7/24/2019 Universal Disability Access Symbols

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UNIVERSAL DISABILITY ACCESS SYMBOLS

Access forIndividuals WhoAre Blind or HaveLow Vision

This symbol may be used to indicate access for peoplewho are blind or have low vision, including: a guidedtour, a path to a nature trail or a scent garden in a park;and a tactile tour or a museum exhibition that may betouched. (For other than Print or Braille)

Symbol forAccessibility

The wheelchair symbol should only be used to indicateaccess for individuals with limited mobility includingwheelchair users. For example, the symbol is used toindicate an accessible entrance, bathroom or that aphone is lowered for wheelchair users. Remember thata ramped entrance is not completely accessible if thereare no curb cuts, and an elevator is not accessible if itcan only be reached via steps.

Ramps Ramps are essential for wheelchair users if elevators orlifts are not available to connect different levels.However, some people who use walking aids havedifficulty with ramps and prefer stairs. Although rampslopes between 1:16 and 1:20 are preferred the rule ofthumb for constructing a ramp is 12" of length for everyinch of rise. The ability to manage an incline is related toboth its slope and its length. Wheelchair users withdisabilities affecting their arms or with low stamina haveserious difficulty using inclines. In fact many ambulatorypeople and most people who use wheelchairs canmanage a slope of even 1:16.

Sign LanguageInterpretation

The symbol indicates that Sign Language Interpretationis provided for a lecture, tour, film, performance,conference or other program.

Assistive ListeningSystems

These systems transmit amplified sound via hearingaids, headsets or other devices. They include infrared,loop and FM systems. Portable systems may beavailable from the same audiovisual equipmentsuppliers that service conferences and meetings.

Volume ControlTelephone

This symbol indicates the location of telephones thathave handsets with amplified sound and/or adjustablevolume controls.