The Ministry for Communities, Territories, and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine has approved an order amending the state building codes for healthcare facilities. This amendment incorporates the proposal from the public union “The League of the Strong”, addressing the size of dental clinics and the needs of people with reduced mobility. This was reported by Daria Sydorenko, executive director of the League of the Strong.
“The previous version of the state building codes defined the recommended parameters for the width and length of dental offices. However, the geometric parameters alone do not guarantee accessibility for people with disabilities. That is why it was important for us to initiate amendments that would ensure barrier-free access to dental services,” emphasized Daria Sydorenko, Executive Director of the League of the Strong.
At the initiative of the League of the Strong, a new section, “10a Dental Premises,” was added to the state building codes. This section includes a paragraph stipulating that the depth and width of the dental office, as well as the area for one dental chair, should ensure the possibility of entering and maneuvering for people in wheelchairs. It should also be designed for comfortable access to the dental chair from both sides.
Additionally, the standard contains recommended parameters for dental offices in new constructions and reconstructions. These changes will come into force on October 01, 2024. The full text of the amendments can be found on the portal of the Unified State Electronic System in the Field of Construction.