e) Be fitted with an accessible and reliable independent communication system
fitted at a height of 800 mm to 1 100 mm above floor level, facilitating direct
contact with a person in the designated control room for the building,
f) Be of sufficient size for the storage of an evacuation chair and a manual fire
alarm call point, a fire evacuation supply kit containing, for example, smoke
hoods, suitable gloves to protect a person’s hands from debris when
pushing his/her manual wheelchair, etc.

43.3 Panic and emergency exit devices.

a) Release forces for panic exit devices operated by a horizontal bar for use on
escape route require an operating force no greater than 220 N.

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b) Release forces for emergency exit devices operated by a lever handle shall
be no greater than 70 N.
c) Release forces for emergency exit devices operated by a push pad shall be
no greater than 150 N

43.4 Alarms
d) Audio and visual emergency alarms shall be provided throughout the
building.
e) Visual emergency alarms should have a flashing lights frequency of between
two and four hertz. They shall be located in places where all building
occupants can see them, including toilets, accessible toilets and family
toilets. It is especially important to place visual alarms in locations where
someone might be alone.
f) Where two or more units may be viewed form a single area they should be
synchronized
g) Alarm signals louder than 120db should not be used.
h) Fire detection and alarm systems that incorporate manual activation devices
should be easy to operate and located within reach of all users.

43.5 Evacuation devices

Persons with activity limitations who are unable to evacuate independently may
be evacuated with the assistance of an evacuation device or evacuation chair.
Fire safety personnel can assist the person into the evacuation device and then
take them down the stairs to a safe area.

Evacuation devices should be provided on every floor over one storey. The
devices should be consistently located near the stairwell. Fire personnel should
ensure that the building’s users, including those with activity limitations, are
trained on how to use evacuation devices.

Evacuation chairs should be capable of:

a) Being safely and easily operated;

b) Carrying people of high weight (up to 150 kg);
c) Going up and down staircases;

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d) Compensating for any challenging features of a particular environment, such
as narrow or unusually shaped staircases or evacuation paths over rough
ground.

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44 Management and maintenancexvii
The management and maintenance issues are important for providing an
adequate accessibility level in a public building on a daily basis, for everyone.

The following is a partial list of examples of items to be considered for

maintaining an accessible environment. Depending on the type of building some
of them may apply, and specific buildings or facilities may need additional
measures.

a) Ensuring that responsibilities are defined within the organization, and

instructing periodical accessibility audits.
b) Training of staff regarding accessibility measures in the organization and
reviewing all internal policies, procedures and practices.
c) Ensuring that staff understand the management issues relating to disabled
people, including emergency procedures.
d) Keeping accessible routes, external and internal, including steps and ramps,
clean, unobstructed and free of sand, water, debris, garbage, etc.
e) Ensuring that designated accessible parking spaces are not being used by
non-disabled motorists.
f) Ensuring that wheelchair spaces are keep clear and available in seating
areas.
g) Ensuring that storage, planters, bins, etc., do not obstruct accessible routes,
toilets, elevator call buttons or accessible controls of any kind in any room.
h) Ensuring that trip hazards, such as at junctions between floor surfaces, are
removed.
i) Ensuring that, where floor sockets are provided (e.g. in meeting rooms), they
don’t constitute a trip hazard and that access to sockets is also available at
desk level.
j) Maintaining doors, door closers and building hardware, including checking
that the opening forces of self-closing doors are within acceptable limits.
k) Maintaining proper operation of access security systems.
l) Checking floor surfaces, matting, surface-mounted carpets, etc., re-fixing to
the floor where necessary, and replacing where damaged or worn.
m) Ensuring that floors cleaning and polishing does not produce a slippery
surface.

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n) Ensuring that entrances to prayer rooms provide shoes storage areas, for
providing a clear access route.
o) Maintaining proper operation of hearing enhancement systems, where
provided.
p) Maintaining sanitary rooms and accessories, including checking that toilet
seats are securely fixed, cleaning tap nozzles to ensure correct water flow,
functioning of sensor activated faucet, emptying and cleaning bins, and
keeping equipment clean.
q) Ensuring that a procedure is set up to respond to alarm calls from sanitary
rooms.
r) Ensuring that adjustable shower heads are lowered to be ready for the next
user.
s) Ensuring that emergency assistance pull cords are kept fully extended and
in working order at all times, where provided
t) Checking the mountings of all grab bars, and the mechanism of drop-down
bars, re-fixing or replacing where necessary.
u) Servicing of all types of lifts and elevators.
v) Ensuring that facilities, such as lifts, elevators, etc., are in working order
between servicing schedules, and providing alternative arrangements in
case of facilities being out of order.
w) Removing and/or changing signage as necessary, e.g. when departments
relocate.
x) Providing accurate information on facilities prior to arrival, e.g. on the
building’s or company’s website.
y) Providing audio description services.
z) Providing all relevant literature, and reviewing/revising it when necessary.
aa) Ensuring that a permanently manned position is available for the emergency
elevators telephone communications.
bb) Updating buildings maps and directories following changes.

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45 Anthropometrics, acoustics and lighting

45.1 Dimensions and turning areas

Figure 112. Floor area for manual wheelchair

Figure 113. Floor area for motor wheelchair

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 Figure 114. Turning area for manual wheelchair

Figure 115. Turning area for large scooter

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45.2 Walking and running speedxviii
Walking and running speeds are relevant when designing the green time for
pedestrians in pedestrian crossings

The table below shows average speeds for walking and running, where the X
axis represent the number of meters per second and the Y axis shows the
average speed of different type of pedestrians.

Figure 116. Average working and running speeds

45.3 Acoustics
Acoustic plays an important role in accessible design, for blocking unwanted
background noise or excessive reverberation. Good acoustic design also
provides audible clues as a wayfinding feature. For that purpose, new designs
shall:

a) Consider the careful application of sound insulation and absorbing materials

on ceilings, walls and floors for specific settings, including work
environments, entertainment, meetings rooms.
b) Acoustic performance of building materials, fabrics and furnishings shall be
assessed for choosing the best possible acoustic environments.
c) Providing appropriate sound clues along accessible routes and at
destination points, as part of the wayfinding design. This can be achieved by
combining the type of materials used in floors to provide acoustic differences
between the floor used in the accessible route and adjacent areas, placing
fountains or any other architectural element that hep differentiate between
spaces for its acoustic properties.

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Audible communication in the range of 500-2.000 Hz should be favoured in
acoustic signals, alarms and voice messages in Public Announcement Systems
and shall be considered when providing audio messages,

Figure 117. Audible frequenciesxix

Optimum reverberation time vary according to the room’s intended use. To

ensure a good acoustic design on specific rooms, when choosing materials for
interior designs, acoustic reverberation levels shall fulfil the requirements of the
following table:

Figure 118. Reverberation timesxx

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45.4 Lighting
General lighting in buildings shall be controllable, whether natural or artificial.

Windows and light fittings locations should avoid glare.

The provision of blinds, dimmer switches or computer controlled lighting

systems should be considered.

Colour temperature of artificial lighting should match that of daylight where

possible.

Lighting controls shall comply with Section 40.

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46 Table of figures
Figure 1. Unobstructed widths ...................................................................... 17

Figure 2. Grates in accessible routes ........................................................... 18

Figure 3. Clear width street furniture with grilles ........................................ 18

Figure 4. Accessible path with resting area example. ................................ 19

Figure 5. Kerb ramp with flared sides .......................................................... 23

Figure 6. Single slope kerb ramp .................................................................. 24

Figure 7. Kerb ramp in kerb extensions ....................................................... 25

Figure 8. Lowered sidewalks to road level ................................................... 26

Figure 9. Elevated sidewalk ........................................................................... 27

Figure 10. Intermediate island for different green light cycles................... 29

Figure 11. Intermediate island ....................................................................... 29

Figure 12. Barriers in garage entryways ...................................................... 31

Figure 13. Accessible garage access ........................................................... 32

Figure 14. Accessible garage access ........................................................... 32

Figure 15. Pick-up area with kerb ramp........................................................ 33

Figure 16. Pick-up area with no level difference.......................................... 33

Figure 17. Accessible angled parking spaces specifications .................... 35

Figure 18. Accessible perpendicular spaces specifications ...................... 36

Figure 19. Accessible parallel parking place along the sidewalk .............. 37

Figure 20. Accessible parking sign .............................................................. 37

Figure 21. Example of accessible route ....................................................... 39

Figure 22. Example of accessible security barriers .................................... 39

Figure 23. Clear accessible area on seating spaces ................................... 41

Figure 24. Protruding objects........................................................................ 44

Figure 25. Revolving doors shall have an alternative accessible door ..... 45

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 157

Figure 26. Height of door handle .................................................................. 47

Figure 27. Door Hardware .............................................................................. 47

Figure 28. Clear spaces for one push side swinging doors ....................... 48

Figure 29. Door clear spaces ........................................................................ 49

Figure 30. Door clear spaces ........................................................................ 49

Figure 31. Angled doors in a series .............................................................. 50

Figure 32. Marks on glass doors or surfaces .............................................. 52

Figure 33. Use of glass marks on a building entrance................................ 52

Figure 34. Window height with fixed glass .................................................. 53

Figure 35. Use of railing and grab bars ........................................................ 55

Figure 36. Handrails profile ........................................................................... 55

Figure 37. Handrails’ gripping area .............................................................. 56

Figure 38. Handrail’s distance to wall .......................................................... 56

Figure 39. Railing and grab bars in ramps. .................................................. 57

Figure 40. Tactile information on handrails ................................................. 57

Figure 41. Detectable warning surface specifications ................................ 60

Figure 42. Tactile guiding surface specifications........................................ 61

Figure 43. Example of tactile surfaces use .................................................. 62

Figure 44. Example of tactile surfaces use .................................................. 63

Figure 45. Elevator specifications ................................................................ 66

Figure 46. Elevator buttons layout................................................................ 67

Figure 47. Specifications for non-enclosed platforms ................................ 68

Figure 48. Colour contrast specifications for ramps .................................. 71

Figure 49. Location of warning surfaces in ramp’s landings ..................... 71

Figure 50. Ramp specifications..................................................................... 72

Figure 51. Combined use of ramps and stairs ............................................. 73

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Figure 52. Ramps’ handrails specifications. ................................................ 73

Figure 53. Intersection of ramp and corridor ............................................... 74

Figure 54. Clear space between ramp and doors ........................................ 74

Figure 55. No open risers are allowed .......................................................... 75

Figure 56. Steps specifications ..................................................................... 76

Figure 57. Stairs single flight specifications ............................................... 77

Figure 58. Stairs, multiple flights specifications ......................................... 78

Figure 59. Clear space below stairs.............................................................. 79

Figure 60. Accessible urinals ........................................................................ 81

Figure 61. Toilet seat specifications ............................................................. 82

Figure 62. Type A individual toilet. ............................................................... 84

Figure 63. Type B individual toilet ................................................................ 85

Figure 64. Accessible washbasin. ................................................................ 86

Figure 65. Height of controls and accessories in toilets ............................ 87

Figure 66. Toilet room’s door ........................................................................ 88

Figure 67. Accessible shower seat ............................................................... 90

Figure 68. Accessible family toilet. ............................................................... 92

Figure 69. Feeding room option A ................................................................ 93

Figure 70. Feeding room option A, elevation. .............................................. 94

Figure 71. Feeding room option B ................................................................ 94

Figure 72. Accessible ablution space layout ............................................... 96

Figure 73. Accessible washbasin for ablution areas .................................. 96

Figure 74. Accessible chair with clear space .............................................. 97

Figure 75. Accessible bench with clear space ............................................ 98

Figure 76. Accessible table or desk.............................................................. 98

Figure 77. Accessible drinking fountain. ..................................................... 99

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Figure 78. Accessible vending /auto-pay machine.................................... 101

Figure 79. Auditorium and theatre accessible seating layout .................. 105

Figure 80. Accessible hotel rooms ............................................................. 108

Figure 81. Accessible bathroom with bathtub ........................................... 109

Figure 82. Accessible shower, transfer space in both sides .................... 109

Figure 83. Accessible shower, transfer space in one sides ..................... 110

Figure 84. Clear space around tables ......................................................... 112

Figure 85. Clear space in kitchens.............................................................. 112

Figure 86. Meeting or interview room ......................................................... 113

Figure 87. Minimum width for a checkout lane .......................................... 114

Figure 88. Location of accessible lockers ................................................. 115

Figure 89. Maximum threshold rise ............................................................ 117

Figure 90. Accessible beach layout ............................................................ 119

Figure 91. Accessible beach with access to water.................................... 119

Figure 92. Accessible commercial kiosk. ................................................... 120

Figure 93. Access to swimming pools, option A ....................................... 122

Figure 94. Access to swimming pools, option B ....................................... 122

Figure 95. Accessible shower layout.......................................................... 123

Figure 96. Height for controls and operating mechanisms ...................... 124

Figure 97. Accessible route on construction sites.................................... 127

Figure 98. Alternate accessible route ......................................................... 127

Figure 99. Accessible route on scaffolding installations ......................... 128

Figure 100. Signage along a pedestrian path ............................................ 132

Figure 101. Location of signs in a wall, close distance reading .............. 132

Figure 102. Location of signs in a wall, far distance reading ................... 133

Figure 103. Example of acceptable arrow design...................................... 133

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Figure 104. Example of acceptable use of arrows on a signing............... 135

Figure 105. Sings for building’s rooms ...................................................... 136

Figure 106. Position of angled sign ............................................................ 138

Figure 107. Position of tactile sign or map on a wall ................................ 138

Figure 108. Typography line spacing ......................................................... 140

Figure 109. Adequate use of high embossment and braille on a sign. ... 141

Figure 110. Braille system specifications. ................................................. 143

Figure 111. international Symbol of Access .............................................. 145

Figure 112. Floor area for manual wheelchair ........................................... 152

Figure 113. Floor area for motor wheelchair .............................................. 152

Figure 114. Turning area for manual wheelchair ....................................... 153

Figure 115. Turning area for large scooter ................................................ 153

Figure 116. Average working and running speeds.................................... 154

Figure 117. Audible frequencies ................................................................. 155

Figure 118. Reverberation times ................................................................. 155

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47 Bibliography
• ADA Standards for Accessible Design. USA
• Australian Government/Ausaid. Accessibility Design Guide: Universal
design principles for Australia’s aid program
• British Standard 8300, Design of buildings and their approaches to meet
the needs of disabled people – Code of practice.
• Canadian Standards Association, B651, Accessible design for the built
environment.
• Dubai Universal Design Code. UAE
• International Standards Organization. ISO 21542, Building construction-
Accessibility and usability of the built environment.
• Kuwait’s Persons with Disabilities’ Code.
• Kuwait’s Public Authority of the Disabled Strategic Plan.
• Kuwait’s Strategy for Implementing Universal Code for Disabled.
• Mexico City Government/SEDUVI. Manual de Normas Técnicas de
Accesibilidad 2016.
• National Disability Authority, et al. Building for Everyone: A Universal
Design Approach. Ireland.
• Organización Nacional de Ciegos de España. Accesibilidad para
personas con ceguera y deficiencia visual. Spain
• The Code on Accessibility in the Built environment – Singapore.
• Universal Accessibility – Built Environment Guidelines for the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia.
• Wayfinding Singapore Standard SS 599-2014.

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 162

48 Notes
i Specifications according to The Dubai Universal Design Code
ii According to specifications of the ISO Standard 21542
iii Specifications and figures adapted from the Dubai Universal Design Code
iv The specifications for this section has been adapted from the ISO Standard

21542 and the Dubai Universal Design Code. Illustrations and tactile pavement
measurements are according to the Dubai Universal Design Code.
v According to The Dubai Universal Design Code
vi Adapted from UK’s BS8300 and the Mexico City/Seduvi Accessibility

Guidelines
vii According to ISO Standard 21542
viii The specifications for this section have been adapted from several codes and

the figures have been adapted to match The Dubai Universal Design Code.
ix The figures in this section has been adapted from The Dubai Universal Design

Code.
x Adapted from the Dubai Universal Design Code.
xi Specifications and figures adapted from the Built Environment Guidelines for

the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Dubai Universal Design Code.
xii Specifications adapted from the Built Environment Guidelines for the Kingdom

of Saudi Arabia and the Dubai Universal Design Code.

xiii Adapted from the Dubai Universal Design Code.
xiv This section has been developed according to specifications from the

following standards and guidelines: ISO Standard 21542, Singapore Standard

SS 599-2014 and the Dubai Universal Design Code
xv According to The Dubai Universal Design Code
xvi This section has been developed according to specifications from the

following standards and guidelines: ISO Standard 21542, Building for Everyone:
A Universal Design Approach; The Dubai Universal Design Code
xvii This section has been adapted from the ISO Standard 21542, the Irish

Universal Design Booklets

xviii According to specifications from the Dubai Universal Design Code
xix Ibidem
xx Ibidem

Kuwait Universal Design Code developed by:

Taghreed Zuhair Al-Zubaidi
Andres Balcazar de la Cruz

Drawings by:
Meeza Lapac

Cover image credit: Istock/Katerina Andronchik

Kuwait Universal Design Code / October 2017 163