NCC Performance Solution: Single-Sided Handrails for Safe, Inclusive Shop Entry – Case Study from RALPH Alexandria
At Sydney Access Consultants, we specialise in finding practical ways to meet the National Construction Code (NCC) and Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings) Standards while removing barriers for people with disability. Our goal is always sensible solutions that make buildings easier and safer for everyone—not just those with disability, but pram users, delivery teams, elderly visitors, and anyone navigating changes in level.
We recently provided expert advice on a Performance Solution for a retail shop tenancy in the premium RALPH Alexandria mixed-use development at 45-47 Ralph Street, Alexandria NSW. Developed by Lateral Estate Pty Ltd and designed by award-winning architects Smith & Tzannes, RALPH features 112 luxury apartments plus ground-floor retail spaces, with completion targeted for early 2026.
The Challenge: Flood Protection Creates a Short Two-Step Descent
Ralph Street in Alexandria is prone to periodic flooding. To protect the shop tenancy, the internal floor level (including the entry mat well) was raised two steps above the street pavement. This creates a low-rise descent of just two steps at the primary street entry—total rise around 300 mm assuming standard riser heights.
Under the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions of NCC 2022 (as amended) and AS 1428.1:2021:
- Stairs (two or more risers) require handrails on both sides (Clause 11.2(b) and Clause 12).
- Full bilateral handrails would encircle the narrow mat well, potentially restricting flow, cleaning, or aesthetics in a high-end retail space.
A fully compliant accessible ramp (with gradients, landings, and handrails on both sides per AS 1428.1) is provided at a secondary entrance to the same tenancy. The primary steps serve as a short, convenient secondary path for able-bodied users.
Our Performance Solution: Complying Handrails on One Side Only
We developed and documented a Performance Solution under DP4 (Access for people with a disability) of NCC Volume One. This satisfies the Performance Requirement: buildings must provide safe access and use for people with disability to the degree necessary.
Key features of the approved solution:
- Complying handrails (865–1000 mm height, 30–52 mm diameter, continuous with extensions, ≥50 mm clearance) installed to the southern side only.
- Northern, eastern, and western sides of the mat well remain open—no handrails.
- Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI – warning type) provided all around the steps (top and bottom per AS 1428.1 Clause 10) for reliable advance warning and edge detection.
- Step nosings with slip-resistant finish (P4 or better wet pendulum classification) and ≥30% luminance contrast to tread and riser.
- Lighting levels ≥200 lux at the steps.
Why This Works: Equivalent Safety Through Smart Design
The narrow mat well width (typically 1.5–2 m clear) means a person needing handrail support can easily reach and grip the southern handrail from either side of their body—within about 1 m across their stride or body position. This provides equivalent stability and confidence for the very short descent/ascent, compared to full bilateral handrails on such a low-rise change in level.
The full TGSI surround, high-contrast nosings, and good lighting further reduce mis-step risk and support people with low vision. The alternative ramp entrance offers a zero-step, fully supported option for wheelchair users, scooter riders, or anyone preferring no steps.
In our expert judgement (as accredited members of the Association of Access Consultants Australia), this delivers equivalent or better safety and independence than strict DTS compliance. Risk of falls or disorientation is not increased—it's managed through enhanced tactile and visual cues.
Broader Benefits: Universal Design in Action
This solution removes unnecessary barriers while making the entry more practical for all users:
- Easier for pram pushers or delivery trolleys to navigate the short steps without rails blocking the full width.
- Cleaner lines and better flow in a premium retail space.
- Inclusive choice: steps for quick access, ramp for full support.
We followed the ABCB Performance Solution Process Handbook (2024 update), starting with a Performance-Based Design Brief agreed by stakeholders—including Lateral Estate, Principal Certifier Ian Pickering of Advance Building Approvals Pty Ltd, and the project architect.
How We Can Help Your Project
Performance Solutions like this are common in retail fit-outs, heritage-sensitive sites, or flood-prone areas. They allow sensible, cost-effective compliance without compromising design or usability.
If you're a developer, architect, certifier, or business owner facing similar access challenges—whether handrails, ramps, TGSI, toilets, or signage—contact Sydney Access Consultants today. We're experts in NCC 2022, AS 1428 series, DDA Premises Standards, and practical universal design.
Phone: (02) 9586 3111 or 0414 414 101 Email:
Let us help you create buildings that work better for everyone.
Gary Finn – Accredited Access Consultant #435, Principal Design Practitioner #PDP0000496