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As the final example makes clear, there is a continuum from product
selection to product placement. The most accessible dispenser is unusable if
mounted incorrectly. Unfortunately, contractors have long-established
construction standards that often place the paper towel or other dispensers
far above the reach range of someone who uses a wheelchair or walker. Once the elements are designed and in place, the final obstacle is
maintaining the restroom - and maintaining the accessible elements. The
placement of the trash receptacle directly under the paper towel dispenser
prevents someone with a disability from getting close enough to reach the
dispenser. The simple solution is to move the receptacle to another location
and make sure the housekeeping staff keeps it there. The past ten years have seen great progress in accessibility. But it
requires an ongoing effort to make sure that the design or product will truly
be accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. What’s more,
it’s essential that facility executives understand that product selection is
only the starting point: Installation must be done with height and placement
in mind, and maintenance of a restroom is just as crucial to accessibility as
product selection and installation. Joan Stein is president
and CEO of Pittsburgh-based Accessibility Development
Associates Inc.
E-mail comments and questions.
Building Operating
Management FacilitiesNet was created
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Closer Look
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Design Continued |
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Building
Operating Management October 2003 |
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Accessibility Development Associates, Inc. |
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