How many bother to engage the services, and take the advice of, properly
qualified Access Consultants - no one thinks twice about consulting Lighting
designers / specialists so why is access so different and why should
charities be expected to advise for free?
-----Original Message-----
From: G.D.Williams [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 25 January 2002 16:09
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Architects' perceptions of and attitudes towards disability
Hi Chris,
I do not know of a similar exercise but as one who tries to
implement DDA I find your research 'interesting' to say the least.
When architects provide drawings to me, it is not always easy to
see where features have been designed to help the client comply
with DDA.
Sure corridor widths, door layouts, presence of steps might be
discerned, but what about lighting, fire-egress, signage,
ironmongary, colour, texture of floors, handrails, fire-alarms etc
that sometimes are not explained on the avarage floor-plan ?
I prefer the designer to talk through his DDA design strategy with
me and also to provide a written strategy linked with the proposed
fire strategy.
Some kind of question/answer checklist could soon reveal the depth
of a designers awareness.
For CDM Regs purposes, clients are recommended by the
HSC published guide, to appoint a planning supervisor as soon as
possible to (amongst other things).. advise on the competence and
adequate provision for health and safety made by any designer...
Adopting a similar approach this could be done for design for
disabled people. Maybe using a simple questionair.............
Has the designer been on any courses? What about CPD?
What books or references did the designer prefer, when
considering disabled people within design?
Did they belong or subscribe to any particular organisation that
promoted and provided information regarding disability issues?
Did the designer rely purely on Part M building regs or did the
designer consider any broader issues or good practice guidance
documents?
Something along these lines might indicate a designers depth of
interest and awareness of the subject.
I wish you well with your project.
Glynn Williams.
Did they have an audit/check-off sheet to help them adequately
consider DDA?
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