Facilities Accessibility Checklist Prepared by the Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments: March, 2014 This project is funded by the Government of Canada's Social Development Partnership Program
GAATES, 2014 0
On Thin Ice, 2014 On Thin Ice - Accessibility Checklist Prepared by the Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments How to Use This Guide The guide that is presented here is intended to be an assistive tool for individuals wishing to evaluate the degree to which buildings and facilities meet accessibility code requirements and standards. The checklists are based upon the technical specifications of the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) B651-10 Accessibility of the Built Environment Standard, and the National Building Code of Canada 2012 (NBC) as they relate to accessible design, with distinction made between them. Where possible, effort has been made to simplify and condense wording and information, so as to allow for a more practical and user-friendly checklist. Effort has also been made to provide suggestions relevant to the use and construction of accessible buildings and facilities in a northern context. The checklists are non-exhaustive, and adherence to them does not guarantee adherence to the requirements of the CSA or the NBC. Both the CSA and NBC requirements are included in the checklist for a number of reasons. In each of the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut, the majority of buildings and facilities are required to comply with the technical specifications of the NBC. However, buildings that are owned or leased, in whole or in part by Public Works Government Services Canada (PWGSC) and/or organizations that are subject to Federal regulation (I.E. Banks, telecommunications/broadcasters, interprovincial transportation service providers, etc.), are required to meet CSA requirements as per Treasury Board Policy on Management of Real Property (Guidelines). 1
GAATES, 2014 Furthermore, there are occasions where the two requirements will differ, and one or the other may provide a higher level of accessibility. Lastly, there are design elements that either one code or the other does not address at all, does not adequately address or does not provide sufficient guidance for organizations working towards the development of a fully inclusive and accessible built environment. About the On Thin Ice Project A key objective of this project is to protect lives and improve the security, well-being and inclusion of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable populations in emergency preparedness in the Arctic. In addition, the project seeks to build stronger relationships between persons with disabilities, First Responders, nongovernmental organizations (NGO s) community members, and improve accessibility of emergency management services and information. For more information about the On Thin Ice Project, please visit our website: www.onthiniceproject.ca. This project is funded by the Government of Canada s Social Development Partnerships Program and is being delivered by the Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments (GAATES). About GAATES The Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments (GAATES) is the leading international not-forprofit organization that brings together individuals and organizations dedicated to promoting accessibility of the built and virtual environments. GAATES was incorporated in Canada in 2007 by an international consortium dedicated to promoting accessibility worldwide. 2
On Thin Ice, 2014 GAATES mission is to promote the understanding and implementation of accessibility of the sustainable built, social and virtual environments, including architectural, infrastructural design, transportation systems, emergency preparedness protocols, habitat, and electronic information and communication technologies so that everyone, including people with disabilities and older persons are able to fully participate and contribute to society. For more information about GAATES, please visit our website: www.gaates.org. Special thanks to: Mr. Doug Thorseth Building Inspections Supervisor City of Whitehorse, YU Ms. Cindy Perry Building Inspector II Planning and Development City of Yellowknife, NWT 3
GAATES, 2014 Table of Contents How to Use This Guide... 1 Table of Figures... 5 Glossary of Terms... 6 Abbreviations... 8 Parking and Passenger Drop-off Locations... 9 Entrances... 15 Doors... 19 Access Routes... 27 Anthropometrics... 37 Signage... 45 Ramps... 51 Stairs... 57 Handrails... 61 Washrooms... 65 Showers... 77 Fire Safety... 81 Illumination... 87 Communications... 91 4
On Thin Ice, 2014 Table of Figures Figure 1: Parking with Shared Access Aisle... 14 Figure 2: Minumum Clear Area at Doors... 24 Figure 3: Manoeuvring Space at Doors (a)... 25 Figure 4: Manoeuvring Space at Doors (b)... 25 Figure 5: Door Clear Width and Accessible Signage... 26 Figure 6: Accessible Door Handles... 26 Figure 7: Clear Width on an Accessible Route... 32 Figure 8: Protruding Overhead Objects... 33 Figure 9: Clear Space and Obstructions... 33 Figure 10: Headroom and Protruding Overhead Objects... 34 Figure 11: Depth, Height and Clear Areas at a Counter, Table or Work Surface... 40 Figure 12: Clear Floor Area Required for Stationary Manual Wheelchair... 41 Figure 13: Clear Space Required for U-Turn of Manual... 41 Figure 14: Heights for Control Surfaces... 42 Figure 15: Ramp Design... 53 Figure 16: Stair and Handrail Design... 57 Figure 17: Handrail Design... 62 Figure 18: Washroom Design... 71 Figure 19: Accessible Washroom Stall... 72 Figure 20: Accessible Lavatory Design... 73 5
GAATES, 2014 Term Accessible Access Route Alternative (alternate) formats Anthropometrics Assistive Listening System (ALS) Auditory Barrier Braille Glossary of Terms Definition A site, building and facilities that can be approached, entered, and used by everyone, including persons with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities. A continuous unobstructed path (interior or exterior) connecting users to accessible elements, features, amenities and spaces. Typically, accessible routes include parking access aisles, pedestrian sidewalks and curb ramps, interior corridors, elevators and ramps. Information presented in a variety of formats accessible to people with sensory impairments (e.g. Braille, large print, on tape, or electronically). The study of objective measurable physical variables in humans, which impacts on architecture, industrial design and ergonomics. An Assistive Listening System is used to augment hearing ability for people in a variety of situations. A common usage is to aid people who are hard of hearing (HoH) by amplification and by providing better sound to noise ratio (SNR). The ALS may be used to help HoH people hear televisions and other audio devices and also to help people hear speech through public address (PA) systems such as in a community centre or at a school. The provision of information that is relating to the sense of hearing. Refers to anything that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in any aspect of society because of their disability. This can include a physical barrier or architectural barrier, an information or communication barrier, an attitudinal barrier, or a technological barrier. It can also include policies and practices that result in an obstacle or hardship (e.g. systemic barrier). A system of touch reading for the blind which employs embossed dots evenly arranged to represent numbers and letters. Literary Braille is comprised of two grades. Grade 1 Braille is full spelling and consists of the letters of the alphabet, punctuation, numbers, and a number of composite signs which are special to Braille. Grade 2 Braille consists of Grade 1 and 189 contractions and short form words, typically used for signage where space is limited. 6
On Thin Ice, 2014 Clear Floor Space Cross-Slope Decibel Entrance Egress Exit Forward Approach Glare Grade (also see running slope) Illumination Impairment Kilonewton (kn) Lux Obstruction The amount of unobstructed floor or ground space required to accommodate a single stationary user of a mobility device/aid, such as a wheelchair, scooter, cane or crutches. The slope that is perpendicular to the direction of travel. The decibel is a measurement unit used to express the intensity of acoustic sound. An access point into a building or portion of a building or facility. An entrance includes the approach, the vertical access leading to the entrance platform, the entrance door, landing area, vestibules (if provided), the entry door or gate, and the hardware of the entry door or gate. The principal or main entrance of a building or facility is the door through which most people typically enter (e.g. highest level of use). The action of going out of, leaving or evacuating a building or facility. The means of egress, including doorways, which lead from the floor area it serves to the exterior of the building or to a separate area of the building. Where a person will make use of a service counter, lavatory, drinking fountain, or any other usable element of the built environment, by positioning their body or mobility aid directly in front of and facing the element. Often refers to the light reflected from a surface, floor, window, or screen. Glare occurs when one part of the environment is much brighter than the general surrounding are, causing annoyance, discomfort or loss in visual performance. The slope parallel to the direction of travel that is calculated by dividing the vertical change in elevation by the horizontal distance covered. The combined amount and intensity of lighting provided, measured in footcandles or lux. A medical condition that leads to the inability to undertake activities of daily living independently or without the use of assistive devices, whether permanent or temporary. Unit for the measurement of force, such as pushing or pulling. Unit of luminance and luminous emittance, and used as a measure of light. An object or barrier that makes movement or access difficult or hazardous. 7
GAATES, 2014 Ramp Any access route with a running slope steeper than 1:20. Running Slope Tactile TeleTypewriter (TTY) The slope that is parallel to the direction of travel expressed as a ratio of rise to run. Opposite of cross-slope. Describes an object that can be perceived using the sense of touch, and typically provided for users with vision loss. TTY is the abbreviation for teletypewriter and refers to a means of electronic communication between Deaf people or Deaf and hearing people using interactive, text-based communication. Used in conjunction with a telephone, TTY also refers to devices known as text telephones and TDD s. Abbreviations CSA Canadian Standards Association db kn Lx m mm Decibel Kilonewton Lux (see definition) Metre Millimetre NBC National Building Code TTY Teletypewriter 8
On Thin Ice, 2014 Parking and Passenger Drop-off Locations Spaces designated for drivers with mobility impairments should be located on the shortest possible accessible route to an accessible building entrance. Accessible parking provisions apply to both outdoor and covered facilities. The location should be identified for drivers entering a parking lot or structure. Where the location of the designated spaces is not obvious, or is distant from the approach viewpoint, directional signs should be placed along the route leading to them. In separate parking structures or lots that do not serve a particular building, accessible parking spaces should be located on the shortest possible circulation route to an accessible pedestrian entrance of the parking facility. The accessible route should not require people to pass behind vehicles that may be backing out. Accessible parking spaces and adjacent access aisles should be regularly maintained, kept clear of debris and snow, and where possible, have overhead protection from the elements (e.g. snow, rain). *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 9
GAATES, 2014 Parking, Access Aisles & Drop-off Locations Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) Surfaces 1 Is the surface of designated parking spaces and their adjacent access aisles level, stable, firm, and slip resistant? 2 Does the surface of the access aisles of accessible parking have diagonal marking? Designated Spaces for Cars 3 Are designated spaces provided according to the following requirements: Total Min. # of Parking Accessible Space Spaces Up to 25 1 25-50 2 51-75 3 76-100 4 101-150 5 151-200 6 201-300 7 301-400 8 401-500 9 Over 500 2% of the total Action Required for Compliance 10
On Thin Ice, 2014 4 Are the designated accessible parking spaces at least 2400 mm wide? 5 Do the designated accessible parking spaces have an adjacent access aisle that is at least 1500 mm wide? Designated Spaces for Vans 6 Are the designated spaces for vans at least 2600 mm wide? 7 Do the designated spaces for vans have an adjacent side access aisle at least 2000 mm wide? 8 Do the designated spaces for vans have an adjacent rear access aisle at least 2000 mm wide? Parking Height Clearance 9 Is the parking height clearance at least 2750 mm along the vehicular access/egress routes? 10 Is the parking height at least 2750 mm at the designated spaces? Passenger pick-up and drop-off areas 11 At a passenger pick-up area, an access aisle shall be provided on the roadway that is: a) Parallel and adjacent to the pedestrian walkway; b) At least 1500 mm wide x 1600 mm long; and c) Separated from the walkway by a curb ramp or hazard indicator 1500 wide and 6000 long 11
GAATES, 2014 12 Is there a height clearance of at least 2750 mm at the passenger pick-up areas? 13 Is there a height clearance of at least 2750 mm along the vehicular access routes to such areas from site entrances? 14 Is the pick-up area located along the shortest accessible route? 15 Is the pick-up area visible from the building entrance? 16 Is the area covered? (recommended) Signage for Designated Parking 17 Are designated parking spaces identified by a vertically mounted sign? 18 Are the vertical signs at least 300 mm wide x 450 mm high? 19 Is the centre of the sign located 1500 2500 mm from the ground? 20 If the parking surface is paved, is the designated accessible parking space marked with the Intl. Symbol for Accessibility (wheelchair logo)? 21 Is the Intl. Symbol for Accessibility marked in the centre of the paved parking space? 22 Is the sign on the paved surface of the accessible parking space at least 1000 mm in length? At least 1500 12
On Thin Ice, 2014 23 Is the sign on the pavement painted in a colour strongly contrasting with the background pavement? 13
GAATES, 2014 Figure 1: Parking with a Shared Access Aisle 14
On Thin Ice, 2014 Entrances The main entrance to any public building or facility should always be built with accessibility in mind. A well-designed main entrance is one that is easy to find for everyone, including people with cognitive or vision impairments. The entrance should not be hidden but be designed to look like a main entrance. The best entrance to a building or facility is one that is approached by a smooth and wide accessible route. Where the approach to an entrance is not level, both steps and ramps should be provided as some people with agility impairments, and persons with mobility impairments who use mobility aids, will find it easier to use the ramp rather than the stairs. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 15
GAATES, 2014 Entrances # Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) General 1 Is the main or primary entrance to the building accessible? 2 Is the main-entrance accessible without any steps/stairs? 3 Including the main entrance, are at least 50% of entrances accessible? 4 Is the entrance served by an accessible route Action Required for Compliance 5 There shall not be a step that obstructs the passage for a wheelchair at the MAIN entrance. 6 If there is a lobby or waiting area as part of the entrance, is space provided for someone using a mobility aid, such as a wheelchair or walker? 7 Are accessible entrances equipped with guards at the edges of the landing where there is a vertical change greater than 600 mm? 16
On Thin Ice, 2014 8 Are the guards clearly visible (i.e. bright, coloured, tonally contrasted)? 9 If there is an entrance from an enclosed parking area, is it accessible? Doors (see Doors checklist) 10 Is the main entrance equipped with a power door operator? Front Entrance Reception Counter 11 Does the front desk have a lower accessible section? 730-860 Max. height of 860 12 See Anthropometrics checklist for floor and knee-space requirements. Signage 13 If an accessible entrance is not obvious, is there directional signage to notify potential users of the main entrance? 14 Is the international symbol of accessibility displayed at entrances? 17
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On Thin Ice, 2014 Doors Doors can pose a variety of challenges for persons with mobility, balance and agility impairments, but such challenges can be mitigated if steps are taken to ensure accessibility. Factors that affect accessibility include, the force required to open the door; the manoeuvring space near the door for users of mobility-aids; the height and positioning of door controls; and the availability of power door openers. The main entrance should be served by an accessible route. A small threshold of 6-13 mm is permitted, but the best practice recommendation is a level interior threshold with a maximum 6 mm for exterior thresholds. This specification varies due to geographic and weather considerations but high thresholds can cause a tripping hazard and may be difficult for people to wheel over. The provision of two doors in a series, with limited space between them, can cause a serious hazard as people who use wheelchairs may get caught between the doors. As a best practice, power door operators/automatic door openers should be provided at main entrance doors as some people are not able to open doors independently. Where there are automatic door controls, they should be located along the route of travel, clear of the door swing, be clearly visible, and mounted at a height between 800-1200 mm. This ensures that controls are accessible to everyone. Adequate manoeuvring space beside doors is important. An area of 1500 x 1500 mm is required in front of doors with 300 mm of clear space adjacent to the door on the push side and 600 mm on the pull side. This provides room to reach the door handle, open the door and locate a mobility device such as a walker or wheelchair outside of the swing of the door. The risk of people walking into glass doors has been recognized as an issue, therefore there should be markings at eye level to assist people with vision impairments and others to detect the presence of the glazed panels or solid glass doors. It is helpful to everyone if door hardware contrasts strongly with the background. In some cases canopies for weather protection may enable the reduction in the heights of thresholds. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 19
GAATES, 2014 Doors # Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) Clear Width 1 What is the clear width of the doorway? Door Hardware, Closing Time and Force 2 Can the door hardware be operated with one hand, without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist? 3 Door hardware is mounted at a height of? 4 For a door with a closer, does it close from 90 to 12 in a minimum of 3 seconds? 5 Exterior swinging door can be opened with less than 38N of force? 6 For an interior swinging door, can it be opened with less than 22N of force? Thresholds 7 The max. height of the threshold is 13 mm. 8 If the thresholds are over a height of 6mm, are they bevelled? 810 800 800-1200 1200 max. 3 sec. 3 sec. To a slope of 1:2 Bevelled Action Required for Compliance 20
On Thin Ice, 2014 Power Doors 9 Are there power door operators on the exterior doors into a building? 10 Does the power door take at least 3 or more seconds to swing open? 11 Does the door remain open for 5 seconds or more? Manoeuvring Space 12 Are there level manoeuvring areas on both sides of a door? 13 What is the minimum manoeuvring floor space - front approach - pull side? 14 What is the minimum manoeuvring floor space - latch side approach - push side? 1500 x 1500 1050 x 1500 15 What is the minimum manoeuvring floor space - hinge side approach - pull side? 1500 x 1500 16 What is the minimum manoeuvring floor space - hinge side approach - push side? 1050 x 1350 21
GAATES, 2014 17 Is there a clear space beside the latch edge of the door that extends the full height of the door? 18 The minimum manoeuvring space beside the door PULL side (front approach, OR latch side approach) is 600 mm 19 The minimum manoeuvring space beside the door PUSH side (front approach, OR latch side approach,) is 300 mm Fully Glazed Doors and Walls 20 Fully glazed doors, frameless glass doors, and sidelights in an accessible route shall be marked with a continuous opaque strip 300 (front, approach) 600 (latch, approach) 21 The continuous opaque strip shall have a colour tonal contrast with the background of the door 22
On Thin Ice, 2014 22 The continuous opaque strip shall have a minimum width of 50 mm 23 The continuous opaque strip shall be located across the width of the door at a height of 1350 1500 mm above the finished floor? 23
GAATES, 2014 Figure 2: Minimum Clear Areas at Doors 24
On Thin Ice, 2014 Figure 3: Manoeuvring Space at Doors (a) Figure 4: Manoeuvring Space at Doors (b) 25
GAATES, 2014 Figure 5: Door Clear Width and Accessible Signage Figure 6: Accessible Door Handles 26
On Thin Ice, 2014 Access Routes Access routes include all pedestrian areas through a facility, routes serving public areas as well as work areas. The accessible route should be even, and free of any changes in grade. Where there is a rise over 6 mm, it shall be beveled at a slope of 1:2 so that it is not a trip hazard. Carpeted areas can create a tripping hazard if the pile is too high, and it can also be difficult to wheel or manoeuvre on for persons using mobility aids. The running slope (the slope in the direction of travel) is generally considered to be a ramp when it exceeds a slope of 1:20. An important safety consideration is ensuring that there are no protruding objects or overhangs that may be hazardous to people who are blind or vision impaired as they make their way through a building interior. In addition to protruding objects such as telephones and drinking fountains, it is important to ensure that there is sufficient clear headroom along the pedestrian route. Access routes require a sufficient clear width to accommodate at least 2 persons passing each other in opposite directions, additional space is required for two wheelchairs to pass, or a persons with a vision impairment using a long white cane and another wheelchair to pass each other. Valuable wayfinding recommendations include the use of ceiling lights to orient people along walkways and the use of contrasting colour luminance at baseboards, walls and doorframes. These recommendations assist everyone in delineating the access route and are particularly useful to people with limited vision and people with autism or cognitive disabilities. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 27
GAATES, 2014 Access Route Question CSA NBC Compliant General 1 Is the floor and ground surface stable, firm and slip resistant? 2 The floor and ground surfaces do not have heavy patterns. 3 Changes in level, or a rise between 0-6 mm on accessible routes may be vertical. (Except for elevators, elevating devices, and curb ramps). 4 Changes in level, or a rise between 7-13 mm on accessible routes must be beveled at a slope of 1:2 (Except for elevators, elevating devices, and curb ramps). 5 A vertical rise of over 13 mm on accessible routes (except for elevators, elevating devices, and curb ramps) requires: 6 If there is a cross slope on an accessible route, is it less than 1:50 (2%)? Sloped surface not steeper than a ratio of 1:12 No. Must be beveled at slope of up to 1:2 Sloped surface (yes/no) Action Required for Compliance 28
On Thin Ice, 2014 7 On an accessible route, is the running slope less than 1:20 (5%)? 8 If the running slope of an accessible route is steeper than 1:20, is it designated as a ramp or curb ramp? 9 If there are gratings in a pedestrian area, are the spacing widths less than 13 mm? 10 If there are gratings in a pedestrian area, are they placed so that the long dimension is perpendicular to the primary direction of travel? 11 On an accessible route, with the exception of short indentations of up to 600 mm in length, there is a minimum clear width of 920: Head Room 12 In a pedestrian area (walkways, halls, corridors, or aisles), is there a minimum clear headroom height of 2030? 29
GAATES, 2014 13 Where headroom in a pedestrian area is less than 2030 mm from the floor, is there a guardrail or other barrier with a bottom leading edge at a max height of: Protruding Objects 14 Is the height of the bottom edge of guards, barriers or protruding objects at a max height of 680 mm? 15 Where an object protrudes within a height range of between 680-2030 mm, the maximum allowable protrusion into the accessible route is 100 mm? 16 Is the clear width of an accessible route kept free of any protruding objects? 17 Is there a minimum clear width of interior accessible routes of at least 920 mm? 18 Where there are short indentations of up to 600 mm in length (such as doorways), is there a minimum clear width of: 680 680 for obstructions located within a headspace of 1980 810 800 30
On Thin Ice, 2014 Clear Width/Clear area 19 At a U-turn around an obstacle less than 1200 mm wide, is there a minimum clear area of 1100 mm? 20 At a U-turn around an obstacle greater than 1200 mm wide, is there a minimum clear width of 920 mm? 21 In high traffic areas, is there a minimum clear route of at least 1500 mm? 22 On exterior accessible routes, is there a minimum clear width of: 23 On exterior accessible routes, where the path is adjacent to a vehicular route, is there a curb with a curb ramp, a railing or barrier, or a detectable hazard indicator? 24 On accessible routes, is there a clear route of 1500 mm, providing enough room for two wheelchairs, or one wheelchair and one walking person to pass? 1500 1100 If over 30 m long 31
GAATES, 2014 25 On long paths of travel, are rest areas provided at travel intervals of 30 m? Line up Guides / Queuing Guides 26 Is there a clear width of at least 920 mm between line up guides? 27 Line up guides shall have a clear floor area where line-ups change direction, and where they begin and end, of at least 1500x1500 mm? 28 Are line up guides detectable from the floor at or below a height of 680 mm? 29 Are line up guides colour contrasted with their surroundings? 30 Line up guides shall have a glare free surface? 32
On Thin Ice, 2014 Figure 7: Clear Width on an Accessible Route 33
GAATES, 2014 Figure 8 Protruding Overhead Objects Figure 9: Clear Space and Obstructions 34
On Thin Ice, 2014 Figure 10: Headroom and Protruding Overhead Objects 35
GAATES, 2014 36
On Thin Ice, 2014 Anthropometrics The term Anthropometrics simply means the range of general space and reach dimensions for people with various disabilities, and often using mobility devices. Research is increasingly demonstrating the wide range in the length and heights of different types of mobility devices, depending on if the person is, for example, using a manual sports wheelchair, a power wheelchair, or an electric scooter. Depending on the device being used, there will be a range for the amount of clear space required however, the space within buildings is not infinite, and it is not always possible to accommodate all type of devices. Consequently, the floor space requirements indicated are currently determined by what is required for the average sized person, using a manual wheelchair. The minimum clear floor area of a manual wheelchair in front of controls and at lavatories, counters, etc. is 750 x 1200 mm with a minimum clear floor area to allow access for people using manual wheelchairs to turn around being 1500 x 1500 mm. Obstructions or protrusions such as drinking fountains and telephones that could be hazardous to persons with vision impairments who use a white cane or guide dog should not be installed in the pedestrian path of travel. The maximum forward reach range for a person seated in a wheelchair is 1200 mm. The maximum forward reach over an obstruction is 500 mm. Consequently, the height of controls and operating mechanisms should range from 400-1200 mm. Operating controls, such as for security systems, vending machines, etc. should have both tactile (can feel feedback) and auditory (can hear feedback) information. Counters at a reception or service area, bar and cafe counters, etc. should have a section of counter that is lower in height to accommodate persons who are seated or of short stature. There should also be sufficient clear floor area for a forward approach to a counter or table. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 37
GAATES, 2014 Anthropometrics Question CSA Compliant (yes/no) General 1 The minimum clear floor area needed to accommodate a single stationary manual wheelchair and occupant for a forward approach is: 2 The minimum clear floor area needed to allow a wheelchair and occupant to perform a U-turn is: 3 The minimum clear area needed to allow access for both forward and side approaches is: 4 The floor area for an approach may include part of the knee clearance under an element. 5 The comfortable walking width for persons using crutches or a person using a long white cane is: 6 The comfortable forward detection range for a person using a long white cane is: 7 A person who uses a guide dog requires a clear width of: 8 The minimum clear floor area to accommodate a single stationary powerchair or scooter and occupant is: 750 x 1200 1500 x 1500 1200 x 1200 920 900-1500 1200 750 x 500 Action Required for Compliance 38
On Thin Ice, 2014 9 The minimum clear floor area required to accommodate a single stationary walker and occupant is: 10 The minimum diameter for clear turning space at toe level for a wheelchair to turn 180/360 degrees is: 11 The minimum diameter for clear turning space at toe level for a power wheelchair or scooter to turn 180/360 degrees is: 12 The minimum diameter for clear turning space at toe level for a power wheelchair to turn 180/360 degrees is: 13 There should be no obstructions projecting into the clear width of the access route greater than: 14 For persons using crutches, no obstruction shall project into the clear path of travel below a minimum height of: 15 To be cane detectable, obstructions shall have the bottom leading edge be no higher off the floor than: 16 From a wheelchair, the maximum forward reach height above the floor without obstructions is: 17 From a wheelchair, the minimum forward reach height above the floor without obstructions is: 18 From a wheelchair, the maximum forward reach over an obstruction for touch is: 635 x 710 1500 2250 3150 100 300 680 1200 400 600 39
GAATES, 2014 19 From a wheelchair, the maximum forward reach over an obstruction for grasp is: 20 At controls and operating mechanisms for soap or paper towel dispensers, security card readers, light switches, fire pulls, etc. the minimum clear level floor space shall be: 21 The centreline of operating controls are located above the floor between: 22 Controls are operable with one hand, and without tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. 23 The control settings provide tactile and/or auditory information, including function and position of controls. 24 The operating controls are illuminated to a level of at least 100 lx. 25 Where reading is necessary, the operating controls or visual displays are illuminated to a level of at least 200 lx. 26 The operating controls colour contrast with their background? 27 The top of the counter, table and work surface or similar surface is at a height between: 28 Where a forward approach is used at a counter or table, there is a clear knee height above the floor of at least: 500 750 x 1200 400-1200 730-860 680 40
On Thin Ice, 2014 29 Where a forward approach is used at a counter or table, there is a clear knee width of at least: 30 Where a forward approach is used at a counter or table, there is a clear knee depth of at least: 31 The clear floor width and depth for a forward approach at a counter or table is at least: 32 At a counter or stall, the clear floor width and depth for a side approach (the long side parallel to the counter or table) is at least: 750 480 750 x 1200 1200 x 750 41
GAATES, 2014 Figure 11: Depth, Height and Clear Areas at a Counter, Table or Work Surface 42
On Thin Ice, 2014 Figure 12: Clear Floor Area Required for Stationary Manual Wheelchair Figure 13: Clear Space Required for U-Turn of Manual Wheelchair 43
GAATES, 2014 Figure 14: Heights for Controls 44
On Thin Ice, 2014 Signage When creating and installing signage, effort should be made to maximize their effectiveness and enhance their legibility for everyone. Consistency, uniformity of design and consistent sign placement are important considerations for making information as clear and accessible as possible. People may have a limitation in moving their head or a reduction in peripheral vision, and therefore, signs should be placed consistently and at appropriate heights, in unobstructed locations, facing the direction of travel and at decision-making points. Nearsighted persons may have to approach much closer to read a sign than those with average visual acuity, therefore having signs at eye level allow persons to get closer to the sign. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 45
GAATES, 2014 Signage # Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) Location & General 1 Where facilities are required to be identified as being accessible, is the International Symbol of Access (wheelchair logo) used? 2 Is the signage located on the latch side of the doors? 3 Where there is no wall space on the latch side of a door, signs shall be located on the nearest adjacent wall. Action Required for Compliance 4 Is the centerline of interior signage at a height of 1500 +/- 10 mm above the floor? 5 If the door is equipped with closers, and does not have holdopen devices, is signage on the push side of the door? 6 Is signage consistently located? 46
On Thin Ice, 2014 7 When giving the same type of information, is the signage consistent in its shape, colour, and positioning? 8 Is the signage uniformly designed? 9 Is signage colour contrasted with its background (light/dark or dark/light)? 10 Is signage positioned to avoid shadow or glare? Letters, Characters & Numbers 11 Are the letters and numbers on signs written in sans serif (Arial, Verdana, Helvetica) typeface? 12 Are the visual characters written in both upper and lower case? 13 Are the characters conventional, and not written in italic, oblique, script, or highly decorative or unusual form? 14 Do the signs use Arabic numerals? (1234567890) 15 On the signs, are the letters, numbers and pictographs colour contrasted with the background by at least 70%? 16 Do the pictograph symbols on tactile signs rise above the surface between 0.8-1.5 mm? 47
GAATES, 2014 17 Are the pictograph symbols on tactile signs accompanied by the equivalent description in Grade 1 Braille, positioned directly below the pictograph symbol? Tactile Sign 18 Can a tactile sign be approached to within 100 mm without any obstructions or without standing within a door swing? 19 Is there at least 75 mm of clear wall area surrounding the sign? 20 If there are tactile signs, is the leading vertical edge of the sign a distance away from the door jamb of 150 mm(+/- 10) *note: overhead signs do not need to be tactile since they cannot be reached for touching. Pictographs 21 Do the pictographs contrast with their background? (Light on dark, or dark on light) 22 Pictograph symbols on tactile signs have a height between 16-50 mm? Braille 23 Are tactile characters accompanied by Grade II Braille? 48
On Thin Ice, 2014 24 Does the standard sign Braille have a dot height between 0.6 0.8 mm? 25 From the base line of the Braille cells, is the Braille 1015-1525 mm above a finished floor? Viewing Distance 26 Are the characters at least 200mm high where there is a viewing distance of 6000 mm (6m)? 27 Are the characters at least 150mm high where there is a viewing distance of 4500 mm (4.5 m)? 28 Are the characters at least 100mm high where there is a viewing distance of 3000 mm (3 m)? 29 Are the characters at least 50 mm high where there is a viewing distance of 1500 mm (1.5m)? 30 Are the characters at least 25mm high where there is a viewing distance of 750 mm? 49
GAATES, 2014 Illumination 31 Illumination on signs that depend on emergency lighting is at least 200 lx 50
On Thin Ice, 2014 Ramps A ramp is ideal for people who are having difficulty negotiating stairs, be it the need to carry heavy objects between levels, move a child in a stroller, or because of a disability. Providing both stairs and a ramp at changes in level will allow people to choose the option that best suits their needs, resulting in a flexible and more universally accessible design. Of course, there are a number of considerations to make in order to ensure that users are able to negotiate the ramp safely and with relative ease. In the north, the design of any exterior ramp should consider the weather and climatic elements, and having a covered ramp would be ideal. If this is not possible, consider: positioning the ramp in a location that is least likely to be affected by snow drifts or wind-blown rain; locating the ramp to minimize the effect of snow and rain falling from rooftops; choosing durable materials for the ramp surface that can be shoveled; leaving a gap at the bottom of handrails and guards to allow for snow removal; choosing surface materials that provide good grip, even when wet *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 51
GAATES, 2014 Ramps # Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) General 1 If the running slope (slope in the direction of travel), of the ground or floor is more than 1:20 (5%), is there a ramp? 2 Is the minimum clear width of a ramp 870 mm? 920-1000 Action Required for Compliance 3 How wide is the ramp (measured between handrails)? 4 What is the maximum running slope of the ramp? 5 The horizontal distance between the landings is a maximum of 9 m? 6 Is the cross-slope (slope of the surface across the direction of travel) less than 1:50? Landings 7 Are the landings designed to drain water from their surface? 8 The landings at both the top and bottom of each run of a ramp are at least 1500 x 1500? 920 870 1:12-1:20 1:12 52
On Thin Ice, 2014 9 If and where the ramp changes direction, is there a level landing? 10 Is the landing as wide as the ramp? 11 The length of an intermediate landing is at least 1200 mm? 12 Where the landing is served by a door on an accessible route, is the landing at least 1500x1500 mm? 13 At the top or bottom of the ramp where there is a slope change, is there a colour-contrasted strip across the full width of the ramp? 1500 Yes, 50+/-10 deep yes (colour contrast or a distinctive pattern) 14 Where an intermediate landing meets a slope change, is it marked with a colour-contrasted strip across the full width of the ramp? Door Latch Space 15 Where a door leads onto a ramp landing, is there at least 600 mm of space beside the latch (door handle) side of the door? Yes, 50+/-10 deep yes (colour contrast or a distinctive pattern) (600 pull side of the door, 300 push side of the door) 53
GAATES, 2014 Illumination 16 What is the illumination for interior ramps? 17 Are exterior ramps illuminated at ground level to at least 100 lx? Edge Protection 18 Edge protection is required at ramps or landings not at grade 19 There shall be edge protection with a minimum height of 75 mm 20 The lower edge of a raised barrier above the ramp or landing surface shall have a maximum height of 75 mm 21 The bottom edge of a rail above the ramp or landing surface shall have a maximum height of 75 mm 50 lx 54
On Thin Ice, 2014 Figure 15: Ramp Design (Handrails should extend fully around the ramp and top and middle landings. Sections have been partially omitted for clarity). 55
GAATES, 2014 56
On Thin Ice, 2014 Stairs Stairs are one means of overcoming changes in level but must not be the only means of moving between levels. Poorly designed stairs can cause serious injury, which is why factors such as illumination, slip-resistance, handrails, and the dimensions of the stairs are required to conform to specific requirements. It is important for the safety of all users, that stairs have a consistent design, not only from one building to the next, but especially within each building. Stairs should have a consistent riser height and tread depth. There should be no open risers on stairs, as this can be disorienting for persons with vision and/or cognitive disabilities. Furthermore, open risers are unsafe for persons who use canes or wear leg/ankle braces, as they can get caught in the opening. To increased visibility and safety, horizontal strips that are in a contrasting in colour, and nosings that are slip resistant and colour contrasting are required at the edge of stair treads. Strongly patterned carpets and flooring surface materials are not recommended anywhere, and especially should not be used on stairs (a design practice commonly used by many hotels). Many people (especially older people and people with vision impairments) find patterned carpets on stairs disorienting. Handrails are an important safety feature on all stairs, and are addressed in a separate section on Handrails. Although the requirements for tactile signage are addressed in the section on Signage, it is a particularly important accessibility feature for persons with vision impairments at emergency egress stairs. Another important safety concern is the illumination level on stairs, ensuring there is sufficient illumination on flights and landings, and positioned without causing shadows. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 57
GAATES, 2014 Stairs # Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) Treads and Risers 1 Is the height of each riser a maximum of 180 mm? 2 Is the depth of each tread at least 280 mm? 3 Are the height and depth of risers and treads consistent? Action Required for Compliance Nosings 4 Are the stair nosings slipresistant? 5 Do the stair nosings have a colour contrast from the stair treads? 6 Is there a horizontal strip at the edge of the tread? Entire tread required Colour contrast or distinct pattern 100 lx 50 lx 7 Is the minimum light level on the stairs 50 lx? *see sections on Handrails, Fire Safety Regulations 58
On Thin Ice, 2014 Figure 16: Stair & Handrail Design 59
GAATES, 2014 60
On Thin Ice, 2014 Handrails Handrails are an important safety feature, and are particularly helpful to individuals with mobility or vision impairments. Many people rely upon handrails to maintain balance, prevent falls, and to serve as a visual and tactile wayfinding aid. Shape and placement are key factors to consider. The hand should be able to slide along the rail without obstruction, and extensions at the top and bottom of stairs should be provided to support and orientate users. Wherever possible, there should be handrails on both sides of the stairs. In public facilities that are frequently used by children as well as adults, it is a best practice is to have handrails at two heights one at a standard height and a lower one to meet the needs of children and persons of short stature. Handrails are required to have horizontal extensions extending beyond the bottom and the top of the ramp or stairs to ensure that as people begin to ascend or descend stairs, they are able to obtain a firm grip on the handrail before having to step onto the stairs or ramp. It is important that the end of the handrail return to the wall, floor or post so that it does not become a hazard. If the 300 mm extension protrudes into the path of travel, it should be detectable at a height of 680 mm from the ground, by a person using a white cane. Handrails are required to have a round or elliptical gripping shape so they are easy to grasp and comfortable to use, this enables people to get a firm grip. Handrails are required to have a continuous gripping surface for safety reasons It is also recommended to have handrails that are colour contrasted with their surrounding surface: this enables everyone, including persons with vision impairments to easily find the handrail, and is an added safety feature during emergency situations. A further safety feature is the installation of a contrasting tactile strip applied to the top and bottom of the handrail used for emergency exits stairs or ramps. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 61
GAATES, 2014 Handrails # Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) At ramps 1 Are there handrails on both sides of the ramp? 2 The handrail is located at a height from the stair tread of? 3 What is the clear width between the handrails? 4 If the ramp is wider than 2200 mm, is there an intermediate handrail? If yes, what is the clear width? At Stairs 5 Do the stairs a have handrails on both sides? 6 What is the top height of the handrail above the stair nosing? General 7 Does at least one of the handrails extend beyond both the top and bottom of the ramp or stairs at least 300 mm? If ramp run is greater than 150 Both sides for all ramps 860-920 865-965 920 870 920-1000 870-1650 If 1100 mm or wider 860-920 865-965 (at least one handrail) Action Required for Compliance 62
On Thin Ice, 2014 8 Handrails shall have a diameter (or equivalent gripping shape) of 30-40 if circular, 45 if elliptical 30 if circular: 30 43 diameter if non-circular 45 if diagonal & 100-125 perimeter 9 What is the space between the handrail and a smooth wall surface? Between the handrail and a rough surface? 10 Is there at least one continuous handrail throughout the length of the stairway or ramp, including landings, (except where interrupted by doorways or an alternative path of travel)? 11 Handrails shall have horizontal extensions that return to wall, floor or post - they shall be terminated in a manner which will not obstruct pedestrian travel or create a hazard 12 Handrails which return to the post have their bottom edge at a max height of 680 mm from the floor 35-45 (if smooth) 45-60 (if rough) 50 (if smooth) 60 (if rough) (Newel posts permitted) 63
GAATES, 2014 Figure 17: Handrail Design 64
On Thin Ice, 2014 Washrooms There are many factors which contribute to making an accessible washroom comfortable and safe for all users. Lighting, the placement of fixtures and operating controls, and manoeuvring space are all important factors to consider when designing an accessible washroom. Accessible signage at washroom doors is especially important for persons with vision impairments, to ensure they can identify the appropriate washroom. It important to ensure there is adequate manoeuvring space at washroom doors, especially inside washrooms. Two doors in series is a common design practice that should be avoided at washroom doors, as it can make it difficult for people to independently exit the washroom. Whenever possible, washrooms should be designed to be door-less, or have automatic door openers installed. The accessible stall should have a door that has a clear width of at least 800 mm. The stall door opening should align with the clear space adjacent to the toilet, and the door should swing outwards the outward swing and door alignment with the clear transfer space ensures that there is sufficient manoeuvring space inside the stall for a person using a wheelchair to enter the stall, turn around and pull the door closed. To facilitate opening and closing the stall door, there should be a D pull handle on both the inside and outside of the stall door. The height of the toilet in the accessible washroom should be at the higher end of the standard range, as people who use wheelchairs prefer to transfer at the same height as the seat of their wheelchair, and older people prefer a higher toilet seat height. It is important to locate the toilet at a distance away from the wall that will facilitate the safe use of the grab bars. It is just as important to locate the toilet paper dispenser in a location that is easy to reach from the toilet seat, yet does not interfere with the use of the grab bars. Large commercial, multi-roll bulk toilet paper dispensers installed above the grab bar frequently interfere with and restrict the use of the grab bars. It is recommended to install toilet paper dispensers beneath the grab bars and aligned with the front of the toilet seat. 65
GAATES, 2014 The lavatory/sink should be installed so there is sufficient maneuvering space in front of it and with sufficient kneespace underneath it. It is important to offset to the rear or insulate the water pipes under the lavatory so that wheelchair users do not burn their legs if they come into contact with the pipes. There should be lever handles at the lavatory, so that when they are in the off position, they can easily be reached by a person in a seated position or person of short stature. People with disabilities making transfers onto toilets place greater than average shear force on seats and fittings, therefore steel nuts and bolts should be used whenever possible to secure the toilet seat. A visual alarm should be located in washrooms and changing rooms to alert people who are Deaf or hard of hearing in the event of an emergency. Deodorizers that emit perfume should be avoided as they can cause reactions in people with environmental sensitivities. *All units in mm unless otherwise noted. 66
On Thin Ice, 2014 Washrooms # Question CSA NBC Compliant (yes/no) Building Requirement 1 If on a storey that requires an accessible path of travel, is there an accessible washroom or water closet? Main Entrance Door 2 Ensure there is sufficient clear manoeuvring space of 1500 x 1500 mm on the inside of the washroom doors Signage 3 See SIGNAGE Checklist for more information about accessible signage Floor Area 4 Is the interior of the accessible bathroom stall at least 1500 x 1500 mm? Toilet Stall Door 5 Can the door be locked from the inside, and with one hand, without tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist? 1500 x 1600 Action Required for Compliance 67
GAATES, 2014 6 Is the stall entrance at least 800 mm wide? 7 In front of the stall door, is there a clear space of at least 1700 x 1400 mm? 8 Does the door swing outward (unless additional manoeuvring space is provided in the stall interior to accommodate the door swing)? 9 Is there a horizontal D-type door pull in the interior & exterior of the stall door? Is the centreline of the D-type 10 door pull (on the inside of the stall-door) located 200-300 mm from the hinge? 11 Is the centreline of the D-type door pull (on the outside of the stall-door) located near the hinge side of the door? 12 The D-type pull handles are located at a height above the floor between: Toilet Seat and Flush Control 13 Is the top of the toilet seat 400-460 mm above the floor? 810 1500 x 1500 120-220 from the hinge side 800-1000 Near the latch side 900-1000 68
On Thin Ice, 2014 14 The centerline of the toilet is located at a distance from the adjacent wall of? 15 Are the flush controls easily accessible and located on the transfer side of the toilet? Grab Bars General 16 Is there at least 1 horizontal grab bar to serve the toilet? 17 Are grab bars 30-40 mm in diameter? 18 Is the space between the wall and the grab bar 35-45 mm? 19 Can the grab bars resist a force from any direction greater than 1.3 kn? 20 The horizontal grab bar is mounted at a height above the floor of 460-480 At a height of 400-1200 285-305 (will be changing to 460-480) 2 1 750-850 840 920 69
GAATES, 2014 21 Is the grab bar installed on the side closest to the toilet? Wall Urinal and Flush Control 22 If it is a wall-hung urinal, the height of the lower-rim is at a height of: 23 Measuring in front of and centered with the urinal, is there a clear space at least 800 mm wide? 24 Is the approach to the urinal unobstructed by changes in floor level? Urinal Grab Bars 25 Are there vertical grab bars mounted on the back wall on both sides of the urinal? 26 Are the two vertical grab bars each at least 300 mm long? 430 488-512 750 x 1200 600 70
On Thin Ice, 2014 27 From the centre line of the urinal, are both vertical grab bars positioned at a distance of 380 mm? 28 Are the centrelines of the vertical grab bars located 1000 mm off the floor? Lavatory 29 Is there at least 725 x 1200 mm of clear space in front of the lavatory 30 The lavatory is located so that the distance between the centreline of the lavatory and the side wall is at least 460 mm? 31 The lavatory should have sufficient height and kneespace to accommodate a wheelchair user. Does it have a knee space of at least 735 mm wide, 205 mm deep, and 685 mm high, with toe space to a depth of 225 mm? Lower ends are 600-650 above floor) 750 (width) 200 (depth) 680 (high) 230 (toe) 735 (width) 205 (depth) 685 (high) 225 (toe) 71
GAATES, 2014 32 Are the pipes offset to the rear, or are they insulated? Accessories 33 There at least one of each type of washroom accessory (soap, paper towel, etc.) with operable parts and controls at a height less than 1200 mm from the floor? 34 Is a coat hook mounted on a side wall of the toilet stall? 35 Is there at least one mirror with a bottom edge with a maximum height of 1000 mm? 36 Where a soap dispenser is provided at an accessible lavatory, is it located at a maximum height of: 1100 1200 37 At an accessible lavatory, is the maximum forward reach of soap dispenser within reach of a seated person? 38 Where reading is necessary, is the washroom illuminated to a minimum of 100 lx? 39 In areas where controls are operated, is the washroom illuminated to a minimum of 100 lx? 500 200 lx 72
On Thin Ice, 2014 Figure 18: Washroom Design 73
GAATES, 2014 Figure 19: Accessible Washroom Stall 74