Sunday, October 3, 2010

Universal Design

Ok, here is my Universal Design Blog. I used the checklist at http://www.washington.edu/doit/Brochures/Programs/equal_access_spaces.html.  For my observation I went to the "mall" in Virginia as well as made a quick stop at McDonalds. Below is what I found.

Entrances and Routes of Travel

Make physical access welcoming and accessible to people with a variety of abilities, genders, and ages.
_x_ Are there convenient, wheelchair-accessible parking spaces and routes of travel to facilities and within facilities?
_x_ Are entryways sheltered?
_x_ Are outdoor lights with motion sensors installed near entrances?
__ Do sensors automatically open exterior doors?
_x_ Are lever handles rather than knobs used for doors?
_x_ Are gently sloping walks integrated into the design rather than steps and ramps that segregate individuals with physical disabilities?
_x_ Are there are ample high-contrast, large-print directional signs to and throughout the physical space?
_x_ Are universally recognized icons used on signage?
_x_ Is adequate lighting available? 

_na_ Are fixed or fold-down seats available in showers?
_x_ Are levers installed for sink handles?
__ Are mirrors, sinks, and towel dispensers located so they are usable by individuals with a wide range of body sizes from standing or seated positions?
_x_ On appliances and other equipment, are front-mounted, easy-to-operate controls with labels in large, high-contrast print used?
_na_ Do electrical outlets and light switches (with dimmers) allow access from standing or seated positions?
_na_ In classrooms, are furniture and fixtures adjustable in height and allow for flexible arrangements of different learning activities and student groupings? 

__ Are nonslip walking surfaces used?
_x_ Have emergency systems been installed that incorporate audio and visual warnings?
_x_ Are aisles wide and clear of obstructions for the safety of users who have mobility or visual impairments?

_x_ Are procedures in place for requesting disability-related accommodations in signage, publications, and information kiosks?
_x_ Do facility staff members know how to respond to requests for disability-related accommodations? 

Pictures:
 Specially reserved parking
 Doors that would be difficult for a person in a wheel chair to open by him/herself (not a good example of Universal Design!)
 Universally recognized icons on the bathroom door proclaiming wheelchair access
 A sign stating that there are services available for customers with disabilities
Automatic door, MUCH more accessible for someone in a wheelchair!

1 comment:

  1. Definitely looks like this Virginia Mall could use some help updating their resources to be more disability friendly. But I would definitely say they are doing well with what they have; a few minor improvements would make all the difference.

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