DOCUMENT RESUME.o

ED 239 464 'EC 161 801

AUTHOR Hanson, Lisa; And OthersTITLE Designing with'Care. A Guide to Adaptation of the

Built Environment-for Disabled Persons.INSTITUTIOR Swedish Internatfonfil Development Authority (SIDA).;il United Nations,.New York, N.Y.

PUB DATE ' Jan 83.

NOTE

PUB TYPE

EDRS.PRICEDESCRIPTORS

103p.; SUPport also provided by the United NationsCentre for Human Development.Guides - Non-Classroom Use.(055)

MF01/PC05 Plus Postage.*Accessibility (for Disabled); Building Design;Design Requirements; *Developing Nations;*Disabilities; *Enviroftmental Standards; *StructuralElements (Construction)

ABSTRACTDeveloped as part of the. International Year of

Disabled Persons, the guide is intended to help planners, ardhitectS,and designers to accommodate the built environment of developingregions for disabled persons..Guidelines,focus on public building inurban or village settings and emphasize simple solutions'to common\Problems. Following an introductory section "Mich provides backgroitdlinformation, a second section examines suchgenexal considerations as

categories of digabled persons (and dimensions data for'wheel -chair use). Environmental, considerations are addressed in thekhird section with information on prevention, basic physical

,requirements, identification of such problems as diffkculti-esinentering buildings, and design requirements. A fourth sectioncontains a series of recommendations regarding commonly used desfgnfeatures'of infrastructures (transportation systelps, pedestrianroutes, footpaths and roads, street fuxhiture, and sign posts) aswell as of building elements (entrances, doors; ramps, staircases andsteps, handrails, windows, lifts, sanitary and electrical controls,signs, and areas =such as\ passageways snd"baihrooms). Two finalsections cover statutory and financial considerations,. Among nineappendixes are-a 39 -item 'annotated bibliography and a list ofpertinent United Nations resolutions. (CL)

* Reproductions supplied by EDRS are'the best that can be made, *from the original document.

.. 7 *

**********;************************************************************

V

U S DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF EOUCATION

EDUCATIONAL RESQUR.CES INFORMATIONCENTERIERICI

This document has been reproduced esreceived from the person or organizationoriginating it

U Minor chattges have been made to improvereproduction quality

Points of view or opinions ;toted in this document do not necessarily represent official NIE

position or policy

"PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THISMATE L HAS BEEN GRANTED BY

1 TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCESINFORMATION CENTER (ERIC)" t.-1411

7;

VIEW&

-2-1145"" ;,(I

.7-

4$fingr il*Prij°

PREFACE

11

The year 1981 was proclaimed by the United Nations'General Assembly as the International year of Dis-abled Persons. The theme: full participation andequality was ad.ppted with the task of encouraging therehabilitation 151 the world's estimated 450 millionpeople who have some form of physical or mentalimpairment.

This Guide has been prepared as a result of theimplementation of the Plan of Actio'h of the Interne-.tional Year of Disabled Persons which, asindicated in 'the Appendix 5:0 page 100, calls for the preparation

N of a series of Manuals covering different aspects ofbarrier free environment for disabled persons. In

7- order to respond to the immediate needs in this fieldof all countries, and in particular the developingcountries, and in order to avoid possible duplication ofefforts, it has been decided to combine the subject ofthe above mentioned series of manuals inot one man-ual and to entrust its preparation to a consultant con-tracted by the United Nations.

-This Guide is the result of the, joint co-operation be-tween the Swedish Internatienal, Development Auth-ority (SIDA), the United Nations and the United Na-tions Centre for Human Settlements(HABITAD.'

It was compiled by the Swedish consultant firm ofWhite & Partners AB, Architects and Planners.. The'principal contributor was Ms Lisa Hanson with activesupport from Mr Kurt Axelsson and Mr Stenstrom, all architects, members of SAR.

Illustrations were by Ms Birgitta Algesten and Mr.HansGronlund.

The project was financed by SIDA, the United Nationsand UNCHS.

Ei

The parallel production of an educational slide seriesillustrating many df the points made in the g'Gide hasbeen prepared by Mr Bo-Erik Gyberg, aiovisualproducer for United Nations Centre for Human Settle-ments in collaboration with SIDA.

NoteThe publication reflects the views of the consultants that have beenen: ud with its preparation.and do not necessarily represent an officel

`position of the United Nations.

CONTENTSPace 1

Contents 3

Abbrevations art Definitions 4

INTRODUCTION

Background. 5the Problem 6the Scope of.the Guide- 8the Aim of the Guide 9the Form of the Guide '10

GENERAL CONSIDERATIONSzCategories of Disabled Persons 11

Dimensional Data 14

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONSPrevention 16Basic Physical Requirements 19Problem Identification andDesign Requirements 21

'DESIGN RECOMMENDATION'S 33Infrastructure' Facilities

'"transportation Systems 34

Pedestrian Routes 36Footpaths and Roads 38Street Furniture`, 40

Building ElementsEntrances 42Doors 4Ramps 46Staircases and Steps 48Handrails 50Windows 52Lifts 54

7"ss

Sanitary Electrical Controls 56Signs 58COO Areas 60

STATUTORY CONSIDERATIONS 64

V

k

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS 66

CONTENTS-

Appendices 1 Comparative scheme, Norms 70

2 Annotated bibliography 72

3 ttandards, bibliography 80

Li- Summary of the most important measures tcrevent disability 854

5 UN.res9lutions 86

6 Other reSulutions 98

7 IYDP 1981 objectives of the year 99

8 Furictional requirenlerits in the physical environment, scheme 100

9 Abbreviations 102

.

FA

Abbreviations andDefinitions

According to WHO:

An impairment is any loss or abnormality of psycholo-gical, physiological or anatomical structure or func-tion.

A disability is any restriction or lack of ability to per-form an activity in the manner or. within the rangeconsidered normal for a human being (resulting froman impairMent).,

A handicap is a disadvantage for a given.individual,resulting from an impairment or a disability that limitsor, prevents the fulfil of a role that is normalf depending upon age, d social or cultural fac-tors) for that individual.

Another definition by DPI:

Handicap is the loss or limitation of opportunities totake part in the normal' life of the community on anequal level with others.

INTR\DOLX1-101>1..

ac kg ro u n d

rIOnCOMMUlli-cablc somatic

disease

C1(50:15C

tincaotTol. .psychlatnc

C1i5tUrbOnCe.

dr IC 01C01)01,i9T1& drug abuse

I

Disability such as limited mobility caused by age, ll-ness or accident, may restrict the opportunities for theperson concerned and his or her family, to fully par-ticipate inlhe life of the community.

An estimate of the magnitude bf the siisAbility problemin develcipinvegions is that at least one child in ten isborn with, or acquires, a physical, sensory or mentalimpairment. The estimate can rise by 15 or 20 %depending on the definition of disability and the condi-

, bolas.

One estimate of the world incidence of disa-bility fromUNICEF in 198014UNICEF News, Issue 105) gives atotal of 514 millions. The tentative distribution of thisincidence is shown in the adjacent piediagram.

In 1975 the number of people throughout the worldaffected by 'all types and degrees of disability wasestimated at 12.3 percent of the wor4population* Bythe year 2000, their number is anticipated to reach anestimated 13.5 percent.-

Wnile.these statistics in themselves are alarming, thegeographical distribution of cases illustrates the needfor urgent attention in developing regions.

Disabled persons in developing as, well as industrial-ized countries find barriers in the planned environ-ment which restrict tb/grir independence.

The problem is how to integrate disabled persons inthe economic and social life from which they have sofar been excluded by both cultural and physical bar-riers.

It is impolant, therefore, that those whO develop poli-cies for both building design and urbrn planningshould take accalint of the needs of disabl,.. persons.

Source: John H Noble Jr "Population and Development Prob-iems Relating to Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation, 1981"

7

INTROIDUC-TION

The Problem

Basic Requirements:reach

enter.

Use

The population structure in the developing world Isnot the same as in the .developed. The number. ofelderly people in deVeloped countries Is large whencompared with that in the developing world. However,with i roved health care and better nutrition it isanticip tad that this situation will change.

The resultant increase in the number of disabled andelderly persons, in developing countries, coupled tochanging life styles, emphasis the need for ;greateraccessibility to public facilities than at *sent.

In some parts of the world substantial 'experiue ofplanning with consideration for the disabled harbeengained. SorrtS of this experience has been used asthe basis for this Guide.

,Recognizing thathere will be varying econorrfic,so-cial and cultural situations prevailing in the developingcountries, and that building laps and regulatiOn willvary, it is suggested that the basic physical require-ments governipgptgvision,for the disabled should besimilar.'These requirements have been formulated inthe Guide (page 21).

Many of the features that oake the Wilt environmentaccessible to, and convenient (dr use by disabledpeisons, will also make it more manageable, forothers., .Many physical barriers in the environment can beavoided at little or no cost if they aretonsidered at the

4), planning stage, whit p. others can be removed withoutdifficulty during rer'hodelling and renovation workS,

Iv although some may be extremely costly.

It is important to avoid expensive alterations in acomplete ttuilding. In areas with limited financial reI sources this is even more important. Measures toensure, -accessibility for disabled persons shouldtherefore be taken during the planning and design \stages.

la

If

I NTROID aTrOKi.,J

7

The Problem ,

v

a r.

4

The principle of Current handicap policy is that dis-abled persons should not be segregated from the restof the populatitn but assimilated as much as possible.

facilitate 'this, the built environment should be( made accessible for those, who rely on personal or

technical aids in order to participate fully in any sociallife. t .

)Mobility is one of the most crucial factors in the reha-bilitation of disabled persons.

However, in order to get people mobile, indigenoustechnical aids such as crutcties, carts, wheel-chairs,cycles, and sticks based on appropriate local technolo-gy are required. Nevertheless it is probable that sup-port from family members, helpeis or others WI conti-nue to be required for the forest able future.'

By making it an expressed requirement that the USA,environment shduld be accessible to everybody dis-abled persoffs will become increasinglywacceptedsociety.

ac

q

4

v

INTRODUCTION

The. Sc#,

I

of the Guide .

/-50CIAL. REOAREMErfsv ,

cotopy run! village titandisaDtcl , h context context. context

I. 11110yit)

3. nearing ----4.1caning

W 1aNXY"6. fits

A physical environment which satisfies the 'demandsunposed by different groups of disabled pooplo, willnot only moot the needs of these pooplo, but theneeds o) all pooplo.

This auide assesses the physical environroerltal re-quirbtnents for disabled p6rson.

It souks to ensure that ttie fututo ilt environment will.be adapted to the needs of disc ed persons.

HOwever7lt is clear that elnore comprehensive ap-ach to the entire disability problem, including the

presrent social and environmentarsituation is necess-,ary if cbvinuity, and the goal of full participation by .

,... disabled persons, is to I be achieved. Such an ap-proach is outside the scope of this Guide.

The Guide does, however; deal with a series of speck,tic compdhents in the built environment. The.aJjacent

-1'n, diagram illustrates the place of these "Environmental.Functional Requirements" In the cverall problem.

Further more, the detailed technical solutions to theproblem Is not Included but shouJ1 be soloed for eachspecific situation by the local architect or planner,considering the design recommendations formulated

this Guide.

l aidsA matrix of the relationship between disabilities and

Uzi infocitoadling elements in the built environment is included inI icalth one Appendix 8.

ENVIRONAENTAL FUNGI L ItEQUIltemENT3"Id= tzstential mOlic tuxhirg

. A.. .

.).I. Movingz, scvngY. tranyg1. ICarnivg5. 5tnangc,

tr.haviair6 Ms

INTRODUCTION

The Aim of the Quide

I/

a

The aim of the Guide is to facilitate the work of plan:nth s, architects, and designers, as well as others whoare engaged in public 'and private building projects Indeveloping regions.

The Guide Is also directed to deciSion makers anddonor organisationgto help them cvaluate projects Inthese areas.

...

'Experience has shown that buildings can often- bemadd accessible to disabled persons at little or noextra cost if the problem is considered at the planningstage.

The Guldejefers.primarily to publraufldings at urbanor village level. Particular attention has been givento-urban areas where building activities are most exten-sivebut the recommendations should also be applic7able r building in rural areas. /The Guide attempts to present simple solutions tofrequently occurring practical problems, in order toMake public buildings and the entire urban environ-ment usable for various groups 4disabled persons.

The Guide illustrates planning and design recommen-dations ,for public and other4buildings and concen-trates on the prOblerns of developing regions. Fur-thermore, for practical."reasons, illustrations andexample's refer to conditions pertaining to Eastern andCentral Africa.

".

INTRODUCTION

The Form of the Guide

e

- i i

The Guide is organised Into three main sections.

The introductory chapter presents background infor-mation and is followed by a chaptor providing .basicInformation on ,disabled persons, their requirements,and an analysis of their problems.

These chapters which should describele problamare followed by comprehensive design rbcommenda-tions, dimensions, and design criteria.

TheGuide is completed by two chapters dealing withlegislative and financial considerations.

The Appendices to the Guide contain reference ma-terial including bibliographies, a list of existing norms;relevant UN docutnents and regulations prevailing insome selected countries. 1

The de4gn recommendations given in this Guide aim

at maklhg both buildings and ttie physical enviton-,,,ment generdlly adapted to the specific needs of thedisabled population. , -'.The recommendations relate to the design of build-ings such as schwls, health facilities, Idcal adminis-tratioq offices, recreational facilities, plades of wor-

, ship, transportation facilities, etc, built by local con-k% tractors or through direct labour, and Mich may be

the responsibility of any local &thorny,. li,o;vever, it isalso anticipated that many of the reo&Ommendations

4 shown in this Guide can'be applied to private build--ings, traditiOnal dwellings, a9d local settlements,where financial resources are lienited.

These recommendation may tie applied ip technical-.

ly advanced buildings suctoas multi-stbrey structures,1:1but in respect of sophistiQate systems and certain

specific details, the architect and contractor shouldrefer to the current internatiorial rc5)gulations and pub-lished advisory notes.

. - .

la

ERAL:CQSiDERATIONS

Categoiles of DisabledPersdns

Six categories of handicapped persons are referred toby WHO in the report "Training the disabled in thecommunity" published in 1980, see aripendix 2, an-notated bibliography page 73. These categories aredefined to the following:

persons who have moving difficultiespersons,who have seeing diffidultiespersons who have hearing and/or speech difficul-ties

-persons who have learning difficultiespersons who have strange behaviour

_persons who have fits

Within these prificipal categories there is a wide varia-

tion in the degree of disability occurring.

Multiple disabilities should also be considered e g bymeans of combination of recommended measure-ments.

Persons who have allergies are not included in thedefirVtions but should of course still be considered for 'their 'specific problems.

These categories of disabled persons experience dif-ferent problems with the invironment and thereforerequire a wide variety of different measures to . betaken.

The categories of disabled persons dealt with in theGuide are described in orderof their functional limita-lions and the causes ofthe disability.

13

_RALQpN$IDERATI6N1q.

Categories of Disabled'Persons

Persons who have moving difficulties. This is thegroup to which most planning and design guidelines.

refer. Two 'sub-groUps' maY be distinguished;*thosewho rely on walking aids or dther technical supports,and those ikho are confined to wheel-chairs.

In the developing countries wheel-chairs are fewbinnumber and:their use is striotly limited for economicas well as environmental retsons. The built ,eriviron-

' ment should therefore facilitate the use Of wheelchairsas well as moving arburid with the help 'Of. varioustechnical aids. .

Ambulant disabled people-may walk unsteadily, relY-.Ing on a stick or crutches for support. In, addition,. theymay only be able to walk short distanbes and may'have difficulties in climbing stairs.

The needs of persons confined to wheel-chairs arerel4ted to the problems of moving around iii a wheel-chdir, or working from it. Many requirements are

,.. therefore associated with the dimensions and charac-- teristics of wheel-chairs. This is especially true for

recommended dimensions given as planning guide-lines in the majority of industrialized countries.

.

For the developing countries, a ombined handdriventricycle /wheel -chair has be n developed whichshould be suitable for local ma ufacture in developingcountries and which requires specific dimensions foraccess.

Difficulty in moving may be caused,* a number offactors, including congenital accident, disease andgeriatric reasons. Some diseases such as polio andleprosy, which are common in developing areas,willalso-inhibit movement if n'ot properly treated.

Persons. who have seeing difficulties. These per-sons have problems with orientation and mobility..Reading difficulties may increase orientation difficul-ties. However orientation can for some people beaided through the use of colotir, illumination, and incertain cases the texture of material. Building designand layout which are simple and straight forward mayincrease the orientation possibility.

Blindness or acute seeing difficulties may be causedby disease, -accidents, or by congenital factors. Itshould also be remembered that visual acuity isusually related o,.ageoDiseases such as measles,trachoma, cataracts, etc, maycause.blindness if nottreated properly and in time. Other cdnditions such asriver blindness,... caused by a parasite, and which iscommon in the tropics may lead to,blindness. Lack of.vitamin A in a child's diet may cause blindness.

In the developing Nions blind people are usuallydependent on a help , often a young member of thefamily:

Persons who have hearing and/or speech diffi-culties. These persons are seriously affected by theenvironment without showing any outward signs of

_NE-134 CONSIDERATIONS

Categories of DisabledPersonS

a

a

tit

-15

Since persons with hearing' difficulties have difficultyin comprehending sounds of words in noisy envirdn-ments, rooms should be acousticalky well designedand insulated. a

People withimpaired hearing' may rely on lip readingfor communication, a technique which is helped bygood general lighting.,

Loud-speaker systems in public buildings should notonly be adjusted so as to be clearly audible, but sup-plementary visual information sht,; ould be provided.

-kk

Deafness may be caused by diseases such as otitis,and mastoiditis which if not treated properly, will leadto hearing difficulties.

Persons who have learning difficulties. It is al-ways essenlial that the built environment and build-ings are organized in a sample layout so that one caneasily orientate oneself in them and this is especiallyimportant ft( persons who have learning difficulties.

Learning difficLies may have genetical or medicalorigins; or may be the consequence of malnutrition.

Persons who have strange -behaviour. Tkesepersons do not impose any other requirements withrespect to the physical environment than those -al =-ready made by other groups.

Persons who have fits. These are many in develop-ing regions and most of them are children.

People who have fits have a tendency to fall and injurethemselves so to avoid the risk of seyere-irijury asmany sharp edges and Corners_as-pbisible should beavoided,.

In many traditional houses open fire-places constitutea risk for epileptic persons who may fall into the fireand-receive severe burns.

Fits are generally caused by epilepsi, which i3 asymptom of electrical disorder in the brain, and maybe associated with a number of different conditions(e g head-injury, stroke, brain tumour, loss of oxygenduring birth). The prevalence of epilepsy in industriali-zed countries is about 0.5 per cent which means thatin a population of 1000, 5 persons have attacks duringone year. It is far more common in Africa and hasbeen estimated at between 1.4-14.7 per cent in diffe-rent studies, partly depending on what conditions areincluded.

In addition to the six main categories persons who,have allergies may be considered. Presently it isconsidered to be a small group in developing regions,but one can assume that this group is increasing.Albinos may be dealt' with in the same category. Per-sons who have allergies may be sensitive to dust,mite, mildew, pollen, animal hair, formalin, turpentine,etc. Some people are sensitive to contact with spb-stances and materials as nickel, chromium, and rub-ber.

ERAL CONSIDERATIONS

Dimensional Data

900

Currently wheel-chairs are n6t widely available to, or--.-used 1.21disabled persons in developing countries.Nevertheless it is anticipated that wheel-chairs andother mechanical aids .will become more generally.available in the future..

By applying even at this stage, dimensional criteria-.. from developed -countries which take account of :,

wheel-chair use, the pUilt environment --will beprogressively adapted to this expected deVelopimerit.

Adequate spide to allow for manoeuvring of, wheel-chairs ill- generally ensure adequate space for dis-.abled sons with other technidal aids or with ah

. assists t.

Dimensional data for designing with regard to therequirements of the disabled mIst refer to the scale ofboth people with and without mobility aids. In the:industrialized countries these dimensions refer mostly to persons confined to wheel-chairs. ..."'

Wheel-chair dimensions and space requirement a5/areof particular importance in buildings with respect tocirculation spaces, passagewaft, etc.

The length of wheel-chdirs is generally between 1100and 1200 m.

The tridth of wheel-chairs is generr . -tween 600.. .

and 00 mm.

The comfortable reach of persons confined to a,wheel-chair is restricted to a zone between 700-1200nom above floor level and notless than 400 mm frothroom corners..

Dimensional Data Requirer,nents for manoueuvring space are always re-lated to the activities to be performed. Different usersperform activities in different ways, depending on in-

t,.dividual performance and the type of wheel-chaired.

When plannin buildings to cater for wheel-chair turn-ing space, a ci le of 1500 mm diameter is a suitableguideline. -

For developing regions, it is proposed that dimen-sional data should reflect the standards being adopted,in many developed countries which are based onwheel-chair use. This will ensure adequate space forthe disabled person being supported by an assistantor using simple walking aids.

ConsideratiOn raust.be given to the facr that peoplevary in size and stature. Measures given here refer tpaverage perSons according to current internationalliterature. Jt ; should be remembered, though, thatpeople vary in size individually as well as regionally 0far example the Masai people of. Kenya, the pygmiesof etvtral Zaire, or even the Japanese.

Design Guidelines for the adaptation of'the built en-vironment to disabled persons are currently beingprepared in a number of countries, including Japan,where studies are being conducted by the Depart-mentof Rehabilitation at the School of Medicine, Uni-versity of Tokyo and by Australian Council for Rehabi-litation of Disabled, International Commission onTechnical Aids. (See annotated bibliography page 79)

ERAL GONSIDpIATIQNS,

Dimensional Data

GENERAL CONSIDEFIATIONS

Dimensional Data

1600

19

NERptLCONSIDERATIONS

PfeN/ention

Mputritiondiseaseaccidentconljenital mnditiorioth64.causes

disability 4

The environmental approach to,_the prevention ofdisability is of great Importance('

cf.Measures to diminish bdisability and, handlbaP.,are.pfgreat impOrtance, and should be given pribrityWhern,ever possible.

WHO defines prevention at three different levels.

A

4 Primary leVel prevention -- includes all action taisen fo ;..

reduce.th&occurrence of impairment. , ,i,-.

741

r ,..

-,, Secondary level preVention includes all action raken I..

to reduce the transition of impairment into disability.

handicap

Tertiary level prevention° includes all action taken toreduce the transitions of dis,ability into handicap.'

1

It is at the primary level that prevention is perhapsmost irripprtant and beneficial.

While the population will always contain a proportionof disabled persons, every effort Ahould be made toensure that impairments do notNoccur in_the firstplace.

The WHO publication "Trdining the Disabled in the.Community" provides a summary of the most import-ant measures to prevent disability. This publicationshows how design of the physical environment playsan important contributory role in preventing impair-ment and avoiding disabilities.

A summary of the moot portant measures to p7e-vent disability as defined by WHO is given in Appen-dix 4, page 85.

The implementation of preventive measures mayoften be seen as the responsibility of "society". Indeveloping. regions the traditional "extended family"is likely to remain the basis for economic, sbcial, andcultural life.

20.4

NVIRONMENTAL CON$1.DERATION

Basic ,PhysicalRequirements'

The. UN .goal "hill participation and equality" impliesthat no part of the built environment shall be-designedin a manner which excludes certain groups of people.by virtue of theircdisability.

-

To achieve a good environment there is a number of .

guiding principles which are recognisable. Referenceto these thr6ughout the planning and design processwill ensure a high degree of adaptatioA. These basicprinciples can be formulated as follows:

° reach, it should be possible to reach all places andpublic buildings;enterit should' be possible to enter all public build-ings; and

It should be possible se of all public .

facilities and envlronme arra ements.

,These basic guiding principles may be nterpreted into .

a series of five or six general requi ements whichshould be considered in the physical planning anddesign. These general requirements may be ,surn-marized as follows:

. accessibility the built environment shall be de-signed so that it is accessible for all people

J °reachability *provisiorr sh'all be made in the built

environment so that as many places and buildingsas possible can be reached by everybody

. usabilitythe built environment shall be designedso that it Can be used and enjoyed by all people

orientation the built environment shall be de-'signed so that it is easy, to orientate and fipd one'sway in

safety the built environment shall be designed sothat people can move around witrout undue,to life and health.workability places, of work toth,,offices and',industrial premises should be design: to allow'participation and contributions by disd: people.

Constant reference to these basic requirements dur-ing the planning and design. process will help ensurethat the possibilities of creating a good environment .

will be substantial.

A good environment which satisfies these require-ments, can be obtained in a variety of ways. Theseinclude the removal and avoidance of physical bar- ,

riers, unnecessary changes of level and steps, theprovision of adequately dimensioned entrances anddoorvvay8, sufficient circulation space, and by simplelayouts and careful design.

use

I

.1

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Prbblem Identification

and Design Requirements

Pt>

a

In order to provide a basis for the formula ion of suit-able design criteria, attention, is given in this section tdpre cling problems in the. built environment and tothe Aficulties facing disabled persons.

Attention is put on common problems which arise for .011

disabled persons in the built environment.

The illustrated examples of problems have beengrouped according to their relative position in he builtenvironment, namely:

moving about; the space between buildingsentering buildings' */Internal cammunicatkms, horizontal and verti-calindividual rooms.

The. groups of examples of problems have heen orgq:nized from the "whole" of the built environment dowWto individual "bans". The examples of physical bar-ridrs which illustrate general problems aregiven as abackground to the formulation of general design crite--ria. These criteria provide a basis for design of theenvironment in such a manner that obstacles andbarriers are avoided.

22

.

,J

NVIRONMENTAL CONSACERATION

Problem Identificatioti lkstacies which cause difficulties to movement. between different parts. of the outdoor environ-

ment-constitute a conflict with the basic require-;ment of orientation and accessibility. The prob-:lems which arise are often associated with' mo!vement between buildings on roads,' paths,

. footways, etc.

It III Ill

$

Orientational klifficulties

Interruptions In Mot paths

Qrientational difficulties such as finding the entrancetb a building cause delays, irritation, and exhaustionfor the ablebodied as well as for thedisabled persons.For a person with moving difficulties, finding one'sway quickly and directly, without mistake or detours,is often a majo1/4prodlem. For persons with heardifficulties, or thoSe Who are unable to ask the wa.7itis irritating.

Interruptions in the pedestrian footpath network areboth an inconvenience and a danger, especially if it

° means4hat pedestrians are forced to ttie the roadwayinstead. Such iriterruptions are common where roads.

,pross a river'oaailw4 on a narrow bridge, For per-sons who rely eiN wheel-chairs or other mechanicalaids, an incomplete pedestrian footpath makes furthertravels extremely difficult without substantial Whelp.Having to compete for,space on a road' with vehiculartragic involve 4 danger, with the risk oIccident andinjury. I

Differences in level on roads and foot paths are virtual-ly impossible to avoid even in relatively flat terrain.The use of steps to bridge a chang &of level makesacdess impossible tor, persons contThed to wheel-chairs. The situation is nearly as bad for persons usingbicycles or any form of wheeled transport. In order to'promote "a segregation between shOtor vehicles andpedestrian traffic, pedepian systems with suitablygraded ramps should supplement flights of steps. '

23c

k1 RON MENTAL\ CONSIDERATIONS

\ .., ...

Uneven surfaces, or paths full of nits. or 'hole§ aredifficult to walk on even fOr normal pet pons. For dis-\\abled persons uneven' surfaces-,fnake movement

even more difficult. Pushing or pullirig any form of jWheeled transport,

effort and cau e slow kogress. For visuallyrt, suh as a wheel- chair, will involve

,disabled persons upeven surfaces will be an extra

Ihazard,while slippery sprfaces are:extremely difficult

for persons relyinb on crutches or .Using a walking-stick.

1, I-

Uneven surface

3rojecting building. elements

i.Obstacles on the grclund can be of a temporary or apermanent nature, and may be considered as inter-ruptions in the road or pedestrian network. Climaticconditions, e.g heavy rains, may increase the prob-lem. For those with moving difficdijes obstacles willmean an irritating detour. For the' blind or visuallyimpaired obstacles will pose a further hazard overwhich they can stumble and hurt themselves.

1 I

fibstactes such as projecting building elements aye arther safety hazard in the built environment. Ex-

amples of such obstacles are projecting signboards atlow level, low doorways, open staircases, balconiesand windows or shutters which do not open 180°.

Deign Requirementsri

Pedestdan routes In the built environment shallbe designed, In a manner which makes, thempossible to use when' moving from any oneentrance to another. This means that communi-catio9 routes should be easy to find, continuous,easy to use, free froth. *unexpected obstacles;have a firm surface and be properly dimensio-ned.

24P.

ENVIRONMEN.1- AL CONSIDERATIONS

problem Iddntificationkvariety of problems connected with entering abuilding,or a vehicle can be readily observed.Problemst.* associated with entering a buildingcan'be- related to those of orientation and thoseof accessibility.

. No distinct entrance

Difference between outdocir d indoor.levels

DiffidultieS' in finding the entrance may be caused byconfusing or illogical design, excessiv petition ofsimilar design elements, or a lack adequate, sign-pdsting."' j

r

\ .

Differences between external ground levels andinternal floor levels are common, and frequently thereare entrance steps in. front of public buildings.

Reasons for raising the ground-floor of the buildingmay vary from pure architectural aesthetics to practic-al avoidance of seasonal floddwater. However, withregard to accessibility for disabled people such a dif-ference in level is a complication.

s25.

IRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Narrow entrance

lnadequate.spacen in front of door '.

Poorly designed door handle

I

With ,regard to functional dimensions, narrow en-tranceg to buildings or vehicles can make access forwheel-chairs impossible, and cause diffictIties forpersons relying on crutches, or being assigted by aseconcrRerson.

?"

I

17.

Inadequate space in front of doors. The unobstructedcirculation space in front of, or behind a, door, issometimes too small to allow manoeuvring of awheel-chair or to accommodate a person with other.walking aids. Wrongly hung doors or opening direc-.tion may further encroach on this limited free area.

X

Poorly designed .and wrongly located door handlesare a further problem for many disabled persons whenalone.

Design Requirements At least one entrance to envy building shall beeasy to-find and easy tOree by any persons ir-respective Of whether they have ImPaired move.'ment or seeing difficulties.

S,

VIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Problem Identification Moving from the entrance area of a building tothe various rooms may be difficult or even Im-possible for some disabled persons. If the build-ing is not properly designed, problems oforientation, accessibility and/or usability mayeasily occur.

Lack of proper labelling

Long and narrow corridor

. A l*k of labelling or room identification can causeimmediate problems for a new visitor to find theway.In buildings where blind visitors ban be expected,direction signs and room labels with embossed(raised) letters or braille text should be used.

Long monotonous corridors may create just as manyorientation difficulties as winding corridors where nooutdoor reference points can be recognised from win-dows.

Poor lig ting tends to increase people's orientationproblems Excessive contrast of light and shade, suchas_thro,u. h windows placed at the ends of corridorsmay. cat _e dazzle. Low levels of illumination, or win-dowless corridors, may cause Orientation and seeingdifficulties, especially for persons ,coming into thebuilding fforn bright sunlight.

Narrow passageways are an obstacle to person con-fined to Wheel-chairs and those who rely on assist-ance from a second person.

27

'ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Narrow doorway

Stairs

Narrow doorways, restricted openings, and doorshinged on the wrong side or opening the wrong waycan make accessibility impossible for persons confin-ed to wheel-chairs.

Different levels within a building are often unnecessa-ry. These changes of level make unhinderedaccessibility impossible for some categories ofdisabled persons, and are a hazard for others.

Design Requirements. Indoor communications linking the entrancearea with the various parts ,Jf a building shall beeasy to find and follow, be well dimensioned,and have a good standard of lighting. Differ-.ences In levels should be clearly marked and

4 adequately dimensioned.

Doorways shall be dimensioned to facilitate useby a wheel-chair or other moving aids.

28

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSJDERATIONS

Problem Identification The problem of moving from one floor to anothercan be acute for persons confined to wheel-chairs. Stairs, ramps, and lifts are the only con-ventional means of linking together differentfloor levels in a building.

High positioh of control panel

Steps to reach the lift

Steep staircase

Lifts are an accepted method of reaching other floorlevels than the ground or entrance floor. However,consideration must be given.to the fact that lifts be-come inoperative in the event of a fire or electricalpower-cut, when the only means of movement be-tween floors is by the staircases.

Lifts of inadequate size, or with too narrow doorwaysare no help to persons confined to wheel-chairs. Evenbadly positioned control buttons or door-handles canmake independent travel by disabled personsimpossible.

A building design which involves the use of steps infront of the lift's stopping point makes the lift imposs-ible to the by many disabled persons:Sometimee liftsare designed to stop at a landing or mezzanine floorbetween two principal floor levels. The reason for this.design principle is to halve the number of possible liftstopping points and thereby speed-up vertical com-munications in high-rise building. Such an arrang-ement does not allow use of the building by disabledpersons. For many others the design principle is un-safe and awkward.

Badly designed staircases, including those which aretoo steep or have irregular steps, are a hazard to allpeople.

Winding staircases or stairs with varying levels ofillumination may make some people feel dizzy. Thisphenomenon..would be ,extremely hazardous for thatgroup of persons which is liable to have fits.

29

NVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATION

Steps which hinder the toot

Handrail which is impossible to grip

Badly designed steps, wrongly proportioned treadsand risers, steps with projecting nosings, slopingtreads, and slippery steps are both diffi ult anddangerous for many people to use, and may beimpossible for use by disabled persons.

The absence of handrails, or badly designed orwrongly positioned handrails adds to the; problems ofuse.

Design Requirements When liftare installed, at le st one 'of theseshall be designed so as to be a, cessibie to, andusable by, a disabled person. 1

Staircases Wail be designed o as to be safe,well dimensioned, adequately Ighted and equip-ped with suitable handrails.

30

,1,30

ENVIRONMENTAL ?CONSIDERATIONS

Inadequate space

Noisy environment

Slippery floor

1.

Problem IdentificationThe problem of use of rooms Is related to roomdimpnsions, equipment and fixtures as well as toacoustics and illumination.Badly designed or badly located room featuressuch as light switches, taps, door and windowhandles or catches, supplementary controls,etc, may counteract th benefits of an otherwisegood room design. Ada result a ciart of a build-ing may become unusable for some people:

TI4 absence.of information boards, signs br la-bels may cause confusion, delay, and irritation.

Space, especially in small rooms such as wash-rooms, toilets, telephone cubicles, etc, may becrucialin determining whether facilities can be used by dis-abled persons or not.-This is particularly true wherethere is insufficient space for a wheel-chair to enterand Manoeuvre, or fot a mother with several childrento use the row.

Equipment, fixtures or furniture of inappropriate de.,sign or placing may make an otherwise good roomlayout or plan arrangement unusable.

The acouStic's of a room are also important, especiallyfor persons with hearing difficulties or using simplehearing-aids. Any irrelevant sound from outside orfrom adjacent parts of the building may make itimpossible to hear a speaker..

Poor roam acoqstics with echo effects can also makelistening to and understanding conversations unne-cessarily_difficu It.

Polished surfaces' can be extremely slippery and

-31

J1

ENVIRCAMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Unreachable switch button

Tap which is difficult to grip.

Sign which is difficult to read

r

,Illumination levels in rooms and. corridors are an im-portant ,consideration both for persons with seeingdifficulties as well as for effective work by personswith normal sight. Inadequate or poorly positionedlighting fittings can cause reflections as well as poorillumination.

Switches, bu ons, taps, handles, etc which are diffi-cult tb find ad /or reach are a common obgtacle fordisabled persons.

Poorly designed switches, taps, and handles may bestiff or difficult to operate, especially for persons whohave retarded movement,little strength and precision.In addition,.taps and other controls which are locatedin the corners of rooms or near walls, may be difficultor even impossible for some disabled persons toreach,.

Poor equipment may also limit the use of certainrooms and building areas. The absence of grab railsfor persons Who cannot stand unaided may make anotherwise adequate toilet arrangement, involving aINC or pit latrine, impossible to use.

Incomplete or unclear signs can cause more confu-sion than no sign.

For persons who cannot read, informative symbolsmay be required.

The absence.or poor design of signs, inadequate Sizeof lettering, poor positioning, or confusing colours,etc, will pose problems for all visitors. Such conditions

'will only make it.more difficult for disabled persons.

Design RequirementsIn order that rooms can be used by everybodythey should be dimensioned so that there Is suf-ficient space for a wheel-chair, a person usingcrutches, or a person relying on an assistant. Allfixtures and fittings should, be appropriately de-signed and correctly positioned. Good illumine

` tion and appropriate acoustics Should always beaimed at

Signposted information of, different kinds im-proves accessibility and usability, and assessesorientation.

33

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

v.;rINFRASTRUCTURAL FACILITIESTransport SystemsPedestrian NetworkFootpaths and RoadsStreet FurnitureSign Posts

BUILDING. ELEMEN SEntrancesDoorsRampsStaircases and StepsHandrailsLiftsWindowsSanitary & Electrical controlsSigns

Qertain Areal

.This chapter of the Guide cdntains a series of recom-me dations regarding the most commonly used andeval ated design features in respect pf dimehsionsand roposed technical solutions. If applied with care,these design recommendations can greatly assist thearchitect or planner iri creating an environment whichencourages mobility and participation of disabled per-sons in society.

.,The appropriate level of adaptation is dbtermined bythe likely use of ,the building. Public facilities shouldbe adapted to a certain basic level of accessibility bydisabled persons. Larger; hpusing developmentsshould ensure theta proportion of the dwellings, mostappropriately those at ground level, are adapted to theneeds of disabled persons.

When designing a new building, or adapting anexisting one, it should be determined whether thebuilding is to, be :used by a particular category ofdisabled persons to which special attention should begiven, such as schools for deaf children or otherspecific facilities. For each specific project it shouldalso be borne in mind that the performance and mobi-lity'of disabled persons varies. Variations also occur inthe average size of people in different parts of theworld. .Forethought and design adaptation in neW buildingscan often ensure that design recommendations fordisabled persons can be achieved without specialeftort or extra cost.

Design recommendations for disabled personsshould therefore be treated by the architect, planneror engineer in the same way as attention is alreadypaid to fire regulations, structural standards, or clima-tic adaptation.

33

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Transportation Sy StemsPublic and private transport systems are, for manydisabled persons, of 'great importance for movingaround between various parts of the environment andparticipating in society. Access to, andthe possibility,of using transport systems i§ therefore extremely im-portant.

Buses and bus-stops:Buses should 'preferably be designed to allow die;abled persons to enter them without undue difficulty.

Technically advanced solutions with low-141:busfloors'are not yet practicable. Bus-stop, waiting areasmay be built up slightly to reduce the steppingdistance into the bus. However, even"this measurerequires precise positioning by the busdriver and caninvolve a dangerously high kerb. There is also _theneed of a sloping approach to the bus stop which canbe difficult to accommodate ih confined'urban streets.

The width of at least one of the bus doorways shouldbe 1.0 m to allow access by, persons in wheel-chairsor using crutches. No central grab handlp shouldblock this entrance. All door openings should be. pro-vided with adequate grab bars on both Sides so thatdisabled persons can help or steady then:4%/eswhen entering or leaving the bus.

All buses should irlude at least one, seat close to.theentrance especial y allocated to disabled persons.This seat should be 0.40 m above floor level and haveextra space in front. Extra grab bars and/orshould be provided.

The destination of buses should' be clearly marked on)the bus in addition to any route number. This willassist persons with hearing or speaking difficultieswho cannot ask the way.

Taped announcements for next stops may also beconsidered.

TO aid blind people, or those who have severe seeingdifficulties, the bus-stop waiting area should be laidout logically and safely. Queuing positions and theend of aril waiting platform should be clearly recog-nisable with a stick. '

Route maps, time-tables, and other bus informationshould be prominently displayed as well as beingclear, concise, and.well designed (see also Signs).

/ 34

35

'DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Transportatiori systems Trains

There may be tqchnical reasbns for the almostuniversal difference-in level between train and busfloors, and platforms.

These differences Stpuld, however, be avoided asmuch as possible. This can often 'be attained in newtrain systems if attention to this problem is being paidstraight from the planning stage.

Similar criteria as applied for buses should be used fortrains. Platform levels should corresp'ond as well aspossible with the floors of carriages or entry steps.Special seats clo'se to carriage doors should be desig-nated for ,disabled persons.

At stations where public address systems are used,loudspeakers should be mounted and oriented so thatthey can be clearly heard.

Car Parking

A disabled person can achieve considerable indepen-dence by driving his or her own car. In order to obtainthe greatest benefit rom this independence it is re-quired th-at specia rking spaces for disabled per-sons are reserved as close as possible to each build- .ing entrance and other public facilities. Ideally suchparking spaces should be adjacent to the main en-trance and at the sae.sagte level so that access is notlimited by steps.

There should be a clear spate on one side of a park-ing space reserved. for persons confined to wheel-chairs or other walking aids.

Provisions should preferably be made to shelter park-ing spaces reserved for disabled persons from thesun and rain.

(

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS.kt

Pedestrian Routes

mi.%

s

A continuous pedestrian network, usable for allgroupS of people, is necessary to ensure that theurban area is accessible to everyone.

7

Master Plan/Consideration must be giVen at the initial master planstage of hf6W pedestrians are to move about and movebetween different parts of the urban area. If a conti-nuous and seperate pedestrian network system canbe created, connecting the more important destina-tIons in an urban area this provides good conditionsfor the creation of safe pedestrian routes for all peopleat the later detailed planning stage.

A comprehensive pedestrian systeritwhich is adaptedto the needs of disabled persons should be construct-ed in such a way that it connects with local footpathnetworks and public transport systems.

Only at certain strategic points should the pedestriansystem meet the road network so that disabled per-sons can enter and leave motor vehicles directly fromthe footways.

Footways and footpaths, should form a network forpedestrian movement between all major points in anurban area. Special.attention should be paid to provid-ing effective pedestrian links with bus and rail termi-nals,,as well as nodal-interchange wints such as bus-stops; car-parks, ferry terminals, ete.\

A generally accepted ambition is that the pedestriannetwork should be segregated from vehicular trafficas much as possible. Such segregation can usually beaccomplished horizontally, but at points where ped-estrian ways cross. major traffic routes considerationshould be given to the possibility of vertical segrega-tion.

Wherever possible pedestrian ways should take theshortest and most level route as it is difficult to useramps without assistance.

36

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS;sr

Pedestrian Routes Local plansIn drafting local plans and traffic schem4 it is neces-sary to carefully investigate how the pedestrian net-work system can be designed to give all people thepossibilities to reach all buildings and their entrances.

_ UnneCessary interruptions In the pedestrian networkshould be avoided, Where possible, vehicular trafficand pedestrian traffic s ould be separated from eachother horizontally or v rtically where site( conditionsand economic consid ations allow.

drafting detailed "action area" plans it is im-port nt to provide good orientation for pedestrians.This can be achieved for instance by:

footpaths leading .directly to destinations withoutunnecessary detours or(changes in level

footpaths which follow buildings, 'vegetation, etcand make it easier for people with impaired vision toorientate themselves and identify where they are.

/11(iyout plans

Within a specific site area it should be considereJ thattraffic flows are separate for pedestrians and vehiculartraffic. It should/ further be considered that personflows are effective with the regard to the functiort ofthe site facilities, eg well organized patient flows athealth care facilities.

37

/3U

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Footpaths, and Roads

1800min 1550

fho design of footpaths arid roads determines wheth-er or not it is possible for disabled persons in thefirst hand those with impaired mobility or vision tomove about freely from one place to another.

Footpaths and dimensionssTo enable t o wheel-chair users., to pass on a

footpath, an nobstructed width of 1.80 m Is required.r This width I also recommended as the minimum

width of footpaths and walkways.

To be effectively usable, footways should be almostlevel in cross-section, have a fir and even surface,he of adequate widtii, and not involve undue changesin level, .

GradientsGradients on footways should not be steeper than1:20 (approximately 3°) or a maximum of 1:12 (ap-proximately 5°) for short distances. The provision ofhandrails can be extremely helpful for disabled per-sons (se RAMPS).

Long slopes should be divided into stages by incorpo-rating level resting areas at approximately 50 m inter-vals.

--To minimiisolated stalong footpr.eferabpalternative

the rOk ,of stumbling or falling, singleps to take Lip small differences in levelsthe should be avoided. Graded ramps arestead of such steps. An complementarya ramp built next to the step.

3.8

UV ,

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS.

Footpaths and Roads

Ailisti mitgi

'' "VIP:47174---

ESTMair424:111"

111111

Mr I pa iniaMilliie4ArikiIILIMM111/1

SurfacesAll footpath surfaces should be firm; even, and slipre-sistant. If possible, different materials, colours, etcmay be used on footpaths to assist recognition andoriehtation by people with impaired vision.

su

KerbsKerb stones can be used to prevent vehicles° fromdriving up onto pavements and causing an unexpect-ed obstacle. At points where footpaths are specificallydesigned to cross heavily used roads, kerb stonesshould be avoided Jr dropped kerbs used with amaximum height of about 40 mm, which is sufficientfor blind persons to recognize the pavement. '

Obstacles ,

All unnecessary obstacles should naturally be avoid-, ed. At temporary obstacles (such as road works, etc)secure arrangements must be made to minimize therisk of 'people injuring themselves. Such arrange-ments should include warning signs, barriers, andlighting. A person with impaired vision must be able toregister the presence of the obstacle with his stick ingood time.

39

40

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONSf

Street Furniture

-7/ 9C0

21.An

8c

The term "Street furniture" embraces a wide range ofcomponents in the outdoor environment includingbus stops, benches, and sofas, post boxes, lamp-posts, signboards, telephone cubicles, public toilets,newspaper kiosks, and planting tubs.

Street furniture should generally be placed where it islikely to be required, and accessible from, but withoutintruding into the pedestrian network. Location ofstreet furniture should always allow free passage andthe safe use of site amenities.

Resting FacilitiesTo assist the aged and the disabled, resting facilitiesat central points, bua.stops, and stations are' recom-mended.

Seats of benches and chairs should be approximately450 mm above floor level to make them easy to usefor ambulant disabled persons. Benches and chairsshould have armrests at approximately 700 mm abovefloor level.

The position of rest benches should be indicated inthe footpath surface by the use of a different surfabetreatment which can be felt with the foot.

SignsSignboard should have a text with letters at least 30mm high to allow for reading at normal walking dis-tance. For further details, see SIGNS.

40

8

E

SiGN,

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Street Furniture 4,

Letter boxesLetter boxes should be mounted with the letter slotapproximately 900 mm above the floor for comfortablereach by wheel-chaired persons. However in mostcases, the height 1 200 m, will be accepted.

TelephonesTelephones for disabled persons should be placed sothat noise from surrounding areasdoes not causeundue disturbance. The minimurf depth under thetelephone counter should be 600 mm. The outer partof the counter should be designed as a handrail.

In front of the telephone counter there should be aminimum unobstructed floor area of not less than1,300 x 1,300 mm.

ToiletsPublic toilets should have a minimum dimension of1.70 x 1.70 m. Where squatting type toiletsare used,these should have wide enough doors and be equip-ped with secure fitted grab rails. A water tap, reach.able from the toilet, should always be provided.

Other itemsLampposts should be located so as not to interferewith footpaths or pedestrian walkways.

The use of Panting strips allows street furniture to belocated outside the limits of the pedestrian footpathsystem.

Pedestrian gates and turnsiles should meet the re-quirements as specified in ENTRANCES.

SIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

EntrancesMain entrances should be dearly recognizable, easyto open and simple to pass through. An inappropriateentrance of wrong dimensions' may exclude manypeople, or make it difficult for others to enter thebuilding 'without assistance.

Differences between external ground and internalfloor levels should be avoided as far as possible.

Where different levels are necessary, the entrance (orin buildings with many entrances at least one en:,'trance) should be designed with a ramp complete withhandrails along both sides. This will ehsure good ac-cessibility fdr people with impaired mobility. StepS.should be provided in addition to a ramp. Door thres-.holds higher than 20 mm should be avoided. Thres-holds sho Id be in a contrasting colour to the floor.

A recomm nded design of an entrance area is shown'in the adja ent sketch.

500

maximum grodic.rit

Foroccasional or temporary use, a portable ramp.witha more simple design may be used.

42 1

ESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Entrance1

t

,r./7.0717

111MI linM-

/z//4.miliamursimisniz,Mmarlk

JilA1000-

EDO

v

Entrance doors should have a structural opening of1.00 m. Entrance doors which are not constantly openduring visiting hours should preferably be glazed, butnot lower than 0.30 m above floor level. A pull handleis recommended.

To facilitate identification ,of entrances for' people wit)impaired vision, the door or door frame shouldpainted in a contrasting colour to the adjoining wall.

Canopies, porches, or other arrangements can makeit easier to identify the entrance from the rest of thebuilding.

43

N RECOMMENDATI9KISThe (*Sign of doors arid the space associated withthem deterinines whether a roorn,is accessible towheel - cha'i'r. users and others with impaired move-

. ment.

7E0

,960

Wheel-chair manoeuvring spaceIn order for whee(-chair users to approach doors,adequate manoeuvring space is needed. If the door isunduly heavy/(e g an entrance or self-closing door)there must be sufficient space for the entire wheel-chair to park beside the door. In restricted spacessliding doOrs may be preferable if these are pot tooheavy. ,/

/

hol

D or widtho enable wheel-qhair users to pass through a

doorway, the minimum width should be 760 rnm, i ea 9M door. M is the /modular unit of 100 mm.

Doors placed in dr close to the corner of a roomshould be hung with the hinges nearest the corner.

Door detailsTo facilitate he use of wheel-chairs, thresholdsshould be omi ted wherever possible, or have a maxi-mum height of, 24nnm. In some situations a pneumaticrubber threshold :lay be an alternative to ordinarythresholds. -

44

Doors Door handles and locks should be easy to nian1;411ate.To facilitate the closing of doors by people confined towheel-chairs (for example in a WC compartment), thedoor handle should be mounted aplproximately 800-900 mm above floor level to permit easy manoeuvringfrom both sitting and standing positions. A door fittedwith spring closer's should be equipped with an easilygripped vertically-mounted pull handle with a length ofat least 300 mm, and with the lower end approximate-ly 800 mm above floor level. For many people, andespecially, those with seeing and/or moving difficul-

' ties,.it is helpful to make clear whether doors are to" bepulled or pushed.

Locks on entrance doors should be mounted nothigher than 1.0 m above floor level.

Entrance doors to public buildings should preferablybe equipped with pull handles.

Door identificationTo facilitate identification of doors for people with im-paired vision, the door or door frame should. be in acontrasting colour to the adjoining wall. Glass or glaz-ed doors should be marked a little below normal eye-level with a coloured band or line.. .

However, unless specially marked and . protected,glazed doors and wall-panels should be avoided in'buildings frequented by persons with sight impair-ment.

Doors fitted with automatic closers should take ac-count pf the limited strength and other problems ex-perienced by persons relying on some form of mech-anical aid.

.2.

SIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Ramps

00

In 'order to meet Vie basic needs of accessibility forthe disabled, rants will oftpn be required to take upchanges in level.

Persons with difficulties in moving, butwho have theopportunity to use wheel-chairs, and persons pushinga trolley or a pram; are dependent on an uninterruptedaccess. In certain circumstances ambulant disabledpeople may prefer to use a ramp instead of steps.

Applications .External ramps are usually required iri order to reachthe entrances to public buildings such as local admini-strative.Zentres, health centres, schools, and offices.

Ramps are also frequently used for linking togetherdifferent building. units, following covered ways oropen concrete paths.

Internal ramps may be required to take up minorchanges in level. To take up larger differandes inlevel such as between two floors, lifts are usually theonly alternative.

Ramps connecting different floors of a building willoccupy consi'derable space.

Steps or stairs should in addition to ramps, also beproyided to reach elevated entrance floors (see EN-TRANCE).

4b'

101000-11

IGN RECOMMENDATION5.

Ramps

Recommended ramp gradients:

7

length of ramp

0-3 m 3-6 m more than 6 m

ambulant "sabled people "elv 1:9 1:12 1:12independent wheel-chair users 1:10 1:16 1:20wheel-chaiis pushed by attendants 1:9 1:12 1:20

Ramp gradientFor generil purposes a ramp gradient of 1:2Q is pre-fecred. The maximum gradient should not exceed1:12, but fOr praical purposes a steeper gradient of1:8, or even 1:6*an be accepted as a better solutionthan no rampat all.

Ramp length-.

The length of ramps shbuld not exceed 6 m if thegradient is 1:12. When longer ramps are required,they should be separated by landings .with a minimumlength of 1.5 m.

A level area df not less than 1.8 m should always beprovided at the top and bottom of any ramp.

Ramp design

To minimize accident risks to wheel-chair users,ramps should be equipped' with kerbs (approximately50 mm high) on exposed edges.

For ambulant disabled people, ramps should be provi-ded with handrails on both sides (see HANDRAILS),and floor surfaces should be firm, even, and slip-resistant.

max 6000 Max ECCO

4

min

RECOMMENDATIONS.

Staircases and Steps In many buildings stairways are the only means ofmoving between floors. A badly designed stairwaycan impair the possibiati6s for many persons to reachfloors other than the entrance floor. It is thereforeimportant tklat stairways are designed in a manner thatallows their use by disabled people.

Stairways'ean be divided into thr different types:

stairways in institutional.buildngscommon stairways serving t o or.more dwellings,stairways within dwellinbs.stairways outdoors

Different requirements apply'to each type of stairway(see adjacent table).

Recommended stairway,dimensions

, widthpi stair-way in metres

size of threads andrisers In metres

stairways in institutionalbuildings

common stairwaysserving two or moredwellings

stairways withindwellings

1.20

0.80

stairways olldoors 1.30

th = 0.30r = 0.15

th = min 0.25r = max 0.18

th = min 0.22r = max 0.22

th = min 0.30r = max 0.15

The maximum. number of risers per flight of stepsshould be limited to 1 . Where longer staircases areneeded, a landing should be used. The landing shouldhave the same width as the adjoining stairway.

48

N RECOMMENDATIONS

Staircases and teps

:e

Projecting step nosings and open stairs should beavoided in °order to minimize the risk of stumbling.Open stairs are also hazardous for elderly people andothers prone to dizziness.

Tread surfaces should be-of a non-slip material, andets should be securely fixed. .

The, reco ended dimensions for a common stair-way in a blo of flats are shown in the adjacentsketch.

Small chang s in level should be avoided., Where theyare unavoidable graded ramps are preferable to steps.

Handrails should always be provided on both sideso \any stairway. To facilitate use by disabled persons,the rail should be continuous and extendibt less than300 mm beyond the top and bottom Ste. lt should beavoided that handrails protrude 4nto a free arrtp.. (Fordetailed informatipn on the designing of the handrail`see HANDRAILS,7

To assist people with impaired vision, there should bea contrast in colour between landings and the top andbottom steps of a stairdase.,In addition, the front edgeof each step should be in a contrasting colour.

4 9

rVINIENDAWN.,S

Ilandrai

dr.

To assist people with impaired mobility, grab railsshould be fitted whenever they are likely to assistdisabled persons, for example alongside baths andWCs.

Grab rails are ado essential at the entrances to busesor trains:

For Some disabled persorS, climbing a narrow stair-way (say 0.7 m) will'be possible if handrails are secu-rely fitted on both sides of the stair.

.10

Handrails sftould always, be securely fitted to. the alland the ends of handrails, shduld turn in towards ewall at both ends and not protrude in the free pac

_s.

4.

O

ON RECOMMENDATIONS

Handrails40:

t.

A handrail should be easy to grip, and prefer bly havea circular section with a diameter of approxi ately 40mm.

A number- of alternative cross-sections are al o,suit-able

To aid identification, handrails should be painted. in 'acontrasting colour to the wall behind.

Horizontal handrails in circulation areas or on rampsshould be mounted ,approximately 900 mm abovefloor level to facilitate use by ambulant persons. To..facilitate use by people confined to wheel-chairs, amounting..height of 700 mm above floor level is suit-..able.

Grab railsmounted around the walls in toilet facilitieswith squatting type closets are a help to disabledpersons. °

51

1G N .RECOMMENDATIONS

`s, windows z

Windows are primarily incorporated into a building forventilation purposes and to let daylight into individualrooms. The placing and design of windows will deter-mine how satisfactory daylighting conditions will be ineach room. This effects the possibility by persons withimpaired vision to orientate themselves, and to iden-tify persons and filings in a room. The locatiOn andrelative height of windows is also important so thatwheel-chair users can look out of and open windows.

Window furniture should be chosen with partialarregard to the problems ar tmciated with opening andclosing.

Placing of windowsWindows should be placed so as to avoid glare whichcan be a problem for people with impaired vision.

Large windows should be avoided at the ends ofcorridors. Excessive contrast in lighting should af§6-be avoided if pale wall coliours are used beside thewindow or supplementary ai ificial lighting is employ-ed.

Large glazed areas adjacent to irculation spaces maybe marked with a coloured ban or line a little belownormaleye level.

It is recommended that each window unit should havea maximum width of 0.6 m and be sidehung for easyopening.,

52

ESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Windows

Window positioning heightTo enable persons confined to wheel-chairs to lookout 'through windows, the sill should not be higherthan 800 mm above floor level.

- .Handles (Controls)Windows should be easy to open\and close. To facili-tate this controls should be located in a zone be-ween 900 mm and 1,200 mm abOve flbor level.

To minimize the risk for allergie from skin ntactwith Chrome and nickel these m rials ould beavoided in the window controls.

ShuttersShutters Should be designed so that they can alwaysbe fastened.'securely and flush with the wall,-irrespec-tiveof whether they are in the open or closed position. .

534

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Lifts

1100

dearJ 900 :passage

. passenger lift

Lifts are often the only possible Way for many peopleto reach by themselves the various floors in a buildingother than the entrance floor. In buildings accommo-dating public facilities on the upper floors, lifts areessential to give disabled persons access. -Access isnecessary in order that disabled persons can be em-ployed.

Location of lifts'The ,lift or lifts' should be located near the main en-trance of a building and be c:early markeo. The liftshould ascend to each floor at a central point fromwhere it is possible to easily orientate oneself. Itshould be possible to reach the lift at every floorwithout having to go up or down steps.

Lift-car areaA lift-car should have sufficient space to allow accessand operation by persons confined to wheel-chairs. Alift of the dimensions shown in the adjacent diagramfulfilt these requirements. However; the minimumwidth of 800 mm for liftdoors may be accepted inaccordance with ISO specifications, although a widthof 900 mm is preferred.

For dimensions regarding the unobstructed area infront of manually operated lift doors and for the properdesign of lift doors, see DOORS. For lifts with auto-matic doors, the unobstructed space may be reduced.

In high-rise or commercial buildings a larger goods liftmay be installed. This lift may provide an,.alternative ora complement to the smaller passenger lift(s).

Signs and ControlsSigns and lift controls should be placed so that theyare easy to reach and use (see SIGNS). They shouldbe placed at a level which is also reachable both byshort people and persons confined to wheel-chairs.

These lift dimensions and criteria are also appropriate°for bed and stretcher transport in hospitals.

54

55

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Lifts Control panels should be mounted centrally in thelift-cars minimum 25 mm from adjoining wall.

Lift-cars with automatic sliding doors should be equip-ped with a floor indicator over doorway.

Lift-cars with a simple hinged door should indicate thefloor on the inside of the door in raised letteringmounted 1.40-1.60 m above the floor.

The destination button for the principal pedestrianlevel should be of a different colour and shape (forexample black on light colours, or protruding an extra5 mm).

55

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIbNS

Sanitary and ElectricalControls

The location and design Pf all switches and controls isespecially important for people with impaired mobility

-and/or vision. Control buttons in lifts, bell pushes,telephones, door handles, window catches, washba-sin taps, light switches, and similar controls shall beso designed and located that they can be used by anyperson. Water taps should be easy to open and close.They should also be located in a way that make themeasy to reach and operate.

Switches, ControlsSwitches, wall sockets and supplementary controlsshould be positioned so that they are reachable bynon-handicapped people irrespective of their height,as well as by disabled persons. To achieve this, cOn-trols should be mounted within the recommendedheight limits, 0.9-1.2 m above floor level. At doors,switches should preferably be at the same height asthe door handle and on the adjacent wall to thehandle. t.

Switches and controls should be large. Controls cansometimes be complemented with embossed sym-bols to assist people with impaired vision. This met-hod is recommended for buttons in lifts.

In. certain circumstances and at certain special loca-tions, instructions in braille should be considered as ahelpful addition.

56

57

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Sanitary and ElectricalControls

mind 41ct thatir pipc

Water Closets

Low-level type toilets and,pit latrines should be com-plemented with vertical grabrails placed at the sideand slightly ahead of ttre toilet.

or

To facilitate use by disabled persons, WCs shouldpreferably have a seat at 0.5 m above floor level, andgrab-rails fixed adjacent to the WC at 0.7 m abovefloor level. Swing-up supports are often considered tobe a practical solution.

Wash-basins

Wash-basins should be located at a height of 800.850 mm above the floor. Where special considerationis to be given to the disabled, the basin may be drawnforward 150-200 mm. Walls and the fixing of wash-basins and supports must be strong enough to copewith the considerable pressure. The foul water outletshould be set back Into or through the wall. wherepossible.

There should be a clear space of not less than 35 mmbetween the tap grip on the wash-basin and any adja-cent vertical surface. If two taps are installed, the clearwidth between them should preferably be at least 200mm.

Where two taps are used, the left one should beconnected to the hot water supply.

Taps should be easy to grip. Screw-down taps with abroad domed head are suitable.

As an alternative, taps where a single lever actioncontrols both temperature and flow of water, may berecommended for certain groups of disabled persons.

57

DESIGN RECQMMENDATIONS.

Signs Properly located signs of good design is of greatimportance for people to find their way both in theoutdoor environment and in buildings. The design andlocation are especially important for people with im-paired vision and hearing but also for children.

Signs, symbols, and informative texts must be pre-, sented in a manner which renders them easy to read

and triderstand. In buildings likely to be visited bypersons with seeing difficulties, complementary textsin braille may be used.

LocationOutdoor signposts should generally. be placed so thatthe lower' edge of the information symbol is a mini-mum of 2.1 m above the ground.

Signposts on pedestrian footpaths should be fixed at1.40-1.60 m above the ground and close to the path.

Indoor location signs and at doorways should be plac-ed on the wall on the same side of the door as thedoor handle. The height above floor level should be1.40-1.60 m.

Signs suspended from ceilings in dorridors, etcshould allow for clearance of at least 2.1 m.

Signs should always be located in a way that will notcause injury. If they intrude on circulation areas, theclearance above the floor should be at least 2.10 m.

A signboard at the entrance to a building complex withan orientation map of the building is a helpful guide forall visitors) Such orientation .maps though, must beclear and easy to understand. It is also helpful if theposition of the signboard is marked On the map, andthe map repeated at various points around the build-

ing.

Lettering on signs and instruction boards shall beclearly legible and embossed or in braille to ,allowreading by persons with seeing difficulties.

The shape of a signboard should also respect theinformation it is designed to convey.

58

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONSA rectangular signboard should give "information".A triangular signboard should indicate a "warning".A circular signboard should indicate a "prohibition".

The text on signboards should be of such dimensionsthat people with a visual acuity of more than 6/60which is normal sight should be able to read it at theintended distanc.

The size of capital letters as a relation of the readingdistance is shown in the adjacent diagram.

The vertical components of letters should have athickness which is 1/5 of the height of the letter.

Door name-plates should be fixed to the wall on theopening side of the door. Text and symbols may bemixed within the same sign or sign layout.

Informative text and symbols should contrast with thebackground. Special colours should be used for diffe-rent purposes.

"Green" on a signboard should indicate'"clear"."Red" should indicate "not clear":"Yellow" should indicate a "risk".

yellow red green,

risk etriergency safety

warning flamable material emergency exit. projecting objects emergency stop first aid

mobile part of stop-sign 1

a machine

Letters and symbols should preferably be raised fromthe background (at least 1 mm) in order to enableblind presons to "read? the information using the tipsof their fingers. Engraved letters are simplier to pro-duce and are. also accepted. The size of, the lettersshould be at least 15 mm to enable tactile reading.

Pi6tog ram's

The adjacent pictograms ire internationally known.

59

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Certain Areas Spatial requirements for rooms, waiting areas andpassageways should be based on human dimen-sions, space utilization, furniture, equipment, and theexpected type of occupancy. Dimensional criteria forsome functional areas are given below.

The size of rooms as well as the layout of furnitureshould pay special heed to the needs of disabledpersons. Consideration should be given to circulationspace between pieces of furniture. However wellrooms are planned and designed to take account ofaccessibility by disabled persons, the functional effi-ciency of rooms is dependent upon the design, size,and layout of the interior furnishings and fittings.

PassagewaysInternal passageways should have a minimum clearWidth of 1.50 m. Doors, information signs, cupboard,benches, etc should not encroach on this minimumclearance. Passing places with a minimum width of1.95 m should be provided at least every ten metreswhere frequent pedestrian floVv can be expected. Atsupermarket checkouts, gates to public transport faci-.lities, etc, there should beat least one viith a width ofminimum 0.85 m.

Internal corliddr widths should not be less than 1.50m. The minimum clear width which /allows a walkingperscin to meet and pass a person in a wheel-chair is1.20 m. However, provision must also be made toallow for the movement of stretchers or furniturethrough doorways out into the corridor.

The common arrangement in the tropics with veran-dahs along the outside of buildings, which are usedfor both communications and for waiting and sitting,must be taken account of. This is especially the caseat many health centres in developing regions wherepatients and visitors are waiting in corridors and onverandah communication areas. To ensure smoothpedestrian flows in such areas, the width sholild notbe less than 1.80 m.

If corridor lengths must be excessive, resting andpassing areas should be incorporated at regular inter-vals of about 30 m along these corridors and path-ways, where possible seating should be provided.

60

61

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Certain Areas LavatoriesThe space requirements for toilets for disabled per-sons in developing areas should not necessarily bebased on the same functional space requirements asfor persons confined to wheel-chairs. However,where adequate space for a wheel-chair is provided,there is also likely to be sufficient space for disabledpersons using crutches or-othe,r technical supports, orfor people assisted by a second person. This extraspace will also be well suited for mothers with child-ren, who constitute a large proportion of the visitors tomany public buildings.

The minimum size of a toilet room for use by disabledpersons using an ordinary wheel-chair is 1.70 x 1.70.m with the possible arrangement of sanitary equip-Ment as shown Iry the adjacent sketch. The wash-basin may be located outside the toilet area. It is anadvantage, however, if a 'disabled person can washhis or her hands while seated.

Equipment, such as supporting rails, toilet paper hol-ders, etc should be firmly fixed and reachable from aseated position.

The same dimensions are valid for the more'commonlow-level type of toilet and for simple- washing ar-rangements. However, it should be remembered thatphysically disabled persons cannotesquat. The lowtype of toilet may therefore not e suitable for usewhere disabled persons are likely t. visit.

With regard to these criteria the sui ability of the com-mon pit latrine for diSabled person, may be question-ed. However, there is often no rnative. Conse-quently firm fixed grab rails, s y placed, will defi-nitely improve the - utilization o pe of facility.

61

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS

Certain Areas

2(001 1000 1100

BathroomsThe same criteria as for toilets should be applicablefor bathrooms. Generally, a shower is easier to usethan a bath for a person with moving difficulties. It iseven possible for a disabled person to take a showerseated on a stool. A space of 0.90 m square isrequired if the shower is situated beside the WC or a-washbasin. If bounded by a wall, bath or other object,the Shower space should be increased o 1.00 m

,I Isquare.

4.9

;1 I The position of taps should be carefully considered.These should be placed so that they can be reachedfrom outside the shower.

62

DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS.

Certain Areas

6.

KitchenExemples ofd fitting arrangements for western typekitchens which are adaptable to wheel-chair users areshown.

Space .unde-r worktops should be unobstructed. Thedimensions of worktops should be 0.80 x 0.60 m witha height of 0.75-0.85 m above floor level dependingon the type of wheel-chair in use. A wheel-chairrequires a clear space at least 0.75 m wide at a diningtable, and at least 0.50 mdeep ugber it.

The cooking facilities in a traditional house especiallyin rural areas is usually limited to a simple stove oropen fireplace on the floor. Protective arrangementsaround the fire should be consid ed in order to avoidburns. Facilities for the escapWf pmok e should bearranged in order to avoid respiratory and eye prob-lems.

from Rural Housing in Chilalo, Ethiopia by Elisabet anson, CaduPu blication .1973

'

STATUTORY CONSIDERATIONSStatutory considerations concern the intentions andthe means of control and implementation of a Govern-ment's policy towards the disabled persons.

In most countries, it is the planning law and its sup-porting legislation which determines how new build-ing and reconstructign works are to be carried out.The Government and the Legislature, by way of Actsof Parliament, thereby decide the level of control thatshall be applied, and the pace at which. change? shalltake place. In this respect there has been advance todifferent points in different parts of the world.

The details of Governmettal policies can be present-ed in a number of ways. Tc many the use of StatutoryInstruments will be familiar, while to others, Bye-laws,Regulations, Norms and Standards will perform thefunction.

In the case of the disabled persons, a wide range ofsuch details have been published by most Industria-lized countries. In the United States these are fre-quently specified in publications by the AmericanStandards Association. In Britain, details are drafted infor ample the Building Regulations or in one of themy British Standards or Codes of Practice.

British Standards and Codes of Practice, for example,4are an internationally known and respected source ofcodes of practice, preferred sizes, dimensions, safetyspecifications, etc. Consequently, there is consider-able cross - reference and agreement on many corre-sponding international standards on many subjects.

In Sweden, details are defined in two publicationsThe Swedish Building Code (SBN) and the Intertional Standards Committee's reference volumes(S IS).

A list of applicable international regulations and normsis included in Appendix 3, Standards Bibliography.

As a complement to the pe of mandatory means ofcontrol set out above, t ere are also non-mandatoryrecommendations.

RecOmmendation's may be issued by official organisa-tions, or public or private agencies, but their applica-tion and status will vary depending upon the standingof the issuing agency.

This Guide is one example of recommendations foradaptinn of the built environment to the needs ofdisabled persons.

The application of .these guidelines may be expectedto form the basis for determining the approval ofgrants, loans, and other funds offered to developingcountries for projects sponsored by the UN and SIDA.It is to be hoped that other donor organisations will

`' follow suit.

It is also to be hoped that many Governments indeveloping countries will adopt appropriate recom-mendations for the disabled-persons.

64

85

STATUTORY CONSIDERATIONS

;\

Such actions would be ih linie with the UN Commis-sion on Human Settlement Meeting in Manila whichurged Governments to gives consid6ration tothe legitimate needs of the 'disabled persons in theirhuman settlement programMes and policies. The fulltext of Resolution 4/8 is included in Apptndix

As an example of one industrialized country's methodof account* for the disabled, the Swedish legislationcan be referred to. The Swedish Building 'Regulationscontain a special paragraph (§ 42a) which enumeratesthe terms governing the adaptation of fhe built envi-onment to the requirements of the disabled persons.

e main part of the paragraph is formulated as fol-' I s.

"Dwellings intended for purposes other than leisure-time activities and parts of buildings open to the gen-eral public, or which are used as a place of work, shallbe designed so that they are accessible to and can beutilized by people who are disabled or whose ability toorient themselves is defective as a result of age,handicap or medical reason."

As a result of this paragraph, the avoidance of unne-cessary steps and the provision of doorways wideenough to facilitate a wheel-chair can be recognized.Both these changes are simple and effective mea-sures which cost very little, yet immediately makeparts of the built environment more useful for evey-body.

Several countries have followed SWeden's exampleoby choosing a form of legislation which ensures thepossibilities for participation by disabled persons.Other countries have chosen, instead, to issue man-datory standards which ensure conditions for a moreaccessible society. A comparison of detailed recom-mendations for the physical .environment is given int e Appendix 1 to this Guide.

Co iderable differences exist in respec \of thephysical conditions pertaining in various cNintries.Consequently, building regulations and standardsshould be carefully adapted to suit the prevailing con-ditions, requirements, financial resources, and cultu-ral habits of the countryA question.

In the prevention of disability, legislation can play anextremely valuable role in ensuring conditions athome, at work, or on the road which helps reduceaccidents and thus the incidence of disablement.However, to be effective, legislation requires an effi-cient monitoring and enforcement system.

65

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

X

4

The financial consequences of disablement can beconsidered in two parts firstly the financial situationof the disabled person, and secondly the costs to

society of a person's disability.

Disability will involve serious financial consequencesfor an individual and his or her family. The financialconsequences for society of the disability problem arealso considerable, and a cost-benefit analfSis of theproblem may be appropriate. However, suA a studywill never be able to take full account of the disabled

person's losses.

The large number of disabled persons which are pre-vented from performing productive,work or other acti-vities must be taken into account. However, the wast-age of human resources caused by disablement isimpossible to estimate in financial terms.

Calculations of the costs and benefits of various formsof intervention often assume, unfortunately, that doingnothing incurs no cost. The fallacy, however, does nottake account of lost productivity, wasted potential, or."spin-off" problems generated by a disabled populr"tion. Estimates are possible of the total costs of treat-ment and rehabilitation and the adaptation of the builtenvironment for the disabled.

Measures to avoid handicap can be take in a varietyof ways, which can be grouped into six ma stages.

preventionearly detectiontreatmenttrainingrehabilitationadaptation of the environment

Prevention. Preventive measures may encompassprimary health-care programmes, training and educa-tion, laws, and statutory controls, as well as the properdesign of the built environment. and the provision ofeffectite infrastrucli,re

Design, construction, and maintenance of all ele-ments in the built environment are important factors in

the context of disability prevention.

Buildings and infrastructural services should be con-structed to adequate tolerances. It is essential, forexample, that the buildings we live in and work in areas safe as possible, The level of safety, however, hasto be adapted to a country's economic as well as itstechnical ability. The design and maintenance ofwater-supply and sewerage system is of particularimportance for the avoidance of diseases, especiallyin tropical countries.

Eiriy Detection of a disease or condition which maylead' to disability if not treated in time may be con-sidered a secundary fcrm of prevention of disability.

Treatment is the third but equally important stue inthe fight against disablement. Treatment is necesary

87

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

to preveht impairments becoming disablements, anddisablements from becoming handicaps. TreatmentIncludes medical care.

in.Training may be considered a form of treatment or.rehabilitation. Training can help the disabled person toreduce the disability and overcome the handicap.

Rehabilitation..To have to resort to this fifth stagemay be seen as a failure a failure to prevent, detect,and a failure to treat a situation which has lead todisablement. Rehabilitation after an accident or anoperation, however, is of course not a failure in thatsense.

Rehabilitation is the aspect of disablement which ismost readily associated with the need of training andthe provision of technical aids.

Mares countries have earlier considered it appropriateto institutionalise persons with disabilities. The policyis now being reversed and efforts are being made tointegrate disabled persons into society. Adaptation ofthe built environment to the needs of the disabled isone important lead in this programme.

Getting disabled people mobile is probably the mea-sure which gives the disablbd person greatest benefit.The provision of suitably converted vehicles and tech-nical supports for disabled people to get about in andon is therefore an important aspect of rehabilitation.There are many .excellent examples of simple aidsand appliances which can be made at low cost andwithout special skills or equipment.

Adaptation. The sixth and complementary stage isadaptr,tion of the built environment to the needs of thedisabled.

Complete adaptation may not be realistic. Various de-grees of adaptation must be recognised.

Primarily, all new buildings shGuld conform to certainminimum standards, basic adaptation.

Adaptation is one important measure to prevention.Thereby all measures in the fight against handicap arelinked with eachother and the adjacent circle isclosed.

Adaptation of the built environment to the needs ofthe disabled persons will ensure that the environmentis convenient for everybody. Making the environmentmore accessible means that the environment be-comes safer and adapted to the needs of all, which inturn can be considered as a preventive measure. Asafer environment is likely to lead to fewer accidentsand consequently a reduced incidence of disable-ment.

This Guide has already stated that many improve-ments can be made at little or no extra cost-providedthey are undertaken in the early design stage. Adapta-tion and prevention are cheaper measures than treat-ment and rehabilitation.

FINANCIA

4

CONSIDERATIONS

'planning and designing with carefor the disabled is less expensivethan rebuilding far adaptation b)the demands of the aged and

o disabled

Illustrations page 66-613by Ms Pia Erikson

In developing countrio,s,with lirnitetechnlcal and fi-nancial 'resources, the degroo of adaptation of thebuilt environment for disabled persons must be keptat a realistic level. This level may vary and while It canbe restricted today, the future may offer greateropportunities, It is-therefore important that restrictedmeasures taken today do not make further Improve-ments impossible in the future.

Alterations to existing structures to facilitate use bydisabled persons have shown to be extremelyexpensive: Yet ti-,ese costs could have been saved ifthe needs of the disabled persons had been takenaccount of at the planning and design stages.

Many environmental features which are of particularimportance for the disabled are in fact not very elabo-rate. Many involve little or no extra cost if consideredand undertaken from the beginning.

The United Nations' Cemrpission of Human Settle-ments' meeting in Manila not only recognized thelegitimate right of the disabled to full participation inthe devel njfient of the societies in which they live,but affi fred that it is technically and economicallyfeasi4 to design and adjust, human settlements tomeet the needs of disabled persons. A copy of the fulltext of Resolution 4/8 is included in Appendix 5.

The report of the UN Expert Group Report on Barrier-Free Design in 1975, concluded that:

The extra cost of barrier-free design in public build-ings and facilities is a mere fraction of the overall cost.if the comparison of costs between barrier-free de-sign resulting from independence and employment ofthe handicapped and the cost of segregating'this sec-tion of society, forcing thw to be dependent on.the,community, were made known, politicians as well as\planners would opt for complete integration by meansof barrier-free design."

66)

PENDICES69

A

1 Comparative scheme, Norms2 Annotated bibliography3 Standards, bibliography4 Summary of the most important measures to prevent disability5 UN resolutions6 Other resolutions7 IYDP 1981, Objectives of the year8 Functional requirements in the physical environment, scheme9 Abbreviations

69

Comparative scheme, Norms

COMPARISON BETWEEN RECOMMENDED MEASUREMENTS AND DIMENSIONS FOR SOM CTED ITEMS.

AUSTRALIA BELGIUM CANADA DENMARK FINLAND

-

NORM, RECOMMENDATION ETC

(for detailed Information,see appendix 3)

Australian Stan-dard, Code of Prac-,:.lice for Design,rules for access bythe disabled

AS 1428-1977

Recommendationde 1966 et 1969Projets de loi dumai 1972

RecommendatiOnsdu 19 juin 1973Reglement com-munal du 21 juin1973Avis relatif auxmeasures aprendre 27'juinl 973Extrait de l'Ar roteRoyal du 27 juillet1973 .

National BuildingCode of Canada,Supplement no 5.Building Standardsfor the Handl-capped, 1970

Circular no 49,23.3.1972 ,

Mandatory normsfor all new statebuildings andgrant-aided build-kip, residentialproperties ex-eludedBuilding regula-tions for towns andcounttlide

RT kortit: v 69-70Eliminating theobstacles of thedisabledRT 096.0,RT 196.1,RT 096.2,RT 096.80;RT PRO 98Internal Regula-lion concerningplanning with re-gard to the physi-catty handicapped

.

WALKWAY, width .

CORRIDOR, width

DOORS, free width

INCLINATION OF RAMPS

LANDING (ramp, stairs)

,

HANDRAILS, height above floor

... ,

LENGTH OF LANDINGS at top andbottom of-ramps and stairs

.

STEPS, d,mensions, risersand runs

SWITCHES, HANDLES AND CONTROLSheight above floor .

OR-CAR, sizewidth x depth

LIFTCAR, doorwidth

HAND WASH BASIN, height -

WCIROOM, measurements 0

width x depth

'TELEPHONE, height above floor

1.20

0.76

1:12

1.20 x 1.50 (2.00)

85-0,0.85 -0.900 0.40 -0.060

0.600.30

0.15 -0.1650.26-0.30

x 1.80

0.80

0.80

1.80 x 1.0

2.00

0.83

1:20

1.30

,

1.10-1.20 x1.30-2.30

0.80

0.80

1.35 x 1.80

1.65

1.10

0.80 x 0.90

1:8, 1:12, 1:20

length 1,1.5width .= ramp)

0.71, 0,90-1.10

0.430.43

0.100-0.2000.300

1.06-1.15

min 1.10-1.20

0.775

0.86

1.47 x 1.65

p, ill 3 2

1.30

1.30 (1.40)

0.83

1:12

0.180.25

0.90 -1.20

...

-2.20 x 1.80

--4-.4%.,,i

1.30, 1.50

1.30

0.80-0.90

1:12 (1:14)

1.20, 1.30, 00

1

0.900 0.03-0.05

0.300.30

0.160.30

0.90-1.20

1:10 x 1.40

0.85

1.40 x 2.10

0.90-1.10-

'There are a number of problems in making comparisons between the:detailed regulations prevailing in different countries and which pertainto the built environment, This is partly due to the different units ofmeasurement employed, for example the dicimal and the imperialsystems, and partly the result of different judgements made by eachcountry, often wich respect to circumstances prevailing in the builtenvironment. It is also a fact that people vary in size in various parts of

the world. Difficulties quite naturally also occur in the editorial and _

physical possibilities of accommodating as much important inforniationas possible within a limited space.

The aim with this Scheme of comparisons is primarily an attempt todefine basic determinant information such as the basic module whichcould provide a standard unit of mekurement or the basic modulewhich could provide for basic adaptatiorbn the built environment.

71

FRANCE GREAT BRITAIN THE NETHERLANDS NEW ZEALAND SWEDEN SWITZERLAND USA

NF P 91.201, Con- British Standard Central building New Zealand Stan- Byggnadsstadgan, Nonnb latt SNV Public law 90-480'struction handi-capes physiques,juillet 1978 ( l'As-sociation Frangaise

Code of Practice,CP 96: Part 1, 1967Access for the dis-abted to buildings

regulationsGeboden Toegang,Ned, Ver voor Re-validatie, 1973, re-

derd NZS 4121Code of Practicefor Access byHandicapped Per-

the Swedish Build-ing Ordinance theSwedistkBuildingCode § 42 a.

521'500Wohnlingen furGehbahinderte,Sep 1967

Aug 12, 1968A NSI A117, 1-1-50American NationalStandard

de Normalisation ) Part 1: General re- vised 1979c sans SBN, handikappan- Richtlinien Ober Recommendationcommendations Part 1: Public passning Commen- bauliche Vorkeh- from the Interne-

Buildings and Fa-cilities, 1971

Caries to the Code ren fur Flehinder-te, Nov 1970

tional Conferenceof Building Offi-

. -.

Revidierte, neue cials. Norm SNV 521 500 Ordinance no

- Bauliche Massnah-men fur Gebehin-dale, 1974

5475-73

1.50 1.22 1.30 1.22

1.20 1.22 1.22 1.30 1.20 min 1.05

0.80 (0.785)0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80-0.90 0.81

1:20 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12 1:12

4

1,60 x 1:40 1.22 x 1.22 1.50 x 1.50 1.50 1.30 1.20 x 1.20 1.52

0.91_ 0 0.051 0.90 0.91 0.90 0.80-0.850.0.045=0.051

max 0 - 0.04 0 = 0.9.5 0 = 0.04

0.30 0.45 0.45 0.30 0.300.30 0.45 0.45 0.30 0.30-0.28

0.16 0.15 0.14 0.16 0.18038 0.28 4,011t 0.32 0.25 0.27 runs 0.28'

(1.07 max)1.10-1.20 (lifter 0.90-1.20 1.14 max 0.90-1.20 1.0 1.20

0.91-1.3 l)

1.10 x 1.40 1.345-1.75 x1.09-1.12 1.10 x 1.40 1.10 x 1.40 1.10 x 1.40 1.73 x 1.37

al,̀4"

0.80 ,.

....:.:,

, 0.80 0.80 min 0.91

0.80-0.85 0.81 0.85 0.85

1.37-1.52 x 1.55 x 2.25 1.55 x 2.25 1A0-1.60 x1.35 x 1.78 1.67-175 1.90 x 1.90 1.37 x 1.83 1.90 x 1.90 1.40-2.20 1.65 x 2.002.25 x 2.25 2.25 x 2.25

.

0.91 1.14 max 0.90 0.80-0.90 0.85 minP4 -4 .1.37 max

2 Annotated bibliography

SelwynGoldsmith

DesigningforthedisabledThird editionfully revised

Goldsmith, SelwynDESIGNING FOR THE DISABLED

1976, 525 p Third editionLondon, RIBA Publication Limited

Abstract:A catalogue of design recommendations for architects and concernedwith the planning and management of buildings used by 1-indicappedpeople. Accepted internationally as the definitive work on the subject.

11EHANDBOCEOFRIDIGRKS

f ralle"*N EU FERE

WARCHITECTS,DATA/

' etaNEW INTERNATIONAL EDMONm001.PCCSIMUNNOSTUS 100P.410f BACK rots

IABICS ClOtIESTS PIANIIKPArkCARIMOOPUVIS 51(104 C.GUMS bk07/30 RUIRSCLS

Neufert, ErnstARCHITECT'S DATA. THE HANDBOOK OF BUILDING TYPES

Second (international) English edition1980, 400 p

Published by Granada, P 0 Box 9, St Albans, Herts AL2 2NF, England

Abstract:From airports to youth hostels, 400 pages of different building typestudies. Tables, checklists, planning data. Over 300 plans, sections,diagrams, bibliography referencesSections re disabled. doors and windows. corridors, stairs, elevators.

RECENT TRENDS IN LEGISIATLONCONCERNING REHABVAT1ON SERVICES

FOR DISABLEff PERSONSIN SELECTED COUNTRIES

1.110 M171011

j1

Department of Economic and Social Affairs, United Nations I:

RECENT TRENDS IN LEGISLATION CONCERNING REHABILITA-TION SERVICE FOR DISABLED PERSONS IN SELECTED

COUNTRIES

1977, 31 pNew York

Abstract:Various rehabilitation programs which provide for those disabled per,-sons who are excluded from the ordinary social services. Examplesare given from countries in both the developing world as well asindustrialized countries.

72

73

Appendix 2

MM%

Eapen

RHO

United Nations expert group rneetingBARRIER FREE DESIGN

1975, 35 pPublished by Rehabilitation International

Abstract:The designing of areas suitable for disabled persons. Layouts andremoval of obstacles in and around buildings. Examples of co-ordinat-ed activities undertaken in a few countries.With Illustrations.

TRAINING THE DISABLEDIN THE COMMUNITY

AN UZPWMINTAL MANUAL OW RINANIUTATION ANDINSAINLIVI PIMIYANNON PON DIVALOPING COLINyMA

E Nan. P Mono. G MOS.

(4)

Helander E, Mendis P, Nelson GTRAINING THE DISABLED IN THE COMMUNITYSubtitle: An experimental Manual on Rehabilitation and DisabilityPreveiftion for Developing Countries.

WHO 1980, 1078 p(DPR/80.1 Version 2)Published by WHO, Geneva, Switzerland

Abstract:The manual contains:1. Training packages2. Six booklets, one each for training of the Six categories of disabled

persons3. Four Guides: for policymakers and planners; for local supervisors;

for community leaders; for teachers.With illustrations.

International Organization for Standardization, ISONEEDS OF THE HANDICAPPED IN BUILDINGS

1981, 15 pA declaration of ISO/TC 59/WG1(ISO's Technical Committee 59, Working Group 1)

Abstract:Brief design recommendations with illustrations.

73

011Aff 11,.w1 tilt

GUIDE, .

FUNCTIONAL NEEDSOF HANDICAPPED

PEOPLE IN BUILDINGSDesign guidelines

re reeanorroarmar moo mere mart

ISO GuideFUNCTIONAL NEEDS OF HANDIC\rPED PEOPLE IN BUILDINGS,

DESIGN GUIDELINES

1979 15 P-Information document from ISO/TC 59/WG1 published by Byggstan-dardiseringen, Drottning Kristinas Vag 73, S-114 28 STOCKHOLM

-Abstract:jBasic advice to designers fdintemal arcl external environments for thehandicapped including the needs of handicapped persons in build-ings.With illustrations.

LEJ

a.v) 0zeco,,,

0

Council of ES ropeAliAPTATION OF HOUSING AND SURROUNDING AREAS TO THENEEDS OF.DISABLED PERSONS

1979, 45 pStrasbourg (P-SG (79)4)

The resolution was adopted by the Committee of Minithers in Novem-ber 1977,

TherePort was prepared in 1977, revised 1978, by the Joint Commit-tee on the Rehabilitation and Resettlerrient of the Disabled.

Abstract:The functional basis for persons confined to wheel-chairs includingthe adoption of houses, cars, etc for their need. Planning criteria andtheir usefulness.

8VOONAOSTILLOANOLIGHET FORHANDIKAPPADE.RlIalinjor too norellske byggbostIlmenelsor

NKB-driP ArUpend. OH

ACCS351110111. Or 00100100110 HANDICAPPED 0E15009CAudehre. rAstbr ENIAIng HENIHAAA

NIMENEANsma AA 0ArpHroser 1011

The Nordic Committee on Building Regulations, NKBACCESSIBILITY OF BUILDINGS TO HANDICAPPED PERSONSSubtitle: Guidelines for. Nordic Building Regulations

1974;30 p

(NKB publication no 19) UDK:721.011:362.4rit

Abstract:Guidelines for Nordic building regulations concerning the handicapped people. Co-ordinated rules pertaining in the Nordic countries.

75

Appendix 2

Document D9:1972

Accessible townsworkable homes

National SwediABuilding Research

National Swedish Building ResearchACCESSIBLE TOWNS WORKABLE HOMES

Document D9:1972

(Distribution: Svensk Byggtjanst, Box 1403,S-111 84 STOCKHOLM)

UDK '711.4:362.4728.1:362.4

SfB AISBN 91-540-2044-1

Abstract:Swedish planning criteria for housing adapted to disabled persons.Use of standard dwellings and adaptation to the urban environment.

ICTA4Ke

YHE PHYSICAL IINVIFIONINSINT/MOTHS VISUALLY PAPAS=

Tesesra.../1maramir.wravteal *A.m.wwmclairs irmaln..

Per 0.1 Onal

Braf, P-GTHE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT AND THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED(The Planning and adaptation of buildings and other forms of physicalenvironment for visually impaired people)

1974, 34 pICTA Information Centre

Abstract:A handbook for planning and forming the physical environment insuch a way that it is suitable for persons with impaired vision but alsomakes daily life easier for everybody.With illustrations.

selbusnWmi cA;G for' ovigccessfor dVIER-NATIONAL COMMISSIONON TECHNICAL AIDS

._....!. p

, -..-..............,,- -

/ Noble, C WycliffeGUIDELINES FOR IMPROVING ACCESS FOR DISABLED PEOPLE

Publication by:The Royal Association for. Disability and Rehabilitation (RADAR). Notyet published.

On behalf of:International Commission on Technical Aids (ICTA): Housing andTransportation ofiRehabilitation Ithernational (RI).

Abstract:The publication will alert those who are responsible for setting upstrategic plans for the erection of buildings open to the public in urbanand city developments in developing countries. In many situations,consortia from industrialised countries is used and often the needs of

disabledpeople are not provided in the solutions that '"are being

offered.

75 ti

Appendix 2

co

cc.4

z . .icn.

De!

03 czg

cn gcn111

C.)0 'g'g

.

.

...-

'Jones, Michael A .

ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS ILLUSTRATED

Editor:Donald S Glickman, Capital Development Board, State of Illinois, USA.

1978, 217 p

Abstract:A comprehensive handbook. Illustrated With photographs andsketches. US examples of the adaptation of the interior of buildingsand the outdoor environment to various types of handicappedpersons. Hazards are pointed out.

Part VI

Architectural andTransportationBarriers ComplianceBoard .

.1.111.1.1

Federal Re'gister, USA ,Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, Part VIMINIMUM GUIDELINES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESSIBLEDESIGN; FINAL RULE

1981, 34 p

(36 CFR Part 1190: Federal Register, Vol 46 no 11)

Abstract:US rules for the removal of obstacles to disabled persons using thephysical environment. Planning criteria.

poureliminer

les barriereset les obstacles

architecturaux

Association Suisse des InvaliclesGUIDE POUR ELIMINER LES BAR RIERES ET LES OBSTACLES.ARCHITECTURAUX

1976, 63 p

Abstract:Guidelines for architects wijh illustrations. Planning criteria for diS-

abled persons' accessibility in outdoor environments and buildings.Issued in Switzerland..

Appendix 2

Muller, Henrik and Rolen, GOsta.AIRLINES AND DISABLED TRAVELLERS

1977, 64 pIOTA Information Centre, Stockholm, Sweden

Abstract:An analysis of the situation for disabled persons using airtravel facili-ties including various obstacles of a physical and organizatiohal na-ture. Proposals are included of suitable measures to'be taken.With illustrations.

Beckman, MatsBUILDING FOR EVERYONE

197, 108 p

Ministry of Housing and Physical Planning, Stockholm, Sweden.

Abstract: .1Building for Everyone, a Review.The Disabled and the Built Environment in Sweden. Contribution tothe United Nation's Conference on Human Settlements. A dedcriptionof the conditions in Sweden, problems, measures forsecurity, regula-tions and examples of physical environments adapted to the disabled.With illustrations. .

The Economicsof DisabWiy:International Perspectives

Ei

diai_w_r-A11111111

PM Nen n Sitl.1111...111,40I. WI II VI a41 4.1111 IN 1.11Y .11.4

Rehabilitation International in cooperation with the United NationsTHE ECONOMICS OF DISABILITY: INTERNATIONAL' PRESPEC-TIVES

1981, 237 pRehabilitation International, 432 Park Avenue, South, New York, NewYork 10016, USA.

. Abstract:The financial situation for both the disabled and the agencies helpingthem.

. With illustrations,

7 7 ,s

Belgium Association National pour le Logements des Handicapes,-; ARCHITECTURE ET ACCESSIBILITE, documents techniques 1

12p

Abstract:Belgian rules for adoption of the wheel-chairs confined to indoor andoutdoor environment. Special attention is paid to the dimensions

wheel-chair movements require,With illustrations.

Department of Veterans Benefits, Veterans Administration, Washing-ton, USAHANDBOOK FOR DESIGN: SPECIALLY ADAPTED HOUSING

1978, 79 p (VA pamphlet 26-73)

Department of Veterans Benefits, Veterans Administration, Washing-ton DC 20420, USA

Abstract:A design manual for adaptation of housing in USA to the requirementsof physically disabled persons.

ceh, Centre on Environment for the Handicapped . ,

BIBLIOGRAPHY. 1: DESIGN FOR PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPEDPEOPLE ' \

if,

1980, 44 p ,

London, ceh, 126 Albert Street, Lon on N117/tINF, England

Abstract:A comprehensive annotated bibliography. The bibliography directsreaders to the relevant design guidance, legislation and governmentcirculars and to books, reports, and periodical articles to increaseunderstanding of the needs of handicapped people. The bibliographymainly concerns the conditions in Great Britain.

76'

Appendix 2

ACROD/ICTA, sub-commission Asia-Pacific Region

ASIA PACIFIC DISABILITY AIDS HANDBOOK 1982

Australian Council for Rehabilitation of Disabled International Com-mission on Technical Aids, Buildings and Transportation18 Argyle Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia

Abstract!The handbookas a compilation of information regarding appropriateindigenous technical aids and'appliances for people with disabilitiescollected from within the Asia Pacific region. The information ispresented -in the form of individual data sheets for each aid orappliance with a diagram and details of designer and/or manufac-turer.

Rehabilitation InternationalINTERNATIONAL STATEMENTS ON DISABILITY POLICY

1981

Published by Rehabilitation International

Abstract:A selection of key policy statements. The majosr policy documents of

'the United Nations' system and several from the most representativeof the non-governmental organisations.

Nederlandse Verenigin vo r RevalidatieARCHITECTURAL FACILIVES F THE DISABLED

1973

Published by ICTA, Bromma, 5,weden

Abstract:A compilation of information fromvarious countries has formed a basisfor assessing some directions for requirements enabling handicappedpersons to function in society. The publication concentrates on therequirements of physically handicapped persons and the basic datafqr freedom of movement can be obtained from the sketches contain-

'? ing infoljnation on dimensions of wheel-chair and reaching zones ofhandicapped persons.

79

3, 'Standards, bibliography

lo04,,Australian Standard1428-1977

DESIGN RULESFOR ACCESS BYTHE DISABLED

* STANDARDS ASSOCOATION Of AUSTRALIA

Standards Association of AustraliaDESIGN RULES FOR ACCESS BY THE DISABLED(Australian Standard 1428-1977)

1979, 36 p

UDC 721:052.362.4SfB Ba4ISBN 07262 1283.0

Abstract:Australian Standard. Code ofaccess by the disabled,

AS.1428-1977 including an annotated bibliography.

Practice concerning design rules for

BS 5810:1979

Coda of pranks for

Access for the disabled;to buildingsSamoon.C.Te INNS

coodnNoztoNoro.Nawasa,...odoo.

British Standards Institution Gr 6

British Standards InstitutionBS 5619CODE OF PRACTICE FOR DESIGN OF HOUSING FOR THE 'CON-

VENIENCE OF DISABLED PEOPLE

1978

Abstract:Recommendations are given for ramps, lifts; car parking, paths, doors,circulation spaces, fldors, windows, kitchens, bedrooms, WCs, bath-rooms, stairs, and services.

tit

BUILDINGPRACTICE

NOTE

oarmtoor 1111111. 11 no, 1111 ',moo wootoorols

4 Soosiss

!:t!!1!!!!!!:;!!!'!:::::1S. to.,ss...

.41.11

1 NO 14

Canada, Buang Practice Note No 14, Johnson, B MACCESSIBLE PEDESTRIAN SYSTEMS FOR THOSE WITH PHYSI----CAL DISABILITIES

1979, 47 p(National Research Council, Canada)

ISSN 0701t5216.

Abstract:The note describes the general planning of pedestrian circulationsystems and the design requirements for internal pedestrian facilitieswith emphasis on the needs of the elderly or persons With physicaldisabilities.1. Plawatng for Accessibility; 2. Interior Pedestrian Systems;3. Stai?s,) 4. Elevators; 5. Doorways; 6. Ramps; 7. EmergencyEvacuation of BuildingWith illustrations and including an annotated bibliography

80

81

Appendix 3.

111111111t111 N.. 51.114 111101151 1111191110 COOL .1 CANADA

BUILDING STANDARDSFOR THE HANDICAPPED1970

Imo/ SitNI 41.10010 C00.111110 .0011.41 IYIWIN tiI1N ATIONAL 111151(1 MUNCH 01 OTTAWA--

N it Ns. IWONI. Ii mit

National Research Council of Canada, OttawaBUILDING.STANDARDS FOR THE HANDICAPPED

(National Building Code of Canada, Supplement no 5, NRC No 11430)

1970, revised,in 1980, 24 p 172

Abstract:Canadian Building Standards for the Handicapped including an anno-tated bibliography.

Bygningsrbglement

1977

\

Sollgministeriet

Denmark, Ministry of HousingBUILDING REGULATIONS

1977

Abstract:The publication presents Danish Norms. Chapters 4 and 5, pp 48, 49,50, concern moving and orientation difficulties for disabled persone.',4/

110

MINISTERIET FOR INRIKESARENDENA

F 16y(abostarnmelsetam ling

PLANERING AV UTRYMMEN AVSEDDA FORALLMANHETEN MEO BEAKTANDE AVUTRYMMENABLAMPLIGHET FOR RORELSEHINDRADE

Foresk/Iffer och mrodsnInger 1978

Finland, Ministry of Home AffairsTHE PLANNING OF FLOOR SPACE FOR USE BY THE GENERALPUBLIC WITH SPECIAL CONSIDERATION TO THEIR SUITABILITYFOR PERSONS WITH IMPAIRED MOBILITY

(Finland's Building Regulations)

1978, 7 p.

Abstract:1. Presents the regulations concerning the dimensions of doorwaysand entrances with principal regard to general aspects fo safety.2. Regulations issued during the autumn of 1973, with explanations inan official letter. § 85a proposal for a regulation,: Buildingszlf7ili-ties used by the public should be accessible to persons wh bili-ty or orientational capacity is handicapped by age, invalidity or sick-ness.

Appendix 3

The French Association for Normalisation, Paris, (AFNOR)

BUILDING FOR THE PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED

1978. 26 p(NF P 91-201) NOT

-Abstract:Building for the physically handicapped,

OS 5810 1979

Ceded punce fo,

Access for the disabledb3 buildings1.0.0 14 he

Law ...Mem

Standards Instautton S.6

British Standards Institution (BSI)Code of Practice forAL;CESS FOR THE DISABLED TO BUILDINGS',

BS 5810:1979

UDC 721.051-056.26:69.026/028

Abstract:The code concentrates on the essential provisions that need to beincorporated in buildings to ensure that they are conveniently usableby diSabled people.In the case of certain building types which are financed in the UK frompublic funds, for example health, welfare and educational buildingsthe government departments concerned recommend' standards.ofprovision and design including those for disabled people.

.40

.

Holland, Nederlandse Vereniging voor Revalidatie (NVR)GEBODEN TOEGANG

1973, revised in 1979, 134 p

Abstract:Recommendations. Including an annotated bibliography. The recom-mendations are systemati ally laid down in sketches.

82 /

83"

Appendix 3

N21 4121Pert 1t 11711

MEW ZEALAND STANDARD

Code of Practice for

DESIGN FOR ACCESS

BY HANDICAPPED PERSONS

PART I

PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

F -7. : 1.0IM0,==

Standards Association of New Zealand, WellingtonCODE OF PRACTICE FOR DESIGN FOR ACCESS BY HANDICAP-PED PERSONS, PART 1: PUBLIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

1971, 28 p

(New Zealand Stanoaru NZS 4121, part 1, 1971)

UDC 721.052:362.4

Abstract:Code of Practice for Design for Access by Handicapped Persons. Part1: Public Buildings and Facilitie3, August 1971. Including an annotatedbibliography.(Mandatory when adopted by a local authority.)

handicapadaptationofbuildingsLorna. hem the SWd1.13 Building Ordinance.horn the ewe< Bah Building CPOend from Cornmenteriee to the Code

II" NOM Swedo. Bo. el el Plannoplind SuAd,

The National Swedish Board of Planning and BuildingHANDICAP ADAPTATION OF BUILDINGS

1981Liber Forlag, Stockholm, SwedenISBN 91-38-06626-2

Abstract:Extract ..corn the Swedish Building Ordinance, from the SwedishBuildir, code and from Commentaries to the Code.

O

MEASURES TO BE APPLIED IN BUILDINGS TO FACILITATE FORDISABLED PERSONS

1974, 23 p

Norme SNV 521 500 1974SfB (9) (98) ,DK /CCU 72-; .362.4

Abstract:Norm.

83

841\

AO)endix 3

Ae*titan National StandrP;itoocitivi ion,

octet td.lo y

orllyically Fiord; impact 1.1.0:10

American National Standards Institute Inc, New Yo'k ANSISPECIFICATIONS FOR MAKING BUILDINGS ILITIES AC-

CESSIBLE AND USABLE BY PHYSICALLY Hi -D PEOPLE

1980, 67 p

(ANSI Al 17 -1 1980)

,4,bstract:American National Standard, including an annotated bibliography.Specifications for making buildings and facilities accessible to and \

usable by the physically handicapped.

The Senateiand the House of Representatives of the United States of

America IPUBLIC LAW 90-480

August 12, 1968

Abstract:An act to insure thaf certain buildings financed with federal funds are

so designed and constructed as to be accessible to the physicallyhandicapped.

United States Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance

BoardA GUIDE BOOK TO: THE MINIMUM FEDERAL GUIDELINES ANDREQUIREMENTS FOR 'ACCESSIBLE DESIGN.

USA January 1981

Abstract:The guidelines and requirements provide a basis for the, issuance of

consistent and improved accessibility and usability standards by someUS authorities including the Federal Standard Setting Agencies. Thebooklet is printed in a format which should be readily usable by

building officials and building managers. Illustrated.

4 Summary of the thpst important measures toprevent disability

GENERALNutrition

ENVIRONMENTAL

Communicable diseases

Road accidents

Home accidents

Occupational accidents anddiseases

SOCIAL

Child neglect and abuse

Alcohol and drug abuse

SOCIO-MEDICAL

Genetic-disorders

MEDICAL

Perinatal diseases (e g cerebralpalsy and brain damage)

Impairments .-,aused by medicines

Source: Training for the Disabled

Improved agriculture to increase and diversify output, improve distri-bution of foodstuffs, the provision of fertilizers and training of ruralpopulation in appropriate agricultural techniques, irrigation, etc, publiceducation to improve composition of meals and cooking habits, bettercontrol of gastrointestinal infections, and supplentary feeding, e gvitamines and iodine.

Provision of proper water and sewage syslems, public education toimprove hygiene and avoid transmission of disease, vaccination pro-grammes.

Public education for drivers and pedesiiians, better education andsupervision of children at accident-prone age, technically imp( adroads and regular checks of vehicle roadworthiness, and legisid:,;_:.nand improved c 'orcement of traffic regOlations, etc.

Community eduL :ion, better supervision of children, improv,:rnent ofhousing and home installations, (e g cooking, stoves, and use ofdangerous fuel), legislation and enforcement of riles to p'event acci-dents.

Education of workers, improved took and machinery (including agri-culture), monitoring of accidents and environmental hazards, Ilse ofsafety devices, (e g when climbing houses and trees), legislation toprotect against hazardous agents. and the-formation of safety corrtmit-tees.

Community :education, improved level ,-f schooling, legislatior andlaw enforcement.

Legislation and law enforcement to reduce supply and accessibility,and public education to understand the consequences of abuse.

Counselling to discourage consanguinous marriages, child spacing toreduce natality in high risk families. Contraception, pregnancy termi-nation, sterilization, if culturally acceptable.,

4.6

Improved perinatal care

control of drug import and manufacture, testing, legislation toprohibit hazardous drugs.

WHO (with minor amandments)

85 .

86

5( UN Resolutions

3447 (XXX) Declaration on the FRights of DisabledPersons.2433rd plenary meeting, 9 Dec tuber 1975.

31/123 International Year for D sabled Persons.102nd plenary meeting, 16 De ember 1976.General Assembly A/34/158/Add 1, 21 November1979.Thirty-fourth session Agenda items 79 and 98.International Year for Disabled;Persons. ProposedProgramme Budget for the Biennium 1980-1981.I. Introduction, 1, 2, 36, 37.General Assembly A/RES/34/154, 30 January1980.Thirty-fourth session Agenda item 79.Resolution adopted by the General Assembly (onthe report of the Third Committee A34/782)34/154 International Year of Disabled Persons.105th plenary meeting, 17 December 1979.General Assembly A/RES/35/133, 27 January1981.Thirty-fifth session Agenda item 79.\Resolution adopted by the General Assembly (onthe report of the Third Committee A46/638)35/133 International Year of Disabled Persons.92nd plenary meeting, 11 December 1980.4/8 Human Settlements and the International Yearof Disabled Persons.The Commission on Human Settlements.6th plenary meeting, 6 May 1981.General Assembly A/36/37, 3 December 1981.Thirty -sixth sessirs1 Agenda item 30.International Year of Disabled Persons.

Referebee should ,also be made to the followingresolutions.

WHO (World Health Organisation)World Health Assembly.Resolution WHA 29.68.Adopted May 20, 1976.DISABILITY PREVENTION AND REHABILITA-TION.The text is given in Rehabilitation International'spublication, International Statements on Disability,Policy, see annexed annotated bibliography.

ILO (International Labour Organisation)The General Conference.Recommendation 99, Geneva 1955.RECOMMENDATIONS CONCERNING VOCATION-AL REHABILITATION OF THE DISABLED.The text, is given in Rehabilitation International's

. publication 'International Statements on ,Disability,Policy, see annexed annotated bibliography.

86

87

Appendix 5

UN Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons

Resolution 3447 XXX 09 Dr amber 1975

The General Assembly,

Mindful of the pledge made by Member States,under the Charter of the United Nations, to takejoint and separate action in co-operation with theOrganization to promote higher standards of living,full employment and conditions of economic andsocial progress and development.

Reaffirming its faith in human rights and funda-mental freedoms in the principles of peace, of thedignity and worth of the human person and of socialjustice proclaimed in the Charter.

Recalling the principles of the Universal Declara-tion of Human RightF, the International Covenantson Human Rights, the Declaration on the Rights ofChildren and the Declaration on the Rights of Men-tally Retarded Persons, as well as the standardsalready,set for social progress in the constitutions,conventions, recommendations and solutions ofthe International *our Organization, the UnitedNations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organi-zation, the World Health Organization, the United'Nations Children's Fund and other organizations'concerned.

Recalling also Economic and Social Council reso-lution (LVIII) of 06 May 1975 on the prevention ofdisability and the rehabilitation of disabled persons.

Emphasizing that the Declaration on Social Pro-gress and Development has proclaimed thenecessity of protecting the rights and assuring thewelfare and rehabilitation of the physically andmentally disadvantaged.

Bearing in mind the neqessity of preventingphysical and mental disabffities and of assistingdisabled persons to develop theft abilities is theMost Varied fields of activities and or promotingtheir integrations as far as possible in normal life.

Aware that certain countries, at their presen: stageof development, can devote only limited efforts tothis end.

Proclaims this Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons and calls for national and interna-tional action to ensure that it will be sued as a com-mon basis and frame of reference for the protectionof these rights:

1. rho term "DISABLED PERSOr, means per-son unable to ensure by hire ='t or herself,wholly or partly, the necessities of a normalindividual and/or social life, as a result of adeficiancy, either congenital or not, in his orher physical or mental capabilities.

2. Disabled persons shall enjoy all rights set forthin this Declaration. These rights shall be grant-ed to all disabled persons without any excep-tion whatsoever and without distinction ordiscrimination on the basis of race, colour, sex,language, religion, political or other opinions,national or social origin, state of wealth, birth orany other situation applying either to the dis-abled person himself or herself or to his or herfamily.

3. Disabled persons have the inherent right torespect for their human dignity. Disabled per-sons, whatever the origin, nature and serious-ness of their handicaps and disabilities, havethe same fundamental rights as their 'fellow-citizens of the 'same age, which implies firstand foremost the right to enjoy a decent life, asnormal and full as possible.

4. Disabled persons have the same civil and poli-tical rights as other human beings; paragraph 7of the Declaration on the Rights of MentallyRetarded Persons applies to any Possible limi-tation or suppression of those rights for men-tally disabled persons.

5. Disabled persons are entitled to the measuredesigned to enable them to become as sell-reliant as possible.

6. Disabled persons have the right to medical,psychological and functional treatment, includ-ing prosthetic and orthetic appli nces, to me-dical and social rehabilitation, education, voca-tional training and rehabilitation, laid, counsel-ling, placer e n t services and other serviceswhich will enable them to develop theircapabi-lities and skills to the maximum and will hastenthe procesS of their, social integration or reinte-gration. .

I

7. Disabled persons have 'the right to economicand social security and to a decent level ofliving. They have the right, according to theircapabilities; to secure and retain employmentor to engage in a useful, productive and remu-nerative occupation and to' join trade unions.

8. Disabled persons are entitled to have theirspecial needs taken into consideration at allstages of economic and social planning.

9. Disabled persons have the rights to live withtheir families or with foster parents and to paNticipate in all social, creative or recreational

activities. No disabled person shall be subject-,ed, as far as his or her residence is concerned,to differential treatment other than that requir-ed by his or her condition or by the improve-.ment which he or she may derive therefrom. Ifthe stay of a disabled person in a specializedestablishment is indispensable, the environ-ment and living conditions therein shall be asclose as poi Bible to those of the normal life of'a person of his or her age.

10. Disabled persons shall be protected against allexploitation, all regulations and all treatment ofa discriminatory, abusive or degrading nature.

11. Disabled persons shall be able to avail them-selves of qualified' legal aid when such aidproves indispensable for the protection of theirpersons and property: If judicial proceedingsare instituted against them, the legal proce-dure applied shall take 'their physical and men--tal condition fully into account.

.12. Organizations of disabled persons may beusefully consulted in all matters regarding the-fights of disabled persons.

. 13. Disabled persons, the families and commties shall be fully informed, by all appropriatemeans. of the rights contained in this Declara-tion.

88

89

Appendix 5

31/123 International Year for Disabled Persons

The General Assembly,

Reaffirming its deep-rooted faith in human rightsand fundamental freedoms, the principles of peace,the dignity and worth of the human persons and thepromotion of social justice, as proclaimed by theCharter Of the United Nations,

Recalling its resolution 2856 (XXVI) of 20 decemb-er 1971 proclaiming the Declaration on the Ri rtitsof Mentally Retarded Persons, -

Recalling its resolution 3447 (XXX) of 9 December1975 proclaiming the Declaration on the Rights ofdisabled persons,

Recalling its resolution 31/82 of 13 December1975 on the implementation of the Declaration onthe Rights of Disabled Persons,

1. Proclair;.; the year 1981 International Year forDisabk-d Persons with the theme "full participa-tion";

2. Decides to devote ti-at year to the realization ofa set of ot,fectives

(a) Helpit44 ft' :abed pig soks in their phy4c.411 andpsycholog',:2! .erit to socie

(b) Promcjin9 t;!; ri,b(r t z:nd international effortsto or, persons with proper assist-ance, care and guidance, to makeavailable to tiiern opportunities for 1;;!itahle workand to ensure their full integration in society.

(c) Encouraging study and research projects de-,sgned to facilitate the practical participation ofdisabled persons in daily life, for example byimoroving their access to public buildings andtransportation systems;

(d) Educating and informing the public of the rightsof disabled persons to participate in and contri-bute to various aspects of economic, social andpnlitical

(e, Promoting effective measures for the preve1. on of disability and for the rehabilitation of dis-abled persons; \

3. Irivites all MemberState nd the organizationsconcerned to give their t ration to the estab-lishment o asureS\ an programmes to im-plement the obj ctives`of the International Yearfor Disabled Per ns; N

4. Requests the Se taryrG neral to elaborate,in consultation with ember tates, specializedagencies and the org ization concerned, andto submit to the Gene I Asse bly at its thirty-second session a draft ogramm for the Inter-

hatibnal Year for Disable. Persons;

5. Decides to include in the provisional agenda ofits thirty- second session an item entitled "Inter-national Year fnr Disabled Persons".

102nd plenary meeting16 December 1976

8 9,

90cx

Appendix 5

II, I ERNATIONAL YEAR FOR DISABLED'

PROPOSED PROGRAMME BUDGET FOR THE

BIENNIUM 1980-1981 °

Report of the Secretary-GeneralAddendum

4,11TRODUCTION

1. In paragraph 13 of his report on the InternationalYear for Disabled Persons (A/32/288), submittedto the General Assembly at its thirty-second ses-sion, the Secreraty-General provided a provisionaloutline of the estimated costs for the 1980-1981biennium relating to the celebration of the Year. In

paragraph 8 of the related statement of administrat-ive and financial implications 'on that subject (A/C.5/32/89), it was indicated that these estimateswould be reviewed at a later stage of the preparato-ry process for the Year and that more preciseestimates of the costs would be included in theproposed programme budget for the biennium1980-1981 as a non-recurrent item related to thecelebration of the Year.

Manuals on architectural barriers

316. In paragrap!) 74 (n) of its :'eport, the AdvisoryCommittee recommended that a series of ma-nuals should be prepared covering:(2) Modification of architectural and Other

man-made barriers, to be carried out by thepeople themselves; within community de-velopment programmes and co-operativesof disabled persons;

kb) Model projects for the organization of resi-dential and other physical facilities for dis-abled persons;

(c) Systems and methods in development aidprojects to eliminate existing barriers andto avoid the eation of new ones;

(d) Criteria for trainim rational and local reha-bilitation personoei oroer that they mayidentify archi ;c'eturai and man-made bar-riers that could be eliminated or altered aspart of general community imprcvementprogrammes;

(e) Development. of a series of indicators terassessing the level or degree of accessibi-lity of existing buildings and facilitiesintended for general use. N

[i0

91

Appendix 5

RESOLUTION ADOPTED BY THE GENERALASSEMBLY/on the report of the Third Committee(A/34/782)/

34/154. International Year of Disabled Persons

The General Assen rbly

Recalling its resolution 31/123 of 16 December1975, by which it proclaimed the year 1981 Inter-national Year for Disabled Persons.

Recalling also its resolutions 32/133 of 16 Decem-ber 1977, by which it established the AdvisoryCommittee for the International Year of DisabledPersons, :-.6-1 33/17u of 20 December 1978.

Recognizing that the International Year of DisabledPersons should promote the realization of the rightof disabled persons to participate fully in the sociallife and development of the societies in which theylive and their enjoyment of living conditions equalto those of other citizens, as well as en equal sharein' the improvements in living :onditions resultingfrom social and economic development.

Recognizing also that the International Year of Dis-abled Pe sons should enhance the contributionsdisabled persons can make as full members ofsociety.

Acknowle ging that disability should be viewed asa relationship between an individual and his or her

.environment.

Convinced that the International Year of DisabledPersdns should result in societies respondingmore fully to the: special difficulties which disabledpersons may counter in developing their humanpotential:

Convino-d also that, since a ge number of dis-abled persons arevictims of war and other forms ofviolence, the International Year of Disabled Per-sons could be appropriately used as an occasion toemphasize the need for continued and reinforcedco-operation among nations for world peace.

Stressing the importance of following up the activi-ties of the International Year of Disabled Personsthrough a long-term programme of action.

Noting that the .Secretary-General will appoint anExecutive Secretary for the International Year ofDisabled Persons.

Noting also the relevant parts a the 1978 report onthe world social situation,

Taking note of the report of the Advisory Commit-tee for the International Year of Disabled Persons inits first session held from 19 to 23 March 1979.4

1. Decides to expand the theme of t Interne-,tional ,Year of Disabled Person to "Fullparticipation and equality".

2. Approves the recommendationAdvisory Committee for the Intof Disabled Persons at its first

made by thernational Yearession, con-

tained in the report of the Secretary-General,and adopts them as the Plan of Action for theInternational Year of Disabled Persons.

3. Stresses the pragmatic orientation of the acti-vities of the International Year of Disabled Per-sons.

4. Affirms that the major focus of the InternationalYear of Disabled Persons is at the nationallevel, with supporting activities at the regionaland international levels.

5. Invites Member States to consider aptivitie atthe national level along the lines of the Plan ofaction Sand in ways that are in conformity withthe culture, customs and traditions of eachcountry.

6. Also invites the relevant specialized agenciesand the concerned United Nations bodies todevote special attention .to the implementationof the Plan of Action.

7. Affirms further that, in the implementatio4 ofthe Plan of Action, special attention should begiven to the disable gl in developing countriesthrough the provisioh of technical assistance,both multilateral and bilateral, for the preven-tion of disabilities and for rehabilitation.

8. Requests the Secretary-General in this regard,to accord priority to the organization of anaction-oriented international symposium ofexperts on technical assistance in the (if I ofdisability and technical co-operation amongdeveloping countries, as recommendeu by theAdvisory Committee.

9. Requests the Secretary General to explore thepossibilities of continuing the activities of theInternational Institute for the Rehabilitation ofDisabled Persons in Developing Countries andto submit a report in this respect to the GeneralAssembly at its thirty-fifth session.

10. Invites the Chairman of the Advisory Commit-tee to participate in promoting the observanceof the International Year of Disabled Persons,and requests the Secretary-G9neral to provideevery means to assist hirrtC-in this regard,including liaison functions arHeadquarters.

11. Requests the Secretary-General to providethe secretariat of the International Year of Dis-abled Persons with all necessary resourcesneeded tO follow up the implementation of the

92

Appendix 5

Plan of Action, including the public informationactivities.

12. Requests the Secretary - General to convene ameeting of the Advisory Committee in 1980 toexamine the implementation of the Plan of Ac-tion and to begin the consideration of a long-term programme of action.

13. Requests the Secretary-General to lake ur-gent steps to publicize fully the InternationalYear of Disabled Persons and, in this connexion, to choose an emblem fot the Year at theend of 1979.

14. Requests tne.specialized agen4as and otherUnited Nations bodies concerned to prepareconcrete and co-ordinatedtplans for the Inter-natiqnal Year of Disabled Persons, to be sub-mitted to the. Advisory Committee at its ses-sion in 1980.

15. Invites the regional commissions of the UnitedNations and other regional intergovernmentalorganizations to formulate, as early as poss-ible,-their cori!ributions to the activities of theInternational Year of Disabled Persons.

16. Stresses the importance of the active partici-pation of non-governmental orgQnizations, es-pecially organizations of disallten personsthemselves, at both the national and interna-tional leVels, in support of the InternationalYear of Disabled Parsons.

17. Welcomes the voluntary contributions alreadymade by some Governments to the Interna-tional Year of Disabled Persons and appealsfor further voluintary contributions for the Year.

18. Invites .Member States to submit national re-ports to the Secr4ary-General on their imple-mentation of the Plan of Action and, in particu-lar, to consider elaborating, on the basis oftheir experiences, national long-term pro-grammes of action in the field of disability.

19. Decides to include in the, provisioral agenda ofits thirty .fifth session an item entitled -interna-tional Year of Disabled Persons" and requests.the Secretary-General to report on the imple-mentation of the present resolution.

105th plenary meeting17 December 1979

93

Appendix 5

RESOLUTION ADOPTED BY THE GENERALASSEMBLY/on the report of the Third Committee(A/35/638)/35/133. International Year for Disabled Persons

The General Assembly

Recalling its resolution 31/123 of 16 December1976, by which it proclaimed the year 1981 Inter-national Year for Disabled Persons.

Recalling also its resolutions 32/133 of 16 Decem-ber 1977, by which it established the AdvisoryCommittee for the International Year of DisabledPersons, 33/170 of 20 December 1978 and 34/154of 17 December 1979.

Recalling further resolution 2 entitled "Improvingthe situation of disabled women of all ages", adopt-ed by the World Conference of the United NationsDecade for Women: Equality, Development andPeace.

Recognizing that the International Year of DisabledPersons should promote the realization of the rightof disabled persons to participate fully in the socialfife and development of their societies and to enjoyliving conditions erItIP! :o those of other citizens, asWell as an equal share in the improvements livingcohditions resulting from social and economic de-velopment.

Bearing in mind he importance of coordination atthe national, regilonal and international levels in theprogramming for the prevention of disability andtne rehabilitation of disabled persons.

Convinced that the International Year of DisabledPersons should give the impulse for the establish-ment of a long-term world plan of action to followup the activities of the Year:

Recognizing that the International Year of DisabledPersons should contribute to a greater awarenessof the magnitude and complexity of the incidenceof physical, sensorial and mental disabilitiesthrough, inter alia, effective public information acti-vities.

Having considered the offer of the Government ofArgentina to act as host to the action-oriented in-ternational symposium {,f experts on technical as-sistance in the field of disability and technical co-operation among developing countries, to be con-vened during the International Year of DisabledPersons.

Cbncerned about the need to provide the secreta-riat of the International Year of Disabled Personswith the resources necessary for the implementa-tion of the Plan of Action for the Year and its follow-up.

1 Notes with satisfaction the steps already takenin the implementation of the Plan of Action forthe International Year of Disabled Persons byMember States, organs, organization:; and bo-dies of the United Nations system and non-governmental organizations,' and encouragesthem to intensify their action and coordinationduring the Year.

2. Recommends that, in their efforts to pro.motethe full participation of disabled persons in allaspects of life, Member States and organs,organizations and bodies of the United Nationssystems should pay particular attention to theparticipation of disabled persons themselvesand of their organizations in the activitiesundertaken in connexion with the InternationalYear of Dishled Persons and its follow-up.

3. Inviti:,s Member States which have not yetdone so to establish national committees orsimilar bodies for the International Year of Dis-abled Persons.

4. Urges Member States to give higher priority todevelopment assistance projects in develop-ing coun,'ios in the fields of rehabilitation ser-vices, teulinical aids and training of appropriatepersonnel, including disabled persons them-selves.

5. Welcomes the voluntary contributions madeby Governments to me International Year ofDisabled Persons and appeals for further vo-lun}ary contributions to the Year.

6. Decides to accept the offer of the Governmentof Argentina to act as host in 1981 to theaction-oriented international symposium ofexperts on technical assistance in the field ofdisability and technical co-operation amongcieveloping.countries, to be held in coriformitywith the Plan of Action for the InternationalYear of Disabled Persons.

7. Requests the regional commissions to formu-late appropriate programmes for implementing,the rec.c.,;ime:-.,-lajons contained in the Plan ofActiert tor the International Year of DisabledPersons.

94

Appendix 5

8. Requests the Secretary-General to examinethe question of access to United Nationstuild-ings, documents and information for personswith sensorial disabilities.

9. Further requests the Secret ry-General to

strengthen the information activities arid toprovide the secretariat of th, International Yett.r.of Disabled persons with ;,i: Iti.l resnurces andpersonnel necessary for ca(; yirg cut its work.

10. Welcomes the progress already made in thedrafting of a long-term world plan of action andapproves the procedure a d time-scale for itsadoption proposed by the Advisory Committeefor the International Year of Disabled Personsat its second session,

11. Requests the Secretary-General to convene asession of the Advisory Committee in 1981.

12. Requests the Advisory Committee to examinethe possibilities of continuing the activities ofthe International Institute for the Rehabilitationof Disabled Persons in Developing Countriesin the light of the experience of the Internation-al Year of Disabled Persons.

13. Invites all heads of State or Government, thePresident of the thirty-fifth session of the Ge-neral Assembly and the Secretary-General toissue special.messages at the beginning of theinternational Year of Disabled Persons.

Decides to itude in the provisional agenda ofits thirty-sixt ession the item entitled "Inter-national Year of Disabled Persons" and. inview of its importance, recommends that thisitem should be considered by the General As-sembly in plenary meeting, in observance ofthe Year.

15. Requests the Secretary-General to report tothe Ger sembly at its thirty-sixth ses-sion o.. ientation of the present re-solution.

f4,

92nd plenary meeting11 December 1980

l/

95

Appendix 5

UN RESOLUTION 4/8HUMAN SETTLEOtliNTS AND THEINTERNATIONAL YEAR OF QISABLED PERSONS

The Commissibn on Human Settlements

Recalling General Assembly resolution 31/123 of16 December 1976 by which 1981 was proclaimedthe International Year of Disabled Persons,

Further recalling General Assembly resolution3447 (XXX) of 9 December 1975 on the Declarationon the Rights of Disabled Persons,

Recognizing the legitimate right of the disabled tofull participation in the development of the societiesin which they live,

Further recognizing t t it is in human settlementsthat obstacles preven g the fUll participation ofdisabled persons are cri t apparent and tangible,

Affirming that it is technically and economicallyfeasible to design and adjust human settlements tomeet the needs f disabled persons,

1. Urges Governments to give special considera-tion to the legitimate needs of the disabled intheir human settlements programmes and poli-cies;

2. Further urges Governments and the United Na-tions system to support and assist national andinternational endeavours to diminish or elimi-nate barriers in human settlements that preventthe full participation of the disabled in socialdevelopment;

3. Requests the Executive Director of the UnitedNations Centre f6- Hum. Settlements (Habitat)to give due consideration to the needs of dis-abled persons in human settlements in the workprogramme of the Centre.

6th plenary meeting '16 May 1981in Manilla

44,

9j

96

Appendik 5

RESOLUTION ADOPT@ III' THE GENERALASSEMBLY/on the report of the Thira Co. ,nitte,(A/36/37)/International Year of Disable° i ur sons.

The General Assembly,

Recalling its resolution 31/123 of 16 December1976, by which it proclaimed the year 1981 Inter-national Year of Disabled Persons,

Recalling also its resolution 32/133 of 16 D.ecern-ber 1977, by which it established the AdvisoryCommittee for the International Year of DisabledPersons, 33/170 of 20 December 1978, 34/154 of

17 December 1979, in which it, later alia, decidedto expand the theme of the International-YearDisabled Persons to "Full participation and equalit", and 35/133 of 13 December 1980,

Deeply concerned that no less than five hurl& Hmillion persons are estimated to suffer from dim),lity of one form or another, of whom four hundrr2r1million are estimated to be in the develepindcountries,

Reiterating the continuing need to promote tr.,: rea-lization of the right of disabled persons topate fully in the social life and development t, .ir

societies and to enjoy living conditions e,;ual tothose of other citizens, as well as'an equal share inthe improvements in living .conditions resultingfrom social and economic development,

Recognizing the observance of the InternationalYear of Disabled Persons has contributed to theattainment of these objectives,

Recognizing a/so/that a large number of disabledpersons are victirns of war and other forms of viol-ence,. and that-the International Year of DisabledPersons has Contributed towards the reaffirmationof the need fOr continued and reinforced co-opera-tion among.nations for world peace;

Believing4hat the activities undertaken by the inter-national community 'in observing the InternationalYear of Disabled Persons constitute a first essentialstep towards the achievement of the objectives of

the Year,

Convinced that the timely and significant impetusgenerated by the activities of the International "rearof Disabled Persons should be maintained and re-inforced with appropriate follow-up action at all le-vels,

Taking note of the efforts of Member States duringtheinternational Year of Disabled Persons to im-04Sve the conditions and well-being of the dis-abled,

Expresses its satisfaction at the convening of theWorld Symposium of Experts on Technical Co-operation among Developing Countries and Tech-nical Assistance in Disability Prevention and Reha-bilitation,i8litaltion, at Vienna, Austria, from 12 23 October

Expresses also its satisfaction at the com, ailing ofthe World Conference on Actions and Strategiesfor Education, Prevention and Integration, at Torre-molinos, Spain, from 2 to 7 November 1981, orga-nized by the United Nations Educational, Scientificarid Cullum' Organization in observance of theYear

note with appreciation of the progress madein 112 elaboration of a World Programme of Actionconcen,ing Disabled Persons,

.unq considered the report of the Secretary-moral 77/ on the implementation of resolution

,5/133,

Having also considered the report of the Advisoryfor the International Year of Disabled

Persons 78/ on its third session,

1. Expresses its satisfaction to all Member Stateswhich elaborate'd national policies and pro-grammes for the implementation of the objec-tives of the Int6rnational Year of Disabled Per-

sons;

2. Takes note of the activities undertak\en byorganizations of the United Nations sjisterriand the relevant non governmental organiza-tions in the observance of the InternationalYear of Disabled Persons;

3. Urges Member States to make every effort toconsolidate and build further on the results ofthe International Year of Disabled Persons inorder to secure prevention of disability, rehabi-litation and full integration of the disabled in thesociety and, in this respect, to consider main-taining, where appropriate; the national com-mittees or similar bodies established for theYear;

4. Again invites Member States to submit nation-al reports to the Secretary-General on theirimplementation of the Plan of Action for theInternational Year of Disabled Persons and, inparticular, to consider elaborating, on the basisof their experiences; national long-term pro-grammes of. action in'the field of disability;

5. Requests the Secretary-General to convene in1982 a meeting of the Advisory Committee ofThe International Yoar of Disabled Persons tofinalize the draft World Programme of Actionconcerning 'Disabled Persons, in the light ofcomments by Member States, international

organizations and relevant non-goVeinmentalorganizations, with a view to its adoption bystheGeneral Assembly. at its thirty-seventh. ses-sion;

6. Requests the Advisory Committee to considerat its fourth session the advisability of pro-claiming the period -1983-1992 as the unitedNations-Dedde of Disabled Persons and tosubmit its views to the General Assembly at its.thirty-seventh session;

7. Requests the Advisory ComMittee to study thepossibility of creating an optional internationalidentity card for disabled persons with the pur-pose of facilitating the international travel ofdisabled persons:",

8. Urges the Secretary-General to take the ne-cessary measures to assure the successfulfollow-up of the International Year of DisabledPersons, in particular he .finalization, of theWorld Programme of Action 'Concerning Dis-abled Persons;

9. Also requests the Secretary-General and.heads of specialized agencies and other rele-vant organizations of the United Nations sys-,tem to enture necessary co-operation and co-ordination of their activities relating to the dis-abled;

10. Further requests the regional commissions togive high priority to the formulation and imple-mentation of regional .programmes related toequalization of opportunities far disabled per-sons, as well as preventioh and rehabilitation,:and urges the specialized agencies and rele-

. vent organs of the United Nations system tocontinue the implementation cif such program-mes;

11. Invites relevant non-governmental _organiza-tions to continue and expand their program-mes related to the disabled in order to maintainthe momentum given, by the International Year

. of Disabled Persons; -tr

12, Welcdmes the contributions made,by Govern-ments

.and private sources to the United, Na-

.tions Trust Fund for the Internatidnal Year ofDisabled PerSons and Oppeals for further vo-luntary Contributions which would facilitate thefollow-up of the Year;

13. Calls upon the Secretary-General to use an- 'appropriate portion of those voluntary contri-

butions to support and strengthen activities inthe developing countries related to Interna-tional Year of Disabled P ns, including thestrengthening of organizia s of disabled per-

. sons;

97

Appendix 5

14. Urges the Secretary-General, the specializedagencies and other United Nations bodies andOrganizations to undertake or expedite the

' measures already under way to improve em-ployment opportunities for disabled personswithin these bodies at all levels and to improveaccess to their buildings and facilities and totheir information sources;

15. Invites Member States to promote close -andeffective co-operation between developed anddeveloping countries through a transfer oftechnology and of the results of research andexchanges of information on the prevention ofdisability and the rehabilitation of disabled per-

,sons;

16. Also calls upon ttte Secretary-General and theheads of the specialized agancies to take allnecessary measures to strengthen and ex-- yand technical co-operation activities in deve-loping countries relating to the disabled, espe-cially iritheareas of Wevention of disability,rehabilitation -and integration of disabled intheir societies, with particular emphasis on theneed to develop and strengthen indigneouscapacities and capabilities;

17. Stresses the importance of strengthening sup-port services 'for the exchange of technicalinformation and transfer of technology andknow-how, as well as other activities for thedevelopment of technical co-operation in thefields of 'prevention, rehabilitation and equali-zation of opportunities in developing countries,and notes with appreciation the offer of the"-Government of Yugoslavia 79/ to contribute inthis direction;

18. Invites, as a- matter of priority, Member States,organizationsand bodies of the .0 nited Nationssystem, as weW as governmental and non-governmental organizations _concerned andmass media, to continue to undertake publicinformation programmes, including the conti-nuation of the present information activities ofthe Centrestor Social Development and Huma-nitarian Affairs for the national. committees,with a view to making all sections of the popu-lation increasingly aware of issues Opting tothe disabled:- 1

19. Decides to include in the provisional agenda ofits thirty-seventh session an item entitled'World Prograwme of Actfon concerning Dis-abled Persons and requests the. Secretary-General to report to the General Assembly atthat session on the implementation of the pre-sent resolution.

79/A/36/711.

98

6 Other resolutions

The International Conference "Handicapped in theCity.' on the adaptation of the physical environmentfor full participation of the Disabled has made thefolloWing formulation as part of their, resolution."Legislation must be introduced that gUarantees:

a. access for the disabled people to all events andfacilities which are available to the community atlarge.

b. systematic removal of physical barriers to en-sure adequate acccess ,tota choice of housing;education, employment, recreation and trans-portation.

c. financial support at international; national,regional and local leVels to ensure the availabili-ty of these programmes."

The Conferencg, was arranged by theInternational Federation of Pedestrians (IFP) incooperation with the Swedish Trade. FairsFoundation and the General Committee on

-National Associatioris of the Handicapped inSweden (HCK).

The resolution was accepted by the delegates atthe Conclusion Session May 7, 1980.

7 1YDP 1981, objectives of the year

"The year 1981 was proctaimed by,a resolution ofthe (LIN Gerieral Assembly in 1976 as the Interna-tional Year for. Disabled Persons, with the keynotetheme: "full participation and equality"ifhe aftn ofthe Year is to encourage the rehabilitation of theestimated 450 million people on earth who sufferfrom some-form of physical or mental impairment.Five principal objectives for the Year were set out inthe General Assembly resolution:

Helping, disabled, persons in their physical andpsychological adjustment to society.

Promoting all national and international efforts toprovide disabled persons with prober assistance,training, care and guidance, to make availableopportunities for suitable work and to ensuretheir full integration in society

Encouraging study and research projects de-signed to facilitate the practical participation ofdisabled persons in daily life, kir example byirhproving their access to public bpildings andtransportation systems

Educating and informing the public of the rightsof disabled pergOns to participate in and contri-bthe to various aspects of economic, social andpolitical life

Promoting effective measures for the preventionof disability and for the rehabilitation of disabledpersons.

LL

A

99

100

8 Functional requirements in the physical environment,

CATEGORY OFDISABLED PERSONS

PERSONS WHO HAVEMOVING DIFFICULTIES

PERSONS WHO HAVESEEING DIFFICULTIES

PERSONS WHO HAVEHEARD DIFFICULTIES

JD.

-PERSONS WHO NAVELEARNING DIFFICULTIES

PERSONS WHO IONESTRANGE BEHAVIOUS

PERSONS WHO HAVE FITS

t. RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS--wo

RuralTraditionalHouses

.Detached ,.Houses .

Low-riseHouses

High -rise~Houses

...,

Houses forthe disabled

EntranceSupportinghandrails

..

ProjectingcomponentsOpen fire-place

. ,

Simplelayouts--Uncompli-catedsolutions .

Simple.layoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

Open fire-place ;

EntranceDoors

A

.Projecting

Ficeplacomponents

e

$

,

SimplelayoutsOncompli-sated'solutions

1.

1

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

r

Fireplace

.

EntranceDoors .

StairsHandrails

.

Signst

.SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions .

....0

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

-6Fireplace

.EntranceDoors

.Lifts

StairsHandrails

Signs

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

SimplelayoutsUncompli-

. catedsolutions

.

EntranceDoors

StairsHandrailsColourSignalssLight

Signs

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

401

SimplelayoutsUncompli-cat'soltitio

."-

PUBLICNon

EducationalFacilities

Health'Facilities

EntrancesDoorsRampsSTepsStairsHandrailsSurfacesLavatohesCorridors

EntrancesDoorsSteps .

HandrailsWindowsSignsSurfaces .-LightColour

SignsLightAcoustics

(helpers)

Simplelayouts

Simple_

layet tsUncompli-catedsolutions

Edges .

Corners

EntrancesDoorsCorridorsLavatoriesStepsStairsRampsSurfacesHandrails

EntrancesDoors

.Steps'HandrailsSignsSurfacesLightColour

0

SignsLight <7

Acoustics

(helpers)

Simple'layouts

SinfplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutiops

EdgesCorners

scheme

II Is unrealistic to include all tie publications aril references regarding ,recommended provisions for disabled persons. However, thita arm:tated bibliography should give an extensive list of the principal Works.coveiing the disabled In the built environment. .

I 4,

'BUILDINGS

Administrativa RecreatinalFacilities Facilities

SportsFacilities

EntrancesDoors

,FlampsStepsStairsHandrailsSurfacesCorridqrSLaVatoriesLilts

EntrancesDoorsStepsHandrailsiSignsSurfacesLightColour

SignsLightAcoustics

(helpers)

Simplelayouts'

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

EdgesCorners

DoorsRampsStepsStairsCorridorsLiftsLavatoriesFloorsSwitchesHandrailsBaths

2'

EntrancesSignsSteps '

HandrailsSignsSurfacesColour

Signs

DoorsRampsStepsStairsCorridorsLavatoriesBathsSurfacesSwitchesHandrails

EthrancesRampsStepsStairWindowsHandrailsSigns .",Surfaca

Signs

Simple. Simpflayouts layouts

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

Simplelayouts

ncompli-ed

tionsSO

Edges EdgesCorners Corners

PLACES OF WORK INFRASTRUCTURAL BUILDINGS

OfficesIndustrialPremises

PedestrianRoutes

TransportSystems

StreetFurnituro

VehicularAccess

DoorsRampsStepsStairsConic-forsLavatoriesFloors

`rSwitchesHandrails

EntrancesDoorsSignsHandrailsSurfacesLightColour'

DoorsRampsStepsStairsCorridorsLay atoridsBathsFloorsSwitchesHandrails

EntrancesDoorsSignsHandrailsSurfaces

Cfrjotur

Signs Signsight---'" Light

Simplelayouts

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

EdgesCorners

Simplelayouts

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

Edge;Cornerser

RailsStepsRainpsPavementsCrossings

Footpaths.SignpostsSignalsSurfaceq,.,StepsHandrailsProjectingcomponents

SignsSignals

BITS

RailwaystationsRampsStepsEntrancesBustyLifts

SignsSignalsStepsLoud-speak-ing systemHandrailsHandles ,

SignsSignalsInformationboards

Simplicity Simplicityin plans in plansRecogniz- Recogniz-able ablefeatures features

SimplelayoutsUncompli-tatedsolutions

101

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

Doorsteps

Handrails

DoorsHandrailsStepsSigns.

'Colour

Recogniz-ablefeatures

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

HandrailsParkingspace

Recogniz-ablefeatures

SimplelayoutsUncompli-catedsolutions

101

102

9 Abbreviations.

AB Limited Company, SwedenAMREF African Medical Research FoundationCEH Centre on Environment for the

HandicappedDPI Disablbd;People's International

'FAO rood and Agriculture OrganizationHCK NatidQal Associations of the Handicapped

in Sw:enICTA International Commission on Technical AidsIFP Iriternational Federation of Pedestrians

_ ILO International Labour OrganizationISO International Organization for StandardizationIYDP(s) International Year of Disabled ;"esons

(see.,-etariat)MARU Medical Architecture Research Unit e

(The Polytechnic of North London)RADAR Tie Royal Association for Disability and

RehabilitatiotlRI Rehabilitation InternationalRIBA Royal Institute of Brittish ArchitectsSAR National Association of.Swedish-Architects.SHIA Swedish Handicap Organisations'

International Aid FoundationSIDA Swedish International Development

AuthorityUnited Nations

CHS United Nations Centre for HumanSettlements (Habitat)

0 World Health Organization

a

102

Front cover illustration'by Hugh Rigby.

ro

4

k

Printed in AustriaV.82.35229 January 1983-6,500

1 03%(