Door Opening Requirements
Opening a door can be genuinely difficult for someone with a hand or arm impairment, whether that's the force required or the shape of the handle itself.
The BCA covers this at D3.3(c) via AS 1428.1, which sets out location, dimensioning, operating force and design criteria for door hardware.
Getting it right
D-shaped lever handles work far better than round knobs or L-shaped handles for anyone with limited grip or dexterity. Door opening and closing forces need to stay within the AS 1428.1 limits, handle height and jamb clearance need to be right, and colour contrast between the handle and the door helps everyone find it faster. For heavy doors, an automatic opener is often the more practical fix than trying to reduce closer force to a compliant level.