ACCESSIBLE ROUTES

The concepts of ‘approachability’, ‘accessibility’ and ‘usability’ as outlined below are commonly applied when considering if a publicly accessible building is in-fact providing an ‘Accessible Route’ as required by the NZ Building Code.

Approachability

• Carparking and drop off zones

• Road crossings and kerb ramps

• Streetside connections

• Footpath width, pathways and traverse gradients

• Ramping

• Street furniture / obstructions

Accessibility

• Entrances

• Clear widths of doorways

• Route within building to usable areas

• Clear widths of corridors

• Stairs and landings

• Lifts and lift locations         

• Toilet cubicle numbers and locations

Usability

• Lift size, alerts, controls

• Location of doors, and space layout

• Usable door handles and closers

• Size shape and height for controls/switches

• Usable taps and hot water protection

• Toilet cubicle size and fitout

• Staff facilities/amenities

Just having one component of these aspects designed or built in a non-accessible way can be potentially disabling to a user of the building. Something as simple as the type of a door handle can be make or break in terms of independent usability of a building for a person with a disability.

Strawbridge Accessibly provides a comprehensive review approach to ensure that the items required for a building to be considered ‘accessible’ are provided within a design. Our knowledge of the NZBC, its Acceptable Solutions, and MBIE determinations are an asset to any projects team.

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This page is demonstrative only, and has been simplified for that purpose

It does not constitute design or compliance advice