Disclaimer
H&R Ventures Pty Ltd (trading as Alacrity Business Solutions and providing services through the Blue Mountains Online website) warrants that meeting most or all of the requirements referred to in this checklist does not constitute that the property meets Australian or international standards. Nor does it mean that the property and or its owners and managers are in any way protected from action by any person in the Human Rights & Equal Opportunity Commission under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
Copyright
The questionaire has been compiled by John Little and Suzanne Colbert. Intellectual property and copyright remains the property of John Little and Suzanne Colbert. All rights reserved.
Relevant Facts
- 1 in 5 Australians has a disability, at age 55 and over this proportion climbs to 1 in 3
- Australians with a disability have more than $26 billion of annual disposable income
- More than 1 million people with a disability holiday in Australia every year
- Disability doesn’t only mean being a wheelchair user, but people with disability affecting their mobility are the most likely to seek fully accessible accommodation.
Some useful hints for designers, builders and renovators when considering accessibility for people with a disability
- When designing or redesigning a kitchen, make sure the aisles are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
- Sink depth can be an important consideration if the user is in a wheelchair. Some manufacturers provide sinks that are not as deep as standard models.
- Taps with extended handles and spouts are readily available in many styles and colors. Taps should be within easy reach and easily operable with one hand. For individuals with limited use of their hands or who have limited strength, taps equipped with electronic sensors are designed to automatically turn water on and off.
- Cooktops and stoves can be installed at a height that is good for either standing or sitting.
- If a person is partially blind, selecting a cooktop that has contrasting colors, such as light surface and dark burners, will help distinguish between hot areas.
- Sliding cabinet doors work better for people seated in a wheelchair.
- If you are remodeling consider adjusting some of the work surfaces to a 75cm height rather all at a standard. This will aid a person who is seated or a child who may want to help out in the kitchen. It is also good for those who suffer with back problems or have limited reach.
- Countertops with rounded edges can reduce injury if someone should happen to fall or bump into them.
- Wall coverings can be used to distinguish between areas. Bright colors are helpful for people who have limited vision or limited depth perception to distinguish between walls, cabinets, doorways, etc.
- Motion sensors and timers can be used to turn lights off and on. This is especially helpful for those who have difficulties with reaching.
Websites for reference
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