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Access Audit Reportof
OPEN SCHOOL KARALYA SHIKSHA SANKUL
PARISAR JAIPUR.
under
Accessible India Campaign Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India
By:
‘Svayam’ – Global Centre for Inclusive Environments
Jindal Centre, 12, Bhikaiji Cama Place
New Delhi- 110066
www.svayam.com
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
2
Building Summary
OPEN SCHOOL KARALYA SHIKSHA SANKUL PARISAR JAIPUR.
Building Type:School
Building Use:Educational
Date of Audit: 18 May, 2016
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”3
Audit Team Members: Ar.Chandan Malik, Er.Vipin Saini, Audt.Amit Pahwa, Ashish Sharma
Building Summary
Building Overview:
PHYSICAL ACCESSIBILITY PRIORITY FOR
CREATING
ACCESS
SYMBOLS
1. PARKING HIGH
2. ALIGHTING LOW
3. ACCESSIBLE ROUTE LOW
4. ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCE HIGH
5. RECEPTION & LOBBY MODERATE
6. STAIRS MODERATE
7. RAMP HIGH
8. HANDRAIL MODERATE
9. LIFT HIGH
10. CORRIDORS MODERATE
11. DOORS & DOORWAYS LOW
12. ACCESSIBLE TOILET HIGHEST
13. CAFETERIA MODERATE
14. DRINKING WATER
FACILITY
HIGH
15. SIGNAGE HIGHEST
16. EMERGENCY EVACUATION MODERATE 4
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
Moderate
4. Accessible and
Acceptable - Access Code
Compliant
Low
5. Accepted as a Best
Practice in Accessibility
Lowest
5
Index
S. No. Subject
1. Preface
2. Approach and Main Gate
3. Parking
4. Entrance to the Building
5. Reception
6. Staircase
7. Lift
8. Cafeteria
9. Corridors
10. Toilets
11 Emergency Evacuation
12. Information & Communication
13. Evaluation of the service
14. Standard I (Design Guidelines for tactile paving)
15. Standard II (Signage specifications)
16. Standard III (Accessible Parking specifications)
17. Standard IV (Ramp and Handrail specifications)
18. Standard V (Handrails for ramps & stairs)
19. Standard VI (Reception Counter specifications)
20. Standard VII (Staircase Specifications)
21. Standard VIII (Accessible Lift specifications)
22. Standard IX (Accessible Toilet specifications)
23. Standard X (Emergency/Disaster Preparedness)
24. Disclaimer6
External Environment – Approach & Main
Gate
Observations:
• The building is easily approachable as it is located on the main road.
• The signage is not prominent from the approach road to indicate the
building.
• There is no route map/lay out plan of the building.
• There is no tactile orientation for visually impaired visitors.
7
External Environment – Approach & Main
Gate
Suggestions:
� Provide Tactile pathways for persons with vision impairment from
entrance leading to the main building gates . (Ref. Standard I for
specifications)
� A signage with big fonts and good colour contrast is recommended.
(for signage specs, refer Standard II).
� Avoid the parking of cars in front of building there should be sign
board to indicate no parking area.
No
Parking
8
Tactile should be there to main gate
External Environment - Parking
Observations:
• There are no reserved parking visitors with disabilities within the building premises.
• There was no dedicated parking area for visitors cars was parked around the building and opposite the building.
• There was separate parking area for two wheeler parking but signage was not there.
• Cars have been parked in the pathway due to lack of dedicated car parking facility.
• Signage indicating parking facility is missing.
Parked cars opposite the building
Parked cars in the path way No signage 9
External Environment - Parking
Suggestions:
� Proper signage should be there for parking.
� Vehicles should not be park around the building or in front of
building.
� Consider creating earmarked parking spaces (both for cars and two
wheelers) for persons with disabilities with proper signage and aisle
space.
Designate parking area with signage
Place No Parking sign to remove
hindrance at entrance Place signage
Parking
ParkingNo
Parking
10
External Environment - Parking
Suggestions:
� Accessible parking can be install at close to common parking.
� For parking specifications, refer Standard III.
Provision for Accessible Parking11
Internal Environment - Entrance
Observations:
• Entrance to the building has been made accessible by a ramp adjacent
to the flight of steps.
12
Building name signboard is not there
Building map is missing
Internal Environment - Entrance
Observations:
• The ramp surface is ribbed, posing not only a major safety hazard but
also obstructs smooth mobility for wheelchair users.
• The ramp gradient is steep (1:4)and doesn’t allow independent access.
• The handrails have been provided at two levels.
• There are no tactile paving at the beginning and end of the ramp for
the benefit of visually impaired visitors.
• There are nine steps at the entrance, however, there is no marking on
the edge of the steps for the benefit of people with visual
impairments.
• There are no handrails at either side of the steps.
• Tactile warning blocks in the beginning and towards the end of the
staircase are missing.
13
Internal Environment - Entrance
Suggestions:
• Entrance to the building has been made accessible by a ramp adjacent
to the flight of steps.
14
Building name signboard could be there
Building map could be install
there just before the entry
Internal Environment - Entrance
Observations:
No edge marking on steps
No Handrails
Steeper ramp can’t allow
Independent access
15
Internal Environment - Entrance
Suggestions:
� Consider improving the gradient of the ramp to at least 1:15 to allow
independent access. Refer Standard IV.
� 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.
� Stairs should me marked for visually impaired visitors.
Steps should be marked
16
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.
Internal Environment - Reception
Observations:
• There was space for reception but reception desk was temporary.
• The height of the reception table is 850 mm which is accessible for
wheelchair users.
• There was no signage of reception.
17
Internal Environment - Reception
Suggestions:
� There was enough space for reception so reception counter should
be permanent on the basis of Standard VI.
� Ensure display of proper signage with Braille to assist people with
vision impairments. For signage specifications, refer to Standard II.
18
Reception
Internal Environment - Staircase
Observations:
• There are flight of 8 stairs with a landing with 180 mm riser which is
quite high.
• Width was 1850 mm and 300 tread which is a good practice.
• Handrail exists only on one side and doesn’t continue on landing.
• There is no edge marking on the tread for the benefit of visually
impaired visitors.
• 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.
19
Riser is high
No edge strips on steps
Internal Environment - Staircase
Suggestions:
� It is advisable to have handrails on both sides and at two levels.
� The handrails of 35-45 mm diameter is preferred and should have
minimum clearance of 40-50 mm from the wall.
� Stairs should me marked for visually impaired visitors.
20
Internal Environment - Lift
Observations:
• Lift was not there right now but shaft for lift is available.
Suggestions:
• Provision for lift.
Provision for Lift
21
Internal Environment - Cafeteria
Observations:
• Cafeteria inside the campus was in block 2 Main Building of Shiksha
Sankul School which has a stepped entrance making it inconvenient
for wheelchair users.
• Entry to the cafeteria was two step up with 1400mm wide with
handle height of 900mm.
• Service counter and eating table has a height of 850mm and 700mm
respectively.
• Cafeteria washbasin was of height 800mm.
• Signage was missing every where.
No Ramp at entrance only stepped entry
22
Internal Environment – Cafeteria
Suggestions:
� Consider installing directional signage to guide people towards the
canteen and its facilities.
� Consider having at least one service counter at lower height of 750-
850mm with clear knee space of 350mm to cater the needs of
people with reduced mobility.
� There should be a ramp with handrails at entry gate.
HAND WASH
Service counter/Toilets
23
Internal Environment - Corridors
Observations:
• The corridors were wide 2400 and provided wheelchair
maneuvering facility.
• There were no protruding objects or barriers in the corridor, which
is a good practice.
• The floor surface is slip resistant and non- reflective.
• Lighting is very low that is not good.
• No directional signage in corridor describe the near by facilities in
building.
24
Lighting is low every where in corridors No directional sign available
Internal Environment - Corridors
Suggestions:
� Corridors should be provided with seating facility for visitors.
� Consider installing sufficient and uniformly distributed lighting in the
corridors.
� Ensure proper signage with braille markings to assist people with
vision impairments.
� Provide handrails in corridors if possible.
FIRE EXIT
TOILEST/EXIT
25
Provide handrails and appropriate signage in corridors
Internal Environment - Toilets
Observations:
• There is no accessible toilet unit for people with disability.
• The urinal height 750mm.
• The washbasin is at a height of 800 mm making it quite difficult for
wheelchair users.
• Mirror was there that is good practice.
26
Internal Environment - Toilets
Observations:
• There are separate toilets for males and females.
• The signage is inadequate and is not legible.
• The door width is 800 mm making it difficult for ambulant visitors and
wheelchair users.
• The toilets are not maintained properly and hygiene conditions are
poor.
Temporary Signage
27
Narrow width not accessible
for wheel chair user
Internal Environment - Toilets
Suggestions:
� The existing toilet door width needs to be widened to 900 mm to allow at least ambulant disabled visitor to use the facility.
� Provide adequate directional signage leading to accessible public toilet unit.
� Pictorial symbols should be used wherever possible. They are useful for visually impaired people and people with learning difficulties.
� Provide a separate toilets for disabled persons as referred Standards VII.
� Level of washbasin should be down so they can accessible for all.
28
Sign should be adequate
Better if they are Pictorial
Internal Environment: Emergency
Evacuation
Observations:
• Currently, there is only one fire exit for the entire building.
• Fire extinguisher instrument was present
• There is no emergency exit /signage indicating the emergency exit for
those with disabilities or have mobility problems.
• There are no refuge areas earmarked for persons with disabilities. In
fact, there is no declared evacuation plan for disabled people.
• The escape route is not clear and is encroached with two wheelers
parked randomly.
FIRE EXIT
29
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
30
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
31
Standards
32
Standards
Standard No. Contents
Standard I Design Guidelines for Tactile Paving
Standard II Specifications : Signage
Standard III Accessible Parking
Standard IV Ramp Designs and Specifications
Standard V Handrails for ramps and stairs
Standard VI Reception Counters
Standard VII Staircase Specifications
Standard VIII Accessible Lifts
Standard IX Accessible Toilet Specifications
Standard X Emergency/Disaster Preparedness
33
Standard 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 34
Specifications: Placement of Tactile Paving
Tactile paving on pathways, turns
and intersections
Tactile paving on stairs and
crosswalks
35
Standard II
Specifications: Signage
General• Signage includes direction signs, signs of locality, street names and numbering,
information signs, etc. The main purpose of signage is to provide clear designationof places, warning and routing information. Symbols should be displayed at variousfacilities for people with disabilities such as lifts, entrances, telephone booths,toilets, car parks and the like. The symbol of access should be permanently andconspicuously displayed to indicate the location of various facilities in the building.
• All types of signs should be visible, clear, simple, easy to read and understand,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,they should 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 worthconsidering 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)
36
- 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.
This image cannot currently be displayed.
Directional signage with colour contrast
37
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
38
Signage-Some examples
with tactile/Braille
Pictorial signage with tactile and Braille information
39
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
40
Standard 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 41
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.
Standard IV
42
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.
43
Standard 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.
44
Fig. Two level handrails that
provide continuous hold to users.
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.
45
Standard – 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
46
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 MapTactile 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.
47
Standard 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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Standard 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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Standard VIIIAccessible Toilets Specifications & Designs
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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 Toilets
10. 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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Standard 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.
• Currently, there is no good emergency exit /signage indicating the emergency exit for those with disabilities or have mobility problems.
• There is no Fire Action signage informing residents/visitors / staff about what to do in case of an emergency.
• There are no refuge areas earmarked for persons with disabilities/ elderly persons. In fact, there is no declared evacuation plan for the mobility impaired people.
� 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.
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Disclaimer
• Although we have offered the best advice available to us atthe time of compiling this audit report, please be advised thatdue to the ongoing development of legislation in this area, allcompanies and organizations should seek continuing advice toensure that their services and facilities remain compliant withtheir statutory obligations.
• It is important that professionals with accessibility experiencebe involved in all stages of the design, construction,renovation and refurbishment process. Svayam can not acceptany responsibility for loss occasioned by reason of non-compliance with the requirements of relevantlegislation/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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