access audit report of circuit house,...

By:

'Svayam'- Global Centre for Inclusive

Environment

Jindal Centre, 12, Bhikaiji Cama Place

New Delhi-110066

[email protected]

www.svayam.com

Access Audit Report

of

Circuit House, Jaipur

under

Accessible India CampaignMinistry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

, Govt. of India

1

Building Summary

Circuit House , Jaipur

Building Type: Office building

Building Use: Staying facility for

senior government

representatives

Date of Audit: 19 May, 2016

Audit Team Members :-Er. Naveen Kumar Ar. Harshita

Vashishth, Anil kumar, Shubhas Sharma

Methodology:

Audit conducted on the basis of:

• Checklist issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and

Empowerment.

• Measurement done on the site, based on the existing

situation of the building.

• Pictures and videos made on the site as per the existing

situation of the building.

• Notes prepared on the basis of the problems faced by the

user group on site.

• “Handbook on Barrier Free and Accessibility”2

Preface

The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities that came into

force on 3rd May 2008 after its ratification by 20th nation (India being one of

the first few signatories), National Policy on Disability- 2006 and The Persons

with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights & Full

Participation) Act 1995 all mandate an enabling and barrier free environment

for persons with disabilities.

Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social

Justice & Empowerment has launched ‘Accessible India Campaign’ (Sugamya

Bharat Abhiyan ), as a nation wide flagship campaign for achieving universal

accessibility for persons with disabilities.

In line with the above Action Plan, Dept. of Empowerment of PwD, has

engaged ‘Svayam’ as an Expert Agency to conduct Access Audits of 340 major

Government Buildings in identified 8 Cities across nation and suggest cost

effective solutions to make them accessible to persons with disabilities.

This Access Audit Report documents the observations of the auditors on the

existing level of accessibility at the site and suggests cost effective solutions

to make it more accessible, and welcoming to all, irrespective of their age or

abilities. The suggestions/recommendations have been indicated by a tick

mark.

May 2016

New Delhi Team Svayam

3

Building Summary

Building Overview:

Evaluation criteria is based on evaluating each element as per

the rating recommendation in “Annexure II”

Evaluati

on Rank

Evaluation Criteria Symbols Priority for

creating

access

1. Hazardous,

Inaccessible and

Unsatisfactory

Highest

2. Inaccessible and

unsatisfactory

High

3. Unsatisfactory but

acceptable

Moderat

e

4. Accessible and

Acceptable - Access

Code

Compliant

Low

5. Accepted as a Best

Practice in Accessibility

Lowest

4

Building Summary

Building Overview:

PHYSICAL ACCESSIBILITY SYMBOLS PRIORITY

FOR

CREATING

ACCESS

1. PARKING HIGH

2. ALIGHTING LOW

3. ACCESSIBLE ROUTE LOW

4. ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCE MODERATE

5. RECEPTION & LOBBY HIGHEST

6. STAIRS MODERATE

7. RAMP HIGHEST

8. HANDRAIL MODERATE

9. LIFT MODERATE

10. CORRIDORS MODERATE

11. DOORS & DOORWAYS MODERATE

12. ACCESSIBLE TOILET HIGHEST

13. CAFETERIA HIGHEST

14. DRINKING WATER

FACILITY

HIGH

15. SIGNAGE HIGH

16. EMERGENCY

EVACUATION

HIGHEST5

Contents

S. No. Subject

1. Preface

2. Approach and Main Gate

3. Parking

4. Entrance to the Building

5. Reception

6. Staircase

7. Lifts

8. Ramp

9. Corridors

10. Doors & Room

11. Cafeteria

12. Toilets

13. Drinking Water

14. Emergency/ Disaster Preparedness

15. Information & Communication

16. Evaluation of the service

17. Standards I (Design Guidelines for Tactile Paving)

18. Standards II (Signage specifications)

19. Standards III (Accessible parking specifications)

20. Standards IV (Accessible lift specifications)

21. Standards V (Ramp & Handrail specifications)

22. Standards VI (Staircase specifications)

23. Standards VII (Accessible toilet specifications)

24. Standards VIII (Kerb Ramp specifications)6

External Environment

Approach & Main Gate

• The building is easily approachable as it is located on the main road.

• There are uneven surface on the main gate .

• There are provided sheeter channel in main gate.

• The main entrance is wide, leveled and barrier free.

• Signage in Braille is missing to aid visually impaired.

• There is no tactile orientation for visually impaired visitors.

• The signage is prominent from the approach road to indicate the building.

• The existing signage is in Hindi & English which is a good practice, however, fonts are small and doesn’t follow a uniform pattern.

• There is no route map/lay out plan of the building.

Observations:

7



Observations:

Uneven surface

8



Suggestions:

� Ensure periodic maintenance of approach ways.

� The flooring requires maintenance & beveling of the uneven

surface.

� Provide Tactile pathways for persons with vision impairment

from entrance leading to the main building gates .

� Tactile should be provided at main gate.

� Smooth surface should be provided9


Parking

Observations:

• Parking space available for two wheeler and

four wheeler vehicle parking.

• There is a no shelter parking.

• There is no reserved parking for disabled

person .

• Cars have been parked in the pathway due to

lack of dedicated car parking facility.

• Signage indicating parking facility is missing.

• No parking signage available.10

Observations:


Parking

• No parking signage available. 11


Parking

Suggestions:

� Consider creating earmarked parking spaces (both for

cars and two wheelers) for persons with disabilities

with proper signage and aisle space.

� The signage of accessible parking should be displayed

at the entry point itself and also at the site of

earmarked spaces at a height of 2100 mm so as not to

get obstructed by the parked vehicle.

� Ensure leveling and periodic maintenance of parking

lot.

� For parking specifications, standers .

Signage indicating Accessible Parking

Fig. Sample drawing for single car parking

12

Suggestions:


Parking

• Parking signage should be provided.

• Reserve parking space for wheelchair user should be

made.

Two wheeler

parking

Parking

13

Internal Environment

Entrance

Observations:

• Entrance to the building has been not accessible for

wheelchair.

• There are one steps at the entrance, however, there is

no marking on the edge of the steps for the benefit of

people with visual impairments.

• Both side openable main door depth size 1600mm,

handle height 1050mm.

• There are no tactile paving at the beginning for the

benefit of visually impaired visitors.

• Tactile warning blocks in the beginning and towards the

end of the staircase are missing.

• No tactile and signage at main entrance. 14


Entrance

Suggestions:

� Consider installing proper signage “Accessible Route” to

indicate the accessible ramp. For details on signage.

� Highlight locations of ramp on tactile maps at the main

entrance.

� Tactile warning blocks should be placed 400 mm before

the beginning and end of each ramp to indicate the

level change to visually impaired persons.

� It is suggested that walking area in front of the ramp

run be kept free of parking by ensuring that vehicles

are parked in the area earmarked for parking facility.

� Wherever there are steps provide a 50mm colour

contrast on the tread edge help people with visual

disabilities & elderly even in dim light conditions.

� Consider tactile warning blocks at 300mm before the

beginning and at the end of every flight of stairs.Entrance

15


Entrance

Entrance

Suggestions:

• Signage and tactile at main entrance should be

provided.

16


Reception

Observations:

• It’s a covered reception area with separate

reception desk.

• The height of the reception counter is 1100

mm which is not accessible for wheelchair

users

• No signage for reception .

• Sheeting facility available for visitor.

• The signage is inadequate and with no braille

markings.

• There is no induction loop available at the

reception counter for hearing impaired

visitors.

• There are not audio system at reception.

17


Reception

Observations:

• No signage for reception and sheeting area.

• Reception counter height is 1100mm not

accessible for wheelchair user. 18


Reception

Suggestions:

Reception

� Reception signage should be provided.

� Reception counter height is 750 to900mm should be

provided for wheelchair user.

19


ReceptionSuggestions:

� The reception counter should have a clear

knee space of 350mm.

� Ensure display of proper signage with Braille

to assist people with vision impairments. For

signage specifications.

� For specifications of accessible reception

counters.

20

Internal Environment Staircase

• There are flight of 11 stairs with a landing with 170 mm riser and 300,width 970mm tread which is a good practice.

• There are two stairs in building.

• Handrail exists only on one side in stair A doesn’t continue on landing

• Handrail exists on both side in stair B continue on handrails height 800mm.

• There is no edge marking on the tread for the benefit of visually impaired visitors.

• There are no tactile warning blocks to guide the visitors with visual impairments.

• Signage indicating staircase is inadequate and is not legible.

• The floor surface is non-slippery & the under-stair area has been cordoned off to avoid accidents, which is a good practice.

Observations:

21

Observations:

Internal Environment Staircase

Stairs A

Stairs B

• No handrail at stair A and no colour contrast. 22


Staircase

Suggestions:

� It is advisable to have handrails on both sides and at two levels i.e. 700mm and 900mm so as to cater to children or persons of short stature as well as adults. Ref annexure V on handrails.

� The handrails of 35-45 mm diameter is preferred and should have minimum clearance of 40-50 mm from the wall.

� Handrails should extend horizontally between 300mm and 450 mm before and after the stairs/ramp run, except in places where extensions could obstruct the pedestrian flow.

� Consider colour contrast strips of 50 mm bordering the edge of the tread as shown in the drawing. Refer Annexure VI.

� Tactile warning blocks of 300 mm size should be placed at the beginning and at the end of the stairs which should continue on landings so as to caution the guests with visual impairment about the presence of stairs. Refer Annexure VII.

� The stairs surface be made slip resistant.

� A minimum of 100 lux illumination should be ensured on staircases, in absence of natural illumination.

Contrasting edge marking

helps visually impaired users to

identify the steps and use them

safely.

23


Staircase

� Handrail both side Should be provided, tactile and colour

contrast also.

Stairs A

Stairs B

Suggestions:

24


Lifts

Observations:

• There are three lifts connecting all floors

in the building.

• Door width is 800 mm making it accessible

for wheelchair users.

• There are provided three side handrails

and no available mirror.

• There are no tactile warning strips at the

top and bottom end of the lift and

passenger conveyers.

• There is a visual display facility for the

benefit of hearing impaired visitors.

• Audio announcement is present for

visually impaired.

• The control panel height 1000mm.

25


LiftsObservations:

• No signage and no

tactile .

26


Lifts

Suggestions:

� Lifts designated for use by people with

disabilities should be marked with proper

signage and directional signs be provided from

all other entrances of the building to the

accessible lift.

� The lift door should have a clear opening of not

less than 900 mm.

Lift

� Should be provided signage and tactile. 27


Cafeteria

Observations:

• The cafeteria has step free access making it accessible for

people with reduced mobility.

• There is signage available for cafeteria.

• The floor is slip-resistant with adequate circulation space.

• The height of the service counter 770mm .

• The hand wash facility available.

• There are table height 750mm,depth 780mm.

28


Cafeteria

Observations:

• No proper signage and

tactile.

29

Suggestions:

� Consider installing directional signage to

guide people towards the canteen.

� Signage in Braille is required to aid visually

impaired.

Specifications accessible hand

wash facility


Cafeteria

30


Corridors

• The corridors were wide enough and

provided wheelchair maneuvering facility.

• There no seating facility provided in the

corridor.

• There were no protruding objects or barriers

in the corridor, which is a good practice.

• The floor surface is slip resistant and non-

reflective.

• There was a colour contrast between the

floor, wall, doors and the ceiling.

Observations:

31

Observations:


Corridors

• No direction

signage and tactile.

32

�Corridors should be provided with seating

facility for visitors.

�Consider installing sufficient and uniformly

distributed lighting in the corridors.

�It is suggested that walking area in the corridor

should be kept free of any encroachments by

ensuring proper storage of the unused material.


Corridors

Suggestions:

Exit

� Handrails, Proper signage and tactile should be

provided.

33

INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT

Doors & Room

Observations:• The door width is 920mm which is accessible for wheel

chair users to enter the room.• Proper signage at door.• Door handle is at 1000mm.• There is no proper tactile guidance till the rooms.• The switch height inside the room is 1350mm which is

not accessible as required height is 800mm-1050mm.

Suggestions:

• There must be proper signage at all the doors.

• The signage should also be present in braille format.

• The handle height of the door must be 750mm-900mm.

• There must be proper tactile guidance till the rooms.

34

INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT

Doors & Room

Observations:

Suggestions:

35•Tactile warning tiles must be installed from the entrance to the room doors.

•Signage must be there on the right wall of the room entrance.

No tactile

No signage

tactile

signage

01


Drinking Water Facility

Observations:

• The drinking water facility located in the

circular area.

• There is no signage available for drinking

water.

• There are dispenser tap height 1300mm not

accessible for wheelchair user.

• The drinking water facility located every floor.

• Both the facilities are not sign posted.

• No signage and tactile for drinking water.36


Drinking Water Facility

� Consider modifying at least one wash basin making it

accessible for wheelchair users

� Consider beveling the level difference to allow wheelchair

users use the facility.

� Drinking water cooler/taps that extend into corridors and

have an open space underneath the fountain 750 mm in

height should be protected by a wall guard. The provision of

two drinking facilities at different heights is very convenient

for people in wheelchairs and children. The 100mm high

water flow is to allow for the insertion of a cup or glass.

Drinking water

Suggestion :

37


Toilets

• There is no separate toilet for disabled

person.

• There are separate toilets for males and

females.

• The door width is 700 mm making it difficult

for ambulant visitors and wheelchair users.

• The entry to the urinal is stepped (100 mm)

making it inaccessible.

• The signage is inadequate and is legible.

• The washbasin is at a height of 870 mm

making it inaccessible for wheelchair users.

• The toilets are maintained properly and

hygiene conditions are poor.

Observations:

38


Toilets

Observations:

• Step enter urinal dangers for visual impaired.

39


Toilets

� The existing toilet door width needs to be

widened to 900 mm to 1000mm allow at least

ambulant disabled visitor to use the facility.

� Signage in Braille is required to aid visually

impaired.

� There should be a wash basin facility, at a

preferable height of 750 mm to be accessible

for wheelchair users.

� Consider adding handrails to make to make

them accessible to ambulatory disabled.

� The existing toilets have very little scope for

accessible features due to space constraints.

� Its advisable to revamp the toilets. A

unisex/multi-use toilet can be constructed of a

dimension of 2000mm x 2200 mm on the

ground floor. For details refer to accessible

toilet stander

Suggestions:

40


Toilets

Suggestions:

Suggested full stall

urinal

Specifications

accessible hand

wash facility

A reference figure for public toilet based on

universal design is given on the next slide.

41

Model Lay out of a Public Toilet Unit

42

Internal Environment:

Emergency Evacuation

• Currently ,there is no dedicated fire exit but

there are two entry /exit gate so one can be

use for fire exit.

• There is no emergency exit signage .

• There is emergency exit /signage indicating the

emergency exit for those with disabilities or

have mobility problems.

• Main door width 1600mm.

• There are available fire alarm.

Observations:

43



Observations:

• No emergency signage

at building.

44



Suggestions:

�Emergency exit signage should be installed in English ,Hindi and Braille.

�Emergency exits should have emergency alarm both audio (hooter type) and visual (flashing bulb) on each floor/level at strategic locations.

�Conduct periodic training of staff in disability equality and handling in emergency.

� Fire proof lifts must be installed for easy evacuation.

45

INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION

No. Question Answer

1.a The website proving information about the building/service

complies with web accessibility standards.

NO

1.b There is information detailing the accessible facilities in the

building with photographs

NO

2. All publications/brochures are available is also available in

alternate accessible formats such as:

- Braille

- Large Print

- Audio

- Pictorial (wherever possible)

- Easy-to-read

- Plain language

- Available in Hindi& English

- Accessible Electronic formats that can be shared over email or

mobile platforms.

NO

3. Printed service related documents such as forms, menu cards,

etc. are in accessible formats

NO

4. Forms can be filled electronically through an accessible

software

NO

5. Additional support is available to fill written forms if required. NO

6. Staff members are trained in Indian Sign Language

interpretation. If not, then Sign language interpreters are

available on call.

NO

7. Assistive technology such as Loop hearing systems, Audio

orientation tools, interpretative video’s or audio tours in with

captioning or sign language, wheelchairs etc. are available

NO

8. There is adequate lighting and no glare for deaf persons and

persons with low vision

NO

9. Adequate support is available for persons from different

cultures, learning disabilities, those not formally educated, in

all the above provisions

NO

46

EVALUATION OF THE SERVICE

No. Question Answer

1. Disability sensitization sessions are part of the staff induction

programme.

NO

2. Staff are trained to assist persons with disabilities, including

persons with learning disabilities.

NO

3. Staff are trained in basic Indian sign language NO

4. Staff are aware of the accessible facilities that are available and

know how to operate them

NO

5. All accessibility equipment is checked regularly and maintained

well.

NO

6. There is a procedure for a client with disabilities to lodge a

complaint or make suggestions

NO

7. Guide dogs are allowed in the premises NO

8. Trained live assistance is available in premises for all disability

constituencies where it may be required

YES

9. There is a plan to improve accessibility over a set

timeframe

NO

10.a There is an equal opportunities policy within the organisation to

promote the employment of staff with disabilities

NO

10.b Policy also includes commitment to reasonable adjustment of

work place environment to accommodate new staff and

clients with disabilities

NO

11. Organisation has a disability focal person in charge who manages

the concerns of employees and clients with disabilities

NO

47

Standards

48

Standards

Standards No. Contents

Standards I Design Guidelines for Tactile Paving

Standards II Specifications : Signage

Standards III Accessible Parking

Standards IV Ramp Designs and Specifications

Standards V Handrails for ramps and stairs

Standards VI Reception Counters

Standards VII Staircase Specifications

Standards VIII Accessible Lifts

Standards IX Accessible Toilet Specifications

Standards X Emergency/Disaster Preparedness

49

Standards I

Design Guidelines for Tactile Paving to assist

Persons with Visual Impairment

• Tactile indicators for visually impaired visitors should be provided.

• Tactile guiding and warning blocks should be placed in the centre/side

of the pedestrian and approach pathway per guidelines in next slide.

• Warning of any level change and obstruction on the pathway should be

indicated by warning blocks such as, on the approach to a ramp.

Guiding Blocks Warning Blocks

Clear visual and tactile clues are

required to facilitate visit of vision-

impaired or people with low vision

50

Specifications: Placement of Tactile Paving

Tactile paving on pathways, turns

and intersections

Tactile paving on stairs and

crosswalks

51

Standards II

Specifications: SignageGeneral• Signage includes direction signs, signs of locality, street names and numbering, information

signs, etc. The main purpose of signage is to provide clear designation of places, warningand routing information. Symbols should be displayed at various facilities for people withdisabilities such as lifts, entrances, telephone booths, toilets, car parks and the like. Thesymbol of access should be permanently and conspicuously displayed to indicate thelocation of various facilities in the building.

• All types of signs should be visible, clear, simple, easy to read andunderstand, and properly lit at night.

• In general, signs should not be placed behind glass because of possible reflection.

• Signage placed on the pedestrian path of travel are considered obstructions; thus, theyshould be detectable and be clear of the path of travel.

• Universal signage helps to overcome language barriers.The art of designing signs and signage is rapidly evolving. It is worth

considering the following issues :

– Make clear distinctions between signs that offer directions and those that indicate

arrival.

– The design of signs should allow for contrasting colours, serif-free text, simple and

consistent use of symbols and the provision of tactile information, including Braille.

– Signs need to be well lit.

– Signs need to be carefully located so as to help visitors throughout their journey by

providing information at junctions or in long passageways.

– The use of voice activated signs may need to be considered.

– The height of the sign should be lower rather than higher as there is no perfect

height for all visitors and be tactile/braille enabled.

– Wall hung signs should not hang below 2000 mm else it may obstruct the passage

of walkers and may use pictograms and text. (tactile & braille will not be of any use

in wall hung signage)

52

- Symbols should be used wherever possible.

They are useful for visually impaired people

and people with learning difficulties.

-A good pictorial symbol depends on

simplicity, legibility and good recognition /

familiar factor.

International symbol of accessibility

Accessible spaces and facilities should be identified by the international symbol of accessibility.

Contrasting colours

Should be used to differentiate the figure from the background. The commonly employed colours are white for the figure and blue for the background.

The wheelchair figure should always be seen from drawn facing right.

Accessible entrances should be clearly identified using the international symbol of accessibility including alternate locations of accessible entrances

Room Signs

Signs should be installed on the wall adjacent

to the latch side of the door at a height of

1500 mm from the finished floor to the

centre line of the sign. Where there is no wall

space to the latch side of the door, signs shall

be placed on the nearest adjacent wall.

The room nameplate in Braille should be

incorporated into the signage at an

approximate height of 1300 mm from the

floor level.

Directional signage with colour contrast

53

Signage fonts should :

– Be clear with Sans serif typeface

– Be in lower and upper case

– Be left justified

– Embossed with Braille and Braille locators

– Non glare

Character height

Characters and numbers on signs should be sized according to the viewing

distance from which they are to be read . The smallest letter type should never

be less than 15 mm.

Finish & Contrast

The characters and background shall be matte or other non-glare finish.

Characters and symbols should contrast with their background. The color

combinations red/green and yellow/blue should not be used in order to avoid

confusing color-blind persons.

Some Specifications for Signage � By paying attention to the background and panel contrast the sign will be more easily visible.� Contrasting the text & symbols with the panel allows the sign to be more easily read.� Tactile text & symbols along with Braille enable the sign to be read by a blind person.� Signs which show the correct use of colour contrast, words, pictogram and arrow directions caters to diverse users.

Fig. Character heightFig. Colour Combination for Signage

54

Signage-Some examples

with tactile/Braille

Pictorial signage with tactile and Braille information

55

Room /Door Signage

Signage, nameplates and

numbers of the rooms to

be in Braille & raised

alphabets at the eye

level, on the wall, bold

& color contrasted with

their background.

Suggested Door hardware

56

Standards IIISpecifications: Accessible Parking

• Accessible parking bays should be located on the shortest possible route as closest to the accessible entrance as possible preferably within 30m of the nearest accessible entrance.

• The accessible parking bay for a single car parking should :

– Have minimum dimensions 4800 mm x 3600 mm for a single car parking.

– Have a firm, level surface without aeration slabs.

– The parking to be provided closest to the entrance.

– There should be a 900mm wide clear path leading to the entrance of the premises from the parking.

– The parking needs to be well signed.

– The parking managers need to make sure that it is used by appropriate people.

– Should be referred to as ‘Accessible Parking’ and not ‘Handicap Parking’.

– The alighting point and boarding point wherever possible should be sheltered.

– A passenger alighting and boarding point should provide an access aisle of at least 1200 mm wide X 6000 mm long adjacent and parallel to the vehicle pull-up space in case of single parking and 2400 mm wide and 6000 mm long for two cars with common aisle.

– Accessible parking areas should be marked by the international symbol of accessibility as a signpost at 2100 mm so that it doesn‘t get obscured by standing vehicles. Also, the symbol should also be panted on the ground surface of the parking space.

– Ensure that the signpost doesn’t block the access aisle or parking or pedestrian movement.

– Consider a bollard on the aisle so as to discourage parking. However, the bollard should leave at least 900 mm wide space so as to allow free movement of wheelchairs.

– Parking spaces should be located such that persons with disabilities are not compelled to wheel or walk behind the parked cars other than their own.

– The accessible route should not require persons on wheelchair to pass behind vehicles that are reversing.

– Wheel stoppers should be provided to avoid vehicles occupying space on the access aisle/pedestrian sidewalk.

• The Symbol of Access should also be displayed at approaches and entrances to car parks to indicate the provision of accessible parking lot for people with disabilities within the vicinity.

• Directional signs should be displayed at points where there is a change of direction to direct people with disabilities to the accessible parking lot.

Sample parking with painted

sign and bollard discouraging

unwanted parking on the

aisle and walkway connected

with the aisle.

Symbol of Access

Direction

al signs

Single and double Car

parking 57

Ramps Specifications

Fig. Design Specification of U-

shaped Ramp

Fig. Design Specification

of L-shaped Ramp

Fig. Example of an

alternate ramp with stairs;

Please note that handrails

benefit both ramp and

stair users and many

prefer one over the other.

Standards IV

58

Ramp Specifications

Gradient

• The ramp of a gradient of 1:15 is preferred and a gradient of 1:12 is the absolute maximum. A ramp gradient of 1:12 is often difficult to negotiate independently for many wheelchair users and may result in the wheelchair flipping backwards while ascending.

Width

• The minimum requirement for the clear unobstructed width of a ramp (i.e between handrails) is 1200mm and preferred width for two way movement is minimum 1800 mm.

Landings

• Landings should be provided along the length of the ramp at intervals of every 5 mts for a gradient of 1:12 and every 10 mts for a gradient of 1:15 or 1:20.

• Landings along the ramp should be at least the width of the ramp, not less than 1500mm long and clear of any door swing or other obstruction.

• There should always be a landing at the top and bottom of a ramp.

• Ramps should not connect straight to doors as wheelchair users need a leveled platform at the end of the ramp to maneuver and negotiate opening the door.

Ramp Surface

• The ramp surface and landings should be smooth, level, even and slip resistant especially when wet.

• Outdoor ramps and their surfaces should be designed to prevent water from accumulating on the walking surfaces.

• The surface finish should be hard and suitable for the volume of traffic that the ramp is likely to experience.

Tactile Ground Surface Indicators

• Tactile warning blocks should be placed 400 mm before the beginning and end of each ramp to indicate the level change to visually impaired persons.

General

• Where the horizontal run of the approach ramp exceeds 9000 mm in length, an alternative stepped approach in addition to the ramp approach, should be provided for people with ambulatory disabilities.

59

Standards V

Handrails for ramps and stairs

Fig. Landings and placement of tactile

warning strips on a ramp

Fig. Note handrails at two heights for children/persons with short stature & for adults and

extended rail before and after the ramp run to assist slow walkers/ elders and persons with

disabilities. Both handrails should be affixed in a way that allows a user to grasp it

continuously along its entire length — the location of brackets or posts should not require a

user to let go of the handrail at any time.

Fig. Two level handrails that

provide continuous hold to users.

60

Standard Specifications for Handrails

� Handrails should continue uninterrupted (except for doorways) on both sides

and around the landing. Both side railings helps people with left and right side

preferences and also for to and fro movement on the incline.

� Handrails should extend horizontally for a distance between 300mm and 450

mm at the top and bottom of stairs and ramps, except in places where

extensions could obstruct the pedestrian flow.

� For stairs or ramps more than 3000mm wide, a continuous intermediate

handrail should be considered.

Handrails should :-

• Be slip-resistant with round ends.

• Have a circular section of 30-45 mm in diameter.

• Be free of any sharp or abrasive elements.

• Have continuous gripping surfaces, without obstructions or interruptions that

can break a hand hold.

• Be provided on both the sides.

• Be continuous, even at the landings.

• Extend at least 300-450 mm beyond the beginning and end of the stairs/ramp

run. The ends of the handrails should return back to the railing or be grouted

in the wall or in the floor to prevent any injury to the users.

• Have a minimum clear space of 40 mm from the wall.

• Be installed at two heights, one at 700mm and the other at 900mm.

• Be finished so as to contrast in colour and luminance with the background

against which it will be viewed.

• Be made with a material that will not get hot in the direct sunlight, especially

in external installations.

• Be provided with Braille/tactile markings at the beginning and end to give

information to visually impaired people.

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Standards – V

Reception Counters

Following features should be included in the

reception area :

• Provide clear floor space of at least 900 mm x

1200 mm in front of the counters;

• Consider at least one counter on all public

dealing desks be receded to 750-800 mm from

floor level. The counter/desk should be

minimum 750mm high, have 480mm deep clear

knee space and be 900 mm wide to provide

accessibility to a guest with reduced mobility.

• There should be uniform light on the reception

desk of 300 lux and lighting should be so

positioned so as to illuminate the receptionist

and the desk top without creating any glare to

facilitate easy lip reading by Guest with Hearing

disability.

• The counters should have pictographic maps

indicating all the services offered at the counter

• The receptionists should be trained in basic sign

language to assist guest with hearing disability.

Some examples of accessible

reception counters

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In addition, the following are strongly recommended:-

• Have sound enhancement system available if required

with clear signage about its availability.

• Have a loop induction unit to benefit guests using

hearing aids and have a signage about its availability.

• Have a magnifying glass handy to benefit guests with

low vision on the counter.

• Staff managing the desk to be preferably fluent in sign

language or be acquainted with basic sign language.

• Provide a tactile guide map at the reception for visitors

with visual difficulties to orient themselves with the

building.

Sample Talking Tactile Map

Sample Tactile Guide Map

Tactile map-Germany Stuttgart’s Degerloch Rail Station

What is Induction loop system? : People with hearing

impairments find it difficult to grasp mass audio

activity. In an enclosed venue, it is possible to enclose

a small area with a loop-induction system so that

people with hearing impairments within it can hear

voices and sounds without ambient noise. A loop-

induction system comprises of a microphone, an

amplifier and a loop (a conducting wire encircling the

enclosure). The sound of music or the voices of actors

are converted into electromagnetic signals. The

signals are carried to the loop. A pickup coil fitted in a

hearing aid picks up the electromagnetic signals and

the receiver in the ear converts this into

comprehensible speech or music. Since the hearing

aid does not pick up actual sound signals, it receives

no ambient noise, ensuring good quality of sound.

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Standards VI

Stairs Specifications

• Risers should not be more than 150mm and treads

should not be less than 300mm deep.

• Open risers are a hazard for persons with reduced

mobility and hence should be avoided.

• Continuous handrails on both sides of the staircase

should be provided including the landings.

• Space under the staircase should be cordoned off by

putting guardrails or by closing the space with a wall

to prevent the visually impaired guest from walking

into it.

• Illumination of minimum 150 lux should be

maintained on the stair surface.

• Nosing on the stairs should contrast in colour and

tone with the tread. There should be colour contrast

strips/ Edge marking of 50 mm bordering the edge

of the tread as shown in the picture.

• Handrails should be provided on both sides,

preferably at two levels. At 700 mm and at 900-1000

mm.

• Tactile warning blocks should be installed 400mm

from the beginning and at the end of the stairs as an

indication of level change to visually impaired

persons.

The following features need to be kept in mind in

facilities where stairs are being built or exist:

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Standards VII

Accessible Lift Specifications

Lift• Where lifts are provided in a building, at least one lift should be made accessible from the

entrance level for vertical circulation.• The lift should serve all levels intended for access by people with disabilities.• Lifts designated for use by people with disabilities should be marked with proper signage and

directional signs be provided from all other entrances of the building to the accessible lift.

Lift Size• The minimum size of the lift should be 1200 mm wide by 1400mm deep.

Door• The lift door should have a clear opening of not less than 900 mm.• There should be no gap in level between the lift door and the floor surface at each level. If such

a gap is unavoidable, then it should not be more than 12 mm.

Call Button• Call button located outside the lift should have a clear floor space of at least 900 mm x 1200

mm with no obstruction placed to prevent a wheelchair user from reaching the call button; • Be installed at a height between 900 mm and 1200 mm.

• Control Panel• Have a dear floor space of at least 900 mm x 1200 mm with no obstruction placed to prevent a

wheelchair user from reaching it; • Be placed at a height of between 900 mm and 1200 mm from the floor level and have buttons

with Braille/raised letters and in sharp contrast from the background to aid people with visual impairments.

• Review mirror and kick plates to be fitted.

Grab Bars• Be placed at a height of 900mm from the floor level and be fixed on both sides and at the rear

of the lift.

Audio and Visual Indicators• The lift should have a voice announcement system along with a visual display to indicate the

floor level.• Number of the floor/block in big fonts and good colour contrast should be placed on the

opposite wall where the lift door opens.

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Standards VIIIAccessible Toilets Specifications & Designs

Accessible Toilet Specifications.

Accessible Toilet Specifications.

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Features of Unisex Accessible Toilets

The unisex accessible toilet should be located as close as possible to the

entrance of the building and shall comply with the following guidelines:

1. Have clear internal dimensions of not less than 2000 mm x 2200 mm. If the toilet is within the male or female section, then the dimension of not less than 2000 x 1750 mm may be accepted.

2. Be equipped with a door:

– that opens outwards or sliding type or be foldable.

– Single leaf door 1000 mm wide.

– That has horizontal pull bar at least 600 mm long on the inside and 140 mm long on the outside at least 700 mm high.

– Have an emergency release mechanism so that they are capable of being opened from outside in case of an emergency.

– Be capable of being locked from the inside by a device that is operable by one hand, activated by a force not more than 22 N and which does not require:

• fine finger control,

• tight grasping, and

• pinching or twisting of the wrist.

3. Have a slip resistant flooring.

4. Have a 400 mm high kick plate.

5. Have the toilet roll dispenser mounted below the grab bars and at not more than 300 mm from the front edge of the seat and at a height between 50 mm and 250 mm from the top of the water closet seat.

6. Be equipped with a cloth hook mounted on a side wall between 1000 -1300 mm from the floor and projecting not more than 40 mm from the wall.

7. Soap dispenser-single hand operation 900 mm high.

8. Provide space for sanitary bin clear of door and WC.

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….Features of Unisex Accessible Toilets

9. Wash Basin should comply with the following

features:

– Single lever mixer tap or sensor taps.

Recommended maximum temperature is

41 degrees.

– Be of a standard size with dimensions of

approximately 520 mm x 410 mm;

– Be mounted such that the minimum

distance between the centerline of the

fixture and the side wall is 460 mm;

– Be mounted such that the top edge is

between 800-900 mm and 840 mm from

the floor;

– Have a knee space of at least 750 mm wide

by 200 mm deep by 650- 680 mm high with

an additional toe space of at least 750 mm

wide by 230 mm deep by 230 mm high;

– Have a minimum clear floor space of 750

mm wide by 1200 mm deep, of which a

maximum of 480 mm in depth may be

under the wash basin;

– Have the hot water and drain pipes within

the knee space or toe space properly

insulated; and

– Have automatic or lever type faucets

– Mirror’s bottom edge to be 1000 mm from

the floor and maybe inclined at an angle.

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….Features of Unisex Accessible Toilets10. Water Closet should comply with the following

features:

– WC seat height should be 480-500 mm to the top of the seat for ease of transfer.

– Preferably be of wall hung or corbel type as it provides additional space at toe

level.

– Have a clear space of not less than 900 mm next to the WC.

– Be located between 460mm to 480 mm from the centerline of the WC to the

adjacent wall and have a clear dimension of 800 mm from the edge of the WC to

the rear of the wall to facilitate side transfer.

– Have a back support where there is no seat lid or tank. A back support reduces the chance of imbalance or injury caused by leaning against exposed valves or pipes.

– Grab bars at the rear and adjacent wall.

– Pull down grab bars to be provided on the transfer side at a distance of 320 mm from the centre line of the WC.

– Have flush control which is hand operated and located on transfer side of the water closet and not more than 1200 mm from the floor.

11. Hinged support drop down rail should be between 700-

800 mm height.

12. Fire alarm system to include visual and audible alarm in

the toilet that can be seen and heard from all the

cubicles.

13. Light switches with large push pads should be

preferably used.

14. Emergency assistance call signal is so located outside

the toilet compartment so that it can be easily seen

and heard by those able to give assistance.

Fig. Low height wash basin &

Low height urinals cater to

children as well as people of

short stature. Additionally if

grab bars are also provided this

becomes very user friendly to

those needing support while

walking.

Fig. Accessible Toilet with grab

bars

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Standards IX

Emergency Egress / Evacuation

strategy/ Disaster Preparedness

• Disaster preparedness should always be of highest order and must

keep the most vulnerable user of the building.

• Always include elderly and disabled persons while planning for

emergency

• An accessible environment enables persons with disabilities to not

only enter and use the environment independently but also to

leave safely in the vent of an emergency.

• The basic principle of an emergency egress strategy is to move

persons horizontally to a safe area where, if necessary, they can

await assistance or rescue, before travelling vertically to reach the

final exit level.

• The egress routes therefore, will comprise horizontal escape routes,

refuges, stairwells and lifts.

• In addition, A fire evacuation strategy must be in place which

should identify management procedures based on the design of the

building, its occupancy and use. These procedures should include

the egress of persons with disabilities in the event of fire.

• Emergency exits should be clearly marked with proper signage .

These exits should be clear of all obstructions at all times.

• Clear Well illuminated signage indicating escape routes are

essential.

• An alternative to immediate evacuation is a safe refuge point within

the building where the persons with disabilities could remain there

until the fire is controlled or put out or until rescued by fire fighters.

Refuge area should be provided usually at the fire-protected stair

landing on each floor that can safely hold one or two wheelchairs.

• Each area of refuge must be separate from the remainder of the

story by a smoke barrier having minimally one hour fire resistance

rating. Each area of smoke is to be designed to minimize the

intrusion of smoke.

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• Two wheelchair spaces of size 800x1200mm each should be provided in the refuge area. The area

of rescue assistance shall not encroach on any required exit width. The total number of such areas

per story shall be not less than one for every 200 persons of calculated occupant load served by

the area of rescue assistance.

• All stairs next to the refuge should have a clear width of 1200 mm between the handrails

• A method of two way communication, with both visible and audible signals, shall be provided

between each area of rescue assistance and the primary entry.

• Each area of rescue assistance shall be identified by a sign “Refuge Area/Point” and displays the

international symbol of accessibility. The sign should be illuminated when exit sign illumination is

required. Signage should also be installed at all inaccessible exits and where otherwise necessary

to clearly indicate the direction to areas of rescue assistance. In each area of rescue assistance,

instructions on the use of the area under emergency conditions shall be posted adjoining the two

way communication system.

• Alarm Systems (vocal, vibrating alarms and instructions for escape from danger)

• Consider emergency alarm both audio (hooter type) and visual (flashing bulb) on each floor/level

at strategic locations.

• f emergency warning systems, eg. Vibrating alarms or vocal alarms, are installed, they should

include a means of warning for visually impaired persons.

• Visual alarm devices should be provided for persons with hearing impairments

• Sockets should be provided near beds to allow alarm systems, including vibrating under pillow

devices, to be connected easily.

• Alarm signals such as flashing lights, vibrating beds or variable velocity fans can alert deaf or deaf

and blind residents. Emergency exit lights and directional signals mounted near the floor have

been found to be useful in cases where a lot of smoke is present. Pre-recorded messages and on

the spot broadcast from a central control centre would be of great benefit.

• Conduct periodic training of staff in disability equality and handling in emergency.

• Consider placing good colour contrasted signage indicated location of emergency exits.

71

Disclaimer

• Although we have offered the best advice available to us at the time

of compiling this audit report, please be advised that due to the

ongoing development of legislation in this area, all companies and

organizations should seek continuing advice to ensure that their

services and facilities remain compliant with their statutory

obligations.

• It is important that professionals with accessibility experience be

involved in all stages of the design, construction, renovation and

refurbishment process. Svayam can not accept any responsibility for

loss occasioned by reason of non-compliance with the requirements

of relevant legislation/rules, if revised in due course.

• Service Providers are more likely to be able to comply with their

duties if they:

– Periodically audit physical and non-physical barriers to access.

– Make appropriate adjustments.

– Provide training to staff which is relevant to these adjustments.

– Draw the adjustments to the attention of disabled people.

– Prepare, and monitor compliance with, an ‘Access

Implementation Plan’ taking into account the priority and cost

implications highlighted in the audit report, and incorporating

considerations to improvise access in planned maintenance

and management procedures.

– Let disabled people know how to request assistance.

– Regularly review the effectiveness of adjustments and act on

the findings.

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access audit report of circuit house,...

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