Imprint
Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgements
About the
Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation
1 Introduction
2 Overview
2.1 Inclusive design and environmental access
2.2 Principles of Universal Design
3
Wayfinding design principles
3.1 Wayfinding
maps
4 General checklist of wayfinding
requirements
5 Audit templates
6
External wayfinding site survey and checklist
6.1 Mode
of transport
6.2 Obstructions and visual
clutter
6.3 Landmarks
6.4 Entrances
6.5 Directional
signs
6.6 Locational signs
6.7 Maps
6.8 Directory board
6.9 Staff
assistance — information desk
6.10 Telephone
assistance — information desk
7 Internal wayfinding site
survey and checklist
7.1 Architectural clues (built
environment design)
7.2 Graphic
communication
7.3 Audible communication
7.4 Tactile communication
8
References
9 Glossary
Appendix A
Appendix B
B1.1 Signage hierarchical structure
B1.2 Sign hierarchy example
B1.3 Sign legibility
B1.4
System design criteria
Appendix C
C1.1 Types of signs
C1.2
Identification signs
C1.3 Information
signs
C1.4 Directional signs
C1.5 Safety, regulatory, prohibition and advisory
signs
Recommended reading
© Icon.Net Pty Ltd 2007
Cooperative Research Centre for Construction
Innovation
L Block, Level 9, QUT Gardens Point 2 George Street,
Brisbane, Qld, Australia 4000
Telephone: +61 7 3138 9291
Email: enquiries@construction-innovation.info
Web:
www.construction-innovation.info
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The authors, the Cooperative Research Centre for
Construction Innovation, Icon.Net Pty Ltd, and their respective boards,
stakeholders, officers, employees and agents make no representation or warranty
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extent permissible by law, the aforementioned persons exclude all implied
conditions or warranties and disclaim all liability for any loss or damage or
other consequences howsoever arising from the use of the information in this
book.
In particular, and to avoid doubt, the use of the system audit does not:
guarantee acceptance or accreditation of a design, material or building solution
by any entity authorised to do so under any laws. Mean that a design, material
or building solution complies with the Building Code of Australia.
Absolve
the user from complying with any Local, State, and Territory or Australian
Government legal requirements.
First published 2007 by Cooperative Research
Centre for Construction Innovation, for Icon.Net Pty Ltd.
Cover
images © Queensland Department of Public Works
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It is generally taken for granted that people are aware of their surroundings
and can navigate from one place to another. However, for an individual with a
disability finding your way in often complex surroundings can be difficult.
The Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation
leads a collaboration of committed research professionals to develop a number of
wayfinding solutions — creating a more accessible, more inclusive built
environment.
The team comprises representatives from the Department of
Public Works; the Building Commission, Victoria; the Australian Building Codes
Board; the Queensland University of Technology and the CSIRO, as well as other
interested individuals.
The team’s work was recognised with a 2007
Disability Action Week Award, and their latest research has resulted in this
significant and practical booklet. The inclusive design principles, techniques,
strategies and solutions will help resolve problems associated with wayfinding,
not only for people with a disability but also for the whole community.
I commend this book to you.
Honourable Rob Schwarten
MP
Minister for Public Works, Housing and Information and Communication
Technology
The Disability Services Act 2006 aims to ensure that the
conditions of everyday life for people with a disability are the same as, or as
close as possible, to the conditions enjoyed by the general
community.
This Wayfinding system audit booklet is an important resource
that includes a design audit and checklist to help designers, developers,
property owners and managers do their part in improving access to buildings,
properties and spaces for all people.
It complements a range of
strategies which have been introduced by the Queensland Government which aim to
enhance people’s ability to participate fully in their communities.
It
is my pleasure to support this very practical booklet which offers people with a
disability real solutions
for wayfinding through their community, and I
commend it to you.
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr MP
Minister for
Communities, Disability Services, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Partnerships, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
Construction Innovation looks forward to continuing to provide practical outcomes of benefit to the community and enhancing the future of the Australian construction industry.
John McCarthy
Chair
CRC for Construction Innovation
Dr Keith Hampson
Chief Executive Officer
CRC for Construction
Innovation
Wayfinding system audit compiled by Ron Apelt, John Crawford and
Dennis Hogan is based on the outcomes of the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC)
for Construction Innovation project documented in the research report
Wayfinding in the Built Environment.
Without the financial and collaborative efforts bringing together such teams, this valuable report could not have been successfully delivered to our industry.
The Wayfinding project participants would like to thank and acknowledge
Colleen Foelz (Communication and publications, CRC for Construction
Innovation) for the management of this publication.
Disability Services Queensland
There are three research areas:
Program A: Business and Industry
Development
Program B: Sustainable Built Assets
Program C: Delivery and
Management of Built Assets.
Underpinning these research programs is an Information Communication
Technology (ICT) Platform
Construction Innovation’s future research
activities will build upon our strengths in sustainability, digital modelling,
safety and improved project delivery. With increased industry engagement and
support from its partners, this CRC is recognised for our unique role in
providing leadership of industry-wide research and development. We are committed
to continuing to provide valuable outcomes for Australian industry through
applied research, education and technology transfer for the future.
This Wayfinding system audit booklet is a practical and comprehensive
approach to wayfinding, using an inclusive design approach. It includes a
‘design audit and checklist’ to assist designers, developers and property owners
and managers identify ways to improve access to, into and through new or
existing properties, particularly buildings and large complex facilities and
particularly for people who are blind or vision impaired.
The system
audit is intended to be flexible in the context of the built environment.
Designers can use the inclusive design methodology and the principles,
techniques, strategies and solutions to resolve contextual design problems to
benefit all users.
Wayfinding design principles have universal
application — this document can be used from a number of perspectives including
applying wayfinding systems for pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, building
occupants and local and international visitors.
The checklist and
guidance notes are not a substitute code for the Building Code of Australia
(BCA), Australian Standard AS1428 or the pending Draft Disability Standards for
Access to Premises (Premises Standard).
The BCA, AS1428 and other
Australian Standards are the relevant codes and standard requirements for all
new building work. References to the BCA and AS1428 and other Australian
Standards give the decision maker the relevant technical information to assist
them to develop successful wayfinding systems.
This Wayfinding system
audit document is structured in the following parts:
1. Introduction
2.
Overview
3. Wayfinding design principles
4. General checklist of
wayfinding requirements
5. Wayfinding audit templates
6. External
wayfinding site survey and checklist
7. Internal wayfinding site survey and
checklist
8. References
9. Glossary
Appendix A
Appendix
B
Appendix C
Recommended reading
Wayfinding is about effective communication, and relies on a succession of
communication clues delivered through our sensory system of visual, audible,
tactile and olfactory elements. There are four primary wayfinding elements:
architectural, graphic, audible, and tactile communication. In addition, clues
such as culinary aromas from coffee shops, restaurants and aromatic plants and
flowers are useful as navigational aids for people who are blind or vision
impaired.
In Building Guidelines for Mental Health Facilities
(1996), Queensland Health notes wayfinding as:
The ease with which one proceeds and is facilitated through an environment from one point of interest to another. Wayfinding systems include such components as basic layout of building and site, interior and exterior landmarks, views to outside, signs, floor and room numbering, spoken directions, maps, directories, logical progression of spaces, colour coding.
The US Department of Education’s National Institute on Disability and
Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) (2001) advises:
Wayfinding refers to techniques used by people who are blind or visually impaired as they move from place to place independently and safely. Wayfinding is typically divided into two categories: orientation and mobility. Orientation concerns the ability for one to monitor his or her position in relationship to the environment; and mobility refers to one’s ability to travel safely, detecting and avoiding obstacles and other potential hazards. In general terms, wayfinding is the ability to: know where you are, where you are headed, and how best to get there; recognize when you have reached your destination; and find your way out — all accomplished in a safe and independent manner.Any visual wayfinding system is more than just signs — it encompasses architecture, landscape architecture, lighting, and landmarks and orientation points. The design of spaces should assist users with spatial problem-solving by providing consistent clues.
Wayfinding systems are measured by how users experience an environment and
how the communicative elements facilitate getting from point A to point B.
Wayfinding systems should reassure users, create a welcoming and enjoyable
environment and, ideally, provide answers to potential queries before users have
to ask for assistance. Wayfinding systems can also indicate where users should
not go.
A successful wayfinding system should provide information for users
to:
Return to contents
2.1 Inclusive design and environmental access
The Center for
Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (CIDEA, 2001), New York, states:
Wayfinding is the organization and communication of our dynamic relationship to space and the environment.
CIDEA (2001) discusses the importance of structuring a wayfinding system around the design of spaces. Wayfinding requires designers to organise and communicate the dynamic relationships of space and the environment to allow people to:
Return to contents
2.2 Principles of Universal Design
The Principles of Universal
Design were developed by The Center for Universal Design (1997) in collaboration
with a consortium of universal design researchers and practitioners from across
the United States. The US Department of Education’s National Institute on
Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) funded the project. Appendix A
contains the Principles of Universal Design and guidelines of key elements that
should be present in a design that adheres to the principles, as shown on The
Center for Universal Design’s website.
The Principles of Universal Design
show that inclusive design can accommodate people with varying abilities.
The seven principles may be applied to evaluate existing designs, guide the design process and educate designers and consumers about the characteristics of more usable products and environments.
Following these principles leads to a non-discriminatory design approach and provides increased usability for everyone without the need for adaptation or specialised design.
Principle 1: Equitable use
The design is useful and marketable to people
with diverse abilities.
Principle 2: Flexibility in use
The design
accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and
abilities.
Principle 3: Simple and intuitive use
Use of the design is
easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language
skills or current concentration level.
Principle 4: Perceptible
information
The design communicates necessary information effectively to the
user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory
abilities.
Principle 5: Tolerance for error
The design minimises
hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended
actions.
Principle 6: Low physical effort
The design can be used
efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.
Principle 7:
Size and space for approach and use
Appropriate size and space is provided
for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’s body size,
posture or mobility.
Copyright © 1997 NC State University, The Center for Universal Design
3 Wayfinding design principles
Wayfinding design principles provide a structure to organise the environment into a spatial hierarchy capable of supporting wayfinding tasks.
The basic wayfinding design principles are as follows.
Location: State Library of Queensland and Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) at
Stanley Place, South Brisbane.
This map design and signage provides the
three major functions of basic map design principles: orientation or direction
(connectivity between present location and desired location); identification of
locations; and relevant information for further decision making. Note the use of
raised tactile lettering and braille, the ‘You are here’ graphics and the
identification of major attractions and public facilities. The physical
placement, installation and illumination of signage must be suitable for
everyone.
This sign was developed in 2006 as part of the Millennium Arts
Project at the Cultural Centre, an initiative of the Queensland Government
through Arts Queensland. The Millennium Arts Project at the Cultural Centre
included the construction of the new GoMA, redevelopment of the State Library of
Queensland and construction of associated infrastructure. Project Manager:
Department of Public Works.
Architects: Designed in association with Brisbane-based architectural firms Donovan Hill Peddle Thorp architects. The design was selected from the Millennium Library Project Architects Selection Competition (2001).
Architects: Architectus Sydney (Kerry and Lindsay Clare, 2002) were the
Design Directors for the winning entry of the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art
International Design Competition.
Access Consultant: Disability Access
Consultants Pty Ltd (Trevor Beardsmore)
Environmental Graphic Designer: Dot
Dash, Brisbane
Sign Contractor: Albert Smith Group, Brisbane
Managing
Contractor: Bovis Lend Lease
Photography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March
2007
Copyright: Department of Public Works.
Return to contents
4 General checklist of wayfinding requirements
This checklist and guidance notes are compiled and adapted from a number of
expert sources including architects, landscape architects, lawyers, engineers,
building surveyors, building regulators, access consultants, local expertise and
people with a disability. Where possible, the notes also link to various
Australian Standards and relevant parts of the Building Code of Australia
(BCA).
Literature and internet searches were based on keywords such as
‘wayfinding’, ‘universal design’, ‘signage’ and ‘accessibility’.
The
document particularly draws on Lynch (1960); Pollet and Haskell (1979); Lam and
Ripman (1992); Passini (1992); Muhlhausen (2000); Royal Blind Society (2003)
Levine (2003) and Berger (2005).
The Wayfinding system audit acknowledges
these individuals and organisations for their contribution in improving
wayfinding in the built environment.
Wayfinding systems are more than just
signs; they encompass architecture, landscape architecture, interior design,
lighting and cognitive landmarks or orientation points. The design of spaces
should assist users with spatial problem solving by providing consistent
clues.
There are four main communicative wayfinding elements or criteria,
commonly referred to as ‘clues’: architectural, graphic, audible, and tactile
communication.
The clues do overlap; however, as a ‘thinking and decision
tool’ each of the main elements can be broken down into a collection of
questions.
The BCA provides a useful framework to ensure wayfinding
devices and systems are implemented into a building or development projects.
Historically, the BCA has principally dealt with health and safety and health
and safety amenity issues. However, it has progressively developed to
incorporate issues such as building functionality, including energy efficiency
and access for people with disabilities.
The following general checklist
and guidance notes identify elements that are often forgotten when planning and
designing buildings, public outdoor urban spaces and natural outdoor
environments, especially for people who have a disability.
The checklist
and guidance notes emphasise new buildings and the immediate spaces surrounding
the buildings. However, the design principles remain constant regardless of the
type of space or place. They can also be applied to upgrading projects to
improve wayfinding around large complexes such as university campuses, hospitals
and schools. The checklist and guidance notes are also easily transferable to
urban spaces like malls and shopping centres.
Location: Southbank Parklands, South
Brisbane
The Arbour, covered in vibrant magenta bougainvillea plants,
acts as a spine through the centre of the parklands for one kilometre, leading
the way to the parklands’ many attractions. This environmental design guidance
feature (horticultural and landscape architectural design feature) enables
visitors to orientate themselves from many locations within the parklands.
Although not marked as a universal accessway, it is a clearly dedicated and
marked route within the public domain that distinguishes its importance as a
public right of way.
Master Planner: Denton Corker Marshall, Architecture
and Urban Design, Melbourne
Photography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March
2007
Copyright: Department of Public Works.
Location: Southbank Parklands, South Brisbane
Along the Arbour, amid
the canopy of the bougainvillea, is a ribbon of yellow steel that provides shade
and weather protection, but also acts as a recognised landmark (marker),
identifying the adjacent places of the riverside restaurants, cafes and Suncorp
Piazza. Shade and shelter are important environmental design guidance
features.
Master Planner: Denton Corker Marshall, Architecture and Urban
Design, Melbourne
Photography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007
Copyright:
Department of Public Works.
Location: Brisbane Square, George and Adelaide Streets, North
Quay
This sign acts as a recognised landmark (marker) within the
streetscape, identifying one of the entries to Brisbane Square and the community
assets of the Brisbane City Council Library and Brisbane City Council Customer
Service Centre. The marker provides important information for visitors to the
square. The map design uses raised tactile lettering and braille, ‘You are here’
graphics and shows the direction of the major building attractions. Note the use
of TGSIs at the base on the sign. The TGSIs form part of a designed tactile
wayfinding trail, also referred to as a ‘tactile guide pathway’.
TGSIs are
important to assist in safe wayfinding; however, they should not be over-used or
over-prescribed. Designers should make full use of the range of environmental
guidance features available to minimise inconvenience to other members of the
community.
Brisbane Square Architect: Denton Corker Marshall Architecture
and Urban Design, Melbourne Access Consultants (External): Andrew Sanderson of
Blythe-Sanderson Group, Melbourne Access Consultants (Internal and Brisbane City
Council External Adviser): John Deshon of John Deshon Pty Ltd
Environmental
Graphic Designer: Dot Dash, Brisbane
Signage Contractor: K-Vee Signs,
Brisbane
Design and Construct Contractor: Baulderstone
Hornibrook
Photography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007
Copyright:
Department of Public Works.
Location: Brisbane Square, North Quay
This arrangement of tactile
ground surface indicators (TGSI), directional and warning (decision-making)
tactile tiles, provides a direction of travel to what is commonly referred to as
a ‘shoreline’, the building’s edge or a physical property edge. Note the
unobstructed space along the length of the wall. Where the TGSI is an integrated
unit, it should have a minimum luminance contrast of 30% compared to the amount
of light reflected from the surface of the adjacent path of travel. A shoreline
must be free of obstacles that could interrupt the continuous path of
travel. A minimum obstacle-free space should be 2000 mm x 1500 mm (height
x width) adjacent to the shoreline.
Brisbane Square Architect: Denton
Corker Marshall Architecture and Urban Design, Melbourne Access Consultants
(External): Andrew Sanderson of Blythe-Sanderson Group, Melbourne Access
Consultants (Internal and Brisbane City Council External Adviser): John Deshon
of John Deshon Pty Ltd
Environmental Graphic Designer: Dot Dash,
Brisbane
Signage Contractor: K-Vee Signs, Brisbane
Design and Construct
Contractor: Baulderstone Hornibrook
Photography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March
2007
Copyright: Department of Public Works.
Location: Brisbane Square, North
Quay
A shoreline is a very effective device that can be easily
accommodated by not placing street furniture such as seats, rubbish bins, and
signage or drink fountains within the dedicated accessway. This zone can easily
be marked as a universal accessway, reminding users of the importance of an
unobstructed space along the length of the path of travel.
Figures 5 and
6: Brisbane Square Architect: Denton Corker Marshall Architecture and Urban
Design, Melbourne Access Consultants (External): Andrew Sanderson of
Blythe-Sanderson Group, Melbourne Access Consultants (Internal and Brisbane City
Council External Adviser): John Deshon of John Deshon Pty Ltd
Environmental
Graphic Designer: Dot Dash, Brisbane
Signage Contractor: K-Vee Signs,
Brisbane.
Design and Construct Contractor: Baulderstone
Hornibrook
Photography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007
Copyright:
Department of Public Works.
Completed by:
Time:
Date:
Is the decision point internal or external:
Survey sheet or decision point number:
Complete the following pages at each decision point along the route you are surveying. Describe where you are or insert a plan or sketch below. Mark your position on it. Indicate with arrows the route you follow. Orientate plan or sketch for reference and record purposes.
Return to contents
6 External wayfinding site survey and checklist
6.1 Mode of transport
1. What mode of transport did you use to reach
your destination?
6.2 Obstructions and visual clutter
2. Do any elements make it difficult to see the route or sign
system?
Yes or No.
If yes, please describe: (e.g. the route or sign
is obscured)
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent:
Please provide further comments:
or, please indicate the obstruction:
6.3 Landmarks
3. Are there any prominent landmarks to use to
remember the location or route?
6.4 Entrances
4. Is there a building or entrance clearly visible
from this decision point?
Yes or No:
If yes, which entrance is
identifiable?
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Please provide further comments:
(e.g. ‘This way to lifts’.)
5. Is a directional sign visible at this
decision point?
Yes or No:
If yes, Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1
being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
If no, go to question 10.
6. Is the text legible from this decision point?
Yes or No:
Please rate
on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
7. Is your destination mentioned?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of
1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
8. Is the direction indicated clearly?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a
scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
9. Is the sign positioned in an appropriate location where the information is
needed?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being
unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
Please provide further comments:
6.6 Locational signs
(e.g. ‘Garden Forecourt’, ‘Swiss Plaza’)
10.
Is a locational sign visible at this decision point?
Yes or No:
If yes,
please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
If no: go to question 14
11. Is the text legible from this decision point?
Yes or No:
Please
rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
12. Is it clear which building or location the sign is referring to?
Yes
or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5
being excellent:
13. Is the sign positioned in a location where the information is
needed?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being
unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
Please provide further comments:
15. Does the map actually show where you are?
Yes or No:
Please rate on
a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
16. Does the map make the site or building easy to understand?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
17. Is your destination mentioned on the map?
Yes or No:
Please rate on
a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
18.
Is the map positioned where the information is needed?
Yes or No:
Please
rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
Please provide further comments:
(e.g. list of building tenants, list of hospital wards)
19. Is a
directory board visible at this decision point?
Yes or No:
If yes, please
rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
If No: go to question 24
20. Is the text legible from this decision point?
Yes or No:
Please
rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
21. Is your destination mentioned?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of
1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
22. Is it easy to find your destination on the directory board?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
23. Is the sign positioned in a location where the information is
needed?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being
unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
Please provide further comments:
25. Are staff at this decision point available to answer questions about
directions?
Yes or No:
If No: go to question 28
If yes, ask for
directions.
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and
5 being excellent:
26. Were the directions clear and easy to follow?
Yes or No:
Please
rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being excellent:
27. Did the staff offer to escort you to your destination?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
Please provide further comments:
29. Were the directions given clear and easy to follow?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
30. Did the staff offer to escort you to your destination?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory and 5 being
excellent:
Please provide further comments:
2. Is convenient on-site parking available?
Yes or No:
Comment:
3. Are car parking spaces available for people with disabilities?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3.5: ‘Car parking must comply with AS2890.1, part 1: Off-street car parking and AS2890.6, part 6: Off-street parking for people with disabilities’.
4. Is there an accessible walkway to each entry point?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements part D3.3: Parts of buildings to be accessible: ‘Access, finishes and fittings, including passageways, ramps, step ramps or kerb ramps, signs, doorways and other parts of the building required by this part of the Code must comply with the provisions of the AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work’.
5. Are automatic opening doors at the building entry point?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements of AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work and clause 7: Doorways, Doors and Circulation Space at Doorways, 7.3.3 Automatic doors.
6. Do the access and egress points comply with the BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements for safe, equitable and dignified access to a building, to the services and facilities within a building, and to safeguard occupants of the building from illness or injury while evacuating in an emergency?BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirement, part D3.3 Parts of buildings to be accessible: ‘Access, finishes and fittings, including passageways, ramps, step ramps or kerb ramps, signs, doorways and other parts of the building required by this part must comply with the provisions of the AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, clause 7: Doorways, Doors and Circulation Space at Doorways: ‘where an entrance is not required to be accessible, a sign directing people with disabilities to accessible entrances shall be installed’.
7. .Is there an inbuilt communication system for entry, information,
entertainment or a service suitable for occupants who are hearing
impaired?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3.7: Hearing augmentation and the AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, clause 16: Hearing Augmentation Listening Systems.
8. Are lighting, floor coverings and architectural finishes consistent in
primary public corridor areas?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work and AS1680.0 Interior lighting, part 0: Safe movement, Appendix A: Lighting for the Partially Sighted (Informative).
9. Are there memorable ‘landmarks’ along the corridors and at key decision
points?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
10. Are the public waiting areas to the side of main corridors and are they
visually ‘open’?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
11. .Are the public and non-public corridors distinguished easily by varied
finishes,
contrasting colours or lighting?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
12. Are the floors numbers aligned between connecting buildings?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3: Access for People with Disabilities and AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work.
13. Are the stairs, escalators, lifts, elevators, and travelators placed
within view of the main entries?
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Yes or No:
Comment:
AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, clause 8 Lifts: ‘Where required, lift facilities shall comply with the current AS1735.1: Lifts, escalators and moving walks, General requirements’.
14. Are the stair and step nosings highlighted for safety?
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3: Access for People with Disabilities and AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work.
15. Are the lifts designed for people who are vision impaired or hearing
impaired?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, clause
8 Lifts: ‘Where required, lift facilities shall comply with the current AS
1735.1 Lifts, escalators and moving walks, General requirements’.
16. Are tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) used appropriately at the
top and bottom of stairs and ramps? BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3.8: Tactile Ground
Surface Indicators (TGSIs). Refer also to AS1428.4 Design for access and
mobility, part 4: Tactile indicators: ‘In all public buildings, warning TGSIs
are to be installed at stairways, ramps, escalators, lifts and near any obstacle
located at head height’. 17. Is there adequate contrast between the doorway glazing and the side
glazing of walls? BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3: Access for People with
Disabilities and AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New
building work, Clause 7.5: Glazing and AS1288 Glass in buildings — Selection and
installation, section 5: Criteria for Human Impact Safety. 18. Are the interior colour schemes helpful for people who are vision
impaired to find their way around the building? 19. Are the interior colour schemes helpful for people with other impairments
(cognitive disorders, language differences etc) to find their way around the
building? 20. Is there sufficient luminance contrast between walls and floors? 21. Is there sufficient luminance contrast between doors and walls? 22. Is there sufficient luminance contrast or textural contrast between the
furniture and the surrounding surfaces? 23. Is there sufficient luminance contrast between sign text and sign
background? 24. Is there sufficient variation in texture to help people follow
routes? 25. Are matt finishes applied to prevent glare and confusing
reflections? 26. Do free-standing objects have sufficient luminance contrast with
background colour to stop users tripping over them? 27. In conference rooms, meeting rooms and auditoriums is the lighting
adequately focused? Current AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building
work, clause 17: Lighting for People with Hearing Impairment. 28. Is there adequate signage complying with AS1428.1? Current AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building
work, clause 14: Signs Indicating Access for People with Disabilities 1. Are the names for all facilities, services and displays standardised and
consistent? 2. Are the names for buildings and services standardised? 3. Are the signs legible? AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, clause
14: Signs Indicating Access for People with Disabilities 4. Has luminance contrast criteria between lettering and background been
applied? AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work,
Appendix D. 5. Is sign placement consistent? 6. Have the ‘viewing distance to signage’ criteria been applied? 7. Are signs positioned between heights of 1200 mm to 1600 mm above ground or
floor level to assist people who are vision impaired or mobility
impaired? 8. Are signs located on fixed wall panelling beside rather than on opening
doors? 9. Are standardised ‘You are here’ maps or floor plans suitably located near
the entry to the building or floors? 10. Do the ‘You are here’ maps or floor plans incorporate raised tactile
lettering or braille? 11. Are the ‘You are here’ maps or floor plans correctly oriented in relation
to the building layout? 12. Are the ‘You are here’ maps or floor plans placed at all entrances and
major decision points? 13. Do the locational maps or floor plans provide sufficient detail? 14. Have standardised pictograms or symbols (with words) been used to
describe ‘Fire Exits’, ‘Toilets’, ‘Carers’ Room’ etc.? BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part E3: Lift Installations and
part E4: Emergency Lighting, Exit Signs and Warning Systems, particularly clause
E4.4: Design and operation of emergency lighting, clause E4.5: Exit signs and
clause E4.6: Direction signs. Emergency lighting systems must comply with
AS2293.1 Emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings, part 1: System
design, installation and operation. 15. Has a visual barrier been applied on fully glazed doors and
sidelights? BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3: Access for People with
Disabilities and AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New
building work, clause 7.5: Glazing. 16. Are the lifts buttons highlighted? AS1735.12 Lifts, escalators and moving walks, part 12: Facilities for persons
with disabilities, clause 7: Control buttons and clause 8.6: Provision in Lift
Cars. 17. Do the lifts buttons or control panel incorporate raised tactile
lettering or braille? AS1735.12 Lifts, escalators and moving walks, part 12: Facilities for persons
with disabilities, clause 7: Control buttons and section 8: Information. 18. Are lifts fitted with a sign to warn occupants not to use them during a
fire? BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part E3: Lift Installations and
part E4: Emergency Lighting, Exit Signs and Warning Systems, particularly E4.4:
Design and operation of emergency lighting, clause E4.5: Exit signs and clause
E4.6: Direction signs and the current AS 1735.12 Lifts, escalators and moving
walks, part 12: Facilities for persons with disabilities. 19. Are public and non-public areas colour coded to ensure easy recognition
of public Generally, all audible communication must comply with the BCA Section D
Access and Egress Requirements, part D3.7: Hearing augmentation and with
AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, clause
16:Hearing Augmentation Listening Systems.
The BCA defines ‘hearing augmentation’ as an inbuilt amplification system,
other than one used for emergency warning purposes only. Where hearing
augmentation is required, a listening system to assist people who are hearing
impaired should also be available. A sign indicating that an assistive hearing
device is available must be provided in accordance with the requirements for the
international symbol for deafness at the main doors to the enclosed space. Where
the listening system does not cover the total area of the enclosed space, the
boundaries of the area must also be designated.
Emergency warning and intercommunication systems must also comply where
applicable, with AS1670.4 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems
— System design, installation and commissioning, part 4: Sound systems and
intercom systems for emergency purposes and AS4428.4 Fire detection, warning,
control and intercom systems — Control and indicating equipment, part 4:
Intercommunication systems for emergency purposes. 1. Are audible tactile push-buttons used at the pedestrian crossings near the
building 2. Are information desks staffed by helpful attendants who are familiar with
the 3. Are there information self-help phones at unattended information
desks? 4. Do information desk staff use standardised names for all buildings and
services in their 5. Do all lifts have audible output? Current AS1735.12 Lifts, escalators and moving walks part 12: Facilities for
persons with disabilities, section 8: Information, particularly clause 8.1:
Automatic Audible Information and clause 8.5: Indication of Travel
Direction. 6. Is the audible output clear and sufficiently loud? 7. Is an audible emergency warning and intercommunication system installed in
the building? 8. Are infrared or talking signs at main entrances, facilities (such as
public transport sites) or at major decision points? 9. Are trigger devices required to activate the infrared or talking
signs? 10. Are audible location landmarks, such as water fountains, located at
entrances or major decision points? Generally, all tactile communication must comply with the BCA Section D
Access and Egress Requirements, part D3.8: Tactile Ground Surface Indicators
(TGSIs).
Refer to AS1428.4 Design for access and mobility, part 4: Tactile indicators.
All signage must comply with the provisions of AS1428.1, part 1: General
requirements for access — New building work, clause 14: Signs Indicating Access
for People with Disabilities. 1. Are ‘shorelines’ and ‘trails’ established between major destinations and
information areas? 2. Are the shorelines clear of all obstructions up to a height of 2000 mm
above ground 3. Are warning TGSIs installed at the top and bottom of stairs and
ramps? BCA Section D Access and Egress Requirements, part D3.8: Tactile Ground
Surface Indicators (TGSIs). 4. Are directional TGSIs used across open areas where no other tactile cueing
is available to identify, for example, mid-block crossings or bus stops? BCA, part D3.8: Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSIs). 5. Are tactile or braille signs between 1200 mm and 1600 mm above ground or
floor level to assist people who are vision impaired or mobility
impaired? 6. Are raised tactile or braille maps or floor plans at all entrances and
major decision points? 7. Do the lifts buttons incorporate raised tactile lettering or braille on
the control panel of the lift car? AS 1735.12 Lifts, escalators and moving walks, part 12: Facilities for
persons with disabilities, clause 7: Arditi, A. (2005). Effective Color Contrast: Designing for People with
Partial Sight and Color Deficiencies. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from Lighthouse
International http://www.lighthouse.org/color_contrast.htm
Australian Braille Authority (ABA). (various dates). Retrieved 20 March 2007
from http://www.e-bility.com/roundtable/aba/
and http://www.ebility.com/roundtable/aba/braillecodes_aust04.php
Australian Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, (2007), Disability
Rights, Access to buildings and services - draft guidelines and information,
Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights/buildings/guidelines.htm
Berger, C., (2005) Wayfinding: designing and implementing graphic
navigational systems, Blind Citizens Australia, (nd) Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.bca.org.au/Accessible_Environments_Signage_Specification.htm Center for Universal Design. (1997). Compiled by Connell, B.R., Jones, M.,
Mace, R., Mueller, J., Mullick, A., Ostroff, E., Sanford, J., Steinfeld, E.,
Story, M., Vanderheiden, G. The Principles of Universal Design. Version 2.0.
Raleigh, NC: North Carolina State University. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/about_ud/udprinciplestext.htm Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth). Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.comlaw.gov.au/ComLaw/Legislation/ActCompilation1.nsf/0/FA7B7B21EDC9BD68CA256FC0001C97D8?OpenDocument
Disability Rights Commission. (2006). Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.hreoc.gov.au/disability_rights/publications.html
Gregg B. & Signcorp Australasia. (2003). UTS Sign Standards Manual.
Sydney: University of Technology. Harry Williams prepared the original manual,
dated July 1996. This manual was expanded considerably by Minale Tattersfield
Bryce and Partners (MTB&P) in October 1998. Signcorp Australasia prepared an
upgrade of the existing UTS Signage Standards manual in September 2003.
Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.fmu.uts.edu.au/policies/Downloads/UTSSignStandards.pdf
Golledge, R.G. & Stimpson, R.J. (1997). Spatial Behaviour: a geographic
perspective. New York: The Guilford Press.
Ittens, J. (1974). The Art of Color: The Subjective Experience and Objective
Rationale of Color. John Wiley & Sons Inc
Ittens, J. (1970). The Elements of Color. John Wiley & Sons Inc
Jacobson R.D. (1998) Cognitive Mapping without Sight: Four Preliminary
Studies of Spatial Learning. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 18, pp.
289–305.
Lam W.M.C. & Ripman, C.H. (1992). Perception & Lighting as Formgivers
in Architecture. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold.
Levine, D. ed. (2003). The NYC Guidebook to Accessibility and Universal
Design. New York: Center for Inclusive Design & Environmental Access, -
(also referred to as Universal Design New York) University at Buffalo, The State
University of New York. Retrieved 17 November 2006 from http://home.nyc.gov/html/ddc/pdf/udny/udny2.pdf
Lynch, K. (1960). The Image of the City. Cambridge: MIT Press. Muhlhausen, J. (2000). Wayfinding is not signage: signage plays an important
part of wayfinding, but there’s more. Signs of the Times.
Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.signweb.com/index.php/channel/6/id/1433/
Passini, R. (1992). Wayfinding in Architecture. New York: Van Nostrand
Reinhold.
Pollet D. & Haskell P. C. (1979). Sign Systems for Libraries: Solving the
Wayfinding Problem. New York: R.R. Bowker Company.
PROWAAC. (2001). Public Rights-of-Way Access Advisory Committee (PROWAAC) for
the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board)
Final Report: referred to as an ‘Universal Access Corridor’ at p.161 Appendix H
Minority Report submitted by Hol’Lynn d’Lil What to Call the ‘Accessible Route’.
Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.access-board.gov/prowac/commrept/PROWreport.pdf
Queensland Health. (1996). Building Guidelines for Queensland Mental Health
Facilities. Brisbane: Queensland Government. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.health.qld.gov.au/cwamb/mhguide/1934B_GuideSec_2.pdf
Royal Blind Society of NSW and ACT. (2003). Accessible design recommendations
for people with vision impairment.
NHS Estates. (nd). Improving the Patient Experience Wayfinding. London:
Department of Health, UK Government. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://patientexperience.nhsestates.gov.uk/wayfinding/wf_content/home/home.asp
National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. (nd). Notice of
Proposed Funding Priorities for Fiscal Years 2001–2003 for three Disability and
Rehabilitation Research Projects. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/nidrr/index.html University of New South Wales. (nd). Buildings and Grounds, Signage and
Directory Boards, Signage Guidelines Part 6.0. Sydney: Barker, P., Barrick, J. & Wilson, R. (1995). Building sight: A handbook
of building and interior design solutions to include the needs of visually
impaired people. London: HMSO in association with Bright, K., ed. (1997). A design guide for the use of colour and contrast to
improve the built environment for visually impaired people. United Kingdom:
University of Reading.
Cook, G. & Bright, K. (2005). Colour and Luminance Contrast — What, Why,
How and When? Access Journal 18, Spring.
AS1428.1:2001 Design for access and mobility, part 1: General requirements
for access — New building work
AS1428.2:1992 Design for access and mobility, part 2: Enhanced and additional
requirements — Buildings and facilities
AS/NZS 1428.4:2002Design for access and mobility, part 4: Tactile indicators
AS1670.4: 2004 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems — System
design, installation and commissioning, part 4: Sound systems and intercom
systems for emergency purposes
AS/NZS1680.0:1998 Interior lighting, part 0: Safe movement
AS1735.1:2003 Lifts, escalators and moving walks, part 1: General
requirements
AS1735.12:1999 Lifts, escalators and moving walks, part 12: Facilities for
persons with disabilities
AS1744:1975 Standard alphabets for road signs — Metric units
AS2293.1:2005 Emergency escape lighting and exit signs for buildings, part 1:
System design, installation and operation
AS2700:1996 Colour Standards for general purposes
AS/NZS2890.1:2004 Parking facilities, part 1: Off-street car parking
AS2890.5:1993 Parking facilities, part 5: On-street parking
AS2899.1:1986 Public information symbol signs, part 1: General information
signs (withdrawn)
AS4428.4:2004 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems — Control
and indicating equipment Part 4: Intercommunication systems for emergency
purposes
Buildings or spaces with
features to permit use by people with disabilities. Reference: Building Code of
Australia (2007).
A continuous, accessible path of travel to, or within, a
building suitable for people with disabilities.
A short-range wireless specification for connecting mobile
products such as mobile computers, mobile phones, digital cameras and other
portable devices. Reference: CRC for Construction Innovation (2006)
A system of touch reading for people who are blind or vision
impaired that employs raised dots, evenly arranged in quadrangular letter spaces
or cells. Braille symbols are formed within units of space known as braille
cells. A full braille cell consists of six raised dots arranged in two parallel
rows, each having three dots. The dot positions are identified by numbers from
one to six. Sixty-four combinations are possible using one or more of these six
dots. A single cell can be used to represent a letter, number, punctuation mark
or a whole word.
When every letter of every word is expressed in braille, it is referred to as
Grade 1 braille (uncontracted).
Grade 2 braille uses a similar system of cells, either individually or in
combination with others, to form a variety of abbreviations and contractions or
whole words. Grade 2 braille is the more commonly used form in publications and
signage.
Australia inherited the British system of braille that is referred to as the
Unified English Braille Code (UEBC) Grade 1 braille. BR>Reference: Australian Braille Authority (ABA) website.
Braille signage is a specialist wayfinding device that
incorporates UEBC Grade 1 braille as a primary source of information for people
who are blind or vision impaired and may be enhanced with raised tactile
lettering, maps or pictorial images.
Some areas that may require special signs include:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes
or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
The face of presenters and interpreters should be
clearly visible without too many shadows for lip-reading and sign language
interpretation.
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:7.2 Graphic communication
Signs, maps, colour coding, banners, websites, directional, identification
and regulatory information are all examples of graphic communication.
Many signs are not legible when viewed from a
distance.
All
signage must comply with the provisions of AS1428.1, part 1: General
requirements for access — New building work, clause 14: Signs Indicating Access
for People with Disabilities.
The following recommendations can assist in the optimal readability
of signs.
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or
No:
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes
or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Where applicable, an emergency
warning and intercommunication system complying with AS1670.4 Fire detection,
warning, control and intercom systems — System design, installation and
commissioning, part 4: Sound systems and intercom systems for emergency purposes
must also comply with AS4428.4 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom
systems — Control and indicating equipment, part 4: Intercommunication systems
for emergency purposes.
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
and private space?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:7.3 Audible communication
Audible communication is undertaken through verbal instructions via PA
systems, talking signs, infrared signs and water fountains. These prompts may
assist people with perceptual or cognitive impairments.
or space?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
facility layout?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
verbal communications?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or
No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:7.4 Tactile communication
Tactile communication includes raised tactile letters, braille, TGSIs and
tactile kerbs, shorelines or trails between major destinations.
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
or floor level?
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Comment:
Refer to AS1428.4 Design for access and mobility,
part 4: Tactile indicators.
Yes
or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Yes or No:
Please rate on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being unsatisfactory
and 5 being excellent
Comment:
Control buttons, section 8: Information,
particularly section 8.3: Tactile Information.8 References
ADAS. (1999). Good Sign Practices. ADAS
in association with E. Collis, Eye Catch Signs Ltd Nova Scotia, Canada and I.
Peterson, Automated Disability Access Systems Brisbane and Melbourne Australia.
The original document was modified, with permission, for the Australian context
by B. Tolliday and I. Peterson, Brailliant Touch, Australia.
Mies; Hove, RotoVision.
Center
for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access. (2001). Universal Design New
York, 4.1C Wayfinding. New York: A City of New York Office of the Mayor
Publication, Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access, School of
Architecture and Planning. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.ap.buffalo.edu/idea/udny/index.htm
and http://www.ap.buffalo.edu/idea/udny/Section4-1c.htm
http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/about_ud/docs/use_guidelines.pdf
Systech
Signage Technology Braille Signage. (nd). Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.systech-signage.com/pages/braille.htm
University of New
South Wales, Facilities Department. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/Buildings/Signage_Standards.pdf
and http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/Buildings/signage.htmReference sources on lighting and the visual environment
International
Commission on Illumination. (1997). Low vision — Lighting needs for the
partially sighted. CIE Publication No. 123. Vienna: CIE.
Royal National Institute
for the Blind.
Technical references
Building Code of Australia 2007
AS1288:2006
Glass in buildings — Selection and installation
Australian StandardsBritish Standards
BS8501: 2002 Graphical symbols and signs. Public
information symbols
International Standards
ISO7001: 2007 Graphical symbols — Public
information symbols
Return to contents
9 Glossary
Reference: AS1428.1, part 1:
General requirements for access — New building work, Building Code of Australia
(2007).
This system of braille
is constantly being reviewed and upgraded.
Reference: Building Code of Australia (2007) and Royal Blind
Society (2003).
volume control telephones
An uninterrupted path of travel to, or within, a building providing access to all facilities. A continuous accessible path should not incorporate any step, stairway, turnstile, revolving door, escalator or other impediment that would prevent safe negotiation by people with disabilities.
Reference: AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, Building Code of Australia (2007).
Contrasting textures act as tactile markers that people can identify by touch. Examples include carpet matting on a vinyl floor surface, domed buttons on handrails to indicate the end of the stairway is approaching and TGSI at the top and bottom of stairs.
References: Building Code of Australia (2007) Section D3.8 Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI) and Royal Blind Society (2003).
Viewing any object involves the concept of ‘figure–ground relationship’ — the more an object contrasts with its surrounds, the more visible it is.
The concept of ‘figure–ground relationship’ also includes the relationship between ‘positive’ and ‘negative’ space and the effective use of colour combinations. Three basic guidelines for making effective colour choices rely on the three perceptual attributes of colour: hue, lightness and saturation.
Johannes Itten (1888-1967) is credited as one of the first people to define and identify strategies for successful colour combinations. The seven colour contrasts, originating from his colour theory are:
These seven colour contrasts for coordinating colours use the hues’ contrasting properties, not the colour’s physical and chemical properties. Primary colours, yellow, red and blue, produce the strongest contrasts.
Colour contrasts add other variations with the intensity of the hues. The colour contrast becomes weaker with secondary or tertiary colours or as the colour saturation decreases.
References: Arditi (2005), The Disability Rights Commission UK (2006) and Ittens (1974).
A condition or state of being broadly defined by the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth). The term includes physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual and neurological disabilities, physical disfigurement and the presence of organisms in the body causing, or capable of causing, disease.
Reference: Disability Discrimination Act (1992) Cwlth; Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) (2007).
Treating a person less favourably (on the basis of a disability that person has, may have, used to have or may have in the future) than a person without a disability, in the same circumstances or circumstances which are not materially different. Discrimination may be either direct or indirect.
Reference: Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth); Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) (2007).
Treating a person less favourably because of their disability, such as a policy where people with infectious diseases may not enrol at a particular institution.
Reference: Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth); Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) (2007).
refers to the upward direction on a map which must always show what is in front of the viewer.
Reference: Levine (2003).
A computer system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying spatial data related to positions on the earth’s surface. Typically, a GIS is used for handling maps, which might be represented as different layers where each layer holds data about a particular kind of feature, for example roads.
Reference: CRC for Construction Innovation (2006).
Satellite system providing information such as the latitude, longitude, altitude or elevation of any location.
Reference: CRC for Construction Innovation (2006).
A statutory authority responsible for administering a number of pieces of Commonwealth legislation relating to human rights and anti-discrimination. The Commission also acts as a decision-making tribunal for matters that cannot be conciliated. These decisions are made after the Commission holds formal inquiries.
Reference: CRC for Construction Innovation (2006).
Imposing a requirement or condition where people with disabilities are disproportionately unable to comply. For example, a student with a mobility disability, which affects their capacity to write, may argue that a requirement for all students to write their exam responses unassisted is indirect discrimination. As there are alternative ways of assessing a person’s knowledge, this requirement may not be reasonable and one where some students with disabilities are disproportionately unable to comply.
Reference: Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth); Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) (2007).
The luminous flux falling onto a surface area.
Reference: Building Code of Australia (2007).
Luminance contrast is described as the level of perceived lightness and brightness between one surface and another.
Luminance contrast is the amount of light reflected from one colour surface or component, compared to the amount of light reflected from the background or base colour surfaces under all lighting conditions including artificially lit (indoor) scenes, and naturally lit (outdoor) scenes in all natural weather conditions.
The measurement of luminance contrast is the difference between the luminance factors of the surfaces and comparing them under natural and artificial lighting conditions in all weather conditions for their legibility.
It has been shown that legibility is reasonably predicted by Richard Bowman’s algorithm now found in Australian Standards AS1428.1. This research was originally published in Bowman, R. (1999), Inadequate Colour Contrasts and Other Illuminating Considerations, Tile Today, Issue 23, May 1999, pp. 48, 49, 52, 54 and 56.
Luminance contrast is preferred to colour contrast alone. The use of
luminance contrast is very helpful to assist people who are vision impaired to
locate important aspects of a building such as doorways, signs, handrails,
shorelines, hazards and objects of interest. Luminance contrast can also be used
to highlight potential hazards such as the edges of steps or a roadway.
Reference: AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New building
work, Appendix D, and Royal Blind Society (2003).
AS1428.1, part 1: General
requirements for access — New building work, Appendix D
— Luminance Contrast
states:
The luminance contrast is obtained by measuring the luminance factor of the surfaces and comparing them under natural and artificial lighting conditions and all weather conditions. For the purpose of this Standard, the luminance contrast differential is 0.3 or 30%. The following equation is used:Luminance contrast and signage: With signs, contrast is the measured relationship between the luminance of the area of interest and that of its immediate background.
C (Luminance Contrast) = (L2 − L1) / 0.5 (L1 + L2)
(where L1 and L2 are the luminance values).
Luminance factor is the ratio of the luminance of a surface to that of an ideal white diffusing surface when illuminated and viewed under the same conditions and viewing geometry.
Luminance factor is expressed as a decimal in the range of 0 to 1.
The unit measure for luminance is candelas divided by square metres. (cs/m
squared).
Note: Lux is the unit measure of illuminance and is the key measure
of lighting and visibility. Illuminance of an object or surface is the amount of
light that is incident or falling onto a surface. The optical perception is
actually what is reflected or emitted from that surface. In other words it is
the optical brightness or luminance.
A shoreline is a detectable outline along, or around,
part or all of a building. A trail is a linear path of travel, or designated
corridor, such as building frontages and pathways.
Reference: CRC for
Construction Innovation (2006).
Tactile means information and interpretations derived from the sense
of touch. This involves sensory transfer through physical contact of the hands
or feet with other surfaces, as well as sensory transfers received by contact
with non-physical elements such as pressure, wind and temperature.
Reference: Adapted from CRC for Construction Innovation (2006).
Tactile signs incorporate raised text or symbols to enable touch-reading by blind people and touch enhancement of visual perception for people who are vision impaired.
Reference: AS1428.1–2001, part 1: General requirements for access — New building work.
TGSIs are areas of raised ground
surface texture treatments, designed to provide people who are vision impaired
with warning and directional orientation information. Typically, square tiles
with regular, raised patterns are laid in various groupings at key points to
indicate where ground levels or directions change.TGSIs should be provided at
the following locations:
Texture contrasting can also be helpful as tactile markers that people can identify by feel. Examples include carpet matting on a vinyl floor surface, and domed buttons on handrails to indicate the end of the stairway or ramp is approaching.
References: Building Code of Australia (2007) Section D Access and Egress Requirements D3.8 Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI) and Royal Blind Society (2003).
Unjustifiable hardship is the basis on which a
respondent can defend a complaint of disability discrimination.
The
respondent may argue that not to discriminate would impose an unjustifiable
hardship. In determining unjustifiable hardship, HREOC considers all the
circumstances of the particular case, including the benefits and detriment to
relevant persons, the effect of the disability, financial circumstances and any
action plan given to HREOC by the respondent.
Reference: Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth); Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) (2007).
A universal accessway (PROWAAC, 2001) provides a continuous accessible path of travel that is a dedicated and marked route clearly distinguishing its importance as a public right of way. A universal access way:
As a guideline dimension for an external universal accessway, the space should have an optimum minimum vertical and horizontal clearance of 2000 mm. Wherever possible, an all-weather cover is recommended to and from a building, but it is essential that an all-weather cover is placed at the building entrance.
Viewing distance is a concept that printing and signage industries use to capture attention for an image on display. Viewing distance is also closely aligned with the resolution and size of the image.
This concept of viewing distance requires an understanding of perspective theory as the resolution of the image and its detail is always taken from where the viewer is positioned and whether the viewer is standing, walking, sitting or viewing from a moving vehicle. The clarity of atmospherics such as light and shade and weather conditions play a part in viewing distance. Construction materials and the position of signs in space are also important.
The simple rule of viewing distance is that the closer a person is to an object, the higher the resolution of the image needs to be. The perception of the human eye varies from person to person, and some people are vision impaired so the only true viewing distance comparison is the distance at which most people can see the image or sign.
Lettering height depends on the importance of the sign, the architectural detail at the building entrance, the size of sign for its location and placement, as well as the distance it should be read at.
The literature varies on recommended minimum letter heights and viewing
distances. However, it is suggested that for sighted people, 50 mm
minimum
height for a maximum of 15 metres viewing distance is an acceptable standard for
visual legibility.
Some other suggested minimum letter heights for various sign types:
Vision impairment is any significant loss of sight.
Reference: Adapted from AS1428.4 part 4 Tactile indicators.
A reliable representation of this graph is not currently available in an accessible online form
Return to contentsThe signage hierarchy is depicted in the table below.
| Design elements | Meaning and content |
|---|---|
| Background colour, marketing image or overall presentation, text colours, luminance contrast, colour contrast. | Corporate or organisation's image, corporate colour scheme and style, sign system hierarchy, colour consistency as established by design protocol. |
| Maps, logos, pictograms, symbols and artwork. | Corporate or organisation's image, international symbols or pictograms, facility or building layout. |
| Text and directional arrows, tactile information, braille, signage information in multiple languages. | Tactile
signage incorporates raised text and symbols to enable touch-reading by people
who are blind and allow touch enhancement of visual perception for people who
are vision impaired. Braille signage is a specialist wayfinding device that incorporates Unified English Braille Code (UEBC) Grade 1 braille as a primary source of information for people who are blind or vision impaired and may be supplemented by raised tactile lettering, maps or pictorial images. |
Return to contents
ACT Government, Urban Services, Design Standards for Urban Infrastructure 25
Urban Park And Open Space Signage (n.d.), based on the Signage Policy for
Canberra Urban Parks and Places prepared by Minale Tattersfield Bryce &
Partners (July 2001) with technical advice from landscape architects Dorrough
Britz and Associates. Edition 1 Revision 0, Urban Services, Australian Capital
Territory Government. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.parksandplaces.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/28337/25_Urban_Park__and__Open_Space_Signage_Edition_1_Revision_0.pdf
and http://www.parksandplaces.act.gov.au/publicplaces/designstandards
ADAS
(1999), Good Sign Practices, in association with Collis, E., Eye Catch Signs
Ltd.Nova Scotia, Canada and Peterson, I., of Automated Disability Access
Systems, Brisbane and Melbourne Australia. With permission the original document
was modified for the Australian context by Tolliday, B. and Peterson, I.,
Brailliant Touch, PO Box 952, Buderim, 4556, Queensland,
Australia.
Arditi, A., PhD (2005), Making Text Legible: Designing for
People with Partial Sight, Lighthouse International, Retrieved 20 March 2007
from http://www.lighthouse.org/print_leg.htm
Barker,
P. and Fraser J. (2000), Sign Design Guide, JMU Access Partnership and Sign
Design Society, Royal National Institute of
the Blind, London.
CRC for
Construction Innovation (2006), Wayfinding in the Built Environment –
Reports (Stage 2, 3 – Final). Brisbane: Queensland University of Technology.
Retrieved from http://www.construction-innovation.info/index.php?id=956
University
of New South Wales (n.d.), Buildings and Grounds, Signage and Directory Boards,
Signage Guidelines Part 6.0, University of New South Wales, Facilities
Department. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/Buildings/Signage_Standards.pdf
and http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/Buildings/signage.htm
Vision
Australia (2006), Accessible Design for Public Buildings, Signage, Retrieved 20
March 2007 from http://www.rvib.org.au/info.aspx?page=721#Signage
CRC for Construction Innovation participants
Arup, Australian Building
Codes Board, Bovis Lend Lease, Brisbane City Council, Brookwater, Building
Commission, CSIRO, Curtin University of Technology, DEM, John Holland Group,
Queensland Department of Main Roads, Queensland Department of Public Works,
Queensland Department of State Development, Trade and Innovation, Queensland
University of Technology, RMIT University, Thiess, The University of
Newcastle, The University of Sydney, WA Department of Housing and Works, Woods
Bagot.