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By Penny Knudson,
Occupational Therapist, Hills Therapy Services
For a person with limited mobility, vision or hearing, the physical environment can either facilitate or limit their independence. A barrier free environment will allow a person with a disability to live more independently within their own home as well as access public buildings and participate in community activities. Barrier free design assists not only those with disabilities, but also the elderly and even parents with children in strollers. Accessibility should be considered in both public and residential buildings.
When we consider access, we are looking at four main areas:
Another important consideration, particularly in public buildings is dignity (ie are accessible entrance ways and toilets appropriately positioned or is the person with a disability expected to use a back entrance to the building or perhaps a service lift, do they need to travel much further to reach the toilet, etc).
The Building Code of Australia has legislated minimum standards for access into new public buildings, based on AS 1428.1. These standards are designed to suit the needs of 80% of those with disabilities affected by each design feature. This means that 20% of people with disabilities may still find the feature provides a barrier to access.
AS1428 parts 2,3 and 4 provide enhanced standards. These are not covered under legislation, but will assist in designing and selecting appropriate buildings.
When considering access for people with disabilities, there are some key areas to consider.
How do people get from the road or their cars to the entrance way - is it covered, flat and even? Ramps should have a maximum gradient of 1.14, with a landing every 9m. Walkways and ramps should be a minimum of 1000mm wide. Are the entrance ways accessible? Are there stairs or lips on the doorways. Door openings should be 800mm. There needs to be sufficient circulation space to be able to open the door from a wheelchair. The amount required will depend on the style of door and the direction of approach. Hallways should be around 1200mm wide to allow sufficient circulation space to get into rooms.
Bathrooms should be large enough to have 1200mm circulation space in front of the toilet, and 1150 from the toilet to the wall. The position and type of flushing controls, taps, toilet paper dispensers, shelves and mirrors should be considered to allow independent use. The hand basin should have clear space underneath to allow a wheelchair user to wheel underneath it. Floors should have a non slip surface.
Light switches and power points should be positioned where a wheelchair user can reach them, at around 1m from the floor. Consideration should be given to using rocker or touch switches which are easier to activate. The kitchen should have benches which are around 850mm from the floor. Providing a continuous bench between preparation area, microwave and stove will assist with safe handling of hot food.
These are just a few of the access considerations in barrier free design. It is important to consult AS 1428 for more details. When designing or selecting a building for people with disabilities, it is recommended that you consult with an occupational therapist with experience in designing accessible buildings. They will be able to assess your plans or buildings and offer suggestions to improve access.
Hills Therapy Services has occupational therapists with training and experience in designing homes and other buildings for people with disabilities. For more information, go to the Hills Therapy Services Web Site.
A list of other occupational therapists able to provide access services is available from your state Occupational Therapy Association.
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