Equal access for all is not just a matter of social responsibility, but also a legal mandate, secured by specific provisions of Greek law. Compliance with accessibility legislation for People with Disabilities (PwD) and persons with reduced mobility in buildings and spaces is now mandatory, with clear specifications defining the creation of barrier-free environments.

At Bibikas Special, we don’t just offer products; we provide comprehensive solutions and expertise to ensure your space is fully accessible and compliant with current legislation, helping you avoid fines while ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone.

The Legislative Framework: Know Your Obligations

Greek legislation provides specific accessibility requirements for both new and existing buildings. Key provisions include:

• Law 4067/2012 (New Building Regulation – NOK), Article 26: Sets the general accessibility requirements for new buildings and major renovations (as well as additions to existing ones), making the unobstructed movement of PwDs mandatory in all common areas.
• Ministerial Decision (M.D.) 52478/2006 (Government Gazette 18/B/2007) – “Special arrangements for the service of PwD in existing buildings”: This Ministerial Decision is critical for existing facilities, as it defines the specific interventions required to serve PwDs, aiming for “universal access.”

Which spaces are covered by M.D. 52478/2006 (GG 18/B/2007)?

This specific Ministerial Decision focuses on the functional space design specifications for serving PwDs in existing buildings housing:

• Public Services
• Legal Entities under Public Law (N.P.D.D.)
• Legal Entities under Private Law (N.P.I.D.) of the broader public sector
• Local Government Organizations (O.T.A.) of the 1st and 2nd degree
• Public Benefit Organizations
• Banks and currency exchange offices
• Buildings for public use (such as museums, theaters, cinemas, sports facilities, etc., depending on the interpretation and clarifying circulars issued)

It is noted that, beyond this specific Ministerial Decision, general legislation (such as the NOK for new buildings and major renovations) as well as other specific provisions and regulations, extend accessibility requirements to a wider range of private businesses and public gathering spaces.

Basic Requirements and Technical Specifications (Indicative)

To achieve accessibility, the law defines specific standards for the following:

• Horizontal Access:
  • Corridors: Must have a minimum clear width.
  • Doors: The clear opening must be sufficient for a wheelchair to pass through (usually > 0.85 m).
• Vertical Access: Ensuring movement between different levels is often the greatest challenge. Solutions include:
  • PwD Ramps:
    • Maximum Gradient: Generally, should not exceed 5% (or 8% in exceptional cases for small height differences).
    • Width: Minimum width for single passage > 0.90 m, for double passage > 1.80 m.
    • Landings: Essential at specific points for resting and turning.
  • Platform Lifts & PwD Hoists:
    • Cabin/Platform Dimensions: The minimum PwD lift dimensions are defined to accommodate a wheelchair (e.g., 1.00 m x 1.25 m for unobstructed movement, though smaller dimensions exist for specific types).
    • Standards: Lifts must comply with European standards such as EN 81-40 (for stairlifts) and EN 81-41 (for platform lifts).
    • Safety: Equipment featuring safety sensors, emergency buttons, and backup power systems.

Bibikas Special: Your Partner for Full Compliance

At Bibikas Special, we have the experience and expertise to guide you step-by-step through the compliance process with current accessibility legislation. We offer a wide range of certified solutions, such as:

• Platform Lifts and PwD Hoists: Ideal for covering vertical access in public and private spaces.
• PwD Ramps: A full range of ramps (fixed, portable, folding, vehicle ramps) that meet the strictest specifications.
• Stairlifts (Chairlifts): When legislation allows solutions for the independence of individuals who use a wheelchair on a limited basis or simply face difficulty with stairs.

Our team of experts undertakes the onsite inspection of your space, the preparation of a customized study based on current legislation, the procurement and professional installation of the systems, as well as technical support. We ensure that your space will not only meet legal requirements but will also be truly welcoming and functional for all.

Don’t wait! Contact Bibikas Special today for a free consultation and let us help you make your space an example of accessibility and respect, in accordance with the highest standards.