Inclusive Environments Flashcards
What primary or secondary legislation impacts on inclusive environments?
Equality Act 2010
Disability Discrimination Act 1995
Building Regulations Part M
What disabilities might need special attention when designing or refurbishing premises?
- Mobility impairments
- Visual impairments
- Hearing impairments
- Cognitive and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities
- Sensory Disorders
How do you ensure that your projects meet high levels of inclusive design?
What standards and guidance might be relevant to your area of practice?
Building Regulations Part M
BS 8300: Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people
What is Part M of the building regulations?
Part M focuses on ensuring that buildings are designed and constructed to be accessible to all, including people with disabilities.
1. Access
2. Facilities
3. Arrival areas (car parking etc.)
4. Circulation
5. Signage
6. Adaptions and alterations
What other building regulations affect inclusive environments? Noise, overheating, electrical vehicle?
Part B - Fire Safety
Part E - Resistance to the Passage of Sound:
Part K - Protection from Falling, collision, impact
Part L - Conservation of fuel and power
Electrical Charging Infrastructure
What is the equality act?
The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination and promotes equality on the basis of nine protected characteristics.
Can you name any protected characteristics under the Equality Act?
- Age
- Sex
- Gender Reassignment
- Sexual Orientation
- Race
- Religion or beliefs
- Pregnancy or Maternity
- Marriage or Civil Partnership
- Disability
How does planning affect inclusive environments?
Planning can affect inclusive environments by ensuring developments consider:
1. Spatial Planning
2. Transportation Needs
3. Housing Policy
4. Community facilities
How does light, occupancy, air and welfare facilities affect inclusive environments?
- Lighting: proper lighting levels and quality can enhance visibility, wayfinding, and safety, particularly for individuals with low vision or mobility impairments.
- Occupancy and Crowding: Overcrowded spaces can create barriers to accessibility and mobility, particularly for individuals with disabilities or sensory sensitivities.
- Air Quality: Proper ventilation, filtration, and control of indoor pollutants can help minimize health risks and improve comfort levels for all users.
- Welfare Facilities: Access to welfare facilities, such as restrooms, changing facilities, and rest areas, is essential for promoting dignity, privacy, and comfort for all individuals, including those with disabilities or specific needs.
What types of buildings come under inclusive environments?
Applies to all buildings, places, and spaces, and to equipment, in and around new property or in the adaptation of existing property, as well as to services provided to the public.
How has Covid and/or Brexit affected Inclusive Environments?
- Digital Divide
- Disruption in support services
- Accessibility of public spaces
What building features can be implemented to ensure specific needs are met?
- Physical access; ramps or lifts for wheelchair users
- Hearing loops
- Parking bays
- Contrasting colours
- Non slip flooring and tactile services
- Refuge areas
- Accessible sockets and handles
- Grab rails etc
Can you name any relevant case law?
Royal Bank of Scotland vs Mr Allen (2009)
1. Mr Allen, a 16 year old wheelchair user, was unable to access local branch due to stone steps.
2. RBS breached its duty under the DDA act to provide reasonable adjustments for wheelchair users.
3. The court ordered that RBS install a platform lift by 30 September 2009 and that they pay Mr Allen £6,500 (plus interest) and his legal costs.
4. RBS appealed, and lost, Mr Allen was awarded a further £3,000.00 plus interest.
