Week 7

This week had some very interesting material. It helped me to better understand how to make a facility better accessible for those who have hearing disabilities. Along with that we were also challenged to find different ways to make a facility for accessible for all types of disabilities. It was a very eye opening week.

This weeks video was, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGs0iqs0f_k&feature=youtu.be
It helped me learn a lot more about accessibility and hearing disabilities. I think it is a very helpful video because it goes over many different situations as well.

Along with that we were given some other information to help us this included:

How do I complete a self-evaluation and an accessibility plan?

Self-Evaluation Process-helps identify barriers that impede inclusion of people with disabilities

• List all Programs, services, and activities you provide
• Concisely describe each program, service, or activity.
• Collect and document the policies, procedures, and priorities that govern your day-to-day operation
1. Analyze how current policies, procedures, and practices (or lack thereof) affect or impact individuals with disabilities.
2. Determine if any barriers are physical and can be solved through nonstructural changes
3. Identify solutions to modify existing polices, procedures, and practices to allow for full inclusion of people with disabilities
4. Consult with interested persons, especially people with disabilities, on identified barriers and solutions, as well as other self-evaluation data.
5. Keep a copy of your self-evaluation on file.

Suggestions for Improving Access for People with Disabilities

Path of Travel

1. A pathway should connect separate buildings or activity areas within the same site
2. Designate parking for people with disabilities as close as possible to the accessible entrance
3. Securely anchor carpets and mats to floor surfaces
4. 36 inch wide paths

Doors

1. At inaccessible entrances, pace signs bearing the International Symbol of Accessibility and arrows indicating the location of the accessible entrance
2. Replace doorknobs with lever or loop handles
3. 32 inches minimum clearance

Stairs, Ramps, and Elevators

1. Hold meetings/events in spaces that do no requires stairs
2. Add nonslip treads to stairs
3. Ramps should be sloped at 1:12 or less.

Restrooms

1. Install a handle on the inside of the stall door
2. Provide knee space below the sink at 27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and 22 inches deep
3. Enlarge the stall to accommodate grab bars and an accessible toilet.
4. Provide a 5-foot turning space in the communal part of the restroom.
5. Dispensers should be 42 inches above the floor

Improving Accessibility for Visual Impairments

• Avoid reorganizing living areas
• Improve lighting within the facility
• Remove protruding objects
• Place handrails where needed
• Avoid installing solid glass doors
• Provide materials in Braille or on audiotapes if possible

Accessibility: Points to Remember

• Consider all types of disabilities
• Get input from people with disabilities
• Check with your state laws on access
• Functionality: approaching, entering, safety, and convenience
• New structures need to be fully accessible

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyYQ2P8WYx4

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/watch/ask-toh-doorbell-home-gym