DESIGNING AN ACCESSIBLE CITY

Transcription

1 DESIGNING AN ACCESSIBLE CITY 1998 Edition Guidelines for an accessible built environment for disabled people in the City of London

2 Corporation of London The Corporation of London is the local authority for the financial and commercial heart of Britain - the City of London. The policies it pursues and the high standard of services it provides, are dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the City of London s status as the world s leading international financial centre. The Corporation is unique among local authorities; not only is it the oldest in the country, combining its ancient traditions and ceremonial functions with the role of an efficient modern authority, but it operates on a non-party political basis through its Lord Mayor, aldermen and members of the Court of Common Council. The Corporation s responsibilities extend beyond the Square Mile, and include a large number of facilities which are provided for the benefit of London and the nation as a whole. As the third largest funder of the arts in the UK, the Corporation owns, funds and manages the Barbican Centre, which attracts over two million visitors each year, and directly funds its two prestigious residents, the Royal Shakespeare Company and the London Symphony Orchestra. It also provides half the annual costs of the enormously popular Museum of London and runs the renowned Guildhall School of Music and Drama. It is the Port Health Authority for the whole of the Thames estuary; runs the three premier food markets at Smithfield, Billingsgate and Spitalfields; manages a portfolio of property throughout London and maintains and safeguards over 10,000 acres of open space in and around it, including Hampstead Heath, Epping Forest, Burnham Beeches and a string of parks and commons in Kent and Surrey. It is also responsible for the four bridges that cross the Thames into the City, including Tower Bridge, which is a major tourist attraction and an international symbol for London as a whole. In partnership with its neighbours the Corporation works to maintain, develop and promote a world class City. Photo (Left) Tower Bridge, a listed building, is fully accessible to disabled people. Photo (Cover) View of City of London skyline from across the River Thames Photo (Back) Main entrance to Guildhall

3 DESIGNING AN ACCESSIBLE CITY 1998 Edition GUIDELINES FOR AN ACCESSIBLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT FOR DISABLED PEOPLE IN THE CITY OF LONDON. Written by Published by Edited by Produced by Design Illustrations Photographs Julie Fleck MRTPI - Access Officer Corporation of London Milton Court, Moor Lane London EC2Y 9BL Telephone: /1933 Fax: Text phone: Dr David Bonnett RIBA David Bonnett Architects Masque Graphics John Darvill RIBA Corporation of London Department of Planning and Graham Bool Photography While all reasonable care and attention has been taken in preparing this guide, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for any errors or omissions.

4 The Corporation of London promotes the creation of an environment which is accessible to all. Disabled people are increasingly able to participate in social, cultural and leisure activities in the City as a result of improvements to the accessibility of the built environment. Considerable progress has been made by the Corporation through its programme to improve access to the City s streets and its public buildings. The Corporation remains one of the few local authorities to have a full time Access Officer. The City is constantly undergoing change and rebuilding, stimulated by its role as one of the world's leading financial centres. This provides a unique opportunity to ensure that new and refurbished buildings are made fully accessible. Legislation requires that access is provided in certain circumstances and the Corporation has adopted planning policies and design guidelines which reflect these requirements. This third edition of "Designing An Accessible City" has been updated to take account of recent developments, including the Disability Discrimination Act. It indicates the level of provision which the Corporation expects to see in applications coming before it, and gives advice to architects and developers on the minimum standards necessary to provide integrated and independent access for all disabled people. I commend the use of these standards to all who make decisions about the built environment and hope that the substantial progress made in recent years continues, so that the City can truly become accessible for all. Foreword Tom Simmons City Secretary 1998

5 INTRODUCTION 1 Contents Page LEGISLATION 2 Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act Disabled Persons Act Town and Country Panning Act Building Regulations Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations Disability Discrimination Act CORPORATION OF LONDON PLANNING POLICIES 4 Strategic Policy 4 Car Parking 4 Housing 4 Hotels and Visitor Attractions 5 LISTED BUILDINGS 6 ACCESS AUDITS AND ACTION PLANS 7 DESIGN GUIDELINES 8 EXTERNAL FEATURES 8 Car parking 8 Approach to the building 9 INTERNAL FEATURES 11 Entrance to the building 11 Reception areas 15 Internal circulation 15 Internal stairs 16 Lifts 16 WC facilities 18 OTHER FEATURES 21 Signage and communications 21 Equipment and facilities 23 Means of escape 25 FURTHER INFORMATION 27 Useful addresses 27 APPENDICES 28 Appendix 1 - Lifetime Homes Standards 28 Appendix 2 - ACE Housing Standards 28 REFERENCES 29

6 INTRODUCTION TO THE GUIDELINES This guide, Designing an Accessible City, offers guidance towards designing universal, integrated and independent access for disabled people. These guidelines have been produced to : ensure that architects, surveyors and developers are aware of their statutory and legal obligations regarding the needs of disabled people; outline the Corporation's planning policies regarding the provision of access and facilities in developments in the City; provide guidance on the standards necessary to ensure that the built environment is fully accessible to all. The changing state of the City, whether by redevelopment of outdated office buildings or the upgrading and refurbishment of many of the historic buildings, provides a unique opportunity to ensure that the City's environment caters for everyone's needs, including those of disabled people. Introduction A quarter of a million people come into the City each day to work, providing considerable scope for many disabled people to obtain employment. However, access to jobs, services, housing and entertainment in the City can be difficult, if not impossible, because the built environment often creates physical barriers to these opportunities. Effective access can be achieved if careful consideration is given to its inclusion at an early stage in the design process or as part of refurbishment. It is not just wheelchair users who benefit from improved access, but also older people, those with hidden disabilities, people with mobility, visual and hearing impairments, or simply people encumbered by luggage or heavy shopping or with children. Everyone benefits from an accessible environment where even minor alterations can make a significant improvement. An environment designed to be accessible to disabled people will be more accessible and user friendly for all of us. Easy access is part of good design and is beneficial to business. Photo 1 Photo 1 Ramped entrance to Wood Street Police Station, illustrating an accessible approach to a public building Page 1

7 LEGISLATION The process of introducing legislation on access to buildings for disabled people began in The range of legislative application has widened over time and detailed requirements have been extended and refined. The following are relevant and are listed in chronological order. Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 Ref 1 Section 4 (i) of this Act requires that : "Any person undertaking the provision of any building or premises to which the public are to be admitted, whether on payment or otherwise, shall, in the means of access both to and within the building or premises, and in the parking facilities and sanitary conveniences (if any), make provision, in so far as it is in the circumstances both practicable and reasonable, for the needs of members of the public visiting the building or premises who are disabled". Disabled Persons Act 1981 Ref 2 Section 3 of this Act inserted Sections 29A and 29B into the 1971 Town and Country Planning Act, now Section 76 of the 1990 Town and Country Planning Act. Town and Country Planning Act 1990 Ref 3 Section 76 requires that local planning authorities draw the attention of developers, when granting planning permission, to the relevant provisions of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970; to British Standard 5810:1979 Code of Practice for Access for the Disabled to Buildings; Design Note 18 (1984) Access for the Physically Disabled to Educational Buildings, (now superseded by Access for Disabled People to School Buildings 1995). Planning Act, and stressed the need to make developers aware, before submitting planning applications, of the needs of disabled people. The most recent Government advice is contained in PPG 1 Planning Policy Guidance Note: General Policies and Principles (DoE 1997). Ref 4 Paragraphs 33 and 34 state that:- Legislation "Proposals for the development of land provide the opportunity to secure a more accessible environment for everyone, including wheelchair users, other people with disabilities, elderly people and those with young children. Local planning authorities, both in development plans and in determining individual planning applications, should take into account access issues. These will include access to and into buildings, and the need for accessible housing... When a new building is proposed, or when planning permission is required for the alteration or change of use of an existing building, the developer and local planning authority should consider the needs of people with disabilities at an early stage in the design process. They should be flexible and imaginative in seeking solutions, taking account of the particular circumstances of each case. Resolving problems by negotiation will always be preferable, but where appropriate the planning authority may impose conditions requiring access provision for disabled people... The Building Regulations 1991 Ref 5 The requirements of the Approved Document M, 1992 Edition, Access and Facilities for Disabled People will be met by making it reasonably safe and convenient for disabled people to gain access to, and use, non-domestic buildings, whether visitors or employees. Ref 1 Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 Ref 2 Disabled Persons Act 1981 Ref 3 Town and Country Planning Act 1990 Ref 4 Planning Policy Guidance Note: General Policies and Principles DoE 1997 Ref 5 Building Regulations 1991 Approved Document M 1992 Edition The Department of the Environment (DoE) published Circular 10/82 in 1982 which helped to interpret Sections 29A and 29B of the Town and Country When an existing building is altered any access and facilities for disabled people should not be made any worse. Page 2

8 Part M requires that reasonable provision should be made for disabled people so that:- they can reach the principal entrance to the building and other entrances, from the edge of the site and from car parking within the curtilage elements of the building do not constitute a hazard for a person with a sight impairment access is possible into and within any storey of the building and to any facilities where these are required they can use the building's facilities access is possible to hotel and motel bedrooms suitable sanitary accommodation is available wheelchair user positions are provided in audience or spectator seating aids to communication for people with a hearing or sight impairment are catered for in auditoria, meeting rooms, reception areas and ticket offices Whilst the guidance aims to ensure that buildings are accessible and useable by disabled people, designers and developers are encouraged to go beyond the minimum level of provision demanded by Part M. The Government announced in March 1998 the proposed extension of Part M of the Building Regulations to new dwellings. The measures to be included in the approved document will cover: level entry to the principal, or a suitable alternative, entrance an entrance door wide enough to allow wheelchair access WC provision on the entrance or first habitable storey adequate circulation and wider doors within the entrance storey switches and socket outlets at appropriate heights from floor level Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 Ref 6 The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 aim to ensure that workplaces meet the health, safety and welfare needs of each member of the workplace, including disabled people. Several of the Regulations require traffic routes, facilities and work stations which are used by disabled people to be suitable for them as defined in Regulation 2 (3). Designers should remain aware that the obligations placed on them by the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974 and its various regulations, apply equally to disabled people as to non-disabled people. Disability Discrimination Act 1995 Ref 7 The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) includes measures to end discrimination against disabled people by providing new rights in the areas of employment, obtaining goods and services, and buying or renting land or property. It is now against the law for: Legislation level or gently sloping approach from the car parking space to the dwelling, or where this is not possible, easy-going steps, but not a stepped ramp where a lift is to be provided in flats, a minimum lift capacity and dimensions will be recommended where a lift is not provided the common stairs to be designed to suit the needs of ambulant disabled people an employer to treat a disabled person less favourably than someone else because of their disability for a service provider to refuse to serve someone who is disabled to offer a disabled person a service at a lower standard or on different terms or to discriminate when selling or letting land or property Ref 6 Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 Ref 7 Disability Discrimination Act 1995 Page 3

9 Employers and people who provide goods and services to the public now have to take reasonable measures to ensure that they are not discriminating against disabled people. Service providers also have a duty to make adjustments to their service. Where a disabled person finds that the use of a service is impossible or unreasonably difficult, by October 1999 a service provider will have to take reasonable steps to change policies, practices and procedures and provide auxiliary aids and services (such as a British Sign Language interpreter, induction loops, information in Braille or on tape). By 2004 service providers will be required to remove physical barriers, so that a disabled person can use the service. These duties have been introduced in stages with the intention of allowing time to plan ahead. Reasonable adjustments will be determined by case law as disabled people bring claims against employers and service providers in the courts. It will therefore be cost effective for employers and service providers to make provision for disabled people as part of alterations, or other improvement programmes. Corporation of London Planning Policies Normally to require access to, and to promote and encourage the provision of, facilities and amenities for people with physical and/or sensory disabilities where appropriate and practicable, and to promote the improvement of pedestrian facilities for such persons. POLICY SOC 3 Car Parking Ref 9 To seek the provision and improvement of parking arrangements for people with disabilities POLICY TRANS 26 As public transport in the City is not easily accessible some people with physical disabilities have to rely on their own car to get to and from work. It is therefore essential that adequate and accessible parking spaces are provided. Housing Ref 10 To encourage the provision of accommodation for people with special housing needs in appropriate locations and to resist the loss of such accommodation where a need for it exists. POLICY HOUS 8 Ref 8 UDP Policy STRAT 15 and UDP Policy SOC 3 Ref 9 UDP Policy TRANS 26 Ref 10 UDP Policy HOUS 8 PLANNING POLICIES To ensure that the needs of disabled people are taken into account, in all developments, the following policies are included in the City of London Unitary Development Plan. Early consultation with the Corporation s Access Officer prior to submitting a planning application, and following the advice in this document, should ensure compliance with these policies. Strategic Policy Ref 8 "The Corporation will encourage accessibility throughout the City for disabled people and will ensure that appropriate provision is made for their needs in all development. POLICY STRAT 15 The Corporation will normally require new housing development to be accessible to people with disabilities in accordance with the accessible general housing and wheelchair housing standards... Paragraph 16.4 UDP Standards Chapter Many disabled people experience hardship as a result of being unable to find housing suited to their needs. However, by following some basic design criteria, many homes could be more easily suited or adapted to meet the needs of disabled people. Housing Associations are already required to design accessible housing when applying for Housing Association grants. These requirements are set out in the Housing Corporation s Scheme Development Standards. Page 4

10 Housing with level access, adequate door widths, reasonable circulation space in halls and passageways and an entrance level toilet, will be capable of easy adaptation without major structural alterations, to suit the physical needs of most disabled people. These features will be a requirement of the extended Part M of the Building Regulations, to be applied to new housing from October The Joseph Rowntree Foundation has developed the concept of Lifetime Homes, which are designed to meet the needs of occupiers throughout their lifetime. Lifetime Homes look no different to other homes but features incorporated into their design help parents with young children, grandparents, disabled and nondisabled people, by enabling easy adaptation if a member of the household becomes disabled or frail in old age. Incorporating the 16 Lifetime Homes design criteria will provide flexible, convenient, safe and accessible housing. (See Appendix 1) With an increasing number of proposals in the City to provide new housing or to convert office buildings into new homes, the Corporation encourages the concept of accessible housing wherever this is practicable and feasible. The Corporation recommends that new housing units with a ground floor entrance or accessed by lift be built in accordance with the criteria for accessible general housing set out by the Access Committee for England (ACE) in Building Homes for Successive Generations. (See Appendix 2) Ref 11 Conversions and extensions should also be designed as far as practicable to these standards, with car parking for disabled people, where possible. Corporation of London Planning Policies In developments of 20 or more housing units, which are conveniently located for shops and services, 10% of units should be specifically designed to be wheelchair accessible or capable of easy adaptation. The design standards required for homes accessible for wheelchair users are detailed in the National Wheelchair Housing Association Group s publication Wheelchair Housing Design Guide. Ref 12 Hotels and Visitor Attractions Ref 13, 14 All new hotel accommodation should be built to the standards of the English Tourist Board (Tourism for All - Providing Accessible Accommodation 1990) and should have a minimum of one bedroom out of every twenty specifically designed for use by wheelchair users. All new hostel accommodation at ground floor level or at other levels with lift access should be built to Accessible General Housing Standards and should have a minimum of one bedroom out of every 20 specifically designed for, or capable of easy adaptation to, wheelchair housing standards wherever possible. Paragraph 16.8 UDP Standards Chapter The Corporation encourages the provision of hotel accommodation and suitable amenities to meet the needs of disabled visitors to the City. Ideally, all hotels should be designed to meet the Tourism For All National Accessible Accommodation Category 1 Standard, ie be accessible to a wheelchair user travelling independently. New hotels should, in any case, comply with the requirements of Part M of the Building Regulations. Ref 11 ACE - Criteria for Accessible General Housing 1992 Ref 12 NATWHAG - Wheelchair Housing Design Guide 1997 Ref 13 English Tourist Board - Tourism for All - Providing Accessible Accommodation 1990 Ref 14 English Tourist Board - Tourism For All - Providing Accessible Visitor Attractions 1994 The Access Committee for England s standards will not necessarily produce a home suitable for wheelchair users. The Corporation has therefore adopted additional standards for larger schemes. Tourist attractions should also be accessible and provide facilities for disabled visitors, in accordance with the standard set by the English Tourist Board document Tourism For All - Providing Accessible Visitor Attractions Page 5

11 IMPROVING ACCESS TO LISTED BUILDINGS Ref 15, 16 Many listed buildings in the City have now been made accessible to disabled people. With consideration and attention to detail, improved access can be achieved without detrimental effect on the character of listed buildings. The Government s Planning Policy Guidance Note: Planning and the Historic Environment (PPG15 ) states that: It is important in principle that disabled people should have dignified easy access to and within historic buildings. If it is treated as part of an integrated review of access requirements for all visitors or users, and a flexible and pragmatic approach is taken, it should normally be possible to plan suitable access for disabled people without compromising a building s special interest. Alternative routes or re-organising the use of spaces may achieve the desired result without the need for damaging alterations. English Heritage s publication Easy Access to Historic Properties, sets out its policy to encourage owners and managers of listed buildings to provide easy and dignified access where this can Listed Buildings reasonably be achieved, and where this is consistent with the special architectural, historic or archeological character of the property. English Heritage (EH) promotes the concept of independent access whereby disabled people can avoid being carried, lifted or assisted. Wherever possible listed buildings should be as easily used by disabled people as by others. EH further recommends that a comprehensive assessment of an historic property s access requirements is carried out to form an Access Plan. This step-bystep approach should be flexible and pragmatic in its application. The Access Plan should set out the access proposals, establish priorities and timescales for action, define the management for implementation and provide for periodic review. It is recognised that full accessibility in some historic properties will not be achievable and that there may need to be compromise. Early consultation with the Corporation s Urban Design Officer and the Corporation s Access Officer will assist in resolving any possible conflict. Ref 15 Planning and the Historic Environment PPG 15 Ref 16 English Heritage - Easy Access to Historic Properties 1995 Photo 2 Guildhall, a Grade 1 listed building, has a level entrance that provides easy access Photo 2 Photo 3 Page 6 Photo 3 Mansion House, a Grade 1 listed building, has an accessible entrance and internal lift

12 ACCESS AUDITS AND ACTION PLANS Ref 17 Following the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Act many organisations are now undertaking access audits and developing strategies to implement access improvements. Undertaking a comprehensive access audit and using this information to prepare an Access Action Plan for future improvements, will greatly assist in implementing the aims of the Act. The Access Committee for England, in its publication Towards Better Access - a guide to the development of effective Access Action Plans, recommends an holistic approach to the provision of reasonable access. Access Audits and Action Plans An effective access audit should involve a thorough survey of the building. Issues such as the use of the building, maintenance programmes and management procedures (such as Health and Safety, and Means of Escape procedures) should be considered. Staff and other users of the building, including disabled people ought to be consulted. The audit should include not only an assessment of the internal features of buildings, but also their external surroundings, and facilities such as car parking and pedestrian routes. Art or street furniture require the same consideration for access as other external features; for example colour contrast and tactile surfaces. (See Photos 4 and 5) Access Action Plans Ref 17 ACE - A Guide to the Development of Effective Access Action Plans 1997 Access Audits Employers and service providers are encouraged to plan ahead by undertaking an access audit to evaluate whether or not physical improvements are necessary. The process begins with an access audit which is a systematic appraisal of a building measured against an agreed set of standards, such as those outlined in this document. The results of the audit will provide the information for an Access Action Plan to be developed. The plan will prioritise improvements and indicate where they might be included as part of routine maintenance and repairs. A comprehensive plan will take account of the need for staff training, to raise awareness and challenge stereotypical assumptions; and the need to review policies, practices and procedures which, along with physical barriers, can discriminate against disabled people. Photo 4 Photo 5 Page 7 Photo 4 Corporation of London bollard contrasting well with background Photo 5 Textured paving can help highlight potential hazards on the footway

13 DETAILED ACCESS GUIDELINES These design guidelines are based on: Building Regulations 1991 Approved Document M British Standards Institution (Codes of Practice) Government circulars and PPGs Access Committee for England guidance Centre for Accessible Environments guidance RNID and RNIB guidance The guidelines are considered to be the minimum required to ensure adequate access for disabled people and they should be incorporated into the design of new buildings, as well as into extensions or alterations to existing buildings. All dimensions given in diagrams are in millimetres unless stated otherwise. EXTERNAL FEATURES CAR PARKING Ref 9, 18 As public transport is not always easily accessible, some disabled people rely on their own vehicles to get to and from work. It is therefore essential that adequate and accessible parking spaces are designated for disabled people, whether employees or visitors to the building. Where car parking is provided, 1 in every 10 spaces should be reserved for disabled people. Where the number of car parking spaces is less than 10, at least one space should be reserved. The parking space should be 3.6m wide, allowing transfer from a wheelchair into a car, correctly marked out and signed with the wheelchair symbol. Alternatively a shared transfer space 1.2 m wide can be provided between two standard bays of 2.4m wide. Diagram 1 Bays in line should be 6.6m long to allow access to the car boot where a wheelchair may be stowed. Diagram 2 The reserved parking bays should be located adjacent to the building entrance or car park lift, to minimise the travel distance from the car and the work-place. The route to an entrance or lift from the parking bays should be accessible and clearly designated. Many basement and lower ground parking areas are set below the entrance door level in case of petrol spillage. This forms a step which should have a ramped alternative. The lobbies, doors and lifts en route from the parking bays to the workplace should meet the standards laid down in this guide. Ref 18 Department of Transport - Traffic Advisory Leaflet 5/95: Parking for Disabled People DISABLED Zone of transfer from wheelchair to car shared between two standard width bays Diagram Bays in line Access available from the side Diagram 1 Car parking spaces showing bay sizes and sign to accompany reserved spaces Diagram 2 Bays in line showing additional length required 300 DISABLED BADGE HOLDERS ONLY Diagram 1 Photo Photo 6 Clearly marked designated car parking bay in the City Page 8

14 Ducting installed into basement car parks can often result in restricted headroom. Such obstacles and pedestrian restrictions should be designed away from circulation routes and from the reserved parking spaces. The parking space and sign should be well lit. The management of the parking bays should ensure that abuse of the reserved spaces does not occur. If access into the car park is via a car lift, the controls of the lift or any security barrier should be useable from the driver s seat of the car, avoiding the need to get out of the car until it is parked (it can take several minutes and considerable effort to lift a wheelchair in or out of a car). APPROACH TO THE BUILDING Paths Ref 19, 20, 21 Pedestrian routes from adjacent roads, bus stops and taxi drop-off points should follow the guidance in Diagram 3. Paths should be free of obstacles, clearly defined and well lit up to the building entrance, with dropped kerbs located where necessary, especially across service roads or car park entrances. Blister type tactile paving should be installed on dropped kerbs where the route crosses a carriageway. Where forecourts or landscaped areas are part of the approach to an entrance there should be a direct and unobstructed route to the entrance which is well lit. Surfaces should be firm and non-slip and obstacles such as path edges, trees, seats and bollards should be clearly defined to assist partially sighted people. All planting should be well maintained and kept trimmed back away from pedestrian routes. Trees should not overhang the footpath unless branches are higher than 2.5 metres above the ground. Colour contrast and tactile finishes in hard landscaping should be used to help define routes, and warn people with visual impairments of possible dangers or hazards such as a change in level. Features which may obstruct a route adjacent to a building, such as outward opening doors or windows, can be a hazard to partially sighted people. Textured paving or guard rails should be used to alert people to these. A boards, menu stands or other display material should not be located on the footway because they cause obstruction and are a hazard for blind and partially sighted people. Ref 19 Department of the Environment Transport and the Regions - Guidance on the Use of Tactile Paving Surfaces 1997 Ref 20 RNIB - Building Sight: A Handbook of Building and Interior Design Solutions - to include the needs of visually impaired people 1995 Ref 21 Institution of Highways and Transportation - Guidelines for Reducing Mobility Handicaps Rail to guard against outward opening door Raised/textured surface to warn of hazard Firm non-slip surface Path edge with kerb or low rail; splayed corners to ease access 800mm high walls/planters 1m bollards in contrasting colours. Avoid chains min between obstacles (1800 min) allows wheelchairs and buggies to pass Warning surface at crossing point Extra congregating space Seat with arms and space for wheelchair set back from path External lighting near route junctions Colour or texture change at obstacle Diagram 3 Design guidelines for landscaped approach and paths to main entrance Diagram 3 Page 9

15 External ramps Ref 5 Any change in level should be made as gentle as possible, preferably with a gradient no steeper than 1 : 20. Short and shallow ramps minimise difficulties for wheelchair users for both ascent and descent, and reduce the likelihood of slipping for people with walking difficulties. A gradient of 1 : 12 is the steepest permissible and should only be used if unavoidable. Ideal gradients should be between 1 : 15 and 1 : 20. Ramps steeper than 1 : 20 should have as an alternative, a flight of steps, for people who prefer these. Because frequent stops may be necessary to regain strength or ease pain, level landings are necessary. Ramps with a gradient between 1 : 20 and 1 : 15 should have a level resting point 1.5m long, every 10m. Gradients steeper than 1 : 15 should have level resting points every 5m. Ramps should comply with Diagram 4. Ramps or steps should be within the curtilage of the development. They should have non-slip surfaces and be well lit. Stepped ramps should not be used, as wheelchair users are unable to negotiate these without assistance. A ramped approach to an existing building can often be achieved by recessing the entrance door. Such ramps must not, however, project over adjacent pathways where this would be a hazard. Where site characteristics prevent ramping it may be possible to raise the level of the external footway. If the external area to be raised is on the public highway, this must only be undertaken by the Director of Technical Services. External steps Ref 5 Steps should be at least 1m wide and no more than 1.8m between handrails. There should be at least 1.2m of space at the top and bottom of flights clear of any door swing. Risers and treads should be uniform in height and length. Tread nosings should be profiled so that they are not a tripping hazard for people at risk of catching their feet. Tapering treads and open risers are hazardous for blind and partially sighted people and should be avoided. All steps should comply with the requirements shown in Diagram 4. Corduroy tactile paving should be installed at the top and bottom (not on the intermediate landings) of a flight of steps, to warn blind and partially sighted people of the change in level. The corduroy paving should start 400mm back from the nosing and should extend for a minimum of 800 mm Ramp between landings 10m for 1:15 to1:20 slope, or 5m for 1:12 to 1:15 slope Width of ramp surface minimum 1.2m, unobstructed width of 1m minimum Top and bottom landing length 1.2m minimum Intermediate landing length 1.5m minimum Height of kerb to open side of ramp 100mm minimum Nosing to each tread distinguished by permanent colour or tonal contrast Step risers 150mm max. and treads 280mm min. Open risers or tapering treads not recommended Return handrail to wall or provide positive end. Handrail 900mm above nosing line Extend handrail horizontally beyond top and bottom step 450mm (300min) Corduroy tactile paving to top and bottom of stairs Diagram 4 Page Diagram 4 Design guidelines for accessible ramps and steps

16 The nosing of each step should be easily distinguishable for partially sighted people. Handrails Ref 5, 22 Ramps and steps should have handrails on both sides which continue across landings. The handrail should extend horizontally at least 300mm (preferably 450mm) beyond the top and bottom of the ramp or steps, with their ends clearly indicated by turning downwards or to the wall. Diagram 4, Photo 7 Even on a single step a handrail can provide essential support. Handrails should be easy to grasp with a maximum diameter of 45-50mm, colour contrasted with the background. Handrails should be 900 mm above the surface of a ramp or the pitch line of a flight of stairs and 1m above the surface of a landing. Building Regulations Part K also requires a guard rail where there are two or more risers. INTERNAL FEATURES ENTRANCE TO THE BUILDING Ref 5 Access arrangements for disabled people should be integrated into the design rather than treated separately. Staff entrances and fire exits, as well as the main entrance, should be fully accessible so that disabled people can use the same routes as others. It is preferable that the approach to the principal or main entrance of the building should also be level, so that everyone can enter the building through the main entrance. The use of secondary or service entrances for disabled people is unacceptable. Nor is it acceptable to oblige disabled people to ring door bells or wait to be escorted into the building by a member of staff. In exceptional circumstances, such as certain listed buildings, it may be acceptable to have a secondary entrance as the accessible way into a building. In such cases, a sign outside the building at the main entrance should indicate the way to the accessible entrance, using the international wheelchair symbol. Entrance levels Ref 5 Entrances should be built flush with the external level. Traditionally many shop floors were built one step above the external level. Even a single step at the entrance can be very hazardous as it often goes unnoticed. Coping with a step and a door at the same time is impossible for many disabled people. Ref 22 Building Regulations Part K - Protection from falling, collision and impact Edition Photo 7 External steps showing extended handrail and distinguishable nosings Photo 8 Automatic doors with vision bands at eye level, and contrasting door surround Photo 7 Photo 8 Page 11

17 When inaccessible shop units are being refurbished, or extended, or new shop fronts are installed, a level entrance should be created. When alterations are undertaken, the Corporation will expect the floor level to be lowered to achieve this, wherever feasible and practicable. It is appreciated that in some circumstances altering floor levels in existing buildings can be difficult to achieve, particularly if basement lights, smoke outlets or structural beams create obstacles. If a building is listed or in a conservation area, design considerations must be taken into account when changing the floor level or removing steps. However, every opportunity should be taken to improve access. Entrance doors Ref 5 The entrance doors to a building should have a clear, well lit, unobstructed and level approach with an uninterrupted entry space a minimum of 1.2m clear of the door swing. Photo 9 The potential difficulties of going through a doorway should not be compounded by other problems, such as steps, ramps or insufficient manoeuvring space. Some shop units have overhead heat curtains at entrance doors allowing them to remain permanently open. This is an ideal entrance, with barriers removed. However, an indication of the entrance, such as a change in surface texture or in lighting, should be provided to help orientate blind and partially sighted people. Automatic doors Ref 23, 24 Entrance doors should be designed for all to use. It is not just wheelchair users who have difficulty using revolving doors, but also visually impaired people and those unsteady on their feet. Large motorised revolving doors can also cause some people difficulties and automatic biparting or sliding doors are preferred. Automatic sliding doors are the most convenient form of access for disabled people. They should remain open long enough for people who move slowly to go through the doors safely. Photo eye or infra- red sensors on doors prevent a person being hit should the doors start to close too soon. Door openings Ref 5 Entrance doors must have a minimum clear opening width of 800mm for a wheelchair; for a double buggy 900mm is preferred. There should be a 300mm unobstructed space beside the leading edge of the door to allow a wheelchair user to easily manoeuvre up to and reach the door handle. Diagram 5 Ref 23 BS Code of Practice for Safety at Powered Doors for Pedestrian use Ref 24 CAE - Automatic Door Controls. Specifiers Handbook 3 800mm clear opening for door leaf (preferably 900mm) Photo 9 Diagram 5 800mm clear door opening (preferably 900mm) 1m doorset 300 Photo 9 Level entrance to a cafe in Cheapside Diagram 5 Entrance door widths Page 12

18 For double doors, one door should have a minimum clear width of 800mm, so that only one leaf need be opened. Door ironmongery Ref 25 Door handles should be easy to grasp. Lever handles are easier to use than door knobs, particularly for people with arthritic hands. There should be at least 45mm between the door and the handle to enable it to be opened easily. The lever should be 20-35mm in diameter and clearly distinguished from the door by a contrasting colour. Diagram 6 Kickplates 400mm high can protect doors from damage from wheelchair footplates. Door glazing Ref 5, 20, 26 Circulation doors should have glazed vision panels to ensure people approaching the door can be seen from either side. The vision panel should extend from 1.5m down to at least 900mm above floor level. This is the right height to allow wheelchair users to see through the door. Diagram 7 Large areas of uninterrupted glazing should be easy to identify, to prevent people accidentally walking into the glass. This can be achieved by incorporating permanent banding across the glass in contrasting colours, 1.5m above floor level. Partially sighted people may have difficulty detecting the edge of a fully glazed door which should therefore have a clearly visible frame around the door. Large handles or push plates can assist in ensuring that people do not walk into the glass. If the door is a push-swing type with no handles, a sign at the push point can assist access. Entrance thresholds Ref 5 Door thresholds should be flush. Weather protection can be ensured by slightly recessing the door or installing a canopy. A small grate or gully beside the entrance door or a very slight change in gradient externally will also assist drainage. Gratings with narrow slots will avoid trapping small wheels or walking sticks. In some circumstances weather thresholds may be necessary, but they should not exceed 12mm in height. The threshold must be of a chamfered design and not angular in section. Additional protection is possible by using a hinged weather bar with a rubber blade attached to the door. This springs into Ref 25 CAE - Designing for Accessibility - an introductory guide 1994 Ref 26 Building Regulations Part N Glazing - safety in relation to impact, opening and cleaning 1998 Edition 1500 min Pull handle Lever handle Door handles should be: 20-35mm diameter, clearly distinguishable, at least 45mm from back of handle to door. 900 min Minimum zone of visibility 400 min Kick plate Diagram 6 Door lever and pull handles Diagram 7 Vision panel heights for circulation doors Page 13 Diagram 6 Diagram 7

19 position when the door is closed, thereby sealing and draught proofing the door. Mat wells Ref 25 Mats in entrance doorways should be in a mat well which is flush with the adjacent surface, thereby avoiding a tripping hazard. They need to be closefitting at the edges to ensure that canes or wheels do not become wedged. Shallow pile rigid mats are preferable to flexible coir or metal link mats. Entrance Lobbies Ref 5, 20, 25 Lobby arrangements at entrances are not ideal as additional sets of doors can create obstacles to disabled people. If disabled doors are people. essential If doors both sets preferably are should essential be automated. both setslobbies can be preferably avoided altogether should be by automated. installing overhead Lobbies can heat be replacement avoided altogether units reduce by installing heat overhead loss in open heat reception replacement areas. units to reduce heat loss in open reception areas. Where entrances must have two sets of Where doors to entrances create a lobby, must have there two should sets be of doors sufficient to create space a clear lobby, of each there door should swing be sufficient to allow a space wheelchair clear of user each to door pass swing to through allow both a wheelchair sets of doors user to without pass through becoming both trapped. sets of Diagram doors without 8 becoming trapped. Diagram 8 Floor surfaces in entrances should be Floor non-slip; surfaces this is in particularly entrances should essential bein non-slip; wet weather. this is particularly essential in wet weather. Transitional lighting between the bright outside and dimmer interior can assist people who are disorientated by sudden contrasts in lighting levels. Secure entry systems Ref 25 Where an entrance is locked for security reasons, any bell or intercom system should be within reach of a wheelchair user, no higher than 1.2m above floor level. It should be obvious, well lit and ideally, undercover. It should include audible and visible instructions for hearing and visually impaired people. Large, well spaced tactile numerals can assist visually impaired users. An LED unit will inform a deaf person that their call has been answered. An inductive coupler should be incorporated into the entry phone to assist hearing-aid users. It needs to be clearly signed. Of the wide range of security card entry systems available, proximity cards are most suitable as they do not require the user to reach, swipe or push. Where a security card entry system is used, the card swipe should be no higher than 1.2m above floor level, within reach of a wheelchair user. Two way double doors One way double doors min 1200 Automatic sliding doors Single doors one way Single doors at right angles Single doors inward opening Diagram 8 Entrance lobbies showing key dimensions Diagram 8 Page 14

20 RECEPTION AREAS Reception point Ref 20, 25 The reception area should be well lit with plenty of circulation space and with routes to reception counters, lifts, stairs and toilets clearly defined and unobstructed. The receptionist s face should be clearly visible to all, and well lit in case it is necessary to lip-read. Photo 10, Diagram 16 Where sliding glass windows are installed, they should be fully openable to allow for audible conversation. Audio-visual features Ref 5 An induction loop to assist hearing aid users should be installed if the reception area is behind a fixed glass screen, or in very large reception areas which are particularly likely to have a high level of background noise. A sign should be displayed to inform visitors that an induction loop is installed, so that hearing impaired people can switch their hearing aid to the T position. The counter loop should be located near to the position where visitors will stand. INTERNAL CIRCULATION Corridors Ref 5, 20, 25 Corridors should be unobstructed and between m wide. Splayed or rounded corners help with wheelchair manoeuvring. Corridors and internal lobbies should comply with the requirements shown in Diagram 9 Circulation space Ref 5, 20, 25 It is essential for everyone to be able to move around conveniently in any public building. For example colour contrast used in floor materials can highlight accessible routes. Shops, restaurants or bars should have access available to all services, including self service counters and at least half the seating area. Wheelchair and stick users can have difficulty manoeuvring between narrow spaces, such as shelving units in shops, or tables in restaurants. Obstacles projecting into circulation routes, such as fire extinguishers, should be recessed. Where space is limited, for example in a very small shop, there should at least be good circulation through the centre of the unit and to the cash till Photo 10 A seated receptionist is at a convenient eye-level for wheelchair users. All door sets - 900mm wide (to allow clear opening of 750mm) Clear space to leading edge of door - 300mm minimum Diagram 9 Dimensions for internal lobbies Photo 10 Diagram 9 Page 15

21 INTERNAL STAIRS Stair dimensions Ref 5 Staircases should be suitable for people with walking difficulties and also for blind and partially sighted people, especially where there is no passenger lift. Stairs should have colour contrasting nosings, with risers no more than 170mm and goings no less than 250mm. The staircase requires a level landing every 1.8m of stair rise and a continuous handrail to both sides, extended at top and bottom. LIFTS Ref 5 Lifts should serve all floors, including basements and car parks, providing access throughout the building for disabled people. The Building Regulations only require the provision of passenger lifts in certain sizes of new premises. However, as the most convenient form of access between storeys, lifts should be installed wherever feasible. In certain circumstances the Corporation may require lift installation where the floor area is below the minimum size specified in Approved Document M of the Building Regulations, for example in basement restaurants and wine-bars. Lift car design Ref 5 The internal dimensions of the lift car should be a minimum of 1.1m wide and 1.4m deep. This is a standard 8 person lift which is large enough for a wheelchair user and companion. A larger 12 person lift will allow a wheelchair user to turn around thereby avoiding the need to reverse in or out of the lift. Lift doors should have a minimum of 800mm of clear opening width. In front of lift doors there should be 1500 x 1500mm of unobstructed landing space to allow easy manoeuvre in and out of the lift. Diagram 10, 11 Lift car interior Ref 5, 20, 25 Careful design of the interior of the car can make using the lift easier. Seating is recommended outside the lift for use while waiting, and flip-down seats inside the lift. An easy-grip handrail should be provided. A mirror on the rear wall can help wheelchair users where it is necessary to reverse out of a smaller (8 person) lift. Care needs to be taken to ensure that mirrors do not cause confusion and disorientate partially sighted people. Colour contrast between the walls and the floor, handrail and lift control panel, can assist visually impaired people. Controls between above floor level 400 Delayed door closing with photo eye or infra red door re-activating device 800 min door width Raised floor numerals with illuminated and audible systems inside car and at landings Splayed or rounded edges to minimise damage and avoid injury handrail 1200 Diagram 10 Lift car minimum internal dimensions x 1500 unobstructed landing space with warning texture Diagram 11 Landing area dimensions Diagram 10 Diagram 11 Page 16

22 Illumination should be designed to avoid both glare and shadows. Emergency telephone or intercom systems should be designed so that they can be used by hearing or visually impaired people and reached by wheelchair users. Any voice communication system should be looped for hearing aid users and appropriately signed. Lift controls Ref 5, 20, 25 Door closing mechanisms should allow doors to stay open for at least 5 seconds before they begin to close. Together with an audible warning sound, this will give sufficient time for people to enter and leave safely. A photo eye or infra-red system needs to be incorporated into the door mechanism, which reactivates the opening system if someone is still entering or leaving the lift. Lift controls, including emergency buttons, should be between mm above floor level and at least 400mm from the front wall, to ensure that they are within reach of all lift users. Where this cannot be achieved, a horizontal control panel should be installed. Call buttons, inside and outside the lift, should be large, clear, illuminated and in a contrasting colour to their background. Controls should have raised or embossed numbers to enable independent use by partially sighted and blind people. A voice system should be installed, ideally in all lifts, to announce arrival at each floor; regulations require this where the lift serves more than three floors. Short rise platform lifts Ref 5, 27, 28, 29 Changes in level within a storey should be avoided if possible. If unavoidable, some means of access should still be provided. If there is insufficient space for a ramp at a suitable gradient, it may be possible to install a short rise platform lift adjacent to the stairs. Photo 11 Platform lifts should be easy to use independently, with automatic push button controls and clear instructions. There are a variety of platform lifts to suit different situations. All should have automatic or easy opening gates at the top and bottom. A minimum of 1.2m of space, preferably 1.5m, clear of the gates should be provided to ensure sufficient space is available to manoeuvre on and off the lift. Photo 12 Platform lifts in public buildings are restricted to a rise of up to 1.98m. This standard is being revised by the BSI to allow a rise of up to 4m in order to harmonise with ISO, European Standards and the European Machinery Directive. Ref 27 CAE - Wheelchair Stairlifts and Platform Lifts. Specifiers Handbook 2 Ref 28 BS Powered lifting platforms for use by disabled persons Ref 29 European Machinery Directive 89/392/EEC Photo 11 Wheelchair accessible platform lift adjacent to entrance steps at Bishopsgate Police Station Photo 12 Platform lift, with purpose designed enclosure provides basement access to a listed building in Cornhill. Photo 11 Photo 12 Page 17

23 Wheelchair stair lifts Ref 30 Stairlifts can be installed in public buildings, but only as a last resort where access cannot otherwise be achieved by lift or ramp. They are not ideal in public buildings because they usually require assistance, do not suit all types of wheelchairs, are slow in operation and liable to restrict pedestrian use of the staircase. They are more suited to their original purpose in private dwellings. Stairlifts can be wall or floor mounted and climb a variety of staircases, including straight and return stairs and spiral staircases, depending on the model. The combined seat and wheelchair platform stairlift is the most suitable. This allows wheelchair users to manoeuvre onto the stairlift without having to transfer from their chair onto a separate seat, avoiding assistance with carrying the wheelchair. Photo 13, 14 Wheelchair stairlifts fitted with a flip down seat and a handrail can be used by people with walking difficulties as well as wheelchair users. The platform can be folded up and stored at the top or bottom of the staircase, when not in use, and does not usually project more than 300mm into the stairway when stored. The minimum width for means of escape should not be reduced by the stairlift, when folded in its closed position. Handrails to both sides of the staircase should be maintained, despite the installation of a stairlift. A space of at least 1200 x 1200mm is required at the top and bottom of the stairs to enable a wheelchair user to easily manoeuvre on and off the platform. WC FACILITIES Ref 5, 25 Disabled people should not have to travel further than others to reach a WC. Accessible WCs should be readily available and located with, and not separate from, the main WC core. Part M of the Building Regulations requires accessible WCs on at least every other floor, with cumulative horizontal travel distance not more than 40m. Accessible cubicles can be integrated into male and female toilet blocks provided at least one unisex WC is located in the common part of the building, for example in the reception area. Ref 30 BS Specification for powered stairlifts. Photo 13 Photo 14 Photo 13 Wheelchair stairlift to Guildhall Old Library Photo 14 Wheelchair stairlift to the mezzanine level in Guildhall Library Page 18

24 A unisex facility is one that is entered independent of the male or female WCs. An exception is where all the WCs are approached through the same lobby. Negotiating successive lobbies can present difficulties for wheelchair users. Consideration should be given to using a corridor or lift lobby to serve the same purpose if appropriate, provided adequate privacy is ensured and the door does not open directly onto a room where food is being prepared. Wheelchair user cubicles A WC cubicle needs to be at least 1500 x 2000mm to be wheelchair accessible, with an outward opening door of no less than 850mm clear opening (1m doorset). It should be laid out and fitted as shown in Diagrams 12 and 13. If space permits, the WC cubicle should be larger than the minimum dimensions, to assist wheelchair users who have difficulty turning in confined spaces. Photo 15 Layouts must allow easy wheelchair manoeuvre for front, lateral, diagonal or backward transfer onto the WC. Facilities for washing and drying hands should be within easy reach of the WC, so that they can be used prior to transferring back into the wheelchair. Where space is limited, an inward opening door can be used, provided the cubicle layout is enlarged to at least 2675 x 1500mm, with a minimum of 700 x 1100mm of wheelchair manoeuvring space, clear of any fittings and the door swing. In multi-storey buildings, where more than one accessible WC is provided, the opportunity should be taken to hand the layouts, providing a choice of either left handed or right handed transfer from a wheelchair onto the WC. Care should be taken to ensure that paper, towel and soap dispensers are located within reach of the WC while not obstructing the use of any handrail or projecting into manoeuvring space. Cubicle for people with walking difficulties Ref 5 On floors with no lift or other access for wheelchair users, consideration should be given to providing cubicles suitable for people with walking difficulties. Grab rails both sides of the WC assist people who need support. An outward opening door is required to provide manoeuvring space within the cubicle for stick and crutch users. 600 Support rails of 35mm diameter Alarm pull cord Light switch pull cord Photo 15 Wheelchair accessible cubicle showing the layout of fittings Door pull Diagram12 Wheelchair accessible cubicle showing the height of fittings Photo 15 Diagram 12 Page 19

25 Tips for cubicle design the toilet flush must be located beside the hinged drop-down rail basin taps must be located nearest to the WC and ideally should be a mixer tap with a lever handle alarm cords in the cubicle must extend down to a low level good use of colour contrast within the cubicle eg. fittings contrasting with wall tiles, can assist visually impaired people who may prefer to use the wheelchair accessible WC use light door springs as heavy closers make access difficult for all door locks should be large and easy to use for people with limited dexterity a full length mirror will suit all users a toilet paper dispenser which only requires one hand is easier to use where hand driers are installed, paper towels should be available as an alternative for people with reduced sensation hot pipes within reach should be lagged to avoid scalding the height of the toilet seat should always be around 475mm above floor level where unisex WCs are located in busy parts of the building, such as reception areas, lobbies or screening should be provided to ensure privacy Many disabled people obtain access to what may appear to be an inaccessible building, so it is not unreasonable to provide a fully wheelchair accessible WC in a building which does not have full lift or stairlift access. Changing rooms and showers Sports and health clubs should be designed to be fully accessible. In particular, changing rooms and showers need to be safe and convenient to use. Suitably designed grabrails and folddown seats or benches should be fitted in showers and changing rooms. Floor surfaces should be non-slip and laid to fall to a drain; raised shower trays should not be installed. Photo 16 A combined shower and WC cubicle is not considered suitable as use of the WC is denied to anyone else while the shower is occupied. Furthermore, shower floor surfaces and grabrails become wet and therefore hazardous to use when transferring from the wheelchair. Changing rooms in clothes shops need to provide enough manoeuvring space for wheelchair users and should always ensure privacy. This can be achieved by the use of curtains or moveable partitioning. Ideally there should be a choice of individual changing rooms or communal changing rooms Flush lever Hinged support rail 800 Full length mirror 2000 Outward opening door 1000 Diagram13 Plan of wheelchair accessible cubicle Photo 16 Wheel-in shower cubicle with adjustable seat incorporating support rails Diagram 13 Photo 16 Page 20

26 OTHER FEATURES SIGNAGE AND COMMUNICATIONS Signs Ref 31, 32 Information is vital for everyone, particularly for disabled visitors. Signs, notices and maps help to orientate, locate and identify features and warn of hazards. The message must be clear, and continuous with direction signs well lit, easily read and understood. The identification of a shop unit, restaurant or wine bar should be clear. The name or street number of the property, and even its address, clearly displayed beside the main entrance assists everyone. Large lettering displayed on a colour contrasted background will be particularly helpful to partially sighted people. Signs to facilities such as lifts and toilets, the labelling of products or other written information should be clear and easy to read, using contrasting colours to distinguish lettering from its background. Tactile signs and the use of braille can help blind and partially sighted people, for example, positioned below signs on male/female WC doors. These signs should be located within reach i.e mm above floor level. The RNIB can give detailed advice on the use and design of signs, including tactile signs, to ensure full accessibility for visually impaired people. Symbols can greatly assist understanding and should be used to indicate specific facilities and routes. A wheelchair symbol on its own could mean the existence of a WC, a ramp or a lift. The symbol plus the word WC will make the message clear. Diagram 14 Access and facilities for disabled people should be accurately described in advertisements, brochures or other printed material. This should also be included in any marketing literature. Induction loops and infra-red systems Ref 33 People who use hearing aids with a T switch hearing aid can switch from M (microphone) to T (telecoil) and pick up the sound from an induction loop without interference from background noise. Sound is received through the hearing aid without distortion caused by bad acoustics or extraneous noise. Induction loop systems should be installed in meeting rooms, in large or noisy reception areas, or where the listener is separated from the speaker by a glass screen. This enables people who are hard of hearing to participate. Ref 31 RNIB - Clear Print Guidelines Ref 32 RNIB - Technical Bulletin No 24: Signs 1997 Ref 33 BS Audiofrequency induction loop systems International access symbol for routes and facilities giving full accessibility Parking for Orange badge holders Wheelchair accessible unisex toilet Diagram 14 Access pictograms in common use Facilities for blind or partially sighted people Diagram 14 World Federation of the Deaf sign to indicate facilities for deaf people Induction loop installed Photo17 Page 21 Photo 17 Reception desk with lowered section and induction loop

27 An induction loop consists of a cable which is laid around the room or along the counter, a microphone or other input source such as a TV, and an amplifier. The signal from a microphone or TV is passed through the amplifier which directs an electrical current through the cable. A magnetic field is then generated which is picked up by the hearing aid when it is switched to T. Photo 17 Care should be taken when installing loop systems, as hearing aids can pick up interference, for example from air conditioning units, negating the benefits of the loop. Fluorescent lighting also generates a magnetic field which is distracting to hearing aid users, and interferes with induction loops. Reception is most clear when spoken into a microphone directly in front of the speaker. In contrast, ceiling microphones are likely to pick up intrusive background sounds. An alternative is to use an infra-red system which radiates light waves across the room. Infra-red systems are often used in cinemas and theatres. The hearing impaired person must wear a personal receiver in order to convert the light back into sound. Some people may not feel comfortable wearing a personal receiver, and may prefer the discreet anonymity of using a loop. There are, however, staffing implications if receivers have to be distributed before and at the end of meetings. Many people who are hearing impaired do not use hearing aids, for example some older people. Therefore, consideration should be given to installing public address systems, where appropriate. Further guidance on the installation of induction loops and infra-red systems is available from the RNID. Acoustics Background noise in public areas can make communication difficult. Constant noises such as air conditioning units, lift motors or other electrical equipment can reduce the ability of visually and hearing impaired people to communicate effectively. Acoustic insulation or sound-absorbent materials, such as carpets, heavy curtains or screens, help reduce unwanted noises. Good acoustic measures, such as these, improve audible communications for visually impaired people. Telephones Ref 34 Public telephones are valued by people who have to call for a taxi. If telephones are provided, at least one should be no higher than 1.2m above floor level and should be fitted with an inductive coupler to assist hearing aid users. A support rail with an adjacent seat is recommended for at least one public telephone. Diagram 15 Text telephones, such as minicoms, enable people with severe hearing impairments to make use of telephones. Minicoms are essential where a public information or telephone booking service is to be fully accessible. Sign to indicate loop Diagram mm max. height of buttons and coin slot Support rail and seat recommended Ref 34 British Telecom - The BT Guide for Disabled People 1998/99 Diagram 15 Public telephone with drop-down seat and support rail Page 22

28 Information and displays Ref 31, 32 Information on display, such as pamphlets and magazines, needs to be within reach of a wheelchair user, and should also be made available on tape, in large print or in Braille. Menus or other information displayed in windows should be clearly visible to all. Similarly, displays and information panels in museums, art galleries and other visitor attractions, should be at a suitable height for all visitors including children, small people and wheelchair users. The comfortable eye level range of a wheelchair user is between mm above floor level when looking from a distance of 1m. Exhibits above or below this level should be inclined towards the viewer. Lighting Ref 25, 35 Many people who are visually impaired have some limited residual sight. Well planned lighting, use of colour and contrast, careful and considered selection of graphics, pattern and texture can all enhance the value of residual sight. Moderate contrasts in lighting can help to differentiate between spaces and act as a subtle guide to location, such as in corridors, exhibition or reception areas. Excessive glare and dazzle can eliminate any remaining vision and should be avoided. People with hearing impairments will also benefit from these considerations because they rely on being able to communicate visually. It is necessary to concentrate on the gesture and expression of others in conversation to make the best use of residual hearing. This can be minimised by gradual adjustment, using intermediate lighting levels in the entrance or lobby areas. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES Cash dispenser machines Cash dispenser machines both inside and outside buildings should be suitable for use by disabled people. Controls need to be within reach both horizontally and vertically, and need to be legible. The space in front of the machine should be kept clear of obstacles and be level. The card slot and dispenser should be no higher than 1.3m, preferably 1.2m maximum. Cash machines installed within building entrances must have sufficient manoeuvring space and level access around them. A recessed area below the machine creates space for wheelchair footplates, but the dispenser should not project into a pathway and thus become an obstacle. Photo 18 The display panel needs to be angled so that it is easily seen and usable from a wheelchair. Push buttons which are well spaced, colour contrasted and with tactile or raised numbers can assist partially sighted people. Ref 35 JMU Building and Interior Environmental Technical Bulletin - Lighting 1998 Careful choice of background will avoid distracting anyone trying to lip read. For the same reason, reflective glass screens or backlighting should be avoided. Sudden changes in light levels can be difficult to adjust to, for example, moving from bright sunshine to a dim interior. Photo 18 Page 23 Photo 18 Cash dispenser with recess, showing preferred height of control panel

29 Counters Ref 25 The height of reception desks, bars and self-service counters should, at least in part, be no higher than 800mm with a 400mm leg and footplate space under both sides. Diagram 16 A handrail or other support along a counter or bar is a helpful feature. Sufficient manoeuvring space should be provided between checkouts, counters and queue control barriers. Barriers installed to control queues should be stable and preferably fixed to the ground. They should not be a hazard to partially sighted people. Seating and tables Ref 25 Seating is of considerable benefit to many people, particularly in wine bars and sandwich bars where it is often assumed that most customers prefer to stand. Some seating should be unfixed from the floor to allow a wheelchair user to sit at a table. Seating should be generously provided but should be carefully sited. A variety of seating and tables will provide flexibility and accommodate a range of different needs. Some seating should have backrests with armrests on both sides, designed to give balanced support when getting up. Diagram 17 Tables should be designed to ensure their height allows a wheelchair user s legs underneath. Pedestal tables have more wheelchair manoeuvring space than small corner legged tables. 1m space in front of a table will allow an easy approach for a wheelchair user. Spectator and audience seating Ref 5 In cinemas, theatres, lecture halls and meeting rooms, wheelchair users should be able to sit in a position with a clear view of the event, with a space of 900 x 1400mm sufficient to manoeuvre easily. The seating positions in auditoria should ensure that wheelchair users are not segregated from non-disabled companions. In addition, a choice of location in the auditorium is desirable with the option of sitting next to another wheelchair user or a non - disabled companion. Aisle seats should be available for people who need additional leg room or for a guide dog, without creating a hazard for other users or blocking an escape route. Upstand helpful especially at outer edges Armrest provides support when getting up 600 max 400min max 100 Avoid sharp edges Diagram 16 Dimensional details of counter Refer also to Photo 10, p min 700 preferred Exposed angles well rounded 400 min 500 max Diagram 17 Seat with armrest to provide support, showing ideal dimensions Diagram 16 Diagram 17 Page 24

30 MEANS OF ESCAPE Management plans Ref 36 It is essential to consider means of escape for disabled people as well as access. It may not always be possible to provide an independent means of escape for disabled people, but good management will ensure suitable procedures are planned for emergencies. British Standard 5588 Part 8 provides guidance on measures to enable the safe evacuation of disabled people in the event of a fire. This advice should be incorporated into the design of both new and existing buildings. Although some existing buildings will not comply fully with the Code of Practice, BSI make it clear that this should not be used as grounds for excluding disabled people. The appendix to this code of practice provides guidance to managing escape, an essential part of which is an emergency evacuation strategy for disabled people. Some disabled people will be able to evacuate the premises independently along with all other building users. Others may need to be assisted down the stairs, or prefer to wait in an allocated refuge until they can be assisted. Evacuation equipment It may be necessary, in some situations, to assist people down a staircase using an emergency carrying chair. Photo 19 Staff expected to assist in evacuating disabled people must be fully trained in the procedures and have had disability awareness training. Procedures adopted should avoid manual handling as far as is reasonably practicable. Photo 20 Safety refuges Ref 36 A fire-resisting refuge accessible to wheelchair users, a minimum size of 900 x 1400mm, should be provided for each protected stairway on every storey. With a protected route to the exit, it will provide a temporary safe place for disabled people to await assistance for evacuation. The safety refuge should not reduce the width of the escape route or obstruct the flow of people escaping. A communication link to a central control point, such as a telephone, intercom or bell should be available in the refuge area for the waiting person to be able to call for assistance. Staircases Ref 5, 22 It may be necessary to use a staircase for escape. Escape stairs should therefore have continuous handrails on both sides, colour contrasted to the adjacent walls. Ref 36 BS 5588 Part 8: Code of practice for means of escape for disabled people Photo 19 Photo 20 Photo 19 A typical evacuation chair, folded to wall hung position Photo 20 Evacuation chair in use Page 25

31 The stair nosings should be colour contrasted. Tactile floor surfaces to indicate the top and bottom of the stairs are helpful. Lifts for evacuation Ref 36 Suitably designed lifts can reduce the need to evacuate disabled people down a stairway. Fire fighting lifts can be used to evacuate disabled people prior to the arrival of the fire service, but liaison with the fire authority to co-ordinate procedures is essential. A passenger lift with structural fire protection, a duplicated power supply and a switch enabling authorised persons to take control, is also an acceptable alternative means of evacuation. A communication system will ensure that staff designated to operate the evacuation lift can rapidly identify the location of a person awaiting assistance. Visual as well as audible alarm signals may be needed to ensure any hearing impaired people have been alerted to the need to evacuate. Evacuation procedures Ref 37 Organisations should consult with disabled employees and ask them to assist in devising their own escape plans. These can then be integrated into the existing egress policy for the whole building. Further advice is contained in a document entitled Personal Emergency Egress Plans. This includes an emergency egress questionnaire which can help to provide appropriate information to match the characteristics of buildings to the needs of individual disabled employees. Safety instructions Consideration should also be given to establishing contact with disabled visitors who may need assistance; devising a means of locating disabled visitors when the alarm is sounded; designating people to give assistance; and providing training and practice for those designated to give assistance. One method of ensuring that disabled visitors are aware of the emergency egress plan is to give each visitor a card on arrival which details the fire drill routine and outlines the action to be taken in an emergency. A simple diagram will show the location of escape routes, refuges, stairs and lifts. Key features such as safety refuges, should be clearly signed. Diagram 18 Ref 37 NOG Personal Emergency Egress Plans (PEEPS) Diagram 18 Clear signage of safety refuges is essential Diagram 18 Diagram 19 Page 26 Diagram 19 Dimensions of typical wheelchair; powered wheelchairs are usually larger

32 FURTHER INFORMATION The Corporation s Access Officer can give further design advice, appraise proposals, examine plans for accessibility, undertake initial Access Audits of existing buildings and organise visits by members of the City of London Access Group. The City of London Access Group is a group of disabled people who live, work in, or are connected to the City, and who work hard on a voluntary basis to promote a more accessible City. Many members of the group are happy to meet with architects and designers, visit buildings and examine proposals and plans. Their personal experience of physical or sensory impairments informs the decisions made by designers, ensuring schemes are more easily used by disabled people. To contact the Chairman of the City of London Access Group, telephone the Access Officer. Access The Access Officer Corporation of London Milton Court, Moor Lane London EC2Y 9BL Telephone: /1933 Fax: Text phone: Planning The City Planning Officer Corporation of London PO Box 270, Guildhall London EC2P 2EJ Telephone: Fax: Building Control The District Surveyor Corporation of London Clements House Gresham Street London EC2P 2EP Telephone: Fax: Construction and Management of Public Highways: The Director of Technical Services Corporation of London P.O. Box 270, Guildhall London EC2P 2EJ Telephone: Fax: Environmental Health The Director of Environmental Services Corporation of London PO Box 270, Guildhall London EC2P 2EJ Telephone: or 1585 Fax: USEFUL ADDRESSES Further Information Information in this Guide is drawn from the following organisations. Centre for Accessible Environments Nutmeg House 60 Gainsford Street London SE1 2NY Telephone: Fax: The Centre for Accessible Environments (CAE), is a national voluntary organisation concerned with improving the design of the built environment to accommodate the needs of all users, including elderly and disabled people. Access Committee for England 12 City Forum, 250 City Road London EC11V 8AF Telephone: Fax: The Access Committee for England (ACE) has produced a number of useful policy documents and promotes the provision of accessible environments that will enable disabled people to achieve their full potential in life without unnecessary hindrances. The Committee consists of users, providers, regulators and access officers. Joint Mobility Unit 224 Great Portland Street London W1N 6AA Telephone: / Fax: / The JMU is jointly funded by the Royal National Institute for the Blind and the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and gives advice on the design of buildings to meet the needs of visually impaired people. National Wheelchair Housing Association Group Imperial Buildings 68 Victoria Road Horley, Surrey RH6 7PZ NATWHAG publishes guidance on housing accommodation specifically designed for wheelchair users. Joseph Rowntree Foundation The Homestead, 40 Water End York Y03 6LP JRF has developed the Lifetime Homes Standards. Research has shown that these are welcomed by occupiers, and can be introduced into most developments, at little extra cost when part of the original design. Page 27

33 Appendix 1 - Lifetime Homes Standards Access 1 Where car-parking is adjacent to the home, it should be capable of enlargement to 3300mm width. 2 The distance from the car-parking space to the home should be kept to a minimum and should be level or gently sloping. 3 The approach to all entrances should be level or gently sloping. (Gradients for paths should be the same as for public buildings in the Building Regulations). 4 All entrances should be illuminated and have level access over the threshold, the main entrance should be covered. 5 Where homes are reached by a lift, it should be wheelchair accessible. Inside the home 6 The width of doorways and hallways should accord with the Access Committee for England s standards. 7 There should be space for the turning of wheelchairs in kitchens, dining areas and sitting rooms and adequate circulation space for wheelchair users elsewhere. 8 The sitting room (or family room) should be at entrance level. 9 In houses of two or more storeys, there should be space on the ground floor that can be used as a convenient bed space. 10 There should be a downstairs toilet which should be wheelchair accessible, with drainage and service provision enabling a shower to be fitted at any time. 11 Walls in bathrooms and toilets should be capable of taking adaptations, ie. handrails. 12 The design should incorporate provision for a future stairlift and a suitably identified space for potential installation of a house lift (through-the-floor lift) from the ground to the first floor, for example to a bedroom next to the bathroom. 13 The bath/bedroom ceiling should be strong enough, or adaptable to support a hoist at a later date. Within the bath/bedroom wall, provision should be made for a future floor to ceiling door, to connect both rooms with a hoist. 14 The bathroom layout should be designed to incorporate ease of access - probably from a side approach - to the bath and WC. The wash basins should also be accessible. Fixtures & Fittings 15 Living room window glazing should begin at 800mm or lower, and windows should be easy to open/operate. 16 Switches, sockets and service controls should be at a height useable by all (i.e. between mm from the floor). Appendices Appendix 2 - ACE Housing Standards Essential Criteria 1 Entrances to dwellings should, wherever possible, have a level or gently sloping approach. 2 Where dwellings (usually flats) are accessed by lifts, the lifts should be accessible to wheelchair users. 3 Entrances to dwellings should have flush thresholds, and a minimum clear opening door width of 800mm. 4 Internal doorsets should have a minimum clear opening width of 750mm. 5 Circulation spaces at entrance level, (e.g. halls and corridors) should have a minimum width of 900mm, with space for wheelchair users to turn into rooms and corridors. 6 There should be a WC and a living room at entrance level. 7 Entrance level WCs should be accessible for wheelchair users with sufficient mobility to make either a front, diagonal or lateral transfer to the WC unaided. 8 For dwellings on more than one storey or level, a staircase should be designed to allow for possible future installation of a stairlift. Desirable Features 1 Door and window ironmongery which is convenient to operate and easily accessible (lever door handles 1040mm above floor level are recommended). 2 Low windows (max. cill height 750mm), with eye-level view for a seated person. 3 Ventilators with easily reached controls. 4 Electrical switches at waist height (1m) and electrical sockets not less than 450mm from the floor. An electrical socket convenient for possible stairlift installation. 5 Heater controls, meters, fuseboxes and water stopcocks within easy reach. 6 Space for platform or seat at head end of bath. Capstan-headed tap or lever fittings for basin, bath, etc. Space for manoeuvre around bathroom fixtures. 7 Thermo-controlled taps and radiators. 8 Easy access to waste disposal and clothes drying facilities. 9 Good illumination outside entrance doors. Optional Features 1 Non-slip floor surfaces 2 Height adaptable worktops 3 Where a car-port or garage is within the curtilege of the dwelling, there is undercover access from car-parking space to entrance. 4 Increased space standards 5 Allowance for future lift installation Appendix 1 The Joseph Rowntree Foundation Lifetime Homes Standards Appendix 2 Access Committee for England Criteria for Accessible General Housing These should be included in all new housing proposals and alterations to existing buildings. The standards will not necessarily produce a home suitable for people with severe impairments but are suitable for visiting wheelchair users. Page 28

34 Legislation & Regulations Ref 1 Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 Ref 2 Disabled Persons Act 1981 Ref 3 Town and Country Planning Act 1990 Ref 4 PPG 1 Planning Policy Guidance Note: General Policies and Principles DoE 1997 Ref 5 Building Regulations 1991 Approved Document M 1992 Edition Ref 6 Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 Ref 7 Disability Discrimination Act 1995 Unitary Development Plan Ref 8 UDP Policy STRAT 15 and UDP Policy SOC 3 Ref 9 UDP Policy TRANS 26 Ref 10 UDP Policy HOUS 8 Housing Ref 11 ACE Access Committee for England -Criteria for Accessible General Housing 1992 Ref 12 NATWHAG - Wheelchair Housing Design Guide 1997 Tourism & Heritage Ref 13 English Tourist Board - Tourism For All - Providing Accessible Accommodation 1990 Ref 14 English Tourist Board - Tourism For All - Providing Accessible Visitor Attractions 1994 Ref 15 Planning and the Historic Environment PPG Ref 16 English Heritage: -Easy Access to Historic Properties 1995 Design Guidance Ref 17 Access Committee for England - A Guide to the Development of Effective Access Action Plans 1997 Ref 18 Department of Transport Traffic Advisory Leaflet 5/95: Parking for Disabled People Ref 19 Department of the Environment Transport and the Regions - Guidance on the Use of Tactile Paving Surfaces 1997 Ref 20 Royal National Institute for the Blind - Building Sight: A Handbook of Building and Interior Design Solutions - to include the needs of visually impaired people 1995 Ref 21 Institution of Highways and Transportation - Guidelines for Reducing Mobility Handicaps 1991 Ref 22 Building Regulations Part K Protection from falling, collision and impact edition Ref 23 BS Code of Practice for safety at powered doors for pedestrian use. Ref 24 Centre for Accessible Environments Automatic Door Controls. Specifiers Handbook 3 Ref 25 Centre for Accessible Environments - Designing for Accessibility An Introductory Guide 1994 Ref 26 Building Regulations Part N Glazing - safety in relation to impact, opening and cleaning edition References Ref 27 Centre for Accessible Environments - Wheelchair Stairlifts and Platform Lifts. Specifiers Handbook 2 Ref 28 BS Powered lifting platforms for use by disabled persons Ref 29 European Machinery Directive 89/392/EEC Ref 30 BS Specification for powered stairlifts. Ref 31 Royal National Institute for the Blind - Clear Print Guidelines Ref 32 Royal National Institute for the Blind - Technical Bulletin No 24: Signs (June 1997) Ref 33 BS Audio-frequency induction loop systems Ref 34 British Telecom - The BT Guide for Disabled People 1998/99 Ref 35 JMU - Building and Interior Environmental Technical Bulletin - Lighting 1998 Ref 36 BS 5588 Part 8: Code of practice for means of escape for disabled people Ref 37 Northern Officer Group - Personal Emergency Egress Plans (PEEPS) 1993 (Available from the Centre for Accessible Environments) Page 29

35 The Corporation of London promotes the creation of an environment which is accessible to all. Designers, architects, surveyors and developers concerned with building developments in the City are encouraged to adopt the concept of inclusive design whereby the access needs of disabled people are fully integrated. DESIGNING AN ACCESSIBLE CITY is available on request in Braille, large print or tape.