Inclusive Environment

Bed Rooms

• The space around the bed should be adequate for access by wheelchair users.
• The space around the bed should be large enough for transfer by a wheelchair user, or for a helper to assist in the transfer.
• The bed should be at a height from the ground that permits wheelchair users to transfer easily.
• There should be bed-side table at a suitable height and position that permits a person lying on the bed to reach it easily.

Kitchens

• Floor surfaces should be of a slip-resistant material.
• Worktops, sinks and cooking hobs should beat the same level and a height suitable to wheelchair users.
• Adequate knee room should be provided beneath worktops and sink.
• Floor space should allow easy wheelchair movement between worktop, sink and cooking stove.
• Taps preferably should be of the mixer type, with lever handles.
• Where cooking facilities have control taps or knobs, these should be installed at the front of the appliance and be easily and safely operated by people with diverse disabilities.
• Where appropriate, oven doors should hinge downwards.
• Where solid fuel stoves are used, the needs of people using wheelchairs or crutches and blind people should be considered in designing for adequate operating space and safety.

Parking Space

• Accessible parking spaces should be located on the shortest accessible route into a building or facility, and should be roofed wherever possible.
• Parking areas should have enough clear space around them so that disabled persons can get into and out of a car.
• Reserved parking spaces for vehicles carrying persons with disabilities should be provided, indicated by the universally accepted symbol.
• Access route from parking lots to the building should be accessible by wheel chair users.

Storage Space

• Storage space of various kinds (shelves, wardrobe rails, cupboards and drawers) should be appropriate height and depth reachable by people in wheelchairs.
• A recessed space should be provided under storage units to accommodate the footrests of a wheelchair.
• Cupboard and drawer handles should be a shape which may be easily grasped by a person with limited gripping or pulling strength.
• Lockable drawers should be provided for each occupant in residential institutions.
• A refrigerator should be at a suitable height and depth for easy reach by wheelchair users.
• Sufficient floor space should be provided for wheelchair users to maneuver around open doors of cupboards and refrigerators.

Tables

• A space should be provided for wheelchair users at tables.
• A space should be provided for wheelchair user access to and from tables.