universal design

City of New York Department of Design and Construction in partnership with The Mayor’s Offi ce for People with Disabilities

Danise Levine, M.Arch.Editor-in-Chief

new york

universal design new york

Danise Levine, M.Arch.Editor-in-Chief

P U B L I C A T I O N S

Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental AccessUniversity at BuffaloThe State University of New YorkBuffalo, NY

Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Levine, Danise; editor.

The NYC Guidebook to Accessibility and Universal Design / Danise Levine, ed.

p. cm.

Includes index.

ISBN 0-9714202-3-8

1. Universal design. 2. Barrier-free design.I. Title .

© 2003 Center for Inclusive Design & Environmental Access, University at Buffalo, TheState University of New York

aaPreface New York City remains committed to furthering universal design and

to encouraging architects to integrate universal design concepts into their work. To make it easier for architects to access the universal design concepts that were defined in New York City's 2001 book"Universal Design New York", this handy desktop reference manual has been developed. This desktop manual concisely presents the most common universal design principles from Universal Design New Yorkand offers simple, straightforward examples of how to incorporate those principles into real projects.

Incorporating universal design into projects benefits everyone.We urge you to use this desktop manual in conjunction with Universal Design New York to make that a reality.

New York City remains committed to furthering universal design and to encouraging architects to integrate universal design concepts into their work. To make it easier for architects to access the universal design concepts that were defined in New York City's 2001 book "UniversalDesign New York", this handy desktop reference manual has been developed. This desktop manual concisely presents the most common universal design principles from Universal Design New Yorkand offers simple, straightforward examples of how to incorporate those principles into real projects.

Incorporating universal design into projects benefits everyone.We urge you to use this desktop manual in conjunction with Universal Design New York to make that a reality.

Kenneth R. Holden, CommissionerDepartment of Design and ConstructionCity of New York

bbContents a Preface ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 2

b Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................................................................. 41 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 62 How to Use the Book .............................................................................................................................................................. 163 Principles of Universal Design ......................................................................................................................... 184 Using Circulation Systems ........................................................................................................................................... 205 Entering and Exiting .................................................................................................................................................................. 406 Wayfinding ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 547 Parking and Passenger Loading Zones .................................................................................... 748 Seating ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 809 Obtaining Products and Services .......................................................................................................... 86

10 Using Public Amenities ....................................................................................................................................................... 10611 Cultural Facilities ............................................................................................................................................................................ 12212 Public Assembly and Entertainment Facilities ....................................................... 13613 Participant Sports and Recreation Facilities ............................................................ 14814 Temporary Lodging ................................................................................................................................................................ 16015 Workplace Facilities ............................................................................................................................................................ 17416 Human Service Facilities ............................................................................................................................................. 19217 Renovations and Additions .................................................................................................................................... 20418 Conclusion ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 210

Universal Design Audit Checklist ............................................................................................................. 212Credits ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 228Resources .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 230

11Introduction

Without a legal mandate,adoption of universal designdepends on acceptance by a broad consistuency,including designers and other decision makers.

Universal design is an approach to the development of "products andenvironments that can be used effectively by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design" (North Carolina State University, 1997).

Universal Design New York 2 (UDNY2) provides best practice designstrategies for implementing universal design. It is a companion document to Universal Design New York. The first book presented an introduction to the concept of universal design, described the Principles of UniversalDesign and how they can be applied to buildings, and provided manyguidelines for implementing the Principles in many kinds of buildings.This book augments the first book by providing strategies to address the guidelines, a checklist for use in design and more examples from actualbuildings and projects. It also shows how universal design differs fromaccessible design.

The book is designed to assist architects, developers, city officials and others in the City of New York to implement universal design principlesthereby helping the City become a "universal access city." Thus, many of the examples are from New York. However, the ideas and examplespresented here are clearly relevant to other cities.

The format of the book compares accessible design with universal design so that the differences are made clear. While many publications have beenwritten about universal design, they often equate the two concepts. But,they are really very different.

There are many accessibility laws in the United States and abroad. TheAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is perhaps the most well known ofthese laws. The purpose of accessibility laws are to eliminate barriers in buildings for use by people with disabilities. By definition, accessibility

laws distinguish between people with disabilities and able-bodiedpeople. While certainly valuable and necessary for insuring the rights of people with disabilities, thisdistinction implies an arbitrarydichotomy for designers. In reality,there is plenty of room for improvement in usability and safety for the entire population. Focusing onlyon improvements for people withdisabilities brings unnecessary attentionto that group and perhaps adds to thestigma of disability itself. It creates an"us" versus "them" mentality.

Universal design, on the other hand,seeks to provide improved usabilityand safety for all groups in thecommunity. It seeks to extend the ideals of accessible design topreviously underserved groups likepeople of short stature, older people, pregnant women, parents with children in strollers, people who do not speak the local language andothers. It recognizes that improvedusability enhances the value ofbuildings for all of us and, piece by piece, it creates a city that is a true home for everyone and one that welcomes all visitors with graceand dignity.

A group of experts developed the Principles of Universal Design in 1997:

Principle 1 Equitable Use The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.

Principle 2 Flexibility in UseThe design accommodates a wide rangeof individual preferences and abilities.

Principle 3 Simple and Intuitive UseUse of the design is easy to understand,regardless of the user's experience,knowledge, language skills, or currentconcentration level.

Principle 4 Perceptible Information The design communicates necessaryinformation effectively to the user,regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities.

Principle 5 Tolerance for Error The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidentalor unintended actions.

Principle 6 Low Physical EffortThe design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.

Principle 7 Size and space for Approach and Use

Appropriate size and space is providedfor approach, reach, manipulation, anduse regardless of user's body size,posture, or mobility.

Following these principles leads to adesign approach that does notdiscriminate and provides increasedusability for everyone.

7

8

Accessibility is a civil rights issue focusedon eliminating discrimination against oneminority group. In contrast, universaldesign is a market driven concept.Rather than responding to legalmandates, it reflects the realities ofcontemporary societies with their diverse populations. Instead of a focuson one minority group, universal design is an inclusive approach that benefits the entire population.

Accessibility codes are focused on functional issues and minimal solutions. They do not guarantee good design. Universal design expandson the lowest common denominator of codes to address a broader missionthat recognizes choices and differences.It integrates usability with otherimportant design concerns like aesthetics, sustainable design andurbanism.

Accessibility is a finite concept.It can be measured by compliance with standards. Universal designhowever, has no predefined end state.Unlike a legal mandate, there is nopredefined minimum level of compliance.Universal design is an ideal rather thanan end state. Success in universal designhas to be evaluated by how well abuilding meets the Principles given theresources available and the socio-physical context of the project. We liketo use the term universal designing, averb rather than a noun, to emphasizethis evolutionary imperative.

Without a legal mandate, adoption of universal design depends onacceptance by a broad consistuency,including designers and other decisionmakers. This means that universal designhas to provide added value beyondaccessibility for people with disabilities.For example, the design of products like grab bars has been driven mostlyby accessibility codes. The result is thatmost grab bars are direct responses tothe diagrams in the codes and provideno benefits beyond meeting coderequirements. In contrast, onemanufacturer took a universal designapproach that resulted in a verydifferent product, a grab bar systemthat provides a far greater level ofsafety for everyone than the minimumcode requirements and integrates manyaccessories to improve the usability andsafety of a bathing environment for awider range of people. The result is farmore attractive and functional.

There are many myths about universaldesign. In Universal Design New York,we identified these myths anddescribed the facts that disproved them. The myths include:

Myth #1 There are only a smallnumber of people who can benefitfrom universal design; thus we should not let their needs dictate.

Throughout our lifespan, we allexperience variations in our abilities. In fact, more than 50% of the U.S. population could be

characterized as having some sort of functional limitation. Therefore,universal design eventually benefits all of us.

Myth #2 Universal design only helps people with disabilities andolder people.

Universal design extends the benefits of good functional design to many groups of people who are not necessarily classified as having a disability or aged, but who routinely encounter functional obstacles in theirdaily lives (short people, tall people,large people, frail people, pregnantwomen, parents with children instrollers, visitors in an unfamiliarcity, etc).

Myth #3 The Americans withDisabilities Act (ADA) and otherdisability rights laws have createdequality, so there is no need to doany more.

The ADA addresses physical andsensory limitations, while universaldesign goes beyond just physicalfunction and considers the differences inthe way people think and interpretthings (e.g., understanding signs,wayfinding, using products,understanding alarms and warnings,etc.).

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Myth #4 Improved medicaltechnology is reducing the incidence of functional limitations,thus the need for universal designis short lived.

Actually, quite the opposite is true.Due primarily to the rapid agingpopulation, the incidence offunctional limitations have beenincreasing since the 1970s, and continue to do so. As the Baby Boomgeneration reaches old age, the numbersof older people are projected toincrease significantly, and the need for universal design will intensify.

Myth #5 Universal design cannotsustain itself in the marketplacebecause people who need it mostcannot afford it.

There are two marketplaces for universal design, the free market and the public sector. While aging Baby Boomers impact the free market economy with higher incomes,large numbers and higher levels ofconsumption, the lower income populationplays an important role in driving thedirection of government services andnot-for-profit organizations.

Myth #6 Universal design is simplygood ergonomic design.

Human factors and ergonomicsengineering have generally focused onthe majority of users, as opposed to

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universal design, which demonstrates thatwith good ergonomic design, those whoare not in the majority can also beincluded.

Myth #7 Universal design costs evenmore than accessible design.

If buildings were usable by everyonefrom the start, then fewer renovationswould be necessary in the future andthose renovations that were requiredwould be less expensive. Many universal design features cost nothing,and those that have marginal additional costs may have a value that exceeds their expense.

Two key trends are fueling theadvancement of universal design.First, the disability rights movement has recognized that regulatingaccessibility may increase function and reduce discrimination but it does not guarantee full participation insociety. Promoting universal access that benefits all people is a moreeffective way to promote socialparticipation. There have been manyinventions that were originally created to help people with disabilitiescompensate for impairments. Theybecame hugely successful whenintroduced into the broader market.Examples include the typewriter, thesound recording, text to speech systems,voice recognition and email. All theseinventions not only allowed people with physical and/or sensory limitationsto participate more fully in social roles

but they also enhanced productivity for all people. Examples like thesedemonstrate the value of universaldesign and confirm the universal designconcept.

Second, as the 21st Century proceeds, even in the less developedcountries, societies throughout the world are experiencing a rapidincrease in the number of older people in their population. In the U.S., it is expected that by 2030,the portion of the population over 65 years of age will reach 20% ofthe population. As described in moredetail in Universal Design New York,the new generation of older people,and the coming baby boomergeneration even more so, hasconsiderable purchasing power and will have a significant impact on the market for goods and services.Cities everywhere will have to respond to their desire for continuedindependent lifestyles or risk losing the most affluent of this group as they vote with their feet for moreaccommodating environments. From a public sector perspective, the burden of supporting the ever growing number of aging citizensthrough personal assistance will prove to be a great burden on adeclining number of working taxpayers. Universal design ofproducts, facilities and systems is a way to maintain independence inlate adulthood without increasing the burden to the taxpayer.

22How to Use

This Book

Universal design is a rapidlyexpanding area of practice in all the design professions.The growing demand to designbuildings and sites that areusable by everyone regardlessof their intellectual, functionalor sensory abilities is ademographic fact ofprofessional life because ofthe aging of the population.

This book was designed as a companion to Universal Design New York,produced by the City of New York's Mayor's Office for People withDisabilities in the Fall of 2001. That book introduced the idea ofbringing universal design principles to the design of buildings and facilities throughout New York City. It presented a definition of universaldesign, a rationale for adopting universal design principles and manyguidelines for incorporating universal design into development projects of all types. Extensive illustrations were used to demonstrate "bestpractice" universal design solutions.

Universal Design New York was received enthusiastically, not only bypeople in the City but by professionals and experts all over the world.The success of the first book prompted the Department of Design andConstruction to produce a second publication. The idea was to both follow the model established by UDNY and provide a publication that was more focused on technical solutions to problems, especially in thecontext of compliance with accessibility regulations such as those thatimplement the Americans with Disabilities Act and the New York CityAccessibility Code.

How to Use This Book13

Strategies

UDNY2, like its predecessor, purposelyavoids recommending prescriptivedesign standards for the universaldesign of buildings and sites. Instead, itprovides strategies that broaden andenhance the usability of buildings andsites for everyone. The illustrations ofbest practices are not meant to becopied or imitated. Rather, they areprovided to use as examples, promotean understanding of the concepts and toinspire others to develop their owncreative applications.

It is particularly important for thereader to understand that the strategieslisted under the accessibility sections of this book are not to be viewed assubstitutes for the codes andregulations. We have simplified andcondensed the requirements to makethem easier to follow and understandwithin the context of universal design.Designers should refer to the actualcodes and regulations for details.We, nor the City of New York, make no warrant or guarantee that theaccessibility strategies are completeand accurate.

Audience for this Guidebook

The strategies can be applied to allbuildings and sites –private as well as public. This book is

targeted primarily at professionaldesigners, including architects,landscape architects, urban designers,interior designers and graphic designerswho are engaged in design of new

buildings as well as additions orrenovations to existing buildings. Itcould also be used effectively byfacilities managers and developers toevaluate existing buildings and sitesand to develop problem statements fortheir improvement.

Universal design is a rapidly expandingarea of practice in all the designprofessions. The growing demand todesign buildings and sites that areusable by everyone regardless oftheir intellectual, functional or sensoryabilities is a demographic fact ofprofessional life because of the agingof the population. This guidebookintroduces professional designers toprinciples and strategies of universaldesign that will enable them to rise tothe challenges posed by the newdemographics. Moreover, universaldesign contributes to social and ethicalresponsible design of buildings andsites. It promotes replacement of ourcurrent discriminatory exclusive designswith new affirming inclusive designs thatare usable by all of us. And it does thiswithout burdening the professionaldesigner with prescriptive standardsthat stifle design innovation. Thebenefits of universal design are bestachieved by reinforcing designinnovation rather than design imitation,or worse, design duplication.

Evaluation and Improvement OverTime

Universal design is a continuous processof innovation targeted at improving

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insure that their work will have ameaningful impact on the lives ofcitizens for many years to come. In thefuture, we hope to update and expandthis volume with new information thatwe glean from the ongoing program ofresearch at the IDEA Center. Anysuggestions that readers have for uswould be welcome. Please visit our website and send us your comments andsuggestions.

usability for everyone. As with anyinnovative process, improvement uponthe status quo is always possible. Butwith universal design, the motivation tocontinually enhance the usability of abuilding is ever present because weare constantly interacting with the builtenvironment around us. A universallydesigned building or site is as muchabout becoming universally usable as itis about being universally usable.There are always improvements thatcan be made.

Universal design strategies can also be improved over time. Through post-occupancy evaluations of buildings andsites, universal design principles andstrategies can be tested, improved anddocumented. Through such evaluations,even our best current examples ofuniversal design in buildings and siteswill, over time, be challenged andreplaced by better examples. Buildingin an evaluation cycle in the lives of allbuildings and sites can go a long wayto improving our knowledge andpractice of universal design. This bookcan be a valuable resource for postoccupancy evaluations. By including a Universal Design Audit Checklist,we hope to encourage such uses.

Through new construction, renovationand maintenance projects, cities areconstantly undergoing improvement.Improving usability should be animportant part of that process. Wehope that this book will be useful todesigners who are engaged inimproving cities and help them to

Cross references are indicated by the eyeglass icon.All cross references are conveniently summarized atthe end of each topic area.

Metric conversions indicated for all units.

How to Use This Book15

Design of the Book

This new book is designed for easyuse during work tasks. The guidelinesfrom the first book have been used to generate more detailed"strategies for universal design." We have also included some newideas.

Each two-page spread features onetopic area, with requirements ofaccessibility codes and standardshave been separated out (on the left“green” page) from the otheruniversal design strategies (on theright “brown” page) so that it is clearto the designer what the law requiresand how universal design extendsbeyond the legal mandate of

Accessible codes and standardsfollow the rectangular green“Accessible” header:

accessibility. "Tips" are providedthroughout the document to giveadvice and suggestions. Somedetailed technical notes have beenincluded in places where we knowfrom experience that more technicalinformation is needed. Illustrations are used to give examples of how to implement selected strategies. Thenew book is spiral bound so it can belaid flat on a desk for easy reference.

Access ib le

Key Design Goals sectionoffers a short backgroundand important points for each topic area.

Helpful tips forimplementation ofaccessible requirmentsindicated in green sidebar.

Tips:

Design tips arelocated on thesidebar of everytopic specific page.

Consider the tips inthe green sidebar tohelp you to makebetter informedchoices about theplanning, design,and post-occupanyanalysis ofenvironments thatmeet accessrequirements.

Text is set in easy toread font, at large 12 point size.

Helpful tips for implementation universal designguidelines indicated in brown sidebar.

Convenient summary ofall cross references noted in topic area.

Important areas of Key Design Goalsare highlighted for quick reference.

Spiral binding allowsbook to remain openand flat while working.

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Tips:

Design tips arelocated on thesidebar of everytopic specific page.

Tips provided in thebrown sidebarfeature UniversalDesign insights tohelp you designenvironments andcreate situations thatcan be enjoyed byeveryone – equally.

Universal design criteria areindicated by the roundedbrown “Universal” header:

We have also included a UniversalDesign Audit Checklist to be used in the evaluation of designs andcompleted projects.

Universa l

How This Book is Arranged

This book has been arranged andcolor coded to help you compareAccessible conditions to UniversalDesign conditions. Refer to thediagram above for an explanationof the features of this book.

33Principles of

UniversalDesign

Universal design is a market-driven process intended tocreate environments that areusable by all people.

Purposes and History

Accessible design is primarily about court-enforced compliance withregulations. The regulations are intended to eliminate certain physicalbarriers that limit the usability of environments for people with disabilities.Historically, accessible design has focused on compliance with state orlocal building codes. These typically were based on the AmericanNational Standards Institute’s requirements. With the passage of theAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 and the subsequentdevelopment of the ADA Accessibility Guidelines, accessible design hasfocused more recently on satisfying these minimum technical criteria toallow most people with disabilities to use most of the designedenvironment (Salmen, 1996).

Universal design is a market-driven process intended to createenvironments that are usable by all people. While considerations forpeople with disabilities are certainly necessary for universal design, theyare not sufficient when planning and designing for the whole population.Accommodating the needs and wishes of everyone – e.g., children, theelderly, women and men – is also necessary for universal design(Norwegian State Council on Disability, 1997).

Acknowledging this greater inclusiveness, in the mid-1990s the Center forUniversal Design in Raleigh, NC asked ten leading advocates to identifythe underlying performance requirements of universal design. The resultingPrinciples of Universal Design (Connell, et al, 1997; North Carolina StateUniversity, 1997), developed through funding provided by the U.S.Department of Education’s National Institute on Disability and

Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), hassince become the most wellreferenced definition.

Explaining and Illustrating thePrinciplesThese seven principles are notwithout their critics. Some considerthem vague and difficult tounderstand. Others argue that they are more applicable to productand graphic design than buildingdesign. And yet, as evidenced bytheir growing internationalacknowledgment,these principles continue to maintaintheir status as the definitivestatement of what constitutesuniversal design. This guidebook also acknowledges the sevenPrinciples of Universal Design byexplaining and illustrating theirapplicability to the universal designof the built environment.

Principle 1 Equitable UseThe building’s design should make it equally usable by everyone.Ideally, the means by which peopleuse the building should be the same(e.g., providing one means of entryto the building that works well foreveryone). If it cannot be identical,the several means provided must beequivalent in terms of their privacy,security, safety and convenience.The building must never employmeans that isolate or stigmatize anygroup of users or privilege onegroup over another.

Principles of Universal Design19

Principle 2 Flexibility in UseThe building’s design should allowpeople to use its design features inmore than one prescribed way (e.g., providing a countertoporientation map that is viewablefrom either a seated or standingposition). It should accommodateboth right-and left-handed use andbe adaptable to the individual pace. The building’s design should

have the built-in flexibility to beusable even when it is employed in an unconventional or unanticipated manner.

Principle 3 Simple and IntuitiveThe building should make it easy foreveryone to understand the purposeof each design feature and how touse it (e.g., providing washroomlavatory faucets that make theirmethod of operation readilyapparent and relatively easy).Moreover, its means of use should be intuitively obvious so that itoperates as anticipated and,therefore, can be usedspontaneously.

Principle 4 Perceptible InformationThe building should provide allessential information in a variety of modes (e.g., written, symbolic,tactile, verbal) to ensure effectivecommunication with all usersregardless of their sensory abilities.The information provided must bepresented with sufficient contrast tosurrounding conditions so that it is

20

distinguishable from its context anddecipherable in all its various modesof presentation.

Principle 5 Tolerance for ErrorIdeally, the building’s design should eliminate, isolate or shieldany design features that couldprove hazardous to or inconvenience any user.When potentially dangerousconditions are unavoidable,users should receive warnings asthey approach the design feature(e.g., providing proximity warningsin a variety of sensory modes nearthe top of stairs.) The building’sdesign should also anticipateaccidental or unintended actions by any user to minimize theinconvenience and/or protect theuser from harm.

Principle 6 Low Physical EffortThe building’s design should employ design features that require little or no physical force to use them (e.g., replacing atraditional door knob with a leverhandle that does not require theability to grasp and turn the wrist).If a low level of force is required,any user should be able to engagethe feature without assuming anawkward or hazardous bodyposition (e.g., providing a smoothtravel surface with minimal slopealong the path of travel leading tothe entrance).

Principle 7 Size and Space for Approach and Use A building’s design features shouldprovide an adequate amount ofspace that is appropriatelyarranged to enable anyone to usethem (e.g., providing knee spaceunder a washroom lavatory toenable use by someone in a seatedposition). In addition, the spaceneeds to be arranged to provide a clear path of travel to and fromimportant design features for allusers.

44Using

Circulation Systems

Moving around outdoors and inside buildings is the quintessential activity of urban life. Accessibility of resources, in its broadest sense,and the mobility required for that access is what cities are all about.Accessibility laws mandate that certain accommodations need to bemade for people with mobility and sensory limitations, but, in fact,increasing accessibility for all users should be a primary goal forplanners and designers.

Minimum number of accessibleparking spaces

At least one accessible pathwayfrom main access points (e.g.,subway stations, bus stops, parkinglots to the building) to the accessiblebuilding entrance they serve

Accessible pathways that connect allaccessible buildings and facilities ona site (e.g. site amenities andattractions)

Clear width of at least 36 inches(915 mm)

Access ib le

Designs for outdoor spaces shouldaddress individual needs andpreferences. They should also ensurethe security and safety of all usersduring all times of normal use.

Provide a continuous path of travelwith no obstacles to any user from siteaccess points to all site destinations.

Provide security for all users.

Exterior Planning and Design

Tips:

Curb ramps onexisting sites canhave slopes steeperthan 1:12 if thereare space limitations,although a slope cannever be steeperthan 1:8.

Between 1:10 and1:12 slope allowedfor a rise of 6 inches(150mm) maximum.

Between 1:8 and1:10 slope allowedfor a rise of 3 inches(75mm) maximum.

Key Design Goals21

Passing spaces at least 60 inches by60 inches (1525 mm by 1525 mm)located at reasonable intervals thatdo not exceed 200 feet (61 m) foraccessible pathways with less than60 inches (1525 mm) clear width

Stable, firm, and slip-resistantwalking surfaces

Transition height of no more than ¼inch (6.5 mm) between differentflooring surfaces

Pathways steeper than 1:20 meetdifferent requirements because theyare considered ramps

Cross slopes not exceeding 1:50

Curb ramp, ramp, elevator, or

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platform lift where changes in levelare greater than ½ inch (13 mm)

Spaces no greater than ½ inch (13mm) wide in one direction forgratings located on walking surfaces

At least 80 inches (2030 mm)vertical clearance

Objects mounted to the wall withbottom edges between 27 inches(685 mm) and 80 inches (2030 mm)high from the floor project less than4 inches (100 mm) from the wall

Tips:

If vertical clearancealong an accessibleroute is below 80inches (2030 mm),provide a barrierthat will detectableby a cane for peoplewith visualimpairments.

Objects mounted withtheir bottom edgelower than 27 inches(685 mm) aredetectable by a caneand may protrudeany amount from thewall.

Provide illumination at all parkingareas, passenger loading zones andalong pedestrian pathways.

Eliminate hazards to passage.

dangerous areas

Seating areas for resting providedat intervals out of the circulationpath

Lighting along pathways reflecteddownward onto the path withoutcreating hot spots or glare

Edges of pathways defined withcurbs, contrasting textures or othermeans

Width of the path based on theexpected volume and direction

Potentially hazardous stairs, rampsand transitions marked withcontrasting colors, textures ormaterials to alert users

Direct access from all access points toall facilities and building entrances

All pathways accessible unless thereare alternative pathways that beginand end in the same location

Separate pedestrian, vehicular andbicycle/skating pathways with clearlymarked boundaries

Emergency communications equipmentat strategic locations whereverpotential security or safety threatsmay exist

Video surveillance as a deterrent in

Exterior Planning and Design(continued)

Tips:

Recreation areas andhistoric facilities ofteninclude challengingpaths with steepgrades, unpavedsurfaces, or otherpotential obstacles.Information can beprovided to let theusers know theconditions along suchpaths so they candecide for themselveswhether they want totraverse them.

23

Universa l

Key Design Goals

Tips:

If there are steepgrades that prohibitthe construction ofaccessible directpaths, provide a shortcut with steps forpeople who can walkstairs.

24

Avoid irregular textures, ridges, roughor uneven traveling surfaces andthose that have large or protrudingjoints

Avoid obstructions and hazards thatintrude into the path of travel (e.g. drainage grates, signs,overhanging trees, manholes, lightfixtures or benches)

Avoid highly reflective surfaces

Also Refer to:

Parking

Elevators

At least one passenger elevatorrequired in all multi-story buildingswith some exceptions

Located along an accessible route

Elevator cars self leveling with avertical gap of no more than ½ inch(13 mm) and a horizontal gap of nomore than 1 ¼ (32 mm) at the floorlevels

Hall call buttons centered at 42inches (1065 mm) above the floor

Access ib le

Mechanical circulation systems (e.g.elevators, moving walkways andescalators) are used to transportpeople to their various destinations.Although fully compliant elevators arepart of an accessible path of travel,adding universal design features willprovide additional benefits.

Mechanical CirculationSystems

Tips:

"Up" button must beabove the "down"button.

Main entry floorbutton of the buildingshould bedistinguished from therest of the buttons.

Key Design Goals25

Visible and audible signals providedto indicate the direction of the carthat is answering the call

Hall lanterns mounted at least 72inches (1830 mm) high from itscenterline to the floor

Visual elements at least 2 ½ inches(64 mm) in the smallest dimensionand visible from the vicinity of thehall call button

Call buttons raised or flush and atleast ¾ inch (19 mm) in the smallestdirection

Car doors open and closeautomatically and stop instantly andreopen if the door is interrupted byany object or person

26Car doors remain open for at least3 seconds when called

Braille, alpha numeric charactersand pictograms on control panel forfloor and function buttons

Illumination level of at least 5footcandles (53.8 lux) at the carcontrols, platform, car threshold andlanding sill

Emergency controls and alarmsgrouped at the bottom of the controlpanel

Floor area that allows maneuveringroom for wheelchair users to enterthe car, reach the controls, and exit;center opening door width at least36 inches (915 mm), cab depth 51inches (1291 mm), and cab width atleast 80 inches (2030 mm); sideopening door width at least 36inches (915 mm), cab depth 54inches (1370 mm), and cab width atleast 68 inches (1730 mm)

Elevator controls located no higherthan 54 inches (1370 mm) above thefloor for side approach and 48inches (1220 mm) for frontapproach

At least one passenger elevatorserving each level, includingmezzanines in multi-story buildings

If more than one elevator isprovided, each one should beaccessible (elevators are not

required in buildings that have lessthan 3 stories or have less than 3000square feet per story unless thebuilding is a shopping mall)

Platform Lifts

At least 30 inches (760 mm) by 48inches (1220 mm) clearance for aperson in a wheelchair to reach thecontrols and enter lift

At least 30 inches (760 mm) by 48inches (1220 mm) for platform lift

Lift controls no higher than 48 inches(1220 mm) for a forward reach and54 inches (1370 mm) for a sidereach

Controls operable with one hand andwithout requiring tight grasping,pinching or twisting of the wrist

Change in level no greater than ½inch (25 mm) and beveled edge witha slope of 1:2 or less where liftmeets the ground

Escalators and Moving Walkways

Escalators are not consideredaccessible paths of travel

Moving walkways are not addressedin accessibility codes

Tips:

Lifts are notpermitted in newconstruction exceptwhere no otheralternative ispossible. If aplatform lift isinstalled, it must beusable withoutassistance.

Floors in andadjacent to theelevator must bestable, firm, and slip-resistant.

Key Design Goals

car allows people who usewheelchairs, push strollers or pullwheeled luggage to make a 180degree turn

Standard telephone keypad layoutto "dial up" the floor desired

Contrasts between objects (e.g.doorway frames, calling buttons,faceplate, key numbering) and theirbackgrounds or their adjacentenvironments (e.g., usingcomplementary colored backgroundsto enhance the color tenacityphenomenon)

Voice synthesis or recordedannouncements to describe the floorreached and its contents, whereapplicable

Elevators

Elevator lobby within short distancefrom main building entrance andother main function facilities

Clear floor area of the lobby wideenough to allow people to assembleand gather prior to entry withoutobstructing the circulation flow

Clear floor surface of the landingarea wide enough for all users toapproach and use from a forward ora parallel direction

Clear floor surface of the elevator

Mechanical CirculationSystems (continued)

Tips:

Snow can accumulateunder the lift andthey can be veryuncomfortable whenit is raining.

Lifts are often notused regularly butwhen needed, it isimportant that theyare operatingproperly. Thus, thebest locations arethose where their usecan be under visualsurveillance of anemployee who canprovide assistance ifneeded.

27

Universa l

The location and the physicalcharacteristics of lobbies, car andplatform interiors, call buttons andcontrol panels should support theusability of mechanical circulationsystems.

Provide escalators and movingwalkways to move large numbers ofpeople quickly and overcome longdistances.

Limit the use of platform lifts to provideaccess to existing buildings where it isnot feasible to install ramps.

Tips:

Telephone keypadlayouts are wellknown to everyone.They reduce thespace needed forcontrols in very tallskyscrapers wherethe number of floorsexceeds the spaceavailable for controlson the panel. Theyalso can be keptwithin a morecomfortable reachrange.

28

Moving walkways that allow use in awheeled mobility device

Inclined moving walkways asalternatives to escalators

Operable parts of all calling buttonsand control panels between 35 inches(890 mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm)to serve all users

Platform Lifts

Ensure that power to lifts will not beinadvertently turned off

Lifts that have a manual override toboth raise and lower the platform if itmalfunctions

Lifts located under overhangs or otherclimate protected areas for outdoorplacement

Escalators and Moving Walkways

Elevators in proximity to escalatorswhere they are provided

All steps with uniform riser heightsand uniform tread widths

No open risers on stairways

At least 11 inches (280 mm) for stairtreads depth measured from riser toriser

Nosings that project no more than 1½ inches (38 mm) and haveundersides sloped at 60 degreesfrom the horizontal

Handrail height between 34 inchesand 38 inches (865 mm and 965mm)

Access ib le

Many buildings have level changesbeyond the allowable height. When anelevator is not a practical solution (e.g.change in level of a few inches),designers frequently use ramps or stairsto provide access to these areas. Eventhough the change in level may beslight, if not designed properly, peoplecan find negotiating ramps and stairsdifficult and dangerous.

Ramps and Stairs

Tips:

A broom finishedconcrete ramp isconsideredsufficiently slipresistant to complywith accessibilitycodes.

Continuous handrailsat both sides andends of handrails,have unobstructedgripping surfaces andare rounded orreturned smoothly tofloor, wall or post.

Key Design Goals29

Clear space of 1-1/2 inches (38 mm)is provided between handrails andadjoining walls

Where handrails end, they extend12 inches (305 mm) beyond the topriser of the stairs and the landing ofthe ramps and 12 inches (305 mm)plus the width of one tread beyondthe bottom riser

Ramp at least 36 inches (915 mm)wide and landing at least 60 inchesby 60 inches (1525 mm by 1525mm)

Protect pedestrians from hitting theirheads on the underside of freestanding stairways

Tips:

Avoid winders andcurved stairways.

The easiest way tomeasure a rampslope is by using adigital level. Makesure the level iscalibrated properlyand test the slope inat least three places;near the bottom, themiddle and the top.Use the steepestslope as the actualmeasurement since the slope of the rampcan vary along itslength.

30

Universa l

Ramps and stairways wide enoughto accommodate the expectedtraffic flow which may exceedminimum required width

Stairways have no more than 10risers between landings

Seating at landings of long rampsand stairways

Handrails, treads and walkingsurfaces evenly illuminated withoutstrong shadows

Slip resistant traveling surfaceswithout impeding the mobility ofwheelchairs, strollers and otherwheeled devices

Treads on stairways no deeper than14 inches (355 mm) and risersbetween 4 inches (100 mm) and 7inches (180 mm) high

Tactile indicators on railings likegrooves or bumps to mark thebeginning and end of a stairway,changes in direction or location ofspecific facilities

Ramps with a less than 1:12 slope, whichare more manageable

Where stairs are provided, they shouldbe as safe as possible for all peoplewho may choose to use them.

Minimum clear width of 36 inches(915 mm) except at doors

Passing spaces at least 60 inches(1525 mm) by 60 inches (1525 mm)wide at reasonable intervals notexceeding 200 feet (61m) apartwhere an accessible route is lessthan 60 inches (1525 mm) wide

Clear width of at least 32 inches(8155 mm) at doorways

At least 80 inches (2030 mm)minimum clear headroom at hallwaysand corridors

Access ib le

Although hallways and corridors areoften thought of as transitional spacesthat connect rooms, they can be achallenge if not designed properly.Poor lighting, protruding objects andnarrow spaces are just a few featuresthat can render hallways and corridorsboth dangerous and unusable.

Hallways and Corridors

Tips:

Avoid carpet andunderlaymentcombinations that aresusceptible tobuckling. They cancause tripping andimpede the use ofwheeled mobilitydevices.

Intersections ofcorridors can serveas passing places aslong as eachconnecting link is atleast 36 inches (915mm) wide.

Key Design Goals31

Stable, firm and slip-resistant floorsurfaces

Carpet with no more than pile heightof ½ inch (13 mm) and is securelyfastened to the floor

Objects with leading edges between27 inches (685 mm) and 80 inches(2030 mm) protrude no more than 4inches (100 mm) into hallways orcorridors

Exterior stairs designed so waterdoes not accumulate on walkingsurfaces

Tips:

Detectable warningsare textured surfacesapplied to helppeople with severevisual impairmentslocate hazardousareas in the path oftravel.

Exterior stair treadscan be sloped slightlyto drain.

Drains can belocated to drainmovewater awayfrom the bottomlanding of thestairway.

32

Universa l

Stairways kept out of the direct pathof travel

Ramps running in the direction ofnormal travel

Hallways and corridors wide enoughfor two people traveling in theopposite direction to pass eachother

All corridors and hallways evenlyilluminated

Gradual transitions from dark tobright spaces, especially those thathave high levels of naturalillumination

Paths of travel distinguished withmaterial, floor textures or colordifferences to assist in orientation

Also Refer to:

Entering and Exiting

Provide comfortable and easymovement throughout the building.

Use markers, signs, and otherinformation devices to facilitatewayfinding.

Curb ramps located within theboundary of the marked safecrossing area including any flaredsides

Gratings located on walkingsurfaces with spaces no greater than½ inch (13 mm) wide in onedirection

Islands that occur within the path ofa marked crossing are cut throughlevel with the street or have curbramps at both sides and a levelarea of at least 48 inches (1220mm) between the curb ramps

Traffic intersections often pose serioussafety concerns for people of allabilities. However, these fears areoften exacerbated for people withlimited abilities. Improvements tointersections' signage, as well as thecondition and length of street crossingscan help to alleviate these concerns.

Provide continuity for pedestrians bybridging vehicular areas with a safe,accessible path of travel.

Street Crossings

Tips:

Diagonal curb rampsare allowed byaccessibility codesbut are notrecommended. If theyare used, a 48 inch(1220 mm) long run-off area should beprovided within thesafe crossing area atthe bottom of thecurb ramp.

Place gratings withelongated openings,so that the longdimension isperpendicular to thedominant direction oftravel.

Universa l

Key Design Goals33

Access ib le

Reduce pedestrian crossing distance on major crossing routes byproviding expanded corners and/orsafety islands

Storm drains located outside markedcrossings

Clearly mark boundaries ofcrossings using permanent materialslike thermoplastic strips or a changeof paving material, e.g. brick incontrast to concrete or asphaltroadways

Pedestrian crossing signals provideenough time for slower movingpeople to cross

Visual and auditory crossing signalsat all busy crossings

Higher illumination levels in the safecrossing area

Signals timed to insure that slowermoving pedestrians will be able tocross the street safely

Sonic beacons or Talking Sign®technology installed to guide peoplewith visual impairments across thestreet

Use pedestrian barriers to controlcrossing locations in areas wherethere are particularly high levels ofpedestrian traffic that overloadsidewalks and add to trafficcongestion

Tips:

Talking Signs® or"remote infraredsignage," use infra-redtransmitters and specialreceivers tocommunicate orientationand directioninformation. The City ofSan Francisco hasimplemented talkingsigns at manyintersections in thedowntown area. Theyprovide moreinformation than sonicbeacons and canprovide very precisedirectional information.

www.talkingsigns.com

34

"All stop" signal period whentraffic from all directions comes toa stop and pedestrians can cross inany direction within the intersection,including diagonally. This reducesthe number of pedestrian crossingcycles by 50% althoughpedestrians have to wait longerbetween cycles

Provided whenever an accessiblepathway meets a curb

Slopes no greater than 1:12wherever an accessible route crossesa curb

Flush transitions at the top and bottomwithout abrupt changes

Maximum slopes of adjoining roadsurfaces not exceeding 1:20

Width of the curb ramp, not includingthe flared sides, at least 36 inches(915 mm)

A curb ramp is one tool that canimprove the safety and usability oftraffic intersections. In addition toenhancing pedestrians' safety, curbramps permit people using wheelchairsor pushing a stroller to more easilycross the street.

Design curb ramps to promotepedestrian safety and provide asmooth transition in level changes.

Curb Ramps (Curb Cuts)

Tips:

Built-up curb rampsshould not project intovehicular traffic.

Key Design Goals35

Access ib leStable, firm and slip resistant surface

Flared sides with a maximum flareslope of 1:10 where pedestrians mustwalk across a curb ramp

Narrow curb ramps located to theside of marked crossings

Curb ramps located where they willnot be obstructed by parked vehicles

Safe islands in crossings cut throughlevel with the street or have curbramps on both sides and a level areaof at least 48 inches long betweenthe curb ramps in the part of theisland intersected by the crossings

Curb ramp design standardizedthroughout a site, an urban district ora city

Detectable warnings extending thefull width and depth of the curbramp, contrasting in color with thewalking surface and constructedfrom a material that provides adistinctly different sound whentapped by a cane

Eliminating curbs entirely atintersections where unimpeded flowsof pedestrians are desirable

Universa l Tips:

Cane and guide dogusers are trained tofind curbs at theedges of sidewalks.However, where thereare no curbs, like atcurb ramps, there isconcern that the canetraveler may miss theedge of the sidewalkand step out intotraffic.

36

Bollards and chains used to protectpedestrians where there are nosidewalks to separate vehicular andpedestrian traffic. This approachalso helps people with visualimpairments find street crossings

Returned curbs without flares wherepedestrians would not normally walkacross the ramp, for example, wherethere are plantings or utility poleson both sides of the curb ramp

At least two areas of rescueassistance with waiting spaces for atleast two wheelchairs within a smokeproof enclosure at all floors exceptthose that have accessible means ofegress

No less than 30 inches (760 mm) by48 inches (1220 mm) space for eachwheelchair to be accommodated

At least one wheelchair space forevery 200 people per story

Two-way communication deviceprovided between the area ofrescue assistance and the primary

Access ib le

In all facilities, especially multi-storybuildings, emergency egress is a majorconcern. While codes haverequirements to help people exit abuilding quickly and safely, theyneglect the fact that everyone is“impaired” during an emergencysituation since conditions are unusual.

Provide both good escape routes andplaces of refuge for emergency use.

Escape and Refuge

Tips:

Local authorities mayreduce the minimumnumber of wheelchairspaces to one foreach area of rescueassistance on floorswhere the occupantload is less than 200.

The fire departmentor other localauthority mayapprove a locationfor two-waycommunication deviceother than at aprimary entry.

Key Design Goals37

entry with both audible and visualsignals

"Area of Rescue Assistance" sign withthe International Symbol ofAccessibility in each area of refuge

Area of rescue assistance signilluminated when required andadditional signage posted atinaccessible exits indicating thedirection of areas of rescueassistance

Areas of rescue assistance withinstructions for use during anemergency

Tips:

Facilities should keepa list of all peoplewho work or live inthe building whowould need helpleaving in anemergency. It shouldindicate the floor andlocation so firemenknow where peoplemay be waiting forhelp.

Since smoke rises,emergency exit signsat low levels areeasier to see whentrying to escape abuilding during a fire.

38

Universa l

All accessible entrances designed toserve as emergency egress routes aswell

Reserved stairway for the fireservice

Total building sprinkler system

Elevators designed to be safe foremergency egress

Two-way emergency communicationsin all remote areas

Evacuation plan for people whoneed assistance in an emergency

Directional signage when thedirection of emergency egress is noteasy to understand

Visual and audible signaling systemsunder fire service control to helpdirect people along the best routegiven the building condition at anyone time

Public address system for use by thefire service to give instructions duringan emergency

Supplemental illuminated exit signsnear floor level

55Entering and

Exiting

The act of entering and exiting a building is more involved than simplyopening and closing a door. There are many variables involved in theprocess that can cause difficulty for even the most intelligent and able-bodied person. Prior to entering a building, users must determine wherethey are, locate where they want to go, establish the best route to getthere, locate the appropriate entrance and negotiate the path of travel to the entrance. Once they arrive at the entrance area, users must attemptto proceed through the doorway to enter the building and eventually findtheir way out. Accomplishing all of these tasks successfully and in a timelymanner in a complex building can be challenging, but a well-designedcirculation system can make the process more manageable.

The ADA Guidelines and otheraccessibility codes do not includestandards for locating destinations,although if signs are used, they must comply with rules for character proportion, characterheight, finish, and contrast

People who are unfamiliar with afacility need to identify theirdestination in order to devise astrategy for finding it. Once they havea plan, they must execute it withoutbecoming disoriented. Architecturalelements, landmarks, signs and otheruniversal design features all play animportant role in determining howeasily users find destinations.

Establish a circulation system thatprovides a direct path of travel to

Finding the Building

Tips:

When using signs and other visual cues,it is important toavoid visual clutter.Too many signs notonly detract from theaesthetic quality of aspace, but can beoverwhelming andcreate unnecessaryconfusion.

Key Design Goals41

Access ib le

Also Refer to:

Wayfinding

Universa l

42

Signs at major vehicular entrancesthat are simple, functional andreadable at distances and speeds of moving vehicles

Immediate and easily detectableinformation center provided atprominent site entry points and other decision making areas

Talking Signs® that help providedirections and identify objects forpeople who are visually impaired

Orientation maps for motorists,pedestrians and bicyclists at majorintersections

Landmarks such as canopies, plazas,columns, fountains, flagpoles, statues,etc., that add identifiable features to buildings

Building names and logos in largesize mounted in locations where they can be easily seen from primary vehicular and pedestrianaccess routes

all facilities and is identifiable,understood and usable to everyone.

Provide a comprehensive sign systemthat includes directories, maps, andgraphics to assist in finding destinations.

Include key landmarks in the site orbuilding design.

Tips:

The concourse of TheLincoln Center for thePerforming Arts is aneffective landmark. Alarge circular fountainis located near thedrop off area onColumbus Avenue and is visible frommost areas within themulti-level complex.With many buildingsand plazas on thesite, it is a valuablephysical landmarkand a highly visiblepoint of reference.

No accessibility requirements thataddress identification of entrancesand exits from the exterior

Accessible entrances marked with theInternational Symbol of Accessibilityif not all are accessible

Sign directing people to anaccessible entrance if entrance is not accessible

After finding the building, users mustbe able to identify where the entrances are before approaching.At large complex sites, the task oflocating entrances and exits can bechallenging, especially when there aremultiple points of entry/exit or visitorsare unfamiliar with the layout. This isparticularly relevant to those peoplearriving by automobile. Motoriststypically try to unload people as closeto an entrance as possible, so they mustbe clearly identifiable from a distance.

Identifying the Entrance

Tips:

The key to makingentrances identifiableis to provide visualinterest. One methodfor doing this is toprovide an entranceatrium that not onlyintroduces natural lightinto the building butalso reveals activityinside the building.They not only serve as landmarks andenhance wayfindingfor those approachingbut also function as arecognizable point ofreference to peoplewithin the building.

Key Design Goals43

Also Refer to:

CirculationWayfinding

Access ib le

Directional signage that guides users towards entrances and exits

Higher than normal lighting levels atentrances to make it easier for usersto identify points of entry and toenhance safety

Materials, color and form todifferentiate the entrance from therest of the building

Different roof line above entrance to create a hierarchy among theparts of the building

Clear visual access to buildingentrances from points of site entry

Alternative glazing applications that make entrances distinguishablewhen glass panels are used on the building facade

Non-reflective glass and othersurfaces to prevent them frombecoming a source of glare

Paving, plant material, and other site elements that can be used toguide pedestrians

Tips:

Many facilities havea main entrancewhich they use as aformal entrance forthe public andsecondary entrances,which are purelyfunctional and usedby staff. When thereare multiple buildingentrances, they shouldbe clearly identifiedwith signs to describetheir function, e.g."Delivery Entrance,""Staff Entrance," and"Visitor Entrance."

44

All public entrances recognizable to all types of users regardless of theirabilities.

Entrances clearly distinguishable forboth people arriving by foot orautomobile.

Universa l

60 inches (1525 mm) clear width,passing spaces at least 60 inches(1525 mm) by 60 inches (1525 mm)located at reasonable intervals notto exceed 200 feet (61 m)

Cross slope of an accessiblepathway not exceeding 1:50

At least one accessible route withinthe boundary of the site from publictransportation stops, accessibleparking spaces, passenger loadingzones, and public sidewalks to anaccessible building entrance

All accessible spaces, venues, andelements within the facility or siteconnected with an accessible path oftravel

Clear width of pathways at least 36 inches (915 mm) wide

Accessible pathways with less than

Once the user identifies the point ofentry or exit, they must be able tonavigate to their intended destination.Accessibility requirements for paths oftravel address the actual routes onewould take in approaching the doorand ensure that there are noobstructions or level changes that wouldimpede access. But access codes do notaddress user preferences and decision-making abilities. Although standardsare necessary for ensuring basic access,they only address the needs of aportion of the population.Incorporating universal design

Approaching the Entrance

Tips:

Many older buildingshave grand staircasesat the front entrancethat designate themain point of entry.Although this featuremakes them easilyidentifiable, they arenot usable by peoplewho cannot climbstairs. Whenalternative publicentrances aredesignated foraccessibility, routesshould be at least asconvenient to thoseserving the primaryentrance.

Key Design Goals45

Access ib le

Tips:

Wherever paths oftravel are sloped,provide a levelsurface at thebeginning and end of the grade change.The landing areashould not infringe onmaneuvering space.

Transitional spacebetween interior andexterior environmentscould take placeindoors (as a bright,temperate foyer oratrium) or outdoors(as a shaded orsheltered walkway).

46

Smooth, paved pedestrian pathwaysapproaching all buildings to supporteasy movement

Waiting areas along lengthy pathsthat don’t obstruct movement

Gradual slopes for grade changesthat are not greater than 1:20,eliminating the need for a ramp with handrails

Pathways free of overhanging trees,bushes, debris, and other temporarybarriers that impede people fromusing them

features relating to spatial organization,multi-sensory information, etc., willimprove users' abilities to easilyapproach the entrance or exit.

Enable all users to approach entrancesor exits with clearly perceptible spatialorganization.

Make facilities manageable and safe toboth pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

Design pathways that facilitate ease ofmovement without any obstructions orabrupt change in level.

Surfaces that are slip-resistant andprevent water from accumulating

Tactile guide strips that have raisedmarkers indicating a safe path oftravel

Heated walkways that eliminateslipping hazards

Adequate illumination along allpathways and stairs that preventaccidents after dark

In large buildings, at least two doors designated as either "entry"or "exit" for traffic traveling in opposite directions

Universa l

No revolving doors and turnstiles as part of the accessible route unlessthere is an accessible door or gateadjacent that facilitates the same use pattern

When a door is open 90 degrees,a clear opening at least 32 inches(815 mm) measured between theface of the door and the door stopon the latch side

When openings are more than 24inches (610 mm) in depth, clear width of at least 36 inches (915 mm)

Maneuvering clearances at doors asillustrated on the next page

Often the impediment to using an entranceor exit is the width of the doorway.Although the ADA Guidelines haveminimum requirements for door openings,many people still have difficultynegotiating entries. The clear openingrequirement of 32 inches (815 mm)accommodates average sized wheelchairs,which are 25 inches (635 mm) to 28inches (712 mm) wide, but wheelchairs areavailable from 20 ½ (525 mm) inches to34 ¾ inches (885 mm) wide. People whouse larger wheelchairs find it difficult, ifnot impossible, to maneuver through manydoorways without hitting their elbows orcausing damage to door frames.

Maneuvering Through the Entrance or Exit

Tips:

Door force can bemeasured with adoor force gauge.

If there is a raisedthreshold at the door,the installation of analuminum or vinylthreshold ramp willeliminate the verticalchange in levelwithout interferingwith the swing of thedoor.

Key Design Goals47

If the doorway has twoindependently operated door leaves,at least one active leaf that providesa 32 inch (815 mm) clear openingand adequate maneuveringclearance

If there are two doors in series, clearspace between the walls at eitherend of the vestibule at least 48inches (1220 mm) plus the width ofany door swinging into the space

Doors in a series to swing in the same direction or away from thespace between them

Handles, locks, and latches operablewith one hand and without requiringtight pinching, tight grasping ortwisting of the wrist

Access ib le

48Doors not used for passage (e.g. a closet door), width no smaller than 20 inches (510 mm) but maneuvering clearances requiredto open a door still apply

Hardware mounted no higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) above thefloor (also applies to locks on doors,including dead bolts and chains)

A period of at least 3 seconds for a door with closing hardware to movefrom 70 degrees open to a point 3inches (75 mm) from the latch

Door opening force of 5 lbf(22.2N) minimum for interior doors

Compliance with ANSI/BHMAA156.10 for automatic doors

For low powered or power-assisteddoors, compliance with ANSI/BHMAA156.19; opening time no faster than3 seconds, no more than 15 lbf(66.6N) to stop door movement

Notes for Figures at right:

B: Latch side clearance (X) only requiredif door has both a closer and a latch.

C: Latch clearance can be reduced 6 in.(155 mm) if depth clearance is increased6 in. (155 mm).

D: Add 6 in. (155 mm) to depthclearance if door has both a closer and alatch.

E: Add 6 in. (155 mm) to depth clearanceif door has a closer. ADA Guidelines for Maneuvering Clearances at Doors

Pull Side Push Side

Front Approach

Pull Side Push Side

Pull Side Push Side

Hinge Side Approach

Latch Side Approach

54”

MIN

A

DC

B

FE

42” MIN

X =12” MIN

Wider openings and maneuveringclearances at doors thataccommodate different users andstyles of movement (e.g. a person in a wheelchair, a person with a dog,a child in a stroller, adults carryingbags of groceries, etc.)

Lightweight doors that can be openedand closed with very little force

Automatic sliding doors that openwithout any effort

Push-type, lever, or U-shaped handlesthat can be operated easily bysomeone with poor hand strength

People who use wheelchairs are not theonly ones who have difficultymaneuvering through doorways.People carrying packages, pushingstrollers, arthritis sufferers, small children,etc., also experience some difficulty.This may not be the result of door width but some other variable includinginadequate maneuvering clearances,hardware, thresholds, door force, etc.

Provide adequate clearances forapproach and continuous pass-throughfor all users.

Maneuvering Through the Entrance or Exit (continued)

Tips:

Automatic doors,activated throughfloor mats or sensorsare most often usedin facilities withheavy traffic (e.g.airports, hospitals,hotels, supermarkets,high rise officetowers, retail stores,etc.). Power-assistdoors, activated by a push pad or button,are designed for alower level of use(e.g., shelters,apartment buildings,health clubs, etc.).

Key Design Goals49

While the height requirement forhardware also applies to peepholesin the door, two peepholes to beinstalled for use from both seatedand standing positions

Glazing in doors to see peopleapproaching from the other side

Metal kick plate installed on thebottom of the door that preventsscratches and other abrasions byusers employing wheeled devices

Universa l

Case Study: ADA vs. Universal

ADA Compliant Door

Although the entrance shown in figures 1,

2 and 3 meets all the requirements of

the ADA Guidelines, they illustrate the

concept that people who use wheelchairs

are not the only ones who have difficulty

maneuvering through doorways.

As illustrated in figure 1, a person

pushing a baby stroller encounters

some difficulty when trying to enter.

Although there is adequate maneuvering

clearance, it is difficult to hold the door

open and maneuver the stroller through

the doorway at the same time. As

illustrated in figure 2, the person is

forced to hold the door open with her

foot so she can use both hands to

propel the stroller. Figure 3 reinforces

the difficulty encountered and effort

required.

ADA Compliant Door with Universal

Design FeaturesFigures 4 and 5 depict the same person

pushing a stroller through the entrance

and exit with ease and convenience.

The automated sliding doors are

activated by a motion sensor when

she approaches. Automated doors are

a good example of universal design

because they enable all people,

regardless of their ability, to open

the doors without effort.

Maneuvering through adoorway can be easier with

the addition of universaldesign features.

1

2

3

4

5

Accessible spaces located along anaccessible route to emergency exits or accessible area of rescueassistance

Accessible means of egress notrequired in alterations to existingbuildings

Accessible means of egress equal to the number of exits required bylocal building/life safety regulationsfor each occupiable level of abuilding or facility except inalterations to existing buildings

Strategies for successfully exiting abuilding are similar to those forentering, except that egress is sometimesdone under emergency circumstances.When a crisis occurs and egress must beswift and under difficult conditions,finding one's route can be problematic.Although primary entrances can be usedas a means of egress, current fireregulations and building codes havespecific requirements for locations ofemergency exits. While these standardsare implemented to ensure the overallsafety of the building occupants, the taskof finding these unfamiliar and seldom

Departing the Entrance and Exit Area

Tips:

The New York CityBuilding Code hasprovisions for meansof egress that are notspecificallymentioned in the ADA Guidelines, butare applicable to all buildings. Foradditionalrequirements that gobeyond those listed,refer to the mostrecent version of theNew York CityBuilding Code.

Key Design Goals51

Directional signage posted at allinaccessible exits indicating thedirection to areas of rescue assistance

Each door along a means of egressproviding clear opening width andmaneuvering clearances

A horizontal exit, meeting therequirements of local building/lifesafety regulations can satisfy therequirement for an area of rescueassistance

Areas of rescue assistance (ARA) are not required in buildings orfacilities having a supervisedautomatic sprinkler system

Access ib le

All the entrances designed to be usable for both normal andemergency egress situations

Pathway lighting system usedexclusively during emergency that guide users to exits or to the nearest area of rescue

Clearly detectable audiblemessaging system that conveydirectional information

Human assistance and evacuationplans in place for people unable to navigate independently

Multi-sensory indicators that helpdetect the exits of a building

All automatic doors with a fail-safemode so that when power fails, theystill can be used to exit

Tips:

In facilities thatprimarily servechildren, providedesign features atdifferent scales (e.g.,toilets, drinkingfountains, tables andchairs, etc.). In theexample above, thisbuilding has twosized automateddoors, which provideoptions for enteringand exiting.

52

used locations is difficult for most users.This difficulty is heightened in stressfulsituations that are likely to limitmobility and sensory abilities.

Locate means of egress where they are detectable and usable from alllocations in the building.

Design configuration of exits shouldenhance users' orientation, preventexpected congestions and enhance thesafety of user groups, particularlyduring emergency situations.

Universa l

Also Refer to:

Circulation

66Wayfinding

Unfamiliar environments makespecial demands upon us. Eventhe simplest of settings caninvolve a jumble of informationthat has to be sorted andprocessed before it becomesmeaningful

Dorothy Pollet and Peter C. Haskell

Design for wayfinding includes the communication of information to assistthe building user in finding destinations and understanding where they are at all times (orientation). This involves both design of building featuresthat assist users to find their way and maintain their sense of orientationas well as direct delivery of information. Thus there are two types ofwayfinding design strategies that reinforce and complement each otherarchitectural wayfinding design and information wayfinding design.All strategies used for wayfinding should communicate effectively to the broadest group possible including people with a wide range ofsensory abilities, intellectual abilities, literacy levels, languages andphysical statures.

Certain architectural and interior design features help users toconstruct a mental map by creating familiar models of how space is organized, by supporting access to information in all the senses and by distinguishing one place from another. There are five attributes of buildings that support the construction of accurate mental maps: (1) clearly defined paths and circulation systems,(2) markers that stand out from the general background stimuli,(3) recognizable nodes where paths intersect, (4) strong edges likewalls or landscape features, and (5) well defined zones/districts.

No ADA Guidelines that addressarchitectural wayfinding design

Paths, including walkways, hallways andcorridors, generally define the circulationsystem in a building or a site. Usually the pathsystem is organized into one of many commonmodels. If users know which one is used, theycan anticipate and predict where paths willlead. Clearly defined paths help people findtheir way more easily. In complex buildingsand sites there are usually two orders ofpathways: main pathways that connect majorspaces, and secondary pathways that leadfrom primary paths to less importantdestinations. Differences between the twoorders of paths and individual paths within

Paths/Circulation Key Design Goals55

At least one key circulation node tohelp people understand where theyare in the building through referenceto that point

An easily identifiable circulation plan that users can understand fromtheir initial contact, e.g. single loadedcorridor, double loaded corridor,racetrack layout, etc.

Primary paths that are different indesign than secondary pathways, e.g.wider, have higher ceilings, differentcolor scheme and different lighting

Universa lAccess ib le

56

Tips:

Columns, doorways,and windowsestablish a pattern tohelp people tounderstand wherethey are going. Thisenables users toanticipate where theirdestinations arelocated.

each order help people remember theirjourney through the circulation system.

Create a hierarchy of path types usingmajor architectural features like width,height and surface material.

Make the overall path system obviousto the user.

Expose important adjacent activitiesto the path, where appropriate.

Make progress toward destinationsobvious.

Nodes connected with directly bypathways

Well defined edges like walls,fences, landscaping, screens orcolumn lines to define places thepublic is welcome from places where access is restricted

Vertical circulation like ramps, stairs and elevators locatedwhere it is visible from entriesand/or major nodes

Reoccurring elements like restrooms,elevators, and exits in the same

place on each floor in multi-storybuildings

Emergency exits located in places that people pass on a daily basis

Access codes do not require anyparticular markers with theexception of signs to identify certain accessible elements.

Markers are unique features thatpeople associate with different parts ofthe building or site. A marker can be aspecial building feature like a lightingfixture, material, window or raisedceiling area. It can also be an artpiece, a window with a special view ora unique activity area like a waterfeature or even exposed equipment.They can also be multi-sensory,involving touch, smell, humidity and airmovement. Markers have to be uniquein the building or in a part of thebuilding. If there are too many, theylose their effectiveness.

Markers

Tips:

People use a "mentalmap" of a place toorient themselves andplan their trips fromone point to another.Providing informationthrough the buildingdesign itself helps tocreate an accuratemental map and thusis an importantaspect of universaldesign.

An information deskor kiosk can be a keymarker at the entryto a building or site.

Key Design Goals57

Markers located at intersections(nodes) and at locations that arehighly exposed

Markers located so that they can beperceived from as many directions aspossible

Markers positioned so that they donot physically interrupt the path oftravel

Make entrances into markers byadding features that contrast with thesurrounding building enclosure likerecesses, overhangs, and/or

Universa lAccess ib le

Tips:

A window canbecome a marker byrevealing aparticularlyinteresting view.Windows andglazing in doorsshould not createglare inside thebuilding.

58

Associate key markers with the mostimportant places in the building.

Use connections to the site to aidorientation to the surroundings.

Make key markers visible or audiblefrom a distance.

Use multi-sensory markers whereverpossible.

Avoid cluttering the building with toomany unique elements.

Also Refer to:

Destination/DirectionalInformation forWayfinding

landscapingBuilding exits marked by exposingexterior features from the interiornear or through the exit

Sound, temperature differences, airmovement, humidity, tactile stimuliand pleasant odors used to augmentvisual markers with non-visualinformation

Markers include art pieces, boldenvironmental graphics, uniqueacoustic qualities and sounds, uniquelandscape features, plants wheninside buildings, pleasant smells,

humidity changesMarkers that provide a multi-sensory experience are mostmemorable

High ceilings that provide greatervisibility for markers andfacilitate hanging markers likebanners and mobiles from above

Accessibility codes and the ADA donot have any requirements for designof nodes although a passing space isrequired every 200 feet on pathwaysand intersections can be used to fulfillthat requirement

The ADA and other accessibility codesdo not have any requirements fordesign of zone/districts

Nodes are places where paths cometogether. In buildings with many nodes,it is very important to distinguish themclearly through the use of markers andgeneral architectural features. It is alsoimportant that the level of informationprovided at nodes is not toooverwhelming, especially for first timevisitors who need to find the essentialinformation they need for finding theirway.

Districts are areas defined by aparticular character, either visual,social or geographic. In cities, districtsmight include a waterfront area, a

Nodes and Zones

Tips:

Ensure thatinformation overloaddoes not occur.

Key Design Goals59

Also Refer to:

Circulation

System of a few major nodes linked directly by major paths

Easy-to-understand circulationsystems, such as a grid, linear spine,hollow square or hub and spokeconfiguration, to help peopleestablish a clear mental map ofthe circulation system

Information content of intersectionswithin manageable levels to reduce confusion and mental workload

Multi-sensory maps of the circulationsystem provided at all primary nodes

Universa lAccess ib le

Tips:

Too many nodes in abuilding can causeconfusion and make itdifficult to rememberthe spatial layout,especially if they alllook alike.

An area with a strongidentify as a districtis easier to rememberthan one that doesnot have such anidentity.

Create zones withinthe city, on sites andin buildings that havestrong and uniqueidentities,

neighborhood on the side of a prominenthill, a historic or ethnic neighborhood, oran area with many skyscrapers. Buildingsand sites can also be designed toincorporate zones that have a strongidentity. This will help to break down thescale of large and complex facilities andeven to make parts of smaller facilitiesmore memorable.

Make intersections in the path systemmemorable places.

Include important information fordirection finding at nodes.

60

Unique character created for urban districts using sign systems,street furniture, street trees andother landscape features, e.g.Greenwich Village, Battery ParkCity, SOHO, etc.

Complex and large buildingsdivided into more understandablezones, East Wing, Sixth GradeWing, etc.

Visual identity created for eachzone in a facility that is unique andmemorable in its context

Zones in buildings identified with a zone prefix such as a letter,color, or cardinal direction.Orange-215 might be used toindicate room 215 in the Orange Zone, North-101, mightbe used to indicate North Wing,Room 101, etc.

Identifying characteristics of thezone explained with signs atprimary building entries and theentry points to urban districts

Warning strips provided along theedge of transit platforms that havecolor and texture that contrasts withthe background flooring

Continuous handrails provided onboth sides of ramps and stairsincluding landings

Edges provide a physical means toorient oneself in space. Edges includefeatures of the built environment likethe walls of buildings, the wall of ahallway or corridor or a handrail. Theyalso include landscape features like theedge of a forest or a river or aplanting strip along a sidewalk. Anedge provides a boundary that peopleuse to orient themselves in space and tokeep themselves moving in the rightdirection. Moving along the edge alsoprovides a sense of progress toward agoal if its features change periodically.Since every path has an edge, it canbe used to carry information that users

Edges

Tips:

Handrail systems aregood locations toincorporate tactileand audible signsystems. Recordedmessages can beinserted into the railwith buttons toactivate and Brailleor tactile markers canbe installed on theinside of the rail sothat they can befound easily whileusing the rail as a"shoreline."

Key Design Goals61

Also Refer to:

Curbs and Curb Cuts

Access ib le

Walls, fences and landscapefeatures used to guide people tokey destinations

Visual and tactile warning surfacesincluded at the entry to stairs in thepath of travel

All edges of walking surfacesprotected from accidental falls, e.g.edges of reflecting pools, abruptchanges in level

Contrasting building floor texturesand hardness to establish edges toguide people across undefined openareas

62

Continuous handrail systems providea natural guide for people withvisual impairments

Tactile marking systems on handrailsinform people of changes inconditions – particularly potentiallyhazardous conditions (e.g., top stepof stairs)

need to obtain along a travel path.Edges can be used at the micro-scale tomark the boundary of places intendedto be used differently. Strong edges aremuch more easily remembered thanweak edges.

Design edges to help in orientation andin wayfinding.

Incorporate strong edges to provideshorelines for navigation.

Reinforce edges in more than onesensory mode.

Universa l Tips:

Handrails canbecome majoraesthetic elements.

Signs are the most common element ofinformation systems and are often theonly type provided. There are threebasic kinds of signs: identification signs,directional signs and descriptive signs.Signs can be visual and tactile.

Provide access to several levels ofinformation content.

Adjust the amount of information tothe needs.

Information SystemDesign

Tips:

Talking signs can beincorporated into thesign system thatprovides visual andtactile signs or remainseparate as in theCaltrans terminal. Aconsensus approachshould be developedfor the locations oftalking signs in acommunity so that allpeople with visualimpairments who usethem will know whereto search for them.

Key Design Goals63

Accessibility codes do not include anyinformation on system design

Consistent text, graphic style andlocation of signage throughout abuilding, site or campus

Mounting system that allows specificsigns to be changed easily andinexpensively

Artificial and natural illuminationdesigned to prevent glare on signage

Directional signs located where theyare most visible which is usuallyoverhead and perpendicular to thepath of travel

Universa lAccess ib le

Tips:

Audible signs includeinfra-red transmitters,pre-recordeddigitized messagesthat are manuallyactivated, shortrange radiotransmitters, andwireless webapproaches usinghand held orwearable computers.

64

Avoid blocking signs with buildingelements such as lights and air vents

Avoid more than five messages and five lines of text in a singledirectional sign

Familiar or easy-to-learn pictogramsused to reinforce text and to bypasslanguage-based information

Information offered in directionalsignage emphasized witharchitectural indicators such as wallgraphics or landscaping that lead tothe destination

Directional informationsupplemented with maps at keydecision points to reduce the amountof directional signage

Signs placed in transitional areas toreassure people that they are on the correct route

Floor levels and their uses (e.g.,entrances to the complex, offices,concourse, parking) clearly identifiedin elevator lobbies and at the topsof ramps, stairs, and escalators

Signs placed at intersections toensure that those coming from alldirections can detect the information

Provide directions to the informationdesk at all secondary entranceswhere there is more than oneentrance

Audible signs to provide a higher level of support fordirection finding by people withvisual impairments, especiallywhere there is no humanassistance for wayfinding

If technology is available, usetalking sign systems that canbenefit all users, e.g. hand heldcomputers that provide visual as well as audible information

Where public address systemsare used to broadcast eventschedules, announcements,pages and emergency conditions,provide monitors, electronicmessage boards or other forms of dynamic information with thesame information in visual form

Characters have a width-to-heightratio between 3:5 and 1:1 and astroke-width-height ratio between1:5 and 1:10 based on the lowercase "X"

Tactile characters and Braille on alldirectional and identification signs

High contrast letters and symbols onvisual signs and visual/tactile signs

Room numbers, letters andpictograms raised 1/32 inch(.8mm),upper case sans serif between 5/8inch (16mm) and 2 inches (50mm)high based in the uppercase letter"I"

The design of letters and numbers usedon signs and electronic displays has agreat impact on their legibility. Designfactors that affect legibility includecharacter height, stroke width, color,font type and surface characteristics.Attributes of characters that optimizetactile legibility are different thanthose that optimize visual legibility.Text on electronic displays should bedesigned specifically for use in dynamicdisplays.

Sign Content

Tips:

Where pictogramsare used, the borderdimension should beno larger than 6inches (152mm) highand be accompaniedby an equivalentverbal descriptionplaced directly belowthe pictogram.

Key Design Goals65

Raised borders not required at least3/8 inch (9.5mm) from tactilecharacters

The height of letters and numbers onvisual signs based on viewingdistance

Grade 2 Braille under the visualsigns

Access ib le

Text on electronic displays isdesigned for readability based onthe specific technology adopted e.g.CRT monitor message board, etc.

Common rather than obscure ortechnical names (e.g., Ear, Nose, andThroat rather thanOtorhinolaryngology)

Abstract or difficult to learn symbolsor pictograms avoided

Text as well as symbols orpictograms included, where possible

Color schemes that can be easily

described by name such as blue,orange, gray rather than turquoise,magenta or ochre

Red, yellow, and green reserved forpublic safety uses

Information on complex signsgrouped to increase comprehension

Consistency of arrow styles and usemaintained throughout the system.Consider the plain language optionof "straight ahead" instead of anarrow pointing up or down to avoidconfusion with "upstairs" and"downstairs"

Tips:

Light letters on adark backgroundappear larger thandark letters on a lightbackground andtherefore arerecommended fordirectional signage.

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Design signs for both visual and tactileuse.

Ensure that the sizes and proportionsof text is readable.

Ensure that the meaning of theinformation on signs is clear.

The ADA and other accessibility codesdo not have any requirements fororientation

Even in simple buildings, it is useful toprovide a map for orientationpurposes. These maps can be providedin both visual and tactile modes andcan also incorporate audible messages.

Provide information to help peopleunderstand where they are.

Provide information to help peopleunderstand the whole of the building.

Locate and design orientation aids sothat everyone can benefit from them.

Orientation Aids

Tips:

In development of aninformation systemfor wayfinding, it isimportant to maintainconsistency throughoutthe facility whileallowing flexibility toaccommodatedifferent physicalconditions as well aschange in roomoccupancy and usageover time.

Key Design Goals67

Also Refer to:

Circulation

Maps of the building or site at keynodes in the circulation system

Maps oriented to correspond with thedirection the user faces when usingthe map

"You are here" symbol to help inorientation

Key landmarks included in the site orbuilding plan

Text labels on maps correspond to thelabels used on directional anddestination signs

Universa lAccess ib le

Tips:

Resistance to weatherin outdoor settingsand to vandalism inuncontrolled settingsis important to insurestability of thesystem.

68

Familiar or easy-to-learn pictogramsto reinforce text and reduce theneed to use language-basedinformation

Tilted maps and plans displayed forpedestrian use so that people of allstatures and those who are seatedcan access them

Information desks placed nearbuilding maps and directories sothat attendants can use them toexplain directions to visitors

Exterior maps placed in locationsthat are legible from a parkedvehicle

For building directories, provide

visitors with level and roomnumbers for all destinations,listed alphabetically

All upper case text in directoriesavoided to increase legibility

Map provided on each level withroom numbers and tenantsidentified

Maps oriented with floor planwith key markers included for thelevel

Hours of service displayed in aprominent area near or on thebuilding entrance as well as in the vestibule area

Accessible toilet stalls andtelephones should be marked withthe International Symbol ofAccessibility (ISA)

Room signs mounted on the walladjacent to the latch side of theentry with the exception of doorsthat swing open in the direction oftravel and there is no wall space to the right of the double doors (if these have closers and but don'thave hold open devices, the sign can be mounted on the push side of the door)

In most buildings, users need moreinformation to find their precisedestination than the building itselfcan provide. Wayfinding informationsystems can include many differentelements. To serve a full range of users,information should be provided throughseveral senses. Contemporary computertechnology can be used to provide ahigher level of information content thanwas possible even a few years ago. Inparticular, dynamic information can beprovided that changes as events in abuilding change.

Destination/DirectionalInformation

Tips:

The Graphics ArtistGuild has developeda set of symbols foradvertising accessservices (see above).

Key Design Goals69

Mount room signs between 48 inches(1220mm) and 60 inches (1525mm)from the centerline of the sign to thefloor

Tactile text and Braille on roomidentification signs

Pictograms to mark the presencespecific accessible features, e.g.public telephones, assistive listeningsystems, etc.

Access ib le

Outdoor signage to identify allbuildings by name

Signs located for legibility from bothroadways and pathways

Floor numbers detectable at eachentrance

Room number signs beside doors sothat they can be easily detectedwhen the door is open

Public amenities (e.g., restrooms) and restaurants that are identifiedwith pictograms, text, and Braille

Multiple languages where visitorswho do not understand English areexpected

Tips:

The numbering systemused in buildingsshould be intuitiveand simple. Forexample, in multi-story buildings, allroom numbers shouldcorrespond to theirfloor number (e.g., B1for the basement, 101for the first floor, 201for the second, etc.).Even numbered roomsshould be on one sideof double loadedcorridors and oddnumbered rooms onthe other. Avoidsplitting even andodd numbers fordifferent wings.

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Provide multi-sensory destinationinformation

Accommodate different languages.

Visual alarms where audible alarmsystems are installed

Assistive Listening System (ALS) forpeople with hearing impairmentswhere a public address system isprovided

Signage to indicate the availabilityof an ALS

Event Identification

Tips:

It is surprising howmany people canbenefit from AssistedListening Systems. But,most people don’tknow what they are.Providing leafletsexplaining their usecan be helpful.

Key Design Goals71

Access ib le

There are many events that occur inbuildings that all inhabitants needto know about. During events,individuals need access toassistive devices to help them getall the information beingprovided.

Provide information on theavailability of assistive devicesfor use in meetings and otherevents.

Pictograms, text, and color-coding tolabel all emergency equipment

Standard sign shapes for specificpurposes (e.g., circles for regulation,squares and rectangles foridentification, and triangles forwarning)

Standard sign colors for specificpurposes (e.g., yellow for warningsigns, red for emergency signs ordevices, and green for lifeprotection equipment or facilitiessigns)

Information desks and kiosksidentified with signs

Monitors located in high visibilitylocations and strategic locationswhere the information will beneeded quickly, e.g. wheretransportation passengers aresearching for departing vehicles

Tips:

Protect monitorsagainst uncontrolledglare from naturaland artificialillumination.

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Provide information onscheduled events.

Ensure that emergency warningsystems are usable for all peoplein the building.

77Parking and

PassengerLoading

Zones

While architects are required to adhere to accessibility requirements in facilities, they must not ignore key design features that extend beyond the actual building. Parking andpassenger loading zones are critical components of any design and therefore deserve as much attention as building entrances orcirculation spaces. Without sufficient parking, certain people are inconvenienced, or worse, excluded. Inability to park near abuilding prevents them from participating in activities, attending anevent or purchasing products. Public facilities that provide adequateparking can make locations more usable, safe and appealing.These are all fundamental tenets of universal design.

Accessible spaces on the shortestaccessible route of travel fromadjacent parking to an accessibleentrance

Dispersion of accessible parkingspaces for buildings that haveseveral accessible entrances andeach one has adjacent parking

Accessible parking spaces asillustrated in the ADA Guidelines(refer to chart)

Parking spaces at least 96 inches(2440 mm) wide with an access

Make parking manageable and safefor both pedestrian and vehiculartraffic.

Provide options for parking inalternate lots.

Provide passenger loading zones inareas that minimize congestion.

Install signs or other identifiers forwayfinding in large parking areas.

Parking

Tips:

Two accessibleparking spaces canshare an access aisle.

Two accessibleparking spaces maynot share a reservedparking sign.

Accessible parkingspaces do not needto be provided in the main parking lot.They can be locatedin alternate locationsif they provide moreconvenience.

Key Design Goals75

aisle at least 60 inches (1525 mm)wide

Accessible parking spacesdesignated with a sign showing the symbol of accessibility locatedwhere it will not be obscured by aparked car

96 inch (2440 mm) access aisledesignated as "van accessible"below the International Symbol ofAccessibility for one in every eightaccessible spots (but not less thanone)

Level parking spots, vehicle standingspaces and access aisles with a slope no more than 1:50 (2%) in any direction

Access ib le

76

Vertical clearance of at least114 inches (2895 mm) at accessible passenger loading zonesand 98 inches (2490 mm) at vanaccessible spaces and along at least one vehicle access route from site entrances and exits

If provided, access aisles atpassenger loading areas at least 60 inches (1525 mm) wide by 240 inches (6100 mm) long parallelto the vehicle pull-up space

Curb ramps where passengerloading zones or drop-off areas are adjacent to a curb

Accessible passenger loading zoneat valet parking facilities

At least 20 percent of total spacesaccessible for facilities specializing in treatment or services for peoplewith mobility impairments

At least 10 percent accessible foroutpatient medical facilities

Tips:

Universal ParkingSpace design is an alternative to the provision ofvan accessible spaces with a wideraisle and a “vanaccessible” sign.Instead, all accessible spaces are 132 inches(3350 mm) wide with a 60 inch (1525 mm) accessaisle.

Adequate lighting in all parkingareas and at passenger loadingzones

Routes from accessible parking donot pass behind parked vehicles

In large parking facilities, colorcoded zones with easy to rememberlocator identifiers such as namesidentified on prominently displayedsigns in that area

Pedestrian pathway indicators(including signs, crosswalks, planters,bollards, etc.) that identify

Shuttle service that is equipped with a wheelchair lift to eliminate the need to travel lengthy distances in certain facilities (for example,stadiums and amusement parks),with parking that is far from anyentrance

Emergency phones at largeparking facilities

Alternate parking area for buses,RV’s and other larger vehicles

Parking (Continued)

Tips:

In certain facilities,loading zones mayhave to be located on publicstreets. Theselocations limit thedesign and use ofloading zones sincethey cannot encroachon public sidewalks.

Many times parkinglots are covered ingravel which makes itdifficult for a personusing a mobility deviceto maneuver. Allparking lots shouldhave a paved surface.

Key Design Goals77

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Tips:

Parking andpassenger loadingzone needs varydepending on thesize and function ofthe facility. In aschool for instance, itis typical for parentsto pick up theirchildren. Loadingzones often becomecongested duringpeak hours. Theseareas shouldaccommodate manyvehicles arriving atthe same time withoutimpeding the flow of traffic.

78

Easy-to-use, secure, short-term bicycle parking that does notobstruct main circulation paths

Separate entrance and exit pointsinto parking areas to eliminatetraffic

Valet parking service where parking lots are located a longdistance from building

pedestrian pathways through parking lots

Speed bumps and “slow” signsstrategically located in parking lotsto prevent speeding and increasesafety

Covered areas of parking forprotection from inclement weather

Passenger loading zones that do notimpede vehicular or passenger traffic

Temporary parking areas, such as“15 minute parking” to preventdouble parking at entrances

Also Refer to:

Circulation

88Seating

We’re really designingproducts that touch the lives ofmany different generations.

Brian Donnellydesigner

Typically, wheelchair seating in stadiums, arenas, theaters and otherpublic places of assembly are segregated in the back or front of thevenue. Often spectators are unable to enjoy the performance or eventfrom those locations. Typically they are considered the “worst seats in thehouse” yet are sold at the highest ticket prices. Not only are lines ofsight and sound quality frequently inferior to other seating areas, butwheelchair users are blocked from seeing the event when otherspectators stand.

Although the ADA mandates accessible seating areas in all places ofpublic assembly, incorporating universal design features into the overall design will ensure equal enjoyment for all spectators.

Clearance of at least 66 inches (1675 mm) wide and 48 inches (1220 mm) deep for forward orrear access and 66 inches (1675 mm) wide and 60 inches (1525 mm) deep for side access at wheelchair seating locations in a series

Wheelchair seating locations that provide comparable lines ofsight to other spectators

Wheelchair seating locations with aline of sight over standing spectators

At least one percent of all fixed seats in all seating areas must beaisle seats with removable arms on the aisle side, making it

Seating located along an accessible path of travel connectingall public areas including entrances,concessions, public amenities and exits

At least one percent of total seating wheelchair accessible

When 300 or more seats areprovided, accessible seating locations dispersed throughout allseating areas to provide options forviews and ticket prices

Companion seat provided next toeach wheelchair seating location

Provide directional signage to guidepeople to their destination.

Provide an information booth in largefacilities to provide directions andassistance.

Provide flexible spaces that can beadapted to changes in program.

Make amenities easy to locate andaccessible by everyone.

Seating Key Design Goals

Tips:

For assembly areaswithout fixed seating,the ADA requireseither a permanentlyinstalled sound systemor electrical outletsand supplementarywiring for a portablesystem.

The number ofrequired receivers forassistive listeningsystems is at least four percent of thetotal number of seats,but never less thantwo.

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Access ib le

Wheelchair seating locationsprovided in all areas, including sky boxes and specialty areas

Do not use removable temporaryplatforms to provide wheelchairseating in new facilities

easier for those with mobilityproblems (such as a leg cast) to get in and out

Seats supporting assistive listeningdevices located within a 50 foot (15 m) distance from the viewingarea or stage where fixed seatingareas accommodate at least 50 people and audible communication is integral to the use of a space

Accessible route connectingwheelchair seating areas with the stage, arena or stadium floor,and dressing or locker rooms

Signage to notify spectators ofthe availability of assistive listeningdevices

Also Refer to:

Circulation

82

Signs located throughout the facility(especially at entrances) to identifythe most convenient routes toaccessible seating areas

Seats with proper support systems to prevent fatigue

Accessible seating designed as anintegral part of the seating plan sothat people using wheelchairs are notisolated from family and friends

Color coded levels of seating to helplocate seats easily. Row and seatnumbering clearly indicated by usinglarge type in high contrast to thebackground

Electric outlets located nearwheelchair seats for rechargingpower chairs

Seating (Continued)

Tips:

Removable or foldingchairs can be placedin accessible seatingareas when notoccupied by a person using awheelchair.

Key Design Goals83

Universa l

Tips:

It is often easier to make a forwardapproach into awheelchair spacethan a sideapproach,especially when they are paired.Paired spaces allow flexibility for people attending a performancetogether.Also Refer to:

Other Section

84

99Obtaining

Products andServices

The first barrier to UniversalDesign is the human mind. If wecould put a ramp into the mind,the first thing down the rampwould be the understandingthat all barriers that peopleface in the environment are theresult of narrow thinking…

George A. Covington

Buildings that facilitate access to products and services should be designed to be barrier-free, age-friendly and usable by everyone.The design should enable a person to enter, determine their destination,perform a purchase or transaction, and depart with as little difficulty as possible. Such buildings include retail stores, banks, libraries,service centers, local and state government buildings, commercial facilities, and bill payment locations. Specific examples include the UnitedStates Post Office, New York State Department of Motor Vehicles,Brooklyn Federal Savings & Loan, Bloomingdales, Con Edison CustomerService Walk-in Centers, concessions at Yankee Stadium, ticketing areas atKennedy Airport and supermarkets.

At least one accessible public entrance

Entrances, hallways, corridors and othercirculation spaces connected along atleast one accessible route

Directional signage installed at allinaccessible entrances indicating routeto accessible entrance

For Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS)devices at entries, width at least 32inches (815 mm) but less than 36 inches(915 mm) wide and no longer than 24inches (610 mm) in length

In order to obtain desired products andservices, individuals must be able tomaneuver through spaces and aislesuntil they reach their desireddestinations. Often, retail stores try tomaximize selling space by using floorand wall space for display, which cancreate severe obstacles. Floor displayscreate tripping hazards and severelylimit maneuvering space, whileprotruding objects from walls reducethe clear width of circulation space.

Entries & CirculationSpaces

Tips:

Where carpet isused, it should betectured loop or pileand be securelyattached with acushion or pad.

Key Design Goals87

At least a 42 inch (1065 mm) wide aisleand 48 inch (1220 mm) turning aisle fora turn around an obstruction (such as adisplay case) less than 48 inches (1220mm) wide

At least a 36 inch (915 mm) wide aislefor a 90 degree turn around anobstruction (such as a display case) noless than 48 inches (1220 mm) wide

Product displays protruding from wallswith their bottom edges between 27inches (685 mm) and 80 inches (2030 mm) above the floor project nomore than 4 inches (100 mm) into the aisle

At least 60 inches (1525 mm) by 60inches (1525 mm) of space to turnaround at all dead end corridors

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88

Provide easy entry for everyoneregardless of ability or stature.

Provide circulation spaces that permitcomfortable maneuvering throughoutfacility without encountering barriers.

Design circulation that facilitates accessto all products and services provided.

Sufficient space so queues will notcreate congestion in the lobby

Preview of resources in the facility withspecial exhibit, views into the building,displays and descriptions of exhibits

Seating in or adjacent to all queuingareas for people who cannot stand forlong periods of time

Access to amenities like drinkingfountains and telephones from theentrance lobby

All entries accessible

Automatic door opener at all entries,either by sensor or push pad

Transition area at entry to help visitorsget oriented to the facility withoutimpeding movement into the building

All circulation paths at least 36 inches(915 mm) wide for one-way traffic andshort paths or 60 inches (1525 mm) widefor two-way traffic

Accessible reception desk or informationbooth at entry when visitors need toregister or show identification for entry

Universa lTips:

Provide an accessibleentry serving specificspaces that are usedwhen the rest of thefacility is closed, e.g.community meetingrooms, bookstores.

Employ “you arehere" maps to orientusers once they enterthe store.

Case Study: Tenement Museum

It is important to emphasize that many types of buildings offer goods and services to the public.

As an example, the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side of Manhattan has a bookstore that

sells a wide variety of literature and gift items. They also have a schedule of tours to a restored

tenement building in the neighborhood. Not only are the items in the bookstore goods and

services but the tours themselves, which require entry fees, also fall

under this category.

The bookstore is located at their main site, an old corner storefront with high visibility. It is at

grade level with no steps at the entry. The building also houses restrooms and a room in which

videos are projected. These are also at grade level and accessible without walking stairs.

Although the main Museum site is accessible, the restored tenements are in a building that does

not have an accessible entry or elevator. The number of people allowed on each tour is limited

because of the cramped spaces in the old tenement building. As a historic structure, the crowded

spaces capture the essence of tenement life; thus, it is unlikely that full accessibility could ever be

provided to this building without significantly changing its character. Yet, the Tenement Museum

has made an effort to provide an equivalent experience for those who cannot take the tour. With

little resources, they created a book of photographs and tour descriptions that allows people who

cannot walk stairs to take a virtual tour and gain access

to the same information that tour participants would receive from their guides. Alternate

media are also available to people who have vision impairments.

Although the tour book is designed primarily for people who cannot access the tenement

buildings, it is also useful for people who may visit the Museum during a time when no tours

are available or the next set of tours are booked up. These visitors can at least read the book

and may decide to either wait, come back again at the next available tour time or visit the

museum on another day. Thus, the book not only helps the Museum achieve accessibility but it

provides a means to market their tours more effectively to everyone.

The Tenement Museum demonstrates that providing an equivalent service does not have to be

expensive. It just takes some thought and effort to create an equivalent experience. Moreover,

this requirement of accessibility can be used as an opportunity to improve service delivery to

everyone. With more resources, information technology could be used to create an even more

effective resource.

For more information on adapting historic structures and renovations, please see Section 17

Renovations and Additions.

clockwise: tour book, entry toTenement Museum main building,entry to the building where toursare conducted.

Floor area of at least 30 inches (760mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) forapproach

Reach between 15 inches (380 mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm) from the floorfor a forward approach or between 9inches (230 mm) and 54 inches (1370mm) for a parallel approach

Dispensing mechanisms operable withone hand without requiring tightgripping or twisting of the wrist

When people go shopping, they like tohave choices in the kinds of productsthey buy (e.g., brand name, size,quantity, price, etc.). Therefore,products must be located where allpeople can access them. This offers theopportunity for shoppers to makedecisions based on personal preferenceand need rather than what is withintheir reach.

Product Distribution

Tips:

Certain kinds ofstores, particularlypharmacies andsupermarkets, havecandy displays alongcheckout aisles. Oftenthey protrude beyondthe 4 inches (100mm) permitted byADA requirements.When planning thestore layout,designers should planahead for candyracks and otherimpulse shoppingitems.

Key Design Goals91

Side reach over an obstruction no higher than 46 inches (1170 mm) andno deeper than 24 inches (610 mm)

Forward reach over an obstruction nodeeper than 25 inches (635 mm)

Forward reach over an obstruction nohigher than 48 inches (1220 mm) whendepth is less than 20 inches (510 mm)

Forward reach over an obstruction nohigher than 44 inches (1120 mm) whendepth is between 20 inches (510 mm)and 25 inches (635 mm)

Access ib le

All products kept at a comfortablereach range between 24 inches (610mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm) abovethe floor so that they are reachablefrom either a standing or seatedposition

Signage above each aisle listingcontents so that products can be foundeasily without too much searching

Adequate illumination in product areasto allow people with low vision to readnames on labels, prices, productingredients, etc.

Access to shelving and other self service

displays not obstructed by displays andboxes of stock

Width of all aisles at least 60 inches(1525 mm) to allow two peopletraveling in the opposite direction topass each other

Customer service phones installed inselected aisles for assistance in findingitems, reaching shelves, price checks,etc.

Heavier items located at a lower heightfor easier retrieval

Tips:

Featured products orthose on sale locatedeasily from the entry(e.g., at the front ofan aisle, nearcheckout areas, etc.).

92

Locate items where they will not beobstructed.

Provide products within a comfortablereach range for all users.

Provide adequate illumination at allproduct areas.

Place signs to aid wayfinding.

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Waiting areas located on an accessibleroute

At least one 30 inch (716 mm) by 48 inch (1220 mm) clear floor spacefor wheelchair users to wait

In buildings where services areprovided to the public, there may beinstances where people have to wait.It is important to make waiting areascomfortable and pleasant places.

People form their opinions of a personor place based on what they see in thefirst few seconds. The waiting area isone of the first things people see.

Waiting Areas

Tips:

If there are differentdepartments within afacility, eachdepartment shouldhave its own waitingarea. For example, ina supermarket, aperson waiting for aprescription at thepharmacy most likelywill not be waiting inthe same area assomeone waiting tohave their filmdeveloped.

Key Design Goals93

Located in an area where peoplewaiting will not impede the flow oftraffic along the path of travel

Seating area provided for those whoare unable to stand for short periods oftime or when long periods of waitingare required

A system for tracking who is next in linewhen several people are in the waitingarea; both text and audio systems tonotify the next individual to be served

Access ib le Universa l

Adequate lighting for all levels ofactivity, including filling out paperwork,reading and casual conversation

Restrooms, public telephones anddrinking fountains in close proximity

Play area in waiting room to occupysmall children

Bulletin board mounted at a viewableheight whether standing or seated forinformation, announcements, policies,etc.

Tips:

Seats should becomfortable andeasy for people touse. Chairs that aretoo lowor don’t havebacks or arms makeit especially difficultfor older people tostand.

Provide a transition area between theexterior and interior facilities.

Locate where traffic congestion isunlikely to occur.

Provide access to restrooms, publictelephones and drinking fountains.

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Television monitors with closedcaptioning where long waits areexpected

Brochures, pamphlets and otherreading material placed in thewaiting room to help people bemore informed about the facility

Accessible route between store entry,hallways, corridors and service counter

Where counters have cash registers, aportion of the main counter at least 36inches (915 mm) long and no higherthan 36 inches (915 mm)

Where counters do not have a cashregister (e.g., ticketing counters, bankteller stations, hotel registration countersand box office counters), a portion ofthe main counter at least 36 inches (915mm) long and no higher than 36 inches(915 mm) or an auxiliary counter nohigher than 36 inches (915 mm) in closeproximity to the main counter or

One of the most important designconsiderations of counters and servicedesks is to allow comfortableinteraction between staff membersand visitors. Therefore, spatialorganization and features shouldensure usability by everyone.

Provide direct access from the entry toservice areas.

Allow sufficient space to conductbusiness transactions.

Service Desk & Offices

Tips:

If users are requiredto ring a bell to alertan employee, thebutton should bemounted no higherthan 48 inches high.

Key Design Goals95

provision for a shelf attached to themain counter on which a seatedindividual can write

Clear floor area of 48 inches (1220mm) by 30 inches (716 mm) at servicedesks

Access ib le

Service desk and offices located toprevent congestion along the path oftravel

Service desk strategically located closeto entry to control access

Lowered sections of counter that offerknee clearance for a seated user

Enough space for people in line tomaintain appropriate interpersonaldistances

Background noise in the reception areacontrolled enough to ensure that quiettalking is understandable by all parties

Tips:

Provide a motorizedadjustable heightsurface in one sectionof counter forincreased flexibility.

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A separate alcove or area where userscan talk discreetly to staff when theywish to speak privately

A level of privacy provided throughpartitions or other measures at counterswhere transaction requires confidentialinformation to be exchanged

Areas around counters that provideenough space to accommodate differentpatterns of use

Include provisions for privacy andnoise containment.

Locate horizontal work surfaces at acomfortable height for all users.

Provide discussion areas that establishequitable relationships.

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Access aisle at least 36 inches (915 mm)wide between parallel edges of tablesor between a wall and the table edges

Food service lines at least 36 inches(915 mm) wide with a preferred clearwidth of 42 inches (1065 mm) to allowpassage around a person using awheelchair

Where there are fixed tables, at least5%, but not less than one, of the fixedtables to be accessible

Self-service shelves and dispensingdevices for tableware, dishware,condiments, food and beverages locatedno higher than 48 inches (1220 mm)

Dining areas that require self-serviceare often difficult, if not impossible, formany people to use. After purchasingfood, people typically carry items on atray to their seat. This is especiallydifficult if there is not adequateclearance through the dining area. Also,carrying a tray requires gooddexterity, strength, balance and theability to grasp.

Dining Areas

Tips:

Dining areas typicallyserve a large numberof people duringshort periods of time.There are definedtask areas includingfood service lines,seating area, andcheckout that shouldbe usable byeveryone.

Key Design Goals97

above the floor for a forward approachand 54 inches (1370 mm) above thefloor for a parallel approach

Self-service shelves and dispensingdevices provided on a table no higherthan 48 inches (1220 mm) above thefloor to permit access by everyone

Tray slides mounted no higher that 34inches (865 mm) above the floor

Only one level of multi-level facilitiesrequired to be accessible if the sameservices and amenities are provided onall levels

Access ib le

Seating that is both movable andremovable for the highest level offlexibility

Areas around food service linesadequately spaced to prevent trafficcongestion and accommodate widerpatterns of use

Lowered counters at cash registers to ensure usability by everyone

Routes of travel defined with flooringmaterials to prevent congestion neartask areas

Lifts or elevators connecting all levels

Non-slip flooring along circulation paths

Tips:

Condiment, straw andnapkin dispensersshould be usable byanyone withouthaving to lift,squeeze or pinch amechanism to obtainitems.

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Provide adequate maneuvering clearances atfood service lines and at seating areas.

Provide equal access to food items,condiments, straws, silverware, etc.

Provide a comfortable eating environment.

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ADA Requirements include located on anaccessible route, have enough space toaccess machines and have operableparts

All transaction machines operable withoutvision

Same level of privacy of input andoutput provided to all individuals usingthe equipment

Input

Key surfaces offset from the surroundingsurface by 1/25th inch (1 mm), maximumradius of 1/50 inch (0.5 mm) andtactually discernible

Information Transaction Machines (ITMs)include any interactive terminal inwhich the primary purpose is toaccept input from a user, displayinformation, and/or dispense media.Such machines include automatic tellermachines or cash machines, postagestamp dispensers, fare machines,automated airport check-in machines,and information kiosks.

Information TransactionMachines

Tips:

Drive-up onlymachines are exemptfrom clear floorspace, operableparts and visibilityheight requirements.

Controls must beoperable withoutrequiring tightgrasping or twistingof the wrist.

Key Design Goals99

Minimum space of 1/8 inch (3.2 mm)between keys

Function keys separated from the keypadequal to a distance that is not less thanthree times greater than the actualdistance between the numeric keys

Numeric Keys

Numeric keys arranged in a 12-keytelephone keypad layout with the numberone key in the upper left hand cornerand the number five key marked by asingle raised dot

Numeric keys arranged in the order of‘enter’, ‘clear’, ‘cancel’, ‘add value’, and‘decrease value’ horizontally from left toright or vertically from top to bottom

Access ib le

Function Keys

Add value and decrease value groupedwith other function keys, where provided

Tactile markings for functions - e.g.raised circle for ‘enter’ or ‘proceed’,raised vertical line or bar for ‘clear’ or‘correct’, raised "x" for ‘cancel’, raised"+" for ‘add value’, and raised "-" for‘decrease value’

Color coding function keys - e.g. greenfor ‘enter’ or ‘proceed’, black for ‘clear’or ‘correct’, red for ‘cancel’, blue for‘add value’, and yellow for ‘decreasevalue’

Output

Visual and audible instruction foroperations initiated by user

User input and transaction prompts

Audible instructions provided through a telephone handset,wireless transmission system or standard mini-jack

Video display screen visible from 40inches (1015 mm) above the floor infront of the machine with contrastingcharacters 3/16 inch (4.8 mm)

For machines that provide papercurrency, bills dispensed in descendingorder with lowest denomination on top

Options where a receipt is available:printed receipt, audible presentation ofthe transactional information provided on the receipt, or both

Tips:

Each operable partshould be able to bedifferentiated bysound or touchwithout activation.

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Simple, uncomplicated interface designthat is easy for everyone to use andmakes less demand on visual capacity

Instructions for use in alternative formats(e.g. text, Braille, voice)

Input slots that allow for the insertion ofbank cards, credit cards, cash, etc.,without the need for fine motor control

Adequate lighting for all controls anddirections

Adjustable display screen to reduceglare and optimize contrast

Both visual and audio feedback on all

Universal design goes beyond thebasic requirements to address thedesign features that make the machinemore usable:

Provide a simple, intuitive interface.

Provide easy to use controls.

Equip with tactile and audio feedback.

Provide instructions and information inalternative formats.

InformationTransaction Machines

Tips:

Banks should haveheadsets availablefor general use sothat visually impairedpeople do not haveto carry aroundearphones to use withaudio enabled ATMs.

Provide enoughspace for both sideand front reachapproaches for anyuser whether standingor sitting.

Key Design Goals101

transactions to reinforce correct choices

Back-up and cancel modes to providethe option of correcting entry mistakes

Standard connector for headphones orpersonal listening devices (e.g., phone-like handset) which mute the externalspeaker when product delivers audiooutput

Interference with hearing technologies(e.g., hearing aids and cochlear implants)should be kept at a minimum

Knee clearance to provide a forwardapproach by those in a seated position

Universa l

Controls and money dispensing areaslocated within a comfortable reachrange for all people whether seated orstanding

User guides in alternate languages,availability of alternative formats ormodes, voice and TTY numbers forreceiving technical support and customerservice in close proximity to ITM

Tips:

If there is motion ofgraphics or text,provide at least onemode wherepresentation ofinformation is staticor a control to adjustthe pace.

102

Compliance with Title III of the ADAGuidelines allows assistance in existingbuildings where parts of the facility arenot accessible

Examples of assistance include, butare not limited to:

Retrieving merchandise from inaccessibleshelves or racks

Providing curb service or home delivery

Clipboards to provide a flat writingsurface when counter is too high

Assistance in dialing the telephone foroutgoing calls

Staff assistance is not somethingexclusive to people with disabilities.Often products are difficult to reach orlocate, especially if people areunfamiliar with the layout of the store.Since all facilities that offer productsand services strive for customersatisfaction, they should implement auniversal service that provides access toall products.

Provide signs at the entry indicatingthe type of services available.

Provide a staffed information desk.

Staff Assistance

Tips:

Do Not:

Care for serviceanimals

Provide customerswith wheelchairs,hearing aids, etc.

Asssistance of apersonal natureincluding eating,toileting, or dressing

Transactions thatimpede onconfidentiality, e.g.ATM or debit cardPIN code

Key Design Goals103

Access ib le

Signs located in appropriate areasindicating that assistance is available,e.g., self-service equipment areas(photocopiers, computers and audiovisualequipment) and retrieving items fromhigh shelves

Centrally located information desk wherepeople can get general information,directions, have questions answered,assistance in the usage of self-serviceequipment, etc.

Service desks that could accommodateseated users, when required

Policy instituted where any user can geton-site personal assistance byappointment

Tips:

Most people do notwant assistance so itis unlikely that suchservices will beabused unless theenvironment makes itdifficult for people toobtain what theywant by themselves.

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Universa l

00Using Public

Amenities

The essence of universal design lies in its ability tocreate beauty and mediateextremes without destroyingdifferences in places,experiences, and things.

Bill Stumpf & Don Chadwickdesigners

Public amenities are essential to the experience of any building, facility or space serving the community or general public. The ADA Guidelinesand other accessibility codes have specific requirements for toilets,telephones and fountains, while other public amenities not specificallymentioned (e.g. public information displays and garbage receptacles) still must comply with accessible paths of travel, clearances, and heights.

Strictly following accessibility guidelines make facilities more usable for people with disabilities but does not address other issues affecting the general population. For example, the ADA requires at least oneaccessible toilet stall in restrooms but does not account for the totalnumber of standard stalls in high occupancy areas like stadiums andarenas, some of which can hold up to 80,000 people. Women endurelong lines waiting to use restrooms, while lines at men’s restrooms are often nonexistent. As a result, many states have enacted the “potty parity”law which calls for the installation of more women’s stalls in the restroomsof newly-constructed or remodeled sports or entertainment facilities.The law has been passed in New York, California, Florida, Texas,Pennsylvania, Washington and Tennessee and legislation is pending in many others. In New York, the ratio of required women's toilets to men'stoilets (not including urinals) is approximately 2:1. The “potty parity” lawsupports the comfort, convenience and enjoyment by everyone, therebymaking it a good example of universal design.

11

Toilets

Public restrooms located on anaccessible route

An unobstructed 60 inch (1525 mm)diameter or T-shaped turning space for a single user restroom

Centerline of the toilet between 16 inches (405 mm) and 18 inches (455 mm) from a side wall or partition

The ADA Guidelines and otheraccessibility codes have extensiverequirements for all parts of publicrestrooms. These requirements focus onwheelchair access. Universal designexpands on these basic functionalrequirements to provide a higher levelof convenience and more flexibility toaccommodate a wider range of usergroups.

Locate in areas where the highest levelof activity occurs.

Public Restrooms

Tips:

If the toilet is next toa lavatory, a 24 inch(610 mm) grab bar isacceptable.

All flush controls and faucets must beoperable with onehand without tightgrasping, pinching,or twisting of thewrist.

In the dimensionshere, we have addedsome generallyaccepted tolerancesfor toilet placementand grab bar width.

Key Design Goals107

Clear floor space at least 48 inches(1220 mm) wide by 66 inches (1675 mm) long if the toilet isapproached from the front and there is a lavatory alongside the toilet

Clear floor space at least 48 inches(1220 mm) wide by 56 inches (1420 mm) long if the toilet isapproached from the side and there is a lavatory alongside the toilet

Clear floor space at least 60 inches(1525 mm) wide by 56 inches (1420mm) long for a side approach if there is no lavatory alongside the toilet

Access ib le

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Top of the toilet seat between 17 inches (430 mm) and 19 inches (485 mm) from the floor and without automatic spring back to an open position

36 inch (915 mm) grab bar mounted on the back wall with one end at least12 inches (305 mm) from the centerlineof the toilet for water closets notlocated in a stall

Side bar at least 42 inches (1065 mm)long with the front end 54 inches (1370 mm) from the back wall

Grab bars mounted horizontallybetween 33 inches (840 mm) and 36 inches (915 mm) above the floor

Diameter of the grab bar between 1-1/4 inch (32 mm) and 2 inches (51 mm) or shaped to provide anequivalent gripping surface

Space between the grab bar and the wall at 1-1/2 inches (38 mm)

Grab bars do not rotate within their fittings and are free of any sharp or abrasive elements

Flush controls mounted on the open side of toilet no higher than 44 inches(1120 mm) above the floor

No doors should swing into the required clear floor space at anaccessible fixture

Make entering and exiting as effortlessas possible.

Design restrooms to provide flexibilityfor individual user needs.

Provide dispensers, controls, and fixtureswith easy to reach controls.

Avoid slippery or hazardous surfaces.

Promote independent use but alsoaccommodate those who typicallyrequire assistance.

Tips:

Where the centerlinedistance from thetoilet to an adjacentwall for mounting agrab bar is no morethan 19 1/2 inches495 mm), a ledgerstrip can be used toblock out the bar soit is located closer tothe toilet.

Toilet Stalls

If five or less are provided, at least one that meets the ADAGuidelines for standard stalls.Where there are six or more,another stall that is 36 inches (915mm) wide with parallel grab barsand a self-closing, outward swingingdoor

Located on an accessible route

Stalls at least 56 inches (1420 mm)deep for wall mounted toilets

Stalls at least 59 inches (1500 mm)

Public Restrooms (continued)

Tips:

Stall doors can openin if there is enoughspace (e.g. stall atend of aisle thatextends across entirewidth of room).

Use floor mountedurinals for less mess.

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deep for floor mounted toilets

Stall door located at the open sideof the toilet

Front partition and at least one sidepartition with toe clearances at least9 inches (230 mm) above the floorfor stalls less than 60 inches (1525 mm) deep

Clear opening at least 32 inches(815 mm) measured between theface of the door and the edge of the partition on the latch sidewhen the stall door is open 90 degrees

At least 18 inches (455 mm) ofmaneuvering space at the latch sideof the stall door if the stall dooropens out at the end of an aisle

Grab bars placed between 33 inches (840 mm) and 36 inches (915 mm) above the floor

Paper dispenser mounted no morethan 36 inches (915 mm) from theback wall and at least 19 inches(485 mm) from the floor to permitunobstructed use of the grab bar

Paper dispenser allowing continuous paper delivery

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Lavatory

Where provided, at least oneaccessible lavatory

Lavatory rim or counter surface nohigher than 34 inches (865 mm)above the finished floor

Clearance of at least 29 inches (735 mm) from the floor to thebottom of the apron

Clear floor space at least 30 inches(760 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm)in front of at least one lavatory andat least one of each type ofdispenser

Area below the lavatory free ofsharp or abrasive surfaces

Insulated hot water and drain pipes

Self closing valve, if used, remainsopen for at least 10 seconds

At least one mirror with the bottomedge of the reflecting surface nohigher than 40 inches (1015 mm)from the floor

At least one accessible dispenser nohigher than 48 inches (1220 mm) fora forward approach and 54 inches(1370 mm) for a side approach

Urinals

At least one accessible urinal whereprovided

Elongated rim no more than 17inches (430 mm) above the floor

Clear floor space 30 inches (760 mm) wide by 48 inches (1220mm) deep at urinal which allows aforward approach

At least 29 inches (735 mm) betweenprivacy panels that do not extendbeyond the front edge of the urinalrim

Flush controls mounted no more than44 inches (1120 mm) above the floor

Tips:

An "elongated" toiletrefers to the shape ofthe front of a toiletbowl. Generally,elongated toilets are 2 inches (50 mm)longer than thestandard "roundfront" bowl withdimensions of 14inches (350 mm) wide by 18 ½ inches (468 mm) long fromthe center of seathole hinges to thefront outside rimedge.

Disposable toilet seat covers from a dispenser mounted at a heightreachable by all people

Floor-to-ceiling mirror usable byanyone

Shelf or ledge in stalls and atlavatories to keep personal items off the floor

Lavatory, soap and paper toweldispenser located inside a largetoilet stall for convenience

Additional family style restroom with emergency alarm to provideparents the opportunity for assistingyoung children

Toilet with an adjustable height seat

Diaper changing station in at leastone restroom at a height usablefrom both a standing and seatedposition

A hook 48 inches (1220 mm)above the floor to hang clothing

Maze-type entry system thateliminates the need for doors

Well lit entry spaces for safety

Enough stalls ("potty parity")appropriate to the function andcapacity of the building

Stall depth large enough toaccommodate luggage andbriefcases

Non-slip flooring that is designed to dry quickly and provide easymaintenance

Public Restrooms (continued)

Tips:

Use automaticcontrols, lavatories,soap dispensers,and hand dryers.These controls haveelectronic sensors that allow “no-touch”operation, making allfixtures more usableby everyone.

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Universa l

Garbage receptacles distributedthroughout building so that items to be disposed do not have to becarried long distances

Receptacles without heavy lids

Practice of emptying receptaclesoften to promote cleanliness andavoid overflow

Textural changes along the path of travel to help people with lowvision identify the location oftrash receptacles

Not specifically mentioned in the ADA Guidelines, but reach range,protruding objects and clearancerequirements apply

Located on a smooth, level surface

Operable with one hand withoutrequiring tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist

Garbage receptacles are one of themost important features in keepingbuildings clean. If people are not able to approach and use receptacles,it can create an uninviting andunhealthy environment, especially in facilities that serve food.

Place receptacles in highly visiblelocations.

Reachable and usable by everyone.

Garbage Recepticles Key Design Goals 112

Universa lAccess ib leTips:

Garbage binsattached to lampposts or wall mountedprotrude into thepath of travel andmay be undetectableto a visually impairedperson using a cane.

If recycling bins are provided,accessibilityrequirements wouldapply.

Not specifically mentioned in theADA Guidelines, but path of traveland clearance requirements applyfor approach to information displaysintended for close viewing

Letters and numbers on signs sizedaccording to viewing distance with a width-to-height ratio between 3:5and 1:1 and a stroke-width-heightratio between 1:5 and 1:10

When applicable, activation switchesthat are operable with one handwithout tight grasping, pinching ortwisting of the wrist

Physical access within a location isnot always the only obstacle. Manytravelers find it difficult to determinewhere to go and what services areavailable in places they travel to onlyoccasionally or have never visitedbefore. Maps, directories, diagramsand information displays understood by everyone make finding destinationsand services more apparent.

Public Information Displays

Tips:

Many airports use audible publicaddress systems inthe terminals to notify passengers ofboarding informationand procedures.Visual announcementsshould also appearon monitors so thatpeople with hearingimpairments are able to participateequally in theboarding process.

Key Design Goals113

Also Refer to:

CirculationWayfinding

Access ib le

Displays located where they will beaccessed and usable by everyone

Information organized in a style that is easy to comprehend

Legend or key for any pictogram,symbol or character that requiresfurther explanation

Information provided in alternateformats such as audio, Braille, largeprint, and other languages

Information in the largest practicalformat

Spacing of information to avoidinformation overload and confusion

Graphically consistent informationthroughout facility for familiarity

Tactile maps in addition to visualmaps

Talking Signs® or similartechnologies that communicatelocations through a receiver

Tips:

Strategically locatedirectories and floor plans in closeproximity toentrances, elevatorsand stairwells so that users can easilyidentify where theyare and where theywant to go inunfamiliar settings.

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2

Universa l

Organize information for intuitive useby everyone.

Make identifiable and legible from botha standing and seated position.

Provide alternative formats.

Use text to reinforce pictograms wherenecessary.

Locate along an accessible path of travel

At least one accessible telephonewhere there is one or more singletelephones located on a floor

At least one accessible telephone per bank (two or more adjacenttelephones) on each floor

Clear floor space at least 30 inches(760 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) toallow for either a forward or parallelapproach

Although the ADA does not require afacility to have public telephones, ifprovided, they must be accessible.Adding universal design features makestelephones easier to use and benefitseveryone.

Ensure clearance for a forward orparallel approach.

Mount within a comfortable reachrange.

Provide features that accommodatethe widest range of users.

Public Telephones

Tips:

If an interior bankhas three or morepublic telephones,equip at least onewith a shelf andoutlet.

Push button controlsshould be used.

If there is a base or enclosure, it shouldnot impedeapproaches totelephones by peoplewho use wheelchairs.

Key Design Goals115

Highest operable part no higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) for aforward approach and 54 inches(1370 mm) for a parallel approach

Telephones protruding from walls with the bottom edge between 27 inches (685 mm) and 80 inches(2030 mm) above the floor do notprotrude more than 4 inches (100 mm) from the wall

At least 25% and not less than oneare hearing aid compatible and have volume controls

Access ib le

Telephones distributed so they areconvenient to heavily used locationswithin the building

Telephones located in areas whereexcessive noise is not a distraction.

Acoustic barriers to control noise level in areas where noise isunavoidable

Phones designed for seated use

Volume control on all telephones

Calling card and coin slot indicated in Braille to enable those withimpaired sight to use the phone

Handset design compatible with aTDD/TTY device mounted at an angle for comfortable typing andviewing

Adequate clearance in telephonebooths sufficient to enter (accessibilityrequirements will apply), close thedoor, use the telephone and exitwithout inconvenience for everyone

Tips:

To facilitate easyaccess, equip boothswith a handrail, areflective surface tosee behind for safety,adequate lighting, afolding seat, and adoor that is easy toopen and close.

Use contrasting colors and materialsto differentiatebuttons and keys.

Equip at least onephone with a TTY,even if not required.

Provide instructionsfor use in alternatelanguages.

Equip phones withjacks for laptopcomputers thatprovide internetconnection.

Provide shelfadjacent to thetelephone for placing personalitems, writing, usingphone book,counting change, etc.

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Telephone books not higher than 48 inches (1220 mm) for forwardapproach and 54 inches (1370 mm) for parallel approach

Cord from the telephone to the handset at least 29 inches (735 mm) long

Pay telephones designed toaccommodate a portable texttelephone (TTY/TDD) equipped with a shelf providing 6 inches (152 mm) of vertical clearance and an electricaloutlet within or (adjacent) to thetelephone enclosure

At least one interior TDD/TTYtelephone if there are four or morepublic telephones on the site

Directional signage adjacent to allbanks of telephones that do notcontain a text telephone indicating the location of the nearest TDD/TTY if applicable

TDD/TTY identified by the international TDD/TTY symbol

Universa l

Located so that entering and exiting is convenient

Sidewalk behind the shelter is wide enough to handle the expectedlevels of pedestrian activity and for two wheelchair users to passeach other traveling in oppositedirections

Seats and benches that do notimpede wheelchair access ormaneuvering clearance within the shelter

Information display (schedules,timetables, maps, etc.) with

Located along an accessible path of travel connected to streets,sidewalks and pedestrian paths

Maximum slope of 1:50 (2%) forwater drainage

At least 96 inches (2440 mm) clear length and 60 inches (1525 mm) clear width at bus stoppads for the deployment of a lift

All new bus route identification signs accessible

A variety of design features can beintegrated into public rain shelters toenhance the convenience,attractiveness and usability of publictransportation. These include bothphysical (e.g., easy access andeliminating barriers) and emotional(e.g., feelings of comfort, safety andsecurity) attributes that not only makethem more usable but also encouragetraditional non-users to try publictransit. The appeal can be increasedfurther by providing convenienceitems such as public telephones andbicycle racks.

Public Rain Shelters

Tips:

Bus schedules,timetables and maps located in busshelters are exemptfrom signagerequirements.

When old bus signsare replaced, newsigns installed mustmeet requirements forcharacter proportion,character height andcontrast.

Key Design Goals117

Universa lAccess ib le

Tips:

Usability of publictransportation notonly involves thedesign of the shelter,but getting to andfrom it safely andconveniently. Streetcrossings and pathsof travel leading toshelters should beclearly marked,especially when theyare placed in park-and-ride lots.

118

contrasting colors and large print for rider assistance

Transparent shelter walls enablingdrivers to clearly see the bus stoparea when approaching

Adequate lighting at waiting areasto promote a feeling of safety

Amenities (public telephones, ATMs,trash receptacles, toilet facilities andnewspaper vending boxes) nearbyto increase convenience

Provide adequate room to enter and exit.

Provide protection in adverse weather.

Offer a safe, comfortable resting area with sufficient clearances usable by anyone.

Provide quick access onto transitvehicles.

Include features that increaseconvenience.

Stationary bicycle racks or safestorage facilities located nearby for those who prefer to ride to and from transit stops

Information in a variety of formatson waiting times for next bus

Located on an accessible routewithout being in the path of travel

Spout located at the front of the unitand no higher than 36 inches (915 mm) above the floor

Flow of water at least 4 inches (100 mm) high to allow a cup to beinserted under the flow of water

Water flow within 3 inches (75 mm) of the front edge if thefountain has a round or oval bowl

Controls located near the front edgeand operable with one hand without

Some drinking fountains and water coolers intended for people who usewheelchairs may be too low for peoplewith a limited ability to bend orstoop. Accessibility codes recognize thisand accommodate both user groups.

Provide a design that facilitatesapproach from both the front and side.

Locate near areas of high visibilityand activity (restrooms, telephones,waiting areas).

Drinking Fountains

Tips:

Wall mountedfountains with bottomedges at or below27 inches (685 mm)may project anyamount as long as therequired clear widthof an accessible routeof travel is notreduced.

Key Design Goals119

requiring tight grasping, pinching ortwisting of the wrist

Force to operate the controls nogreater than 5 lbf (22.2N)

Clear floor space at least 30 inches(760 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) infront of the unit for approach

Knee clearance at least 27 inches(685 mm) high, 30 inches (760 mm)wide and between 17 inches (430mm) and 19 inches (485 mm) deepfor wall and post-mountedcantilevered units

Access ib le

Drinking fountains grouped with other amenities (e.g., publictelephones, restrooms) to make them easier to locate

Two-tired "hi-lo" drinking fountains on each floor that are usable byeveryone

Activation that is obvious and usableby anyone (e.g. a single pushbar with raised letters convenientlylocated at the front of the unit toactivate the flow of water)

Infrared or motion sensor activation to eliminate the need to push a button

Cup dispenser provided within acomfortable reach for those whocannot drink from the fountain orneed to take medication

Vandal-resistant outdoor fountains

Outdoor model with attached petdrinking fountain appropriate forparks and playgrounds

Tips:

Drinking fountainsshould not pose ahazard to peoplewith visualimpairments. Wheredrinking fountains arelocated in a corridoror hallway, theyshould not project into the path oftravel unless they are detectable by a cane. This can beavoided by locatingfountains in a recessor alcove.

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Ensure minimum projection intocirculation space, if any.

Provide controls that are usable byanyone whether standing or seated.

Provide fountains at differing heights forpeople of different statures.

11Cultural

Facilities

When we look at theaccomplishments in universaldesign since 1990, it's obviousthat the concept is findinggrowing support, but as we all know, there is still much to be done. We need to talk about ways we can infuse theconcept of universal design intothe thinking and practices ofthose who plan and buildcommunities, own businesses,and teach in the important field of design.

Bill IveyChairman

National Endowment for the Arts

Cultural facilities include museums, galleries, zoological gardens and historic sites. They attract diverse groups of users including citizens and visitors of all ages, sizes, abilities and ethnicity. It is important to acknowledge this diversity and ensure usability by everyone. Unlike many other building types, access to information and knowledge is the key programmatic concern, in cultural facilities.

11

At least one accessible route withinthe boundary of the site from publictransportation stops, accessibleparking spaces, passenger loadingzones, and public sidewalks to anaccessible building entrance

Accessible parking spaces locatedas close as possible to an accessibleentrance

Access aisles at passenger loadingareas at least 60 inches (1525 mm)wide by 240 inches (6100 mm) long

The ADA Guidelines and otheraccessibility codes have minimumrequirements for pathways, loadingzones and parking, but exceedingminimum requirements can improveaccess to cultural resources for allvisitors, encouraging repeat visits andhelping to make these facilities valuedby all citizens.

Site Design

Tips:

Although there is no requirement toprovide accessibleparking if no parkingis on site, providingone or two accessiblespaces near anaccessible entrancemay make it possiblefor some people tovisit the facility whowould otherwise notbe able to do so.

Protect accessibleparking fromencroachment by tour buses.

Key Design Goals123

Access ib le

Minimum vertical clearance of114 inches (2895 mm) at accessiblepassenger loading zones

Clear width of pathways at least 36 inches (915 mm) wide

Firm, stable and slip resistant ground surfaces

Also Refer to:

CirculationParking

Universa l

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Continuity in the network ofaccessible pathways throughout the site

Site graded to provide gradualchanges of level and avoid the need for stairs and ramps wherever possible

If provided, parking for buses usedby tours and schools adjacent to anaccessible building entrance

Overhangs, fabric structures,protective walls, recessed entries orother means of shelter from weatherprovided where people assemble orwait

Outdoor attractions and exhibitsdesigned to provide good sight lines for visitors of different statures and for people who use wheeled mobility devices

Adequate lighting on exteriorpathways

Strategically located speed bumps or “slow” signs to warn approachingmotorists of pedestrian crosswalks

Convenient access to publictransportation stops

Outdoor seating areas for passive recreation

Tips:

Provide a stagingarea where busescan wait until theirgroups are finishedso they will not blockaccess to others orcreate noise near the main entrance.

If the site does nothave room for busparking, arrange with the City to havean accessible loadingzone designated atthe sidewalk closestto an accessibleentrance.

Ensure access from public transit,public sidewalks and other pathways,and parking, if provided.

Provide sufficient space for visitors whocome in groups, including parking fortour buses.

Enable access to information in alldisplays, exhibits and other culturalresources.

Provide year-round comfort.

At least one accessible publicentrance or where there are morethan two public entrances, at least50% of them to be accessible

At least one accessible entrancefrom parking garages, tunnels orpedestrian bridges providing access to the building

Located along an accessible path of travel

Entrances

Tips:

Service entrances can only be used asaccessible entrancesif they are used asentrances by thegeneral public aswell.

People with mobilityimpairments shouldnot have to use aseparate entrance,especially if itrequires obtainingassistance from astaff member to use it.

Key Design Goals125

The standards set forth in the ADA Guidelines make culturalfacilities more accessible to certaingroups, but minimum requirementssatisfy only a small percentage ofthe population. For example, the ADA Guidelines require that 50% ofpublic entrances be accessible.Entrances sometimes also serve as exitsIn an emergency, anyone using awheelchair or pushing a stroller has tofind the nearest accessible means ofegress. Universal design expands onthis basic requirement to provide asupportive environment for anyone.

Signs that direct the public to thenearest accessible entrance on allentrances that are not accessible

Also Refer to:

CirculationEntering and Exiting

Access ib le

Provide an introduction to theresources in the building.

Control access without reducing limiting amenities.

Provide support for transitionalactivities like purchasing tickets,waiting, learning about the facility, etc.

Automated doors at all primary and accessible entries

Sufficient space so queues will notcreate congestion in the lobby

Seating in or adjacent to all queuingareas for people who cannot stand for long periods of time

Access to amenities like drinkingfountains and telephones from the entrance lobby

Accessible entry serving specificspaces that are used when the

rest of the facility is closed,(e.g., community meeting rooms,bookstores, etc.)

Space to park carriages and service animals provided at waiting areas

Seating located near the main entry with a view of the entry and, if provided, the vehicularloading zone

Tips:

Automated slidingdoors are safer,eliminate the need for two doors (entryand exit) and increasethe available spaceinside. Sensors atautomated doorsshould be set toreduce excessive door opening causedby people walking in front of the door.If that is not possible,changing theorientation of thedoor may bedesirable.

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1

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At least one clear path of travel hat connects all public and commonuse areas

Signs, exhibits and other objectsplaced to avoid being obstructions to people passing by

The ADA and New York City BuildingCode have minimum requirementsthat affect the design of specific amenities that are found along routes and pathway surfaces. Thecodes also address the avoidance of hazards caused by protruding objects, a common problem in cultural facilities. Universal design,on the other hand addresses designfeatures that support effectivewayfinding.

Spatial Organization

Tips:

Museums often useportable posts, ropes,retractable straps,movable signs andother portablestanchions as queuingdevices at countersand entrances. Thesedevices should beplaced so that theyprovide adequateclearance tomaneuver throughand are detectableby cane users.

Key Design Goals127

Also Refer to:

Circulation

Access ib le

More than one exit from eachexhibit area

Seating area that provides a resting place without impeding the path of travel

Tips:

Avoid placingartwork and otherexhibits that havedangerous projectingelements in circulationareas, or put them onbases or behindbarriers. Mobilitycane users can easilybe injured when aprojecting object isnot within the rangeof their cane.

Make entrances easy to find.

Ensure access to all spaces within the facility.

Provide adequate resources andamenities people need to use duringtheir stay.

Make crowd control devices detectable by a cane.

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Entry that is prominent andcommunicates its function

Information desk providedimmediately inside the entry

Building interior visually accessible

Readily understandable spatialprototypes, (e.g.double loadedcirculation, raceway plan, etc.)

Amenities clustered and located off a main circulation path

Universa l

Signage requirements in the ADA Guidelines and NYC Codeapplicable only to permanent signsand restricted to room numbers (notnames), elevator controls anddirectional signs

Use of international symbols where possible

Mounting height of 60 inches (1525 mm) above finish floor tocenterline of sign on latch side ofdoor

Signage Systems

Tips:

If overhead signs areused and mustinfringe on the 80inch (2030 mm)minimum verticalclearance, a cane-detectable barrier nomore than 27 inches(685 mm) off theground should beinstalled to warn aperson before theycollide with the sign.

Key Design Goals129

High contrast signs

Letters raised 1/32 inch (1 mm)above sign surface

The height of letters and numbersappropriate to the viewing distance

The ADA Guidelines and otheraccessibility codes have minimumrequirements for accessible signage.However, in cultural facilities,particularly museums, more attentionshould be paid to making signagesystems usable by diverse groupsof visitors.

Characters that are both visual andtactile may not provide optimalconditions for reading in either mode.The horizontal position is the betterorientation for tactile signs because

Access ib le

Signs in at least two languagesbased on the expected visitor mix

Augmenting standard signs withTalking Signs®, especially where audio tours are contemplated

The same technology used for bothTalking Signs® and guided tours

System of pictograms and color-coding to identify different parts ofthe building and different exhibits

Signage systems that have slots orsleeves for replaceable inserts

Tips:

Signs that allow thefacility to producetheir own inserts aredesirable becausethey reduce the costand logisticalproblems associatedwith updating signsas things change.

Pictograms shouldreflect the content ofthe exhibit, e.g. birdsto signify an exhibitof ornithology, coinsfor exhibit of themonetary system, etc.

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Internationally known facilities toprovide major signs in English,Spanish, French and Japanese

Where more than two languagesare needed, alternate maps andbrochures in other languagesprovided to simplify signage

Signs mounted where visitors withlow vision can get close to read them

Signs not located where shadowsfrom nearby objects make textdifficult to read

reading them does not require flexingof the wrist.

Provide multi-sensory sign systems.

Deliver information in severallanguages.

Use non-textual graphic information.

Provide alternative informationsystems.

Universa l

At least one door, gate orpassageway with a minimum clearwidth and accessible floor or ground surfaces

At least one accessible path oftravel to all areas of an exhibit

Accessible path of circulation aminimum width of 36 inches (915 mm) and places large enough to turn around and pass other visitors

Tactile signs to identify parts ofpermanent exhibits

The ADA Guidelines and the New YorkCity Building Code have manyrequirements that govern the design ofcirculation in exhibits as well as thoseexhibits that require interaction by thevisitor.

Universal design can go beyond these minimum requirements to address differences in stature,perception and communication.

Exhibits and Collections

Tips:

Where two waytraffic is needed,plan enough spacefor two people topass each otherwithout touching,including people whouse wheelchairs andpeople who arepushing carriagesand strollers.

At dead ends,provide a wheelchairturning space.

Key Design Goals131

Interactive exhibits

Controls within reach rangebetween 15 inches (380 mm) and48 inches (1220 mm) above floor

Counter tops at 34 inches (865 mm)

Knee clearance where frontapproach is required

Controls within required reachranges

Controls operable without tightgrasping or twisting of the wrist

Access ib le

Resting places within exhibit areas

Alternate media for wayfindinginformation, exhibits, presentationsand background material - Braille,audio and text needed

Alternate language descriptivematerial provided for all majorexhibits and presentations

Signs indicating the availability ofalternate media and languagematerials

Braille on item labels

Clear sight lines to exhibit materialsfrom seated as well as standingpositions and for people of all sizes

Multiple counter heights for peoplewith a range of statures

Light exhibits to reduce deepshadows that obscure importantfeatures

Seating for adults accompanyingchildren in places where children will spend a great deal of time

Tactile map of building or exhibitlayout

Tips:

If exhibitions areplaced on platforms,use colors thatcontrast with the floorto make themdetectable by peoplewith low vision.

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Make the resources of the facilityavailable to the broadest population.

Accommodate people of all staturesand those that utilize powered mobilitydevices.

Accommodate people who perceiveinformation in different ways andwith different abilities.

Accommodate people who speakdifferent languages.

Universa l

Audio visual presentations should have text captions both for people who have hearing impairments and to make it easier for everyone to follow thepresentation. Open captioning should be used (always available), unless there is a special captioning device that can be actuated by the exhibit visitor. The captionscan be provided using an electronic message board or monitor. This is particularlyuseful if there is a multiple screen presentation.

Exhibits surrounded by barriers to protect the objects on display or ensure safety of the viewer should not restrict visual access. The barrier can be kept low enough for people using wheeled mobility devices, people of small stature and children to see over. As alternatives, openings in the barrier can provide lower height access or viewing platforms can be provided at different heights.

Provide seating in strategic places, to take a break or where intensivecontemplation, reading or activity is part of the experience, e.g., at very important or popular works in an art gallery, at interactive exploratory areas in sciencemuseums, in circulation spaces between galleries or at windows that have notable views of the surrounding areas.

Tactile text is not needed for labels on exhibit items if there is an audio tour.Though, if space permits, it can be included.

Braille used in exhibitions should be Level 2. Level 1 Braille is too time consuming to read and Level 3 Braille may be too difficult for some. All theinformation on labels of objects in exhibits does not have to be in Braille. If anidentifying code (e.g., ID number) is in Braille, then the user can refer to a Brailleexhibit list or catalog to find out more about the item.

Additional Tips:

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PublicAssembly

In universal design, solutionsreflect the diversity of humanbeings – throughout the rangeof life.

Robert Ivy, FAIAEditor-in-Chief

Architectural Record

Public assembly and entertainment facilities are those in which peoplegather for educational, social or recreational activities. They includelarge venues that accommodate a significant number of people as well as smaller facilities that provide a more intimate environment.Regardless of capacity, facilities should be as usable as possible toensure that resources of the city are available to everyone.Some examples of this type of facility include: exhibition and convention centers, such as the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Parsons Exhibition Center; assembly halls and auditoriums such as Carnegie Hall and Wollman Auditorium; movie theaters such as Loews E-Walk Theater and Lincoln Plaza Cinemas; live performancevenues such as Radio City Music Hall, Lincoln Center and the Ed Sullivan Theater; and professional sports stadiums and arenas, such as Madison Square Garden and Shea Stadium.

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At least one accessible route withinthe boundary of the site from publictransportation stops, accessibleparking spaces, passenger loadingzones, and public sidewalks to anaccessible building entrance

Clear width of pathways at least 36 inches (915 mm) wide

Cross slope of accessible pathways not exceeding 1:50

Access aisles at passenger loadingareas at least 60 inches (1525 mm)wide by 240 inches (6100 mm) longparallel to the vehicle pull up space,

The ADA and other accessibility codeshave requirements for features of sitedesign (e.g., pathways, loading zonesand parking), but they do not alwaysaddress issues presented by the largecrowds of people that congregate atthese facilities. Exceeding theminimum code requirements andincorporating universal designfeatures into the overall design isgood practice for improving access toeveryone.

Site Design

Tips:

The design ofexterior spaces isequally as importantas the design of the building itself. Beforevisitors find theirseats, they must enter the site, locateappropriate parking(if provided), identifythe nearest entrance,and accesspedestrian pathways.Difficulty inaccomplishing any of these tasks cansignificantly diminishthe overallentertainmentexperience.

Key Design Goals137

where passenger loading zones areprovided

Minimum vertical clearance of114 inches (2895 mm) at accessiblepassenger loading zones and 98inches (2490 mm) at van accessiblespaces

Minimum required number ofaccessible parking spaces

Access ib le

Distinct drop-off and pick-up areas to eliminate any obstruction of traffic at peak times

Exterior maps legible from a parked car and out of the way ofmoving traffic indicating reservedand general parking areas

In large parking facilities, color coded zones with easy to rememberidentifying names on prominentlydisplayed signage in that area

Parking for buses adjacent to anaccessible building entrance

All circulation pathways andwalkways wide enough toaccommodate the expectedpedestrian volume arriving anddeparting simultaneously

Pedestrian pathways and roadwaysilluminated for safety

Shuttle service provided that isusable by everyone to eliminate theneed to travel lengthy distances

Also Refer to:

CirculationParking

Design entrances and exits that areeasy to locate and use.

Provide parking along the shortest path of travel to entrances.

Accommodate large amounts ofvehicular and pedestrian trafficarriving and departing concurrently.

Provide directional signage to guide people towards their destination.

138

Tips:

In large facilities likestadiums, parkingmay be far from any entrance.Provide a wayfindingsystem which includescolored lines on thepavementdesignating the safest and mostdirect pedestrianroutes to the stadium.

Universa l

Entrance located on an accessiblepath of travel and connected toaccessible parking, passengerloading zones, public streets andsidewalks

At least one accessible publicentrance or at least 50 percentwhere there are more than twopublic entrances

Signs at inaccesible entrances thatdirect the public to the nearestaccessible entrance

Generally, upon arrival to publicassembly and entertainment facilitiesusers are permitted to enter the facility freely, but then find themselvesin the lobby or ticketing area. Theyare unable to gain access to seatingand performance areas without passingthrough a security gate and presenting their tickets for entry.Typically patrons must pass through twosets of entry points before they canreach their destination, both of whichshould permit equal passage foreveryone without difficulty orinconvenience.

Entrances and Exits

Tips:

Stadiums and arenasoften provide directbuilding access fromadjacent parkinggarages. If access isprovided forpedestrians from anelevated walkway orparking garage, atleast one entrance tothe building fromeach walkway orgarage must beaccessible.

Key Design Goals139

1

Service entrances can only be usedas an accessible entrance if they are the only entrances to the building or facility

Revolving doors and turnstiles not allowed as part of the accessibleroute unless there is an accessibledoor or gate adjacent that facilitates the same use pattern

Areas of rescue assistance (ARA)where people who need assistance in an emergency can safely wait until help arrives

Also Refer to:

Entering and Exiting

Access ib le

to the entry where visitors can wait comfortably without disrupting traffic

Eliminate turnstiles and use otherentry control devices that are usableby everyone

Overhang or canopy for protectionfrom the weather where it is likely people will be waiting

Coat check service located adjacentto the primary entrance with enough space to accommodate large numbers of people withoutobstructing the path of travel

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Make entrances easy to locate andaccessible to all users.

Control access without causingcongestion at entries.

Provide unobstructed, safe exit accessin case of fire or other emergency.

Provide adequate space and supportfor transitional activities such aspurchasing tickets, getting information,checking coats, waiting, etc.

Distinct features that differentiatemain entrances from other points of entry, like service entries

Automated sliding doors at everyentrance

Doors designated as either "entry" or "exit" for traffic traveling in opposite directions; design thatallows the designation to change asdemand changes (e g , after aconcert all doors become "exit" forquicker egress)

Lobby with seating area adjacent

Tips:

Provide accessibleexits along routesthat coincide withother exit routes toavoid forcing aperson using awheelchair to travelagainst the generalflow of traffic.

Instead of stairwaysfrom upper levels,provide a series ofgentle circular rampsthat facilitate rapidegress for everyone.

Universa l

Changes in level greater than ½ inch (13 mm) equipped with a ramp or elevator

In multi-story buildings, at least one passenger elevator serving each level, includingmezzanines

Public assembly and entertainmentfacilities are often large buildings thatcan be overwhelming, especially forfirst time visitors. A well organizedplan and effective wayfinding systemwill alleviate confusion by making iteasier for people to identify wherethey are going, and the best route fordoing so.

Spatial Organization

Tips:

Wheelchair spacesshould be locatedalong an accessibleroute that alsofunctions as a means of emergencyegress, but should not overlap the pathof travel.

Key Design Goals141

Also Refer to:

Circulation

Wheelchair seating located on alevel surface along an accessiblepath of travel connecting all public areas including entrances,concessions, public amenities andexits

Wheelchair seating locationsprovided in all areas, including skyboxes and specialty areas

Installation of emergency warningsystems that include both audible and visual alarms

Access ib le

Directional signage throughoutfacility to identify most convenientroutes to seating areas,restaurants, concessions,telephones, restrooms, etc.

Tactile map of building layout

Information booths located at principal entrances to providedirections, distribute maps,and answer general questions

Lighting provided on stairs and along pathways in places thatrequire a darkened environment(e.g., theaters, concert halls, etc.)

to help patrons leaving their seat to find their way back

Acoustics designed to reducereverberation and increaseintelligibility, e.g. adjustable wallsurfaces to account for differentkinds of performances of music,speech, opera, etc.

A supplemental method ofcommunicating essential informationshould be provided (e.g., closedcircuit TV with closed captioning) iflarge projection screens (such as a Jumbotron) are used

Amenities such as restrooms, drinkingfountains, and telephones groupedtogether to provide consistency andpredictability throughout building

Provide directional signage to guidepeople to their destination.

Provide an information booth in largefacilities to provide directions andassistance.

Provide flexible spaces that can beadapted to changes in program.

Make amenities easy to locate andaccessible by everyone.

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Tips:

In large facilities, likefootball or baseballstadiums, providesimilar concessions inmore than onelocation so users don'thave to travel a longdistance to purchasespecific food itemsand merchandise.

Universa l

Services and concessions locatedalong an accessible path of travel

Where counters have a cash register,at least one accessible counter areano higher than 36 inches (915 mm)and at least 36 inches (915 mm)wide

Where ticket or checkout aisles are provided, at least one that is 36 inches (915 mm) wide

In new construction and alterationswhere selling space is less than 5000square feet, only one accessiblecheck-out aisle required

Activities in public assembly andentertainment facilities are not justabout a performance or sportingevent, but also about consumers buyingmerchandise, food and beverages fromconcessions.

Provide services and concessions thatare identifiable and usable byeveryone.

Install counters at comfortable heightsfor use by both standing and seatedusers.

Services and Concessions

Tips:

Auxiliary counters nohigher than 36 inches(915 mm) areacceptable where themain counter is notcompliant andcompliance istechnically infeasible.

Vending machinesare not covered bythe ADA oraccessibility codes

Key Design Goals143

Service and concession items nothigher than 48 inches (1220 mm) fora forward approach and 54 inches(1370 mm) for a parallel approach

Access ib le

Guest relations booths centrallylocated that offer services such aswheelchair assistance, lost & found,maps, programs and alternativeformat material

Adequate space around concessionstands so that people standing inline do not impede the path oftravel

Concession stands, souvenir carts,and service counters at a heightcomfortable to all people whetherstanding or sitting

Printed program materials forperformances available in a varietyof formats (e.g., Braille, large print)and languages

Braille menus at concession stands

Merchandise, condiments, and otherself-serve items located within thecomfortable reach zone from 24inches (610 mm) to 48 inches (1220 mm) above the floor

Tickets prices and seating chartsposted in the lobby where they canbe examined prior to approachingthe ticket window to reducecongestion

Tips:

Events at publicassembly andentertainmentfacilities often last for3 hours or more.Provide a designatedrelief area forservice dogs that isin close proximity toseating areas.

Provide signs at entryand other highlyvisible locations thatindicate theavailability ofalternate formatmaterial.

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Provide essential information inalternative formats for people withhearing impairments.

Make printed material available inalternative formats.

Provide information booth staffed bytrained customer service personnel.

Universa l

Public telephones, drinking fountains,restrooms and trash receptacleslocated on an accessible path oftravel

Amenities located in areas wherethere is a clear floor space of 30inches (760 mm) by 48 inches (1220mm) to accommodate a person usingwheelchair

Switches and controls located nothigher than 48 inches (1220 mm) fora forward approach or 54 inches(1370 mm) for a parallel approachand operable with one hand withouttight grasping, pinching or twisting ofthe wrist

Public assembly and entertainmentfacilities typically are designed asmultipurpose facilities capable ofhosting a variety of events (e.g.,sporting events, concerts, theatricalproductions, commencement ceremonies,trade shows, job fairs, convocations,etc.). They also accommodate varyinglevels of occupancy depending on theevent. Because of this flexibility andunpredictability, public amenities should be designed in anticipation ofthe largest crowds and be usable byeveryone.

Public Amenities

Tips:

Drinking fountainsshould accommodateall users, includingpeople who usewheelchairs andpeople who standbut have difficultybending or stooping.

Each public andcommon use (includingemployee) restroommust be accessible.This includesrestrooms in work areas and restroomslocated in sky boxes and suites.

Key Design Goals145

50 percent of drinking fountainswheelchair accessible

At least one accessible telephone with volume amplification per bank ofpublic telephones

Sign identifying telephones equippedwith amplification

At least one public TTY with signs identifying the location anddirection from other telephone banks

For each bank of public telephones with three or more units, at least onetelephone equipped with a shelf andelectrical outlet to permit a person to use a portable TTY

Access ib le

requiring special assistance moreroom and privacy; include a child-size toilet, nursing lounge, seat tosecure babies and toddlers anddiaper changing table

Public telephones placed wherebackground/ambient noise wouldnot be disruptive to someone makinga call

Tips:

A 1988 study ofbathroom habits ofmen and women atpublic venuesrevealed that womentake 55% to 65%longer in publicbathrooms than menbecause of the waitfor stalls. (Carla Hall,"Is Potty Parity Just aPipe Dream?," TheLos Angeles Times,January 14, 2001).This reinforces theneed for morewomen’s toilets.

146

More toilets for women than men (as per the “Potty Parity” law)

Restrooms appropriately sized tosupport large numbers of users at the same time (e.g., intermission,halftime)

Drinking fountains at more than oneheight

Bathroom doors replaced with amaze-like entry system

Family restroom that allows adultswith children or family members

Support a variety of differentactivities at the same time.

Provide adequate number of amenitiesfor anticipated crowds.

Design amenities to be within reachand usable by all participants withoutcompromising safety and convenience.

Locate directional signage indicatinglocations of public amenities.

Also Refer to:

Using Public Amenities

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ParticipantSports and Recreation

Expanding the range ofplay opportunities, includingthe addition of accessiblecomponents, makes the playenvironment easier for allchildren to use, not just thephysically disabled.

Kevin Owens Director of “fun new stuff” for

PlayDesigns/Playworld Systems

Participant sports and recreation facilities support a variety of functionsand events, often occurring simultaneously. They can be either indoor or outdoor and contain differing levels of participation. For example,in Central Park, a concert may be taking place on the Great Lawn while people elsewhere in the park are visiting the zoo, in-line skating,jogging, swimming, sunbathing, bicycling, playing chess, boating, strollingthrough the Conservatory Garden, enjoying a picnic, bird watching, etc.Therefore, recreation facilities must be flexible enough to accommodate all users, including visitors of different ages, sizes and abilities, small and large groups, participants and observers.

Typical facilities include public parks, tennis and basketball courts,recreation centers, amusement parks, bowling alleys, boating facilities, fishing piers and platforms, golf courses, gymnasiums,and aquatic centers.

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At least one accessible route within the boundary of the site from publictransportation stops, accessibleparking spaces, passenger loadingzones, and public sidewalks to anaccessible building entrance

An accessible path of travelconnecting all accessible spaces,venues, and elements within thefacility or site (both indoor andoutdoor)

Adequate number of accessibleparking spaces

No abrupt changes in level greaterthan ½ inch (13 mm)

Often sports and recreation facilities aremulti-purpose buildings or venues spread out over large areas. Since participantsports and recreation facilities can be either interior or exterior spaces or acombination of both, it is important to treatall features both individually andcollectively. Continuity in usability is animportant design goal. Regardless ofwhether the facilities are interior orexterior, the key attributes for usabilityinclude location, flexibility and safety.

Site Design Key Design Goals149

Firm, stable, and slip resistant groundsurfaces

Clear width of pathways at least 36 inches (915 mm) wide

Passing spaces at least 60 inches(1525 mm) by 60 inches (1525 mm)located at reasonable intervals notto exceed 200 feet (61 m) foraccessible pathways less than 60inches (1525 mm) wide

Cross slope of accessible pathways not to exceed 1:50

Access aisles at passenger loadingareas at least 60 inches (1525 mm)wide by 240 inches (6100 mm) longif provided

Tips:

Both the existingnatural and builtfeatures of a siteplay a critical role indetermining howeasily users are ableto locate and reachtheir destination,perform an activity,use amenities andsuccessfully exit thefacility.

Access ib le

150

Tips:

If locations forpathways do notaccommodatedesired routes,pedestrians andbicyclists havetendencies to create informal paths across lawns.Where significantwalkways intersect,directional signageis appropriate to aid pedestrianwayfinding.

Establish a circulation system thatprovides direct access to all facilitiesand is identifiable, understandable and convenient to everyone.

Incorporate pathways that supporteasy movement without hazards orbarriers.

Make facilities manageable and safefor both pedestrian and vehiculartraffic.

Provide comprehensive signagesystem to assist in finding destinations.

Several accessible entrances toprovide options for people arrivingby differing means

In large settings, alternative locationsfor parking in close proximity to final destinations

Pick-up and drop-off area that doesnot impede pedestrian and vehiculartraffic

Directories, maps, and signage toguide people towards theirdestination

Pathways, walkways and corridors

that are wide enough for twopeople traveling in oppositedirections to pass each other

Adequate illumination throughout the site for safety and security

In exterior applications, separationbetween pedestrian, vehicular andbicycle traffic

Gated entry and fence surroundingswimming pools and playgrounds toenhance the safety of the area,make supervision easier and protect the area from vehicles

Also Refer to:

CirculationParking

Universa l

At least one accessible publicentrance

At least 50 percent of entrancesaccessible when there are more than two public entrances

Located on an accessible path oftravel and connected to accessibleparking, passenger loading zones,public streets and sidewalks

Signs near inaccessible entrancesthat direct the public to the nearestaccessible entrance

Many facilities have controlled pointsof entry (e.g. George CromwellRecreation Center, The Golf Club atChelsea Piers, Staten Island WarMemorial Ice Skating Rink, YMCA, etc.)where users pay an admission fee orshow a membership card for entry.Other facilities do not have a definedpoint of entry, such as public parks andbicycle trails. In fact, Central Park hasmore than two dozen points of entry into the park. Finding theentry closest to intended destinationscan be difficult.

Entrances and Exits

Tips:

If a person isrequired to gothrough a gate (e.g.,the entrance to aplayground, publicpool, etc.) it istreated similarly tomaneuveringthrough a door.The opening shouldbe at least 32 incheswide (815 mm) forentering and providehardware that isoperable with onehand withoutrequiring tightgrasping, pinching ortwisting of the wrist.

Key Design Goals151

Maneuvering clearances at doorsaccording to ADA Guidelines

Door openings at least 32 inches (815 mm) wide

Thresholds between ¼ inch (6 mm)and ½ inch (13 mm) high beveledwith a slope of 1:2 or less

At least 48 inches (1200 mm) plusthe width of any door swinging intothe space for the distance betweentwo doors in series

Door hardware (e.g., handles, pulls,locks, etc.) operable with one handthat does not require tight grasping,pinching or twisting of the wrist

Access ib le

Distinct features, landmarks orsignage provided to differentiate entrances when there are multiplepoints of entry

Adequate lighting to make it easierfor users to identify points of entryand to enhance safety

Overhang, recessed entry, awning or other means of protection fromthe weather where it is likely people will be waiting

Entrances that provide adjacentwaiting areas out of the path oftravel that are usable by everyone

Seating for those who may need to rest or wait for long periods of time

Automated doors that open withlittle or no effort and accommodatedifferent styles of movement through the doorway

Information booths or kiosksavailable to and usable by all users at entrances where they canobtain maps, diagrams,information, directions and other types of assistance

Tips:

Where there aremultiple entrances,provide descriptivenames for eachentrance (e.g., West86th Street entrance,Flatbush Avenueentrance and Northentrance).

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Make entrances easy to locate andaccessible to all users.

Control access without limitingamenities.

Provide an introduction to the resourceswithin the facility.

Provide adequate space and supportfor transitional activities such aspurchasing tickets, getting information,waiting, etc.

Also Refer to:

Entering and Exiting

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At least one clear path of travel that connects all public and common use areas

Wheelchair seating located on alevel surface along an accessiblepath of travel that connects all public areas including entrances,concessions, public amenities, andexits

Crowd control devices detectable by cane users

Many of the activities that take placein sports and recreation facilitiesdictate that buildings and venues (e.g.courts, pools and playing fields) bespread over large areas. This mayproduce several facilities within the sitethat are distant from each other andnot visible from all points within thesite. Therefore, the layout should be aslogical and convenient as possible foreasier use.

Spatial Organization

Tips:

Well-designedwalkways not onlyimprove pedestrianorientation, but havea social function aswell. They channel the flow of traffic,which encouragesinteraction. Benchesand other amenitiesalong walkwaysenhance this socialrole.

Key Design Goals153

Also Refer to:

CirculationSeating

Access ib le

In outdoor facilities (like a publicpark) where pedestrians,bicyclists and vehicles use the same circulation path, pavementmarkings (e.g., bike lane) to keeppedestrians safe

Speed bumps located alongvehicular pathways to preventspeeding and increase safety

Tips:

In large complexes,strategically locaterestrooms to be within a shortdistance from alllocations. When this is not feasible,considersupplementingrestrooms withportable units that are usable by everyone (not only in design but in placement also.)

Make buildings and venues easy tolocate and accessible by everyone.

Provide areas for both passive andactive participation.

Provide amenities adjacent to areas of activity.

Include design features that improvesafety for pedestrians.

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Amenities such as restrooms, drinkingfountains, and telephones groupedtogether to provide predictability

Seating areas dispersed throughoutvenue for passive recreation

In outdoor facilities, a coveredshelter provided near activity areas for those who seek refugefrom intense sunshine or inclementweather

Locker rooms, first aid station andtraining room centrally locatedwhere they are accessible by allusers of the facility

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Public telephones, drinking fountains, restrooms, trashreceptacles and other publicamenities located on an accessiblepath of travel

A clear floor space of30 inches (760 mm) by 48 inches(1220 mm) for approach toaccommodate a person usingwheelchair

Controls and operable parts located not higher than 48 inches(1220 mm) for a forward approachor 54 inches (1370 mm) for aparallel approach and operable

Public amenities are resourcesavailable to the general public thatenhance the enjoyment of sports andrecreation facilities. They are locatedin both indoor and outdoorenvironments and provide benefits toall users. Therefore, they should beusable by everyone, including allparticipants and observers.

Design public amenities to be usableby all participants withoutcompromising safety and convenience.

Enable multiple simultaneousactivities.

Public Amenities

Tips:

Drinking fountainsaccessible to peoplewho use wheelchairsare often too low forpeople with a limitedability to bend orstoop. Since the ADArequires access forboth user groups,provide a dualheight drinkingfountain for use ineither a standing orseated position.

Key Design Goals155

with one hand without requiring tight grasping, pinching or twistingof the wrist

Accessible amenities identified by the International Symbol ofAccessibility

Also Refer to:

CirculationWayfinding

Access ib le

Public amenities located close tovenues, activity, and spectator areas that are usable by everyonewithout compromising safety andconvenience

Trash receptacles distributedthroughout the site so that garbage will not have to be carried over long distances

Optional seating with back support for those who may not becomfortable in bleacher-typeseating

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Emergency communication devicesthroughout the site that are easilyidentifiable (e.g. consistent color)and usable by everyone

Public telephones placed wherebackground/ambient noise wouldnot be disruptive to someone making a call

Adjacent parking near picnic sheltersor gazebos so that heavy suppliesdo not have to be carried far

Adequate illumination at allamenities for safety

Design amenities to be within reach ofpeople with different statures, bothseated and standing use.

Provide suitable number of amenitiesfor the anticipated number of users.

Provide directional signage thatindicates locations of public amenities.

Make amenities available at all timesand appropriate for all weatherconditions.

Universa l Tips:

Portable toilet unitsare often used atpublic parks,playgrounds, playingfields and alonghiking trails. Althoughsome units areaccessible in design,if they are placed ina location that doesnot provide a clearpath of travel, theybecome unusable.Therefore, placementof these units iscritical for usabilityby everyone.

Letters and numbers on signs sizedaccording to viewing distance with a width-to-height ratio between 3:5and 1:1 and a stroke-width-heightratio between 1:5 and 1:10

Tactile signage requirements in theADA Guidelines and New York CityCode apply only to permanent signsand are restricted to room numbers(not names) and elevator controls

Visual signage requirements in theADA Guidelines and New York CityCode apply to all signs

The more extensive a facility is, themore difficult it becomes for people,especially visitors or those unfamiliarwith the layout, to locate and reachdestinations. A signage system is themost understandable method to assistnavigation. It is intended to identify,direct, inform and regulate. Signs andother graphic representations must bedetectable and intelligible.

Signage Systems

Tips:

Although the ADAGuidelines requirethat letters andsymbols contrast with theirbackground, theyshould also contrastwith existingconditions. Forexample, signsplaced in parksshould avoid usingthe color green,which may bedifficult to detect and decipher.

Key Design Goals157

Descriptive text provided directlybelow the pictogram for clarification of meaning

Also Refer to:

Wayfinding

Access ib le

Uppercase and lowercase charactersto increase legibility on directories

Pictogram system to associate withdifferent activities (e.g. silhouette ofa fishing rod and fish to indicate asafe fishing area)

Exterior signage placed in well litareas or illuminated for legibilityafter dark

Exterior maps legible from a parked car and out of the way of moving traffic

Directional signage (such as mapsand directories) located along an

Tips:

Create a signageprogram for thefacility that setsstandards for theconstruction,installation, andmaintenance of signswithin the site. Aconsistent signageprogram makes them more usable to everyone, getspeople where theyare going andreduces the potential forconfusion.

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accessible path of travel

Signs placed within sight lines toincrease recognition to everyonewhether standing or seated

Signage in alternate languages,as well as in English

Flexible system to accommodatesimple sign changes or upgrades

Public address system utilized as an alternative means to conveyinformation when electronicinformation display systems and other messaging/display systems are used

Install signs that are resistant toweather and graffiti.

Maintain consistency with location and graphic representation of signs.

Provide information provided in bothEnglish and alternate languages.

Include an obvious and intuitive pictogram system.

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TemporaryLodging

As international communicationand travel increase, it willbecome increasingly difficult to justify national or regionaldifferences in accessibilitycriteria ... the marketplace is demanding accessibility at a rate that is outstrippingaccessibility standards.

John P.S. SalmenUniversal Designers

and Consultants

Temporary lodging includes facilities that provide sleepingaccommodations for business travel, vacations, relocation and other short term needs (e.g., hotels, motels, inns, shelters, boarding houses, dormitories, resorts, hospice and other temporary housingaccommodations). These facilities must satisfy a wide variety ofusers with differing abilities, length of stay, income, lifestyle andpreferences for traveling alone, in groups, or with their families.Not only is design an important factor for usability, but other features such as services, guest rooms, amenities and recreation must support these variables.

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Signs that designate permanentrooms and spaces: the ADAGuidelines include provisions forcharacter proportion, characterheight, mounting location and height, finish and contrast, and raised and Brailled characters

Signs which provide information and directions to spaces within afacility: the ADA Guidelines have requirements for characterproportion, character height,finish and contrast

It is likely that the majority of guests of temporary lodging facilities will befirst time visitors who may beunfamiliar with the building, its locationwithin a neighborhood and routes forgetting there. Regardless of thedirection from which visitors arrive, thefacility must be easily identifiable.

Building identification

Tips:

Signage mounted onthe facade ofbuildings meant to beviewed from adistance do not haveto follow ADAregulations, althoughdesigning within thespecifications forcharacter proportionsand height, as well asfinish and contract,increases recognitionto everyone.

Key Design Goals161

Access ib le

Large character size, overhead signs for detection from a distance and supplemental signs mounted at street level scaled for closeviewing

Signs located where they can beeasily seen from primary vehicularroutes at the prevailing speed limit,(e.g. highway)

Text reinforcements of familiar orrecognizable logos (e.g., hotelchains)

Focal points of the building (e.g., main public entrances,

plazas, etc.) provided with a distinct landmark, either separated from or attached to the building.

Illuminated signs for detection and legibility after dark

Building distinguished from itssurroundings through use ofmaterial and color

Tips:

Certain facilitieschoose not toadvertise theirfunction for securitypurposes (e.g.battered women’sshelter). The facadeis devoid of any signswhich can makebuilding identificationdifficult. Typically,these buildings areidentifiable only byan address, whichshould be clearlydisplayed.

162

Make building identification easy toread both within close proximity andfrom a distance.

Establish a distinctive identity withoutclashing with the surroundingcommunity.

Provide text to reinforce unfamiliargraphics.

Illuminate signs to provide detectionand legibility.

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At least one accessible route withinthe boundary of the site from publictransportation stops, accessibleparking spaces, passenger loadingzones, and public sidewalks to anaccessible building entrance

Registration and reception countersthat have a portion of the maincounter at least 36 inches (915mm)long and no higher than 36 inches(915mm) or an auxiliary counter nohigher than 36 inches (915mm) inclose proximity to the main counter orprovision for a pull-out shelf attachedto the main counter on which a seatedindividual can write

Entrances should not only be easy to locate andaccessible to all guests but should also providecontrolled access when appropriate. Althoughlarger hotels occasionally have a security guardstationed at the main entrance, typically hotelsallow guests and visitors to freely enter thefacility without showing any identification.Depending on the size of the facility, someestablishments secure their perimeter doorsafter normal business hours where only guestscan enter using swipe card access. Other typesof temporary lodging facilities, such as sheltersand dormitories, require additional preventivemeasures to keep guests/residents safe andsecure. For example, a shelter that houses young

Building Entrance

Tips:

Entrance identificationsigns mounted atstreet level for closeviewing are requiredto conform to thesame requirementsas directional andinformationalsignage.

Key Design Goals163

At least one accessible publicentrance or not less than 50 percentwhere there are more than two publicentrances

Compliance with other accessibilityrequirements for parking areas, pathsof travel, ground and floor surfacesand passenger loading areas

Accessible route between entry andregistration or reception counter and clear floor area of 48 inches(1220mm) by 30 inches (716mm) at counter

Also Refer to:

CirculationParking

Access ib le

Distinctive exterior features at entrance

Registration/check-in desk in aposition to view critical access points(e.g., front, back, and side entrances,elevator banks, etc.) to dissuadeunwelcome entry and provide alevel of security

Glazed areas to providesurveillance of entry area frominside

Closed circuit TV at primary entrances to monitor access if a view out is not available

Elevators and stairs in closeproximity to the entranceLobby with seating area adjacent to the entry whereguests/visitors can wait comfortably

Areas around registration andservice counters that provide enough space to accommodateexpected uses

Automated sliding doors toaccommodate people carryingheavy luggage

Tips:

In facilities thatrequire a lockedentry and highsecurity, use a videoentry system thatallows visitors to beseen through amonitor to keep outunwanted guests. Forentry, visitors push acall button, whichalerts a staffmember. Call buttonsshould be mounted ata reachable heightfor someone eitherstanding or seatedand have featuresusable by everyone.

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victims of neglect needs to be locked atall times to prevent entry of unwantedvisitors.

Make entrances easy to locate andaccessible to all users.

Provide adequate illumination at allentrances.

Provide a secure yet user-friendlybuilding.

Place drop-off and pick-up area in close proximity to main entrance.

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Centrally located for easy accessfrom the entrance, lobby, sleepingrooms and lounges

Private offices as opposed to open-air cubicles to maintainconfidentiality

Signage to clearly identify restricted areas that are "staff only"

Located on an accessible path oftravel connected to all public andcommon use areas

If seating at tables is provided, kneespaces at least 27 inches (685 mm)high, 30 inches (760 mm) wide and19 inches (485 mm) deep

Table tops between 28 inches (710mm) and 34 inches (865 mm) fromthe floor

In certain types of facilities, interactionbetween staff and guests is critical to the organization. For instance,according to the hospice mission, thesuccess of providing services lies in the relationship between the hospice"team" (physicians, nurses, socialworkers, counselors, therapists), thepatient and their family members.

Locate staff offices in close proximityto the main entrance, lobby andreception areas.

Maximize layout options for flexibilityof space usage.

Staff Office

Tips:

Women andchildren's sheltersnot only provide asafe place to sleep,but other essentialservices includingtherapy, counseling,education andassessments by staff.Many times sheltersare built withlimited funding; asa result, case officesmay have tofunction as meeting rooms.

Key Design Goals165

Access ib le Universa l

Also Refer to:

Entering and ExitingWayfinding

Case Study: Hotel

Auxiliary Counter at Registration Desk

The front desk at hotels, motels and other lodging

facilities attracts many people and frequently

becomes the center of activity. The counter

illustrated to the left meets the ADA Guidelines at 36

inches (915mm) high, but prevents people in

wheelchairs or of short stature to easily check-in, sign

credit cards or temporarily place belongings. In order

to accommodate all people, this hotel provides an

auxiliary shelf that extends from the main desk when

needed.

Braille on Exercise Equipment

Amenities are an important component of many

temporary lodging facilities. Recreation areas,

including pools, spas and work-out facilities help hotels

and motels attract more customers. Although these

areas follow ADA Guidelines for accessibility, this

company is thinking beyond code compliance. Not

specifically required by the ADA Guidelines, the hotel

has added Braille and large, high contrast print to the

controls of every piece of exercise equipment in the

room. It helps people with visual impairments work out

safely and more conveniently. Currently, equipment

manufacturers do not build in tactile information.

At least one accessible route thatconnects all sleeping rooms to publicand common use areas

Minimum number of fully accessiblerooms and rooms for hearing impairedusers based on the total number ofrooms in the facility

Accessible rooms dispersed among thevarious classes of accommodations

Accessible route within the unit includingsleeping area, a full bathroom, livingspaces and all amenities

Required clear maneuvering width atsides of bed

Depending on the type of facility,sleeping rooms may accommodate asingle person (e.g., boarding house,inn, etc.) or an entire family (e.g.,resort, hotel, etc.). Individual roomsoffer an amount of privacy andpersonal space that is clearly definedby walls, doors, locks, etc. Others,such as in homeless shelters, mayaccommodate 200 people. In thesecases, beds are placed side by sidewhere personal space is minimal andthere is little if any privacy.Regardless of the number of people

Sleeping Rooms

Tips:

The use of slide bolts,pull chain bolts andreleases requiringboth hands foractuation are notpermitted.

If rooms are beingaltered, accessibilityregulations require aphasing in ofaccessible rooms untilthe number requiredin new construction isachieved. There aredifferences in therequirements fordifferent types offacilities.

Key Design Goals167

Roll-in shower of required size withfolding seat, grab bars, accessiblecontrols

Adequate clearance through doorways

Accessibility to some fixed storage (e.g.,cabinets, shelves, closets, and drawers)

Controls operable with closed fist oropen hand

If reserved for the sleeping space orapartment, accessible carports, garagesor parking spaces

Visual notification devices for telephonecalls, emergency alarms and doorknock/bell

Telephone with volume controls andconnection for use of a TTY device

Access ib le

168

Accessible rooms in close proximity toelevators

Door peepholes at differing heights toaccommodate both standing or seatedusers

A range of furniture to accommodateuser needs and preferences, e.g.different seat heights, type of seating

Adjustable height for work surfaceslike desks or tables used as desks

Flexible storage areas with easy-toadjust shelves to accommodate allusers

Provide call buttons that alert a staffmember in case of an emergencywithin the comfort range of 24 inches(610mm) and 48 inches (1220mm)

Shading for windows and crossventilation to keep rooms cool insummer and reduce air conditioningcosts

they accommodate, sleeping roomsshould provide enough space toprovide a comfortable, accessible room for everyone.

Provide adequate maneuvering spacewithin the room.

Provide storage within reach forpersonal belongings.

Controls within reach and easy tooperate.

Universa l Tips:

If a temporarylodging facilityprovides only multiple occupancyaccessible rooms,then an individualwith disabilities whorequests a single-occupancy room must be allowed torent that room at thecost of a singleoccupancy room.This is an example of "equivalentfacilitation".

Activity spaces located on anaccessible path of travel

If seating at tables is provided,knee spaces at least 27 inches (685 mm) high, 30 inches (760 mm)wide and 19 inches (485 mm) deep

Table tops between 28 inches (710mm) and 34 inches (865 mm) fromthe floor

A permanently installed assistivelistening system or electrical outletsand supplementary wiring for aportable system for spaces withoutfixed seating where audible

In temporary lodging facilities, socialand activity spaces encourageinteraction between individuals andgroups in both indoor and outdoorsettings. They should be designed tofacilitate an array of activities andprograms which may include smallmeetings, arts and crafts, playinggames, doing exercise, dining,lounging, computer use, music, etc.

Social and Activity Spaces Key Design Goals169

communication is integral to the useof a space

If a service counter or pass throughis provided, wheelchair clearance of30 inches (760 mm) by 48 inches(1220 mm) at the service counterand no higher than 36 inches (915 mm) high, or an adjacentcounter no higher than 34 inches

Also Refer to:

Circulation

Access ib le

Activity spaces located adjacent toother spaces that may be used inconjunction, e.g. kitchens

Flexible arrangement of furniture toaccommodate various abilities,groups and activities

Circulation paths throughout spaceenables unobstructed movement byall users

Infrared headsets with volumecontrol for television

Televisions with captioning featuresfor people with hearing impairments

Accessible restrooms, drinking waterand other amenities located withinclose proximity

Separation between areas withdifferent functions (e.g., using doorsor movable partitions) when noisetransmission, visual access or crosstraffic is not preferred

Provide adequate illumination thatcan be adjusted appropriate to theactivity

If the facility serves a large numberof children, provide child-sizedactivity tables and chairs

Storage space for furniture andother materials that are not beingused

Tips:

While social andactivity spacespromote interaction,there should also beareas that provideopportunities forprivacy and intimacywhen needed.

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Make social and activity spaces easyto locate and accessible to all users.

Provide sufficient space throughout toenable usability by everyone.

Provide accessible restrooms anddrinking fountains located within closeproximity and along an accessiblepath..

Provide flexible arrangement toaccommodate all types and sizes ofsocial events.

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All accessible spaces and elementswithin the facility or site connectedby an accessible path of travel

Changes in level greater than ½ inch (13 mm) eliminated or ramped

Firm, stable, and slip resistantground surfaces

When court sports are provided,an accessible route directlyconnecting both sides of the court

The requirements for protrudingobjects not applicable within the area of sport activity

There are obvious physical benefits of recreational and fitness activities,but there also are wellness and mental health benefits (e.g.,anxiety and stress reduction, self-esteem and confidence building, overallquality of life improvements). This isparticularly relevant to residents ofshelters, e.g., who have experiencedsome sort of trauma. Regardless of aperson's age, ability or size, theyshould be able to find their own levelof participation in a particular sportsor recreation activity.

Recreation Facilities

Tips:

For additionalrequirements (e.g.,pool lifts, slopedentry, transfer walls,pool stairs) referencethe ADA AccessibilityGuidelines forRecreation Facilities.

Key Design Goals171

Where lockers are provided inaccessible spaces, at least 5 percent,but not less than one having at least 30 inches (760 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) of clear floor space that allows either a forward or parallel approach

Controls for lockers operable with one hand without requiring tight grasping, pinching or twisting

If saunas or steam rooms areprovided, wheelchair turning space of 60 inches (1525 mm) by60 inches (1525 mm) to make a 180 degree turn (removable seatsmay obstruct wheelchair turningspace but doors not permitted toswing into any part of the clear floor space required at benches)

Access ib le

Avoid chemicals, such as chlorine,used in swimming pools and spas, orpesticides and synthetic fertilizersused in outdoor areas that mayimpair the neurological andrespiratory functions of people withmultiple chemical sensitivities

Adequate illumination at activityareas for safety and security

Gated entry and fence surroundingswimming pools and playgrounds to prevent unauthorized entry andenhance the safety of the area

Locker rooms strategically located tobe within a short distance from allrecreation areas

For outdoor recreation, a coveredarea for those who seek refuge fromintense sunshine or inclement weather

Tips:

For exterior lighting,huge floodlights arenot recommendedbecause they tend tocreate glare andheavy shadows, whichcan create dangerousconditions.

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Establish a circulation system thatprovides direct access to all facilitiesand is usable by everyone.

Provide areas of activity that ensureparticipation by all users regardlessof age or physical ability.

Provide options for both active andpassive recreation.

Provide amenities adjacent to areas of activity.

Universa l

WorkplaceFacilities

Design should adapt to people,not the other way around.

AD ASfurniture purveyors

Good design of the workplace helps employers to attract and keep the best individuals from a broad and diverse workforce. Achieving the highest level of usability in the environment increases overall taskefficiency, productivity, employee morale and general safety. In short,smart workplace design improves the overall quality of life at work.The ADA Guidelines have minimal requirements for the design ofworkplaces. Many important elements of the work environment such asoffice equipment and furniture are covered only as part of reasonableaccommodations for a worker with a disability. Universal design not only ensures that fewer accommodations will be needed if a worker has a disability, it also contributes to the reduction of work-related injuries (e.g. repetitive motion injuries) and increases general workerproductivity. Design of the universal workplace includes providing basicaccessibility to work settings, building flexibility into the generalenvironment and selection of office furniture and equipment that can be adjusted to suit a variety of needs and tasks.

Elements of the general environment include partitions and doors, lightingand electrical controls, the thermal environment and acoustics. Theseelements usually cannot be moved or adjusted after the building isconstructed unless they were designed for flexibility from the start. Aspecific concern in workplace design today is accommodating wheeledmobility devices of all kinds. Many individuals require the use of a scooterto reduce energy expenditure during the workday. Although they may beable to stand and walk short distances, the scooter allows them to be fullymobile. As the workforce ages, scooter use will increase significantly.

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All accessible spaces and elementsconnected to the building from the accessible entrance

Fixed partitions and doors locatedon an accessible route

Clear width of doors at least 32inches (815 mm) and no more than 24 inches (610 mm) deep

Accessible common facilities andpublic amenities like restrooms,drinking fountains and publictelephones

These elements define the floor area ofthe workplace and the paths of travelwithin it. A balance has to be achievedbetween space and efficiency.

Fixed Partitions and Doors

Tips:

Scooters requiremore space thanwheelchairs. Althoughthe codes do notrequire it at present,accommodationswould have toaddress the needs of the individualusing a scooter.

Key Design Goals175

No clearances required for roominteriors unless needed by theindividual worker

Also Refer to:

CirculationExiting and EnteringUsing Public Amenities

Access ib le

176

Extra space planned within eachoffice workspace to allowaccommodations for people whomay need to use wheeled mobilitydevices, including scooters

At least one automated door to thebuilding, preferably one closest toemployee parking or publictransportation

Adjustable work surface heights,increased depth, space underneathwork surfaces, and larger floorspace to maneuver in cubicles oroffices

Wall systems that allow foradjustable shelf heights, electricaloutlets, and display heights

Reduce the need to make futurerenovations for employees withdisabilities, including those who havelimitations of stamina.

Provide flexibility to accommodatetrends in wheeled mobility devicesevolving and other predictable advancesin technology

Tips:

If automated doorsare not providedinitially, the ease of installation can be enhanced byproviding anelectrical supply and junction boxabove or adjacent to the door jamb for future installation of controls.

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No requirements in ADA Guidelinesfor overall illumination or taskspecific illumination in the workplaceenvironment

Level of illumination at elevators atleast 5 foot candles

Xenon strobe-type lighting, clear incolor and at least 75 candelas in allvisual alarms

30 inches (760 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) of clear floor space atall lighting controls

Appropriate lighting is critical for safety in the workplace and effective taskperformance. The amount of lightnecessary for good work performance will depend on the requirements of thetask, general ambient conditions and thevisual abilities of the employee. Lighting is also used to warn people who cannothear audible alarms of emergency events.

Provide sufficient illumination levels tosupport high levels of productivity andreduce errors and accidents.

Lighting

Tips:

Adopting gooddaylighting strategiescan save money inenergy costs as wellas reduce effort andprovide a betterquality lightingenvironment.

If motion sensors areused, make certainthat controls ensurethat lights stay onwhile space is beingused.

Key Design Goals177

All controls operable with a closedfist or open hand and withoutrequiring tight grasping, pinching ortwisting of the wrist

Height for controls and otheroperable equipment mountedbetween 9 inches (230 mm) and 54inches (1370 mm) from the floor fora parallel approach and between15 inches (380 mm) and 48 inches(1220 mm) for a front approach

Access ib le

Lighting options appropriate for all thetasks provided by following therecommendations of the IlluminatingEngineering Society of North America(refer to the IESNA Lighting Handbook)

Optimal use of natural light to providean antidote to seasonal affectivedisorder

Light shelves, clerestories and otherdevices to bring natural light into thebuilding to produce an even distributionof natural light throughout

Overhangs, reflective baffles, tintedglass, adjustable blinds and shades,

and indirect lighting used to controlexcessive glare from natural illumination

Automated control systems with sensorsto adjust the amount of artificial light inrelationship to the amount of naturallight, thereby reducing wide variationover the course of the day

Systems for employees to adjust lightlevels at their workspaces to best fit therequirements for their specific tasks,individual abilities and preferences

Switches organized to follow the spatiallayout of the lighting fixtures that theswitches control

Tips:

Ensure that bulbs can be replacedeasily and thatreplacements areavailable withoutlong delays.

Provide presencesensors to turn lightson and offautomatically.

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1

Reduce eye fatigue due to frequent andmajor shifts in overall light level.

Provide sufficient exposure to naturallight to maintain health and morale.

Improve legibility of the task surface bycontrolling glare.

Provide flexible lighting conditions tosupport different types of tasks.

Ensure that lighting controls are simpleand easy to understand.

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No requirements in ADA Guidelinesfor thermal comfort

30 inches (760 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) of clear floor space foraccess to controls

All controls operable with a closedfist or open hand and withoutrequiring tight grasping, pinching ortwisting of the wrist

Thermal comfort is one of the mostimportant contributors to satisfaction with workplace environments.Environments that are too cold, hot, dry,humid or have excessive air movement areuncomfortable. Since thermal comfort issubjective, and needs change significantlyover time and across seasons, employeesshould be able to adjust the microclimateconditions including ventilation,temperature, and humidity. Older workerswill be more sensitive to thermal comfortthan younger workers and some chronicconditions result in increased sensitivity totemperatures that deviate from the comfortzone.

Thermal Environment

Tips:

Locate switchesprominently andcentrally in easy-to-find locations, not incabinets or behindlarge furniture wherea person in awheelchair would beunable to make anapproach.

Key Design Goals179

Mounting height for controls andother operable equipment between9 inches (230 mm) and 54 inches(1370 mm) from the floor for aparallel approach and between 15 inches (380 mm) and 48 inches(1220 mm) for a front approach

Access ib le

All controls within the comfortablereach zone of between 24 inches(610 mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm)above the floor

Air conditioned supply registerslocated where they do not dischargedirectly above or next to workstations

Multi-speed ceiling fans where airconditioning is not provided, so thatair velocities can be adjusted

Remote controls for HVAC systems,including ceiling fans

Individualized HVAC systems that

allow fine tuning at the workstationincluding personal HVAC units, zonedthermostats, fans, operable windows,drapes, blinds, adjustable radiators,through-the-wall air conditioners

Extra outlets near the base ofworkstations for humidifiers or otherindividual equipment

Office furniture with built inventilation systems

Adequate hanging storage atworkstations for employees to storeclothing such as sweaters and lightjackets

Tips:

Some employees may prefer "natural"means for regulatingthe thermalenvironment, such as windows and fans.These are often lessexpensive andrequire lessmaintenance thanlarge, energy-consuming, HVACunits.

180

Maintain thermal comfort at all work areas following guidelines in the Fundamentals chapter on ThermalComfort in the ASHRAE Handbook.

Provide individual control overtemperature and ventilation to suit specific preferences.

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Alarm systems that exceed 15 dbA ofprevailing background noise level

Workplace noise can negatively affect morale, task performance, andpersonal safety. Uncontrolled noise is a particularly serious problem in openoffice work environments. Specialattention to acoustics is needed in thedesign of conference rooms to ensureeffective communication and meetings.Acoustic privacy is critical whereconfidential communications take place.

Notifying all employees of emergenciesis also a critical safety and securityissue. Alarm systems must be designedto exceed prevailing background noise

Acoustics

Tips:

Most computerequipment havecooling fans thatproduce ambientnoise. Although notvery loud, the fannoise can bedisturbing toneighboring workersor amplified by poorroom acoustics.Locate this equipmentnear sound-absorbingmaterials, such ascarpet or dividingwalls.

Key Design Goals181

Elimination or isolation of sources ofloud and distracting noise

Sound absorbent materials on wallsand floors to keep ambient noiselevels as low as possible wherebackground noise cannot beeliminated

Background music or "white noise"generators to mask background noisethat cannot be controlled

No large open areas with manydesks

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Tips:

Alarms orcommunicationshaving auditoryfrequencies above4000 Hz are difficultfor many individualsto detect and shouldbe avoided.

Workers using voicerecognition systemsneed to have soundcontrolled offices toavoid disturbingother workers and toinsure that thesystems will operateeffectively.

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levels in busy open environments andreach isolated private spaces. Theyalso have to communicate a sense ofurgency to ensure that workers will respond to the warnings.

Reduce uncontrolled background noiseto a minimum and isolate loud areasand quiet spaces from the rest of theworkplace.

Ensure adequate communication ofemergency events and optimizecommunications by supporting clarityand legibility of sound quality.

Cubicles and other devices to giveindividual workers some control over noise

Dedicated, sound-controlled, spacesfor meetings and teleconferencing

Incorporation of the recommendationsfrom the Acoustical Society ofAmerica (ASA) for noise criteria (NCcurves) and reverberation rates

Auditory alarms supplemented withvisual signals (e.g., flashing lights)

Office policies implemeted to keepcontrollable noise pollution to aminimum including music and mobilephone ringers

Plan a variety of conditions in theworkspace so that there are enoughoptions to accommodate alldifferences between individuals inthe types and intensity levels ofnoise that they can tolerate withoutdistraction

Work environment organized tominimize the frequency thatmaterials have to be moved fromstorage to workstations

Need for redundant handling ofmaterials, including paperwork,minimized

Stocks of frequently accessedsupplies decentralized throughoutthe office environment

Complimentary materials storednear the point of use, (e.g. toner andcopy paper near the copy machine)

All storage spaces, if part of thegeneral workspace, on an accessibleroute

No accessibility codes for storage ormaterials handling equipment inworkplaces; ADA Guidelines require accommodations be made forindividual needs

Adequate provisions for storage ofsupplies, products and personalbelongings reduce effort, improvesafety and increase privacy.Environments that promote the efficientflow of materials minimize the effortneeded to handle materials andincreases safety from lifting injuries.Every workplace has employees withdifferent statures and abilities to reach,lift and carry materials.

Storage and MaterialsHandling

Tips:

Consider paperlessoptions. Electronicdocuments can betransported, edited,and transmitted with a minimum ofeffort and stored in a fraction of thespace.

Key Design Goals183

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Tips:

Options for materials flow inworkstations can be evaluated using simple materialflow diagrams inconsultation withworkers and theirsupervisors.

Give priority tofrequently used itemsand only store rarelyused items outside ofcomfort range, ifnecessary.

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Design the work environment to reducelifting and carrying to a minimum.

Locate materials needed during worknearby to minimize trips between workstations and storage areas.

Design storage and materials flow tosupport job performance by people ofvarying statures and abilities.

Storage containers that provide theoption of carrying, pushing, pulling,or rolling

Materials that everyone needslocated in the comfort range of 24inches (610 mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm) above the floor

Where feasible, automated materialsretrieval systems to bring materialsclose to the employee

Rolling carts to distribute or movecommonly used office materials

Options for handling heavy, fragileor awkward objects and materials(e.g. large boxes of paper and

computer monitors) or an officepolicy that requires more than oneemployees to move such items

Ample and secure storage for employee's personal possessions within the comfort range of between 24 inches(610 mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm) above the floor

Decentralization of suppliesbalanced with the need to controlaccess to them

Cafeterias, break rooms and loungeson an accessible route

Clear width along paths of travel ofat least 36 inches (915 mm) exceptat doors, where opening must be atleast 32 inches (815 mm) wide andno more than 24 inches (610 mm) indepth

ADA Guidelines require that socialspaces be fully accessible (includinginterior clearances and equipment), ifa person with a disability works atthe site

Work is not only about making anincome; it has an important socialcomponent as well. The opportunity forsocial interaction between all employeescontributes to positive morale andoverall employee satisfaction. Healthysocial interaction is necessary to ensuremutual respect, understanding, harmony,cooperation, positive morale and a common sense of purpose. In turn,social interaction at work contributes to self esteem and a sense ofbelonging and provides stimulation.Thus, workplaces should be designed tofacilitate healthy social interaction within

Social Interaction

Tips:

Although instantmessaging can beabused, it can allowemployees to stay at their work stationwhile still havingsocial interaction.

Key Design Goals185

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Designated break areas to give workers a place to recover from workdemands and socialize with others

Break areas provided that are quiet,comfortable and have a pleasantenvironment so that they are morelikely to be used by employees

Furniture arranged in social spaces inclusters to facilitate interaction betweenemployees

Both tables and counter areas inemployee cafeterias, lounges andbreak spaces that can be used bypeople with wheeled mobility devices

Appliances that are usable by peoplewith disabilities including sufficientaccess space for wheeled mobilitydevices, controls and reach

Support for wireless communicationdevices in social spaces to allowemployees to "stay connected" whilenot at their usual workstations

Workstations situated so employeescan communicate effectively withvisual and/or verbal modes ofcommunication

Support instant messaging services that allow real-time communications

Tips:

Seating clustersshould be accessibleso that no worker is excluded.

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the context of accomplishing the goals ofthe organization.

Plan areas to encourage socialinteraction and hold impromptu meetings.

Create environments that include theneeds of everyone rather than cloisterand segregate one group from another.

Provide areas that afford privacy away from the general officeenvironment.

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No requirements in the ADAGuidelines for workstations, but theydo require that accommodations bemade for workers with disabilities

Sit-stand workstation that can beadjusted to allow the worker to avoidmuscle fatigue by changing workposture

Standing Workstations

Tips:

Many standing tasksrequire closeinspection. Such tasksare more easilycompleted accuratelyby raising the worksurface closer to theface. Each individualmay need slightlydifferent heights dueto differences ineither stature, visualability or both.

Key Design Goals187

Counter heights for standing workshould be adjustable to fit a workforce with a wide range of staturesand visual abilities

Standing workstations instead ofsitting workstations when heavyphysical effort is required or theemployee must supervise a largerwork area

Adjustable stool or "perch" forleaning to temporarily reducepressure on the lower back

Many employees such as cashiers,retail workers, factory workers, securityworkers and transportation workers,can do their job more effectively bystanding. However, standing for longperiods of time can strain the back and legs. On the other hand, workerswho sit for long periods oftime can benefit from shifting to astanding position periodically.For long work periods of standing work, there is no one “compromise”height for a work surface that serves all people equally well.

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Objects or tasks at hand withinnormal view to minimize stoopedpostures that cause neck and backinjuries

Adequate knee and toe clearancebeneath workstations and counters sothat employees can be as close to theworkstation as possible

Options for controlling all or somework related operations with feet aswell as hands

Avoidance of elevated platforms

Durable rubber floor matting toreduce muscle fatigue of the legsand backs for those who stand

Special design considerations forworkstations that contain computersand their accessories

Tips:

Employees should notbe required to standin place for longperiods without a break or a meansof relief.

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Provide surfaces that can be adjusted tosuit the needs of different heights anddifferent uses.

Provide opportunities for workers toperiodically get relief from the stress ofstanding or sitting for long periods oftime.

No requirements in ADA Guidelinesfor accessible workstations, butaccommodations to the work stationsof people with disabilities must bemade if needed

Sitting Workstations

Tips:

Controlling glare on computer screensrequires personaladjustments becausethe angle ofreflection isdetermined in part by the statureand posture of theworker. See sectionon Lighting for moreinformation.

Key Design Goals189

Height adjustable work surfacebetween 28 inches (715 mm) and 32inches (815 mm), with frequently useditems stored within 24 inches (610mm) and 48 inches (1220 mm) andwithin 24 inch (610 mm) maximum ofreach arc from the elbow

Adequate knee and toe clearance forwheelchair users under the worksurface

Adjustable monitor arm and/or standto bring monitor up to a position levelwith the eyes and within the visualrange of the user

Generally, sitting is less strenuous thanstanding and allows easier control overhand and body movements. The sittingworkstation is the most common and isthe standard for most officeenvironments. Yet, there are many seriousrisks to injury even in seated work whichis related to bad posture and computeruse.

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Wheeled chair with adjustable heightseat, reclining tilt function, lumbarsupport, adjustable arm rests and a high back to support neck and head

Footrests to relieve stress on lower back and thighs

Integrated data and electrical outlets, cable management systemsand CPU support shelves to reducethe confusion and complexity of the work environment

Adjustable tilt on keyboard tray

"Direct glue-down" adhesiveinstallation for carpeting to avoid

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Support good posture to reduce backand neck injuries

Provide support to reduce repetitivemotion injuries

Provide work and seating surfaces thatcan be adjusted to suit the needs ofpeople who have different statures

Tips:

Multi-level desktopscan be adjusted to a finer degree andreduce the need forother positioningdevices. The uppersection can beadjusted to place amonitor level with theeyes and the lowersection can beindependentlyadjusted to put thekeyboard and deskarea at the bestlocation for handwork.

potentially dangerous "zippering" or"creep", which is caused by repeatedchair movement in seated workstationareas

Workstations that accommodate bothstanding and seated positions, alsoreferred to as "sit-stand" workstationsused wherever possible

While the physical characteristics ofa workstation will depend largely onthe tasks that are to be performed,sit-stand workstations provide acommon baseline for workstationdesign

6611HumanService

Facilities

Universal Design is anapproach to design thathonors human diversity.It addresses the right foreveryone – from childhoodinto their oldest years –to use all spaces, productsand information in anindependent, inclusive, andequal way. It is a processthat invites designers to gobeyond compliance withaccess codes -- to createexcellent, people centereddesign.

Elaine OstroffFounding Director

Adaptive Environments

Human service facilities provide the community with central gatheringplaces in which individuals, families, groups or organizations can meet their social, cultural, educational, fitness and recreational needs.Some facilities offer services to a specific type of user (e.g., child care centers, senior centers, etc.) and others support the general public in civic activities (e.g., government buildings, fire and police stations, etc.).Often they are multipurpose (e.g., YMCA, community centers, etc.).Because of the broad range of services available, facilities should bedesigned to ensure that people of all ages, sizes and abilities haveaccess to quality services that protect and enhance physical, mental and social well-being.

At least one accessible route within the boundary of the site from public transportation stops,accessible parking spaces,passenger loading zones, and public sidewalks to an accessiblebuilding entrance

The principal function of human serviceagencies is to promote the well-beingof the people they serve and thecommunity as a whole. The buildingsthat house these agencies must reflectthe goals and activities appropriate to the organization. They must also be perceived as a community asset that is usable by everyone. Individuals,groups, and families are best servedwhen facilities are located within theirown neighborhoods.

Location

Tips:

Human servicefacilities should belocated in areasserviced by publictransportation toensure theavailability toeveryone.

Key Design Goals193

Access ib le

accessible and usable by all types of users regardless of their abilities

Located where building is visiblefrom nearby roadways

Opportunity to have adjacent space for outdoor programs

Availability of parking withoutinterfering with neighborhood traffic patterns

Tips:

Human servicefacilities should belocated close to other services thatpeople might use.For example, locatinga senior center nearshopping would beconvenient for thosewho are unable todrive.

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Located centrally within thecommunity to increase convenience and utilization

Located near other communities tohelp forge effective partnershipsbetween community agencies

Human service buildings clusteredon a site to provide a sense ofcommunity where generations of neighbors can meet and sharetheir cultures

Public transportation stops in closeproximity to the facilities that are

Place facilities where users can easilyreach them.

Locate within the community to createrelationships among users.

Locate in close proximity to otheraffiliated organizations sharingfacilities.

Locate close to public transit.

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All accessible facilities on the siteconnected to the accessible route

Changes in level greater than ½ inch (13 mm) equipped with a ramp

Ground surfaces that are firm,stable, and slip resistantClear width of pathways at least 36 inches (915 mm) wide

Minimum number of requiredaccessible parking spaces

If passenger loading zones areprovided, access aisles at passenger loading areas at

The design of the site should reflect the surrounding community withoutbeing isolated from theneighborhood. For example,buildings monumental in size andsituated in a concrete landscape maynot fit into the neighborhood contextand may be perceived as obtrusiveand intimidating. Conversely, facilitiesdesigned on a more human scale thatprovide landscape amenities accessibleto the public will foster a welcoming,approachable environment.

Site Design

Tips:

The ADA Guidelinesand other codes areminimums and do notalways satisfy theneeds of everyfacility. For example,if there are 20parking spaces in alot, the ADAGuidelines requireonly one accessibleparking spot. Oneaccessible parkingspot is inadequatefor a senior center,a health servicesorganization orfacility that houses adepartment ofdisability services.

Key Design Goals195

least 60 inches (1525 mm) wide by 240 inches (6100 mm) long parallel to the vehicle pull up space

Also Refer to:

ParkingCirculation

Access ib le

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Provide direct connection from parking lots, sidewalks and publictransportation systems to buildingentrances.

Ensure entrances and exits are easy tolocate and use.

Locate pick-up and drop-off area so itdoes not impede the flow of traffic.

Provide outdoor recreational settingsthat the public can use.

Information system that includesdirectories, maps, and signs to guidepeople towards their destinations

Paved pathways that connect to mainneighborhood pedestrian network

Passenger loading zones sized to fitthe expected visitor volume and allowusers to assemble without interferingwith pedestrian and vehicular traffic

Lighting along pathways for safetyand security

Emergency communications equipmentprovided wherever potential securityor safety threats exist

Tips:

If outdoor recreationareas for childrenare provided, use aperimeter fence orwall to improvesafety, makesupervision easierand protect the areafrom vehicles.Gates in the fencecan be open orlocked to the public,depending on theneed for security.

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Recommendations for Children’sEnvironments

ADA Guidelines for Children’sFacilities: mounting height of 18inches (455 mm) to 27 inches (685mm) above the floor measured tothe grab bar centerline instead ofthe 33 inches (840 mm) to 36 inches(915 mm) required for adults

At least one clear path of travel thatconnects all public and common useareas

Public telephones, drinking fountains,restrooms and other amenities locatedon an accessible path of travel

Where facilities house daycarecenters and other activities attendedby children ages 12 and younger,bathroom facilities to be readilyaccessible to and usable by allchildren; instead of following thestandard requirements for toiletrooms, follow the Accessibility

Human service facilities support amultitude of activities and people ofall sizes and ages. Therefore, exteriorand interior environments should bedesigned to accommodate a widerange of activities and people.

Provide a layout that canaccommodate many use patterns.

Provide flexible spaces that can becustomized per activity.

Make amenities easy to locate andaccessible by everyone.

Spatial Organization

Tips:

When access to partsof facilities will berestricted duringevening, weekend orholiday hours, ensurethat there will still bean accessible path oftravel to allprogrammed spacesand amenities thatare available for useduring these times.

Key Design Goals197

Also Refer to:

Using Public Amenities

Access ib le

Tips:

Social spaces areavenues forcommunication.The facility shouldprovide many spacesthat encourageinteraction as well as allow for isolationwhen it is needed.

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Signs to clearly identify restrictedareas (e.g., mechanical, electrical,utility, etc.)

Accessible services and amenities(e.g. restrooms) for different agegroups using separate parts of abuilding or site

Clearly distinguishable features (e.g., unique building features,color, signage, etc.) that make them identifiable from the otherswhen facilities include severalbuildings

Restrooms and other amenitieslocated in close proximity to activity areas

Appropriate open space providedfor related outdoor recreation during warm weather

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Entrances located on an accessiblepath of travel connected toaccessible parking, passengerloading zones, public streets andsidewalks

At least one accessible publicentrance or at least 50 percentwhere there are more than twopublic entrances

Signs at inaccessible entrancesindication the nearest accessibleentrance

Although human service facilities areopen to the general public, manybuildings require users to pass througha checkpoint for entry. Often, social andrecreational facilities (e.g., YMCA, JewishCommunity Center, senior centers) havereception desks inside the entry to checkfor membership or visitor cards. Withrecent concerns about security,government buildings have implementedspecial screening measures to ensure thesafety of all building occupants. Visitors,as well as employees, are required topass through metal detectors, X-raymachines and are subject to manual

Entrances

Tips:

Service Entrance: Anentrance intendedprimarily for deliveryof services. Examplesinclude entrancesused to bring foodsupplies andgarbage in and outof a communitycenter, a loadingdock entry, or a garage door.

Key Design Goals199

Service entrances used as anaccessible entrance only if they arethe only entrance to a building orfacility

Also Refer to:

Entering and Exiting

Access ib le

All public entrances reachable and usable by all types of usersregardless of their ages, sizes orabilities

Overhangs, recessed entries or othermeans of providing a covered areaat loading zones

Automated doors at entry thatprovide ease of access for peoplewith mobility impairments andaccommodate high flows ofpedestrian traffic

Turnstiles and gates replaced byother entry control devices that are

usable by everyone where security isrequired

Appropriately sized queuing forsecurity screening areas wherepeople may congregate

A reception desk where visitors can get information, guest passes,directions, etc.

Lobby with seating area adjacent to the entry where visitors can waitcomfortably without disrupting theflow of traffic

Direct access to public amenitiesfrom the lobby

Tips:

Many buildings haveinstalled an intercomsystem at theentrance. To gainaccess, visitors haveto push a call buttonto have the doorunlocked. Theintercom systemshould be mounted at a reachable heightfor someone eitherstanding or seatedand all featuresshould be usable by everyone.

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baggage searches. These areas mustnot only ensure passage for all users,but because these procedures mightcause slight delays during peak hours,there should be ample space toaccommodate those waiting in line in an environment that makes their wait pleasant.

Make entrances easy to locate andaccessible to all users.

Provide a lobby at entry fortransitional activities.

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Located on an accessible path of traveland connected to accessible parking,passenger loading zones, public streets,sidewalks and at least one entrance

Clear path of travel of at least 36 inches (915 mm) wide throughoutexcept at doors, where opening must be at least 32 inches (815 mm) wideand no more than 24 inches (610 mm) in depth

Knee spaces at least 27 inches (685mm)high, 30 inches (760 mm) wide and 19 inches (485 mm) deep for seating at tables

Human service facilities are often usedfor informational, educational, social orrecreational activities that strengthenand serve the community. Sinceprograms are open to everyone, theymust be highly flexible, multi-purposemeeting spaces that can accommodatealmost any event, whatever the size.Layouts should ensure privacy, provideefficient traffic flows and furnishingsshould offer flexibility in room design.Location should offer convenient accessto amenities and other public areas.

Meeting Rooms

Tips:

The number ofrequired audiblecommunicationreceivers is at least 4percent of the totalnumber of seats, butnever less than two.

Seating and tablescan be madeaccessible on an as-needed basis byremoving chairs

Key Design Goals201

Tops of tables between 28 inches (710 mm) and 34 inches (865 mm) from the floor

For meeting rooms without fixed seating where audible communicationis integral to the use of a space,provision of a permanently installedassistive listening system or electricaloutlets and supplementary wiring for a portable system

If a service counter or pass through isprovided, wheelchair clearance of30 inches (760 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) at the service counter and no higher than 36 inches (915 mm) high, or an adjacent counter no higherthan 34 inches

Access ib le

Connected to outdoor spaces to expandthe meeting area and increase options ingood weather

Partition walls provided to enable the space to be split into smaller rooms toincrease flexibility and control noise

Audio-visual equipment including dataprojection, slide projection, overheadprojector and lectern for workshops,seminars and other programs

Contrast of lighting and colors to enhanceperception abilities of people withreduced vision

Tips:

Choose furniture,colors, materials aswell as the design of the floor and wallcoverings to reflectthe expected users'cultural backgroundand aestheticpreferences.This may requiresome research and communityinvolvement during design.

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Adjacent lobby wide enough to allowusers to assemble while not obstructingthe path of travel

Layout, window and door placement tomaximize options for flexibility of spaceusage (e.g., conference, social gathering,seminar, dining area, etc.)

Restrooms, drinking fountains and otheramenities located within close proximity

Adjoining storage area to stow furnitureand equipment that is not alwaysneeded

Make easy to locate and reachfrom accessible entrances.

Provide appropriate maneuveringclearances to enable circulation by all users.

Ensure limited noise transmission toand from surrounding spaces.

Provide flexible arrangementconducive to all types and sizes of events.

Also Refer to:

SeatingCirculation

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7711Renovations

and Additions

Existing buildings can present a challenge to architects seeking to comply with accessibility codes but universal design can turn thatchallenge into an opportunity for creative intervention. In historicpreservation and adaptive re-use, programmatic and aesthetic concerns are the primary determinants of design decisions. Codecompliance is usually viewed as a constraint toward reaching the primarydesign goals. Less money is therefore devoted to access requirements than to other parts of the project. In universal design, however, theprimary goal is to increase usability and use that as a point of departurefor creative architecture. The "constraints" of existing buildings can beviewed as a context that informs the design concept. For example, theneed to add an elevator to an older building can be addressed byinserting a new vertical circulation core that can be the central focus ofthe new project. Instead of simply adding an elevator to meet codes the concept could include a multi-story space to connect several floors,a light well, a new decorative stairway and other architectural features.This inserted core also can be given an aesthetic treatment to contrast orharmonize with the rest of the building.

Renovation projects often include additions. Such projects offerconsiderable opportunity for universal design. Additions not only addspace, but also can change circulation patterns in older buildings.Additions, in conjunction with renovations to the older parts of buildings,can radically change the way buildings work and their relationship withsurrounding contexts. For example, older buildings with monumental

stairways at the exterior present a barrier to many individuals. Althoughsecondary entrances can provide accessibility according to code, a newaccessible primary entrance in an addition can provide an opportunity to use the site differently and enrich the entire building in the process.The case study of the Rose Planetarium on the facing page shows anexample of such an entrance condition.

Access to historic buildings is a means of providing access to culturalresources embodied in buildings. Achieving universal access to the city,then, should not ignore the need to make historic buildings accessible toall. In historic preservation, radical changes to the existing fabric of thebuilding, either inside, outside, or both, may be impossible because theywould destroy its historic character. In fact, the ADA and other accessibilitycodes allow historic preservation goals to supersede accessibility andrefer to local historic preservation officials to offer guidance. In universaldesign, the conflicts between access and historic character should not beused as a "reprieve" from improving access but a challenge to find othersolutions that may involve innovations in design and technology. Forexample, it may be possible to provide access to some important parts of a building but not others. When all else fails, the use of alternativemeans to experience the building is an acceptable alternative, but itshould be available to everyone and improve access to information about the building for the entire public.

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Case Study: Rose Planetarium

Building Overview

Originally built in 1887, New York City's American Museum of

Natural History (AMNH) added the Hayden Planetarium to its complex

in 1936. It was built to house and carry the overflow of exhibits and

visitors the popular museum was unable to support. However, after

over 50 years in existence, the addition desperately needed some

renovations and improvements. In 1993, a new Planetarium facility

was added to the building.

Addition

Initially intended to improve the condition of the facility and increase

attendance, the architects successfully managed to incorporate many

universal design features into the Rose Center's design. Rather than

serve as a constraint, accessibility provided an inspiration. The new

entrance on West 81st Street, between Central Park West and

Columbus Avenue, is not only visually appealing but also universally

designed. It provides a generous sheltered accessible entry with a

loading zone for cars and buses.

Ramped Exhibit

Besides the exterior's accessibility improvements, the Center's exhibits

also reflect many key goals of universal design. Holding both the new

Planetarium and the Big Bang Display, the addition enhances the

Museum's overall usability. For instance, while the Planetarium has

accessible routes and seating areas, the Big Bang display is built along

a spiraling ramp, referred to as the Heilbrunn Cosmic Pathway, which

permits visitors to view the exhibit from a stroller, wheelchair or from a

standing position. It also provides an overview of the other exhibits.

As illustrated, a conscious effort was made to use the addition project

as an opportunity to improve the Rose Center's overall accessibility.Top to bottom:

OverviewWest 81st Street entranceHeilbrunn Cosmis Pathway

All alterations to parts of buildings in compliance with the ADA Guidelinesand the City Access Code

If alterations are being made to aprogram area, at least 20% of the fundsin any project devoted to creating anaccessible path of travel to the alteredareas

Fully accessible additions with at leastone accessible path of travel connectingall buildings and facilities

Entire building must comply with ADAGuidelines in substantial rehabilitation ifwork is estimated to cost 50% or moreof the market value of the building

Establish direct access from additionsto all buildings and facilities.

Use renovations to improve usability ofexisting buildings.

Renovations andAdditions

Tips:

Changes in use, evenwithout renovations,require bringing thebuilding up to the city code, includingthe access code.

Local historicpreservationauthorities areentrusted withreviewing projectsand determining the extent of accessallowable.

Key Design Goals207

New York City code requires that:

if work is estimated to cost 60% or moreof the market value of the building in anytwelve-month period, entire building mustcomply with accessibility codes

if work is estimated to cost between 30%and 60% of the market value of thebuilding in any twelve-month period, entirebuilding must comply with accessibilitycodes

if work is estimated below 30% of themarket value of the building in any twelve-month period, those portions of thebuilding altered may be altered, at theoption of the owner, in accordance with therequirements of the code, or altered incompliance with the applicable laws inexistence prior to December 6, 1968.

Access ib le

Alterations and additions used to makeradical improvements in the usability ofexisting buildings by strategic insertionsof vertical circulation and improvementsin horizontal circulation

Additions used to improve therelationships of elements on the site and between the site and thesurrounding context, (e.g. new primary entrances)

Alternative technologies used toimprove access to historic buildings foreveryone, e.g. slide shows, videotapedprograms, virtual reality

Technologies used to provideinformation in alternative media that improve access to information for everyone

Material differences between historicand new structures that act as visualwayfinding cues, especially when theaddition contains a point of entry

Historic hardware preserved in historic buildings to comply with ADA Guidelines without retrofitting byinstalling an automatic door opener

Tips:

At the supermarketshown above, theneed to create anaccessible entrybecame the focalpoint for developinga covered outdoormarket in front of theentry. The curvedpathway was used to avoid the need for a ramp. The newcourtyard was roofedover and the spacealong the walkway isnow used for specialpromotions,effectively addingselling space to thissmall market.

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8811Conclusion

This book identifies many practical strategies for applying the Principlesof Universal Design to the design of the built environment. The strategiescan be used as a guide to help identify, reduce or eliminate problemsduring the design process. They can assist in making cost effectivedecisions and in addressing performance concerns before they becomeproblems. Incorporating universal design strategies into projects duringtheir initial design stages will ensure that buildings and the urbanenvironment in general are more navigable, efficient, and welcoming to awide range of individuals.

There are many specific benefits of practicing universal design. Clearlythe most important is the impact it will have on the citizens of thecommunity and its visitors. The practice of universal design will supportmore people in reaching their full potential as both individuals andparticipants in community life. Citizens and visitors will find the City moreof a friend and less of an adversary both in daily life and on importantspecial events when it means even more to them. Specifically, there will befewer hazards and hassles and more effortless movement and access toinformation. The City will be a better place to live, work, study, have funand enjoy social life.

Beyond the benefits to the City's inhabitants, there are also many fordesign professionals. By adopting the philosophy of universal design, thedesign professions will be viewed in a more positive light. Universal designmeans striving for constant improvement. Rather than perpetuating thesame conditions over and over, it means identifying and creating a moresupportive environment for living in every way possible. The message thisconveys is that designers care for others and that in itself brings respectfrom everyone affected.

**UniversalDesign Audit

Checklist

Design should adapt to people,not the other way around.

AD ASfurniture purveyors

This Checklist is designed to complete an audit of a design in process or a facility that is already in use. It covers key features of universal design.The Checklist is not designed for use as an audit for accessibility codecompliance because it does not cover the level of detail necessary.However, it is useful if an access audit is completed prior to using thisChecklist. There are many existing access audit forms that can be used.For compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we recommendusing the official ADAAG checklist available from the U.S. Access Board.

This Checklist is a new idea. It is not yet perfected but we think that many people will find it useful. We welcome suggestions and criticisms for developing it further.

For each site or building element in this Checklist, there are three levels of usability defined by the availability of specific features. The first levelis defined by basic access code compliance – worth one point. The nextlevel is a higher standard provided by basic access code compliance plusone or more additional features – worth two points. The third level is thehighest level of usability. It includes the features in the first two levels plusstill additional features – worth 3 points. In other words, all the featuresmust be present to rate 3 points. In some cases, the elements do not haveany code requirements so that the first level is not at the code compliancelevel.

How to Score this Checklist

Scores are computed as the percentage of the maximum score possible.

Calculation Steps:

Step 1 Count the number of sections you have rated,enter that number here:

Step 2 Total the scores of all the sections rated.

Step 3 The maximum possible score is the total in Step 1 multiplied by 3

Step 4 UD Audit Score for the Project simply divide total in Step 2 by total for Step 3.

Additional copies of this checklist are available online atwww.ap.buffalo.edu/idea

UD Audit Checklist213

How to Use this Checklist

To use the Checklist:

Step 1 Check all the sections to be included in your evaluation.

Step 2 Rate the level of usability for each element by checking the appropriate box in each section included.(either 1point, 2 points, or 3 points.)

Step 3 Calculate the project score as described below.Remember, to rate 3 points, the element listed must have all the features listed.

Site Issues

Access Points (omit this section if there is only one site access point)

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Only one accessible pedestrian access point to the site As per code

2 More than one pedestrian access point is accessible To serve different directions of access

3 All primary access points are accessible

Parking

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Required number of accessible spacesAs per code, including van accessible spaces, in each lot,Signs, access aisles and curb ramps where needed.

2 The route(s) from accessible parking spaces do not pass behind parked vehicles.In addition to above

3 Priority parking for different user groups close to entry For example, pregnant women, senior citizens

Passenger Loading Zones

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 An accessible loading zone As per code

2 Loading zone adjacent to a principal entry

3 Weather protection for passengers waiting at loading zonesFor example, people waiting for a busU

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Site Issues (continued)

Pathways

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Each site facility and accessible entrance can be reached along an accessible path of travel As per code

2 All facilities can be reached from a single continuous accessible path system without stairsRather than separate paths from different access points

3 Options for access to different facilities and entrances provide benefits for different user groupsFor example, a short path with stairs as well as a longer path without stairs

Vertical Circulation (omit if the site is all on one level and has no ramps)

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 All levels connected by ramp, lift or elevator As per code

2 Accessible circulation elements are integrated with the principal route(s) of travel For example, entry and exit for elevator are at the same relative locations as stairs.Ramps run in the same direction as the pedestrian paths

3 All paths of travel, including elevators are well lit and open to visual access Paths of travel are safe and secure

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Site Issues (continued)

Amenities (drinking fountains, telephones, garbage receptacles, etc.)

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Amenities are accessible As per code

2 Adjustable or alternative heights provided for amenities

3 Amenities are grouped together and conveniently located

Walking Surfaces

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Walking surfaces are all stable, firm, non-slip, and free ofdangerous overhanging hazards and unprotected falling hazardsAs per code

2 Walking surfaces are well drained

3 Walking surface textures aid in direction finding activities Tactile domes, guide strips or a distinctive track

Public Restrooms

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessible doors, circulation clearances, accessories, plumbingfixtures and grab barsDesigned per code and maintenance practices keep accessible

2 Fixtures and/or grab bars accommodate a wide range of different needs Adjustable heights for fixtures, options for grab bars and/or space for assisted transfers

3 Potty parity achieved for women's restroomsUni

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Building Issues

Entry

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessible circulation to doorways, sufficient door width and maneuvering clearances, opening force below limitsAs per code

2 All entries are accessible Rather than separate paths from different access points

3 Principal entries have automated doors and on grade accessIf there is a ramp, it is used by all visitors

Lobby

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 There is enough space for people who need to wait outside the flow of traffic No code requirements (This includes queuing areas at ticket booths)

2 Seating for people who have to wait

3 Convenient access to amenities, including restrooms If there is a security barrier, amenities available on both sides

Reception Area

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 A directory and wayfinding information are provided in visual as well as tactile or audible form No code requirements (someone available to assist visitors is a viable alternative)

2 There is seating for people who need to wait

3 Amenities and restrooms are located close by

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Building Issues (continued)

Doorways

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Doorways on accessible routes have sufficient door width and maneuvering clearances, opening force below limitsAs per code

2 All doors in building or facility are accessible

3 Automated doors provided at principal entrances Sliding automated doors are preferable

Vertical Circulation (stairs, ramps, elevators, lifts)

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 All levels connected by accessible ramp, lift or elevator As per code

2 Accessible vertical circulation is as safe, secure and convenient as stairs

3 Building or facility has only one level or all ramps, lifts and elevators are integrated fully into the path that everyone follows Entry and exit for elevator is at the same relative locations as for stairs

Walking Surfaces

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Walking surfaces are all stable, firm, non-slip, and free ofdangerous overhanging hazards and unprotected falling hazardsAs per code

2 Edges of walking surfaces well defined

3 Walking surface textures aid in direction finding activities Tactile domes, guide strips or a distinctive track

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Building Issues (continued)

Amenities (drinking fountains, telephones, garbage receptacles, etc.)

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Amenities are along accessible path, have wheelchair clearance space for access and operable parts are within accessible reach limits As per code

2 Amenities are located to the side of the direct path of travel

3 Amenities are grouped together and conveniently located

Restrooms

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessible doors, circulation clearances, accessories, plumbingfixtures and grab barsDesigned per code and maintenance practices keep accessible

2 Fixtures and/or grab bars accommodate a wide range of different needs Adjustable heights for fixtures, options for grab bars and/or space for assisted transfers

3 Potty parity achieved for women's restrooms

Service Counters

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 All service counters have accessible sections or auxiliary counters As per code

2 Counter heights are comfortable for a range of statures and forthe uses intendedFor example grid, linear spine, hollow square, hub and spoke

3 Privacy conditions are similar for all users

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Environmental Systems

Natural Illumination

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Adequate natural illumination is providedNo code requirements

2 Direct and reflected glare is minimizedExternal shading devices, light shelves, baffles, tinted glass, etc.

3 Occupant control over sunlight provided Blinds, shades, etc.

Artificial Illumination

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Lighting controls within reach and operable with a closed fist or open hand, wheelchair clearance for approach As per code

2 Illumination supports task performance, safety and security

3 Key features emphasized by higher illumination levelsFor example, landmarks, signs, stair treads

Acoustics

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Audible alarms are detectable over background noise levelsAs per code

2 Reverberation (echo) controlled to insure best sound for the activityOptimal reverberation times vary based on function

3 Background noise controlled to allow conversation and support concentration U

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Environmental Systems (continued)

Heating Ventilation and Air Conditions

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 All controls controls within reach and operable with a closed fist or open hand, wheelchair clearance for approach

2 All spaces heated and cooled effectively year round

3 Controls available to occupants for individualized adjustment

Communication Systems

Information and Direction Signs

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Signs for information and directions have large well proportioned characters, good contrast, easy to read fontsAs per code

2 Signs in prominent locations, well illuminated and worded effectively

3 Pictograms and/or alternative languages included

Room Identification Information

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Room identification signs have tactile characters, well proportioned fonts, good contrast, easy to read fonts, Braille, mounted at required height As per code

2 Room numbering system is logical and helpful in finding locations

3 Talking Sign® or similar technology for key destinations

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Communication Systems (continued)

Security Systems

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Security system As per code

2 Emergency communication devices in critical locations

3 Building access is monitored directly or through video

Emergency Alarms

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Controls within reach and operable with a closed fist or open hand,wheelchair clearance for approach to controls, warning devices haveboth visual and audible modesAs per code

2 Two way emergency communications in all remote areas Without requiring the ability to speak

3 Systems direct users toward safe routes during building evacuation

Public Address Systems

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Assisted listening systems (ALS) are provided As per code

2 Equivalent public information announcements through audible and visual modes For example, public address systems and electronic message boards or monitors

3 Wireless web access to current information

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Communication Systems (continued)

Telecommunications

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Public telephones are hearing aid compatible, mounted within reach, wheelchair clearance for approach, volume control and TTY access if requiredAs per code

2 TTYs or electrical outlet and shelf are provided at all publictelephone locations

3 Telephone system is hearing aid and TTY compatible

Public Information Technology

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 ATMs, ITMs and public Internet access points are within required reach, have wheelchair clearance, operable controls,alternate input/output methods As per code

2 Multiple payment methods are possible

3 Systems are adaptable to different statures, sensory abilities and languages For example, display angle can be adjusted

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Program Spaces

Work Stations

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessible circulation to all work spacesAs per code

2 Extra space for future accommodations

3 Options for sitting and standingFor example, a sit-stand workstation or a seat for a security guard

Public Assembly

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessible seating area and stages, assistive listening system (ALS), line of sight to activitiesAs per code

2 Circulation designed to accommodate large volume of traffic

3 Amenities and restrooms in predictable and obvious locations

Outdoor Recreation

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessible path of travel to all facilities As per code

2 Seating for onlookers at all long term attractionsFor example, playgrounds, tennis courts and playing fields

3 Protection from excessive sun and sudden rain

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Program Spaces (continued)

Exhibit Spaces

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessible path of travel, alternative media for all descriptiveinformation and audio-visual presentations, accessible sight lines for all displays, interactive devices within accessible reach ranges and have operable controls

2 Seating dispersed throughout exhibit

3 Information in alternative languages for major exhibits

Sleeping Rooms

Score Level of usabilityNotes

1 Accessibility to a minimum number of roomsAs per code

2 Additional rooms are accessible or adaptable for a wide range of needs

3 All rooms are accessible or adaptable for a wide range of needs

Additional Notes:

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**Credits

Thank you to the many peoplewho helped make this book areality. Without the diligentwork and effort of those listed,this book would not have beenpossible.

Danise LevineEditor-in-Chief

Danise Levine, M.Arch.

Danise Levine, M. Arch.Edward Steinfeld, Arch.D., AIA

Alex Bitterman, M. Arch., Assoc. AIAHally El-Kony, M.S.

Danise Levine, M. Arch.Alex Bitterman, M. Arch., Assoc. AIAEdward Steinfeld, Arch.D., AIA

Alex Bitterman, M. Arch., Assoc. AIA

Jordana MaiselHeather LindsayEric Dolph

Edward Steinfeld, Arch.D., AIAGary Scott Danford, Ph.D.Beth Tauke, M.F.A.

Editor-in-Chief

Authors

Contributors

Illustrations

Art Direction

Production Assistants

Editorial Review

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