The introduction of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations in 1995 provided the regulatory impetus for designers to give due attention to the whole-life aspects of facilities. With the advent of the Private Finance Initiative and public-private partnership-style undertakings, attention is increasingly being focused on the efficient lifetime care of buildings. The book provides best practice guidance aimed specifically at designing for safe access for maintenance and repair. Rigorous attention to access provision will not only reduce accidents and ill health, but will also promote efficient and hence cost-effective processes. The guide gives an overview of the commercial and regulatory backdrop, statutory obligations and alternative procurement processes. This is followed by targeted design guidance for a variety of building elements and work situations. This guidance is intended primarily for building designers, but will also be of interest to clients, planning supervisors and facilities managers. Design input can occur at any point in the supply chain and the definition of "designer" encompasses anyone involved in design, irrespective of their role.