accessibility guidelines

CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES

Diversity Our Strength

Contact us:

Diversity Management and Community Engagement Tel: (416) 392-8592Strategic and Corporate Policy / Healthy City Office Fax: (416) 696-3645Chief Administrator’s Office TTY: (416) 339-0889City Hall, 11th Floor East www.toronto.ca/diversity100 Queen Street West [email protected], ON M5H 2H2

City of Toronto Accessibility Plan: www.toronto.ca/diversity/accessibilityplan2003

This publication is available in alternative formats.

Message from the Chief Administrative Officer

I am pleased to present to you a new resource tool: the City of Toronto’s Accessibility DesignGuidelines. The Accessibility Design Guidelines can be used by all sectors to conduct accessibilityaudits and to plan developments as we work towards making Toronto a "barrier free" community.

Based on the human rights principles of respect, dignity and inclusion, the Guidelines are a keycomponent of the City’s Accessibility Plan and meet the City’s objectives under its Plan of Actionfor the Elimination of Racism and Discrimination. The Guidelines are also in keeping with theCity’s Official Plan which states, "A key city-building principle is that public buildings, parks andopen spaces should be open and accessible to all members of the public."

A multi-year implementation strategy to make City facilities accessible to persons with disabilitieswill be provided for City Council’s consideration later this year.

This resource guide is the result of the collaborative effort among community and professionalexperts working with City staff and Members of Council. I would like to express my appreciationto everyone involved in this project.

Shirley HoyChief Administrative Officer

April, 2004

CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES

2004

C I T Y O F T O R O N T O A C C E S S I B I L I T Y D E S I G N G U I D E L I N E S

INTRODUCTION I - III

PART I: EXTERIOR AREAS

1.1 Exterior Routes

1.1.1 Bridges with Pedestrian Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31.1.2 Crosswalks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31.1.3 Curb Ramps/Curb Cuts on Public Right of Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41.1.4 Grades and Elevation Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61.1.5 Guards and Handrails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71.1.6 Lay-Bys for Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71.1.7 Paths, Sidewalks and Walkways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81.1.8 Pedestrian Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91.1.9 Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101.1.10 Stairs and Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111.1.11 Traffic Islands on Public Right of Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

1.2 Arrival and Departure Areas

1.2.1 Accessible Routes to Entrances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131.2.2 Bus/Public Transit Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131.2.3 Bus Stops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141.2.4 Emergency Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141.2.5 Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141.2.6 Passenger Loading Zones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

1.3 Special Areas and Features

1.3.1 Amphitheatres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171.3.2 Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Spaces: Balconies and Terraces . .171.3.3 Boardwalks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181.3.4 Campgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181.3.5 Community Mailboxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191.3.6 Docks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201.3.7 Grandstands and Viewing Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .211.3.8 Outdoor Swimming Pools and Wading Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .221.3.9 Parks and Parkettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .241.3.10 Play Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251.3.11 Picnic Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .261.3.12 Sports, Fields, and Spectator Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .271.3.13 Terraces and Patios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .271.3.14 Trails and Footbridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281.3.15 Viewing Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281.3.16 Waterfront Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .291.3.17 Wilderness and Conservation Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

TABLE OF CONTENTS


1.4 Outdoor Amenities

1.4.1 Benches and Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301.4.2 Bicycle Racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301.4.3 Drinking Fountains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301.4.4 Mail Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .311.4.5 Public Showers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .311.4.6 Public Telephones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .311.4.7 Public Washrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .331.4.8 Street Furniture and Vending Machines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .331.4.9 Waste Receptacles and Recycling Bins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

1.5 Outdoor Support Systems

1.5.1 Crosswalk/Pedestrian Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .351.5.2 Lighting for Exterior Areas not including roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .361.5.3 Public Address Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .371.5.4 Signage and Way-Finding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .371.5.5 Snow-melting and Snow Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .381.5.6 Traffic Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

1.6 Other

1.6.1 Colour and Texture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .401.6.2 Construction Site Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .411.6.3 Freestanding Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .421.6.4 Garbage Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .431.6.5 Gates and Openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .431.6.6 Landscape Materials and Planting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .431.6.7 Materials and Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .441.6.8 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .451.6.9 Obstacle Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .451.6.10 Safety and Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .461.6.11 Snow Accumulation and Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

PART II: INDOOR AREAS

2.1 Entrances

2.1.1 Canopies and Weather Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .512.1.2 Doors and Doorways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .522.1.3 Door Hardware, Locks and Closers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .532.1.4 Entrances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .542.1.5 Glazed Screens and Sidelights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .552.1.6 Mats and Mat Sinkages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.1.7 Thresholds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.1.8 Vestibules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .572.1.9 Waiting Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57


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2.2 Interior Routes

2.2.1 Aisles and Passages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .582.2.2 Corridors and Hallways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .592.2.3 Doors and Doorways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602.2.4 Elevators and Platform Lifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .602.2.5 Interior Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .612.2.6 Safe Holding Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .622.2.7 Stairs and Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .632.2.8 Turnstiles and Control Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

2.3 Interior Amenities

2.3.1 Coat Closets and Coat Racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .642.3.2 Door and Cupboard Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .642.3.3 Drinking Fountains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .652.3.4 Equipment and Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .662.3.5 Information and Service Counters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672.3.6 Lockers and Baggage Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .672.3.7 Mail Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682.3.8 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .682.3.9 Platforms/Daises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692.3.10 Public Showers and Changing Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .692.3.11 Public Washrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .702.3.12 Vanities and Work Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .712.3.13 Vending Machines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .722.3.14 Washroom Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .732.3.15 Windows and Window Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

2.4 Interior Systems and Controls

2.4.1 Acoustics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .752.4.2 Audible Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .752.4.3 Automatic Door Openers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .762.4.4 Card Access Systems & Security Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .772.4.5 Communication Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .782.4.6 Controls and Operating Mechanisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .792.4.7 Electrical Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .802.4.8 Fire/Emergency Systems and Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .802.4.9 Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .812.4.10 Information Systems and Directories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .812.4.11 Artificial Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822.4.12 Natural Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822.4.13 Listening Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .822.4.14 Public Address Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .832.4.15 Telephones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .832.4.16 Signage and Way-finding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .842.4.17 Ticketing Machines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .862.4.18 Video Display Terminals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2.5 Special Facilities and Areas

2.5.1 Arenas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .882.5.2 ATM’s / Bank Machines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .892.5.3 Cafeterias, Restaurants, Dining Areas and Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .902.5.4 Churches and Places of Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .912.5.5 Office Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .922.5.6 Clinics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .922.5.7 Community Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .922.5.8 Courthouses and Detention Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .932.5.9 Displays, Exhibition Areas, Galleries, and Museums . . . . . . . . . . . . .932.5.10 Gymnasium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .942.5.11 Ice-Rinks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .942.5.12 Hospitals and Health Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .942.5.13 Libraries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .952.5.14 Long Term Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .962.5.15 Meeting Rooms, Assembly Areas, and Theatres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .972.5.16 Recreation Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .972.5.17 Schools and Continuing Education Centres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .982.5.18 Seniors Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .982.5.19 Residential Kitchens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .982.5.20 Residential Bathrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1002.5.21 Residential Bedrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1012.5.22 Shopping Centers and Malls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1012.5.23 Swimming Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1022.5.24 Theatres and Media Display Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1032.5.25 Transit Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104

2.6 Other

2.6.1 Texture and Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1062.6.2 Floor Surfaces/Textures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1062.6.3 Colour and Tone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1072.6.4 Fire and Life Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1072.6.5 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1092.6.6 Materials and Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1102.6.7 Obstacles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1102.6.8 Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1122.6.9 Glare and Light Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112

Appendix A: Acknowledgements

Appendix B: Definitions

Appendix C: Legislative Overview

Appendix D: Bibliography


TABLE OF CONTENTS

For many people in Toronto, the City provides an abundance of opportunities and experiences free of limitations imposed upon them by the built environment. For Torontonians with disabilities, however, the built environment imposes numerous obstacles that limit their ability to moving about freely and safely without concern. In June 2000, Toronto City Council adopted a motion to make the City fully accessible by the year 2008. In October 2000, Council requested staff develop new accessibility designguidelines and to start an audit of all City-owned buildings.

City Council’s recommendation resulted in the preparation of this coherent set of guidelines. They areintended to address the needs of people with disabilities with a wide range of impediments that limit theirability to access their environment that include but are not limited to mobility, sight, hearing or cognitivedisabilities (see also Appendix B: Definitions).

This document presents the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines and responds to the varyingneeds of the disability community. In 2001, 3.6 million Canadians living in households reported havingactivity limitations (Statistics Canada, A Profile of Disability in Canada 2001). The survey also indicatedthat in 2001, 1.5 million Ontarians had a disability, representing 13.5 per cent of the total 11 millionOntarians. Disability rate increases with age. The disability rate reported for persons aged 65 and over ismore than 40 per cent and for persons 75 and over is more than 50 per cent. The demographic implicationsare obvious and will drive the need for change. In the upcoming decades, the proportion of the population 65 and over will increase dramatically.

Every sector of society and government must provide barrier-free environments. Civic government mustlead the way in providing accessibility through City-owned buildings. The benefits of accessibility are significant. Aside from responding to the needs of people with disabilities, increasing accessibility leads toincreased opportunities for people with disabilities to access employment and to fully participate in thesocial, cultural, recreational, economic and political life of Toronto. Moreover, to compete nationally andinternationally, a barrier-free city can increase tourism and provide a competitive advantage. For instance,for Toronto’s Olympic bid in 2002, overwhelming pressure for a barrier-free city resulted in the City committing to make itself barrier-free and accessible. A logical outcome to this commitment was Councildirecting staff to develop the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines.

During the design, planning and construction of accessible spaces and buildings a wide range of opportunities exist not only to optimize independent access to persons with disabilities but also to improve access for all. The major objective of the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines, which are based on Universal Design principles (see definition in Appendix B), is to provide practicalexamples of solutions that optimize accessibility to buildings and other buildings owned or occupied by the City of Toronto.

The document should guide City staff when considering or developing capital projects. The guidelines willbe a building block in developing future policies, guidelines, standards and other initiatives that serve theneeds of persons with disabilities. The guidelines are in keeping with the Official Plan which states that

"A key city-building principle is that public buildings, parks and open spaces should be open and accessible to all members of the public including people with disabilities."

By making the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines available to all sectors of the planning,design and development industry, the City of Toronto demonstrates its commitment to proactive measures to eliminate and prevent barriers faced by persons with disabilities.


INTRODUCTION

I

GUIDELINE DEVELOPMENT

Associated Planning Consultants developed the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines with support and direction from the City of Toronto Community Advisory Committee on Disability Issues andnumerous City staff representing various City Departments (see Appendix A: Acknowledgements).

These guidelines consolidate the "best practices" identified during the extensive research on existing barrier-free standards and guidelines. It also includes some of the requirements of the Ontario BuildingCode (OBC 1997, Section 3.8) in accessibility planning and universal design (see definition in Appendix B).However, the most current version of the Ontario Building Code should be consulted during design and construction as these legislated minimum requirements may change over time. Exceedences to the OntarioBuilding Code (OBC) have been noted as being “recommended” in these guidelines. The Building Divisionof Urban Development Services do not have the authority to enforce exceedences beyond the current editionof the OBC and all other applicable law.

PRINCIPLES AND OBJECTIVES

Accessible design must:

• make approaching, entering and using buildings and structures easier. In this respect, accessible designmust address a wide variety of internal and external building elements;

• provide an equivalent level of life safety for everyone, including methods of leaving a building andcommunicating in an emergency;

• emphasize dignity and independence, providing those features that will allow people to function in theirday-to-day activities; and;

• be non-institutional and successfully integrated with a building's function, form and architectural quality.

LEGISLATION AND STANDARDS

The City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines are based primarily on current Canadian federal andprovincial legislation and published standards. Amendments and revisions to legislation and standards willrequire corresponding revisions to this document (see also Appendix C: Legislative Overview).

The City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines will be reviewed periodically to incorporate changesto the legislation, regulations and standards as well as new technologies and information. Where there arediscrepancies between the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines and other legislation or standardsthe most optimum level of accessibility should be used.

Legislation and Standards• All work must comply with the Ontario Human Rights Code. The Ontario Human Rights Commission

ultimately determines how to apply such concepts as "reasonable accommodation" and "undue hardship".

• All work must comply with the Ontarians with Disabilities Act (ODA): "An Act to improve the identification, removal and prevention of barriers faced by persons with disabilities and to make related amendments to other Acts."

• All work must comply with the most current edition of the Ontario Building Code (OBC) and all otherapplicable law. The OBC describes a minimum mandatory level of design standards for accessibility.


INTRODUCTION

II


The Ontario Human Rights Code supersedes the Ontario Building Code. As a result, although a providerhas incorporated barrier-free accessibility in accordance to the Ontario Building Code, the OntarioHuman Rights Commission may deem a building not accessible.

• These guidelines incorporate elements of Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standards CAN/CSAB651-95 "Barrier-Free Design". Some aspects of these standards describe an optimum level of accessibility beyond that of the OBC.

Policies and Guidelines• All work shall comply with the Policy and Guidelines on Disability and the Duty to Accommodate

from the Ontario Human Rights Commission, revised version, November 23, 2000.

The Ontario Human Rights Commission also codifies a number of principles: • Respect for dignity• Individualized accommodation• Integration and full participation

Staff considered these principles key in developing these guidelines.

Of these principles, the respect for dignity and integration and full participation are key to understanding theneed for and impact of accessibility in the built environment. These are described in the Ontario HumanRights Commission’s The Duty to Accommodate as follows:

"Human dignity encompasses individual self-respect and self-worth. It is considered physical and psychological integrity and empowerment. It is harmed when individuals are marginalized, stigmatized,ignored or devalued. Privacy, confidentiality, comfort, autonomy, individuality and self-esteem are important factors as well as to whether an accommodation maximizes integration and promotes full participation in society.

With these principles in mind, achieving integration and full participation for persons with disabilitiesrequires barrier-free and inclusive designs and removal of barriers. Preventing and removing barriers means persons with disabilities should be able to access their environment and face the same duties andrequirements as everyone else with dignity and without impediment. Where barriers continue to existbecause it is impossible to remove those barriers at a given point in time, then accommodation should be provided to the extent possible, short of undue hardship."

INTRODUCTION

III

PART I: EXTERIOR AREAS

PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS


PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES

3C I T Y O F T O R O N T O A C C E S S I B I L I T Y D E S I G N G U I D E L I N E S

POLICY:

All pedestrian routes should be safe and easy to use by awide range of persons with disabilities. Generally, suchroutes should be easily identifiable, clearly separatedfrom vehicular routes, and free of obstacles at all times of the year.

1.1.1 Bridges withPedestrian Access

• Pedestrian sidewalks locatedon either side of bridges,should have slopes no greaterthan 1:20 (5%), and crossslopes no greater than 1:50,or (2%), wherever possible.

• No sidewalk on a bridgeshould be less than 1220 mmwide where minimal pedestrian traffic is expected,and a minimum of 1525 mmwide where frequent pedestrian is anticipated(e.g., two-way pedestriantraffic).

• Handrails or guards locatedbeside sidewalks should beeasy to grasp at 50 mm wide(maximum) and mounted ata suitable height. (See Figure 1)

• It is recommended thatpedestrian footbridges haveramp access rather than stairways.

1.1.2 Crosswalks

• Wherever possible, crosswalks at roadway intersections should be

located so that the sidewalkand the crosswalk are at right angles to one another. All such pedestrian routesshould be free of obstacles,such as light standards, traffic signal supports, postsor catch basins as well as

temporary objects such aspots, boxes and garbage containers. (See Section 1.5.6 Traffic Signals andFigure 69)

3000 mm MIN.

3000 mm MIN.

NOTE: DOUBLE LINES ARE USED ATPEDESTRIAN CROSSWALKS

NOT AT INTERSECTIONS.ROADWAY

ROADWAY

SIDEWALK

SIDEWALK

Figure 2

SAFETY FEATURES FOR PERSONS WHO ARE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

Figure 1

• Crosswalks should have suitable curb ramps at eachend of the walkway wheresidewalks are provided, orwherever level differences of more than 19 mm occur.(See Figure 2)

• Intermediate traffic islandsshould include appropriatecurb ramps or, in the area ofcrosswalks, be level withstreet paving. Such levelareas should be clearlymarked by white lines and/ordistinctive highly contrastingpaving.

• Crosswalks should be at least 3000 mm wide and clearly marked by 100 mm painted white lines, or by using distinctive, highly contrasting paving materials.

• Pedestrian crosswalks located between intersectionsshould include appropriatecurb ramps at each end, andbe located so that there is aclear view of traffic, in each direction, and sufficient distance from the intersection to permit a safe crossing.

• Wherever traffic lights or pedestrian crossovers (PXO) are provided, a clearly identifiable pedestrian pushbutton should be locatedadjacent to the crosswalk andmounted on a nearby post ata height of 1065 mm. Pavingshould be level at posts, providing at least 915 mm X 1220 mm clear approacharea for pedestrians. (See Figures 3 and 69)

1.1.3 Curb Ramps/Curb Cutson Public Right of Way

• Curb ramps should be provided wherever there is a level difference between the sidewalk, or pedestrian pathway, and the road surface at all street corners, or wherever pedestrian crosswalks are provided. (See Figure 4)

• Curb transitions to have a minimum length of 1500 mm to provide safersidewalk ramp transitionslopes. (See Figure 5)

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES

4 C I T Y O F T O R O N T O A C C E S S I B I L I T Y D E S I G N G U I D E L I N E S

SIDEWALK

ROAD

CURB TRANSITION

RAMP

CURB DEPRESSION

RAMP TRANSITION

1500 mm 1500 mm 1500 mm

2000 mm

Figure 4

PUSHBUTTON

ROADWAY

ROADWAY

SIDEWALK

SIDEWALK

BUILDING ENTRANCE

BUILDING ENTRANCEPUSHBUTTON

Figure 3



• Curb ramps should be a minimum of 1500 mm widewhen the ramp is located ona public thoroughfare, haveflared, non-slip sides, and be of a clearly different, cane detectable texture (e.g.,incised lines, 13 mm deep on100 mm centres in poured inplace concrete), from the surrounding sidewalk at rightangles to the path of travel. (See Figure 5)

• As an aid to persons withvisual limitations, curbramps should be finished atthe lower edge with a cane detectable rounded edgeof 13 mm in height andwhere possible, be in a contrasting colour to the roadsurface and also be of a different textured material to allow easy identification. (See Figure 6)

• Generally, curb ramps shouldbe located so that they are free of accumulated rainwater or melting snow,and contain no manhole covers, storm gratings, orother obstacles that limit free movement. Where catchbasins are necessary, theyshould be positioned on the upstream side of thecrosswalk.

• It is recommended to have a clear and level landing minimum of 1065 mmdeep, which should be provided at the top of curbramps in order to allow turning (left or right) ofmobility aids.

Whenever possible, this level area should be 1500 mmdeep.(See Figure 5)

DETECTABLEWARNINGSURFACE

ROADWAY

SIDEWALK

PLANTING OR OTHERNON-WALKING SURFACE

Figure 6

DETECTABLEWARNINGSURFACE

ROADWAY

SIDEWALK

FLARED SIDE

CURB DEPRESSION

CURB TRANSITION

1065 mm

1500 mm

1500 mm

1500 mm

RAMP TRANSITION

2000 mm

Figure 5

1.1.4 Grades and ElevationChanges

• Wherever possible, gradeson roads and sidewalksshould be designed so thatthe slope of pedestrian routesdoes not exceed 1:20.

• Wherever possible, accessible paths of travelshould have a minimumnumber of curb cuts to keepsidewalk as level as possible.

• Where elevation changesgreater than 1:20 are necessary, and/or where steps are unavoidable, properly designed rampssuitable for persons usingmobility aids must be provided in close proximity.

• Where steeply sloping landscaped areas are locatedadjacent to pedestrian routesand where slope exceeds 3:1(horizontal to vertical), aclear boundary edge; such asan up-stand curb or retainingwall, (minimum 150 mmhigh) is desirable as a locational aid for personswho have visual limitations. (See Figures 7 and 8)

• Where the grade drop-off adjacent to the sidewalk is460 mm or more, a handrailor guard is recommended asan aid to persons with visuallimitations. (See Figure 8)

1.1.5 Guards and Handrails

• Continuous handrails shouldbe provided on both sides of all ramps or stairs, orwherever three or more steps are provided.

• Handrails should be of asmooth, easy to grip design,no more than 50 mm indiameter; and mountedbetween 865 mm and 965 mm (above stair nosings). (See Figures 9 and 10)



915 mmMIN.

50-100 mm

460 mm300 mm

Figure 8

865-915 mm

150 mm

Figure 7



• A level section of handrailshould extend a minimum of300 mm beyond the top andbottom risers of all flights ofstairs or ramps. (See Figure19) Note: Handrails on theinside curve of stairs orramps need not extend morethan 100 mm.

• Handrail ends should terminate either by turningdown, or by going into thewall as an aid to persons who have visual limitations.

• Guards are required on both ramps and stairs wherever height differences are significant.

• Guards and/or handrails,where provided on terracesor viewing platforms, shouldbe designed so that a seatedperson (e.g., wheelchairuser) can see under the handrail or guard.

• Handrails and/or guardsshould not be located within1000 mm of any roadway.

1.1.6 Lay-Bys for Vehicles

• Wherever regular stops forspecial transit vehicles areprovided, a special lay-byarea, free of other vehiculartraffic is desirable. (See Figure 11)

• Lay-by spaces should belevel and a minimum of3050 mm wide by 7925 mmlong with a curb cut locatedtowards the rear of the space.

• Lay-by headroom should bea recommended minimumclearance of 3555 mm forspecial transit vehicle and for adapted vans etc. (See Figure 11)

• Sidewalks adjacent to lay-by headroom should be a recommended minimum clearance of 1980 mm wide, to accommodate side-loading vehicles with hydraulic lifts.

3555 mmMIN.

RECOMMENDED

Figure 11

30-50 mm

40 mmFOR SMOOTHWALL SURFACES

HANDRAILS

ACCEPTABLE PREFERRED

Figure 10Figure 9

1.1.7 Paths, Sidewalks andWalkways

POLICY:

All entrance paths/sidewalks ina public right of way and/orwalkways for pedestrians andpersons using mobility aidsmust be of firm, level, andnon-slip materials and are recommended to be a minimum of 1675 mm wide toallow two wheelchairs orscooters to pass one another.In no case should sidewalks beless than 1525 mm wide wheretwo-way traffic is expected.

• Sidewalks should be a maximum gradient of 1:20 (5%), except where site conditions prevent this. (See Figure 22)

• Walkways and paths on private property should be a minimum of 1100 mm and widened to 1600 mm(1675 mm recommended)width at 30 m intervals to accommodate persons using mobility aids.

• Unit paving materials used in sidewalks, paths andwalkways should be firm andlevel, with joints no greaterthan 6 mm wide. (See Figure 12)

• Where gratings must belocated in sidewalks, noopening should be widerthan 13 mm and bars of gratings should be perpendicular to the path oftravel. (See Figure 13)

• Wherever possible, considerthe use of clearly markedcontinuous amenity strips atthe edge of the sidewalk toaccommodate posts, mailboxes, trees, guy-wires,planters, bicycle racks andvending machines, etc.

Such strips are to be at least 610 mm wide and separatedfrom the pedestrian walkwayby a colour contrasted andcane detectable border that is a minimum of 305 mm wide. (See Figure 14)



LONG DIMENSION PERPENDICULARTO ROUTE OF TRAVEL

GRATING ORIENTATON

Figure 13

FRONT GUIDE WHEELOF WHEELCHAIR

SURFACE OF WALKWAY

PAVER

13 mmMAX.

6 mmMAX.

Figure 12



1.1.8 Pedestrian Routes

POLICY

Public Pedestrian routesshould be designed to ensurethe comfort and safety of allpersons regardless of age orability.

• All active routes required toaccommodate persons using mobility aids, walkers, or persons accompanied byguide dogs, should be a minimum of 1500 mm wide;1675 mm is preferred.

• All routes should be free of protruding obstacles,overhanging signs, branchesetc., in the walking area, toaid persons with visual limitations. (See Figures 14 and 15)

• The maximum allowable protrusion of objects into anypedestrian route from grade to a recommended height of2030 mm is 100 mm.

865 mm -915 mm

2030 mmMIN.

RECOMMENDED

100 mmMAX.

WIDTH OF WALK1525 mm MIN.

Figure 15

150 mmMIN.

150 mmMIN.

COLOUR CHANGE BETWEEN WALKSURFACE AND CURB WOULD AID

THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

REFLECTIVE POOL

Figure 14

1.1.9 Ramps

POLICY

Wherever the gradient is morethan 1:20, ramps should beprovided that comply with thefollowing criteria:

• Ramps must be no steeperthan 1:12, with individualramp sections no longer than9 m. (Note: 1:15 is preferredwhere space is available).

• Ramp widths should be a maximum of 1100 mmand a recommended minimum of 1015 mmbetween handrails, to allowpersons using mobility aidsto move easily and to graspthe handrails if required(e.g., while ascending ordescending).

• Where ramps are requiredfor use by persons with visual limitations only, rampsup to 1525 mm are preferred,in order to allow space for acompanion or a guide dog.

• For intermediate level landings, a minimum of1670 mm in depth by thewidth of the ramp should beprovided. Level landings attop and bottom of the rampshall be a minimum of 1670 mm by 1670 mm. (See Figure 16)

• Where ramps return upon themselves, or whereverdoors open out onto theramp, the level platform areashall be a minimum of 1670mm by 1670 mm and anadditional distance for any

doors opening on to the landing.(See Figures 17 and 18)

• An up-stand curb 50 mm high or a solid barrier is recommended on either sideof ramps for persons usingmobility aids, in order to actas a safety stop for the frontwheels of wheelchairs and/orscooters.

• Ramps with slopes between1:20 and 1:12 requirehandrails on both sides as an aid to mobility.



1670 mmMIN.

1670 mmMIN.

600 mmMIN.

300 mmMIN.

1670 mmMIN.

1670 mmMIN.RAMP

RAMP

Figure 18Figure 17

CURBS OR RAILS AROUNDEDGES OF RAMPS AND LANDINGS

LEVEL LANDING(INTERMEDIATE)

1670 mmMIN.

9 mMAX.

1670 mmMIN.

1670 mmMIN.

600 mmMIN.

(300 mm IF DOOR OPENS AWAY FROM RAMP)

1015 mmRECOMMENDEDMIN. BETWEEN

HANDRAILS

Figure 16



• Handrails on ramps shouldbe mounted between 865mm and 965 mm, and provide a smooth continuoussurface from the top to bottom of the ramp, without breaking the handhold.

• Handrails should extend aminimum distance of 300mm beyond the top and bottom of the ramp (SeeFigure 19). Handrail endsmust be turned down orcurved into an adjacent wallas an aid to persons withvisual disabilities.

1.1.10 Stairs and Steps

• Exterior steps should be of firm; non-slip materials witha recommended maximumrise of 180 mm, and a maximum tread length of280 mm. (See Figure 20)

• Tread nosings should be clearly marked with either a brightly painted non-slip finish and/or include an integrated non-slip nosingthat clearly contrasts intone/colour from the tread.

• Continuous handrails shouldbe provided on both sides ofall exterior flights of stairs orsteps, which include 3 ormore risers.

• For all flights of stairs orsteps that are 2200 mm wideor greater, an intermediate(middle) handrail is recommended, as an aid topersons with limited mobility or vision.

• Paving surfaces at the topand bottom of all flights ofstairs or steps should includea cane-detectable and textured

walking surface, a minimumof 915 mm deep, (forward ofthe first riser and continuousfrom the top of stair), as anearly warning of an impendinglevel change to persons withvisual limitations. (See Figure 20)

DEPTH OFONE TREAD

RISER

VISUAL CONTRASTON TOP OF NOSING

HORIZONTALNOSING

TREAD

915 mmMIN.

TREAD DEPTH280 mm MAX.

RECOMMENDED

NOSINGSTRIP

38 mm MAX.

180 mmMAX.

RECOMMENDED

VISUALCONTRAST

NOT LESSTHAN 60

Figure 20

1070 mm

300 mm

300 mm TOP OF GUARDHANDRAIL

Figure 19

• Exterior doors that open onto landings should be avoided wherever possible, in orderto minimize hazards to persons with visual limitations. Where suchdoors are unavoidable, thelanding depth should beincreased to 1670 mm. No door should open ontoany sloping section of a ramp.

1.1.11 Traffic Islands onPublic Right of Way

• Where traffic islands arerequired, they should be builtof materials and finishes thatare easily distinguishablefrom the surrounding paving,as an aid to persons who areblind or who have visuallimitations.

• Pedestrian crosswalks thatcross a traffic island shouldbe level with the main crossing or have curb rampsfor persons using mobilityaids.

• Traffic islands should be atleast 1500 mm wide (1980mm is preferred) to providepersons using mobility aidsand seniors with a safe resting zone. (See Figure 21)

• Where the crossing surface at the island is level with thepaving, the safe waiting areashould be made clearly identifiable by using different materials, coloursor textures that are detectableby persons with low vision.



1525 mmMIN. LEVEL CROSSING WITH DETECTABLE

WARNING SURFACES AT ISLAND

RAMP WITHFLARED SIDES

Figure 21

LEVEL IDEAL ACCESSIBLE WALKWAYS

5% or < 1:20

Figure 22

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS


POLICY:

All pedestrian routes to theMain Entrance and/or otheraccessible entrances shouldprovide a safe, direct, level and obstacle free path of travelfor persons with mobility or visual limitations.

1.2.1 Accessible Routes to Entrances

• Provide an accessible routefrom the site boundary to theMain Entrance and/or otheraccessible entrances of atleast 1100 mm however a 1675 mm wide is recommended, consisting of a firm non-slip material.

• Accessible pedestrian routesto entrances should bedesigned so they do not cross into vehicular routes.

• In situations where accessible pedestrian routescross into vehicular routes,crossings with suitable curbramps identified by brightyellow or white lines and/ordistinct paving should beprovided.

• Slopes of walkways shouldnot exceed 1:20 (5%). Wheresteeper walks are necessary,nearby stairs should be provided and the slopesshould be treated as ramps. (See Figure 22)

• Where the length of accessible routes to accessible entrances exceeds30 m, rest areas at intervalsof 30 m are recommended.

• Rest areas should be locatedto one side of walkways, beat least 1200 mm deep andinclude space for a bench,wheelchair, or scooter.

1.2.2 Bus/Public TransitShelters

POLICY

Bus shelters should be located on a firm and level base approximately 4265 mm by 1830 mm and be at the same elevation as the sidewalk orwalkway. Clearances aroundthe shelter (particularly on theside of the landing pad) shouldbe a minimum of 1100 mm.This will allow easy wheelchairor scooter access on all sidesused by pedestrians. (See Figure 23)

• The bus shelter design should provide a clear view of on-coming traffic, andhave a minimum interiorlength of 2185 mm to accommodate persons using mobility aids.

• At least one seat, between405 mm and 460 mm highshould be provided inside thebus shelter, since it would besuitable for seniors and otherpersons with limited stamina.For persons who are verytall, or who have difficultysitting, a resting ledge, or substantial handrail, mounted at 760 mm to 815 mm highis beneficial.

• All glazed panels formingpart of a bus shelter shouldhave 50 mm diameter decalsor a continuous colouredline, mounted at eye-level 1525 mm. Decals should be positioned at no more than 150 mm on centre, to ensure easy identification by persons with limitedvision.

BUS LIFT ZONE

BUS SHELTER

BENCH

ACCESSIBLE BUS STOP

HAZARD ZONE

OVERHANG(ABOVE)

HAZARD ZONE920 mmMIN.

920 mmMIN.

920 mmMIN.

920 mmMIN.

1100 mmMIN. 2440 mm

MIN.

Figure 23

1.2.3 Bus Stops

• Waiting areas at bus stopsshould be of level and firmmaterials, at least 2000 mmwide by 12000 mm long, inorder to accommodate waiting persons.

• Bus stop areas should be freeof all street furniture, e.g.,dispensers, vending machines,waste boxes, planters, posts,signs and guy wires.

1.2.4 Emergency Routes

• Vehicular routes, used by emergency vehicles (e.g., firetrucks and ambulances),should be clearly identifiedby suitable signage andshould avoid crossing primary pedestrian routes to the main entrance or other accessible entranceswherever possible.

1.2.5 Parking

POLICY

Designated accessible parkingspace(s), whether external orinternal, should be providedwithin 30m of the main accessible entrance and/orany other accessible entrances.

• Provide a protected, or designated route from the accessible parking spaces tothe main accessible entranceand/or any other accessibleentrances.

• Parking meters to be accessible for persons with disabilities.

• In no case should the numberof accessible parking spacesbe less than 4 for the first100 spaces (i.e. 1:25 parkingspaces) plus 2 spaces foreach additional 100 parkingspaces (i.e. 1:50). No lessthan 1 accessible parkingspace should be providedwhere the number of parkingspaces provided is less than 25.

• At least one accessible parking space for wheelchairvans, a minimum of 3660mm wide and 5385 mmlong, should be provided foreach 100 spaces.(See Figures 24 and 28)

• Headroom clearance for van parking spaces should be at least 2750 mm.

• In multi-storey or underground parkinggarages, at least one level of parking should includeeasy to locate accessibleparking spaces.

• The walkway from designated parking to theaccessible entry to the building should be no lessthan 1100 mm in width andmust be firm, level, non-slipmaterial with a texture contrasted with the adjacent surfaces.

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS


8840 mm

4880 mm

Figure 25

810 mm MIN.

CURB RAMP

METER (TO BE ACCESSIBLE)

SIGN ON POST

3660 mm

5385 mm

Figure 24

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS


• Where covered or underground parking spacesfor cars are provided, allaccess and exit routes,including ramps serving such spaces, should haveclear headroom of 2100 mmbelow beams, pipes, or sprinkler heads, however2285 mm is recommended.

• All accessible parking spacesshould be marked with the"International Symbol ofAccessibility", (e.g., with a paving sign and a post mounted sign). (See Figures 26 and 27)

• Accessible parking spaces should be a minimum of3660 mm wide, with a clear pedestrian aisle of 1200 mm. Where two accessible parking spaces are adjacent, the pedestrian aislemay be shared, and shouldpreferably be increased to1500 mm. (See Figures 25 and 27)

• Provide a suitable curb ramp from the accessible carparking area to any adjacentsidewalk or pedestrian routewhere difference in elevationis greater than 13 mm.

• All safe pedestrian walkwaysshould be clearly marked(e.g., by the use of paintedyellow lines and/or distinctive paving surfaces).

5385 mm

3660 mm

1200 mm

2000 mmMIN.

2000 mmMIN.

CURB RAMP

SYMBOL ONPAVEMENT

PARKING AREAS

SIGN ON POST

CLEAR SPACE

Figure 28

Figure 26

1500 mm

3660 mm

CURB RAMP

SYMBOL ONPAVEMENT

SYMBOL ONPAVEMENT

SIGN ON POST

VERTICAL SIGNON BUILDING

Figure 27

1.2.6 Passenger Loading Zones

• Passenger loading zones on individual sites should belocated within 30m of themain or other accessibleentrance.

• Bus parking space at passenger loading zonesshould be at least 7925 mmlong by 3050 mm wide, toaccommodate special transit vehicles.

• Headroom clearance at car passenger loading zonesshould be a minimum of2750 mm but 2895 mm isrecommended.

• For special transit vehicles,such as WheelTrans Buses,the headroom clearance isrecommended to beincreased to 3555 mm. (See Figure 30)

• Suitable curb ramps shouldbe provided at all passengerloading zones, where differences in roadway andsidewalk levels are greaterthan 19 mm.

• Van parking spaces at passenger loading zonesshould be a minimum of7315 mm long by 2590 mmwide. (See Figure 29)

• All designated passengerloading zones should have asidewalk or safe pedestrianzone, located behind thevehicle and at the passengerboarding side of the vehicle,a minimum of 2000 mm wide by the length or width

of the boarding space, toensure safe loading andunloading.

• All designated passengerloading zones should bemarked with appropriate signage utilizing the"International Symbol of Accessibility".

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS


2750 mmMIN.

(3555 mmRECOMMENDED)

Figure 30

2590 mm 2590 mm

1500 mm CURB RAMP

SYMBOL ONPAVEMENT

SIGN ON POSTSIGN ON POST

7315 mm

Figure 29

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES


POLICY

All areas and special featuresof a site or facility, normallyused or available to membersof the general public, shouldbe accessible to and useable by people with varying disabilities.

1.3.1 Amphitheatres

• Exterior amphitheatres or performance areas shouldinclude seating areas that areaccessible to persons usingmobility aids. At least twospaces should be providedside by side. A minimum of 2% of all spaces is recommended for persons using mobility aids.

• Fixed or portable seatingshould include some seatswith back supports and armrests to accommodate seniorsor others with limited stability.

1.3.2 Outdoor Eating andEntertainment SpacesBalconies and Terraces

• Exterior residential and public balconies or terracesshould be accessible frominterior spaces with thresholds no higher than 13 mm.

• Where greater differences in elevation are unavoidable,short ramps with a maximumrise of 150 mm, maximumpitch of 1:7.5 and maximumlength of 1200 mm should be utilized.

• Balcony or terrace surfacesshould be of firm non-slipmaterials, laid to fall (nogreater than 5%) to ensurerapid removal of water or melting snow.

• Balcony or terrace handrailsor guards should complywith OBC requirements andshould be designed to allowclear vision below the railsfor persons seated in wheelchairs wherever possible. Note: The top surface of the rail shouldalso be designed to be graspable, to assist personswith limited stability. (See also Section 1.1.5,Guards and Handrails)

• Balcony depths should be a minimum recommended of1830 mm to allow free rotation of mobility aids. (See Figure 31)

• Doors opening out, onto balconies or terraces, shouldbe located where they openagainst a sidewall or rail.This ensures doors do notconstitute a hazard to persons who have visual limitations as well as permitting optimum access by persons usingmobility aids.

1070 mm

1830 mmRECOMMENDED

Figure 31

1.3.3 Boardwalks

• Where boardwalks are provided, (e.g., at beach or waterfront locations), they should be at least 1675 mm wide to allow two persons inwheelchairs to pass easily. (See Figure 32)

• Boardwalk surfaces should be of firm, non-slipmaterials. Where woodenboardwalks are provided,planks should be laid perpendicular to the normalpath of travel with jointwidths no greater than 6 mm.

• Where the grade drop-off on any side is greater than205 mm, a contrasting, continuous stand up edge of at least 150 mm high isrecommended as an aid to persons with visual or mobility limitations.

• Where the grade drop-off isgreater than 460 mm,handrails or other suitableguards are recommended.(See Section 1.1.5, Guardsand Handrails)

• Roads, paths, sidewalks, orother pedestrian approachesto the boardwalk shouldallow easy wheelchair orscooter access via level sur-faces and/or suitably rampedaccess points.

• Benches and/or garbage cansshould be located to one sideof the boardwalk on level,firm surfaces at the same elevation as the boardwalk.

1.3.4 Campgrounds

• Municipal campgroundsshould include at least

3% accessible campsites closeto essential amenities, such aswashrooms and showers.

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES


19825 mm

19825 mm 7620 mm

14750 mm

3660 mmMIN.

3050 mm6100 mm

4875 mm

CAMPGROUND ROAD

ASPHALT

GRILL

PARKING BARRIER

Figure 33

915 mmMIN.

BENCH

PROVIDE SURFACE CONTRASTTO DENOTE SEATING AREA

NOTE: PROVIDE SEATING OPPORTUNITIES EVERY 90 m ALONG PATHS OF TRAVEL

WALKWAY WALKWAY

1675 mmMIN.

600 mmMIN.

1200 mmMIN.

1200 mmMIN.

Figure 32



• Accessible campsites shouldbe level with adjacentgrades, be of a firm freedraining surface, and includeadjacent accessible parking.(See Figure 33)

• Picnic tables and barbecuepits in close proximity toaccessible campsites shouldbe wheelchair accessible.(See Figure 34)

• A firm surface, roadway, orpath should be availablebetween the accessiblecampsite, accessible washrooms, and showers orother campground amenities.

• Accessible campsites shouldinclude an accessible hydrooutlet to allow recharging ofbatteries for electric mobilityaids.

1.3.5 Community Mailboxes

POLICY

Community mailboxes shouldbe located in highly visiblelocations to one side of pedestrian routes or roadways.(See Canada Post Guidelinesfor Community Mailboxes).

• Where provided, parkingspaces or lay-bys at community mailboxes shouldinclude sufficient space for a wheelchair user’s van.

• An accessible curb rampshould be provided to permitaccess from the road surfaceand/or parking locations byvarious mobility aids. (See Figure 35)

• Community mailboxesshould be mounted on level,firm, and free-drainingsurfaces. A minimum clearapproach area of 1370 mmby 1525 mm should be provided to allow access bypersons using mobility aids.

• Where designated boxes arenot available for wheelchairusers, a minimum of 10% ofboxes should be mounted sothat the lock is no higherthan 1220 mm and no lower than 460 mm.

• All numbers on mail boxesshould be at least 19 mmhigh for easy identificationand be colour or tonedifferentiated from the mailbox surface.

200 mmMIN.

1525 mmMIN.

LAMP POST

CONCRETEPAVEMENT

UNIVERSAL ACCESSMAXIMUM SLOPE ie: 5%

COMMUNITY MAILBOX - ACCESS

2

3

4

6

Figure 35

610 mm – 915 mm

610 mmMIN.

Figure 34

• All other amenities at the community mail box (e.g.,mail slots, stamp machines,etc.), should be approachableand useable by persons usingmobility aids. (See theCanada Post AccessibilityGuidelines for CommunityMailboxes)

• Garbage cans should be located close to community mailboxes; however, theyshould be placed to one sideof the normal paths of travel.

1.3.6 Docks

POLICY

Fishing, boating, or swimmingdocks should be accessible topersons with varying disabilities.(See Figures 36 & 37)

• Paths, boardwalks and/orother routes to docks shouldbe made of level and firmmaterial that provides directaccess without changes inelevation. Where inclinedroutes are unavoidable, the gradient should be nogreater than 1:20. (SeeSection 1.2.1, AccessibleRoutes to Entrances, Figure 22)

• Grades steeper than 1 in 20should be designed as aramp, with a slope gradientno greater than 1:12. (See Section 1.1.9, Ramps)

• Handrails should be providedon both sides of ramps at1:12 gradient. (See alsoSection 1.2.1, AccessibleRoutes to Entrances, Figure 22)

• Elevation changes of 205mm or less can be ramped at 1:8.

• Where dock surfaces arelocated more than 460 mmabove the normal water surface (e.g., floating docks),a suitable guardrail should beprovided.

• Where dock surfaces are 205 mm or less above thewater, a contrasting stand up edge of at least 150 mmhigh is recommended, on allexposed sides.

• Steps down into the waterfor swimming areas or/atdocks should includehandrails on both sides,extending to a minimum of 610 mm above the docksurface, and returned down to the dock.

• Steps should provide a safe entering position for persons with limited vision or stability. (See Figure 37)



600 mmACCESSIBLE ENTRY TO WATER

150 mm

Figure 37

ACCESSIBLE FISHING DOCK

1070 mm

460 mm

865 - 915 mm

150 mm

Figure 36



1.3.7 Grandstands andViewing Areas

POLICY

Where exterior grandstands and viewing areas are provided, accessible seatingspaces for persons usingmobility aids should be available in all price ranges. (See Figures 38 and 39)

• At least 2% of all seating areas should be designed to accommodate persons using mobility aids and located to provide a clear view ofevent.

• Clear floor space for a person using a wheelchairshould be a minimum of 900 mm wide by 1500 mmdeep without reducingrequired aisle space for sideapproach and 1200 mm long for front or rear entry.(See also Figure 39)

• At least two spaces shouldbe provided side by side ineach accessible location toallow for a companion.

• Wheelchair seating areasshould be made of level, firmand of non-slip material.

• Where guardrails, handrailsor fences separate viewingareas from performanceareas, care should be taken to ensure that sight lines areappropriate.

• Fixed seating, benches, orloose seating areas shouldinclude some seating withback supports and arm restsfor seniors (or others) withlimited stability.

• Seat heights should be nogreater than 460 mm abovefloor level and no less than405 mm.

• Aisles leading to accessibleseating areas should haveslopes no greater than 1:20 atany point.

Walkway behind wheelchairpositions should be a minimum of 1200 mm wide(any width reductions mustcomply with the OBC)

• Viewing areas at scenic lookouts etc., should beaccessible to persons usingvarious mobility aids such aswheelchairs or scooters.

1200 mm

900 mm

A MINIMUM OF TWOWHEELCHAIR POSITIONSIN ANY ONE LOCATIONIS RECOMMENDED

AISLE AISLE

Figure 39

CLEAR VIEW

MAINTAINREQUIRED

AISLE WIDTH

Figure 38

• Where pay-per-view telescopes etc. are available,at least one location shouldbe accessible to personsusing mobility aids. Viewinglenses and controls should be mounted no higher than 1200 mm above grade.

1.3.8 Outdoor SwimmingPools and Wading Pools

POLICY

Outdoor swimming and wadingpools should be accessible topersons of varying ages orvarying disabilities.

• Swimming pools should be generally of "level-deck"design to allow easy entryand exit to the pool. Wherea stand up edge is providedaround the perimeter of the pool, it should be a recommended minimum of205 mm high, and no higherthan 405 mm. The top edgeshould be of 305 mm wide toallow for a seated person.

• Pool boundaries should beclearly defined by a texturalchange and be of a brightcolour or sharp contrast (e.g.: 70% light reflectance difference) to both the water surface and the surroundingpaving as an aid to personswith visual limitations. (See Figures 42 & 43)

• All materials and finishesused on the pool perimeter,on the deck or on pavedareas surrounding the pool,should be of firm, non-slipmaterials.

• Pool perimeter tile or finishes should be easy toclean and non-abrasive, tominimize skin damage, with rounded edges at allpool boundary locations.

• The walls and floors of swimming pools should have a light coloured finish forincreased safety.

• Adequate drainage should be provided on the pool deck toremove water quickly at all times.



DECK DRAINDETECTABLE LIP AND

TEXTURED SURROUNDPOOL

Figure 42

EDGE OF POOL

OUTDOOR POOLS

BOTH SHALLOW STEPS AND RAMPS WITH ADJACENT

HANDRAILS ALLOW INDEPENDENTACCESS TO THE WATER.

Figure 40

300 mm865 – 965 mm

865 – 965 mm

Figure 41



• Drainage tile, scuppers, ortrenches should be designedto minimize accidental tripping and have no openings greater than 13 mm.

• Pool depth markings as wellas SHALLOW END’ and‘DEEP END’ signage shouldbe in highly contrastingcolours and of sufficient sizethat is easily visible to persons with low vision.

• Where diving boards or platforms are provided, theyshould be clearly marked andprotected so that personswith visual limitations do not accidentally walk below.

• Handrails should be providedon both sides of access stepsinto the pool, and extend atleast 300 mm onto the pooldeck. (See Figures 40, 41and 44)

• Swimming pools, lanes, orlane markers should be inhighly contrasting colours.Tie-off devices for lanemarkers should be locatedwhere they do not constitutea potential tripping hazard.

• Starter blocks (for competitive racing) shouldbe capable of being securelyfixed in place without posing a tripping hazard.

• Storage of safety gear orother equipment around thepool should be positionedwhere it does not constitute ahazard to persons with visuallimitations.

• Lifeguard chairs or other poolrelated structures should bepainted in highly contrastingcolours.

• In public swimming pools,where there is no autonomousaccess for persons with disabilities, some provisionfor transferring persons from wheelchairs into thewater should be available.Wherever possible, permanent ramps are preferred to portable lifts.

• Built-in ramps into poolsshould be sloped at 1:12,have handrails on both sides(See Figures 40 and 41), andbe positioned where it does not interfere with swimminglanes.

• Wading pool access should be safe and gradual so that children with disabilities can be assisted into the water easily and/or use awheelchair to enter.

RECESSED STEPS

GUARDRAILGUARDRAIL

180 mmMIN.

POOL SURROUND

305 mmMIN.

1015 mm

Figure 44

SHALLOW END

POOL BOUNDARY

SURROUNDINGPAVING

1015 mm

1800 mm

1800 mm

915 mm

Figure 43

1.3.9 Parks and Parkettes

POLICY

Public parks, parkettes, and playgrounds should bedesigned to be used by people with varyingabilities/disabilities and with universal access principles in mind.

• Entrance gates, parkingareas, paths and walkwaysthrough the park should befully accessible to personsusing mobility aids. (Seealso section 1.1.7 Paths,Sidewalks, and Walkwaysand Section 1.2.5, Parking)

• Play areas and recreationalequipment, or other amenities should generallybe designed to be accessibleto and useable by childrenwith varying abilities/disabilities. (see fig. 45 and 46)

• Park benches or seating areasshould be readily availablefor children and older persons. Benches and seating areas should beaccessible to a variety of users.

• Where planting beds are provided, consider the use ofraised beds, fragrant plantingmaterials, and Braille signage as an added value to persons who have visuallimitations or for personsusing mobility aids. (See also section 1.6.6.Landscapes, Materials, and Planting)

• All garbage containers, light standards, or otherobstructions should be located to one side of all paths and/or active playing areas, as an aidto children with visual limitations. (See alsoSections 1.4.8, StreetFurniture and VendingMachines and Section 1.4.9,Waste Receptacles andRecycling Bins)

• For accessible park amenitiessuch as public washrooms,changing rooms, or telephones, see Sections1.4.6, Public Telephones and Section 1.4.7, PublicWashrooms.



A LOW PLATFORM HELPS CHILDREN TRANSFER ONTO PLAY EQUIPMENT

Figure 46

ADJUSTABLE BASKETBALL HOOPS

HEIGHTADJUSTABLEAPPARATUS

Figure 45



1.3.10 Play Spaces

The Canadian Parks andRecreation Association Policystates that play develops inter-personal and socialawareness, intelligence andphysical skills and that play is an equalizing medium for children with differing abilities/disabilities (CanadianParks and RecreationAssociation website).Consequently, the City ofToronto is planning on prioritising certain play spacesto be designed as inclusive for all children, including children and youth with varying abilities/disabilities.This prioritisation will bebased on programming needs,community input, and a physical analysis of sites.Below is a brief description of the basic components to be integrated in identified inclusive play spaces, (additional references are atthe end of this section).Inclusive play spaces are to implemented with the following:

• An accessible route to theplay space from accessibleparking spaces. An accessible route is defined as a pathway specificallydesigned to provide accessfor individuals with disabilities, including thosewho use wheelchairs ormobility devices, with a minimum clear width distance of 1500 mm (1675mm preferred) and a maximum slope of 1:20.Ramps are needed whereverthe slope exceeds 1:20. Themaximum slope for a ramp is

1:12 (1:15 preferred), and the recommended minimumwidth of 1015 mm (betweenhandrails), for a maximumsloped distance of 9 m.Landings are to have a minimum 2% cross-slope toallow adequate drainage andwould accommodate changesof direction or rest sites asneeded on accessible routes,(See also Section 1.1.9Ramps).

• An accessible resilient surfacing compliant withcurrent Canadian SafetyAssociation Standards, andany applicable referencedportions of the currentAmerican Society for Testingand Materials StandardSpecifications for ImpactAttenuation of SurfaceSystems Under and AroundPlayground Equipment(ASTM 1292) andDetermination ofAccessibility to SurfaceSystems Under and Around PlaygroundEquipment (ASTM 1951).An accessible surfacing is to be firm, stable and slipresistant enough to beaccessible by individuals

using mobility aids or wheelchairs. The surfaceneeds the ability to drain rapidly to avoid the hazardsof ice or water accumulation.

• Play areas separated by age appropriate equipment,including a junior area foruse generally for childrenunder 5 years of age and a senior area for use generally for children/youth 5-12 years of age.This separation of agegroups makes supervisioneasier for the parent(s) or care-givers. It is theparent(s)/caregiver(s) who are most familiar with a child’s capabilities and it istheir judgements which willensure safe use of equipmentby children, regardless oftheir age.

• A diversity of play componentschosen carefully to engagemultiple senses, developskills and encourage socialinteraction (examples of thisare talking tubes, PersonalCommunication Systems,and interactive, musical, ore educational panels). Play components are to belinked to an accessible routethrough the playground. One of each type of playcomponent is to be accessibleand a minimum of 50% ofall play components should be accessible for small playgrounds (10 or less playcomponents), or 75% for larger playgrounds.

480 mmMIN.

685 mmMIN.

Figure 47

Specific details for accessiblecomponents can be referencedelsewhere below, but would generally include wheelchairaccess.

These guidelines are not intended to be comprehensiveand finalised, they will berevised and updated with newinformation as it becomes available on how to best includechildren of all abilities.

References:

Boundless PlaygroundsPublication, High ExpectationsPlaygrounds for Children of AllAbilities.www.boundlessplaygrounds.org

Canadian Parks and RecreationAssociation – Definition of Children’s Playwww.cpra.ca

Guide de Référence enAccessibilité pour leséquipements de Loisirwww.altergo.net/documents/Guide_ref_acc_equip_loisirs.pdf

A Guide to the Americans withDisabilities Act AccessibilityGuidelines for Play Areaswww.access-board.gov/play/guide/intro.htm

Playability Tool Kit; BuildingAccessible Playspaces, 2001.Ontario Parks Association. www.opassoc.on.ca/toolkit.asp

1.3.11 Picnic Areas

POLICY

Public picnic areas including parking areas and entrancesshould be accessible to personsof all ages and disabilities.

• Some picnic tables andbenches should be locatednear accessible paths andwalkways for persons usingmobility aids.

• Accessible picnic tables orbenches should be availablein a variety of sunny andshady locations.

• The design of picnic tablesshould allow persons usingmobility aids to approach

them from one or both endsand provide adequate kneeand armrest clearance. (See Figures 47, 48 and 49)

• Garbage cans, barbecues and woodpiles etc., locatedadjacent to accessible picnic areas, should beapproachable and useable by persons using mobility aids.



685 mmMIN.

Figure 49

2030 mmMIN.

2030 mmMIN.

FIRM LEVEL GROUND

PICNIC TABLE

2030 mmMIN.

2030 mmMIN.

760 mmMIN.

Figure 48



• Grades in accessible picnicareas should be no greaterthan 1:30. (See Section1.1.4, Grades and ElevationChanges)

• Where public parking isavailable, at least four spacesfor the first 100 parkingspaces should be designed tobe accessible to persons withdisabilities.

• Some accessible parkingspaces should be locatedwithin 30 m of accessiblepicnic areas. (See alsoSection 1.2.5, Parking)

1.3.12 Sports, Fields, andSpectator Areas

POLICY

Public sports fields, parkingareas, entrances and spectatorareas should be accessible topersons with varying disabilities.

• Controlled access points(e.g., turnstiles), should bedesigned to accommodatethe free movement of wheelchairs or scooters viaan adjacent gate at minimum 915 mm wide. (See Figure 50)

• Level, accessible seatingareas should be providedbeside sports fields for bothspectators and athletes withdisabilities.

• For public viewing areas, See Section 1.3.15, ViewingAreas)

For Public Washrooms, Showers, and Changing Rooms (SeeSection 1.4, Outdoor Amenities)

1.3.13 Terraces and Patios

POLICY

Exterior terraces and patiosshould be accessible to personsusing mobility aids.

• Access from exterior doorsto interior areas should belevel or have slopedthresholds no greater than 13 mm.

• Where grade differences of 150 mm or less occur, short ramps of 1:7.5 can be created. Grade differencesmore than 150 mm, ramps of1:12 will be required. (See Section 1.1.4, Gradesand Elevation Changes)

1980 mmMIN.

2030 mmRECOMMENDED

A SEAT FOR THOSENEEDING TO REST

KEEP BRANCHES ANDOBSTRUCTIONS OUT OF THE WAY

1525 mm

Figure 51

1015 mm

915 mm

380 mm

Figure 50

• Terraces or patios should beof firm level materials laid todrain at slopes of not morethan 1:50. Joints inpatio/terrace materials shouldnot exceed 6 mm wide.

• Patios or terraces that are 600 mm or more above gradeshould have suitable guards.The top rail of such guardsor handrails should bedesigned so that a seated person can clearly see below the rail.

• Where patios or terraces are 205 mm to 460 mm abovegrade, a cane detectablestand up edge, 150 mm orhigher, should be provided.Alternatively, a planter boxor bench could be used as an aid to persons with visuallimitations.

• Where a number of patios or terraces are provided, some consideration of both windand sun protection is desirable for seniors or otherpersons who prefer to sit in a protected location.

1.3.14 Trails andFootbridges

POLICY

Where pedestrian or bicycletrails are provided, trailsshould be laid out with accessible pedestrian pathsand footbridges that are suitable for persons using various mobility aids. (See Figure 51)

• If trails include slopesgreater than 1:20, alternate

routes should be providednearby wherever possibleand should include steps andramps. (See Sections 1.1.9, Ramps and Section 1.1.10, Stairs and Steps)

• Where steps, ramps or footbridges are required, the surface of the bridge shouldbe of non-slip materials andthe bridge should includesuitable handrails and/orguards. (See Figure 53)(See Section 1.3.3,Boardwalks, Section 1.3.16,Wilderness and ConservationAreas and Section 1.6.6

Landscape Materials andPlanting)

• Slopes on bridges should notexceed 1:20 (5%).

1.3.15 Viewing Areas

• Where special viewing locations are provided (e.g., to view landmarks,special features, wildlife,entertainment and sportsactivities etc.), these areasshould be accessible to persons using wheelchairs,scooters or walkers. (See Figure 52)



DETECTABLE CURBHANDRAILEXTENSION

Figure 53

ACCESSIBLE VIEWING LOCATIONS OFF MAIN PATH HANDRAIL(SEE FIG. 7 & 8)

Figure 52



• Where special viewinginstruments (e.g., telescopes)are provided, then suchdevices should include lowered mounting heights suitable for use by children or persons in wheelchairs or scooters.

1.3.16 Waterfront Areas

POLICY

Waterfront areas (e.g., areas adjacent to lakes, ponds orstreams) in public parks,recreation facilities orwilderness locations, should be laid out to accommodatepersons using wheelchairs,scooters, and walkers, as well as persons with visual limitations.

• Ensure that accessible parking areas, entrances,paths and/or lookout areasare suitable for persons withvarying disabilities.

• Provide suitable seatingnearby. (See Sections 1.3.2,Outdoor Eating andEntertainment Spaces:Balconies and Terraces,Section 1.3.11, Picnic Areasand Section 1.4.1, Benchesand Seats)

• Ensure that accessible parking is provided in a convenient and nearby location. (See Sections1.3.3, Boardwalks andSection 1.3.14, Trails and Footbridges)

1.3.17 Wilderness andConservation Areas

POLICY

Wilderness areas open forpublic enjoyment shouldinclude accessible parkingareas, entrances, paths, trails,or footbridges that will accommodate persons using various mobility aids.

• Ensure that rest areas and/or lay-bys are provided withsuitable seating to accommodate seniors. (See Figure 54)

• Where special lookout locations or wildlife viewingareas are included, ensurethat clear signage is providednearby (e.g.: on the trail orpath).

• Where possible, provide atactile map (e.g., map with araised outline) of all trailsand features at the start ofthe trail and periodicallyalong the trail to benefit persons who have visual limitations. (See Figure 55)

SIGN PANEL WITH BRAILLEON EDGE IN UPPER LEFT CORNER

CONTRASTINGSURFACE TOIDENTIFY SIGNLOCATION

1000 mm MIN. ACCESSIBLE ROUTE

70º

800 mmMIN.

Figure 55

REST AREAS WITH SUITABLE SEATINGTO ACCOMMODATE SENIORS

Figure 54

POLICY

All amenities available to thepublic should be readily accessible and useable byeveryone, regardless of age or disability.1.4.1 Benches and Seats

• Exterior benches or seatsshould be located to one sideof public walkways or pathsand be mounted on a firmand level base, such as a concrete pad, brick paversetc. (See Figure 56)

• Fixed benches shouldinclude suitable back supports and arms to allowfor easy transfers, with a seat height between 405 mm and 460 mm. (See Figure 56)

• Space should be availablebeside the bench for at least one person using awheelchair or scooter with a minimum clearancearea of 1015 mm by 1220 mm.

1.4.2 Bicycle Racks

• Fixed bicycle racks shouldbe located to one side ofwalks, paths, or entrances soas not to impede the normalpath of travel or snow clear-ing activities etc. (See alsoSection 1.5.5, Snow Meltingand Snow Removal)

1.4.3 Drinking Fountains

• Where exterior public drinkingfountains are provided, theyshould be securely mounted,and ensure clear knee spacebelow of 700 mm, to allowcomfortable access by persons using mobility aids.(See Figure 57)

• Where drinking fountains arerecessed (e.g., in an alcove),the width of the knee spaceshould be at least 760 mm.

• The maximum height of the spout should be 915 mm and controls should be easily operable with one hand.

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES


200 mmMIN.

230 mmMIN.

230 mmMIN.

700 mmMIN.

760 - 915 mmMIN.

EQUIPMENT PERMITTEDIN SHADED AREA

Figure 57

PROVIDE AMPLEBACKREST

PROVIDE ARMREST FOR EASEOF INGRESS AND EGRESS

SIDE VIEW

FRONT VIEW

405 - 460 mm

360 - 460 mm

450 mm

150 mm

1015 mm

Figure 56

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES


1.4.4 Mail Boxes

• Exterior mail boxes, collection boxes, or routeboxes (See Figure 58) shouldbe mounted to one side ofthe sidewalk, path, orentrance to allow free, uninterrupted access alongthe path of travel and/or toentrance doors. (See Section 1.3.5, Community Mail Boxes)

1.4.5 Public Showers

• Where public showers are provided in exterior settings (e.g., as part of acampground, exterior swimming pool or otherrecreational facility), theyshould be designed to beaccessible to persons using various mobility aids.

• Floors of showers should beof firm and solid materiallaid to drain, with no lip,threshold, or step at entry,greater than 13 mm high.

1.4.6 Public Telephones

• Where public telephones are provided in exterior settings, at least one telephone should be designed to be wheelchairaccessible.

• No controls or coin slotsshould be mounted higherthan 1200 mm. (See Figure 59)

• Where telephone enclosuresor recesses are provided,they should be 760 mm widewith knee space below thephone shelf or equipment atleast 685 mm clear.

• Telephones should be mounted to one side of thepath of travel, clear of doorswings or other obstacles,with enough open space foraccess by persons usingmobility aids.

685 mmKNEECLEARANCE 1200 mm

HIGHESTOPERABLE PART

SHELF SPACEFOR TDD

HEIGHT OF TELEPHONE AND SHELF SPACE FOR TDD

CLEAR SPACE

SHELF SPACEFOR TDD

350 mmMIN.

480 mmMAX.

250 mmMIN.

250 mmMIN.

1220 mmMIN. 760 mm

Figure 59

C A N A D A

P O S T

P O S T E S

C A N A D A

Figure 58

• Lighting level at public telephones should be at least 100 lux. (10 ft. candles).

• Accessible public telephonesshould be clearly identifiedby the "International Symbol of Accessibility".(See Section 1.5.4, Signageand Way-finding)

• Where more than one telephone is provided, a telephone should be available that is capable of accommodating persons whoare deaf, deafened, or hard ofhearing (e.g., with anacoustic coupler, volumecontrol etc.), and be clearly identified with the "International Symbol"for persons who are deaf,deafened, or hard of hearing. (See Figure 59)

• Where several publictelephones are locatedside by side, a TTYdevice (Text Telephone)should be provided forpersons who are deaf,deafened or hard of hearing.



300 mmMIN.

600 mmMIN.

460 – 480 mm

1675 mmRECOMMENDED

1500 mmMIN.

460 mmMIN.

1500 mmMIN.

485 mmMAX.

1200 mmMIN.

Figure 61

1220 mmMIN.

1400 mmMIN.

1525 mmMIN.

CLEAR SPACE

CLEAR SPACE

CLEARSPACE

760 mmMIN.

1525 mmMIN.

Figure 61

OPERABLELATCH

D-TYPEDOOR PULL

REVERSED "L" SHAPEDTYPE GRAB BAR

460 - 480 mm

810 mmMIN.

200 - 300 mm

Figure 60

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES


1.4.7 Public Washrooms

Wherever possible a public,unisex/family washroom should be provided in everybuilding. Although some publicwashrooms may not be occupiedduring the entire year, the washrooms should be accessibleand should be designed in accordance with requirements of the Ontario Building Code,Section 3.8.

• Minimum dimensions of accessible stalls should be1500 mm minimum by a recommended width of 1675mm for use by persons withmobility aids or othersrequiring personal assistance(e.g., from attendants etc).An accessible unisex washroom should have no dimension less then 1700 mm. (See Figure 61)

• Provide a door to a stall having a minimum of 810 mm clear width, andclear space of 1220 mm infront of washroom doors toensure access. Provide an 860 mm wide door to the accessible unisex washroom.(See Figures 60 and 61)

• Install toilets with seats recommended to be no lowerthan 430 mm and no higherthan 460 mm.

• A minimum of one accessible stall for every 25 stalls is recommendedwhere public washrooms are provided.

• The preferred side grab baris the reversed “L” shapedtype.

• The preferred faucet on basins are of the automatic type.

• (See also Part 2: Section2.3.11, Public Washrooms,and Section 2.3.14,Washroom Accessories)

1.4.8 Street Furniture andVending Machines

POLICY

• All street furniture, includinglight standards, signs,planters, mail boxes andvending machines, should bemounted to one side of thenormal path of travel so as not to inhibit free movement of persons whohave visual limitations, orwho use mobility aids.

CONCRETESIDEWALK

STREETLINE

2030 mm

305 mm 305 mm 305 mm

610 mm1525 mm

Figure 62

• Wherever possible, street furniture such as lamps, mailboxes, vending equipment, etc., should bepositioned securely on a continuous separate amenity strip (beside sidewalks), or located to one side of accessible entrances. (See also Section 1.4.9,Waste Receptacles andRecycling Bins)

• Amenity strips should be a minimum of 610 mm wide, and be of a different paving material to the normal pathsof travel. (See Figure 62)

1.4.9 Waste Receptacles andRecycling Bins

POLICY

Waste receptacles and recycling bins should be accessible to persons usingvarious mobility aids and bepermanently located to oneside of any path or walkway soas not to encroach on walkwaywidth.

• In busy locations, wastereceptacles should be securely mounted and belarge enough to contain the anticipated amount of wasteso that overflows do notcause a tripping hazard. (See Figure 63)

• Waste receptacles in openareas such as parks, wilderness, beach or picnicareas should be securelymounted on firm level pads.

• Waste receptacles or holders containing waste bins shouldbe clearly identified by suitable signs and/or colours.

• Where lids are provided onwaste receptacles, theyshould be easy to operatewith one hand and have openings mounted no higherthan 1065 mm from grade.



1065 mm

WASTE RECEPTACLES, OF ALL TYPES, SHOULD BE FIRMLY MOUNTED ANDHAVE A SELF-CLOSING LID, WHICH IS EASY TO OPEN WITH ONE HAND

Figure 63

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS


POLICY:

• People with varying disabilities need assuranceand support in using exteriorroutes and facilities. Persons with limited vision or hearing who are dependent upon supplementary cues or information in the environment need to be able to find their way safelyfrom one location to another.Similarly, persons with limited mobility, who usecanes, walkers, wheelchairsor scooters need a clear, safe,and accessible route at alltimes of the year.

1.5.1 Crosswalk/PedestrianSignals

• Signals at pedestrian crosswalks should bedesigned generally in accordance with requirements of the HighwayTraffic Act and the OntarioTraffic Manual Book 12 – Traffic Signals. (See Figure 64)

• Both audible and flashingcrossing signals should beprovided as an aid to persons who have hearing or visual limitations.

• Audible pedestrian signalsshould be loud enough to beheard clearly above theambient noise (i.e.: at least15 decibels louder than ambient noise).

• Two different audible pedestrian signals, identifying when it is safe to cross either direction, (as indicated by a separatetone) are required for persons with visual disabilities.

• Where extended time isrequired to cross, (e.g., byseniors and persons with disabilities), a clearlymarked pedestrian buttonshould be available andmounted on a pole beside thecurb cut, at a maximumheight of 1065 mm.

• Tactile features should beprovided as an aid to personswho have both hearing andvision limitations. (ie. A tactile or vibro-tactile feature on pushbuttons.)

• In locations frequently usedby seniors or persons withdisabilities, crossing timingshould be provided to permitpedestrians, or wheelchairusers to cross safely.

STANDARD HEADTRAFFIC SIGNAL

HIGHWAY HEADTRAFFIC SIGNAL

PEDESTRIAN HEAD

RED

AMBER

GREEN

RED

AMBER

GREEN

Figure 64

1.5.2 Lighting for ExteriorAreas not including roads

• Exterior lighting should be designed generally inaccordance with I.E.S.N.A.(Illuminating EngineeringSociety of North America)standards, in all public thoroughfares and along all pedestrian routes to ensuresafe access for persons withdisabilities at sidewalks, busstops, or parking areas leading to public facilities oramenities. (See Figures 65and 66) Lighting levels of100 lux. (10 ft. candles)measured at the ground of all accessible pedestrianentrances are recommendedas an aid to persons withvisual disabilities.

• At frequently used pedestrianroutes (including paths,stairs, and ramps) recommended lighting levels should be 30 lux. (3 ft. candles).

• In accessible parking areas, lighting levels are recommended to be a minimum of 50 lux (5 ft. candles) at accessible parking spaces and alongaccessible routes from areasof parking to accessibleentrances.

• Lighting sources should beselected and located at, orbeside steps and stairs, toensure clear definition oftreads, risers, and nosings.

• All lighting over pedestrianroutes should be evenly distributed, provide a

reasonable colour spectrum, and minimizecast shadows for persons with low vision.

• Supplementary lightingshould be provided to highlight all key way-findingsignage.

• Lighting standards or posts should be mounted to oneside of pedestrian walkwaysso as not to inhibit freemovement of persons usingmobility aids.

• Low-level lighting standardsshould be tall enough toclear normal snow accumulation heights.

• Overhead light fixturesshould be mounted on standards that ensure clearheadroom of 2030 mm is available, below fixturesor supports, as an aid to persons with visual limitations.

• Lighting of landscape onspecial site features shouldbe designed and installed tominimize direct glare to both pedestrians and building users.

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS


LIGHTS BELOW 1525 mm ILLUMINATE SURFACE ONLYAND MUST NOT GLARE INTO PEOPLE'S EYES.

POSTS MUST BE MOUNTED HIGH ENOUGH TO CLEAR SNOW ACCUMULATION.

Figure 66

2100 mm

MAINTAIN HEIGHT, LIGHT CUT-OF ANGLE AND FIXTURE SPACINGTO ALLOW VISIBILITY OF PATHWAY AND USERS AND EVEN

LIGHT DISTRIBUTION AT THE WALKING SURFACE.

Figure 65



• This does not include lighting for roads andexpressways. TheTransportation Division ofWorks & EmergencyServices Department is currently developing aLighting Master Plan whichwill incorporate street lighting. It is anticipated that this Master Plan will be completed by the end of 2004.

1.5.3 Public AddressSystems

POLICY

Where public address systems are provided (e.g., atexterior recreation and/orentertainment facilities) everyattempt should be made toselect and install that minimizedistortion and provide a fullspectrum of sound.Loudspeakers should be located so as to cover thedesired area adequately without feedback and theyshould be mounted on posts to ensure that the output closeto speakers is at acceptablelevels for nearby audiencemembers.

• Where significant information (e.g. emergencyinformation) is to beannounced, a clear warningsignal should be providedbefore the announcement, to alert persons who are hard of hearing.

• Where large outdoor concerts are regularly performed (e.g. in the summer months), everyattempt should be made toinclude a FM loop (or othersuitable systems), for persons who are hearingimpaired. (See Figure 67)

1.5.4 Signage and Way-Finding

• A comprehensive exteriorsignage and way-finding system is required at everymajor site or facility, to assist visitors with varying disabilities to locate appropriate parking andaccessible entrances.

• The street address and/orbuilding/facility name shouldbe clearly visible from thestreet or public laneway.

• Lettering size should be legible at typical viewingdistances (e.g., from theroad, approach route, parkingarea, etc.).

• Signage generally should bein bold ‘sans-serif’ lettering(e.g., Helvetica) on a highlycontrasting background.

• Building addresses or identifying signage at streetlevel, whether it is mountedin landscaped areas or onposts, should be high enoughto be clearly visible evenwith snow piled nearby.

• Pedestrian, vehicular, and emergency routes should all be clearly identified.

• One-way routes should be clearly marked – both with paving markings and by post-mounted signs.

• The "International Symbol ofAccessibility" should be usedto identify special amenities,such as accessible parking,accessible entrances, oraccessible washrooms.

FM BROADCAST SYSTEM

NORMAL SOUND SYSTEM

MICROPHONE, CD, TAPE, TELEVISION, DVD, FILM, ETC.

SPEAKERS

FM RECEIVERFM TRANSMITTER

AMPLIFIER

Figure 67

1.5.5 Snow-melting andSnow Removal

POLICY

Where accessible entrances,ramps, or steps are exposed to prevailing winds and/orsnow-accumulation, icing, etc.,every attempt should be madeto ensure that the snow, ice orwater is quickly removed. (Seealso Sections 1.1.8, PedestrianRoutes and Section 1.1.10,Stairs and Steps)

• Sufficient catch basins andrun-offs should be providedto ensure rapid removal ofwater from melting snow orice from all pedestrianroutes.

• At entrance canopies or at accessible entrances, consider the use of radiantheating to automaticallyclear ice and snow, wheretimely maintenance andsnow clearing may be problematic.

• Snow removal strategies and designated snow accumulation areas should be arranged so that no accessible pedestrian routes are inhibited by snow.

1.5.6 Traffic Signals

POLICY

The majority of elderly persons, as well as personswith various disabilities, needmore time to make a safecrossing at traffic lights thanthe average adult. Persons who are blind, as well as those withlow vision, may also needassurance that they are crossing at the right time andin the right direction. As aresult, both timing of trafficlights, as well as the provisionof audible and visual cues as to when lights change, areessential. (See also Section1.1.2, Crosswalks) (See Figure 68)

• Traffic light timing at specific sites should beadjustable to suit not onlythe volume of vehicular traffic, but also the volumeof pedestrian traffic.

• Timing of lights for frequently used pedestriancrossings should beadjustable so that the walking speed of personswith disabilities, or seniors,can be accommodated safely.

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS


RED

AMBER

GREEN

RED

AMBER

RED

AMBER

Figure 68



• Audible pedestrian signals indicating when it is safe to walk should operate consistently with visiblepedestrian signals. Thesound of signals should becapable of being heard aboveambient traffic noise. Signalsounds should differentiatedirectional crossings (e.g.,east to west signal should differ from north to southsignals).

• Where high use or specialized community facilities (e.g., Senior’sCentres) are served bypedestrian crossings, crossing signals should becapable of being activated by pedestrians waiting to cross.

• Tactile features should beprovided as an aid to personswho have both hearing andvision limitations. (ie. A tactile or vibro-tactile feature on a pushbutton.)

• Buttons for pedestrian initiated calls should belocated in a constant location, on posts set in levelsurfaces that are identifiedby textured paving, for persons with visual limitations. The button itself should be mounted at a constant height of 1065 mm and be easily identifiable by colour andprofile. Push button shouldprovide a locator tone.

• No obstacles, poles, bins,signs etc., should be locatedon the level approach area orwithin 990 mm of the normalpedestrian approach to thecall button location. (See Figure 69)

Figure 69

BUTTON OFCONTRASTING COLOUR

WALK-THROUGH ISLANDFOR WIDE STREETS

EXTEND PEDESTRIAN CROSSING, DEFINED,AND SIGNALS TIMED FOR

THE SLOWER WALKERS TO INCREASE THE SAFETY OF THE STREET.

AT GRADE

EXTENDEDCROSSING

(BEST)

TRAFFIC SIGNAL HEAD AUDITORY PEDESTRIAN

SIGNAL

1220 mmMIN.

1065 mm

RAMP WITH UNIQUE PAVING(RAMP MAY BE OFFSET)

VISUAL AND TEXTURAL MARKING(SEE SECTION 1.1.2 CROSSWALKS)

Figure 69

POLICY

For persons who are dependent on visual and tactilecues (e.g. colour and texture),such information should beincluded in the design of thebuilt environment for safe navigation.

1.6.1 Colour and Texture

POLICY

In developing exterior colourschemes, every attempt shouldbe made to ensure that bothcolour intensity and contrastwith adjacent colours are utilized (e.g., to define boundaries of objects orto distinguish lettering fromtheir background colour).Generally, for seniors and persons with low vision,colours in the warm end of the spectrum (i.e., yellow, orange, and bright red), are more easilyrecognizable than those in thecool end of the spectrum.

• Signage should generally bedesigned using highly visible and contrasting colours (e.g., white or yellow on a black, charcoal, or other dark back-ground such as brown, darkblue, dark green, or purple).Black lettering on white oryellow matte surfaces is alsoacceptable. Unacceptablebackground colours are: light grey or pastels. (See Figure 70)

• Colour/Tone contrast of approximately 70% lightreflectance should be provided on signage.

All finishes should be mattein order to minimize glare.

• Colour contrast should alsobe used to define edges orboundaries of objects (e.g.,stair nosings, the head andfoot of an escalator or ramps,or colour differentiatedhandrails). In high usespaces, colour or tone contrastshould also be used to definethe boundaries of a room(e.g., at the junction

between walls and floors), asan aid to orientation.

• Colour may also be used to provide constant information (e.g., the location of exitdoors, for example, by painting all exit doors in thesame distinctive colour).Applied colour may also bean added advantage (e.g., toindicate the termination ofhandrails in large openareas).

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS 1.6 OTHER


CERAMIC MOSAIC JOINTS PROVIDEGOOD FRICTION FOR WHEELCHAIRS

(TILE AREA MUST BE LEVEL, AVOIDWIDE OR DEEP JOINTS)

AVOID LEVEL CHANGE MORE THAN 13mm

AVOID LEVEL CHANGES OF ANY HEIGHT(EVEN IF RAMPED) WHEN FLOOR IS SLIPPERY

AVOID GRILLES IN FLOOR WHEREVERPOSSIBLE; WHERE USED, MAXIMUMOPENING IS 13mm IN ANY DIRECTION

ONE DIRECTION GRATES SHOULD HAVEBARS PERPENDICULAR TO DIRECTIONOF TRAVEL

13 mmMAX.

13 mmMAX.

Figure 71

HIGH CONTRAST BETWEEN FIGURE AND BACKGROUND WILL INCREASE READABILITY OF SIGNS

Figure 70

PART 1:EXTERIOR AREAS1.6 OTHER


• Textured surfaces are recommended to provide an indication to persons withvisual limitations that apotential hazard is nearby.Typical hazards are; levelchanges at ramps and stairs.In such cases, a texturedpaving strip, at least onepace deep - 915 mm, is recommended at the head ofstairs or ramps, or whereverwalking hazards may exist.(See Figure 71)

• All textured surfaces used as warning devices should be cane-detectable and clearly differentiated from surrounding paving surfaces.Throughout any one site, thesame texture should be usedto denote hazards. Suitabletextures include: saw-cutconcrete with regulargrooves positioned no morethan 50 mm apart, with thegrooves being perpendicularto the path of travel.

1.6.2 Construction SiteProtection

• Construction sites shouldhave suitable boundary protection to minimize hazards to persons with visual limitations and tomaintain easy access for persons using various mobility aids. (See Figure 72)

• Construction hoardingsshould be firmly constructedwith supports and bracingwhich permits free movement by pedestrians or persons using variousmobility aids.

• Overhead framing or bracing should ensure clearheadroom of at least 1980mm above the sidewalk but2030 mm is recommended.

• Cane detectable temporary barriers should be provided around all short-term repairsites (e.g. sidewalk repairs,manhole access covers etc.), as an aid to persons whohave visual limitations. (See Figure 73)

• At all construction sitesand/or maintenance locations, wherever a clearpedestrian route of 1100 mmis not achievable via the normal route, alternative safeand level pedestrian routesshould be provided with suitable protection fromvehicular traffic.

THIS BARRIER SERVES THE SAME PURPOSE AS THE SAW HORSEBUT IS CANE DETECTABLE FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED TRAVELLERS

Figure 73

1980 mm

2030 mm RECOMMENDED

THIS MODIFICATION TO THE BARRIER ALLOWS IT TO BE DETECTEDBY THE LONG CANE AND THUS PREVENTS POSSIBLE CONTACT

AT HEAD LEVEL BY THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED PERSON.

CONSTRUCTION SITE PROTECTION

Figure 72

• Where hoardings with public viewing ports are provided, atleast one viewing port shouldbe mounted at no more than1220 mm on center, for use bypersons using mobility aids.

1.6.3 Freestanding Objects

POLICY

Freestanding objects should be located to one side of normal pedestrian routes without limiting the width of the normal route or causing a hazard to persons with visuallimitations.

• Permanent objects such as bollards, bicycle racks,benches, bus shelters, newspaper vending boxes,mail boxes, hydrants, lightstandards etc., should all be placed to one side of designated pedestrian routes,preferably in well designedamenity strips or in plannedlocations or recesses that areclose to active areas of use.(See also Section 1.4,Outdoor Amenities andFigure 74)

• Temporary objects such as queuing lines, sales booths,loose garbage receptacles,etc., should be located to oneside of the normal pedestrianroute. (See Figure 75)

• Guy wires, and other bracesor supports for trees, postsetc., should be located sothey do not constitute a hazard for persons with visual limitations.



915 mmMIN.

Figure 75

STREET

STREET/PROPERTY

LINE

300 mm 205 mm300 mm

1220 mm 1015 mm

610 mm2440 mm

3050 mmBOULEVARD

3050 mmBOULEVARD

TOOLED JOINT(TYPICAL)

BICYCLE RACKS

GARBAGECONTAINER

TREE AREA

TREE AREA

Figure 74



1.6.4 Garbage Handling

POLICY

Waste receptacles should ideally be mounted in selectedlocations and to one side ofpedestrian routes, so as not toconstitute a hazard for personswith visual limitations. (See also Section 1.4.9, Waste Receptacles and Recycling Bins)

• Waste receptacles, containers,or boxes, (including recyclingboxes), should be largeenough to contain the anticipated quantity of wastein any one location.

• All waste receptacles (exceptlarge industrial containers)should be accessible to persons using mobility aids.

• Waste receptacles in landscaped areas, recreation,and picnic areas, should bedesigned to be unobtrusive,but be clearly identified bysuitable colours or signage,as an aid to persons whohave visual limitations.

• The paving around waste receptacles should be level, firm, free draining and easy to wash down.

• Where covered waste recep-tacles are used, the coversshould be useable with onehand.

• Temporary constructionscows or large mobile industrial containers shouldbe located away from normalpedestrian routes.

• Where wall-mounted orrecessed waste receptaclesare used, bin liners should beeasy to remove.

• Vehicular access routes togarbage containers for maintenance purposes should not cross normalpedestrian routes.

1.6.5 Gates and Openings

• Where gates or openings are provided throughfences/screens to public useareas beyond, such openingsshould be accessible and be a minimum recommended915 mm wide to allow free-passage of persons using mobility aids. Gatehardware should be suitablefor autonomous use and closing devices should not be spring-loaded.

• Where turnstiles or otherticketing devices are notaccessible, a nearby gate oropening accessible to persons using mobility aidsis required.

1.6.6 Landscape Materialsand Planting

POLICY

Landscape materials, trees,shrubs, and plants should beselected and located with awide variety of disabled usersin mind. For instance, plantsand shrubs with a variety offragrances can provide aninteresting diversion forpersons with visual limitations,whereas plants with thorns orheavy berries may constitute awalking hazard and shouldtherefore be avoided in activepedestrian locations.

1980 mmMIN.

2030 mmRECOMMENDED

Figure 76

• Consider providing someplanter beds at 460 mm highabove grade to allow easyaccess by seniors and persons using mobility aids.

• Provide defined planting bededges adjacent to busypedestrian walks, a minimumof 100 mm high, as an aid topersons with visual limitations.

• Provide defined edges at trail boundaries wherever the adjacent grade is variable.

• Trim overhanging branchesof trees or shrubs, locatedover walkways or paths, toensure that the headroomover the walking space is aminimum of 1980 mm (2030 mm recommended)and the normal walking areais clear of branches, thornsetc. (See Figure 76)

1.6.7 Materials and Finishes

POLICY

Suitable paving surfaces forwalkways include macadam, concrete, interlocking brick orpatio stones, providing thejoints are no greater than 6 mm wide and level variationsare no more than 6 mm high.This will minimize trippinghazards and uncomfortable conditions for users of mobilityaids.

• All paving should be laid todrain easily.

• Gratings or grills should generally be located to oneside of pedestrian walkways,

however, where they areinevitable, then the bars ofthe grating or grill should belocated at right angles to thenormal path of travel, with

openings no greater than 13 mm. (See Figures 71, 77,78 & 79)

• All steps should be of non-slip materials with highly contrasted nosings.




GRATING

PAVER CONCRETE COLLARAND FRAME

13 mmMAX.

Figure 78


SURFACE OF WALKWAY

PAVER

13 mmMAX.

6 mmMAX.

Figure 77



• All ramp surfaces should befirm and non-slip (e.g.:broom finish on concrete or wood decking laid perpendicular to path of travel).

• Handrails and guardrailsshould be continuous,smooth and well maintained.(See also Section 1.1.5,Guards and Handrails)

• Walls adjacent to ramps or stairs should be in non-abrasive finishes.

• Smooth walking surfaces are preferred. Where interlocking pavers are used,they should be laid on a firm,well-compacted backing (e.g., concrete base).

1.6.8 Maintenance

POLICY

All active pedestrian routesshould be well maintained topermit safe circulation by seniors, persons who havevisual limitations and personsusing various mobility aids.

• All key pedestrian routes to accessible entrances and/orexits should be kept free ofice and snow in wintermonths.

• Snow clearing strategiesshould be developed so thataccumulated snow poses nohazard to persons with visual limitations or who usevarious mobility aids. (Seealso Section 1.5.5, SnowMelting and Snow Removaland Section 1.6.11 SnowAccumulation and Removal)

• Where paths are not cleared regularly, suitable signage should be utilized.

• All garbage containersshould be emptied regularlyto avoid the accumulation ofextraneous garbage aroundthe containers.

• All light bulbs along pedestrian routes should bereplaced on a regular schedule, with lamps (of thesame wattage) for whichthey were designed.

• All gates, closers, automatic door operators, porch lifts, automatic ticket machines or other essential equipmentshould be inspected and well maintained on a regularschedule.

1.6.9 Obstacle Removal

Regular and systematic checksshould be undertaken toensure that no obstacles havebeen located in pedestrianroutes (e.g., newspapervending machines and bicycleracks or garbage containers). (See Figure 80)

915 mmMIN.

Figure 80

TEXTUREDSURFACE

150 mmMIN. WIDE

TEXTURE STRIP

915 mmMIN.

MOVABLEFURNITURE STRIP

Figure 79

1.6.10 Safety and Security

POLICY

Today, in urban, suburban and rural sites, seniors and personswith disabilities are consciousof their own vulnerability andtherefore tend to seek morereassurance and inherent security than in the past.

• Ensure that adequate lightingis provided over public walkways, steps and rampsas well as where public parking is provided. (See Figure 81)

• Pedestrian walkways shouldbe designed to provide clearlines of sight to ensure personal safety whereverpossible.

• Provide a call bell or a two-way communicationdevice at the main accessibleentrance.

• Provide a call bell or two-way communicationdevice in enclosed publicparking areas where accessible parking is provided.

• Provide an accessible public telephone at or in close proximity to the main accessible entrance for persons waiting for a ride or for persons requiringemergency assistance.

• Consider the use of personal alarm devices for those whoneed assistance, or provide aclearly visible and accessibletwo-way voice communicationsystem (e.g., in locationswhere a number of personswith disabilities or seniorsare likely to be congregated permanently or for specialevents). A central monitoring location toreceive such calls will alsobe required.

• Consider the inclusion of a two-way call system or other suitable emergency call system linked to a centrallocation (e.g., office orswitchboard) from any accessible unisex washroomsin larger public buildingssuch as hospitals, schools or recreation facilities, forpersons who may requireassistance.

• Develop a comprehensive‘Emergency Plan,’ whichaddresses the needs of persons with varying disabilities, as well as frailseniors, for exiting large outdoor recreational facilitiesor other places where crowd-control is likely to bean issue.



PARKING

SECURITYLIGHTING

ZONE

ACCENT LIGHTING AT ENTIRES,DROP-OFF, AND PATIOS

ACCENT LIGHTING AT KEY DECISION-MAKING POINTSFACILITATES WAYFINDING AS WELL AS SAFETY

BUILDING

Figure 81



1.6.11 Snow Accumulationand Removal

POLICY

Snow, ice accumulation and/ordrifting snow is a majorproblem at entrances and in all exterior pedestrian routesduring the winter months,especially for persons usingmobility aids or persons withvisual limitations.

• Regularly used pedestrianroutes from the site boundaryto the main entrance or otheraccessible entrances shouldbe kept clear of snow and iceduring the winter months.

• Snow accumulating atentrances, on essential rampsor stairs, or other primarypaths of travel, should beremoved completely aftereach snowfall.

• Provide designated areas forsnow piling from all majorroutes and public parkingareas away from pedestrianroutes, (See Figure 82)and consider the use of radiant heating in all frequently used entranceareas and exterior ramps.

SNOW CLEARING FROM ACCESSIBLE PARKING SPACESAND THE ACCESSIBLE ROUTE IS ESSENTIAL

Figure 82

PART 2: INDOOR AREAS


PART 2:INDOOR AREAS2.1 ENTRANCES


PRINCIPLE

All interior routes from accessible entrances to accessible exits should be safeand easy to use by personswith varying disabilities,including persons requiringmobility aids, and persons withvision or cognitive limitations. Such routesshould be clearly identifiedand logical in layout.

2.1.1 Canopies and WeatherProtection

• All main entrances and otheraccessible entrances shouldbe protected by a suitablecanopy or overhang.

• Where canopies project over passenger boarding zones, provide a minimum headroom clearance of 2750 mm, however 3555 mm is recommended to accommodate special transitvehicles, or 2895 mm is recommended to accommodate adapted vans used by persons withdisabilities. (See Figure 84)

• Where balconies are provided, (e.g., as part ofa residential or hospitalityenvironment), they should be designed to permit optimum use throughout the year by seniors and persons with disabilities and include adequate protection fromwind, rain and sun. (Seealso Part 1, Section 1.3.2,Outdoor Eating andEntertainment Spaces,Balconies and Terraces)

2750 mmMIN.

3555 mmRECOMMENDED

Figure 84

2.1.2 Doors and Doorways

• Main entrance doors andother accessible entrance andexit doors should be a minimum of 915 mm wide to allow safe passage of persons who use mobilityaids.

• One accessible entrance isrequired for buildings having1 to 3 entrances and 2 accessible entrances forbuildings having more than 3 to 5 entrances. No "lessthan 50 percent accessibleentrances are required forbuildings having more than 5 entrances. User specific situations would be evaluated in a case by case basis.

• Where pairs of doors are utilized, at least one leafshould provide a clear opening of 810 mm wide.

• Accessible entrance doorsand related vestibule doorsshould be automatic or havepower-assisted door openers.

• Where automatic doors open towards users with disabilities, the swing patternof such doors should bedefined by a highly contrasting and textured surface (or mat) at grade,which projects a minimum of 305 mm beyond the door swing. Alternatively,suitable guards, which project a minimum of 305 mm beyond the doorswing, should be provided asan aid to persons with visuallimitations.

A minimum 305 mm clearance should be providedbetween the guard and theopened door. (See Figure 85)

• Consider the use of automatic sliding glass doorsat busy entrances that are not designated exits.

• In buildings where there is a significant amount of glazingat grade, it is recommendedthat door frames be clearlycolour differentiated to aid inlocating the entrance. (See Figure 86)

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS 2.1 ENTRANCES


900 mm400 mm

305 mm

Figure 86

900 mm

1220 mm

610 mmMAX.

305 mmMIN.

305 mm

Figure 85



2.1.3 Door Hardware, Locksand Closers

• Automatic door openers are recommended wherever possible.

• Push buttons or card access controls used to open doorsshould be located away fromthe door swing and theyshould be mounted on wallsor posts, at a height between1000 mm and 1100 mmmeasured to the centre of the control.

• Preferred push button 150 mm diameter is recommended.

• Doors in a series (e.g., in avestibule) should be a minimum of 2135 mm apartand/or the clear floor areabetween door swings shouldbe no less than 1200 mm.

• Door hardware, includingpulls and push plates, shouldbe generally mountedbetween 915 mm and 1065 mm from grade.

• All door opening hardwareon entrance, vestibule, androom doors should be easy tograsp and use (e.g., of thelever handled type). (See Figure 87)

• Hardware for closet doors, drawer pulls etc., should beof the simple ‘D’ type (i.e., a continuous and easy to grasp handle), 75 mm – 100 mmlong. (See Figure 88)

• Door locks should be mounted between 760 mm and 1065 mm high.

• Select sliding door hardwarethat is easy to grasp and useand does not reduce theeffective clear opening widthbelow 810 mm. (See Figures 87, 88 andSection 2.1.7 Thresholds)

• Where out-swinging doorsmust be closed to preserveprivacy (e.g. on washroomdoors), an additional pullhandle, mounted horizontallyand close to the hinge side ofthe door, is recommended.

Figure 88

Figure 87

2.1.4 Entrances

• Accessible entrances provide direct access to personsusing wheelchairs or scootersand are also frequently usedas waiting areas for personsrequiring assistance (e.g.,waiting for a ride from"special transit, taxis, familymembers, attendants or others). (See Figure 89)

• There should be enoughwaiting space inside themain accessible entrance,either in the vestibule oradjacent lobby, for at leasttwo persons using wheelchairs. Such waitingareas should provide a clearview of the entrance andarrival area for taxis, buses or private vehicles.

• Accessible entrances should provide basic protectionfrom the weather and includedoors and vestibules that areuseable autonomously bypersons with varying disabilities.

• Where accessible entrancesinclude security locks orother locking devices, a nearby call bell (or information telephone)should be available for persons requiring information or assistance.

• In public buildings, an accessible public telephoneshould be available near theaccessible entrance to provide seniors and personswith varying disabilities with suitable telephoneaccess (e.g., calling for a taxi or a ride).



PASSENGER DROP-OFFLOADING ZONE

ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCEPROVIDES DIRECT ACCESS TO

INTERIOR, AND VESTIBULE CANBE USED AS A WAITING AREA.

Figure 89



2.1.5 Glazed Screens andSidelights

• Fully glazed sidelights atexterior entrances or in interior vestibules, as well as fully glazed screens elsewhere, should be clearly identifiable so as not to constitute a hazardfor persons with visual limitations.

• A row of bright decals or a continuous opaque stripe, a minimum of 50 mm wideand of highly contrastingcolour, should be mounted ateye level, between 1350 mmand 1500 mm from the finished floor.

• Decals should be located at a maximum of 150 mm on center and can be either 50 mm square or roundand/or of a special design(e.g., a company logo), providing the solid portion of the logo is sufficiently bold for easy identification by persons with visual limitations.

• Where etched or patternedglass is used, decals or a stripe of a highly contrasting colour, are still recommended.

• Partially glazed doors should have glazed panels thatextend low enough to allowpersons using mobility aidsto see what is on the far sideof the door (i.e., maximumheight from grade 900 mm to lower edge of glazing). (See Figure 90)

250 mmMAX.

50 mmMIN.

75 mmMIN.

900 mmMAX.

1500 mmMAX.

250 mmMAX.

250 mmMAX.

OPAQUE STRIPOR DECALS

1350 mmMIN.

1500 mmMAX.

Figure 90

2.1.6 Mats and MatSinkages

• Mats at entrances and investibules should be levelwith the floor and/or locatedin mat sinkages, so as not tocreate a tripping hazard forpersons who have visual limitations or a hindrance to persons using mobility aids.

• Where occasional mats (e.g., runners provided during badweather) are used, theyshould be level with the floorsurface and/or have gentlybeveled edges so as not to create a tripping hazard. (See Figure 91)

• Where runners are used to define preferred walkingroutes to information counters, elevators etc., such as in main entrance and lobby areas, they shouldlead directly to the desiredobjective with no furniture orobstacles intruding into therequired route. Runnersshould be as continuous as possible and colour/tone differentiated from the adjacent floor colour.

2.1.7 Thresholds

• Thresholds required to accommodate floor level or finish changes to exteriorareas (e.g., terraces and balconies), should be gentlybeveled and not exceed 13 mm in height.

• Thresholds at interior doorways should be beveledand not exceed 13 mm inheight. (See Figure 92)



13 mmMAX.

ALL INTERIOR THRESHOLDS,INCLUDING THOSE WITH DIFFERENTFLOORING MATERIALS ON EITHER SIDE,SHOULD NOT EXCEED 13mm IN HEIGHT,TO ALLOW EASY WHEELCHAIR MOVEMENT.

DOOR

Figure 92

13 mmMAX.

13 mmMAX.

AVOID MATS AND/OR RUGS THICKER THAN 13mm,OR WHICH ARE RECESSED MORE THAN 13mm

Figure 91



2.1.8 Vestibules

• See Section 2.1.2, Doors andDoorways for vestibules at accessible entrances.

• Interior vestibules to washrooms or other specialareas should be fully accessible to persons usingmobility aids. All vestibules, corridors, or aisle widthsshould be a minimum of1100 mm wide to allow persons using mobility aidsto turn at right anglesthrough door openings.

• Vestibule depths should provide at least 1200 mmfloor space, clear of doorswings and/or other obstacles, for manoeuvringof mobility aids.

• Where interior doors swingtowards the person using a wheelchair, at least 600 mm clear space should be available at the jamb, on theopening edge of the door, toallow persons using mobilityaids easy access to the door.(See Figure 93 and Section2.1.2, Doors and Doorways)

• Where doors swing awayfrom the person using amobility aid, at least 300 mm clear space shouldbe available adjacent to thejamb on the opening edge ofthe door (See Figure 93), forease of use by persons usingmobility aids.

2.1.9 Waiting Areas

• For persons requiring information services or assistance, waiting areaswith loose furniture should be large enough toaccommodate at least twopersons using wheelchairs orscooters, in addition to othermembers of the public.

• Waiting areas with fixedseating should includeenough clear space for aminimum of two personsusing wheelchairs or scooters.

1200 mm

1200 mm

300 mm

1500 mm

1200 mm

1200 mm

600 mm

Figure 93

POLICY

Persons who have mobility limitations require all public interior circulation routes,whether horizontal or vertical,to be wide enough to accommodate various mobilityaids. Persons who have visuallimitations need safe routesthroughout buildings, with no unexpected level changes orobstructions that are potentially hazardous to them.Seniors and others with limited strength andendurance may requirehandrail support and/orresting places in long corridorsor paths of travel.

2.2.1 Aisles and Passages

• In high use public areas,aisles and passageways, aminimum of 1675 mm wideis recommended to allowtwo persons using wheelchairs or scooters to

pass each other easily. 1200 mm width is required to allow one person using a wheelchair and one ambulatory person to pass.(See Figure 94)

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS 2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES


1200 mmMIN.

760 mmMIN.

1500 mm

WHEEL CHAIR DIMENSIONS

Figure 96Figure 95

1200 mmMIN.

Figure 94

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES


• In low use areas and officesetc., clear aisle space andpassageways between walls,glazed screens, furnitureand/or other major obstacles should be a minimum of 1100 mm to accommodate users of mobility aids.

• Wherever aisles that are1100 mm wide are extensivein length or terminate in adead end, a turning space ofat least 1600 mm by 1600 mm should be availableat 30 m intervals and recommended at dead end locations.

2.2.2 Corridors and Hallways

• It is recommended that high use accessible publiccorridors and paths of travelshould be a minimum of1100 mm wide, with turningspaces at least 1600 mm in diameter, every 20 m, to permit the free movement of persons using mobility aids. (See Figures 95, 96, 97 &98)

• Corridors in all institutional facilities such as hospitals,nursing homes and homesfor the aged, should complywith Ministry of Healthguidelines.

• Corridors serving residentialsuites should be a minimumof 1100 mm wide. Turninglocations should not begreater than 30 m apart andare recommended at ends ofcorridors. (See Figure 99)

• Hallways within accessible residential or overnightsuites, as well as aisles inpublic areas and workspacesetc., should be a minimum of1065 mm wide.

• Additional space should be available where personsusing mobility aids mustmanoeuvre around obstaclesin corridors or hallways.(See Figure 99)

• Wherever extended length corridors are provided, consideration should begiven to the inclusion of asuitable and colour contrasted handrail, on at least one side of the corridor, as an aid toseniors and persons with limited mobility.

1100 mm 1200 mmOR LESS

1100 mm

1100 mm

OBSTACLE

Figure 99

TYPICAL SCOOTER DIMENSIONS

Figure 98Figure 97

660 mm

TYPICAL SCOOTER D

1345 mm

• In extended length corridors of 40 m or more,consideration should begiven to the provision of a bench or other seating, located at intermediate points along the corridor for seniorsand others with limitedmobility.

2.2.3 Doors and Doorways

• Doors, doorways or arched openings should be a minimum of 915 mm wide,with no opening less than860 mm clear betweenobstructions.

• For fully and partially glazeddoors, (See Section 2.1.5, Glazed Screens andSidelights).

• Where fire doors or smokedoors are required in anycorridor hallway, they shouldbe a minimum of 915 mmwide, and provide a clearwidth between stops of 860 mm. (See Figure 100)

• To ensure free movementthrough public buildings, itis generally recommendedthat required fire and smokebarrier doors be installed onelectrical hold-open devicesso that the doors only closewhen the fire alarm is activated.

• The opening force requiredfor interior doors, usingclosers or other automaticlatching devices should notexceed 22 Newtons.

• Exterior doors, whichinclude panic hardware,should be capable of beingopened with a force no greater than 38 Newtons.

2.2.4 Elevators and Platform Lifts

POLICY

Where needed, elevators and passenger platform lifts shouldbe designed to be useable independently by and accessible to persons usingwheelchairs and scooters,in all public facilities. The provision of ramps is stronglypreferred over platform lifts.(See Figure 126)

• Elevators and platform liftsshould comply with the mostrecent CAN/CSA B355Standards "Lifts for Personswith Physical Disabilities".

• Passenger elevating devicesshould comply with the mostrecent CAN/CSA StandardsB44, "Safety Code forElevators,"

• Controls/buttons shouldinclude tactile information toensure easy use by personswho have visual limitations.Controls/buttons should beeasy to reach and push, beraised and require minimalstrength to activate. (SeeFigure 101, also Section2.4.6, Controls andOperating Mechanisms)



1500 mm

860 mm600 mm

1500 mm

Figure 100



• A delay button should beavailable both in the cab andin each elevator lobby toallow boarding by personswho are slower than usual, asa result of ageing or disability.

• In both high-rise residentialand institutional facilitiesserving seniors or peoplewith disabilities, at least oneelevator should be capable ofaccommodating a stretcher,with a minimum platformsize of 1725 mm by 2285 mm. (See Figure 102)

• Individual platform liftsrequired to travel betweenlevels not exceeding 1980mm shall have a platformsize of no less than 1065 mm by 1370 mm. (See figure 103)

• Elevators and platform lifts used by persons withdisabilities should include an emergency call systemlinked to a monitored location within the building,with 2-way voice communication capability.

• Install a concave mirror atthe back of the elevator cab.

• Lighting in elevator cabs and at platform lifts is recommended to be no lessthan 100 lux (10 ft. candles)measured at the floor level.The same lighting levelshould be provided in adjacent lobby space to minimize tripping hazards atdoor openings (See Section2.4.11, Artificial Lighting).

2.2.5 Interior Ramps

• The provision of ramps isstrongly preferred over platform lifts.

• Interior ramps should have a maximum slope of 1 in 12, however, a slope of 1 in 15is preferred. (See Part 1:Section 1.2.1, AccessibleRoutes to Entrances andFigure 22)

• The maximum length of anyramp is 9 m between levellanding areas.

2285 mm

915 mm

1725 mm

Figure 103Figure 102

CONTROLPANEL

PORCH LIFT

Figure 101

1065 mm

915 mm

1370 mm

• Where short ramps arerequired, e.g., for level differences of 150 mm, the ramp slope may be evaluated on case by casebasis.

• Ramp surfaces should benon-slip.

• The width between handrailsshould be not less than 900 mm and not more than1100 mm. It is recommendedthat the width betweenhandrails should be a minimum of 1015 mm.

• Handrails are required onboth sides of ramps andshould extend at least 300 mm beyond the headand foot of the ramp. (See Part 1: Section 1.1.9, Ramps, and Figure 16)

• Provide a cane-detectablefloor surface 765 mm deep atthe head and foot of allramps to alert persons whohave visual limitations.

• The cane-detectable surfaceshould be colour or tone contrasted with surroundingfloor to ensure easy identification.

2.2.6 Safe Holding Areas

POLICY

Where a safe holding area is included as part of the emergency plan for personswith disabilities, such holdingareas should be able to accommodate a number of persons using various mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs orscooters) and:

• Be located in logical locations on each floor,above or below grade, thatare easy to identify by persons who have visual limitations and be accessibleto wheelchair and scooterusers.

• Have separate emergencylighting and ventilation systems. A two-way voicecommunication systemlinked to the fire control center should also be provided.



1980 mmMIN.

(2030 mmRECOMMENDED)

680 mmMIN.

PROTECT THIS AREAFROM CROSS TRAFFIC

Figure 104



2.2.7 Stairs and Steps

POLICY

Stairs and steps in all normal public routes and paths oftravel should be safely useableby persons with limited mobility, e.g., cane users. The following criteria are recommended. (Note: OBC standards should be considered an absolute minimum). (See 1.1.10 Stairs & Steps)

• Stair treads should be a minimum recommended of 280 mm.

• Stair risers should be a maximum recommended height of 180 mm.

• Interior stairs or flights ofsteps should contain no lessthan 3 risers. Where theunderside of stairs is open, a cane detectable barriershould be provided when the headroom clearance is less than 1980 mm (2030 mm is recommended),as protection for personswho have visual limitations. (See Figure 104)

• A highly contrasting and cane-detectable floor surfaceat least 915 mm deep, shouldbe located at the head or footof each flight of steps orstairs to warn persons whohave visual limitations that alevel change is pending.

• For handrail and guarddimensions etc., (See Figure105 and Part 1: Section 1.1.5Guards and Handrails)

• Handrails or guards shouldbe contrasting in colour andproject a minimum of 300 mm beyond the top andbottom riser to aid personswho have visual limitations.

2.2.8 Turnstiles and Control Gates

• Wherever turnstiles or other crowd control gates are usedto manage the movement ofpeople, such turnstilesshould either be of breakaway design to accommodate persons usingwheelchairs/scooters or havean adjacent access gate thatis wide enough to allow thepassage of persons usingwheelchairs/scooters or other mobility aids.

• Clearances at turnstiles orgates should be a minimumof 860 mm clear width.

30-50 mm

40 mm MIN. CLEARANCE FORSMOOTH WALL SURFACES

64 mm MIN. RECOMMENDED FORROUGH WALL SURFACES

450 mmMIN.

Figure 105

POLICY

All amenities in spaces used by the public or staff should be accessible and useable bypersons with varying disabilities.

2.3.1 Coat Closets and Coat Racks

In public facilities and institutional settings, access to coat closets or racks is needed, especially in the winter months.

• In each major area or oneach floor, provide at leastone section of coat hangingspace that is reachable anduseable by persons usingmobility aids such as wheelchairs/scooters. Note: approximately 10% ofall coat space storage shouldbe accessible and free ofobstacles. (See Figure 106)

• Accessible closets and coatracks should have coat rodsand/or coat hooks fixedsecurely and mountedbetween 1200 mm and 1370 mm high.

• At least one fixed shelfshould be provided in accessible sections of coatclosets mounted no higherthan 1420 mm. Note: Nobase or lower shelf should be installed in accessibleclosets.

• Clear door openings for closets or coat racks shouldbe at least 810 mm wide toallow a frontal approach bypersons using mobility aids.

• Public check-in counters for coat storage located inentertainment facilities orother settings, should include at least one sectionof lowered counter, approximately 765 mm wide and 865 mm high to allow easy access by persons using mobility aids.

• In residential settings, some accessible clothing and bulk storage space should be provided that is suitable for persons using mobility aids.

2.3.2 Door and CupboardHardware

Persons with limited dexterityand strength should be able tooperate door and cupboardhardware.

• Door pulls or latches shouldbe of the lever handled or‘D’ type for easy use by persons with disabilities.(See Figure 107)

• Door hardware should bemounted no higher than 1065 mm.

• Wherever possible, locksshould be part of the handset.

• Sliding cupboard or doorhardware should be selectedand mounted so that the cleardoor opening that remains is at least 860 mm wide.(See Figure 108)

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES


ACCESSIBILTYRANGE 1370 mm

1200 mmMAX.

405 mmMIN.

Figure 106

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES


• Pocket door hardware shouldinclude a ‘D’ type pull on the leading edge.

2.3.3 Drinking Fountains

Drinking fountains should be readily accessible to anduseable by persons with disabilities, including personswho have visual limitationsand those using mobility aids.

• Drinking fountains should beset to one side of the path oftravel with enough approachroom for persons usingmobility aids. (See Figure 109)

• Where the drinking fountainis recessed and/or wallmounted, clear knee space of 765 mm wide by 735 mmhigh to the underside of theunit is required.

• The controls for the drinking fountain should be: mountedto one side of the bowl; beno higher than 915 mm; andbe easily operable with onehand.

• The spout for water projection should preferablybe no higher than 915 mm,with a trajectory across thebowl. Note: For persons who cannot use a drinkingfountain easily, an adjacentpaper cup dispenser shouldbe provided. 1220 mm

MIN.

760 mmMIN.

250 mm

760 - 915 mmTO SPOUTOPENING

Figure 109

860 mm 915 mm

860 mm 860 mm

Figure 108

Figure 107

2.3.4 Equipment andFurniture

In selecting furniture orequipment for public and staffareas, (e.g., lobbies, waitingand dining areas), care shouldbe taken to ensure that selected items (and theirlayout) will not constitute ahazard for persons who havevisual limitations and that theyare useable by persons withvarying disabilities.

• All items of furniture, equipment and planters etc.,should be positioned to oneside of the normal path oftravel.

• All temporary items, including display stands,information boards, easels,recycling bins etc., should belocated to one side of the normal path of travel.

• Loose seating, chairs orbenches should have seatheights between 405 m and460 mm, so that seniors orothers can get in and out ofthem without difficulty.

• Some seats should be provided with both armrestsand backrests to provide adequate support for frailindividuals, seniors or persons with stability and/or transferring difficulties.

• Tables and desks should generally be selected with aworking surface no higherthan 785 mm and clear kneespace of 700 mm high, by atleast 760 mm wide between supports, to allow easy

wheelchair access and use.(See Figure 110)

• Coffee and telephone tables, located in waiting areas andlounges, should be no lowerthan 510 mm high and they

should have an open base toensure persons using mobility aids approach.

• Planters with strong cane-detectable bases should be selected.



480 mmMIN.

700 mmMIN.

785 mmMAX.

760 mmMIN.

1220 mmMIN.

Figure 110

250 mmMIN.

DEPTH

760 mmMIN.

700 mmMIN.

725 - 865 mm

COUNTER

Figure 111



2.3.5 Information andService Counters

• Counters used for information or service purposes should have at least one section useable by persons inwheelchairs/scooters at amaximum height of 865 mm. The counter should have noobstructions that adverselyaffect the ability of the public or staff to passthrough information or have eye contact. Accessiblesections of counters shouldbe a minimum of 760 mmwide, with knee space belowof at least 250 mm deep by 700 mm high, to allow easywheelchair/scooter approach and use. (See Figure 111)

• Where speaking ports areprovided at enquiry counters,ticket sales desks etc.; atleast one such positionshould have the speakingport no higher than 1065 mm for persons using mobilityaids.

2.3.6 Lockers and Baggage Storage

In schools, recreation/transit facilities, or wherever public orprivate storage lockers areprovided, at least some of thestorage units should be useableby persons using mobility aids.

• Storage or baggage lockersfor people with disabilitiesshould have the bottom shelfof the compartment no higher than 1220 mm and no

lower than 460 mm from the floor (e.g., between 5% and 10% of available spaces). (See Figures 112, 113 and114)

• Locks for accessible storage lockers should be mounted at 915 mm, but no higher than 1065 mm. Locks should beeasy to operate by personswith limited manual dexterity.

• Numbers or names on lockers should: be in distinctand legible lettering; bemounted no higher than 1525 mm; and be of eitherraised or recessed lettering.Lettering colour should behighly contrasted from thebackground.

865 mmMAX.

1220 mmMAX.

510 mm MAX.GRASP REACH

Figure 114

1370 mmMAX.


460 mmMIN.

• Lettering or number sizeshould be between 13 mmand 19 mm high, for easylegibility by persons whohave visual disabilities.

• Aisle spaces in front of lockers, baggage compartments and carouselsshould be a minimum of1370 mm deep to permit a forward or lateral approachby users with mobility aids.

• Baggage racks or carouselsfor suitcases etc. should havethe platform surface no higher than 460 mm from the floor.

2.3.7 Mail Boxes

Mailboxes and post boxes located in private or public settings should be accessible to persons using mobility aids.

• Post boxes in public buildings,recreational,tourist, or transit facilities should have mailslots for letters or packagesmounted at 1015 mm but no higher than 1220 mmfrom floor level. A "D" typehandle should be providedfor easy finger grip by persons with limited manual dexterity.

• Mailboxes or mail slots in apartment buildings, recreational buildings andeducational facilities etc.,should include some accessible mailboxes, which are mounted between610 mm and 1065 mm fromthe floor. A "D" type handleshould be provided for easyfinger grip by persons withlimited manual dexterity.

• For signage and numberingof mailboxes, (See Section2.4.16, Signage and Way-finding).

2.3.8 Mirrors

Mirrors located in public washrooms should be availableto and mounted at suitableheights for use by persons inwheelchairs or scooters.

• The lower edge of mirrorsover vanities and washbasinsin public washrooms shouldbe mounted no higher than915 mm from the floor.Alternatively, a tilted mirrorshould be provided. (See Figure 115)

• Where suitable mirrors cannot be mounted overbasins, a separate full-lengthmirror is recommended. Thelower edge of the mirrorshould be mounted approximately 610 mm fromthe floor and extend to noless than 1830 mm high.Such mirrors should belocated where there is a clear floor area of 915 mmby 1370 mm deep in frontto ensure access by personsusing mobility aids.



> 915 mm(TILTED MIRROR)

< 915 mm(FLAT MIRROR)

IN DIFFICULT RENOVATIONS, A MIRROR WHICH IS SLIGHTLYTILTED DOWNWARDS LETS PERSONS IN WHEELCHAIRS

SEE A FULL VIEW OF THEMSELVES

Figure 115



• Mirrors that are mounted immediately opposite doors/openings into washrooms or elevators are not recommended as the reflections are confusing to persons who have cognitive limitations.

• Tinted mirrors or patternedmirror surfaces are not recommended as they present distorted images for some seniors and persons with low vision.

• Lighting over mirrors shouldbe of an even quality and notact as a source of direct orreflected glare.

2.3.9 Platforms/Daises

• Platforms or daises, providedfor display or presentationpurposes, should be accessible to and useable bypersons with mobility aids.

• Permanent or temporary ramps should be available for persons with mobility limitations and should belocated so as not to constitute a tripping hazard for persons who have visual limitations.

• Ramps to platforms shouldcomply with Section 3.8 ofthe Ontario Building Code.

• The surface of ramps shouldbe non-slip (e.g., glued downcarpet) and the junction withthe floor should be nogreater than a 13 mm rise.

2.3.10 Public Showers andChanging Rooms

Public showers and changingrooms should be designed tobe accessible to people withmobility aids.

• Where shower stalls are provided, at least one stallshould be 1500 mm wide by900 mm deep with a levelentry at the floor, or a rounded or beveled thresholdno higher than 13 mm.

• Ensure that the floor drain isnot situated in the standingor seating location. A levelapproach space of at least900 mm by 1500 mm shouldbe provided to accommodateusers with mobility aids. (See Figure 116)

• Accessible showers or shower stalls should includea drop down seat at one side,mounted at a height of 438-480 mm from the floor.A horizontal grab rail is recommended to be providedand mounted 915 mm fromthe floor, at the centre of thelong side, and the grab barshould be reachable from aseated position. (See Figures 117)

• Shower controls shouldinclude pressure controls andan automatic mixing valve sothat hot water temperaturedoes not exceed 49 OC, tominimize accidental scalding.

• Telephone type showerheadsare recommended on a flexible hose and mountedon an adjustable rod, toallow varying showerhead positions. (See Figure 117)

900 mm

900 mm

900 mm

1500 mm

1500 mm

Figure 116

• Floor drains in accessibleshowers should be positionedaway from a seated showeruser.

• Where larger accessibleshowers are required, (e.g.,at the entrance to a pool deckarea), thresholds should beno higher than 13 mm.

• Changing rooms providingaisles and access to clotheslockers should have no aislespace less than 1100 mm wide.

• Some accessible lockersshould be provided for useby persons with mobilityaids and mounted between460 mm and 1220 mm high.

• Locks for accessible lockersshould be easy to use withone hand and by personswith limited manual dexterity.

2.3.11 Public Washrooms

Accessible public washroomsshould be designed in accordance with requirementsof the Ontario Building Code,Section 3.8.

• Where unisex/family washrooms are provided, they should be located close to public washrooms.

• The provision of a baby-changing table, mounted no higher than 865 mm from floor level,should be considered.

• Accessible public and staffwashrooms should beequipped with automaticdoor openers whenever possible.


• The preferred faucet on basins are of the automatic type.



840 mm

350 mm

Figure 118

438 - 480 mm

Figure 117



(See Figures 118, 119, 120 andSections 2.3.10, PublicShowers and Changing Roomsand Section 2.3.14, WashroomAccessories; See Also Part 1: Section 1.4.7, Public Washrooms)

2.3.12 Vanities and Work Surfaces

• Vanity surfaces located in public washrooms andcloak rooms, should bemounted no lower than 760 mm and no higher than 840 mm to allow easy access by users withmobility aids.

• Knee space below the accessible vanity counter or apron should be at least735 mm high at the frontedge of the apron by 205 mm deep from frontedge and 760 mm wide, to allow easy access by persons using mobility aids. Note: Many scooters have higher seats thanwheelchairs and a higherknee clearance may be desirable. (See Figure 120)

• Basins in accessible vanities should be mounted as far forward as possible, withoutencroaching on the recommended knee space clearances.

• The hot water basin temperature should be controlled, i.e. 49 OC or lower. Where water temperature is higher, waste traps below basins should be insulated to prevent accidental burns. (See Figure 118)

685 mmMIN.

735 mmMIN.

840 mmMAX.

205 mm

430 mm

280 mm

485 mmMAX.

760 mmMIN.

485 mmMAX.

460 mmMIN.

MIN. KNEECLEARANCE

150 mm MIN.TOE CLEARANCE

230 mm MIN.TOE CLEARANCE

OPEN SPACE

840 mmMAX.

Figure 120

600 mmMIN.

460 – 480 mm

1675 mmRECOMMENDED

300 mm

1500 mmMIN.

460 mmMIN.

1500 mmMIN.

485 mmMAX.

305 mmRECOMMENDED

1200 mmMIN.

Figure 119

1220 mmMIN.

1400 mmMIN.

1500 mmMIN.

CLEAR SPACE

CLEAR SPACE

CLEARSPACE

760 mmMIN.

1500 mmMIN.

450 mm MIN.RECOMMENDED

Figure 119

• Accessible work surfaces at service or informationcounters, study carrels etc.,should be mounted between760 mm and 865 mm high,with clear knee space below.

2.3.13 Vending Machines

Where vending machines areprovided, care should be takento ensure that such machinesare accessible to and useable by persons with mobility aidsand low vision.

• Vending machine controls, dispensing areas, or otherworking parts should belocated no higher than 1200 mm and no lower than 465 mm from the floor. (See Figure 121)

• Signage on vendingmachines should be in highcontrast letters and at least13 mm high, to ensure legibility by persons withvisual limitations. (See Figure 122)

• Floor space in front of vending machines should be at least 1370 mm deep by 1525 mm long, to allowlateral access by personswith mobility aids, includingwheelchair/scooter users.



13 mmMIN.

Lighton

Dark

Darkon

Light

Figure 122

1200 mmMAX.

405 mmMIN.

SWITCH

RECEPTACLE

COIN SLOT

CHANGE RETURN

SNACKS

Figure 121



2.3.14 WashroomAccessories

• Washroom accessories, suchas paper towel dispensers,soap dispensers, and wastebins etc., should have nocontrols, operating or dispensing componentsmounted higher than 1200 mm from the floor.(See Figure 123)

• Toilet paper dispenser shouldbe mounted so they arereachable from a seated position and capable of beingoperated with one hand without binding and locatedso that the use of the toilet and grab bar is notobstructed (traditional rollerto be used as an option).

• At least one mirror in public washrooms, change rooms or locker rooms is recommended to be fulllength as an aid to grooming.

• Faucets on basins may be automatic (preferred) or ofthe lever handled type, set at 205 mm on center. The single action type is preferred for use by persons with limited dexterity. (See Figure 124)

• The distance from the edgeof the vanity or basin to thefaucet should not exceed 485 mm for persons usingmobility aids.

• Where soap dispensers are provided, they should be mounted within reach of all users, no higher than1200 mm from floor.Dispenser should be automatic (e.g., sensors) or have buttons/controls thatare easy to operate with onehand, especially by personswith limited manual dexterity.

Figure 124

1200 mmMAX.

Figure 123

2.3.15 Windows andWindow Hardware

In buildings with operablewindows, the opening sectionsshould be easy to reach andoperate by persons usingmobility aids.

• Sill heights should ideally beno higher than 760 mm fromthe floor to allow vision outby persons using mobilityaids or by persons who areconfined to their beds. (See Figure 125)

• Horizontal transoms in windows should be designedso that they do not interruptthe eye level of seated persons (i.e., not mountedbetween 1070 mm and 1200 mm). (See Figure 125)

• Deep windowsills located in residential and institutionalunits that provide an extrasurface for plants and photographs should be reachable by persons usingmobility aids.

• Window opening hardware should be mounted no higher than 1065 mm, where possible.

• Where required, windowhardware should be of thelever handle type (i.e., not arotary action).

• In residential suites, openingunits of windows should bedesigned to deflect directdrafts away from the occupants whenever possible.

• Window blinds, drapes or louvers should have operators, controls, and pullcords etc., that are accessibleto persons using mobilityaids, (i.e., with controls in an open approachable space),mounted no higher than 1200 mm. (See Figure 125)



760 mm

1200 mmMAX.

Figure 125

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS


POLICY

All Building Systems should be designed to accommodatethe needs of people with varying disabilities. The needs of persons with vision or hearing loss should be particularly considered, with respect to lighting andacoustic design. The needs ofseniors and others, respecting personal comfort and safety, also require special consideration.

2.4.1 Acoustics

The acoustical environment of public buildings and spacesshould accommodate theunique needs of persons whohave visual or auditory limitations and who may need to differentiate essential sounds from general background noise.

• Floor finishes, wall surfacesand ceilings should be selected so that occasionalnoise is not unduly amplified(e.g., hard floor surfacessuch as marble and terrazzo),allow foot steps to be heardby persons with visual limitations but may add confusion for persons withauditory disabilities.

• Locating accessible paths of travel in large buildings may be problematic for personswith visual limitations andsome design changes may be desirable to ensure thatimpact sounds from secondary corridors are different in quality fromsounds in major routes

(e.g., through changes infloor finishes).

• Ceiling shapes should bedesigned so that echoes donot occur. Note: Domedshaped ceilings tend to distort sound.

• Public address and call systems should be capable of being zoned to key areas,rather than blanketing allareas of a building at alltimes.

2.4.2 Audible Signals

Essential audible signals, such as fire-alarm signals orelevator arrival call systems,should be loud/distinct enoughto be heard above normalambient sounds by personswith sensory disabilities.(See figure 126)

• Fire alarm signals in public buildings should be designedto alert seniors and personswith sensory disabilities, that(1) there is a problem, and(2) when to evacuate thebuilding.

1065 mm

1525 mm

1030 mm

760 mm

AN AUDIBLE SIGNAL SHALL INDICATETHE PASSING OR LOCATION OF A FLOOR.

VISUAL INDICATION SHALL BE PROVIDED IN A CARTO SHOW WHAT FLOOR THE CAR IS ON.

BOTH VISUAL AND AUDIBLE SIGNALS MUST BE USED.

915 mm

150 mm

50 mm

Figure 126

• Audible alarm signals shouldbe accompanied by visualalarms, as an aid to personswho are deaf, deafened orhard of hearing. Note: For persons who have both visual and auditory limitations,portable-vibrating alarmsshould be considered.

• In all public buildings and institutions providing services or programs to seniors and persons withdisabilities, a two-stage emergency alarm system is recommended, with distinctive (i.e., pulses or intermittent) audible pedestrian signals for each stage.

2.4.3 Automatic Door Openers

Persons (public, staff, etc.)with varying disabilities shouldbe able to enter or exit thebuilding safely and easily.

• At main entrances and atother accessible entrances to public buildings and institutions, automatic dooropeners or assisted dooropeners on both the exteriorentrance and the relatedvestibule doors should beprovided. (See also Section2.1.3, Door Hardware, Locksand Closures and Section2.1.5, Glazed Screens andSidelights)

• Where interior doors in public buildings providingaccess to essential services,programs, work or support

areas are required to haveclosers as part of general fire-safety requirements,power assisted openers mayalso be desirable.

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS


MOTION SENSOR (TYPICAL)

UNIVERSAL SYMBOL(TYPICAL)

NARROW ZONE

APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF MOTIONSENSOR DETECTION ZONE (TYPICAL)

THE NARROW ZONE IS USED FOR DIRECT APPROACHES OR SWING DOORS

Figure 128

MOTION SENSOR (TYPICAL)

UNIVERSAL SYMBOL(TYPICAL)

WIDE ZONE

APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF MOTIONSENSOR DETECTION ZONE (TYPICAL)

THE WIDE ZONE IS USED WHERE THERE IS SIDE TRAFFIC

Figure 127



• The controls for powerassisted doors should belocated clear of the doorswing where there is sufficient approach space, in areas where there is aminimum clear floor spaceof 1065 mm by 1525 mm foraccess by persons usingmobility aids. Controlsshould be mounted between 1000 mm and 1100 mm highfrom floor measured fromthe centre of the control,preferably not on doorjambs. (See also Section 2.1,Entrances)

• Where automatic detection systems are used, (such as pressure sensitive mats orlight beams) the layout of themats or light beam coverageshould ensure that personsusing mobility aids (e.g.,wheelchairs/scooters), seniors or persons with visual limitations have timeto clear the opening safely,before the door closes again.(See Figures 127 & 128)

• Where automatic exteriordoors swing open towardoncoming pedestrians or arelocated in busy interior areas,lateral guards should be provided. Guards shouldextend a minimum of 305 mm beyond the swing of the door on both sides ofthe opening, to provide awarning to persons withvisual limitations. (See Section 2.1.2, Doors and Doorways andFigure 85)

2.4.4 Card Access Systems & Security Systems

• Where card access systems are selected to enter particular facilities or spaces,the system selected shouldbe suitable for use by persons with varying disabilities, including persons with limited manualdexterity, visual disabilitiesor difficulty with reaching(e.g., limited upper bodymovement).

• Card entry systems should bewall/post mounted, between 1000 mm and 1100 mm from the floor measured from thecentre of the control cardentry system.

• Where keypads or otherencoded entry/exit systemsare used, the buttons shouldbe raised, mounted on abright coloured backgroundand include raised numeralsor letters in a constant array.

• Where keypad systems aredoor or jamb mounted, thereshould be enough space(e.g., free of the door swing),to allow a person using a mobility aid to approach anduse the keypad and the doorsafely.

• Card systems selected should have cards that are easy touse by persons who havevisual limitations, either byusing a distinct colour or texture on one side, or byusing raised numbers, lettersand Braille to ensure easy orientation and use.

• See also doors and glazeddoors. (See Section 2.1.5,Glazed Screens andSidelights)

2.4.5 CommunicationSystems

General (non-emergency) communication systems should be accessible to, useable and understood by persons with various sensory limitations.

• All essential two-way communication systems, utilizing voice input or output, should also include adigital display for personswith auditory or voice limitations.

• Communication systems (such as telephones and intercoms) should include atleast one unit in each arraywith volume enhancementfor persons who have hearing limitations. Systems should also include a coupling device forpersons using hearing aids.

• At major information counters, enquiry and booking locations,consideration should begiven to the use of a TTY telephone (i.e., texttelephone with a digital display). (See Figure 129)

• Where visual input or output displays are utilized, some consideration should begiven to the needs of personswho have visual limitationsby providing an alternate orsupplementary system, withan audio output.

• Where visual public communication systems or displays are utilized forpublic information purposes,(e.g., at video type terminals), an audio output, (such as voice or tape)should be considered, as well as alternate forms ofessential information (e.g.,large print and braille text,for persons who have visual limitations).

• In networked systems, consideration should be given to special input andoutput requirements for persons who have sensorylimitations. See also Section 2.4.14.



A PORTABLE TTY MOUNTED ON A SHELF LOCATEDNEXT TO A PAY TELEPHONE IS ONE SOLUTION

Figure 129



2.4.6 Controls andOperating Mechanisms

• All controls and operating mechanisms should be reachable and useable bypersons with varying disabilities. (See Figures 130 and 131)

• All controls, operating components or dispensingslots should be mountedbetween 610 mm and 1200 mm from the floor, toallow easy access by personsusing mobility aids.

• Controls and operating mechanisms should be clearly visible and identifiable by a distinctcolour or tone compared to the background colour.The colour brightness orcontrast should be 70% orgreater for best visibility for persons with visual limitations. Note: Yellow on a black background is anacceptable contrast, however,grey on black provides insufficient contrast.

• Instruction informationdetailing the use of key controls or operating mechanisms should be clearly visible in large printtext, on a highly contrastingbackground. Instructionsshould be mounted close to key controls or operatingmechanisms for easy identification by all users.

• Lever type controls or raised push buttons, no smaller than 13 mm in diameter, are generally recommended.

• All light switches, thermostats and fire alarmpull stations etc., should be mounted no higher than 1200 mm.

• All duplex receptaclesshould be mounted no lowerthan 460 mm from the floorand no higher than 1065 mm(e.g., above counters or worksurfaces).

1370 mmMAX.

MAXIMUM FORWARD REACH

Figure 131

1200 mmMAX.

THERMOSTAT SWITCH

ELEVATOR HALLCALL BUTTON

ELEVATORHALL DOORS

Figure 130

2.4.7 Electrical Power

Electrical power should be sufficient to allow supplementary lighting andcommunication devices to beadded wherever needed to benefit various persons with disabilities who use the facility or site.

• Emergency power should be sufficient to ensure adequate emergency lighting levels,the use of elevators and otherkey operating componentsand/or systems during apower outage, in all majorareas of the facility, along allpaths of travel to exits and inall designated safe holdingareas.

• An emergency poweredduplex receptacle should beprovided in all commercial,institutional, and other occupancies which facilitateovernight accommodations, designated for use by persons with disabilities.

2.4.8 Fire/EmergencySystems and Signals

Fire alarm signals shouldinclude both audible and visible components to alertpersons with sensory limitations. (See also Section2.2.6, Safe Holding Areas andSection 2.4.2, Audible Signals)

• Audible signals should provide distinctive soundsand be of sufficient power tobe heard clearly above theambient noise in the environment.

• Audible signals for two-stage evacuation should have distinct noises/sounds in each stage (e.g. be distinguishable from eachother). (See Figure 132)

• Announcements regarding fire-exiting proceduresshould be loud enough tocarry above ambient noiselevels and be preceded by adistinctive sound, in order toalert building occupants.

• Visible flashing signalsshould be utilized. Note: the pulse of visible flashingsignals should be tested toensure that it does not triggerepileptic seizures.

• Signals should be mountedhigh on the walls and shouldbe easily visible againstbackground colour and lighting.

• In facilities serving persons who are blind or who havevisual limitations, increasedwarning signage should beprovided.

• Portable vibratory alarmsshould be considered to supplement auditory signals,for persons (including staff)with hearing limitations whoare permanent occupants of a building or institution, orwho are overnight guests in a hotel.



SPEAKERS

LINK TO FIRE DEPARTMENT

MICROPHONEBELLS

PULL STATIONS

HEATDETECTORS

SMOKEDETECTORS

CONTROLPANEL

Figure 132



2.4.9 Heating, Cooling, andVentilation Systems

Heating, cooling and ventilation systems should bedesigned to accommodate persons whose circulatory systems are inadequate. For instance, many seniors and persons using mobility devices have difficulty sensingtemperature differencesbecause of poor circulation orbody tone. When the ambienttemperature is too high ortoo low, they may become dehydrated or suffer from hypothermia.

• Ambient air temperature in facilities serving personswho are either: frail, seniorsor persons with disabilities,should be designed to operate between 21º C and26º C (70º F and 79º F) at alltimes of the year.

• The humidity in the air of residential facilities andinstitutions serving seniors or persons with disabilities,should be designed to operate between 30% - 40%,(especially during the wintermonths), to aid proper skin care.

• Mechanical, ventilation and air-cooling systems shouldbe designed so that the airflow from diffusers/grills isnot directed towards personslying in bed or toward permanent seating or work-ing locations.

• To minimize noise from air handling systems in meeting, work and study areas, it is recommended that fanmounts be acoustically isolated. Related ductworkshould be insulated to aidpersons with hearing limitations.

2.4.10 Information Systemsand Directories

• Information systems providing direct informationto the public need to be comprehensible to a widevariety of users, includingpersons with sensory disabilities. (See alsoSection 2.4.5,Communication Systems)

• Where essential auditory information is available,(e.g., on audiotape, by telephone or other means), itshould be complemented bysuitable printed material.

• Essential print informationshould generally be printedin large text (e.g., 12-14 ptbold) on a highly contrastingbackground colour. Printinformation should also be available in alternate formats, including braille oraudiotape, for use by personswho have visual limitations.

• Information typically available on visual displayscreens should also be available in other formats,including audiotape or large print.

• On display monitors, consideration should begiven to include an enlargingfunction for persons withlow vision.

• Information systems designedfor direct access by the general public, (e.g., video display terminals with keyboard or keypad access)should be easy to operate,require little physical effortand be mounted at a heightsuitable for use by personswith mobility aids (e.g.,1200 mm.)

• Push-buttons (or other controls) accessing publicinformation systems shouldbe clearly identifiable bycolour and/or tone from thebackground colour, with a contrast of 70% or greater. Push-buttons or other controls should includeraised numbers, numerals or symbols for easy identification by persons who have visual disabilities. (See also Section 2.4.6,Controls and OperatingMechanisms)

• Lighting levels at keyboardsor other controls should beevenly distributed at no lessthan 200 lux (20 ft. candles).

• Visual display screens, in public information or display systems, should be mountedto ensure there is no directglare (e.g., from artificial ornatural lighting) on the surface of the screen.

2.4.11 Artificial Lighting

• Artificial lighting and natural light sources should provide comfortable, evenly distributed light at all working surfaces on thefloors of all circulationroutes and in all areas ofpotential hazard, to aid persons with low vision.

• Light sources and fixturesshould be selected to minimize direct or indirectglare from nearby reflectivesurfaces and to ensure thatpersons with low vision cannavigate safely.

• Lighting design should ensurethat the quality of light isclose to a full spectrum aspossible to aid in edge andcolour definition by personswho have visual disabilities.Where fluorescent or quartzlight sources with a highblue content are used, they should be offset withincandescent lights. Thisensures the warm end of the spectrum provides appropriate colour definition.

• Light fixtures with multiple pinpoints of high intensitylight should be avoided, asthey add an unnecessarysource of glare and leave anafter image on the retina for persons with low vision.

• Lighting should be laid outto create even distribution atfloor level, and to minimizepools of light or areas ofshadow. Such variations inlighting levels are confusingto many seniors and persons with low vision.

• The leading edges of stairs,steps, ramps or escalatorsshould be evenly lit to minimize tripping hazards.Low-level lighting is alsodesirable in special locations,(e.g., theatres) to aid in safenavigation by all users.

• Lighting levels in elevatorlobbies should be similar tothe lighting levels in elevatorcabs in order to minimizetripping hazards. Lightinglevels in elevator lobbies arerecommended to be no lessthan 100 lux (10 ft. candles),at the threshold of the elevator.

• Emergency lighting overinterior stairs and ramps, inexits, or other paths of travel,is recommended to be whenever reasonable 100 lux (10 ft. candles) at the walking surface and 50 lux (5 ft. candles) in exterior locations.

• Lighting over directional or informational signage at public telephones, informational/service counters, automatic tellermachines, or other keypad operations, should be no less than 200 lux (20 ft. candles)at the working or information surface.

• Lighting over lecterns, podiums, platforms or otherspeaker locations should becapable of being enhanced,even when other lighting is dimmed, to permit lip-reading and a view of any of the hand actions(i.e., from ‘signers’) used to communicate with personswho are deaf.

2.4.12 Natural Lighting

• Wherever possible, naturallight should be utilized toassist in lighting entrances,corridors and major workspaces. However, careshould be taken to minimizedirect glare (e.g., reflectedfrom floor or work surfaces)that is problematic for persons with visual disabilities.

2.4.13 Listening Devices

• In public meeting or assembly areas serving a number of people, consideration of the needs of persons who are deaf orhard of hearing should beincluded.

• An FM loop, or other assistive listening system,are recommended to be considered for all meeting rooms or assembly and entertainment areas, serving more than 35 persons. (See Figure 133)

• Where infrared assistive listening devices are used,ensure that no overheadincandescent lights cancelout the infrared signal at the receiver.

• In meeting areas, dimmer switches (or othertransformer coils) should becarefully located so as not to cause electro-magneticinterference with any audioinduction loops.





• Where an FM loop system,or other assistive listeningdevice is provided in publicbuildings or meeting areas,portable headsets compatiblewith personal hearing aidsshould be made available topersons who may requirethem. (See Figure 133)

• Where an induction loop system is utilized, only halfthe seating area will need tobe encompassed.

• Every theatre intended for viewing of motion picturesshall accommodate describedvideo and the installation ofrear-view captioning in conformance with theOntario Building Code.

• Larger meeting rooms shouldbe designed and furnished to allow a clear view of thespeaker(s) at all times. (See also Section 2.4.1,Acoustics)

2.4.14 Public AddressSystems

• Public address systemsshould be easy to hear aboveambient background noise,without distortion or feedback, as an aid personswith hearing or visual limitations.

• Public address speakersshould be mounted abovehead-level and provide effective sound coverage in required areas such as corridors, assembly andmeeting rooms, recreational,entertainment and educational facilities,

as well as in common use areas located in institutional settings.

• Public address systemsshould preferably be zonedso that information can bedirected to key locationsonly, to minimize background noise in otherareas of the building.

• Where public address systemsare used to broadcast background music, careshould be taken to ensurethat it is only in selected(zoned) areas of the facility,and that the system can beswitched off in localizedareas, when required.

• All-point call systems shouldonly be utilized for fire andemergency information (i.e., not for paging staff).

• Personal alarm, staff or othercall systems (e.g., nursecall), should be selected with care and according tothe requirements of the particular setting or user.Call systems should alwaysbe used with discretion.

• Paging systems for use bystaff or other key personnelshould be selected to be discreet and low in volume.Systems should only soundat devices or locations where such persons mightreasonably be expected to be located. (See also Section 2.4.5,Communication Systems)

2.4.15 Telephones

• See Part 1: Section 1.4.6, Public Telephones, and Section 2.4.5,Communication Systems.(See also Figure 129)

FM BROADCAST SYSTEM

NORMAL SOUND SYSTEM

MICROPHONE, CD, TAPE, TELEVISION, DVD, FILM, ETC.

SPEAKERS

FM RECEIVER

FM TRANSMITTER

AMPLIFIER

Figure 133

2.4.16 Signage and Way-finding

• Persons with visual limitations, seniors, personswith cognitive limitationsand persons whose primarylanguage is not English, may be highly dependent ona comprehensive signagesystem, for orientation andway-finding in large or complex buildings, wherepublic services or programsare provided. Such signageand complementary way-finding strategies mustbe logical, consistent indesign and distributionthroughout the building andinclude lettering, numbers,pictograms or icons that are legible and easy to comprehend. (See Figures 134, 135, 136, 138 and 139)

• All directional signage and locational signage should be mounted at eye-level,between 1370 mm and 1525 mm high, for quick and easy identification bypersons who have visual limitations. (See Figure 137)

• Room numbers or namesshould be mounted on thewall close to the openingside of the door, preferablywithin 305 mm of thedoorframe as a constant reference location.



Figure 135

Figure 134



• Lettering for room numbersor names should be no smaller than 25 mm high insans serif type print and bein a highly contrasting colour(70% or greater), comparedto the background colour.Raised lettering is preferredfor easy identification bypersons with visual disabilities.

• For Braille users, braille information should belocated immediately below all room numbers and names, as well as below any major directional signs. (See Figure 142)

• In larger public facilities, atactile map of the facilityshowing the distribution andlocation of key areas/spacesshould be provided in the main entrance lobby. In large complex buildingssuch as hospitals, tactilemaps may be required oneach floor and should belocated close to the majorpoint of arrival to the floor (e.g., elevator lobby).

• Lettering or signs providing general directions should bein large size print that is legible from normal viewingdistance(s). (See Figure 141)

• Directional, instructional information, or maps showing exiting details foremergency situations shouldbe located on every floor oflarge buildings providingservices or programs to the public.

1525 mm

RAISED0.8 mm MIN.

25 mmMIN.

BRAILLE

Figure 137

Figure 136

• Where special exitinginstructions are provided forpersons with disabilities,(e.g., directions to safe holding areas), this information should be inlarge print on a highly contrasting background foreasy identification and legibility by persons with low vision. (See Figure 140)

• For exiting and fire alarm signage, (See OBC requirements).

• For signage relating to elevators, (See CAN/CSA B.355 and CAN/CSA B.651Appendix C for TactileSignage).

2.4.17 Ticketing Machines

• Both interior and exteriorticketing machines for parking, fares, or generaladmission etc., should beaccessible to persons with limited manual dexterity, persons using mobilitydevices and persons with low vision.

• Ticket dispensing machinesshould not have operable ordispensing parts higher than1200 mm or lower than 915 mm from floor level.



Figure 140

TOILETTOILETTE

MENHOMMES




• Control buttons or cardaccess locations should beeasy to identify and useableby persons with low visionor limited manual dexterity.(See also Section 2.4.6,Controls and OperatingMechanisms)

2.4.18 Video DisplayTerminals

• See Section 2.4.10Information Systems andDirectories, Section2.4.11(a), Artificial Lightingand Section 2.4.12(b),Natural Lighting.

RAISED GRAPHICS ANDCHARACTERS

SLOPED SURFACEINFORMATION SIGNS SHOULD ALSO HAVE A BRAILLE STRIP

Figure 142

1 UNIT

1 UNIT

1 UNIT

1 UNIT

CHARACTERHEIGHT =

6 TO 10 UNITS

STROKE WIDTH = 1 UNIT

Figure 141

POLICY

Members of the public,regardless of age or disability,should be able to access anduse all public facilities, servicesand programs. Whereverpossible, staff and supportareas of such facilities shouldbe able to accommodate persons with disabilities as visitors, consultants or asemployees.

2.5.1 Arenas

• Sports arenas (including all coaching and playing areas) should accommodate persons with varying disabilities, aswell as persons who usemobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs and scooters).

• Accessible seating locationsshould have clear sight lines.Because of the increase insize of wheelchairs andscooters it is recommendedthe accessible seating spaceto be a minimum of 900 mmwide by 1500 mm deep forside approach. At least two (2) spaces should beprovided together in eachlocation with direct access to an accessible aisle or passageway. (See Part 1:Section 1.3.7, Grandstandsand Viewing Areas andFigures 38 and 39)

• The minimum number of accessible seating locationsis: 2 for the first 100 seatsand 1 seat for each successive 100 seats.

• Access panels, with a minimum of 865 mm clearentry width, should be provided for all users toaccess the arena floor or ice surface.

• Changing/Locker Room accommodation for athletesor others should be designedto accommodate all personswith disabilities, includingusers of mobility aids. (SeeFigures 143, 144 and alsoSection 2.3.10, PublicShowers and ChangingRooms)

• Public washrooms should be accessible to athletes, visitors, or staff with variousdisabilities.

• Staff accommodation andrelated support areas, officesor meeting rooms shouldaccommodate persons withmobility aids. (See alsoSection 2.5.15, MeetingAreas, Assembly Rooms and Theatres)

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS



PART 2:INDOOR AREAS2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS


2.5.2 ATM’s / Bank Machines

• Automated BankingMachines, including displayunits, keyboards and signageshould be securely mountedand designed for use by persons with various disabilities. (See Figures 145 & 146)

• There should be a minimum clear floor spaceof deep X wide (1220 mm X 915 mm) and (685 mm) knee space, in front and underneath automated bankingmachines, so that persons using wheelchairscan reach them easily.

• All Automated BankingMachine related controls,switches, panels, card andcash handling devices,should be mounted no higherthan (1220 mm) from thefloor and be usable by persons with limited hand-eye coordination.

• Automated Banking Machine controls, switches,depositories, and display terminals should be easy to identify and use by persons with limited vision or dexterity.

• Display Terminals shouldinclude Braille instructionsand large print text for persons with limited vision.

• Voice or sound cues should be provided in additionwhere specific sequences or instructions are to be followed.

• Volume controls should be available for persons with limited hearing wherevervoice instructions are provided.

BANKING MACHINE

Figure 146

610 mmMIN.

165 mm MIN.205 mm

PREFFERED710 mm

790 mm

BANKING MACHINE

Figure 145

2.5.3 Cafeterias,Restaurants, Dining Areas and Bars

• Cafeterias, restaurants, cafés, bars, and/or otherareas providing food or beverage services, should be accessible to persons with varying disabilities,including persons usingmobility aids.

• Accessible seating locationsfor persons using mobilityaids should be available inall areas or levels, providingfood or beverage services.

• Aisle spaces between furniture, equipment or otherfixed objects should be wideenough to allow a personusing mobility aids to pass,i.e., major aisles should be a minimum of 1065 mm wide. The narrowest aisle shouldbe at least 810 mm wide. (See Figure 147)

• Where counter service isprovided, at least one sectionof the counter should be nohigher than 915 mm by 760 mm wide, to allow aperson using a wheelchair or scooter to approach. (See Figure 148)

• Where cafeteria or buffetstyle food services are provided, displays should beaccessible and mounted onsurfaces no higher than 915 mm from the floor. Overhead display shelvesshould be no higher than1220 mm (e.g., for dessertsand salads etc.).

Cutlery, condiments, andnapkin containers etc.,should be mounted no higherthan 1065 mm from floorlevel. (See Figure 148)

• Beverage dispensing areasshould be accessible to persons using wheelchairs orscooters with machines thatare easy to operate with onehand. (See also Section 2.4.6

Controls)



915 mm

1220 mmMAX.

380 mmMIN.

REACH610 mmMAX.

915 mmTHIS SHELF CANNOT BE SEEN BY

SOMEONE IN A WHEELCHAIR

REACHABLEDISPLAY SHELF

Figure 148

810-1065 mm

TRAY RAIL

Figure 147



• Where tray rails are provided, they should be as continuous as possible to allow persons usingwheelchairs or scooters toslide a tray along easily.(Note: Random access cafeteria set-ups are generallynot recommended, as theyare difficult for persons with visual impairments to comprehend, and difficult to use by persons who aremobility impaired).

• Cashier locations shouldinclude accessible aisles, aminimum of 915 mm widewith clear resting surfacesfor trays etc. Surfaces shouldbe mounted no higher than915 mm from the floor. (See Figure 149)

• Where barriers and turnstilesare provided to controlaccess, at least one accessible location should be included at a minimum of 915 mm wide.

• For queuing areas (See alsoSection 2.2.8, Turnstiles and Control Gates andSection 2.5.3, Cafeterias,Restaurants, Dining Areas and Bars)

• For vending machines (See Section 2.3.13, Vending Machines)

• For access to outdoor eating areas etc. (See Part 1:Section 1.3, Special Areasand Features)

2.5.4 Churches and Places of Worship

• All public areas in churchesand places of worship shouldbe accessible to persons with varying disabilities,including main areas of worship, meeting rooms, washrooms, coatrooms andoffices.

• Accessible seating locations,in addition to fixed seating,should be provided for persons using mobility aids.Such locations should be distributed in various placesto ensure that persons withdisabilities can sit with other family members orfriends. The recommendedproportion of accessible seating is 2 for each 100seating locations or 2%.

• For accessible entrances, (See Section 2.1.4,Entrances)

• For accessible washrooms, showers, coatrooms, etc.,(See Section 2.3.1, CoatClosets and Coat Racks,Section 2.3.10, PublicWashrooms and ChangingRooms)

• For office and meeting roomareas (including classrooms,Sunday school areas, etc.,(See Section 2.5.15, MeetingRooms, Assembly Areas andTheatres)

CHECKOUT LANE COUNTER

915 mm

Figure 149

• For raised areas e.g.: pulpits,altars, daises, choir areas,etc., (See also Section 2.3.9Platforms and Daises andSection 2.5.17, Schools andContinuing EducationCentres)

• For public address systemsand listening devices (See Section 2.4.5,Communication Systems,Section 2.4.13, ListeningDevices and Section 2.4.14,Public Address Systems)

• For lighting systems (SeeSection 2.4.11, ArtificialLighting and Section 2.4.12,Natural Lighting)

2.5.5 Office Buildings

• Offices providing services or programs to the public shouldbe accessible to everyone,including staff, regardless ofage or disability.

• Accessible offices and workspaces should be able toaccommodate persons usingmobility aids in all areas ofthe building or site.

• All support areas and amenities provided for boththe public and employeesshould be accessible to persons using mobilityaids, as well as persons with limited vision or hearing.

• For public information areas and services (See Section2.1.9, Waiting Areas, Section2.3.5, Information andService Counters, Section2.4.5, CommunicationSystems and Section 2.4.10,Information Systems andDirectories)

• For signage and way finding (See Section 2.4.16, Signageand Way-finding).

• For public meeting areas(See Section 2.5.15, MeetingRooms, Assembly Areas andTheatres).

• For public washrooms (See Section 2.3.10, PublicWashrooms and ChangingRooms).

• For fire and life safety (See Section 2.4.8, FireEmergency Systems andSignals, Section 2.4.14,Public Address Systems andSection 2.6.4, Fire and LifeSafety).

2.5.6 Clinics

• All facilities providing healthcare services to the publicshould be fully accessible toseniors and persons withvarying disabilities.

• Public health, out-patient, physiotherapist, chiropractic clinics, doctor’s offices, dental offices, diagnostic and treatment settings shouldbe designed to be fullyaccessible to persons usingmobility aids.

• All clinic, diagnostic, treatment or support areas,including offices, consultation and treatment cubicles, should be largeenough to accommodate persons using wheelchairs/scooters with no internalaisle less than 1100 mm wide and doorway less than 865 mm wide, between wallsor door stops.

2.5.7 Community Centres

• Community Centres by theirvery nature, offer variousprograms and activities to awide range of public participants of all agegroups. Amongst these aresenior citizens and motherswith small children. Suchcentres should be fullyaccessible to persons withvarying disabilities, both as members of the public and asemployees.

• All public areas ofCommunity Centres shouldbe designed to be accessibleto persons using mobilityaids, as well as persons withsensory limitations.

• For general access requirements (See Section 2.1.4, Entrances,Section 2.1.7, Thresholds,Section 2.2.1, Aisles andPassageways and Section2.2.2, Corridors andHallways)

• For public meeting andassembly areas (See Section2.5.15, Meeting Rooms,Assembly Areas andTheatres)

• For public display or exhibition areas (See Section2.5.9, Display, ExhibitionAreas, Galleries andMuseums)

• For recreation facilities,swimming pools and arenas(See Section 2.5.1, Arenas,Section 2.5.10, Gymnasium,Section 2.5.11, Ice-Rinks,Section 2.5.15, RecreationFacilities and Section 2.5.23,Swimming Pools)





• For public amenities such as washrooms, showers,changing, cloakrooms, andpublic telephones, etc. (SeeSection 2.3.1, Coat Closetsand Coat Racks, Section2.3.10, Public Washroomsand Changing Rooms)

• For public libraries (SeeSection 2.5.13, Libraries)

• For signage and way finding (See Section 2.4.16, Signage and Way-finding)

• For building systems, heating, lighting, ventilation and communications (See Section 2.4.1, Acoustics,2.4.5, CommunicationSystems, 2.4.7, ElectricalPower and Section 2.4.9,Heating, Cooling andVentilation Systems)

2.5.8 Courthouses,Detention Areas and Police Stations

• Public, administrative and holding areas of courthouses,police stations and related detention areas should be accessible to persons with varying disabilities, whether as prisoners, members of the public, advocates, counselors, or as supportstaff.

• All court rooms and publicareas of courthouses shouldbe fully accessible to personsusing mobility aids.

• All offices, meeting rooms,holding areas, changingareas or other support facilities available to members of the legal fraternity, the police or support staff should beaccessible to persons with varying disabilities.

• Special holding/detentionareas and visitor areas shouldbe designed to accommodatepersons using mobility aids,including all access routesfrom prisoner arrival areasthrough to the courtroom ormeeting and interviewrooms.

• For general accessibility requirements, for entrances, hallways, stairs, etc. (SeeSection 2.1.4, Entrances,Section 2.2.1, Aisles andPassageways, Section 2.2.2,Corridors and Hallways andSection 2.2.7, Stairs andSteps)

• For assembly or meetingareas (See Section 2.5.15,Meeting Rooms, AssemblyAreas and Theatres)

• For accessible washrooms, changing areas and locker rooms (See Section 2.3.10, Public Washrooms andChanging Rooms andSection 2.3.6, Lockers andBaggage Storage)

• For Signage and way finding (See Section 2.4.16, Signage and Way-finding)

2.5.9 Display, ExhibitionAreas, Galleries andMuseums

• All displays or exhibitswhether in permanent ortemporary locations, shouldbe capable of being accessed,enjoyed and understood bypersons with varying disabilities.

• Exhibition and displayspaces should be fully accessible to persons usingmobility aids. Aisle spacesbetween exhibits or studyareas should be at least 1065 mm.

• Exhibits should be mountedso that a person using awheelchair can look at theexhibit easily from a seatedposition. Where exhibits aredisplayed in horizontal orinclined cases, they shouldbe mounted no higher than 915 mm and wherever possible, include knee spacebelow at 700 mm high toallow a direct approach by aperson using a mobility aid(e.g., to approach book displays or small object displays).

• For persons with visual limitations, tactile exhibitsshould be available (e.g.,sculptural pieces), with nearby information printed in large print text, Braille, or provided on an audiotape.

• Where audio-information is provided for persons who are hard of hearing, some consideration of increased volume on personal cassettes as well as compatibility with hearing aids is desirable. Written text should also be available.

• Lighting in exhibit and dis-play areas should be capableof being enhanced in keylocations for specific exhibitenjoyment by persons whohave visual limitations.

• Lighting at display casesshould be designed to minimize reflected glare.

2.5.10 Gymnasium

• A gymnasium, whether part of an educational or arecreational setting, shouldbe accessible and useable bypersons with varying disabilities.

• The main floor or exerciseareas of gymnasiums shouldbe fully accessible to personsusing mobility aids, including all related changing areas, showers,washrooms, and lockers.(See Section 2.3.10, PublicWashrooms and ChangingRooms and Section 2.3.6,Lockers and BaggageStorage)

• Seating areas provided asbleachers or galleries overlooking the gymnasiumfloor should be accessible topersons using mobility aids.

• For persons who have visual limitations, care should betaken to ensure that there are no obstacles in the gymnasium area that mightconstitute a hazard (e.g.,unprotected floor slots forequipment mounting, theunderside of bleacher areas,signs, brackets, or equipmentprotruding from the walls).(See also Section 2.6.7,Obstacles)

2.5.11 Ice-Rinks

• Ice-rinks, whether indoors aspart of an arena, or outdoorsas part of a park’s winterfunction, should be accessible to and useable by persons with varying disabilities.

• All public amenities andviewing areas should beaccessible to persons whohave varying disabilitiesincluding persons usingmobility aids.

• Many persons who havevisual limitations may wishto attend hockey games, listen to the plays, and enjoy the noise, smells, and camaraderie of the game.Spaces should be providedwhere they can optimize thisdesire.

2.5.12 Hospitals and Health Care Facilities

• All facilities providing healthcare services to the generalpublic or to private clientsshould be fully accessible topersons with varying disabilities.

• All arrival and entrance areasshould be fully andautonomously accessible topersons using mobility aidsand to persons with visuallimitations. (See Section2.1.4, Entrances)

• All waiting, admission, diagnostic, consultation andtreatment areas should befully accessible to personsusing mobility aids. (See also Section 2.1.9,Waiting Areas and 2.3.5,Information Systems andDirectories)

• All essential support areasthat are available to the public or clients should beaccessible to persons withvarying disabilities. (SeeSection 2.3.5, Information and Service Counters andSection 2.4.10, InformationSystems and Directories)

• All client rooms for short or long-term accommodation, including any attached washrooms, clothing storageareas or lounges, should beaccessible to persons usingmobility aids. (See alsoSection 2.1.9, WaitingAreas and 2.3.10, PublicWashrooms and ChangingRooms)





• Heating, ventilation and communications systems should be appropriate for persons with varying disabilities. (See Section2.4.9, Heating, Cooling andVentilation Systems)

• All communication systems,such as nurse calls, telephones or public address systems, should be appropriate for personswith varying disabilities. (See Section 2.4.14, Public Address Systems)

2.5.13 Libraries

• All library areas, including checking areas, book stacksand reading/teaching spaces,should be accessible to seniors and persons withvarying disabilities.

• Book return and checkingarea counters should bedesigned to be accessible topersons using mobility aids.

• Book stack areas shouldhave aisles preferably 1065 mm wide, or a minimum of 915 mm wide,to allow easy access and maneuverability by persons using mobility aids. (See Figure 150)

• Lighting at book stacksshould be mounted directlyover the aisle space and provide a minimum of200 lux (20 ft. candles) at normal working height (i.e., 915 mm approx.), as a benefit to seniors and others with low vision.

• Study tables should bedesigned to accommodatepersons using mobility aids,with clear knee space of atleast 700 mm high.

• Shelving over study carrels,tables or study countersshould be no higher than1220 mm to allow an easyforward reach over the working surface. (SeeSection 2.3.12, Vanities and Work Sections)

• Acoustic quality in library, reading and study areasshould limit extraneousbackground noise, permittingcomprehension by personswith limited hearing. (SeeSection 2.4.1, Acoustics)

• Where CD’s, taped information and talkingbooks etc. are available to seniors, children with disabilities, or persons withvisual limitations as part of the libraries resource materials, a separate spaceshould be set aside so thatmaterials can be auditedwithout disturbing otherlibrary users. (See alsoSection 2.4.5,Communication Systems)

1065 mmMIN.

1065 mmMIN.

1065 mmMIN.

Figure 150

2.5.14 Long Term CareFacilities

• Facilities (includingRetirement Houses, Homesfor the Aged, Group Homes,Nursing Homes or ChronicCare Facilities) providing residential or long-term careto seniors, or persons withphysical or mental disabilities,should be designed to befully accessible to personswith varying disabilities.

• While the primary motivation is to provide ahome-like environment forpersons in long term carewith enough activity andsupport space for typical programs and services, it isalso critical that needed accessibility components that support reduced physical ‘ability’ or intellectual competence is integrated as subtly as possible.

• For entrances, primary circulation and public amenities (See Section2.3.5, Information andService Counters, Section2.3.10, Public Washroomsand Changing Rooms,Section 2.4.6, Controls and Operating Mechanisms,Section 2.4.16, Signage andWay-finding and Section2.6.7, Obstacles)

• For fire and life safety (See Section 2.4.8, FireEmergency Systems andSignals, Section 2.4.14,Public Address Systems and Section 2.6.4, Fire and Life Safety)

• For interior building systems (See Section 2.4.1,Acoustics, Section 2.4.7,Electrical Power, Section2.4.9, Heating, Cooling andVentilation Systems andSection 2.6.5, Maintenance)

• For washrooms, showers, and bathing areas (SeeSection 2.3.10, PublicWashrooms and Changing Rooms)

• For care and treatment areas (See Section 2.5.6, Clinics, Section 2.5.12, Hospitals andHealth Care Facilities,Section 2.5.14, Long TermCare Facilities and Section2.5.18, Seniors Housing)

• For resident activity and recreation areas (See Section2.5.10, Gymnasium, Section2.5.11, Ice-Rinks, Section 2.5.16, Recreation Facilities and Section 2.5.23, Swimming Pools)

• For resident dining areas (See Section 2.3.2, Door and Cupboard Hardware, Section 2.5.3, Cafeterias, Restaurants,Dining Areas and Bars and 2.5.19, Residential Kitchens)

• For interior design, furniture, finished, colour and texture (See Section 2.1.6, Mats and Mat Sinkages, Section 2.3.4,Equipment and Furniture, Section 2.6.1, Texture and Pattern, Section 2.6.2, FloorSurfaces/Textures, Section2.6.3, Colour and Tone,Section 2.6.6, Materials andFinishes, Section 2.6.8,Pattern and Section 2.6.9,Glare and Light Sources)

• For communication systems (See Section 2.4.5, Communication Systems)


• For exterior areas, parking,entrances, walkways and gardens, patios, etc., (SeePart 1: Section 1.2.1,Accessible Routes toEntrances, Section 1.1,Exterior Routes, Section1.1.7, Paths, Sidewalks and Walkways, Section 1.2.1,Accessible Routes toEntrances, Section 1.2.5,Parking and Section 1.3.2,Outdoor Eating andEntertainment Spaces:Balconies and Terraces) (See Part 2: Section 2.1.1,Canopies and WeatherProtection, Section 2.1.2,Doors and Doorways,Section 2.1.4, Entrances,Section 2.1.7, Thresholdsand Section 2.2, InteriorRoutes)





2.5.15 Meeting Rooms,Assembly Areas andTheaters

• Meeting rooms and assemblyareas, whether used by thepublic at large, by tenants orvisitors to specific buildings,should all be designed to be accessible to personswith varying disabilities,including persons usingmobility aids and personswith sensory limitations.(See also Section 2.2.1,Aisles and Passageways andPart 1: Section 1.3.7,Grandstands and ViewingAreas)

• Accessible seating should be distributed and integrated throughout seating areas of assembly rooms with different vantage pointsavailable to all persons with disabilities.

• All entertainment and assembly areas should beable to accommodate persons using various mobility aids. (See Figure 151)

• All meeting and assemblyareas should be able toaccommodate persons whohave visual limitations. (See also Section Part 1:Section 1.3.7, Grandstandsand Viewing Areas)

2.5.16 Recreation Facilities

• Recreational facilities providing programs orservices to the general public and/or to specialgroups, and clubs etc. shouldbe fully accessible to personswith various disabilities.

• All areas and amenitiesshould be accessible to persons using mobility aids.(See Part 1: Section 1.1,Exterior Routes and Part 2:Section 2.1, Entrances)

• For persons with visual limitations in respect to circulation routes, signage and obstacles, (See Section 2.2, Interior Routes,Section 2.4.16, Signage and Way-Finding andSection 2.6.6, Materials and Finishes).

• For persons with hearing limitations (See Section2.4.1, Acoustics, Section2.4.5, CommunicationSystems and Section 2.5.15,Meeting Rooms, AssemblyAreas and Theatres).

EXIT EXIT

ENTRANCEEXIT

DOES NOT INFRINGE ONAISLE REQUIREMENTS

ENTRANCEEXIT

DOES NOTINTERFEREWITH SEATINGEGRESS

THEATRE VIEWING POSITION

850 mmMIN.

1220 mmMIN.

Figure 151

2.5.17 Schools andContinuing EducationCentres

• Educational facilities serve a variety of age groups from pre-kindergarten children to seniors. All such facilities should be able to meet theneeds of persons of all agesand with varying disabilities.

• For exterior areas, routes, playing fields, and otheramenities, (See Section2.5.1, Arenas, Section 2.5.10,Gymnasium, Section 2.5.11,Ice-Rinks, Section 2.5.16,Recreation Facilities, Section2.5.23, Swimming Pools)

• For interior circulation and amenities (See Section 2.1.4,Entrances, Section 2.1.7,Thresholds, Section 2.2,Interior Routes, Section2.2.2, Corridors andHallways, Section 2.2.4,Elevators and Platform Lifts and Section 2.2.5,Interior Ramps)

• For classrooms and assemblyareas, libraries, etc. (SeeSection 2.5.13, Libraries,Section 2.5.15, MeetingRooms, Assembly Areas andTheatres and Section 2.5.17,Schools and Continuing Education Centres)

• For cafeterias (See Section2.5.3, Cafeterias,Restaurants, Dining Areas and Bars)

• For swimming pools (SeeSection Part 1: Section 1.3.8,Outdoor Swimming Poolsand Wading Pools andSection 1.3.16, WaterfrontAreas) (See Part 2: Section2.5.16, Recreation Facilitiesand Section 2.5.23, Swimming Pools)

• For Gymnasium (See Section 2.5.10, Gymnasium)

• For building services andsystems (See Section 2.4.1,Acoustics, Section 2.4.7,Electrical Power, Section2.4.9, Heating, Cooling andVentilation Systems andSection 2.6.5, Maintenance)

• For Signage (See Section2.4.16, Signage and Way-finding)

2.5.18 Seniors Housing

• Seniors housing projects typically accommodate persons from ages 55 to 95and as many as 25% mayhave some form of physical disability. In many cases,younger persons with disabilities are also part ofthe specific population oftenants and have traditionallybeen assigned "accessible"units. However, to accommodate the needs of all seniors who continueto age and may accrue functional disabilities (particularly in those agegroups over 75), it is wise to design the wholefacility to be "universallyaccessible", i.e, useable by anyone with physical,sensory, or cognitive limitations.

• For exterior areas and amenities (See Part 1,Section 1.2, Arrival andDeparture Areas and Section1.4, Outdoor Amenities).

• For interior routes andamenities (See Part 2,Section 2.2, Interior Routesand Section 2.3, InteriorAmenities).

• Within individual apartmentunits, it is recommended thatall hallways to bedroom andbathroom doorways be aminimum of 1065 mm wide to provide sufficientclearance for users withmobility aids (note: a minimum of 810 mmbetween door stops is recommended).

2.5.19 Residential Kitchens

• All kitchens, kitchenettes or counter areas used for food preparation should be made accessible to persons using mobility aids, with aisles between counters no lessthan 1065 mm wide. Where possible, turning space for awheelchair/scooter should also be available in dead end areas. A turning space of 1500 mm in diameter should be provided with clear knee space below counters.Suitable turning space andknee space below countersallows free movement andapproach by persons usingwheelchairs/scooters. (For variations in layout, seeFigures 152 and 153).





• In accessible kitchens and kitchenettes, all cupboards, cabinets and pantries shouldbe designed to be accessibleto persons using mobilityaids, with upper shelves nohigher than 1370 mm fromthe floor for easy reach bypersons using mobility aids.(See Section 2.3.2, Door andCupboard Hardware)

• Kitchen stoves ideally shouldhave front or side controls tominimize burns. Burns mayoccur from reaching over hotitems or open burners.Automatic off-switchesshould be provided where possible, to controlunattended/unused burners.

• Duplex receptacles (e.g.,power outlets), wheremounted above counterheight, should generally beno higher than 1065 mmfrom floor level. Duplexreceptacles should be locatedso that loose electrical cordsdo not cause a potential tripping hazard, especiallyfor persons with visual limitations.

• Clear counter space, a minimum of 300 mm wideshould be provided on bothsides of stoves for safe operation.

• Where microwave ovens areinstalled, they should belocated at counter heightwith a clear level area ofcounter in front, allowingeasy transfer of food items.In general, larger microwave

and convection ovens arepreferred by many personswith disabilities.

• Additional lighting should be provided over the sink,cooking and work surfaces toensure safe use of facilitiesby persons with low visionor limited dexterity.

• For persons using mobilityaids, consider the use ofside-by-siderefrigerator/freezer units to facilitate easier access.

• Generally, many personswith disabilities prefer "openconcept" kitchens – a designthat provides easier access,improved lighting conditions and overallgreater manoeuvrability,especially for persons using mobility devices.

1500 mm1500 mm

Figure 153

1500 mm

Figure 152

2.5.20 ResidentialBathrooms

• Bathrooms, washrooms orshower areas should be largeenough to accommodate persons using mobility aidsor a commode chair.Consideration should begiven to providing space fora wheelchair accessibleshower, in lieu of a standardbathtub. Where a bathtub isprovided, a transfer seat,level with the bath rim and at least 380 mm (deep) isrecommended at the endlocated opposite of the controls. A 915 mm long horizontal grab-rail, mountedat 835 mm high on the longsidewall, is recommended toprovide stability in entering,exiting or standing while inthe tub. (For variations inlayout, see Section 2.3.10,Public Showers andChanging Rooms and Figures 118, 119, 120 & 154)

• Bathtubs and showers shouldhave a non-slip finish in thestanding area.


• Lighting levels in bathroomsshould be evenly distributedand no less than 100 lux (10 ft. candles).

• Controls for bathtubs shouldensure that the hot watertemperature in the showerhead or faucet does not exceed 49º C tominimize accidental scalding. For faucets andmirrors etc., (See Section2.3.14, WashroomAccessories)

• Faucets and controls shouldbe of the "single-leveraction" handle type so thatthey are easy to use by persons with limited strength or grasp.



1500 mm

2440 mm

1500 mm

VARIES

460 mm

760 mmMIN.

455 mm

305 mm

860 mmMIN. CLEARANCE

DOOR

700 mm

Figure 154



2.5.21 Residential Bedrooms

• Ensure that enoughcirculation space is available for persons usingwheelchairs or scooters inthe master bedroom, at doorways, at closets andbeside the bed, to allow easy access and transfer. (See Figure 155)

• For hardware on doors, closets, and cabinetwork, and windows. (See section2.1.3, Door Hardware, Locksand Closers and Figures87 and 88)

2.5.22 Shopping Centresand Malls

• Shopping Centers and Mallsshould be designed toaccommodate persons of allages and disabilities.

• For exterior areas, parkingand pedestrian routes toentrances. (See Part 1:Section 1.1.6, Lay-Bys forVehicles, Figure 11,Section1.1.7, Paths, Sidewalks andWalkways, Figures 12 and13, Section 1.1.8, PedestrianRoutes, Figures 14 and 15and Section 1.2.5, Parking,Figures 25, 27 and 28)

• For exterior amenities (SeePart 1, Section 1.4, OutdoorAmenities)


• All interior routes should be accessible to persons using mobility aids. (See Section2.2, Interior Routes)

• For information and communications services (See Section 2.3.5,Information and Servicecounters, Section 2.4.5,Communication Systems and Section 2.4.10,Information Systems and Directories)

• For restaurants, cafes andbars (See Section 2.5.3,Cafeterias, Restaurants,Dining Areas and Bars)

• For cinemas and theatres (See Section 2.5.15, MeetingRooms, Assembly Areas andTheatres)

• For interior lighting (SeeSection 2.4.11, ArtificialLighting and Section 2.4.12,Natural Lighting) and forPublic Telephones (See Part 1: Section 1.4.6, Public Telephones)

• For fire and life safety strategies, alarms, etc. (See Section 2.4.8, FireEmergency Systems andSignals, Section 2.4.14,Public Address Systems and 2.6.4, Fire and LifeSafety)

1525 mm

RESIDENTIAL BEDROOMS

Figure 155

• For interior design, materials, finishes, colour,and texture (See Section2.1.6, Mats and MatSinkages, Section 2.3.4,Equipment and Furniture,Section 2.6.1, Texture andPattern, Section 2.6.2, FloorSurfaces/Textures, Section2.6.3, Colour and Tone,Section 2.6.6, Materials andFinishes, Section 2.6.8,Pattern and Section 2.6.9,Glare and Light Sources)

• For general maintenance ofinterior areas (See Section2.4.7, Electrical Power,2.4.9, Heating, Cooling andVentilation Systems andSection 2.6.5, Maintenance)

2.5.23 Swimming Pools

• Indoor swimming pools andrelated amenities, whether as part of a recreational complex, community centre,educational facility, or aspart of a recreational area ina residential complex, should all be accessible to persons with varying disabilities.

• For general accessibility requirements (See Figures 40 and 41) also (See Part 1, Section 1.2, Arrival and Departure Areas and Section 1.3.8, Outdoor Swimming Pools and Wading Pools).

• All pool area floor surfacesshould be easy to clean, non-glare, non-slip and finished with a light colourfinish, e.g.: matte ceramictile.

• For Building Systems generally (See Section 2.4.7,Electrical Power, Section2.4.9, Heating, Cooling andVentilation Systems andSection 2.6.5, Maintenance)

• For Public Swimming Pools a Unisex Changeroom/Washroom should beconsidered so that assistancecan be provided when needed, for persons of the opposite sex. (See Figure 156)

• It should be noted that where pools are to be usedfor special programming,(e.g., seniors swimming programs, mothers and babies / learn-to-swim programs, etc.), the ambienttemperature of the watershould be able to beincreased by at least 6º C e.g. to 27°C, to improvecomfort levels for less active users.



460 mm MIN.480 mm MAX.

865 mmDOOR

NOT TO SCALE

SHOWERCONTROL

DROPDOWNSEAT

GULLEY

1880 mm RECOMMENDED1700 mm MIN.

2890 mm90

0 m

m

HANDRAIL

PULL RAILSON DOORS

460 mm

SIDE GRAB BAR(REVERSED "L" SHAPED PREFERRED)

Figure 156



• Ambient air temperature inpools should generally be nolower than 25º C and nohigher than 32º C.

• Lighting over pool and deckareas, as well as in showersand changing areas, shouldbe a minimum of 200 lux (20 ft. candles), at deck or floor surface. Fixturesover pool areas should beselected and positioned tominimize reflected glare offthe pool surface. Fixturesshould also be positioned foreasy re-lamping. (See alsoSection 2.6.5, Maintenance)

• Natural daylight in poolareas should be controllableto minimize glare off thepool surface, especially fromsouth and west sunlight.

• Acoustic quality in the poolarea should minimize echoesand unnecessary noise, as abenefit to persons who arevision or hearing impaired.

• Signage in pools should besuitable for persons with lowvision.

• Exterior patios and landscaped areas adjacent toindoor pool areas should beaccessible to wheelchairusers. (See Part 1: Section1.3.2, Outdoor Eating andEntertainment Spaces:Balconies and Terraces)

2.5.24 Theatres and Media Display Areas

• All theatre or assembly areas providing live performances,films, music or educationalprogramming should bedesigned to be accessible toand useable by a wide rangeof persons, including thosewith varying disabilities, in avariety of seating locations,and price ranges.

• For general access, amenities, and support areas (See Section 2.1.4,Entrances, Section 2.1.7,Thresholds, Section 2.2,Interior Routes)

• For seating accommodation, equipment, and furniture(See Section 2.3.4,Equipment and Furniture,Part 1: Section 1.3, SpecialAreas and Features)

• For general building systems, heating, lighting,ventilation, controls, etc.,(See Section 2.4.1,Acoustics, Section 2.4.5,Communication Systems, Section 2.4.7, ElectricalPower, Section 2.4.9,Heating, Cooling andVentilation Systems andSection 2.6.5, Maintenance)

• For acoustics, communications systems,and listening devices (See Section 2.4.1,Acoustics, Section 2.4.5,Communication Systems and Section 2.4.13, Listening Devices)

• For fire and life-safety (See Section 2.4.8, FireEmergency Systems andSignals, Section 2.4.14,Public Address Systems and 2.6.4, Fire and LifeSafety)

• Where multi-media or inter-active media presentations are to be provided, every attemptshould be made to ensurethat persons using mobilitydevices have access to needed controls (See Section2.4.6) and that persons withsensory limitations canreceive the transmitted information through alternatemodes (e.g., by both visionand hearing, as well asthrough large text or Braille material).

• For fixed theatre seating, a variety of seat sizes and designs should be considered, (e.g., wider seatsand seats with flip up arms atthe end of aisles to assistpersons transferring fromtheir wheelchair or scooter).

2.5.25 Transit Settings

• Transit terminals, servingone or more modes of transit(e.g., buses and trains),should have all levels, facilities and amenitiesaccessible to persons usingmobility aids and others with varying disabilities.

• For general accessibility criteria for all exterior areasand amenities (See Part 1:Section 1.2.2, Bus/PublicTransit Shelters and Section 1.2.3, Bus Stops)

• For interior routes and publicamenities generally (SeeSection 2.2, Interior Routes,Section 2.3, InteriorAmenities and Part 1:Section 1.4, OutdoorAmenities)

• For ticketing, information,or sales counter areas (SeeSection 2.3.5, Informationand Service Counters,Section 2.4.10, InformationSystems and Directories andSection 2.4.17, TicketingMachines)

• For passenger queuing areas, passenger ticketing, and information, etc. (SeeSection 2.3.5, Informationand Service Counters,Section 2.4.10, InformationSystems and Directories andSection 2.4.16, TicketingMachines)

• For waiting areas, seatingand luggage holding areas(See Section 2.3.6, Lockersand Baggage Storage)

• For boarding areas generally (See Section 1.2, Arrival andDeparture Areas)

• For public washrooms (See Section 2.3.10, PublicWashrooms and ChangingRooms)

• For food service areas, vending machines, etc., (See Section 2.3.13, Vending Machines)

• For communications and information systems (See Section 2.4.2, AudibleSignals, Section 2.4.5,Communication Systems andSection 2.4.10, InformationSystems and Directories)

• For Signage and way finding (See Section 2.4.16, Signage and Way-finding)

• For public telephones (See Part 1: Section 1.4.6,Public Telephones)

• Where train platforms orother boarding platforms areprovided, they should allowsafe access for persons usingmobility aids and where possible, provide levelaccess to the train or busfloor surface.

• For persons who have visual limitations, a tactile warning surface at least 610 mm deepshould be provided at theedge of the platform. (See Part 1: Section 1.2.2,Bus/Public Transit Sheltersand Section 1.2.3, Bus Stops,also See Figure 157)





• Lighting levels in all boarding areas should be at least 100 lux (10 ft. candles) at the platform orboarding surface level.Lighting levels in all ticketing areas or at ticketingmachines should be at least200 lux (20 ft. candles).

• Warning signals, required to advise of approachingvehicles, should be both visible and audible to assisttravellers with visual or hearing limitations. (See also Section 2.4.2,Audible Signals)

• Where special lifting devicesare used, either on the vehicle or at the boardingpoint, enough free spaceshould be provided aroundthe boarding point for waiting passengers usingmobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs and scooters).

• Seating should be providedfor seniors and persons withlimited stamina on the platform or close to theboarding area.

• For general safety, emergency, and fire alarmsystems (See Section Part 1:Section 1.6.10, Safety andSecurity and Part 2: Section 2.4.8, FireEmergency Systems andSignals, Section 2.4.14,Public Address Systems andSection 2.6.4, Fire and LifeSafety)

THE DETECTABLE WARNING SURFACESHOULD BE POSITIONED PARALLEL TOTHE OPEN PLATFORM EDGE. IT SHOULD EXTEND FOR THE FULL LENGTH OF THE PLATFORM AND IT SHOULD MAINTAINA DEPTH OF 610 mm FROM THE OPEN EDGE OF THE PLATFORM.

Figure 157

POLICY: (SAFETY)

In public buildings and particular residential and institutional environmentsdesigned for seniors or otherswith disabilities, the safety ofresidents is of particularconcern. Therefore, everythingthat can be done to eliminateor minimize obstacles orhazards to normal safe access and use must be considered, aswell when a specific emergencymay arise.

2.6.1 Texture and Pattern

• People with low vision orwho are legally blind, arefrequently dependent upontactile and visual cues in theenvironment, both to findtheir way in complex settings, but also to be forewarned about potentialhazards. Way-finding strategies (e.g., signage systems) should utilize at least 70% (or greater) contrast. Note: One exception is the use of bright yellow, which is acceptableat 40% contrast.

• Persons who are blind anduse a cane or a dog to assistthem are particularly dependent on texture at thewalking surface, the acousticquality of the space, and theavailability of Braille orother tactile information etc. to alert them. However, persons with visual limitations are more dependent on contrast and colour and the amount

of light to determine wherethey are and whether hazardsare present.

2.6.2 FloorSurfaces/Textures

• Interior and exteriorfloor/paving surfaces should be of a non-slip and low-glare material.

• All level changes, whether atstairs, steps, escalators orramps should be marked byboth distinct colours/tonesand textural changes at thewalking surface. Changes intexture should occur, at least915 mm, or one pace, beforethe actual level change. (See also Figure 21). Note: Bright (‘industrial’) yellowor other saturated coloursfrom the warm end of thespectrum are most visible topersons with low vision.

• Suitable warning textures for interior use include: raiseddomes, dots or squares (e.g.,as found in some vinyl floorcoverings); deeply groovedconcrete, terrazzo or otherstone like materials (e.g.,with closely centred grooves,at right angles to the path oftravel); and applied non-slipstrips (e.g., carborundumstrips).

• Modern textures can also beused on wall surfaces as partof the overall way-findingstrategy.

• Supplementary textural cuescan also be provided (e.g., byusing different floor texturesor materials in major andminor interior routes) as an aid to persons who areblind or who have visuallimitations.

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS 2.6 OTHER


CUT LOOP CUT-LOOP

PLUSH LEVEL

CARPET VARIATION

NOTE: ONLY LEVEL LOOP, DENSE CARPET WITHOUTUNDERLAY IS SUITABLE FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS

LEVEL TIP SHEAR

FRIEZE MULTI-LEVEL RANDOM SHEAR

Figure 158

PART 2:INDOOR AREAS2.6 OTHER


• Clearly defined boundariesof carpeting or floor tile canenhance way-finding bydefining the junctionbetween walls and floors and by indicatingdoorway recesses, corridorintersections or projectinghazards, etc.

• Where carpet is used in areasaccommodating wheelchairtraffic a level loop pile ofnon-static nylon (or better) isrecommended with a pileheight no greater than(6mm). A glue-down installation is preferred. (See Figure 158)

2.6.3 Colour and Tone

• For signage, the use of brightcolour or highly contrastingtones is an essential part of asuitable way-finding strategyfor persons with low vision,minimum 70% contrast(except where ‘industrial yellow is used) in which case40% contrast. Colour can beused as a background for signage, located on walls ateye level. This band ofcolour is easier to followthan monolithic wall coloursand can be used as a constantlocation for all essentialsigns.

• End walls or return walls inlong corridors can also bedefined by the use of highlycontrasting colours or tones,to denote a change of direction or the end of the space.

• Baseboards in monochromatic environments should behighly contrasting (70% orhigher) with wall and floorcolours to provide neededboundary definition for persons with low vision.

• For seniors with vision loss,colours in the warm end ofthe spectrum are easier todistinguish. Colours such aspastel blue or grey should beavoided.

2.6.4 Fire and Life Safety

• In buildings used by seniorsor people with disabilities(e.g., visitors, residents oremployees) it is important toensure that a comprehensiveevacuation plan and operational strategies are in place in case of a fire orother emergency, since it isgenerally considered that suchpersons may be at greaterrisk and may be less able to autonomously evacuate than the general public. (See Figures 159 & 160)

EXITSTAIRS

ESCALIERDE SORTIE

Figure 160

SPRINKLER

FIRE RATED WALLS

A PROPERLY DESIGNATED FIRE COMPARTMENTATION ORFIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM WILL CONFINE THE FIRE

FIRE RATEDDOORS

FIRE CONTAINEDTO ROOM

Figure 159

• In buildings where personswith disabilities areemployed or are frequentvisitors, a fire and life safetyplan that will address theneeds of all building users is recommended.

• All public buildings withfloors above or below gradeshould develop a fire-safetyand emergency plan, indicating in detail the preferred ‘evacuation’ or‘holding’ area strategies for persons with disabilities - whether as employees or visitors.

• Such strategies may include separating certain areas ofthe building, to allow for‘horizontal exiting’ to a safearea on the same floor, or thecreation of ‘safe holdingareas’ in the same generalarea. (See Figures 161, 162and 163)

• Where safe-holding areas are provided, they should be equipped with emergency lighting, a two-way communication system, as well as separate ventilation so that they can be used when normalbuilding systems are shutdown. Such areas need tohave a minimum one-hourprotective enclosure.



REFUGE AREA REFUGE AREA

Figure 163

PRESSURIZED ELEVATOR SHAFT

ELEVATOR REFUGE AREA

Figure 162

FIRE DOORS

REFUGE AREAREFUGE AREA

INOPERABLE ELEVATORS

REFUGE AREAS WITHIN FLOOR AREA

CONTINUOUS FIRE SEPARATION

Figure 161



• Where a regular populationof seniors or persons withdisabilities is present in abuilding (e.g., institutions, orseniors residences) the firealarm system should be a 2-stage system linkeddirectly to the fire hall(wherever possible) to ensure timely fire departmentresponse. Alternatively,direct connection to a commercial security company should be provided.

• Specific strategies to provideearly warning of emergencysituations may also be desirable for persons withhearing limitations, e.g., aportable vibrating alarm, or a flashing light at their workstation may be necessary, in addition to general visible and audiblealarms. This strategy mayalso be desirable in accessible hotel accommodation.

• Since evacuation of persons using mobility aids (e.g.,wheelchairs/scooters) from floors above or below grade is extremely difficult in large buildings, considerationshould be given to the inclusion of a fire fighter’selevator that can be operatedby fire department personnelduring a fire or other emergency. (See alsoSection 2.2.4, Elevators andPlatform Lifts and Section2.2.6, Safe Holding Areas)

2.6.5 Maintenance

Despite all good intentionsduring the design stage of creating fully accessible environments, the success ofthe eventual project is largelydependent on decisions made by facility managers regardingspace utilization, security andmaintenance issues.

Training for maintenance staffshould address the following potential barriers:

• Objects added to the environment, includingwaste containers, recyclingbins, planters, vendingmachines, dispensers, staff equipment and furniture etc., which can result in tripping hazards and limited movement for persons whohave visual limitations, alongpaths of travel. Aisle andcorridor widths can also beobstructed limiting themanoeuvrability of personsusing mobility aids (e.g.,wheelchairs and scooters).

• Temporary signs on stands or mounted on walls anddoors can add confusion forpersons with low vision.

Similarly:

• Decisions on energy conservation often result in reduced lighting levels,potentially inhibiting the safemovement through buildingsfor all users.

• Maintenance staff maydecide to wax or seal a typically non-glare floor surface (e.g., matte ceramictile finish) using a high gloss polish/finish. Thisunwittingly results in potential glare problems for persons with visual limitations in cases wheresurface reflects glare fromoverhead or adjacent naturallighting sources. High glossfinishes on some floor surfaces also results inpotential slipping hazards for all users, especially persons with low vision.

• Maintenance staff may addrunners or mats on floors inentrances, hallways and corridors during winter conditions, in an attempt to minimize tracking.However, the layout may bedisorienting for persons withlow vision and it may alsoinhibit movement by personsusing mobility aids (e.g.,where mats become rolled orbunched up accidentally).

• It is therefore recommendedthat maintenance manuals be developed to includeinformation regarding thespecific needs and barriers faced by people with disabilities.

2.6.6 Materials and Finishes

• The selection of flooringmaterials can be critical tothe safe and easy movementof persons using mobilityaids, amputees as well aspersons with low vision.

• Carpet floor finishes in paths of travel should be suitablefor persons using mobilityaids (e.g., low level loopconstruction, preferably 10 or 12 gauge, with use of non-static fibres).Carpet should be firmlyglued down to the sub-floor.

• Where hard, monolithic materials are selected forfloor finishes, they should be non-slip and non-glare.(See also Section 2.6.2,Floor Surfaces/Textures andSection 2.6.9, Glare andLight Sources)

• Where floor tiles, bricks orpavers are used internally,joints should be no widerthan 6mm and placed levelto prevent potential trippinghazards, especially for persons with visual limitations.

• Ceramic tile used in washrooms, changing areasor on pool decks should have non-slip and non-glarefinishes.

• Wall surfaces in corridors,adjacent to stairs, ramps orany part of the normal pathof travel should be of non-abrasive finish. (See Section 2.6.3, Colour and Tone)

2.6.7 Obstacles

• For persons who are blind,have low vision or use amobility aid, unexpected

obstacles in their normal path of travel throughout abuilding can constitute amajor hazard. (See Section2.6.5, Maintenance)



685 mm

Figure 164

150 mm(TYPICAL)

VARIES700 mm




• Ensure that all items of furniture, equipment and displays are stable and willnot move or tip over whentouched by someone requiring support.

• Ensure that all temporary or permanent waste andrecycling containers arelocated in constant locationsto one side of the path of travel.

• Ensure that all items ofequipment (e.g., telephones,computers, video display terminals, printers and faxmachines) are located to oneside of the normal path oftravel and are canedetectable. (See Figures164, 165 and 166)

• Ensure that all signage, signage supports, or otherinformation strategies do notintrude into normal walkingareas. (See Figure 167)

• Ensure that all permanent or temporary barriers thatcontrol people’s movement(e.g., queuing lanes) arefirmly mounted to the floor,and are stable for seniors orother persons who mightneed them for support.

• Ensure that all maintenanceor repair equipment (e.g.,ladders and carts) is locatedaway from normal paths oftravel.

• Ensure that all temporarybarriers and hoardings, usedto protect work sites ormaintenance activities, are

substantial, securely mounted, continue to floorlevel and are cane detectable.(See Figure 168)

• Ensure that all loose wires,rugs or any potential trippinghazards at the floor level areremoved or made secure.

• Ensure that all essential and occasional furniture,equipment, planters, drinkingfountains, counters andvending machines do notintrude into normal paths oftravel. (See Part 1: Section1.4, Outdoor Amenities)

685 mmMAX.

685 mmMAX.

Figure 168

1100 mm

Figure 167

• Ensure that all permanent or temporary barriers thatcontrol people’s movement(e.g., queuing lanes) arefirmly mounted to the floorand are stable for seniors orother persons who mightneed them for support.

2.6.8 Pattern

• Caution is recommended inthe selection of heavy or distinct patterns on walls orfloors since these can addvisual confusion to settingsfor persons with low vision or for persons with psychiatric disorders, if over-used. Simple, repetitive and non-directional patterns with low contrast are preferred (e.g., for carpeting,floor tiles, wall papers etc.)in order to produce the leastamount of visual confusion.

2.6.9 Glare and Light Sources

• (See Section 2.4.11, Artificial Lighting, Section2.4.12, Natural Lighting andSection 2.6.9, Glare andLight Sources)

• Direct or reflected glare offof floor, wall or worktop surfaces is a major problemfor persons with visual disabilities. Therefore, everyattempt should be made to select light sources, materials, and finishes thatdo not add to the problem.Natural daylight should becontrolled (e.g., on west andsouth west exposures).

• Monolithic floor surfacessuch as stone, granite, marble or terrazzo should beselected in a matte or honedfinish to minimize reflectedglare. (See Section 2.6.2,Floor Surfaces/Textures andSection 2.6.9, Glare andLight Sources)

• Floor finishes such as vinyl,quarry and glazed tile,mosaics or other compositionmaterials should also be inmatte or satin finishes. Highgloss finishes should beavoided at all times.

• Wall finishes such as paint,vinyl wall coverings, stone,marble, wood, plastic laminate etc., should be inmatte or satin finishes only.

• Where direct sunlight maycause glare, curtains, blindsor sunscreens should be used to shield natural lightsources.

• Light fixtures should beselected so that no directglare is created (e.g., withdiffusers, lenses, or recessedlight sources). (See Section2.4.11, Artificial Light andSection 2.4.12, NaturalLight)

• Where surface mounted fluorescent ceiling lights are used (e.g., in corridors), it is generally recommendedthat they have darkened sides(e.g., no wrap-around lensesshould be used) and that theyare positioned at right anglesto the path of travel.Alternatively, they can beused in coves or valance typelighting at the sides of thecorridor. This ensures thatthe light source is not visiblefrom normal walking paths.

• Supplementary lightingsources can be used toenhance special features atkey locations (e.g., withupward and downward lightcomponents only).

• High intensity light sources such as quartz, halogen orother pin-point sources (e.g.,chandeliers) should be usedwith extreme caution. Suchlighting sources are generallynot recommended in circulation routes, dining or assembly areas because they are problematic for personswith low vision and producereflected points of glare onshiny surfaces.



APPENDICES


The City of Toronto would like to thank the following individuals for their advice, input and participationthroughout the consultation process.


APPENDIX A: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

City Departments

Shirley Hoy, Chief Administrative OfficerJoan Anderton, Commissioner, Corporate Services Paula M. Dill, Commissioner, Urban Development ServicesEric Gam, Commissioner, Community and Neighbourhood ServicesBarry Gutteridge, Commissioner, Works and Emergency ServicesJoe Halstead, Commissioner, Economic Development, Culture and TourismJoseph P. Pennachetti, Chief Financial Officerand Treasurer, Finance

City of Toronto Community AdvisoryCommittee on Disability Issues

Councillor Joe Mihevc, ChairWilliam G. AlexanderMichele Amerie, Co-ChairCarla BaudotWilliam A.L. Brown, O.M.C.Lyle L. KerseyJanice MartinRobert MorassutiAl Reeves, Co-ChairGerald R. RobertsJennifer ShinElsa TesfayTerri HulettDavid E. SenfBernita Lee, Coordinator

Consultants

Pamela Cluff, Principal, Associated Planning ConsultantsDavid Chan, Architectural TechnologistKevin Final, Researcher and WriterBoyd Hipfner, Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB)Shane Holten, Urban PlannerJulie Holten, Social ResearcherChris Kenopic, Ontario Association for the Deaf (OAD)Rick Mugford, Architect

City of Toronto Staff

Dylan Aster, Building, Urban Development ServicesJo-Anne Barnard, Human Resources, Corporate ServicesLorene Bodiam, Parks & Recreation, Economic Development Culture & TourismMike Brady, Transportation Services, Works and Emergency ServicesJohn Bryson, Technical Services, Works & Emergency Services Grace Buttino, Policy & Development, Economic Development Culture & TourismJane Byers, Human Resources, Corporate ServicesWalter W. Chandon, Emergency MedicalServices, Works & Emergency ServicesDavid Craig, Fire Services, Works and Emergency ServicesAnita De Castro, Facilities and Real Estate,Corporate ServicesGeoff Eden, City Planning, Urban Development ServicesPeter Fay, Service Improvements & Innovation,Corporate Services

In Memoriam

Sgt. Brian KeownMembers of the Advisory Committee are especially thankful for Brian’s valuable contribution.

*Brian and Ross sadly passed away before these guidelines were completed.



City of Toronto Staff (continued)

Ruthanne Henry, Policy & Development, Economic Development Culture & TourismKim Jeffreys, Human Resources, Corporate ServicesLinda Kelland, Facilities and Real Estate, Corporate ServicesSgt. Brian Keown*, Toronto Police ServiceWendy Kwong, Public Health, Community & Neighbourhood ServicesBernita Lee, Strategic & Corporate Policy, Chief Administrator’s OfficeLinda E. Lee, Transportation Services, Works and Emergency ServicesCatherine Leitch, Strategic and Corporate Policy,Chief Administrator’s OfficeFranco Lora, Culture, Economic Development Culture & TourismJoanne Lynch, Building, Urban Development ServicesCheryl MacDonald, Social Development &Administration, Community & NeighbourhoodServicesJulie Mathien, Social Development &Administration, Community & Neighbourhood ServicesDaniel McLaughlin, Policy & Development,Economic Development, Culture & TourismPaul Meleta, Building, Urban Development ServicesGerry Mitchell, Technical Services, Works and Emergency ServicesTony Pagnanelli, Technical Services, Works & Emergency ServicesRoss Paterson*, Policy & Research, Urban Development Services

Ceta Ramkhalawansingh, Strategic & CorporatePolicy, Chief Administrator’s OfficeKaren Raybould, Human Resources, Corporate ServicesTim Rees, Strategic and Corporate Policy,Chief Administrator’s OfficeRobert Stephens, City Planning, Urban Development ServicesDiane Stevenson, Policy & Development, Economic Development Culture & TourismHarvey Tham, Financial Planning, FinanceNicolas Zala, Facilities and Real Estate, Corporate ServicesSandra Zavaglia, Solid Waste Management, Works and Emergency Services

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The City of Toronto would like to thank all participants who contributed their time by providing input intothe preparation of these new Accessibility Design Guidelines.

All participants involved were committed to creating a practical planning and design resource that will ensure greater freedom of access and use to all buildings and sites in the City of Toronto.

Three reference documents include:

• City of Toronto, Accessibility Design Guidelines (ADG 1991)• City of North York, Barrier Free Design Guidelines (1996-1997)• Cities of Markham, Vaughan and Richmond Hill, Barrier Free Design Guidelines (1998)

Drawing Credits

Drawings were selected from a variety of sources including:

1) ADA, 1991, Vol. 56, No. 1442) APC Inc., Richmond Hill Guidelines3) CAN/CSA September 19904) CAN/CSA B651-1905) Design for Accessibility, Sorenson6) Guide to OBC, 1997.7) OBC Appendices8) Pedestrian Crosswalk Signals, 19879) Site Planning Design for the Elderly10) Sports and Recreation Provisions, 1984.11) Universal Access to Outdoor Recreation



The following definitions were adapted from "Planning A Barrier Free City of Toronto: A Statement of Planning Principles" (revised edition, July 2001), prepared by the former Toronto Joint Citizen’s Committee for People with Disabilities and endorsed by City Council1.

1. Physical Disabilities:Involve restricted mobility (e.g., limited ability to walk, move about, stand for long periods, or to carry objects) or restricted agility (e.g., limited ability to bend, dress, feed oneself, or to manipulate objects).

2. Auditory Disabilities:Involve having partial or no hearing. For some individuals, the loudness of the sound will determinewhether it is heard, for others, it depends on the type of sound (e.g., consonants versus vowels, or the intonation. In other situations, individuals may also become confused by certain sounds due to excessivebackground noises.

3. Visual Disabilities:Involve complete blindness, limited or residual sight. It may involve a loss of visual clarity/acuity or adecrease in the size of the visual field.

4. Intellectual and Learning Disabilities:The type of cognitive impairment can vary widely, from severe intellectual disabilities, to the inability toremember, to the absence or impairment of specific cognitive functions (e.g., language).

5. Psychological Disabilities:Psychological impairments may be hidden or apparent. In many cases, they have little or no effect on learning. They may appear in actions of indifference or other types of mood swings. However, the stigma that everyone with an emotional impairment will be ‘disruptive’ in social settings is a fallacy. The causes of psychological disabilities are wide ranging but common forms are evident in individuals experiencing depression, anxiety or stress.

6. Situational Disabilities:Persons who are at a disadvantage because of age, size, language or culture in specific settings are examples of persons who are situationally disabled.

Care is required in assessing existing environments or designing new settings to ensure that consideration of all of these variables has been undertaken.

7. Universal Design:Universal Design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatestextent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. The intent of the universal designconcept is to simplify life for everyone by making products, communications, and the built environmentmore usable by more people, while emphasizing dignity and independence by providing those features thatwill allow people to function in their day-to-day setting without assistance, at little or no extra cost. TheUniversal Design concept targets all people of all ages, sizes, and abilities.

(Copyright 1995: The Centre for Universal Design, NC State University)

1Clause embodied in Report Number 13 of the Administration Committee, as adopted by the Council of the City of Toronto, at its meeting held June 7th, 8th and 9th, 2000.


APPENDIX B: DEFINITIONS

1. Ontario Building Code

The Ontario Building Code (OBC 1997) is the formal mandatory legislation governing the construction ofall new buildings in Ontario. At the municipal level, the OBC requirements are administered and enforcedby the Building Division of the Urban Development Services Department. The OBC is currently underreview, (including Section 3.8 of the code which details barrier free design) and address accessibility undera variety of headings, such as parking, entrances, public routes, ramps, stairs, elevators, washrooms and other features.

2. Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2001

On December 14th 2001, The Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2001 (ODA) was passed to "improve accessand opportunities for people with disabilities". The ODA is designed so that municipal staff, governmentministries and agencies, transportation providers, the private sector and people with disabilities can worktogether in making Ontario a more accessible province. Formal regulations under the ODA were not finalized at the time of publication of these guidelines, however all municipalities are expected to developformal action plans outlining strategies to identify, remove and prevent barriers to persons with disabilities.These new Accessibility Guidelines are an important part of the City of Toronto’s response to that challenge.

3. Ontario Human Rights Code

Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, people with disabilities have the right to be free from discrimination in employment, services, goods, facilities and housing. The code promotes the full participation of persons with disabilities in society, participation in daily living activities that is often hindered or prevented by barriers occurring during the planning, design and development process.

The policy statements and accessibility provisions found in these guidelines brings the intentions of theHuman Rights Code into practice by encouraging inclusive design approaches to all development projectsacross the City of Toronto.


APPENDIX C: LEGISLATIVE OVERVIEW

Associated Planning Consultants Inc., Joint Municipal Guidelines for Accessibility for the Corporation of the Town of Markham, Town of Richmond Hill / City of Vaughan. Toronto, APC Inc., 1998.

Boundless Playgrounds Publication, High Expectations Playgrounds for Children of All Abilities.www.boundlessplaygrounds.org

Bowland, Adelyn; Nakatsu, Constance; O’Reilly, James, Annotated Human Rights Code 1993.Thomson Canada Ltd, 1992.

Canadian Parks and Recreation Association – Definition of Children’s Playwww.cpra.ca

Carstens, Diane Y., Site Planning & Design for the Elderly: Issues, Guidelines, and Alternatives. New York, Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1985.

City of Toronto, Bill 125: The Ontarians with Disabilities Act. A Submission to the Legislative Assembly of Ontario Standing Committee on Financial and Economic Affairs. Community Advisory Committee on Disability Issues, 2001.

City of Toronto, Ontarians with Disabilities Act (ODA) – Submission of a City of Toronto AccessibilityPlan. Policy and Finance Committee, Report No. 9, Clause 2, September 22, 23, 24 and 25, 2003.

City of Toronto, Toronto Official Plan: Chapter 3, Building Successful Neighborhoods – The Public Realm.Urban Development Services, May 2002 (Draft).

CSA International, CAN/CSA-B651-95 Barrier Free Design. CSA International, 1996.

CSA International, CAN/CSA-B651-M90 Barrier Free Design. CSA International, 1990.

Designable Environments Inc., City of London Facility Accessibility Design Standards. Designable Environments Inc., 2001.

Federal Register, ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities, 1991, Vol. 56, No. 144. U.S. Government Printing Office, 1991.

Guide de Référence en Accessibilité pour les équipements de Loisir,www.altergo.net/documents/Guide_ref_acc_equip_loisirs.pdf

Holten, Shane, Planning A Barrier Free City of Toronto: A Statement of Planning Principles. Report prepared for the Toronto Joint Citizen’s Committee For People With Disabilities, 2001 (Revised).

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Illustrated Guide to the Ontario Building Code 1997. Ontario, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, 1997.

Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Ontario Building Code – Part 3.8. Ontario, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, 1997.

APPENDIX D: BIBLIOGRAPHY


North York Interior Barrier-Free Access Working Group, Interior Barrier-Free Accessibility: DesignGuideline-Policy Handbook. City of North York, 1996-1997.

Ontario Parks Association. Playability Tool Kit; Building Accessible Playspaces, 2001.www.opassoc.on.ca/toolkit.asp

PLAE Inc., A Design Guide: Universal Access to Outdoor Recreation. California, PLAE Inc., 1992.

Province of Ontario Legislative Assembly, Bill 125: Ontarians With Disabilities Act. Legislative Assembly of Ontario, December 14th 2001 (Date of Royal Assent).

Sorenson, Robert J., Design for Accessibility. U.S.A., McGraw-Hill Inc., 1979.

The Access Board, A Guide to the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for Play Areaswww.access-board.gov/play/guide/intro.htm

Thomson, Neil, Editor, Sports & Recreation Provision for Disabled People. London, The Architectural Press Ltd., 1984.

APPENDIX D: BIBLIOGRAPHY


Mayor David Miller, Office of the Mayor

Councillor Gerry Altobello, Ward 35 Scarborough Southwest

Councillor Brian Ashton, Ward 36 Scarborough Southwest

Councillor Maria Augimeri, Ward 9 York Centre

Councillor Bas Balkissoon, Ward 41 Scarborough-RougeRiver

Councillor Sandra Bussin, Ward 32 Beaches-East York(South)

Councillor Shelley Carroll, Ward 33 Don Valley East

Councillor Raymond Cho, Ward 42 Scarborough-RougeRiver

Councillor Olivia Chow, Ward 20 Trinity-Spadina

Councillor Gay Cowbourne, Ward 44 Scarborough East

Councillor Janet Davis, Ward 31 Beaches-East York

Councillor Glenn DeBaeremaeker, Ward 38 Scarborough Centre

Councillor Michael Del Grande, Ward 39 Scarborough-Agincourt

Councillor Frank Di Giorgio, Ward 12 York South-Weston

Councillor Mike Feldman, Ward 10 York Centre

Councillor John Filion, Ward 23 Willowdale

Councillor Paula Fletcher, Ward 30 Toronto-Danforth

Councillor Rob Ford, Ward 2 Etobicoke North

Councillor Adam Giambrone, Ward 18 Davenport

Councillor Mark Grimes, Ward 6 Etobicoke-Lakeshore

Councillor Suzan Hall, Ward 1 Etobicoke North

Councillor Doug Holyday, Ward 3 Etobicoke Centre

Councillor Clifford Jenkins, Ward 25 Don Valley West

Councillor Norm Kelly, Ward 40 Scarborough-Agincourt

Councillor Peter Li Preti, Ward 8 York West

Councillor Gloria Lindsay Luby, Ward 4 Etobicoke Centre

Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, Ward 7 York West

Councillor Pam McConnell, Ward 28 Toronto Centre-Rosedale

Councillor Joe Mihevc, Ward 21 St. Paul’s West

Councillor Peter Milczyn, Ward 5 Etobicoke-Lakeshore

Councillor Denzil Minnan-Wong, Ward 34 Don Valley East

Councillor Howard Moscoe, Ward 15 Eglinton-Lawrence

Councillor Frances Nunziata, Ward 11 York South-Weston

Councillor Case Ootes, Ward 29 Toronto-Danforth

Councillor Cesar Palacio, Ward 17 Davenport

Councillor Joe Pantalone, Ward 19 Trinity-Spadina

Councillor Jane Pitfield, Ward 26 Don Valley West

Councillor Kyle Rae, Ward 27 Toronto Centre-Rosedale

Councillor Bill Saundercook, Ward 13 Parkdale-High Park

Councillor David Shiner, Ward 24 Willowdale

Councillor David Soknacki, Ward 43 Scarborough East

Councillor Karen Stintz, Ward 16 Eglinton-Lawrence

Councillor Michael Thompson, Ward 37 Scarborough Centre

Councillor Michael Walker, Ward 22 St. Paul’s

Councillor Sylvia Watson, Ward 14 Parkdale-High Park

CITY OF TORONTO


accessibility guidelines

Documents

minimize accidental scalding

passenger loading zones

continuing education centres

bus public transit shelters

fm broadcast system

limited manual dexterity

control peoples movement

lever handled type