Light switches and power points: what AS 1428.1 requires for disability access in NSW

Light switches and general purpose outlets are small items that fail occupation-certificate inspections when they sit outside the reach range or in the wrong location relative to the accessible path. This page is the checklist for switches and power points under AS 1428.1:2021 as called up by NCC 2022 Amendment 2 in New South Wales. NSW stays on that edition until 1 May 2027. The Premises Standards reference AS 1428.1:2021 from 29 July 2025.

Light switches and power points in one paragraph

Where a light switch or power point forms part of an accessible path or is required to be usable by people with a disability, AS 1428.1 sets the height range, the reach zone and the clear space in front of the control. Switches are typically required in a height band that a seated person can operate. Power points follow related reach rules and must not be blocked by furniture or door swings. The access report status-codes the locations shown on the drawings or measured on site. Where a switch cannot be placed in the deemed-to-satisfy location, the route is a Performance Solution.

Where AS 1428.1 applies

The Standard applies to switches and outlets that are required to be accessible under the Premises Standards and the NCC Part D4 provisions. In practice this includes switches and power points in accessible sanitary facilities, on continuous accessible paths, in common areas of Class 2, 3 and 9 buildings, and in accessible sole-occupancy units. Private areas of Class 1 dwellings are generally outside the Premises Standards scope unless a planning instrument or consent condition brings them in. Confirm the scope on each project.

Height and reach rules

AS 1428.1 sets a height range for operable controls so that a person in a wheelchair can reach them. The commonly cited band for light switches is 900 mm to 1100 mm above finished floor, with a preferred height near the middle of that range. Power points are subject to related reach requirements and must be located so that the plug can be inserted without excessive reach or obstruction. Exact figures and figures in the Standard must be verified before detailing. No invented heights appear in the access report.

Clear floor space in front of the control is also required so a wheelchair user can approach and operate it. Door swings, furniture and protruding objects must not reduce that space.

Common failures

Switch placed above 1100 mm or below 900 mm so it falls outside the reach range.
Power point behind a door swing or under a fixed bench where approach is blocked.
Switch located on the wrong side of a doorway relative to the accessible approach.
Multiple switches stacked so the top or bottom control is outside the range.
Outlet in an accessible sanitary facility that is obstructed by the basin or grabrail.

What the access report status-codes

Each switch and power point location on the accessible path is status-coded: compliant, capable of compliance, non-compliant, insufficient information, or Performance Solution. Dimensions are taken from the drawings or measured on site. Where the DtS location cannot be achieved (heritage fabric, structural constraint, or existing services), document a Performance Solution. See Performance Solutions.

Frequently asked questions

What height should a light switch be for disability access?

AS 1428.1 sets a height range for operable controls. The commonly cited band is 900 mm to 1100 mm above finished floor. Verify the current clause and any preferred height in the Standard before detailing.

Do power points have the same rules?

Power points are subject to related reach and approach requirements. They must be usable from the accessible path and not obstructed. Confirm the exact requirements in AS 1428.1 for the location.

Do these rules apply in every room?

They apply where the Premises Standards and NCC require the control to be accessible. Private Class 1 areas are generally outside scope unless a planning instrument brings them in.

What if the switch cannot go where the Standard requires?

Document a Performance Solution with evidence that the Performance Requirement is met. Do not claim compliance where the location fails the deemed-to-satisfy criteria.

Call (02) 9586 3111 for a design audit or access report.