CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES
Diversity Our Strength Contact us:
Diversity Management and Community Engagement Tel: (416) 392-8592 Strategic and Corporate Policy / Healthy City Office Fax: (416) 696-3645 Chief Administrator’s Office TTY: (416) 339-0889 City Hall, 11th Floor East www.toronto.ca/diversity 100 Queen Street West [email protected] Toronto, 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 Design Guidelines. The Accessibility Design Guidelines can be used by all sectors to conduct accessibility audits 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 key component of the City’s Accessibility Plan and meet the City’s objectives under its Plan of Action for the Elimination of Racism and Discrimination. The Guidelines are also in keeping with the City’s Official Plan which states, "A key city-building principle is that public buildings, parks and open 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 disabilities will be provided for City Council’s consideration later this year.
This resource guide is the result of the collaborative effort among community and professional experts working with City staff and Members of Council. I would like to express my appreciation to everyone involved in this project.
Shirley Hoy Chief Administrative Officer
April, 2004
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION I - III
PART I: EXTERIOR AREAS
1.1 Exterior Routes 1.1.1 Bridges with Pedestrian Access ...... 3 1.1.2 Crosswalks ...... 3 1.1.3 Curb Ramps/Curb Cuts on Public Right of Way ...... 4 1.1.4 Grades and Elevation Changes ...... 6 1.1.5 Guards and Handrails ...... 7 1.1.6 Lay-Bys for Vehicles ...... 7 1.1.7 Paths, Sidewalks and Walkways ...... 8 1.1.8 Pedestrian Routes ...... 9 1.1.9 Ramps ...... 10 1.1.10 Stairs and Steps ...... 11 1.1.11 Traffic Islands on Public Right of Way ...... 12 1.2 Arrival and Departure Areas 1.2.1 Accessible Routes to Entrances ...... 13 1.2.2 Bus/Public Transit Shelters ...... 13 1.2.3 Bus Stops ...... 14 1.2.4 Emergency Routes ...... 14 1.2.5 Parking ...... 14 1.2.6 Passenger Loading Zones ...... 16
1.3 Special Areas and Features 1.3.1 Amphitheatres ...... 17 1.3.2 Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Spaces: Balconies and Terraces . .17 1.3.3 Boardwalks ...... 18 1.3.4 Campgrounds ...... 18 1.3.5 Community Mailboxes ...... 19 1.3.6 Docks ...... 20 1.3.7 Grandstands and Viewing Areas ...... 21 1.3.8 Outdoor Swimming Pools and Wading Pools ...... 22 1.3.9 Parks and Parkettes ...... 24 1.3.10 Play Spaces ...... 25 1.3.11 Picnic Areas ...... 26 1.3.12 Sports, Fields, and Spectator Areas ...... 27 1.3.13 Terraces and Patios ...... 27 1.3.14 Trails and Footbridges ...... 28 1.3.15 Viewing Areas ...... 28 1.3.16 Waterfront Areas ...... 29 1.3.17 Wilderness and Conservation Areas ...... 29
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.4 Outdoor Amenities 1.4.1 Benches and Seats ...... 30 1.4.2 Bicycle Racks ...... 30 1.4.3 Drinking Fountains ...... 30 1.4.4 Mail Boxes ...... 31 1.4.5 Public Showers ...... 31 1.4.6 Public Telephones ...... 31 1.4.7 Public Washrooms ...... 33 1.4.8 Street Furniture and Vending Machines ...... 33 1.4.9 Waste Receptacles and Recycling Bins ...... 34 1.5 Outdoor Support Systems 1.5.1 Crosswalk/Pedestrian Signals ...... 35 1.5.2 Lighting for Exterior Areas not including roads ...... 36 1.5.3 Public Address Systems ...... 37 1.5.4 Signage and Way-Finding ...... 37 1.5.5 Snow-melting and Snow Removal ...... 38 1.5.6 Traffic Signals ...... 38 1.6 Other 1.6.1 Colour and Texture ...... 40 1.6.2 Construction Site Protection ...... 41 1.6.3 Freestanding Objects ...... 42 1.6.4 Garbage Handling ...... 43 1.6.5 Gates and Openings ...... 43 1.6.6 Landscape Materials and Planting ...... 43 1.6.7 Materials and Finishes ...... 44 1.6.8 Maintenance ...... 45 1.6.9 Obstacle Removal ...... 45 1.6.10 Safety and Security ...... 46 1.6.11 Snow Accumulation and Removal ...... 47
PART II: INDOOR AREAS
2.1 Entrances 2.1.1 Canopies and Weather Protection ...... 51 2.1.2 Doors and Doorways ...... 52 2.1.3 Door Hardware, Locks and Closers ...... 53 2.1.4 Entrances ...... 54 2.1.5 Glazed Screens and Sidelights ...... 55 2.1.6 Mats and Mat Sinkages ...... 56 2.1.7 Thresholds ...... 56 2.1.8 Vestibules ...... 57 2.1.9 Waiting Areas ...... 57
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES TABLE OF CONTENTS
2.2 Interior Routes 2.2.1 Aisles and Passages ...... 58 2.2.2 Corridors and Hallways ...... 59 2.2.3 Doors and Doorways ...... 60 2.2.4 Elevators and Platform Lifts ...... 60 2.2.5 Interior Ramps ...... 61 2.2.6 Safe Holding Areas ...... 62 2.2.7 Stairs and Steps ...... 63 2.2.8 Turnstiles and Control Gates ...... 63 2.3 Interior Amenities 2.3.1 Coat Closets and Coat Racks ...... 64 2.3.2 Door and Cupboard Hardware ...... 64 2.3.3 Drinking Fountains ...... 65 2.3.4 Equipment and Furniture ...... 66 2.3.5 Information and Service Counters ...... 67 2.3.6 Lockers and Baggage Storage ...... 67 2.3.7 Mail Boxes ...... 68 2.3.8 Mirrors ...... 68 2.3.9 Platforms/Daises ...... 69 2.3.10 Public Showers and Changing Rooms ...... 69 2.3.11 Public Washrooms ...... 70 2.3.12 Vanities and Work Surfaces ...... 71 2.3.13 Vending Machines ...... 72 2.3.14 Washroom Accessories ...... 73 2.3.15 Windows and Window Hardware ...... 74 2.4 Interior Systems and Controls 2.4.1 Acoustics ...... 75 2.4.2 Audible Signals ...... 75 2.4.3 Automatic Door Openers ...... 76 2.4.4 Card Access Systems & Security Systems ...... 77 2.4.5 Communication Systems ...... 78 2.4.6 Controls and Operating Mechanisms ...... 79 2.4.7 Electrical Power ...... 80 2.4.8 Fire/Emergency Systems and Signals ...... 80 2.4.9 Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation Systems ...... 81 2.4.10 Information Systems and Directories ...... 81 2.4.11 Artificial Lighting ...... 82 2.4.12 Natural Lighting ...... 82 2.4.13 Listening Devices ...... 82 2.4.14 Public Address Systems ...... 83 2.4.15 Telephones ...... 83 2.4.16 Signage and Way-finding ...... 84 2.4.17 Ticketing Machines ...... 86 2.4.18 Video Display Terminals ...... 87
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES TABLE OF CONTENTS
2.5 Special Facilities and Areas 2.5.1 Arenas ...... 88 2.5.2 ATM’s / Bank Machines ...... 89 2.5.3 Cafeterias, Restaurants, Dining Areas and Bars ...... 90 2.5.4 Churches and Places of Worship ...... 91 2.5.5 Office Buildings ...... 92 2.5.6 Clinics ...... 92 2.5.7 Community Centers ...... 92 2.5.8 Courthouses and Detention Areas ...... 93 2.5.9 Displays, Exhibition Areas, Galleries, and Museums ...... 93 2.5.10 Gymnasium ...... 94 2.5.11 Ice-Rinks ...... 94 2.5.12 Hospitals and Health Care Facilities ...... 94 2.5.13 Libraries ...... 95 2.5.14 Long Term Care Facilities ...... 96 2.5.15 Meeting Rooms, Assembly Areas, and Theatres ...... 97 2.5.16 Recreation Facilities ...... 97 2.5.17 Schools and Continuing Education Centres ...... 98 2.5.18 Seniors Housing ...... 98 2.5.19 Residential Kitchens ...... 98 2.5.20 Residential Bathrooms ...... 100 2.5.21 Residential Bedrooms ...... 101 2.5.22 Shopping Centers and Malls ...... 101 2.5.23 Swimming Pools ...... 102 2.5.24 Theatres and Media Display Areas ...... 103 2.5.25 Transit Settings ...... 104 2.6 Other 2.6.1 Texture and Pattern ...... 106 2.6.2 Floor Surfaces/Textures ...... 106 2.6.3 Colour and Tone ...... 107 2.6.4 Fire and Life Safety ...... 107 2.6.5 Maintenance ...... 109 2.6.6 Materials and Finishes ...... 110 2.6.7 Obstacles ...... 110 2.6.8 Pattern ...... 112 2.6.9 Glare and Light Sources ...... 112 Appendix A: Acknowledgements Appendix B: Definitions Appendix C: Legislative Overview Appendix D: Bibliography
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES INTRODUCTION
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 design guidelines 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 are intended to address the needs of people with disabilities with a wide range of impediments that limit their ability to access their environment that include but are not limited to mobility, sight, hearing or cognitive disabilities (see also Appendix B: Definitions). This document presents the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines and responds to the varying needs of the disability community. In 2001, 3.6 million Canadians living in households reported having activity limitations (Statistics Canada, A Profile of Disability in Canada 2001). The survey also indicated that in 2001, 1.5 million Ontarians had a disability, representing 13.5 per cent of the total 11 million Ontarians. Disability rate increases with age. The disability rate reported for persons aged 65 and over is more than 40 per cent and for persons 75 and over is more than 50 per cent. The demographic implications are 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 must lead 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 to increased opportunities for people with disabilities to access employment and to fully participate in the social, cultural, recreational, economic and political life of Toronto. Moreover, to compete nationally and internationally, 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 Council directing 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 practical examples 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 will be a building block in developing future policies, guidelines, standards and other initiatives that serve the needs 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.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES I INTRODUCTION
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 and numerous 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 Building Code (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 Ontario Building Code (OBC) have been noted as being “recommended” in these guidelines. The Building Division of Urban Development Services do not have the authority to enforce exceedences beyond the current edition of 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 design must 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 and communicating in an emergency; • emphasize dignity and independence, providing those features that will allow people to function in their day-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 and provincial legislation and published standards. Amendments and revisions to legislation and standards will require corresponding revisions to this document (see also Appendix C: Legislative Overview).
The City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines will be reviewed periodically to incorporate changes to the legislation, regulations and standards as well as new technologies and information. Where there are discrepancies between the City of Toronto Accessibility Design Guidelines and other legislation or standards the 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 other applicable law. The OBC describes a minimum mandatory level of design standards for accessibility.
II CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES INTRODUCTION
The Ontario Human Rights Code supersedes the Ontario Building Code. As a result, although a provider has incorporated barrier-free accessibility in accordance to the Ontario Building Code, the Ontario Human Rights Commission may deem a building not accessible. • These guidelines incorporate elements of Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standards CAN/CSA B651-95 "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 the need for and impact of accessibility in the built environment. These are described in the Ontario Human Rights 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 disabilities requires 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 and requirements as everyone else with dignity and without impediment. Where barriers continue to exist because 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."
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES III PART I: EXTERIOR AREAS PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES
PART 1: 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES EXTERIOR AREAS
POLICY: located so that the sidewalk temporary objects such as and the crosswalk are at pots, boxes and garbage All pedestrian routes should right angles to one another. containers. (See Section be safe and easy to use by a All such pedestrian routes 1.5.6 Traffic Signals and wide range of persons with should be free of obstacles, Figure 69) disabilities. Generally, such such as light standards, routes should be easily traffic signal supports, posts identifiable, clearly separated or catch basins as well as from vehicular routes, and free of obstacles at all times of the year. 1.1.1 Bridges with Pedestrian Access • Pedestrian sidewalks located on either side of bridges, should have slopes no greater than 1:20 (5%), and cross slopes no greater than 1:50, or (2%), wherever possible. • No sidewalk on a bridge should be less than 1220 mm wide where minimal pedestrian traffic is expected, and a minimum of 1525 mm wide where frequent pedestrian is anticipated SAFETY FEATURES FOR PERSONS WHO ARE VISUALLY IMPAIRED (e.g., two-way pedestrian Figure 1 traffic). • Handrails or guards located beside sidewalks should be easy to grasp at 50 mm wide ROADWAY (maximum) and mounted at a suitable height. SIDEWALK (See Figure 1) 3000 mm • It is recommended that MIN. pedestrian footbridges have ramp access rather than stairways. SIDEWALK
1.1.2 Crosswalks NOTE: DOUBLE LINES ARE USED AT 3000 mm PEDESTRIAN CROSSWALKS • Wherever possible, ROADWAY MIN. NOT AT INTERSECTIONS. crosswalks at roadway intersections should be
Figure 2
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 3 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES
• Crosswalks should have 1.1.3 Curb Ramps/Curb Cuts • Curb transitions to have suitable curb ramps at each on Public Right of Way a minimum length of end of the walkway where 1500 mm to provide safer sidewalks are provided, or • Curb ramps should be sidewalk ramp transition wherever level differences provided wherever there slopes. (See Figure 5) of more than 19 mm occur. is a level difference between (See Figure 2) the sidewalk, or pedestrian pathway, and the road • Intermediate traffic islands surface at all street corners, should include appropriate or wherever pedestrian curb ramps or, in the area of crosswalks are provided. crosswalks, be level with (See Figure 4) street paving. Such level areas should be clearly marked by white lines and/or PUSH distinctive highly contrasting BUTTON BUILDING ENTRANCE paving. SIDEWALK • Crosswalks should be at least 3000 mm wide and clearly marked by 100 mm painted ROADWAY white lines, or by using distinctive, highly contrasting paving materials.
• Pedestrian crosswalks ROADWAY located between intersections should include appropriate curb ramps at each end, and
be located so that there is a SIDEWALK PUSH BUILDING ENTRANCE clear view of traffic, in BUTTON each direction, and sufficient distance from Figure 3 the intersection to permit a safe crossing. • Wherever traffic lights or pedestrian crossovers (PXO) are provided, a clearly RAMP RAMP TRANSITION
identifiable pedestrian push CURB TRANSITION button should be located adjacent to the crosswalk and SIDEWALK mounted on a nearby post at 2000 mm a height of 1065 mm. Paving should be level at posts, providing at least 915 mm X 1220 mm clear approach ROAD area for pedestrians. 1500 mm 1500 mm 1500 mm (See Figures 3 and 69) CURB DEPRESSION Figure 4
4 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES EXTERIOR AREAS
• Curb ramps should be a • It is recommended to have Whenever possible, this minimum of 1500 mm wide a clear and level landing level area should be 1500 mm when the ramp is located on minimum of 1065 mm deep.(See Figure 5) a public thoroughfare, have deep, which should be flared, non-slip sides, and provided at the top of curb be of a clearly different, ramps in order to allow cane detectable texture (e.g., turning (left or right) of incised lines, 13 mm deep on mobility aids. 100 mm centres in poured in place concrete), from the surrounding sidewalk at right angles to the path of travel. (See Figure 5) • As an aid to persons with 1500 mm SIDEWALK visual limitations, curb 1500 mm
ramps should be finished at FLARED SIDE the lower edge with a 1065 mm 1500 mm
cane detectable rounded edge RAMP TRANSITION of 13 mm in height and where possible, be in a contrasting colour to the road 2000 mm ROADWAY surface and also be of a different textured material DETECTABLE WARNING to allow easy identification. SURFACE CURB DEPRESSION (See Figure 6) CURB TRANSITION • Generally, curb ramps should Figure 5 be located so that they are free of accumulated rainwater or melting snow, and contain no manhole covers, storm gratings, or
other obstacles that limit SIDEWALK free movement. Where catch PLANTING OR OTHER basins are necessary, they NON-WALKING SURFACE should be positioned on the upstream side of the crosswalk.
ROADWAY
DETECTABLE WARNING SURFACE
Figure 6
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 5 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES
1.1.4 Grades and Elevation 1.1.5 Guards and Handrails • Handrails should be of a Changes smooth, easy to grip design, • Continuous handrails should no more than 50 mm in • Wherever possible, grades be provided on both sides diameter; and mounted on roads and sidewalks of all ramps or stairs, or between 865 mm and should be designed so that wherever three or more 965 mm (above stair the slope of pedestrian routes steps are provided. nosings). does not exceed 1:20. (See Figures 9 and 10) • Wherever possible, accessible paths of travel should have a minimum number of curb cuts to keep sidewalk as level as possible. • Where elevation changes greater than 1:20 are necessary, and/or where steps are unavoidable, 865-915 mm properly designed ramps suitable for persons using mobility aids must be provided in close proximity. 150 mm • Where steeply sloping landscaped areas are located adjacent to pedestrian routes and where slope exceeds 3:1 (horizontal to vertical), a Figure 7 clear boundary edge; such as an up-stand curb or retaining wall, (minimum 150 mm high) is desirable as a locational aid for persons who have visual limitations. (See Figures 7 and 8) • Where the grade drop-off adjacent to the sidewalk is 50-100 mm 460 mm or more, a handrail 915 mm or guard is recommended as MIN. an aid to persons with visual limitations. (See Figure 8)
300 mm 460 mm
Figure 8
6 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES EXTERIOR AREAS
• A level section of handrail • Lay-by headroom should be • Sidewalks adjacent to lay-by should extend a minimum of a recommended minimum headroom should be a 300 mm beyond the top and clearance of 3555 mm for recommended minimum bottom risers of all flights of special transit vehicle and clearance of 1980 mm wide, stairs or ramps. (See Figure for adapted vans etc. to accommodate side-loading 19) Note: Handrails on the (See Figure 11) vehicles with hydraulic lifts. inside curve of stairs or ramps need not extend more than 100 mm. • Handrail ends should terminate either by turning down, or by going into the wall as an aid to persons HANDRAILS who have visual limitations. • Guards are required on both ramps and stairs wherever height differences are significant. • Guards and/or handrails,
where provided on terraces 30-50 mm or viewing platforms, should 40 mm FOR SMOOTH be designed so that a seated WALL SURFACES ACCEPTABLE PREFERRED person (e.g., wheelchair user) can see under Figure 9 Figure 10 the handrail or guard. • Handrails and/or guards should not be located within 1000 mm of any roadway.
1.1.6 Lay-Bys for Vehicles
3555 mm • Wherever regular stops for MIN. special transit vehicles are RECOMMENDED provided, a special lay-by area, free of other vehicular traffic is desirable. (See Figure 11) • Lay-by spaces should be Figure 11 level and a minimum of 3050 mm wide by 7925 mm long with a curb cut located towards the rear of the space.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 7 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES
1.1.7 Paths, Sidewalks and • Wherever possible, consider Such strips are to be at least Walkways the use of clearly marked 610 mm wide and separated continuous amenity strips at from the pedestrian walkway POLICY: the edge of the sidewalk to by a colour contrasted and All entrance paths/sidewalks in accommodate posts, mail cane detectable border that is a public right of way and/or boxes, trees, guy-wires, a minimum of 305 mm walkways for pedestrians and planters, bicycle racks and wide. (See Figure 14) persons using mobility aids vending machines, etc. must be of firm, level, and non-slip materials and are recommended to be a minimum of 1675 mm wide to allow two wheelchairs or scooters to pass one another. In no case should sidewalks be less than 1525 mm wide where two-way traffic is expected. • Sidewalks should be a maximum gradient of 1:20 FRONT GUIDE WHEEL (5%), except where site OF WHEELCHAIR conditions prevent this. (See Figure 22) SURFACE OF WALKWAY
• Walkways and paths on 13 mm private property should be MAX. a minimum of 1100 mm and widened to 1600 mm (1675 mm recommended) 6 mm width at 30 m intervals to PAVER MAX. accommodate persons using mobility aids. Figure 12 • Unit paving materials used in sidewalks, paths and walkways should be firm and LONG DIMENSION PERPENDICULAR level, with joints no greater TO ROUTE OF TRAVEL than 6 mm wide. (See Figure 12) • Where gratings must be located in sidewalks, no opening should be wider than 13 mm and bars of gratings should be perpendicular to the path of travel. (See Figure 13)
GRATING ORIENTATON
Figure 13
8 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES EXTERIOR AREAS
1.1.8 Pedestrian Routes POLICY Public Pedestrian routes should be designed to ensure the comfort and safety of all persons regardless of age or ability. • All active routes required to accommodate persons using mobility aids, walkers, or persons accompanied by guide dogs, should be a minimum of 1500 mm wide; COLOUR CHANGE BETWEEN WALK SURFACE AND CURB WOULD AID 1675 mm is preferred. THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED • All routes should be free of protruding obstacles, overhanging signs, branches etc., in the walking area, to aid persons with visual 150 mm 150 mm limitations. MIN. MIN.
(See Figures 14 and 15) REFLECTIVE POOL
• The maximum allowable Figure 14 protrusion of objects into any pedestrian route from grade to a recommended height of 2030 mm is 100 mm.
WIDTH OF WALK 1525 mm MIN.
100 mm MAX.
2030 mm MIN. RECOMMENDED
865 mm - 915 mm
Figure 15
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 9 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES
1.1.9 Ramps doors opening on to the • Ramps with slopes between landing. 1:20 and 1:12 require POLICY (See Figures 17 and 18) handrails on both sides as an aid to mobility. Wherever the gradient is more • An up-stand curb 50 mm than 1:20, ramps should be high or a solid barrier is provided that comply with the recommended on either side following criteria: of ramps for persons using • Ramps must be no steeper mobility aids, in order to act than 1:12, with individual as a safety stop for the front ramp sections no longer than wheels of wheelchairs and/or 9 m. (Note: 1:15 is preferred scooters. where space is available). • Ramp widths should be a maximum of 1100 mm 600 mm and a recommended MIN. 1670 mm (300 mm IF DOOR OPENS minimum of 1015 mm MIN. AWAY FROM RAMP) between handrails, to allow 1015 mm persons using mobility aids RECOMMENDED CURBS OR RAILS AROUND MIN. BETWEEN EDGES OF RAMPS AND LANDINGS to move easily and to grasp HANDRAILS the handrails if required (e.g., while ascending or descending). 1670 mm MIN. 1670 mm • Where ramps are required MIN.
for use by persons with 9 m visual limitations only, ramps MAX. up to 1525 mm are preferred, in order to allow space for a companion or a guide dog.
LEVEL LANDING • For intermediate level (INTERMEDIATE) landings, a minimum of 1670 mm in depth by the Figure 16 width of the ramp should be provided. Level landings at top and bottom of the ramp 1670 mm shall be a minimum of MIN. 300 mm 1670 mm by 1670 mm. MIN. (See Figure 16) 600 mm MIN. 1670 mm • Where ramps return upon MIN. 1670 mm themselves, or wherever MIN. 1670 mm doors open out onto the RAMP MIN. ramp, the level platform area shall be a minimum of 1670 RAMP mm by 1670 mm and an additional distance for any
Figure 17 Figure 18
10 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES EXTERIOR AREAS
• Handrails on ramps should • For all flights of stairs or walking surface, a minimum be mounted between 865 steps that are 2200 mm wide of 915 mm deep, (forward of mm and 965 mm, and or greater, an intermediate the first riser and continuous provide a smooth continuous (middle) handrail is from the top of stair), as an surface from the top recommended, as an aid to early warning of an impending to bottom of the ramp, persons with limited mobility level change to persons with without breaking the or vision. visual limitations. handhold. (See Figure 20) • Paving surfaces at the top • Handrails should extend a and bottom of all flights of minimum distance of 300 stairs or steps should include mm beyond the top and a cane-detectable and bottom of the ramp (See textured Figure 19). Handrail ends must be turned down or 300 mm curved into an adjacent wall 300 mm TOP OF GUARD as an aid to persons with HANDRAIL visual disabilities.
1070 mm 1.1.10 Stairs and Steps • Exterior steps should be of firm; non-slip materials with a recommended maximum Figure 19 rise of 180 mm, and a maximum tread length of
280 mm. (See Figure 20) 915 mm MIN. • Tread nosings should be DEPTH OF ONE TREAD clearly marked with either a brightly painted non-slip RISER finish and/or include an integrated non-slip nosing TREAD that clearly contrasts in
tone/colour from the tread. VISUAL HORIZONTAL TREAD DEPTH CONTRAST NOSING 280 mm MAX. • Continuous handrails should RECOMMENDED be provided on both sides of VISUAL CONTRAST all exterior flights of stairs or ON TOP OF NOSING steps, which include 3 or NOSING more risers. STRIP 38 mm MAX.
180 mm MAX. RECOMMENDED NOT LESS THAN 60
Figure 20
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 11 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.1 EXTERIOR ROUTES
• Exterior doors that open onto • Traffic islands should be at • Where the crossing surface landings should be avoided least 1500 mm wide (1980 at the island is level with the wherever possible, in order mm is preferred) to provide paving, the safe waiting area to minimize hazards to persons using mobility aids should be made clearly persons with visual and seniors with a safe identifiable by using limitations. Where such resting zone. different materials, colours doors are unavoidable, the (See Figure 21) or textures that are detectable landing depth should be by persons with low vision. increased to 1670 mm. No door should open onto any sloping section of a ramp.
RAMP WITH 1.1.11 Traffic Islands on FLARED SIDES Public Right of Way • Where traffic islands are required, they should be built of materials and finishes that are easily distinguishable
from the surrounding paving, 1525 mm as an aid to persons who are MIN. LEVEL CROSSING WITH DETECTABLE blind or who have visual WARNING SURFACES AT ISLAND limitations. • Pedestrian crosswalks that cross a traffic island should be level with the main crossing or have curb ramps for persons using mobility aids. Figure 21
LEVEL IDEAL ACCESSIBLE WALKWAYS
5% or < 1:20 Figure 22
12 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS EXTERIOR AREAS
POLICY: • Rest areas should be located • At least one seat, between to one side of walkways, be 405 mm and 460 mm high All pedestrian routes to the at least 1200 mm deep and should be provided inside the Main Entrance and/or other include space for a bench, bus shelter, since it would be accessible entrances should wheelchair, or scooter. suitable for seniors and other provide a safe, direct, level persons with limited stamina. and obstacle free path of travel For persons who are very for persons with mobility 1.2.2 Bus/Public Transit tall, or who have difficulty or visual limitations. Shelters sitting, a resting ledge, or 1.2.1 Accessible Routes POLICY substantial handrail, mounted to Entrances at 760 mm to 815 mm high Bus shelters should be located is beneficial. • Provide an accessible route on a firm and level base from the site boundary to the approximately 4265 mm by • All glazed panels forming Main Entrance and/or other 1830 mm and be at the same part of a bus shelter should accessible entrances of at elevation as the sidewalk or have 50 mm diameter decals least 1100 mm however walkway. Clearances around or a continuous coloured a 1675 mm wide is the shelter (particularly on the line, mounted at eye-level recommended, consisting side of the landing pad) should 1525 mm. Decals should be of a firm non-slip material. be a minimum of 1100 mm. positioned at no more than This will allow easy wheelchair 150 mm on centre, to • Accessible pedestrian routes or scooter access on all sides ensure easy identification to entrances should be used by pedestrians. by persons with limited designed so they do not (See Figure 23) vision. cross into vehicular routes. • The bus shelter design • In situations where should provide a clear view accessible pedestrian routes of on-coming traffic, and cross into vehicular routes, have a minimum interior crossings with suitable curb length of 2185 mm to ramps identified by bright accommodate persons yellow or white lines and/or using mobility aids. distinct paving should be provided. BUS SHELTER • Slopes of walkways should not exceed 1:20 (5%). Where BENCH steeper walks are necessary, OVERHANG (ABOVE) 920 mm nearby stairs should be 920 mm MIN. 920 mm MIN. MIN. provided and the slopes 1100 mm should be treated as ramps. MIN. 2440 mm (See Figure 22) MIN.
• Where the length of HAZARD ZONE 920 mm HAZARD ZONE accessible routes to MIN. accessible entrances exceeds 30 m, rest areas at intervals of 30 m are recommended. ACCESSIBLE BUS STOP BUS LIFT ZONE Figure 23
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 13 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS
1.2.3 Bus Stops • In no case should the number • Headroom clearance for van of accessible parking spaces parking spaces should be at • Waiting areas at bus stops be less than 4 for the first least 2750 mm. should be of level and firm 100 spaces (i.e. 1:25 parking materials, at least 2000 mm spaces) plus 2 spaces for • In multi-storey or wide by 12000 mm long, in each additional 100 parking underground parking order to accommodate spaces (i.e. 1:50). No less garages, at least one level waiting persons. than 1 accessible parking of parking should include space should be provided easy to locate accessible • Bus stop areas should be free parking spaces. of all street furniture, e.g., where the number of parking dispensers, vending machines, spaces provided is less • The walkway from waste boxes, planters, posts, than 25. designated parking to the signs and guy wires. • At least one accessible accessible entry to the parking space for wheelchair building should be no less vans, a minimum of 3660 than 1100 mm in width and 1.2.4 Emergency Routes mm wide and 5385 mm must be firm, level, non-slip material with a texture • Vehicular routes, used by long, should be provided for each 100 spaces. contrasted with the emergency vehicles (e.g., fire adjacent surfaces. trucks and ambulances), (See Figures 24 and 28) should be clearly identified by suitable signage and should avoid crossing METER (TO BE ACCESSIBLE) SIGN ON POST 810 mm primary pedestrian routes MIN. to the main entrance or CURB RAMP other accessible entrances wherever possible. 3660 mm
1.2.5 Parking POLICY 5385 mm Designated accessible parking space(s), whether external or internal, should be provided Figure 24 within 30m of the main accessible entrance and/or any other accessible entrances. • Provide a protected, or designated route from the accessible parking spaces to the main accessible entrance and/or any other accessible entrances. • Parking meters to be accessible for persons 4880 mm 8840 mm with disabilities. Figure 25
14 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS EXTERIOR AREAS
• Where covered or underground parking spaces for cars are provided, all access and exit routes, including ramps serving such spaces, should have clear headroom of 2100 mm below beams, pipes, or sprinkler heads, however 2285 mm is recommended. • All accessible parking spaces should be marked with the Figure 26 "International Symbol of Accessibility", (e.g., with
a paving sign and a CURB RAMP SIGN ON POST post mounted sign). (See Figures 26 and 27) • Accessible parking spaces should be a minimum of VERTICAL SIGN 3660 mm wide, with a ON BUILDING clear pedestrian aisle of 1200 mm. Where two accessible parking spaces are SYMBOL ON SYMBOL ON adjacent, the pedestrian aisle PAVEMENT PAVEMENT may be shared, and should preferably be increased to 1500 mm.
(See Figures 25 and 27) 3660 mm
1500 mm • Provide a suitable curb Figure 27 ramp from the accessible car parking area to any adjacent
sidewalk or pedestrian route 2000 mm where difference in elevation MIN. is greater than 13 mm. SIGN ON POST CURB RAMP 2000 mm CLEAR SPACE • All safe pedestrian walkways MIN. should be clearly marked (e.g., by the use of painted SYMBOL ON yellow lines and/or PAVEMENT distinctive paving surfaces). 3660 mm
5385 mm
1200 mm
PARKING AREAS Figure 28
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 15 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.2 ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE AREAS
1.2.6 Passenger of the boarding space, to • All designated passenger Loading Zones ensure safe loading and loading zones should be unloading. marked with appropriate • Passenger loading zones on signage utilizing the individual sites should be "International Symbol located within 30m of the of Accessibility". main or other accessible entrance. • Bus parking space at passenger loading zones should be at least 7925 mm
long by 3050 mm wide, to 1500 mm CURB RAMP
accommodate special transit SIGN ON POST SIGN ON POST vehicles. • Headroom clearance at car passenger loading zones should be a minimum of 2750 mm but 2895 mm is
recommended. 7315 mm • For special transit vehicles, such as WheelTrans Buses, SYMBOL ON the headroom clearance is PAVEMENT recommended to be increased to 3555 mm. (See Figure 30) 2590 mm 2590 mm • Suitable curb ramps should be provided at all passenger Figure 29 loading zones, where differences in roadway and sidewalk levels are greater than 19 mm. • Van parking spaces at passenger loading zones should be a minimum of 7315 mm long by 2590 mm
wide. (See Figure 29) 2750 mm MIN. • All designated passenger (3555 mm RECOMMENDED) loading zones should have a sidewalk or safe pedestrian zone, located behind the vehicle and at the passenger boarding side of the vehicle, a minimum of 2000 mm wide by the length or width Figure 30
16 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES EXTERIOR AREAS
POLICY • Balcony or terrace surfaces • Balcony depths should be a should be of firm non-slip minimum recommended of All areas and special features materials, laid to fall (no 1830 mm to allow free of a site or facility, normally greater than 5%) to ensure rotation of mobility aids. used or available to members rapid removal of water (See Figure 31) of the general public, should or melting snow. be accessible to and useable • Doors opening out, onto by people with varying • Balcony or terrace handrails balconies or terraces, should disabilities. or guards should comply be located where they open with OBC requirements and against a sidewall or rail. 1.3.1 Amphitheatres should be designed to allow This ensures doors do not clear vision below the rails constitute a hazard to • Exterior amphitheatres or for persons seated in persons who have visual performance areas should wheelchairs wherever limitations as well as include seating areas that are possible. Note: The top permitting optimum accessible to persons using surface of the rail should access by persons using mobility aids. At least two also be designed to be mobility aids. spaces should be provided graspable, to assist persons side by side. A minimum with limited stability. of 2% of all spaces is (See also Section 1.1.5, recommended for persons Guards and Handrails) using mobility aids. • Fixed or portable seating should include some seats with back supports and arm rests to accommodate seniors or others with limited stability.
1.3.2 Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Spaces Balconies and Terraces
• Exterior residential and 1070 mm public balconies or terraces should be accessible from interior spaces with thresholds no higher than 13 mm.
• Where greater differences in 1830 mm elevation are unavoidable, RECOMMENDED short ramps with a maximum rise of 150 mm, maximum Figure 31 pitch of 1:7.5 and maximum length of 1200 mm should be utilized.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 17 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES
1.3.3 Boardwalks 1.3.4 Campgrounds 3% accessible campsites close to essential amenities, such as • Where boardwalks are • Municipal campgrounds washrooms and showers. provided, (e.g., at beach or should include at least waterfront locations), they should be at least 1675 mm 1200 mm 915 mm wide to allow two persons in MIN. MIN. wheelchairs to pass easily. (See Figure 32)
• Boardwalk surfaces BENCH 1200 mm should be of firm, non-slip MIN. materials. Where wooden 600 mm boardwalks are provided, MIN. planks should be laid perpendicular to the normal path of travel with joint widths no greater than 6 mm. 1675 mm MIN. • Where the grade drop-off on any side is greater than 205 mm, a contrasting, continuous stand up edge WALKWAY PROVIDE SURFACE CONTRAST WALKWAY of at least 150 mm high is TO DENOTE SEATING AREA recommended as an aid to persons with visual or NOTE: PROVIDE SEATING OPPORTUNITIES EVERY 90 m ALONG PATHS OF TRAVEL mobility limitations. Figure 32 • Where the grade drop-off is greater than 460 mm, handrails or other suitable 19825 mm guards are recommended. (See Section 1.1.5, Guards 3660 mm and Handrails) 6100 mm MIN. 3050 mm • Roads, paths, sidewalks, or
other pedestrian approaches GRILL to the boardwalk should allow easy wheelchair or 19825 mm 7620 mm PARKING BARRIER scooter access via level sur- 4875 mm faces and/or suitably ramped 14750 mm access points. • Benches and/or garbage cans should be located to one side ASPHALT of the boardwalk on level, firm surfaces at the same elevation as the boardwalk.
CAMPGROUND ROAD Figure 33
18 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES EXTERIOR AREAS
• Accessible campsites should be level with adjacent grades, be of a firm free draining surface, and include adjacent accessible parking. (See Figure 33)
• Picnic tables and barbecue 610 mm – 915 mm pits in close proximity to 610 mm accessible campsites should MIN. be wheelchair accessible. (See Figure 34) Figure 34
• A firm surface, roadway, or • Community mailboxes • Where designated boxes are path should be available should be mounted on level, not available for wheelchair between the accessible firm, and free-draining users, a minimum of 10% of campsite, accessible surfaces. A minimum clear boxes should be mounted so washrooms, and showers or approach area of 1370 mm that the lock is no higher other campground amenities. by 1525 mm should be than 1220 mm and no • Accessible campsites should provided to allow access by lower than 460 mm. persons using mobility aids. include an accessible hydro • All numbers on mail boxes outlet to allow recharging of should be at least 19 mm batteries for electric mobility high for easy identification aids. and be colour or tone differentiated from the 1.3.5 Community Mailboxes mailbox surface. POLICY Community mailboxes should be located in highly visible locations to one side of LAMP POST pedestrian routes or roadways. 2 4 (See Canada Post Guidelines for Community Mailboxes). 200 mm • Where provided, parking MIN. spaces or lay-bys at community mailboxes should 3 6 CONCRETE include sufficient space for PAVEMENT a wheelchair user’s van. • An accessible curb ramp UNIVERSAL ACCESS should be provided to permit MAXIMUM SLOPE ie: 5% access from the road surface and/or parking locations by various mobility aids. 1525 mm (See Figure 35) COMMUNITY MAILBOX - ACCESS MIN. Figure 35
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 19 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES
• All other amenities at the • Elevation changes of 205 • Steps down into the water community mail box (e.g., mm or less can be ramped for swimming areas or/at mail slots, stamp machines, at 1:8. docks should include etc.), should be approachable handrails on both sides, and useable by persons using • Where dock surfaces are extending to a minimum mobility aids. (See the located more than 460 mm of 610 mm above the dock Canada Post Accessibility above the normal water surface, and returned Guidelines for Community surface (e.g., floating docks), down to the dock. Mailboxes) a suitable guardrail should be provided. • Steps should provide a safe • Garbage cans should be entering position for persons • Where dock surfaces are located close to community with limited vision or 205 mm or less above the mailboxes; however, they stability. (See Figure 37) should be placed to one side water, a contrasting stand of the normal paths of travel. up edge of at least 150 mm high is recommended, on all exposed sides. 1.3.6 Docks POLICY Fishing, boating, or swimming docks should be accessible to persons with varying disabilities. 1070 mm (See Figures 36 & 37) 865 - 915 mm • Paths, boardwalks and/or 150 mm 460 mm other routes to docks should be made of level and firm material that provides direct ACCESSIBLE FISHING DOCK access without changes in Figure 36 elevation. Where inclined routes are unavoidable, the gradient should be no greater than 1:20. (See Section 1.2.1, Accessible Routes to Entrances, Figure 22) • Grades steeper than 1 in 20 should be designed as a ramp, with a slope gradient no greater than 1:12. (See Section 1.1.9, Ramps) • Handrails should be provided on both sides of ramps at 1:12 gradient. (See also
Section 1.2.1, Accessible 150 mm Routes to Entrances, 600 mm Figure 22) ACCESSIBLE ENTRY TO WATER Figure 37
20 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES EXTERIOR AREAS
1.3.7 Grandstands and • Seat heights should be no Walkway behind wheelchair Viewing Areas greater than 460 mm above positions should be a floor level and no less than minimum of 1200 mm wide POLICY 405 mm. (any width reductions must comply with the OBC) Where exterior grandstands • Aisles leading to accessible and viewing areas are seating areas should have • Viewing areas at scenic provided, accessible seating slopes no greater than 1:20 at lookouts etc., should be spaces for persons using any point. accessible to persons using mobility aids should various mobility aids such as be available in all price ranges. wheelchairs or scooters. (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 of event. MAINTAIN REQUIRED AISLE WIDTH • Clear floor space for a CLEAR VIEW person using a wheelchair should be a minimum of 900 mm wide by 1500 mm deep without reducing required aisle space for side approach and 1200 mm long for front or rear entry. (See also Figure 39) • At least two spaces should be provided side by side in each accessible location to Figure 38 allow for a companion. • Wheelchair seating areas should be made of level, firm and of non-slip material. • Where guardrails, handrails or fences separate viewing 900 mm areas from performance areas, care should be taken to ensure that sight lines are 1200 mm
appropriate. A MINIMUM OF TWO WHEELCHAIR POSITIONS • Fixed seating, benches, or IN ANY ONE LOCATION loose seating areas should IS RECOMMENDED include some seating with back supports and arm rests for seniors (or others) with AISLE AISLE limited stability. Figure 39
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 21 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES
• Where pay-per-view • Pool perimeter tile or • The walls and floors of telescopes etc. are available, finishes should be easy to swimming pools should have at least one location should clean and non-abrasive, to a light coloured finish for be accessible to persons minimize skin damage, increased safety. using mobility aids. Viewing with rounded edges at all lenses and controls should pool boundary locations. • Adequate drainage should be be mounted no higher than provided on the pool deck to 1200 mm above grade. remove water quickly at all times.
1.3.8 Outdoor Swimming EDGE OF POOL Pools and Wading Pools OUTDOOR POOLS
BOTH SHALLOW STEPS POLICY AND RAMPS WITH ADJACENT HANDRAILS ALLOW INDEPENDENT Outdoor swimming and wading ACCESS TO THE WATER. pools should be accessible to persons of varying ages or varying disabilities. • Swimming pools should be generally of "level-deck" design to allow easy entry and exit to the pool. Where Figure 40 a stand up edge is provided around the perimeter of the pool, it should be a 865 – 965 mm recommended minimum of 300 mm 205 mm high, and no higher than 405 mm. The top edge should be of 305 mm wide to allow for a seated person. • Pool boundaries should be
clearly defined by a textural 865 – 965 mm change and be of a bright colour or sharp contrast (e.g.: 70% light reflectance difference) to both the water surface and the surrounding Figure 41 paving as an aid to persons with visual limitations.
(See Figures 42 & 43) DETECTABLE LIP AND TEXTURED SURROUND DECK DRAIN • All materials and finishes POOL used on the pool perimeter, on the deck or on paved areas surrounding the pool, should be of firm, non-slip materials. Figure 42
22 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES EXTERIOR AREAS
• Drainage tile, scuppers, or • In public swimming pools, • Built-in ramps into pools trenches should be designed where there is no autonomous should be sloped at 1:12, to minimize accidental access for persons with have handrails on both sides tripping and have no disabilities, some provision (See Figures 40 and 41), and openings greater than 13 mm. for transferring persons be positioned where it does • Pool depth markings as well from wheelchairs into the not interfere with swimming as SHALLOW END’ and water should be available. lanes. Wherever possible, ‘DEEP END’ signage should • Wading pool access should be in highly contrasting permanent ramps are preferred to portable lifts. be safe and gradual so that colours and of sufficient size children with disabilities that is easily visible to can be assisted into the persons with low vision. water easily and/or use a • Where diving boards or wheelchair to enter. platforms are provided, they should be clearly marked and SURROUNDING protected so that persons PAVING with visual limitations do 1800 mm not accidentally walk below. • Handrails should be provided 915 mm on both sides of access steps into the pool, and extend at SHALLOW END least 300 mm onto the pool
deck. (See Figures 40, 41 1015 mm and 44) • Swimming pools, lanes, or 1800 mm lane markers should be in highly contrasting colours. POOL Tie-off devices for lane BOUNDARY markers should be located where they do not constitute Figure 43 a potential tripping hazard. • Starter blocks (for competitive racing) should
be capable of being securely GUARDRAIL GUARDRAIL fixed in place without posing a tripping hazard. • Storage of safety gear or
other equipment around the 305 mm MIN. pool should be positioned POOL SURROUND where it does not constitute a hazard to persons with visual 1015 mm limitations. 180 mm MIN. • Lifeguard chairs or other pool
related structures should be RECESSED STEPS painted in highly contrasting Figure 44 colours.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 23 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES
1.3.9 Parks and Parkettes • All garbage containers, • For accessible park amenities light standards, or other such as public washrooms, POLICY obstructions should be changing rooms, or Public parks, parkettes, and located to one side of telephones, see Sections playgrounds should be all paths and/or active 1.4.6, Public Telephones designed to be used by playing areas, as an aid and Section 1.4.7, Public people with varying to children with visual Washrooms. abilities/disabilities and limitations. (See also with universal access Sections 1.4.8, Street principles in mind. Furniture and Vending Machines and Section 1.4.9, • Entrance gates, parking Waste Receptacles and areas, paths and walkways Recycling Bins) through the park should be fully accessible to persons using mobility aids. (See also section 1.1.7 Paths, Sidewalks, and Walkways and Section 1.2.5, Parking) • Play areas and recreational equipment, or other amenities should generally
be designed to be accessible HEIGHT to and useable by children ADJUSTABLE APPARATUS with varying abilities/ disabilities. (see fig. 45 and 46) • Park benches or seating areas should be readily available for children and older
persons. Benches and ADJUSTABLE BASKETBALL HOOPS seating areas should be Figure 45 accessible to a variety of users. • Where planting beds are provided, consider the use of raised beds, fragrant planting materials, and Braille signage as an added value to persons who have visual limitations or for persons using mobility aids. (See also section 1.6.6. Landscapes, Materials, and Planting) A LOW PLATFORM HELPS CHILDREN TRANSFER ONTO PLAY EQUIPMENT Figure 46
24 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES EXTERIOR AREAS
1.3.10 Play Spaces 1:12 (1:15 preferred), and • Play areas separated by the recommended minimum age appropriate equipment, The Canadian Parks and width of 1015 mm (between including a junior area for Recreation Association Policy handrails), for a maximum use generally for children states that play develops sloped distance of 9 m. under 5 years of age and inter-personal and social Landings are to have a a senior area for use awareness, intelligence and minimum 2% cross-slope to generally for children/ physical skills and that play allow adequate drainage and youth 5-12 years of age. is an equalizing medium would accommodate changes This separation of age for children with differing of direction or rest sites as groups makes supervision abilities/disabilities (Canadian needed on accessible routes, easier for the parent(s) or Parks and Recreation (See also Section 1.1.9 care-givers. It is the Association website). Ramps). parent(s)/caregiver(s) Consequently, the City of • An accessible resilient who are most familiar with Toronto is planning on surfacing compliant with a child’s capabilities and it is prioritising certain play spaces current Canadian Safety their judgements which will to be designed as inclusive Association Standards, and ensure safe use of equipment for all children, including any applicable referenced by children, regardless of children and youth with portions of the current their age. varying abilities/disabilities. American Society for Testing • A diversity of play components This prioritisation will be and Materials Standard chosen carefully to engage based on programming needs, Specifications for Impact multiple senses, develop community input, and a Attenuation of Surface skills and encourage social physical analysis of sites. Systems Under and Around interaction (examples of this Below is a brief description Playground Equipment are talking tubes, Personal of the basic components to (ASTM 1292) and Communication Systems, be integrated in identified Determination of and interactive, musical, inclusive play spaces, Accessibility to Surface ore educational panels). (additional references are at Systems Under and Play components are to be the end of this section). Around Playground linked to an accessible route Inclusive play spaces are Equipment (ASTM 1951). through the playground. to implemented with the An accessible surfacing is One of each type of play following: to be firm, stable and slip component is to be accessible • An accessible route to the resistant enough to be and a minimum of 50% of play space from accessible accessible by individuals all play components should parking spaces. An using mobility aids or be accessible for small accessible route is defined wheelchairs. The surface playgrounds (10 or less play as a pathway specifically needs the ability to drain components), or 75% for designed to provide access rapidly to avoid the hazards larger playgrounds. for individuals with of ice or water accumulation. disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs or mobility devices, with a 480 mm minimum clear width MIN. distance of 1500 mm (1675 mm preferred) and a maximum slope of 1:20. Ramps are needed wherever 685 mm the slope exceeds 1:20. The MIN. maximum slope for a ramp is
Figure 47
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 25 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES
Specific details for accessible • Some picnic tables and them from one or both ends components can be referenced benches should be located and provide adequate knee elsewhere below, but would near accessible paths and and armrest clearance. generally include wheelchair (See Figures 47, 48 and 49) access. walkways for persons using mobility aids. These guidelines are not • Garbage cans, barbecues intended to be comprehensive • Accessible picnic tables or and woodpiles etc., located and finalised, they will be benches should be available adjacent to accessible revised and updated with new in a variety of sunny and picnic areas, should be information as it becomes shady locations. approachable and useable by available on how to best include persons using mobility aids. children of all abilities. • The design of picnic tables should allow persons using References: mobility aids to approach Boundless Playgrounds Publication, High Expectations Playgrounds for Children of All
Abilities. 2030 mm MIN. www.boundlessplaygrounds.org PICNIC TABLE Canadian Parks and Recreation Association – Definition of Children’s Play 760 mm www.cpra.ca MIN. Guide de Référence en Accessibilité pour les 2030 mm 2030 mm équipements de Loisir MIN. MIN. www.altergo.net/documents/ 2030 mm Guide_ref_acc_equip_loisirs.pdf MIN. A Guide to the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility FIRM LEVEL GROUND Guidelines for Play Areas www.access-board.gov/ Figure 48 play/guide/intro.htm Playability Tool Kit; Building Accessible Playspaces, 2001. Ontario Parks Association. www.opassoc.on.ca/toolkit.asp
1.3.11 Picnic Areas POLICY Public picnic areas including 685 mm parking areas and entrances MIN. should be accessible to persons of all ages and disabilities.
Figure 49
26 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES EXTERIOR AREAS
• Grades in accessible picnic 1.3.13 Terraces and Patios • Where grade differences of areas should be no greater 150 mm or less occur, short than 1:30. (See Section POLICY ramps of 1:7.5 can be 1.1.4, Grades and Elevation Exterior terraces and patios created. Grade differences Changes) should be accessible to persons more than 150 mm, ramps of • Where public parking is using mobility aids. 1:12 will be required. available, at least four spaces (See Section 1.1.4, Grades • Access from exterior doors and Elevation Changes) for the first 100 parking to interior areas should be spaces should be designed to level or have sloped be accessible to persons with thresholds no greater than disabilities. 13 mm. • Some accessible parking spaces should be located 915 mm within 30 m of accessible picnic areas. (See also Section 1.2.5, Parking)
380 mm 1.3.12 Sports, Fields, and Spectator Areas POLICY 1015 mm Public sports fields, parking areas, entrances and spectator areas should be accessible to persons with varying disabilities. • Controlled access points Figure 50 (e.g., turnstiles), should be
designed to accommodate KEEP BRANCHES AND the free movement of OBSTRUCTIONS OUT OF THE WAY wheelchairs or scooters via an adjacent gate at minimum 915 mm wide. 1525 mm (See Figure 50) • Level, accessible seating areas should be provided beside sports fields for both 1980 mm MIN. spectators and athletes with 2030 mm RECOMMENDED disabilities. A SEAT FOR THOSE NEEDING TO REST • For public viewing areas, See Section 1.3.15, Viewing Areas) For Public Washrooms, Showers, and Changing Rooms (See Section 1.4, Outdoor Amenities) Figure 51
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 27 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES
• Terraces or patios should be routes should be provided Landscape Materials and of firm level materials laid to nearby wherever possible Planting) drain at slopes of not more and should include steps and • Slopes on bridges should not than 1:50. Joints in ramps. (See Sections 1.1.9, exceed 1:20 (5%). patio/terrace materials should Ramps and Section 1.1.10, not exceed 6 mm wide. Stairs and Steps) • Patios or terraces that are • Where steps, ramps or 1.3.15 Viewing Areas 600 mm or more above grade footbridges are required, the • Where special viewing should have suitable guards. surface of the bridge should locations are provided The top rail of such guards be of non-slip materials and (e.g., to view landmarks, or handrails should be the bridge should include special features, wildlife, designed so that a seated suitable handrails and/or entertainment and sports person can clearly see guards. (See Figure 53) activities etc.), these areas below the rail. (See Section 1.3.3, should be accessible to • Where patios or terraces are Boardwalks, Section 1.3.16, persons using wheelchairs, 205 mm to 460 mm above Wilderness and Conservation scooters or walkers. grade, a cane detectable Areas and Section 1.6.6 (See Figure 52) stand up edge, 150 mm or
higher, should be provided. ACCESSIBLE VIEWING LOCATIONS OFF MAIN PATH HANDRAIL Alternatively, a planter box (SEE FIG. 7 & 8) or bench could be used as an aid to persons with visual limitations. • Where a number of patios or terraces are provided, some consideration of both wind and sun protection is desirable for seniors or other persons who prefer to sit in a protected location.
1.3.14 Trails and Footbridges Figure 52 POLICY Where pedestrian or bicycle trails are provided, trails should be laid out with accessible pedestrian paths and footbridges that are HANDRAIL suitable for persons using EXTENSION DETECTABLE CURB various mobility aids. (See Figure 51) • If trails include slopes greater than 1:20, alternate Figure 53
28 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.3 SPECIAL AREAS AND FEATURES EXTERIOR AREAS
• Where special viewing 1.3.17 Wilderness and • Where special lookout instruments (e.g., telescopes) Conservation Areas locations or wildlife viewing are provided, then such areas are included, ensure devices should include POLICY that clear signage is provided lowered mounting heights Wilderness areas open for nearby (e.g.: on the trail or suitable for use by children public enjoyment should path). or persons in wheelchairs include accessible parking • Where possible, provide a or scooters. areas, entrances, paths, trails, tactile map (e.g., map with a or footbridges that will raised outline) of all trails accommodate persons using 1.3.16 Waterfront Areas and features at the start of various mobility aids. the trail and periodically POLICY • Ensure that rest areas and/or along the trail to benefit Waterfront areas (e.g., areas lay-bys are provided with persons who have visual adjacent to lakes, ponds or suitable seating to limitations. (See Figure 55) streams) in public parks, accommodate seniors. recreation facilities or (See Figure 54) wilderness locations, should be laid out to accommodate persons using wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers, as well as persons with visual limitations.
• Ensure that accessible REST AREAS WITH SUITABLE SEATING parking areas, entrances, TO ACCOMMODATE SENIORS paths and/or lookout areas are suitable for persons with varying disabilities. • Provide suitable seating nearby. (See Sections 1.3.2, Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Spaces: Figure 54 Balconies and Terraces,
Section 1.3.11, Picnic Areas SIGN PANEL WITH BRAILLE and Section 1.4.1, Benches ON EDGE IN UPPER LEFT CORNER
and Seats) 1000 mm MIN. ACCESSIBLE ROUTE • Ensure that accessible parking is provided in a convenient and nearby 70º location. (See Sections 1.3.3, Boardwalks and Section 1.3.14, Trails and Footbridges) CONTRASTING 800 mm SURFACE TO MIN. IDENTIFY SIGN LOCATION
Figure 55
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 29 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES
POLICY 1.4.3 Drinking Fountains • Where drinking fountains are recessed (e.g., in an alcove), All amenities available to the • Where exterior public drinking the width of the knee space public should be readily fountains are provided, they should be at least 760 mm. accessible and useable by should be securely mounted, everyone, regardless of age and ensure clear knee space • The maximum height of or disability. below of 700 mm, to allow the spout should be 915 mm 1.4.1 Benches and Seats comfortable access by and controls should be easily persons using mobility aids. operable with one hand. • Exterior benches or seats (See Figure 57) should be located to one side of public walkways or paths PROVIDE AMPLE and be mounted on a firm BACKREST and level base, such as a concrete pad, brick pavers 360 - 460 mm etc. (See Figure 56) • Fixed benches should 450 mm include suitable back 150 mm supports and arms to allow for easy transfers, with 405 - 460 mm a seat height between 405 mm and 460 mm. SIDE VIEW
(See Figure 56) PROVIDE ARMREST FOR EASE OF INGRESS AND EGRESS 1015 mm • Space should be available beside the bench for at least one person using a wheelchair or scooter with a minimum clearance area of 1015 mm by 1220 mm. FRONT VIEW Figure 56 1.4.2 Bicycle Racks • Fixed bicycle racks should EQUIPMENT PERMITTED be located to one side of IN SHADED AREA walks, paths, or entrances so as not to impede the normal path of travel or snow clear- ing activities etc. (See also Section 1.5.5, Snow Melting 760 - 915 mm and Snow Removal) 700 mm MIN. MIN.
230 mm MIN.
200 mm 230 mm MIN. MIN. Figure 57
30 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES EXTERIOR AREAS
1.4.4 Mail Boxes • Where telephone enclosures • Telephones should be or recesses are provided, mounted to one side of the • Exterior mail boxes, they should be 760 mm wide path of travel, clear of door collection boxes, or route with knee space below the swings or other obstacles, boxes (See Figure 58) should phone shelf or equipment at with enough open space for be mounted to one side of least 685 mm clear. access by persons using the sidewalk, path, or mobility aids. entrance to allow free, uninterrupted access along the path of travel and/or to
entrance doors. CANADA POSTES (See Section 1.3.5, POST CANADA Community Mail Boxes)
1.4.5 Public Showers • Where public showers are provided in exterior settings (e.g., as part of a campground, exterior swimming pool or other recreational facility), they should be designed to be accessible to persons using Figure 58 various mobility aids. • Floors of showers should be of firm and solid material
laid to drain, with no lip, SHELF SPACE FOR TDD SHELF SPACE threshold, or step at entry, FOR TDD greater than 13 mm high.
1.4.6 Public Telephones • Where public telephones are 250 mm provided in exterior settings, MIN. at least one telephone should 250 mm be designed to be wheelchair MIN. 685 mm accessible. KNEE CLEARANCE 350 mm 1200 mm • No controls or coin slots MIN. HIGHEST OPERABLE PART 480 mm should be mounted higher MAX. than 1200 mm. (See Figure 59) CLEAR SPACE 1220 mm MIN. 760 mm HEIGHT OF TELEPHONE AND SHELF SPACE FOR TDD
Figure 59
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 31 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES
• Lighting level at public telephones should be at least 100 lux. (10 ft. candles).
REVERSED "L" SHAPED • Accessible public telephones TYPE GRAB BAR should be clearly identified by the "International Symbol of Accessibility". (See Section 1.5.4, Signage and Way-finding) 200 - 300 mm D-TYPE • Where more than one DOOR PULL telephone is provided, a telephone should be available that is capable of accommodating persons who 460 - 480 mm OPERABLE are deaf, deafened, or hard of LATCH hearing (e.g., with an acoustic coupler, volume 810 mm control etc.), and MIN. be clearly identified with the "International Symbol" Figure 60 for persons who are deaf, deafened, or hard of
hearing. (See Figure 59) 760 mm MIN. 460 mm • Where several public MIN. telephones are located 1500 mm side by side, a TTY MIN. device (Text Telephone) 1200 mm should be provided for MIN. 485 mm CLEAR persons who are deaf, MAX. SPACE
deafened or hard of CLEAR SPACE 600 mm 1400 mm MIN. 1525 mm hearing. MIN. MIN. 1525 mm 1220 mm MIN. MIN.
CLEAR SPACE
300 mm MIN.
1500 mm MIN.
460 – 480 mm
1675 mm RECOMMENDED Figure 61 Figure 61
32 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES EXTERIOR AREAS
1.4.7 Public Washrooms • The preferred faucet 1.4.8 Street Furniture and on basins are of the Vending Machines Wherever possible a public, automatic type. unisex/family washroom POLICY should be provided in every • (See also Part 2: Section building. Although some public 2.3.11, Public Washrooms, • All street furniture, including washrooms may not be occupied and Section 2.3.14, light standards, signs, during the entire year, the Washroom Accessories) planters, mail boxes and washrooms should be accessible vending machines, should be and should be designed in mounted to one side of the accordance with requirements normal path of travel so of the Ontario Building Code, as not to inhibit free Section 3.8. movement of persons who have visual limitations, or • Minimum dimensions of who use mobility aids. accessible stalls should be 1500 mm minimum by a recommended width of 1675 305 mm 305 mm 305 mm mm for use by persons with 1525 mm mobility aids or others 610 mm requiring 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 2030 mm having a minimum of STREETLINE 810 mm clear width, and clear space of 1220 mm in front of washroom doors to ensure access. Provide an
860 mm wide door to the CONCRETE accessible unisex washroom. SIDEWALK (See Figures 60 and 61) • Install toilets with seats recommended to be no lower than 430 mm and no higher than 460 mm. • A minimum of one accessible stall for every 25 stalls is recommended where public washrooms are provided. • The preferred side grab bar is the reversed “L” shaped Figure 62 type.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 33 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.4 OUTDOOR AMENITIES
• Wherever possible, street • Waste receptacles or holders • Where lids are provided on furniture such as lamps, containing waste bins should waste receptacles, they mailboxes, vending be clearly identified by should be easy to operate equipment, etc., should be suitable signs and/or colours. with one hand and have positioned securely on a openings mounted no higher continuous separate amenity than 1065 mm from grade. strip (beside sidewalks), or located to one side of accessible entrances. WASTE RECEPTACLES, OF ALL TYPES, SHOULD BE FIRMLY MOUNTED AND (See also Section 1.4.9, HAVE A SELF-CLOSING LID, WHICH IS EASY TO OPEN WITH ONE HAND Waste Receptacles and Recycling Bins) • Amenity strips should be a minimum of 610 mm wide, and be of a different paving 1065 mm material to the normal paths of travel. (See Figure 62)
1.4.9 Waste Receptacles and Recycling Bins Figure 63 POLICY Waste receptacles and recycling bins should be accessible to persons using various mobility aids and be permanently located to one side of any path or walkway so as not to encroach on walkway width. • In busy locations, waste receptacles should be securely mounted and be large enough to contain the anticipated amount of waste so that overflows do not cause a tripping hazard. (See Figure 63) • Waste receptacles in open areas such as parks, wilderness, beach or picnic areas should be securely mounted on firm level pads.
34 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS EXTERIOR AREAS
POLICY: • Two different audible • Tactile features should be pedestrian signals, provided as an aid to persons • People with varying identifying when it is who have both hearing and disabilities need assurance safe to cross either direction, vision limitations. and support in using exterior (as indicated by a separate (ie. A tactile or vibro-tactile routes and facilities. tone) are required for feature on pushbuttons.) Persons with limited persons with visual vision or hearing who disabilities. • In locations frequently used are dependent upon by seniors or persons with supplementary cues or • Where extended time is disabilities, crossing timing information in the required to cross, (e.g., by should be provided to permit environment need to be seniors and persons with pedestrians, or wheelchair able to find their way safely disabilities), a clearly users to cross safely. from one location to another. marked pedestrian button Similarly, persons with should be available and limited mobility, who use mounted on a pole beside the canes, walkers, wheelchairs curb cut, at a maximum or scooters need a clear, safe, height of 1065 mm. and accessible route at all times of the year. 1.5.1 Crosswalk/Pedestrian PEDESTRIAN HEAD STANDARD HEAD HIGHWAY HEAD Signals TRAFFIC SIGNAL TRAFFIC SIGNAL • Signals at pedestrian crosswalks should be designed generally in RED
accordance with RED requirements of the Highway Traffic Act and the Ontario Traffic Manual Book AMBER 12 – Traffic Signals. (See Figure 64) AMBER • Both audible and flashing crossing signals should be GREEN provided as an aid to GREEN persons who have hearing or visual limitations. • Audible pedestrian signals should be loud enough to be heard clearly above the Figure 64 ambient noise (i.e.: at least 15 decibels louder than ambient noise).
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 35 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS
1.5.2 Lighting for Exterior reasonable colour • Overhead light fixtures Areas not including roads spectrum, and minimize should be mounted on cast shadows for persons standards that ensure clear • Exterior lighting should with low vision. headroom of 2030 mm be designed generally in is available, below fixtures accordance with I.E.S.N.A. • Supplementary lighting or supports, as an aid to (Illuminating Engineering should be provided to persons with visual Society of North America) highlight all key way-finding limitations. standards, in all public signage. thoroughfares and along all • Lighting of landscape on • Lighting standards or posts special site features should pedestrian routes to ensure should be mounted to one safe access for persons with be designed and installed to side of pedestrian walkways minimize direct glare to disabilities at sidewalks, bus so as not to inhibit free stops, or parking areas both pedestrians and movement of persons using building users. leading to public facilities or mobility aids. amenities. (See Figures 65 and 66) Lighting levels of • Low-level lighting standards 100 lux. (10 ft. candles) should be tall enough to measured at the ground of clear normal snow all accessible pedestrian accumulation heights. entrances are recommended as an aid to persons with visual disabilities. • At frequently used pedestrian routes (including paths,
stairs, and ramps) 2100 mm recommended lighting levels should be 30 lux. (3 ft. candles). • In accessible parking MAINTAIN HEIGHT, LIGHT CUT-OF ANGLE AND FIXTURE SPACING areas, lighting levels are TO ALLOW VISIBILITY OF PATHWAY AND USERS AND EVEN recommended to be a LIGHT DISTRIBUTION AT THE WALKING SURFACE. minimum of 50 lux (5 ft. Figure 65 candles) at accessible parking spaces and along accessible routes from areas of parking to accessible entrances. • Lighting sources should be selected and located at, or beside steps and stairs, to ensure clear definition of treads, risers, and nosings. LIGHTS BELOW 1525 mm ILLUMINATE SURFACE ONLY • All lighting over pedestrian AND MUST NOT GLARE INTO PEOPLE'S EYES. routes should be evenly POSTS MUST BE MOUNTED HIGH ENOUGH TO CLEAR SNOW ACCUMULATION. distributed, provide a Figure 66
36 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS EXTERIOR AREAS
• This does not include • Where large outdoor • Signage generally should be lighting for roads and concerts are regularly in bold ‘sans-serif’ lettering expressways. The performed (e.g. in the (e.g., Helvetica) on a highly Transportation Division of summer months), every contrasting background. Works & Emergency attempt should be made to • Building addresses or Services Department is include a FM loop (or other identifying signage at street currently developing a suitable systems), for level, whether it is mounted Lighting Master Plan which persons who are hearing in landscaped areas or on will incorporate street impaired. (See Figure 67) posts, should be high enough lighting. It is anticipated to be clearly visible even that this Master Plan will with snow piled nearby. be completed by the end 1.5.4 Signage and of 2004. Way-Finding • Pedestrian, vehicular, and • A comprehensive exterior emergency routes should all signage and way-finding be clearly identified. 1.5.3 Public Address system is required at every • One-way routes should be Systems major site or facility, to clearly marked – both with POLICY assist visitors with varying paving markings and by disabilities to locate post-mounted signs. Where public address appropriate parking and • The "International Symbol of systems are provided (e.g., at accessible entrances. exterior recreation and/or Accessibility" should be used entertainment facilities) every • The street address and/or to identify special amenities, attempt should be made to building/facility name should such as accessible parking, select and install that minimize be clearly visible from the accessible entrances, or distortion and provide a full street or public laneway. accessible washrooms. spectrum of sound. • Lettering size should be Loudspeakers should be legible at typical viewing located so as to cover the distances (e.g., from the desired area adequately road, approach route, parking without feedback and they area, etc.). should be mounted on posts to ensure that the output close MICROPHONE, CD, TAPE, TELEVISION, DVD, FILM, ETC. to speakers is at acceptable levels for nearby audience members. NORMAL SOUND SYSTEM • Where significant information (e.g. emergency SPEAKERS information) is to be announced, a clear warning AMPLIFIER signal should be provided before the announcement, to alert persons who are hard of hearing.
FM BROADCAST SYSTEM FM TRANSMITTER FM RECEIVER
Figure 67
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 37 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS
1.5.5 Snow-melting and 1.5.6 Traffic Signals • Traffic light timing at Snow Removal specific sites should be POLICY adjustable to suit not only POLICY The majority of elderly the volume of vehicular Where accessible entrances, persons, as well as persons traffic, but also the volume ramps, or steps are exposed with various disabilities, need of pedestrian traffic. to prevailing winds and/or more time to make a safe • Timing of lights for snow-accumulation, icing, etc., crossing at traffic lights than frequently used pedestrian every attempt should be made the average adult. Persons who crossings should be to ensure that the snow, ice or are blind, as well as those with adjustable so that the water is quickly removed. (See low vision, may also need walking speed of persons also Sections 1.1.8, Pedestrian assurance that they are with disabilities, or seniors, Routes and Section 1.1.10, crossing at the right time and can be accommodated safely. Stairs and Steps) in the right direction. As a result, both timing of traffic • Sufficient catch basins and lights, as well as the provision run-offs should be provided of audible and visual cues as to ensure rapid removal of to when lights change, are water from melting snow or essential. (See also Section ice from all pedestrian 1.1.2, Crosswalks) routes. (See Figure 68) • At entrance canopies or at accessible entrances, consider the use of radiant heating to automatically clear ice and snow, where timely maintenance and snow clearing may be problematic. RED RED RED • Snow removal strategies and designated snow accumulation areas should be arranged so that no AMBER AMBER AMBER accessible pedestrian routes are inhibited by snow.
GREEN
Figure 68
38 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.5 OUTDOOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS EXTERIOR AREAS
• Audible pedestrian signals • No obstacles, poles, bins, indicating when it is safe signs etc., should be located to walk should operate on the level approach area or consistently with visible within 990 mm of the normal pedestrian signals. The pedestrian approach to the sound of signals should be call button location. capable of being heard above (See Figure 69) ambient traffic noise. Signal sounds should differentiate directional crossings (e.g.,
east to west signal should EXTEND PEDESTRIAN CROSSING, TRAFFIC SIGNAL HEAD AUDITORY differ from north to south DEFINED,AND SIGNALS TIMED FOR PEDESTRIAN THE SLOWER WALKERS TO INCREASE SIGNAL signals). THE SAFETY OF THE STREET. • Where high use or
specialized community WALK-THROUGH ISLAND facilities (e.g., Senior’s FOR WIDE STREETS Centres) are served by BUTTON OF pedestrian crossings, CONTRASTING COLOUR 1220 mm crossing signals should be MIN. capable of being activated by AT GRADE pedestrians waiting to cross. VISUAL AND TEXTURAL MARKING • Tactile features should be (SEE SECTION 1.1.2 CROSSWALKS) 1065 mm provided as an aid to persons EXTENDED CROSSING who have both hearing and (BEST) vision limitations. (ie. A tactile or vibro-tactile RAMP WITH UNIQUE PAVING feature on a pushbutton.) (RAMP MAY BE OFFSET) • Buttons for pedestrian initiated calls should be Figure 69 Figure 69 located in a constant location, on posts set in level surfaces that are identified by 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 and profile. Push button should provide a locator tone.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 39 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.6 OTHER
POLICY All finishes should be matte between walls and floors), as in order to minimize glare. an aid to orientation. For persons who are dependent on visual and tactile • Colour contrast should also • Colour may also be used to cues (e.g. colour and texture), be used to define edges or provide constant information such information should be boundaries of objects (e.g., (e.g., the location of exit included in the design of the stair nosings, the head and doors, for example, by built environment for safe foot of an escalator or ramps, painting all exit doors in the navigation. or colour differentiated same distinctive colour). handrails). In high use Applied colour may also be spaces, colour or tone contrast an added advantage (e.g., to 1.6.1 Colour and Texture should also be used to define indicate the termination of POLICY the boundaries of a room handrails in large open (e.g., at the junction areas). In developing exterior colour schemes, every attempt should be made to ensure that both HIGH CONTRAST BETWEEN FIGURE AND BACKGROUND WILL INCREASE READABILITY OF SIGNS colour intensity and contrast with adjacent colours are utilized (e.g., to define boundaries of objects or to distinguish lettering from their 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 easily recognizable than those in the cool end of the spectrum. Figure 70 • Signage should generally be designed using highly visible
and contrasting colours (e.g., CERAMIC MOSAIC JOINTS PROVIDE white or yellow on a black, GOOD FRICTION FOR WHEELCHAIRS charcoal, or other dark back- (TILE AREA MUST BE LEVEL, AVOID ground such as brown, dark WIDE OR DEEP JOINTS) blue, dark green, or purple). Black lettering on white or yellow matte surfaces is also 13 mm AVOID LEVEL CHANGE MORE THAN 13mm MAX. acceptable. Unacceptable AVOID LEVEL CHANGES OF ANY HEIGHT background colours are: (EVEN IF RAMPED) WHEN FLOOR IS SLIPPERY
light grey or pastels. 13 mm MAX. (See Figure 70) AVOID GRILLES IN FLOOR WHEREVER POSSIBLE; WHERE USED, MAXIMUM • Colour/Tone contrast of OPENING IS 13mm IN ANY DIRECTION approximately 70% light ONE DIRECTION GRATES SHOULD HAVE BARS PERPENDICULAR TO DIRECTION reflectance should be OF TRAVEL provided on signage.
Figure 71
40 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.6 OTHER EXTERIOR AREAS
• Textured surfaces are • Overhead framing or • At all construction sites recommended to provide an bracing should ensure clear and/or maintenance indication to persons with headroom of at least 1980 locations, wherever a clear visual limitations that a mm above the sidewalk but pedestrian route of 1100 mm potential hazard is nearby. 2030 mm is recommended. is not achievable via the Typical hazards are; level normal route, alternative safe changes at ramps and stairs. • Cane detectable temporary barriers should be provided and level pedestrian routes In such cases, a textured should be provided with paving strip, at least one around all short-term repair sites (e.g. sidewalk repairs, suitable protection from pace deep - 915 mm, is vehicular traffic. recommended at the head of manhole access covers etc.), stairs or ramps, or wherever as an aid to persons who walking hazards may exist. have visual limitations. (See Figure 71) (See Figure 73) • All textured surfaces used as warning devices should be cane-detectable and clearly CONSTRUCTION SITE PROTECTION differentiated from surrounding paving surfaces. Throughout any one site, the same texture should be used to denote hazards. Suitable textures include: saw-cut concrete with regular grooves positioned no more than 50 mm apart, with the 1980 mm grooves being perpendicular 2030 mm to the path of travel. RECOMMENDED
1.6.2 Construction Site Protection
• Construction sites should THIS MODIFICATION TO THE BARRIER ALLOWS IT TO BE DETECTED have suitable boundary BY THE LONG CANE AND THUS PREVENTS POSSIBLE CONTACT AT HEAD LEVEL BY THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED PERSON. protection to minimize hazards to persons with Figure 72 visual limitations and to maintain easy access for persons using various mobility aids. (See Figure 72) • Construction hoardings should be firmly constructed with supports and bracing which permits free
movement by pedestrians THIS BARRIER SERVES THE SAME PURPOSE AS THE SAW HORSE or persons using various BUT IS CANE DETECTABLE FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED TRAVELLERS mobility aids. Figure 73
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 41 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.6 OTHER
• Where hoardings with public viewing ports are provided, at least one viewing port should be mounted at no more than 1220 mm on center, for use by 3050 mm 3050 mm persons using mobility aids. BOULEVARD BOULEVARD
300 mm300 mm 610 mm 205 mm 2440 mm 1.6.3 Freestanding Objects 1220 mm 1015 mm POLICY Freestanding objects should be located to one side of normal pedestrian routes without STREET/ TREE AREA PROPERTY limiting the width of the LINE normal route or causing a hazard to persons with visual limitations. • Permanent objects such as STREET bollards, bicycle racks, TOOLED JOINT BICYCLE RACKS benches, bus shelters, (TYPICAL) newspaper vending boxes, mail boxes, hydrants, light
standards etc., should all GARBAGE be placed to one side of CONTAINER designated pedestrian routes, preferably in well designed amenity strips or in planned locations or recesses that are close to active areas of use. TREE AREA (See also Section 1.4, Outdoor Amenities and Figure 74) Figure 74 •Temporary objects such as queuing lines, sales booths, loose garbage receptacles, etc., should be located to one side of the normal pedestrian route. (See Figure 75) • Guy wires, and other braces or supports for trees, posts etc., should be located so they do not constitute a hazard for persons with visual limitations. 915 mm MIN. Figure 75
42 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.6 OTHER EXTERIOR AREAS
1.6.4 Garbage Handling • Where wall-mounted or • Where turnstiles or other recessed waste receptacles ticketing devices are not POLICY are used, bin liners should be accessible, a nearby gate or Waste receptacles should easy to remove. opening accessible to ideally be mounted in selected persons using mobility aids • Vehicular access routes to is required. locations and to one side of garbage containers for pedestrian routes, so as not to maintenance purposes constitute a hazard for persons should not cross normal 1.6.6 Landscape Materials with visual limitations. pedestrian routes. (See also Section 1.4.9, and Planting Waste Receptacles POLICY and Recycling Bins) 1.6.5 Gates and Openings • Waste receptacles, containers, Landscape materials, trees, • Where gates or openings are or boxes, (including recycling shrubs, and plants should be provided through boxes), should be large selected and located with a fences/screens to public use enough to contain the wide variety of disabled users areas beyond, such openings anticipated quantity of waste in mind. For instance, plants should be accessible and be in any one location. and shrubs with a variety of a minimum recommended fragrances can provide an • All waste receptacles (except 915 mm wide to allow interesting diversion for large industrial containers) free-passage of persons persons with visual limitations, should be accessible to using mobility aids. Gate whereas plants with thorns or persons using mobility aids. hardware should be suitable heavy berries may constitute a • Waste receptacles in for autonomous use and walking hazard and should landscaped areas, recreation, closing devices should therefore be avoided in active and picnic areas, should be not be spring-loaded. pedestrian locations. designed to be unobtrusive, but be clearly identified by suitable colours or signage, as an aid to persons who have visual limitations. • The paving around waste receptacles should be level, firm, free draining and easy to wash down.
• Where covered waste recep- 1980 mm MIN. tacles are used, the covers 2030 mm should be useable with one RECOMMENDED hand. • Temporary construction scows or large mobile industrial containers should be located away from normal pedestrian routes. Figure 76
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 43 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.6 OTHER
• Consider providing some however, where they are openings no greater than planter beds at 460 mm high inevitable, then the bars of 13 mm. (See Figures 71, 77, above grade to allow easy the grating or grill should be 78 & 79) access by seniors and located at right angles to the persons using mobility aids. normal path of travel, with • All steps should be of non-slip materials with • Provide defined planting bed highly contrasted nosings. edges adjacent to busy pedestrian walks, a minimum of 100 mm high, as an aid to persons with visual limitations. • Provide defined edges at trail boundaries wherever the adjacent grade is variable. • Trim overhanging branches of trees or shrubs, located FRONT GUIDE WHEEL OF WHEELCHAIR over walkways or paths, to ensure that the headroom over the walking space is a SURFACE OF WALKWAY minimum of 1980 mm 13 mm (2030 mm recommended) MAX. and the normal walking area is clear of branches, thorns etc. (See Figure 76) 6 mm PAVER MAX.
1.6.7 Materials and Finishes Figure 77 POLICY Suitable paving surfaces for walkways include macadam, concrete, interlocking brick or patio stones, providing the joints are no greater than 6 mm wide and level variations are no more than 6 mm high. FRONT GUIDE WHEEL This will minimize tripping OF WHEELCHAIR hazards and uncomfortable conditions for users of mobility 13 mm aids. MAX. • All paving should be laid to drain easily. • Gratings or grills should
generally be located to one PAVER CONCRETE COLLAR AND FRAME side of pedestrian walkways, GRATING Figure 78
44 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.6 OTHER EXTERIOR AREAS
• All ramp surfaces should be • Where paths are not cleared • All gates, closers, automatic firm and non-slip (e.g.: regularly, suitable signage door operators, porch lifts, broom finish on concrete should be utilized. automatic ticket machines or wood decking laid • All garbage containers or other essential equipment perpendicular to path of should be emptied regularly should be inspected and well travel). to avoid the accumulation of maintained on a regular • Handrails and guardrails extraneous garbage around schedule. should be continuous, the containers. smooth and well maintained. • All light bulbs along 1.6.9 Obstacle Removal (See also Section 1.1.5, pedestrian routes should be Guards and Handrails) Regular and systematic checks replaced on a regular should be undertaken to • Walls adjacent to ramps schedule, with lamps (of the ensure that no obstacles have or stairs should be in same wattage) for which been located in pedestrian non-abrasive finishes. they were designed. routes (e.g., newspaper • Smooth walking surfaces vending machines and bicycle are preferred. Where racks or garbage containers). interlocking pavers are used, (See Figure 80) they should be laid on a firm, well-compacted backing (e.g., concrete base).
915 mm MIN. 1.6.8 Maintenance 150 mm MIN. WIDE TEXTURED TEXTURE STRIP POLICY SURFACE All active pedestrian routes should be well maintained to MOVABLE permit safe circulation by FURNITURE STRIP seniors, persons who have visual limitations and persons using various mobility aids. Figure 79 • All key pedestrian routes to accessible entrances and/or exits should be kept free of ice and snow in winter months. • Snow clearing strategies should be developed so that accumulated snow poses no hazard to persons with visual limitations or who use various mobility aids. (See also Section 1.5.5, Snow Melting and Snow Removal and Section 1.6.11 Snow 915 mm Accumulation and Removal) MIN. Figure 80
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 45 PART 1: EXTERIOR AREAS 1.6 OTHER
1.6.10 Safety and Security • Consider the use of personal • Consider the inclusion of a alarm devices for those who two-way call system or other POLICY need assistance, or provide a suitable emergency call Today, in urban, suburban and clearly visible and accessible system linked to a central rural sites, seniors and persons two-way voice communication location (e.g., office or with disabilities are conscious system (e.g., in locations switchboard) from any of their own vulnerability and where a number of persons accessible unisex washrooms therefore tend to seek more with disabilities or seniors in larger public buildings reassurance and inherent are likely to be congregated such as hospitals, schools security than in the past. permanently or for special or recreation facilities, for events). A central persons who may require • Ensure that adequate lighting monitoring location to assistance. is provided over public receive such calls will also walkways, steps and ramps be required. • Develop a comprehensive as well as where public ‘Emergency Plan,’ which parking is provided. addresses the needs of (See Figure 81) persons with varying disabilities, as well as frail • Pedestrian walkways should seniors, for exiting large be designed to provide clear outdoor recreational facilities lines of sight to ensure or other places where personal safety wherever crowd-control is likely to be possible. an issue. • Provide a call bell or a two-way communication device at the main accessible entrance. • Provide a call bell or two-way communication device in enclosed public parking areas where PARKING BUILDING 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 requiring emergency assistance.
SECURITY ACCENT LIGHTING AT ENTIRES, LIGHTING DROP-OFF, AND PATIOS ZONE
ACCENT LIGHTING AT KEY DECISION-MAKING POINTS FACILITATES WAYFINDING AS WELL AS SAFETY
Figure 81
46 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 1: 1.6 OTHER EXTERIOR AREAS
1.6.11 Snow Accumulation • Snow accumulating at • Provide designated areas for and Removal entrances, on essential ramps snow piling from all major or stairs, or other primary routes and public parking POLICY paths of travel, should be areas away from pedestrian Snow, ice accumulation and/or removed completely after routes, (See Figure 82) and consider the use of drifting snow is a major each snowfall. problem at entrances and in radiant heating in all all exterior pedestrian routes frequently used entrance during the winter months, areas and exterior ramps. especially for persons using mobility aids or persons with visual limitations. • Regularly used pedestrian routes from the site boundary to the main entrance or other accessible entrances should be kept clear of snow and ice during the winter months.
SNOW CLEARING FROM ACCESSIBLE PARKING SPACES AND THE ACCESSIBLE ROUTE IS ESSENTIAL
Figure 82
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 47
PART 2: INDOOR AREAS
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES
PART 2: 2.1 ENTRANCES INDOOR AREAS
PRINCIPLE All interior routes from accessible entrances to accessible exits should be safe and easy to use by persons with varying disabilities, including persons requiring 2750 mm mobility aids, and persons with MIN. vision or cognitive 3555 mm limitations. Such routes RECOMMENDED should be clearly identified and logical in layout. 2.1.1 Canopies and Weather Protection • All main entrances and other accessible entrances should be protected by a suitable canopy or overhang. Figure 84 • Where canopies project over passenger boarding zones, provide a minimum headroom clearance of 2750 mm, however 3555 mm is recommended to accommodate special transit vehicles, or 2895 mm is recommended to accommodate adapted vans used by persons with disabilities. (See Figure 84) • Where balconies are provided, (e.g., as part of a residential or hospitality environment), they should be designed to permit optimum use throughout the year by seniors and persons with disabilities and include adequate protection from wind, rain and sun. (See also Part 1, Section 1.3.2, Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Spaces, Balconies and Terraces)
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 51 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.1 ENTRANCES
2.1.2 Doors and Doorways A minimum 305 mm • In buildings where there is a clearance should be provided significant amount of glazing • Main entrance doors and between the guard and the at grade, it is recommended other accessible entrance and opened door. that door frames be clearly exit doors should be a (See Figure 85) colour differentiated to aid in minimum of 915 mm wide locating the entrance. to allow safe passage of • Consider the use of (See Figure 86) persons who use mobility automatic sliding glass doors aids. at busy entrances that are not designated exits. • One accessible entrance is required for buildings having 1 to 3 entrances and 2 accessible entrances for 1220 mm buildings having more than 3 to 5 entrances. No "less than 50 percent accessible entrances are required for buildings having more than 5 entrances. User specific 305 mm situations would be evaluated in a case by 900 mm case basis. 610 mm • Where pairs of doors are MAX. utilized, at least one leaf should provide a clear opening of 810 mm wide. 305 mm • Accessible entrance doors MIN. and related vestibule doors should be automatic or have power-assisted door openers. Figure 85 • Where automatic doors open towards users with 305 mm disabilities, the swing pattern of such doors should be defined 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 900 mm 305 mm beyond the door 400 mm swing, should be provided as an aid to persons with visual limitations. Figure 86
52 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.1 ENTRANCES INDOOR AREAS
2.1.3 Door Hardware, Locks • Door locks should be • Where out-swinging doors and Closers mounted between 760 mm must be closed to preserve and 1065 mm high. privacy (e.g. on washroom • Automatic door openers are doors), an additional pull recommended wherever • Select sliding door hardware handle, mounted horizontally possible. that is easy to grasp and use and close to the hinge side of and does not reduce the the door, is recommended. • Push buttons or card access effective clear opening width controls used to open doors below 810 mm. should be located away from (See Figures 87, 88 and the door swing and they Section 2.1.7 Thresholds) should be mounted on walls or posts, at a height between 1000 mm and 1100 mm measured to the centre of the control. • Preferred push button 150 mm diameter is recommended. • Doors in a series (e.g., in a vestibule) should be a minimum of 2135 mm apart Figure 87 and/or the clear floor area between door swings should be no less than 1200 mm. • Door hardware, including pulls and push plates, should be generally mounted between 915 mm and 1065 mm from grade. • All door opening hardware on entrance, vestibule, and room doors should be easy to grasp and use (e.g., of the lever handled type). (See Figure 87) Figure 88 • Hardware for closet doors, drawer pulls etc., should be of the simple ‘D’ type (i.e., a continuous and easy to grasp handle), 75 mm – 100 mm long. (See Figure 88)
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 53 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.1 ENTRANCES
2.1.4 Entrances • Where accessible entrances • In public buildings, an include security locks or accessible public telephone • Accessible entrances provide other locking devices, a should be available near the direct access to persons nearby call bell (or accessible entrance to using wheelchairs or scooters information telephone) provide seniors and persons and are also frequently used should be available for with varying disabilities as waiting areas for persons persons requiring with suitable telephone requiring assistance (e.g., information or assistance. access (e.g., calling for a waiting for a ride from taxi or a ride). "special transit, taxis, family members, attendants or others). (See Figure 89) • There should be enough waiting space inside the main accessible entrance, either in the vestibule or adjacent lobby, for at least two persons using wheelchairs. Such waiting areas should provide a clear ACCESSIBLE ENTRANCE view of the entrance and PROVIDES DIRECT ACCESS TO INTERIOR, AND VESTIBULE CAN arrival area for taxis, buses BE USED AS A WAITING AREA. or private vehicles. • Accessible entrances should provide basic protection from the weather and include doors and vestibules that are
useable autonomously by PASSENGER DROP-OFF persons with varying LOADING ZONE disabilities. Figure 89
54 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.1 ENTRANCES INDOOR AREAS
2.1.5 Glazed Screens and • Where etched or patterned • Partially glazed doors should Sidelights glass is used, decals or have glazed panels that a stripe of a highly extend low enough to allow • Fully glazed sidelights at contrasting colour, are persons using mobility aids exterior entrances or in still recommended. to see what is on the far side interior vestibules, as well of the door (i.e., maximum as fully glazed screens height from grade 900 mm elsewhere, should be to lower edge of glazing). clearly identifiable so as (See Figure 90) not to constitute a hazard for persons with visual limitations.
• A row of bright decals or a 250 mm 250 mm continuous opaque stripe, a MAX. MAX. minimum of 50 mm wide and of highly contrasting colour, should be mounted at eye level, between 1350 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor. • Decals should be located at a maximum of 150 mm on 900 mm center and can be either MAX. 50 mm square or round and/or of a special design (e.g., a company logo), 75 mm providing the solid portion MIN. of the logo is sufficiently 250 mm bold for easy identification MAX. by persons with visual limitations.
50 mm MIN.
OPAQUE STRIP OR DECALS
1350 mm 1500 mm MIN. MAX. 1500 mm MAX.
Figure 90
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 55 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.1 ENTRANCES
2.1.6 Mats and Mat 2.1.7 Thresholds • Thresholds at interior Sinkages doorways should be beveled • Thresholds required to and not exceed 13 mm in • Mats at entrances and in accommodate floor level or height. (See Figure 92) vestibules should be level finish changes to exterior with the floor and/or located areas (e.g., terraces and in mat sinkages, so as not to balconies), should be gently create a tripping hazard for beveled and not exceed persons who have visual 13 mm in height. limitations or a hindrance to persons using mobility aids. AVOID MATS AND/OR RUGS THICKER THAN 13mm, • Where occasional mats (e.g., OR WHICH ARE RECESSED MORE THAN 13mm runners provided during bad weather) are used, they should be level with the floor surface and/or have gently 13 mm beveled edges so as MAX. not to create a tripping hazard. (See Figure 91) 13 mm MAX. • Where runners are used to define preferred walking routes to information Figure 91 counters, elevators etc., such as in main entrance and lobby areas, they should lead directly to the desired objective with no furniture or obstacles intruding into the required route. Runners should be as continuous DOOR as possible and colour/tone differentiated from the adjacent floor colour.
ALL INTERIOR THRESHOLDS, INCLUDING THOSE WITH DIFFERENT FLOORING MATERIALS ON EITHER SIDE, SHOULD NOT EXCEED 13mm IN HEIGHT, TO ALLOW EASY WHEELCHAIR MOVEMENT.
13 mm MAX.
Figure 92
56 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.1 ENTRANCES INDOOR AREAS
2.1.8 Vestibules 2.1.9 Waiting Areas • Waiting areas with fixed seating should include • See Section 2.1.2, Doors and • For persons requiring enough clear space for a Doorways for vestibules at information services or minimum of two persons accessible entrances. assistance, waiting areas using wheelchairs or with loose furniture scooters. • Interior vestibules to should be large enough to washrooms or other special accommodate at least two areas should be fully persons using wheelchairs or accessible to persons using scooters, in addition to other mobility aids. All vestibules, members of the public. corridors, or aisle widths should be a minimum of 1100 mm wide to allow persons using mobility aids to turn at right angles through door openings. • Vestibule depths should provide at least 1200 mm 1500 mm floor space, clear of door swings and/or other obstacles, for manoeuvring of mobility aids. 600 mm • Where interior doors swing
towards the person using a 300 mm wheelchair, at least 600 mm 1200 mm clear space should be 1200 mm available at the jamb, on the opening edge of the door, to allow persons using mobility aids easy access to the door. (See Figure 93 and Section 1200 mm 1200 mm 2.1.2, Doors and Doorways) • Where doors swing away from the person using a mobility aid, at least 300 mm clear space should be available adjacent to the jamb on the opening edge of Figure 93 the door (See Figure 93), for ease of use by persons using mobility aids.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 57 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES
POLICY 2.2.1 Aisles and Passages pass each other easily. 1200 mm width is required Persons who have mobility • In high use public areas, to allow one person using limitations require all public aisles and passageways, a a wheelchair and one interior circulation routes, minimum of 1675 mm wide ambulatory person to pass. whether horizontal or vertical, is recommended to allow (See Figure 94) to be wide enough to two persons using accommodate various mobility wheelchairs or scooters to aids. Persons who have visual limitations need safe routes throughout buildings, with no unexpected level changes or obstructions that are potentially hazardous to them. Seniors and others with limited strength and endurance may require 1200 mm handrail support and/or MIN. resting places in long corridors or paths of travel.
Figure 94
1200 mm 1500 mm MIN.
760 mm MIN.
WHEEL CHAIR DIMENSIONS Figure 95 Figure 96
58 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES INDOOR AREAS
• In low use areas and offices • Hallways within accessible • Wherever extended length etc., clear aisle space and residential or overnight corridors are provided, passageways between walls, suites, as well as aisles in consideration should be glazed screens, furniture public areas and workspaces given to the inclusion of a and/or other major etc., should be a minimum of suitable and colour obstacles should be a 1065 mm wide. contrasted handrail, minimum of 1100 mm on at least one side of to accommodate users of • Additional space should be the corridor, as an aid to mobility aids. available where persons seniors and persons with using mobility aids must limited mobility. • Wherever aisles that are manoeuvre around obstacles 1100 mm wide are extensive in corridors or hallways. in length or terminate in a (See Figure 99) dead end, a turning space of at least 1600 mm by
1600 mm should be available TYPICAL SCOOTER D at 30 m intervals and recommended at dead end locations. 660 mm
2.2.2 Corridors 1345 mm and Hallways • It is recommended that TYPICAL SCOOTER DIMENSIONS high use accessible public Figure 97 Figure 98 corridors and paths of travel should be a minimum of 1100 mm wide, with turning spaces at least 1600 mm in diameter, every 20 m, to permit the free movement of 1100 mm persons using mobility aids. (See Figures 95, 96, 97 & 98) • Corridors in all institutional facilities such as hospitals,
nursing homes and homes OBSTACLE for the aged, should comply with Ministry of Health guidelines.
• Corridors serving residential 1100 mm 1200 mm 1100 mm suites should be a minimum OR LESS of 1100 mm wide. Turning Figure 99 locations should not be greater than 30 m apart and are recommended at ends of corridors. (See Figure 99)
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 59 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES
• In extended length • Exterior doors, which • Elevators and platform lifts corridors of 40 m or more, include panic hardware, should comply with the most consideration should be should be capable of being recent CAN/CSA B355 given to the provision opened with a force Standards "Lifts for Persons of a bench or other seating, no greater than 38 Newtons. with Physical Disabilities". located at intermediate points along the corridor for seniors • Passenger elevating devices and others with limited 2.2.4 Elevators and should comply with the most mobility. Platform Lifts recent CAN/CSA Standards B44, "Safety Code for POLICY Elevators," 2.2.3 Doors and Doorways Where needed, elevators and • Controls/buttons should • Doors, doorways or arched passenger platform lifts should include tactile information to openings should be a be designed to be useable ensure easy use by persons minimum of 915 mm wide, independently by and who have visual limitations. with no opening less than accessible to persons using Controls/buttons should be 860 mm clear between wheelchairs and scooters, easy to reach and push, be obstructions. in all public facilities. The raised and require minimal provision of ramps is strongly strength to activate. (See • For fully and partially glazed preferred over platform lifts. Figure 101, also Section doors, (See Section 2.1.5, (See Figure 126) 2.4.6, Controls and Glazed Screens and Operating Mechanisms) Sidelights). • Where fire doors or smoke
doors are required in any 1500 mm corridor hallway, they should be a minimum of 915 mm 600 mm 860 mm wide, and provide a clear width between stops of 860 mm. (See Figure 100) • To ensure free movement through public buildings, it is generally recommended that required fire and smoke barrier doors be installed on 1500 mm electrical hold-open devices so that the doors only close when the fire alarm is activated. • The opening force required for interior doors, using closers or other automatic latching devices should not exceed 22 Newtons.
Figure 100
60 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES INDOOR AREAS
• A delay button should be 2.2.5 Interior Ramps • The maximum length of any available both in the cab and ramp is 9 m between level • The provision of ramps is in each elevator lobby to landing areas. strongly preferred over allow boarding by persons platform lifts. who are slower than usual, as a result of ageing or disability. • Interior ramps should have a maximum slope of 1 in 12, • In both high-rise residential however, a slope of 1 in 15 and institutional facilities is preferred. (See Part 1: serving seniors or people Section 1.2.1, Accessible with disabilities, at least one Routes to Entrances and elevator should be capable of Figure 22) accommodating a stretcher, with a minimum platform size of 1725 mm by PORCH LIFT 2285 mm. (See Figure 102) • Individual platform lifts required to travel between levels not exceeding 1980 CONTROL mm shall have a platform PANEL size of no less than 1065 mm by 1370 mm. (See figure 103) • Elevators and platform lifts used by persons with disabilities should include an emergency call system linked to a monitored location within the building, Figure 101 with 2-way voice communication capability. • Install a concave mirror at the back of the elevator cab. • Lighting in elevator cabs and at platform lifts is recommended to be no less
than 100 lux (10 ft. candles) 2285 mm measured at the floor level. 1065 mm
The same lighting level 1370 mm should be provided in 1725 mm adjacent lobby space to minimize tripping hazards at door openings (See Section 2.4.11, Artificial Lighting). 915 mm
915 mm Figure 102 Figure 103
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 61 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES
• Where short ramps are 2.2.6 Safe Holding Areas • Have separate emergency required, e.g., for level lighting and ventilation differences of 150 mm, POLICY systems. A two-way voice the ramp slope may be Where a safe holding area communication system evaluated on case by case is included as part of the linked to the fire control basis. emergency plan for persons center should also be provided. • Ramp surfaces should be with disabilities, such holding non-slip. areas should be able to accommodate a number of • The width between handrails persons using various mobility should be not less than aids (e.g., wheelchairs or 900 mm and not more than scooters) and: 1100 mm. It is recommended that the width between • Be located in logical handrails should be a locations on each floor, minimum of 1015 mm. above or below grade, that are easy to identify by • Handrails are required on persons who have visual both sides of ramps and limitations and be accessible should extend at least to wheelchair and scooter 300 mm beyond the head users. and foot of the ramp. (See Part 1: Section 1.1.9, Ramps, and Figure 16) • Provide a cane-detectable PROTECT THIS AREA floor surface 765 mm deep at FROM CROSS TRAFFIC the head and foot of all ramps to alert persons who have visual limitations. 1980 mm 680 mm MIN. MIN. (2030 mm • The cane-detectable surface RECOMMENDED) should be colour or tone contrasted with surrounding floor to ensure easy identification. Figure 104
62 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.2 INTERIOR ROUTES INDOOR AREAS
2.2.7 Stairs and Steps • For handrail and guard 2.2.8 Turnstiles and dimensions etc., (See Figure Control Gates POLICY 105 and Part 1: Section 1.1.5 Guards and Handrails) • Wherever turnstiles or other Stairs and steps in all normal crowd control gates are used public routes and paths of • Handrails or guards should to manage the movement of travel should be safely useable be contrasting in colour and people, such turnstiles by persons with limited project a minimum of should either be of mobility, e.g., cane users. 300 mm beyond the top and breakaway design to The following criteria are bottom riser to aid persons accommodate persons using recommended. (Note: who have visual limitations. wheelchairs/scooters or have OBC standards should be an adjacent access gate that considered an absolute is wide enough to allow the minimum). (See 1.1.10 passage of persons using Stairs & Steps) wheelchairs/scooters or • Stair treads should be a other mobility aids. minimum recommended • Clearances at turnstiles or of 280 mm. gates should be a minimum • Stair risers should be a of 860 mm clear width. maximum recommended height of 180 mm. • Interior stairs or flights of steps should contain no less than 3 risers. Where the underside of stairs is open, a cane detectable barrier should be provided when the headroom clearance 450 mm is less than 1980 mm MIN. (2030 mm is recommended), as protection for persons
who have visual limitations. 30-50 mm (See Figure 104)
40 mm MIN. CLEARANCE FOR • A highly contrasting and SMOOTH WALL SURFACES cane-detectable floor surface 64 mm MIN. RECOMMENDED FOR at least 915 mm deep, should ROUGH WALL SURFACES be located at the head or foot of each flight of steps or stairs to warn persons who have visual limitations that a level change is pending. Figure 105
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 63 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES
POLICY • Public check-in counters 2.3.2 Door and Cupboard for coat storage located in Hardware All amenities in spaces used entertainment facilities or by the public or staff should other settings, should Persons with limited dexterity be accessible and useable by include at least one section and strength should be able to persons with varying of lowered counter, operate door and cupboard disabilities. approximately 765 mm hardware. 2.3.1 Coat Closets and wide and 865 mm high • Door pulls or latches should Coat Racks to allow easy access by be of the lever handled or persons using mobility aids. In public facilities and ‘D’ type for easy use by institutional settings, access • In residential settings, some persons with disabilities. to coat closets or racks is accessible clothing and bulk (See Figure 107) needed, especially in the storage space should be • Door hardware should be winter months. provided that is suitable for mounted no higher than persons using mobility aids. • In each major area or on 1065 mm. each floor, provide at least • Wherever possible, locks one section of coat hanging should be part of the handset. space that is reachable and useable by persons using • Sliding cupboard or door mobility aids such as hardware should be selected wheelchairs/scooters. and mounted so that the clear Note: approximately 10% of door opening that remains all coat space storage should is at least 860 mm wide. be accessible and free of (See Figure 108) obstacles. (See Figure 106) • Accessible closets and coat racks should have coat rods and/or coat hooks fixed securely and mounted between 1200 mm and 1370 mm high. • At least one fixed shelf should be provided in accessible sections of coat closets mounted no higher ACCESSIBILTY RANGE 1370 mm than 1420 mm. Note: No 1200 mm MAX. base or lower shelf should be installed in accessible
closets. 405 mm MIN. • Clear door openings for closets or coat racks should be at least 810 mm wide to Figure 106 allow a frontal approach by persons using mobility aids.
64 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES INDOOR AREAS
• Pocket door hardware should include a ‘D’ type pull on the leading edge.
2.3.3 Drinking Fountains Drinking fountains should be readily accessible to and useable by persons with disabilities, including persons who have visual limitations and those using mobility aids. • Drinking fountains should be set to one side of the path of travel with enough approach room for persons using Figure 107 mobility aids. (See Figure 109)
• Where the drinking fountain 860 mm 860 mm is recessed and/or wall mounted, clear knee space of 765 mm wide by 735 mm high to the underside of the unit is required.
• The controls for the drinking 860 mm 915 mm fountain should be: mounted to one side of the bowl; be no higher than 915 mm; and be easily operable with one Figure 108 hand. • The spout for water projection should preferably be no higher than 915 mm, with a trajectory across the bowl. Note: For persons who cannot use a drinking fountain easily, an adjacent paper cup dispenser should be provided. 1220 mm 760 - 915 mm MIN. TO SPOUT 250 mm OPENING
760 mm MIN.
Figure 109
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 65 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES
2.3.4 Equipment and wheelchair access and use. should have an open base to Furniture (See Figure 110) ensure persons using mobility aids approach. In selecting furniture or • Coffee and telephone tables, equipment for public and staff located in waiting areas and • Planters with strong areas, (e.g., lobbies, waiting lounges, should be no lower cane-detectable bases and dining areas), care should than 510 mm high and they should be selected. be taken to ensure that selected items (and their layout) will not constitute a hazard for persons who have visual limitations and that they are useable by persons with 785 mm varying disabilities. MAX. 700 mm • All items of furniture, MIN. equipment and planters etc., should be positioned to one 480 mm side of the normal path of MIN.
travel. 1220 mm MIN. • All temporary items, including display stands, information boards, easels, recycling bins etc., should be 760 mm located to one side of the MIN. normal path of travel. • Loose seating, chairs or benches should have seat Figure 110 heights between 405 m and 460 mm, so that seniors or others can get in and out of them without difficulty. • Some seats should be provided with both armrests and backrests to provide adequate support for frail COUNTER individuals, seniors or persons with stability and/or transferring difficulties.
700 mm • Tables and desks should MIN. generally be selected with a working surface no higher 725 - 865 mm 250 mm than 785 mm and clear knee MIN. space of 700 mm high, by at DEPTH least 760 mm wide between 760 mm supports, to allow easy MIN.
Figure 111
66 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES INDOOR AREAS
2.3.5 Information and lower than 460 mm from the • Numbers or names on Service Counters floor (e.g., between 5% and lockers should: be in distinct 10% of available spaces). and legible lettering; be • Counters used for (See Figures 112, 113 and mounted no higher than information or service 114) 1525 mm; and be of either purposes should have at raised or recessed lettering. least one section useable • Locks for accessible storage Lettering colour should be by persons in lockers should be mounted at highly contrasted from the wheelchairs/scooters at a 915 mm, but no higher than background. maximum height of 865 mm. 1065 mm. Locks should be The counter should have no easy to operate by persons obstructions that adversely with limited manual affect the ability of the dexterity. public or staff to pass through information or have eye contact. Accessible sections of counters should be a minimum of 760 mm wide, with knee space below of at least 250 mm deep by 1370 mm 700 mm high, to allow easy MAX. wheelchair/scooter approach and use. (See Figure 111)
• Where speaking ports are 460 mm provided at enquiry counters, MIN. ticket sales desks etc.; at least one such position Figure 112 Figure 113 should have the speaking port no higher than 1065 mm for persons using mobility aids. 510 mm MAX. GRASP REACH 2.3.6 Lockers and Baggage Storage In schools, recreation/transit facilities, or wherever public or private storage lockers are 1220 mm MAX. provided, at least some of the 865 mm storage units should be useable MAX. by persons using mobility aids. • Storage or baggage lockers for people with disabilities should have the bottom shelf Figure 114 of the compartment no higher than 1220 mm and no
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 67 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES
• Lettering or number size • Mailboxes or mail slots in • The lower edge of mirrors should be between 13 mm apartment buildings, over vanities and washbasins and 19 mm high, for easy recreational buildings and in public washrooms should legibility by persons who educational facilities etc., be mounted no higher than have visual disabilities. should include some 915 mm from the floor. accessible mailboxes, Alternatively, a tilted mirror • Aisle spaces in front of which are mounted between should be provided. lockers, baggage 610 mm and 1065 mm from (See Figure 115) compartments and carousels the floor. A "D" type handle should be a minimum of should be provided for easy • Where suitable mirrors 1370 mm deep to permit a finger grip by persons with cannot be mounted over forward or lateral approach limited manual dexterity. basins, a separate full-length by users with mobility aids. mirror is recommended. The • For signage and numbering lower edge of the mirror • Baggage racks or carousels of mailboxes, (See Section should be mounted for suitcases etc. should have 2.4.16, Signage and approximately 610 mm from the platform surface no Way-finding). the floor and extend to no higher than 460 mm from less than 1830 mm high. the floor. Such mirrors should be 2.3.8 Mirrors located where there is a 2.3.7 Mail Boxes Mirrors located in public clear floor area of 915 mm washrooms should be available by 1370 mm deep in front Mailboxes and post boxes to and mounted at suitable to ensure access by persons located in private or public heights for use by persons in using mobility aids. settings should be accessible wheelchairs or scooters. to persons using mobility aids. • Post boxes in public
buildings,recreational, IN DIFFICULT RENOVATIONS, A MIRROR WHICH IS SLIGHTLY TILTED DOWNWARDS LETS PERSONS IN WHEELCHAIRS tourist, or transit SEE A FULL VIEW OF THEMSELVES facilities should have mail slots for letters or packages mounted at 1015 mm but no higher than 1220 mm from floor level. A "D" type handle should be provided for easy finger grip by persons with limited manual dexterity.
> 915 mm (TILTED MIRROR)
< 915 mm (FLAT MIRROR)
Figure 115
68 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES INDOOR AREAS
• Mirrors that are mounted 2.3.10 Public Showers and • Accessible showers or immediately opposite doors/ Changing Rooms shower stalls should include openings into washrooms a drop down seat at one side, or elevators are not Public showers and changing mounted at a height of recommended as the rooms should be designed to 438-480 mm from the floor. reflections are confusing be accessible to people with A horizontal grab rail is to persons who have mobility aids. recommended to be provided cognitive limitations. • Where shower stalls are and mounted 915 mm from the floor, at the centre of the • Tinted mirrors or patterned provided, at least one stall should be 1500 mm wide by long side, and the grab bar mirror surfaces are not should be reachable from a recommended as they 900 mm deep with a level entry at the floor, or a seated position. present distorted images (See Figures 117) for some seniors and persons rounded or beveled threshold with low vision. no higher than 13 mm. • Shower controls should • Ensure that the floor drain is include pressure controls and • Lighting over mirrors should an automatic mixing valve so be of an even quality and not not situated in the standing or seating location. A level that hot water temperature act as a source of direct or does not exceed 49 OC, to approach space of at least reflected glare. minimize accidental scalding. 900 mm by 1500 mm should be provided to accommodate • Telephone type showerheads 2.3.9 Platforms/Daises users with mobility aids. are recommended on a (See Figure 116) flexible hose and mounted • Platforms or daises, provided on an adjustable rod, to for display or presentation allow varying showerhead purposes, should be positions. (See Figure 117) accessible to and useable by
persons with mobility aids. 1500 mm • Permanent or temporary 900 mm ramps should be available for persons with mobility limitations and should be located so as not to constitute a tripping 900 mm hazard for persons who have visual limitations. • Ramps to platforms should comply with Section 3.8 of the Ontario Building Code.
• The surface of ramps should 900 mm be non-slip (e.g., glued down carpet) and the junction with the floor should be no greater than a 13 mm rise. 1500 mm
Figure 116
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 69 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES
• Floor drains in accessible • Accessible public and staff • The preferred faucet showers should be positioned washrooms should be on basins are of the away from a seated shower equipped with automatic automatic type. user. door openers whenever • Where larger accessible possible. showers are required, (e.g., • The preferred side grab bar at the entrance to a pool deck is the reversed “L” shaped area), thresholds should be type. no higher than 13 mm. • Changing rooms providing aisles and access to clothes lockers should have no aisle space less than 1100 mm wide. • Some accessible lockers should be provided for use by persons with mobility aids and mounted between 460 mm and 1220 mm high. • Locks for accessible lockers should be easy to use with one hand and by persons with limited manual dexterity.
2.3.11 Public Washrooms
Accessible public washrooms 438 - 480 mm should be designed in accordance with requirements of the Ontario Building Code, Section 3.8. Figure 117 • Where unisex/family washrooms are provided, they should be located close to public washrooms.
• The provision of a 350 mm baby-changing table, mounted no higher than 865 mm from floor level, should be considered.
840 mm
Figure 118
70 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES INDOOR AREAS
(See Figures 118, 119, 120 and 760 mm Sections 2.3.10, Public MIN. 460 mm Showers and Changing Rooms MIN. and Section 2.3.14, Washroom 1500 mm Accessories; See Also MIN. Part 1: Section 1.4.7, 1200 mm Public Washrooms) MIN. 485 mm CLEAR MAX. SPACE 2.3.12 Vanities and CLEAR SPACE 600 mm Work Surfaces 1400 mm MIN. 1500 mm MIN. MIN. 1500 mm 1220 mm • Vanity surfaces located in MIN. MIN. public washrooms and cloak rooms, should be CLEAR SPACE mounted no lower than 760 mm and no higher 300 mm
than 840 mm to allow 450 mm MIN. 1500 mm RECOMMENDED easy access by users with MIN. mobility aids. • Knee space below the
accessible vanity counter 305 mm or apron should be at least RECOMMENDED 735 mm high at the front 460 – 480 mm 1675 mm edge of the apron by RECOMMENDED 205 mm deep from front Figure 119 edge and 760 mm wide, Figure 119 to allow easy access by persons using mobility aids. Note: Many scooters 485 mm have higher seats than MAX. wheelchairs and a higher knee clearance may be
desirable. (See Figure 120) 840 mm 735 mm 230 mm MIN. MAX. 685 mm MIN. TOE CLEARANCE • Basins in accessible vanities MIN. 460 mm should be mounted as far MIN. forward as possible, without 485 mm MAX. 205 mm encroaching on the MIN. KNEE CLEARANCE recommended knee 280 mm space clearances. 430 mm • The hot water basin 150 mm MIN. 840 mm temperature should be TOE CLEARANCE MAX. controlled, i.e. 49 OC or lower. Where water temperature is higher, waste OPEN SPACE traps below basins should be insulated to prevent 760 mm accidental burns. MIN. (See Figure 118) Figure 120
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 71 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES
• Accessible work surfaces at service or information counters, study carrels etc., should be mounted between SNACKS SWITCH 760 mm and 865 mm high, COIN SLOT with clear knee space below.
2.3.13 Vending Machines Where vending machines are provided, care should be taken RECEPTACLE CHANGE RETURN 1200 mm to ensure that such machines MAX. are accessible to and useable by persons with mobility aids 405 mm and low vision. MIN. • Vending machine controls, dispensing areas, or other working parts should be Figure 121 located no higher than 1200 mm and no lower than 465 mm from the floor.
(See Figure 121) 13 mm MIN. • Signage on vending machines should be in high contrast letters and at least Light Dark 13 mm high, to ensure legibility by persons with on on visual limitations. (See Figure 122) Dark Light • Floor space in front of vending machines should be at least 1370 mm deep Figure 122 by 1525 mm long, to allow lateral access by persons with mobility aids, including wheelchair/scooter users.
72 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES INDOOR AREAS
2.3.14 Washroom • Where soap dispensers are Accessories provided, they should be mounted within reach of • Washroom accessories, such all users, no higher than as paper towel dispensers, 1200 mm from floor. soap dispensers, and waste Dispenser should be bins etc., should have no automatic (e.g., sensors) controls, operating or or have buttons/controls that dispensing components are easy to operate with one mounted higher than hand, especially by persons 1200 mm from the floor. with limited manual (See Figure 123) dexterity. • Toilet paper dispenser should be mounted so they are reachable from a seated position and capable of being operated with one hand without binding and located so that the use of the toilet and grab bar is not obstructed (traditional roller 1200 mm to be used as an option). MAX. • At least one mirror in public washrooms, change rooms or locker rooms is recommended to be full Figure 123 length as an aid to grooming. • Faucets on basins may be automatic (preferred) or of the 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 edge of the vanity or basin to the faucet should not exceed 485 mm for persons using mobility aids.
Figure 124
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 73 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.3 INTERIOR AMENITIES
2.3.15 Windows and • Where required, window • Window blinds, drapes Window Hardware hardware should be of the or louvers should have lever handle type (i.e., not a operators, controls, and pull In buildings with operable rotary action). cords etc., that are accessible windows, the opening sections to persons using mobility should be easy to reach and • In residential suites, opening aids, (i.e., with controls in an operate by persons using units of windows should be open approachable space), mobility aids. designed to deflect direct mounted no higher than drafts away from the 1200 mm. (See Figure 125) • Sill heights should ideally be occupants whenever no higher than 760 mm from possible. the floor to allow vision out by persons using mobility aids or by persons who are confined to their beds. (See Figure 125) • Horizontal transoms in windows should be designed so that they do not interrupt the eye level of seated persons (i.e., not mounted between 1070 mm and 1200 mm). (See Figure 125) • Deep windowsills located in residential and institutional units that provide an extra surface for plants and 1200 mm photographs should be MAX.
reachable by persons using 760 mm mobility aids. • Window opening hardware should be mounted no higher than 1065 mm, where possible. Figure 125
74 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS INDOOR AREAS
POLICY (e.g., through changes in 2.4.2 Audible floor finishes). Signals All Building Systems should be designed to accommodate • Ceiling shapes should be Essential audible signals, the needs of people with designed so that echoes do such as fire-alarm signals or varying disabilities. The not occur. Note: Domed elevator arrival call systems, needs of persons with vision shaped ceilings tend to should be loud/distinct enough or hearing loss should be distort sound. to be heard above normal particularly considered, • Public address and call ambient sounds by persons with respect to lighting and systems should be capable with sensory disabilities. acoustic design. The needs of of being zoned to key areas, (See figure 126) seniors and others, respecting rather than blanketing all personal comfort and • Fire alarm signals in public areas of a building at all safety, also require special buildings should be designed times. consideration. to alert seniors and persons with sensory disabilities, that 2.4.1 Acoustics (1) there is a problem, and The acoustical environment (2) when to evacuate the of public buildings and spaces building. should accommodate the unique needs of persons who have visual or auditory limitations and who may need to differentiate essential sounds from general background noise. 50 mm
• Floor finishes, wall surfaces 1030 mm and ceilings should be selected so that occasional noise is not unduly amplified (e.g., hard floor surfaces 1525 mm such as marble and terrazzo), allow foot steps to be heard 1065 mm by persons with visual 760 mm limitations but may add confusion for persons with auditory disabilities. 150 mm • Locating accessible paths of travel in large buildings may 915 mm AN AUDIBLE SIGNAL SHALL INDICATE be problematic for persons THE PASSING OR LOCATION OF A FLOOR. with visual limitations and VISUAL INDICATION SHALL BE PROVIDED IN A CAR TO SHOW WHAT FLOOR THE CAR IS ON. some design changes may be desirable to ensure that BOTH VISUAL AND AUDIBLE SIGNALS MUST BE USED. impact sounds from secondary corridors are Figure 126 different in quality from sounds in major routes
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 75 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS
• Audible alarm signals should • Where interior doors in areas are required to have be accompanied by visual public buildings providing closers as part of general alarms, as an aid to persons access to essential services, fire-safety requirements, who are deaf, deafened or programs, work or support power assisted openers may hard of hearing. Note: also be desirable. For persons who have both visual and auditory limitations, WIDE ZONE
portable-vibrating alarms MOTION SENSOR (TYPICAL) should be considered. • In all public buildings and institutions providing services or programs to UNIVERSAL SYMBOL seniors and persons with (TYPICAL) disabilities, a two-stage emergency alarm system is recommended, with distinctive (i.e., pulses or intermittent) audible pedestrian signals for each stage.
APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF MOTION SENSOR DETECTION ZONE (TYPICAL) THE WIDE ZONE IS USED 2.4.3 Automatic WHERE THERE IS SIDE TRAFFIC Door Openers Figure 127 Persons (public, staff, etc.) with varying disabilities should be able to enter or exit the NARROW ZONE building safely and easily. MOTION SENSOR (TYPICAL) • At main entrances and at other accessible entrances to public buildings and institutions, automatic door UNIVERSAL SYMBOL openers or assisted door (TYPICAL) openers on both the exterior entrance and the related vestibule doors should be provided. (See also Section 2.1.3, Door Hardware, Locks and Closures and Section 2.1.5, Glazed Screens and APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF MOTION Sidelights) SENSOR DETECTION ZONE (TYPICAL)
THE NARROW ZONE IS USED FOR DIRECT APPROACHES OR SWING DOORS
Figure 128
76 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS INDOOR AREAS
• The controls for power 2.4.4 Card Access Systems • See also doors and glazed assisted doors should be & Security Systems doors. (See Section 2.1.5, located clear of the door Glazed Screens and swing where there is • Where card access systems Sidelights) sufficient approach space, are selected to enter in areas where there is a particular facilities or spaces, minimum clear floor space the system selected should of 1065 mm by 1525 mm for be suitable for use by access by persons using persons with varying mobility aids. Controls disabilities, including should be mounted between persons with limited manual 1000 mm and 1100 mm high dexterity, visual disabilities from floor measured from or difficulty with reaching the centre of the control, (e.g., limited upper body preferably not on door movement). jambs. (See also Section 2.1, • Card entry systems should be Entrances) wall/post mounted, between • Where automatic detection 1000 mm and 1100 mm from systems are used, (such as the floor measured from the pressure sensitive mats or centre of the control card light beams) the layout of the entry system. mats or light beam coverage • Where keypads or other should ensure that persons encoded entry/exit systems using mobility aids (e.g., are used, the buttons should wheelchairs/scooters), be raised, mounted on a seniors or persons with bright coloured background visual limitations have time and include raised numerals to clear the opening safely, or letters in a constant array. before the door closes again. (See Figures 127 & 128) • Where keypad systems are door or jamb mounted, there • Where automatic exterior should be enough space doors swing open toward (e.g., free of the door swing), oncoming pedestrians or are to allow a person using a located in busy interior areas, mobility aid to approach and lateral guards should be use the keypad and the door provided. Guards should safely. extend a minimum of 305 mm beyond the swing • Card systems selected should of the door on both sides of have cards that are easy to the opening, to provide a use by persons who have warning to persons with visual limitations, either by visual limitations. using a distinct colour or (See Section 2.1.2, texture on one side, or by Doors and Doorways and using raised numbers, letters Figure 85) and Braille to ensure easy orientation and use.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 77 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS
2.4.5 Communication • Where visual public • In networked systems, Systems communication systems consideration should be or displays are utilized for given to special input and General (non-emergency) public information purposes, output requirements for communication systems should (e.g., at video type persons who have sensory be accessible to, useable and terminals), an audio output, limitations. understood by persons with (such as voice or tape) See also Section 2.4.14. various sensory limitations. should be considered, as • All essential two-way well as alternate forms of communication systems, essential information (e.g., utilizing voice input or large print and braille text, output, should also include a for persons who have visual digital display for persons limitations). with auditory or voice limitations. • Communication systems (such as telephones and intercoms) should include at least one unit in each array with volume enhancement for persons who have hearing limitations. Systems should also include a coupling device for persons using hearing aids. • At major information counters, enquiry and booking locations, consideration should be given to the use of a TTY telephone (i.e., text telephone with a digital display). (See Figure 129) • Where visual input or output displays are utilized, some consideration should be given to the needs of persons who have visual limitations by providing an alternate or supplementary system, with an audio output.
A PORTABLE TTY MOUNTED ON A SHELF LOCATED NEXT TO A PAY TELEPHONE IS ONE SOLUTION
Figure 129
78 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS INDOOR AREAS
2.4.6 Controls and • Lever type controls or raised • All duplex receptacles Operating Mechanisms push buttons, no smaller than should be mounted no lower 13 mm in diameter, are than 460 mm from the floor • All controls and operating generally recommended. and no higher than 1065 mm mechanisms should be (e.g., above counters or work reachable and useable by • All light switches, surfaces). persons with varying thermostats and fire alarm disabilities. pull stations etc., should (See Figures 130 and 131) be mounted no higher than 1200 mm. • All controls, operating components or dispensing slots should be mounted between 610 mm and 1200 mm from the floor, to allow easy access by persons THERMOSTAT SWITCH using mobility aids. • Controls and operating mechanisms should be clearly visible and
identifiable by a distinct ELEVATOR 1200 mm HALL DOORS ELEVATOR HALL colour or tone compared MAX. CALL BUTTON to the background colour. The colour brightness or contrast should be 70% or greater for best visibility for persons with visual limitations. Note: Yellow Figure 130 on a black background is an acceptable contrast, however, grey on black provides
insufficient contrast. MAXIMUM FORWARD REACH • Instruction information detailing the use of key controls or operating mechanisms should be clearly visible in large print 1370 mm text, on a highly contrasting MAX. background. Instructions should be mounted close to key controls or operating mechanisms for easy identification by all users.
Figure 131
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 79 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS
2.4.7 Electrical Power • Audible signals for two-stage • In facilities serving persons evacuation should have who are blind or who have Electrical power should distinct noises/sounds visual limitations, increased be sufficient to allow in each stage (e.g. be warning signage should be supplementary lighting and distinguishable from each provided. communication devices to be other). (See Figure 132) added wherever needed to • Portable vibratory alarms benefit various persons with • Announcements regarding should be considered to disabilities who use the facility fire-exiting procedures supplement auditory signals, or site. should be loud enough to for persons (including staff) carry above ambient noise with hearing limitations who • Emergency power should be levels and be preceded by a are permanent occupants of sufficient to ensure adequate distinctive sound, in order to a building or institution, or emergency lighting levels, alert building occupants. who are overnight guests in the use of elevators and other a hotel. key operating components • Visible flashing signals and/or systems during a should be utilized. Note: power outage, in all major the pulse of visible flashing areas of the facility, along all signals should be tested to paths of travel to exits and in ensure that it does not trigger all designated safe holding epileptic seizures. areas. • Signals should be mounted • An emergency powered high on the walls and should duplex receptacle should be be easily visible against provided in all commercial, background colour and institutional, and other lighting. occupancies which facilitate overnight accommodations, designated for use by persons with disabilities.
SMOKE CONTROL DETECTORS SPEAKERS PANEL 2.4.8 Fire/Emergency Systems and Signals Fire alarm signals should include both audible and visible components to alert persons with sensory limitations. (See also Section 2.2.6, Safe Holding Areas and HEAT DETECTORS BELLS Section 2.4.2, Audible Signals) MICROPHONE • Audible signals should provide distinctive sounds and be of sufficient power to be heard clearly above the
ambient noise in the PULL STATIONS LINK TO FIRE DEPARTMENT environment. Figure 132
80 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS INDOOR AREAS
2.4.9 Heating, Cooling, and • To minimize noise from air • On display monitors, Ventilation Systems handling systems in meeting, consideration should be work and study areas, it is given to include an enlarging Heating, cooling and recommended that fan function for persons with ventilation systems should be mounts be acoustically low vision. designed to accommodate isolated. Related ductwork persons whose circulatory should be insulated to aid • Information systems designed systems are inadequate. persons with hearing for direct access by the For instance, many seniors limitations. general public, (e.g., video and persons using mobility display terminals with devices have difficulty sensing keyboard or keypad access) temperature differences 2.4.10 Information Systems should be easy to operate, because of poor circulation or and Directories require little physical effort body tone. When the ambient and be mounted at a height temperature is too high or • Information systems suitable for use by persons too low, they may become providing direct information with mobility aids (e.g., dehydrated or suffer from to the public need to be 1200 mm.) comprehensible to a wide hypothermia. • Push-buttons (or other variety of users, including controls) accessing public • Ambient air temperature in persons with sensory information systems should facilities serving persons disabilities. (See also be clearly identifiable by who are either: frail, seniors Section 2.4.5, colour and/or tone from the or persons with disabilities, Communication Systems) should be designed to background colour, with operate between 21º C and • Where essential auditory a contrast of 70% or greater. 26º C (70º F and 79º F) at all information is available, Push-buttons or other times of the year. (e.g., on audiotape, by controls should include telephone or other means), it raised numbers, numerals • The humidity in the air of should be complemented by or symbols for easy residential facilities and suitable printed material. identification by persons institutions serving seniors who have visual disabilities. or persons with disabilities, • Essential print information (See also Section 2.4.6, should be designed to should generally be printed Controls and Operating operate between 30% - 40%, in large text (e.g., 12-14 pt Mechanisms) (especially during the winter bold) on a highly contrasting months), to aid proper background colour. Print • Lighting levels at keyboards skin care. information should also or other controls should be be available in alternate evenly distributed at no less • Mechanical, ventilation and formats, including braille or than 200 lux (20 ft. candles). air-cooling systems should audiotape, for use by persons • Visual display screens, in be designed so that the air who have visual limitations. flow from diffusers/grills is public information or display not directed towards persons • Information typically systems, should be mounted lying in bed or toward available on visual display to ensure there is no direct permanent seating or work- screens should also be glare (e.g., from artificial or ing locations. available in other formats, natural lighting) on the including audiotape or surface of the screen. large print.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 81 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS
2.4.11 • The leading edges of stairs, 2.4.12 Natural Lighting steps, ramps or escalators Artificial Lighting • Wherever possible, natural should be evenly lit to light should be utilized to • Artificial lighting and natural minimize tripping hazards. assist in lighting entrances, light sources should provide Low-level lighting is also corridors and major comfortable, evenly desirable in special locations, workspaces. However, care distributed light at all (e.g., theatres) to aid in safe should be taken to minimize working surfaces on the navigation by all users. floors of all circulation direct glare (e.g., reflected routes and in all areas of • Lighting levels in elevator from floor or work surfaces) potential hazard, to aid lobbies should be similar to that is problematic for persons with low vision. the lighting levels in elevator persons with visual cabs in order to minimize disabilities. • Light sources and fixtures tripping hazards. Lighting should be selected to levels in elevator lobbies are minimize direct or indirect recommended to be no less 2.4.13 Listening Devices glare from nearby reflective than 100 lux (10 ft. candles), surfaces and to ensure that • In public meeting or at the threshold of the assembly areas serving persons with low vision can elevator. navigate safely. a number of people, • Emergency lighting over consideration of the needs • Lighting design should ensure interior stairs and ramps, in of persons who are deaf or that the quality of light is exits, or other paths of travel, hard of hearing should be close to a full spectrum as is recommended to be included. possible to aid in edge and whenever reasonable colour definition by persons • An FM loop, or other 100 lux (10 ft. candles) at assistive listening system, who have visual disabilities. the walking surface and Where fluorescent or quartz are recommended to be 50 lux (5 ft. candles) considered for all meeting light sources with a high in exterior locations. blue content are used, rooms or assembly and they should be offset with • Lighting over directional entertainment areas, serving incandescent lights. This or informational signage more than 35 persons. ensures the warm end of at public telephones, (See Figure 133) the spectrum provides informational/service • Where infrared assistive appropriate colour definition. counters, automatic teller listening devices are used, machines, or other keypad • Light fixtures with multiple ensure that no overhead operations, should be no less incandescent lights cancel pinpoints of high intensity than 200 lux (20 ft. candles) light should be avoided, as out the infrared signal at at the working or the receiver. they add an unnecessary information surface. source of glare and leave an • In meeting areas, after image on the retina • Lighting over lecterns, dimmer switches (or other for persons with low vision. podiums, platforms or other transformer coils) should be speaker locations should be • Lighting should be laid out carefully located so as not capable of being enhanced, to cause electro-magnetic to create even distribution at even when other lighting floor level, and to minimize interference with any audio is dimmed, to permit induction loops. pools of light or areas of lip-reading and a view shadow. Such variations in of any of the hand actions lighting levels are confusing (i.e., from ‘signers’) used to to many seniors and communicate with persons persons with low vision. who are deaf.
82 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS INDOOR AREAS
• Where an FM loop system, as well as in common use • Personal alarm, staff or other or other assistive listening areas located in institutional call systems (e.g., nurse device is provided in public settings. call), should be selected buildings or meeting areas, • Public address systems with care and according to portable headsets compatible should preferably be zoned the requirements of the with personal hearing aids so that information can be particular setting or user. should be made available to directed to key locations Call systems should always persons who may require only, to minimize be used with discretion. them. (See Figure 133) background noise in other • Paging systems for use by • Where an induction loop areas of the building. staff or other key personnel system is utilized, only half • Where public address systems should be selected to be the seating area will need to are used to broadcast discreet and low in volume. be encompassed. background music, care Systems should only sound • Every theatre intended for should be taken to ensure at devices or locations viewing of motion pictures that it is only in selected where such persons might shall accommodate described (zoned) areas of the facility, reasonably be expected video and the installation of and that the system can be to be located. rear-view captioning in switched off in localized (See also Section 2.4.5, conformance with the areas, when required. Communication Systems) Ontario Building Code. • All-point call systems should • Larger meeting rooms should only be utilized for fire and 2.4.15 Telephones be designed and furnished emergency information • See Part 1: Section 1.4.6, to allow a clear view of the (i.e., not for paging staff). Public Telephones, and speaker(s) at all times. Section 2.4.5, (See also Section 2.4.1, Communication Systems. Acoustics) (See also Figure 129)
2.4.14 Public Address MICROPHONE, CD, TAPE, TELEVISION, DVD, FILM, ETC. Systems
• Public address systems NORMAL SOUND SYSTEM should be easy to hear above ambient background noise, without distortion or SPEAKERS
feedback, as an aid persons AMPLIFIER with hearing or visual limitations. • Public address speakers should be mounted above head-level and provide effective sound coverage in required areas such as
corridors, assembly and FM BROADCAST SYSTEM FM TRANSMITTER meeting rooms, recreational, entertainment and FM RECEIVER educational facilities, Figure 133
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 83 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS
2.4.16 Signage and • Room numbers or names Way-finding should be mounted on the wall close to the opening • Persons with visual side of the door, preferably limitations, seniors, persons within 305 mm of the with cognitive limitations doorframe as a constant and persons whose primary reference location. language is not English, may be highly dependent on a comprehensive signage system, for orientation and way-finding in large or complex buildings, where public services or programs are provided. Such signage and complementary way-finding strategies must be logical, consistent in design and distribution throughout the building and include lettering, numbers, pictograms or icons that are legible and easy to comprehend. (See Figures 134, 135, 136, 138 and 139) • All directional signage and Figure 134 locational signage should be mounted at eye-level, between 1370 mm and 1525 mm high, for quick and easy identification by persons who have visual limitations. (See Figure 137)
Figure 135
84 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS INDOOR AREAS
• Lettering for room numbers • Lettering or signs providing • Directional, instructional or names should be no general directions should be information, or maps smaller than 25 mm high in in large size print that is showing exiting details for sans serif type print and be legible from normal viewing emergency situations should in a highly contrasting colour distance(s). (See Figure 141) be located on every floor of (70% or greater), compared large buildings providing to the background colour. services or programs Raised lettering is preferred to the public. for easy identification by persons with visual disabilities. • For Braille users, braille information should be located immediately below all room numbers and names, as well as below any major directional signs. (See Figure 142) Figure 136 • In larger public facilities, a tactile map of the facility showing the distribution and location of key areas/spaces should be provided RAISED in the main entrance lobby. 0.8 mm MIN. In large complex buildings such as hospitals, tactile maps may be required on each floor and should be located close to the major 25 mm point of arrival to the MIN. floor (e.g., elevator lobby).
BRAILLE 1525 mm
Figure 137
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 85 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS
• Where special exiting 2.4.17 Ticketing Machines • Ticket dispensing machines instructions are provided for should not have operable or persons with disabilities, • Both interior and exterior dispensing parts higher than (e.g., directions to ticketing machines for 1200 mm or lower than safe holding areas), this parking, fares, or general 915 mm from floor level. information should be in admission etc., should be large print on a highly accessible to persons with contrasting background for limited manual dexterity, easy identification and persons using mobility legibility by persons with devices and persons with low vision. (See Figure 140) low vision. • For exiting and fire alarm signage, (See OBC requirements). • For signage relating to elevators, (See CAN/CSA B. 355 and CAN/CSA B.651 Appendix C for Tactile Signage).
MEN TOILET HOMMES TOILETTE
Figure 138 Figure 139
Figure 140
86 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.4 INTERIOR SYSTEMS AND CONTROLS INDOOR AREAS
• Control buttons or card
access locations should be STROKE WIDTH = 1 UNIT easy to identify and useable 1 UNIT by persons with low vision or limited manual dexterity.
(See also Section 2.4.6, 1 UNIT Controls and Operating Mechanisms)
CHARACTER 2.4.18 Video Display HEIGHT = 1 UNIT 6 TO 10 UNITS Terminals • See Section 2.4.10 Information Systems and
Directories, Section 1 UNIT 2.4.11(a), Artificial Lighting and Section 2.4.12(b), Natural Lighting. Figure 141
INFORMATION SIGNS SHOULD SLOPED SURFACE ALSO HAVE A BRAILLE STRIP
RAISED GRAPHICS AND CHARACTERS
Figure 142
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 87 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
POLICY • The minimum number of • Public washrooms should accessible seating locations be accessible to athletes, Members of the public, is: 2 for the first 100 seats visitors, or staff with various regardless of age or disability, and 1 seat for each disabilities. should be able to access and successive 100 seats. use all public facilities, services • Staff accommodation and and programs. Wherever • Access panels, with a related support areas, offices possible, staff and support minimum of 865 mm clear or meeting rooms should areas of such facilities should entry width, should be accommodate persons with be able to accommodate provided for all users to mobility aids. (See also persons with disabilities as access the arena floor or Section 2.5.15, Meeting visitors, consultants or as ice surface. Areas, Assembly employees. Rooms and Theatres) • Changing/Locker Room 2.5.1 Arenas accommodation for athletes or others should be designed • Sports arenas (including all to accommodate all persons coaching and playing areas) with disabilities, including should accommodate persons users of mobility aids. (See with varying disabilities, as Figures 143, 144 and also well as persons who use Section 2.3.10, Public mobility aids (e.g., Showers and Changing wheelchairs and scooters). Rooms) • Accessible seating locations should have clear sight lines. Because of the increase in size of wheelchairs and scooters it is recommended the accessible seating space to be a minimum of 900 mm wide by 1500 mm deep for side approach. At least two (2) spaces should be provided together in each location with direct access to an accessible aisle or passageway. (See Part 1: Figure 143 Figure 144 Section 1.3.7, Grandstands and Viewing Areas and Figures 38 and 39)
88 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
2.5.2 ATM’s / Bank Machines • Volume controls should be available for persons with • Automated Banking limited hearing wherever Machines, including display voice instructions are units, keyboards and signage provided. should be securely mounted and designed for use by
persons with various BANKING MACHINE disabilities. (See Figures 145 & 146) • There should be a minimum clear floor space of deep X wide (1220 mm X 915 mm) and (685 mm) knee space, in front and underneath automated banking machines, so that persons using wheelchairs 165 mm MIN. 790 mm can reach them easily. 205 mm 610 mm 710 mm PREFFERED MIN. • All Automated Banking Machine related controls, switches, panels, card and cash handling devices, should be mounted no higher Figure 145 than (1220 mm) from the floor and be usable by
persons with limited BANKING MACHINE 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 should include Braille instructions and large print text for persons with limited vision. • Voice or sound cues should be provided in addition where specific sequences or instructions are to be Figure 146 followed.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 89 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
2.5.3 Cafeterias, Cutlery, condiments, and • Beverage dispensing areas Restaurants, Dining napkin containers etc., should be accessible to Areas and Bars should be mounted no higher persons using wheelchairs or than 1065 mm from floor scooters with machines that • Cafeterias, restaurants, level. (See Figure 148) are easy to operate with one cafés, bars, and/or other hand. (See also Section 2.4.6 areas providing food or beverage services, should be accessible to persons with varying disabilities, including persons using mobility aids. TRAY RAIL • Accessible seating locations for persons using mobility aids should be available in all areas or levels, providing food or beverage services. • Aisle spaces between furniture, equipment or other fixed objects should be wide enough to allow a person using mobility aids to pass, i.e., major aisles should be a minimum of 1065 mm wide. The narrowest aisle should be at least 810 mm wide. 810-1065 mm (See Figure 147) Figure 147 Controls) • Where counter service is provided, at least one section THIS SHELF CANNOT BE SEEN BY of the counter should be no SOMEONE IN A WHEELCHAIR 915 mm higher than 915 mm by 760 mm wide, to allow a REACH 610 mm person using a wheelchair REACHABLE MAX. or scooter to approach. DISPLAY SHELF (See Figure 148) • Where cafeteria or buffet style food services are 1220 mm provided, displays should be MAX.
accessible and mounted on 380 mm 915 mm surfaces no higher than MIN. 915 mm from the floor. Overhead display shelves should be no higher than 1220 mm (e.g., for desserts and salads etc.). Figure 148
90 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
• Where tray rails are 2.5.4 Churches and Places • For accessible entrances, provided, they should be of Worship (See Section 2.1.4, as continuous as possible Entrances) to allow persons using • All public areas in churches wheelchairs or scooters to and places of worship should • For accessible washrooms, slide a tray along easily. be accessible to persons showers, coatrooms, etc., (Note: Random access with varying disabilities, (See Section 2.3.1, Coat cafeteria set-ups are generally including main areas of Closets and Coat Racks, not recommended, as they worship, meeting rooms, Section 2.3.10, Public are difficult for persons washrooms, coatrooms and Washrooms and Changing with visual impairments to offices. Rooms) comprehend, and difficult • Accessible seating locations, • For office and meeting room to use by persons who are in addition to fixed seating, areas (including classrooms, mobility impaired). should be provided for Sunday school areas, etc., • Cashier locations should persons using mobility aids. (See Section 2.5.15, Meeting include accessible aisles, a Such locations should be Rooms, Assembly Areas and minimum of 915 mm wide distributed in various places Theatres) with clear resting surfaces to ensure that persons with for trays etc. Surfaces should disabilities can sit with be mounted no higher than other family members or 915 mm from the floor. friends. The recommended (See Figure 149) proportion of accessible seating is 2 for each 100 • Where barriers and turnstiles seating locations or 2%. are provided to control access, at least one accessible location should be included at a minimum 915 mm of 915 mm wide. • For queuing areas (See also Section 2.2.8, Turnstiles and Control Gates and Section 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 Areas and Features)
CHECKOUT LANE COUNTER
Figure 149
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 91 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
• For raised areas e.g.: pulpits, • For signage and way finding 2.5.7 Community Centres altars, daises, choir areas, (See Section 2.4.16, Signage • Community Centres by their etc., (See also Section 2.3.9 and Way-finding). very nature, offer various Platforms and Daises and • For public meeting areas programs and activities to a Section 2.5.17, Schools and (See Section 2.5.15, Meeting wide range of public Continuing Education Rooms, Assembly Areas and participants of all age Centres) Theatres). groups. Amongst these are • For public address systems • For public washrooms senior citizens and mothers and listening devices (See Section 2.3.10, Public with small children. Such (See Section 2.4.5, Washrooms and Changing centres should be fully Communication Systems, Rooms). accessible to persons with Section 2.4.13, Listening varying disabilities, both as Devices and Section 2.4.14, • For fire and life safety members of the public and as Public Address Systems) (See Section 2.4.8, Fire employees. Emergency Systems and • For lighting systems (See Signals, Section 2.4.14, • All public areas of Section 2.4.11, Artificial Public Address Systems and Community Centres should Lighting and Section 2.4.12, Section 2.6.4, Fire and Life be designed to be accessible Natural Lighting) Safety). to persons using mobility aids, as well as persons with sensory limitations. 2.5.5 Office Buildings 2.5.6 Clinics • For general access • Offices providing services or • All facilities providing health requirements (See programs to the public should care services to the public Section 2.1.4, Entrances, be accessible to everyone, should be fully accessible to Section 2.1.7, Thresholds, including staff, regardless of seniors and persons with Section 2.2.1, Aisles and age or disability. varying disabilities. Passageways and Section • Accessible offices and 2.2.2, Corridors and • Public health, out-patient, Hallways) workspaces should be able to physiotherapist, chiropractic accommodate persons using clinics, doctor’s offices, • For public meeting and mobility aids in all areas of dental offices, diagnostic assembly areas (See Section the building or site. and treatment settings should 2.5.15, Meeting Rooms, • All support areas and be designed to be fully Assembly Areas and amenities provided for both accessible to persons using Theatres) the public and employees mobility aids. • For public display or should be accessible • All clinic, diagnostic, exhibition areas (See Section to persons using mobility treatment or support areas, 2.5.9, Display, Exhibition aids, as well as persons with including offices, Areas, Galleries and limited vision or hearing. consultation and treatment Museums) • For public information areas cubicles, should be large • For recreation facilities, and services (See Section enough to accommodate swimming pools and arenas 2.1.9, Waiting Areas, Section persons using wheelchairs/ (See Section 2.5.1, Arenas, 2.3.5, Information and scooters with no internal Section 2.5.10, Gymnasium, Service Counters, Section aisle less than 1100 mm Section 2.5.11, Ice-Rinks, 2.4.5, Communication wide and doorway less than Section 2.5.15, Recreation Systems and Section 2.4.10, 865 mm wide, between walls Facilities and Section 2.5.23, Information Systems and or door stops. Swimming Pools) Directories)
92 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
• For public amenities such • All offices, meeting rooms, 2.5.9 Display, Exhibition as washrooms, showers, holding areas, changing Areas, Galleries and changing, cloakrooms, and areas or other support Museums public telephones, etc. (See facilities available to Section 2.3.1, Coat Closets members of the legal • All displays or exhibits and Coat Racks, Section fraternity, the police or whether in permanent or 2.3.10, Public Washrooms support staff should be temporary locations, should and Changing Rooms) accessible to persons with be capable of being accessed, varying disabilities. enjoyed and understood by • For public libraries (See persons with varying Section 2.5.13, Libraries) • Special holding/detention disabilities. areas and visitor areas should • For signage and way finding be designed to accommodate • Exhibition and display (See Section 2.4.16, Signage persons using mobility aids, spaces should be fully and Way-finding) including all access routes accessible to persons using • For building systems, from prisoner arrival areas mobility aids. Aisle spaces heating, lighting, ventilation through to the courtroom or between exhibits or study and communications (See meeting and interview areas should be at least Section 2.4.1, Acoustics, rooms. 1065 mm. 2.4.5, Communication • For general accessibility • Exhibits should be mounted Systems, 2.4.7, Electrical requirements, for entrances, so that a person using a Power and Section 2.4.9, hallways, stairs, etc. (See wheelchair can look at the Heating, Cooling and Section 2.1.4, Entrances, exhibit easily from a seated Ventilation Systems) Section 2.2.1, Aisles and position. Where exhibits are Passageways, Section 2.2.2, displayed in horizontal or inclined cases, they should 2.5.8 Courthouses, Corridors and Hallways and Section 2.2.7, Stairs and be mounted no higher than Detention Areas and Steps) 915 mm and wherever Police Stations possible, include knee space • For assembly or meeting below at 700 mm high to • Public, administrative and areas (See Section 2.5.15, holding areas of courthouses, allow a direct approach by a Meeting Rooms, Assembly person using a mobility aid police stations and related Areas and Theatres) detention areas should be (e.g., to approach book accessible to persons with • For accessible washrooms, displays or small object varying disabilities, whether changing areas and locker displays). as prisoners, members of rooms (See Section 2.3.10, • For persons with visual the public, advocates, Public Washrooms and limitations, tactile exhibits counselors, or as support Changing Rooms and should be available (e.g., staff. Section 2.3.6, Lockers and sculptural pieces), with Baggage Storage) • All court rooms and public nearby information printed areas of courthouses should • For Signage and way finding in large print text, Braille, or be fully accessible to persons (See Section 2.4.16, Signage provided on an audiotape. using mobility aids. and Way-finding)
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 93 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
• Where audio-information is • For persons who have visual 2.5.12 Hospitals and provided for persons who limitations, care should be Health Care Facilities are hard of hearing, some taken to ensure that there consideration of increased are no obstacles in the • All facilities providing health volume on personal cassettes gymnasium area that might care services to the general as well as compatibility with constitute a hazard (e.g., public or to private clients hearing aids is desirable. unprotected floor slots for should be fully accessible to Written text should also be equipment mounting, the persons with varying available. underside of bleacher areas, disabilities. signs, brackets, or equipment • All arrival and entrance areas • Lighting in exhibit and dis- protruding from the walls). play areas should be capable should be fully and (See also Section 2.6.7, autonomously accessible to of being enhanced in key Obstacles) locations for specific exhibit persons using mobility aids enjoyment by persons who and to persons with visual have visual limitations. limitations. (See Section 2.5.11 Ice-Rinks 2.1.4, Entrances) • Lighting at display cases • Ice-rinks, whether indoors as • All waiting, admission, should be designed to part of an arena, or outdoors minimize reflected glare. diagnostic, consultation and as part of a park’s winter treatment areas should be function, should be fully accessible to persons accessible to and useable 2.5.10 Gymnasium using mobility aids. by persons with varying (See also Section 2.1.9, • A gymnasium, whether disabilities. Waiting Areas and 2.3.5, part of an educational or a • All public amenities and Information Systems and recreational setting, should viewing areas should be Directories) be accessible and useable by accessible to persons who • All essential support areas persons with varying have varying disabilities disabilities. that are available to the including persons using public or clients should be • The main floor or exercise mobility aids. accessible to persons with areas of gymnasiums should • Many persons who have varying disabilities. (See be fully accessible to persons visual limitations may wish Section 2.3.5, Information using mobility aids, to attend hockey games, and Service Counters and including all related listen to the plays, and Section 2.4.10, Information changing areas, showers, enjoy the noise, smells, and Systems and Directories) washrooms, and lockers. camaraderie of the game. • All client rooms for short or (See Section 2.3.10, Public Spaces should be provided Washrooms and Changing long-term accommodation, where they can optimize this including any attached Rooms and Section 2.3.6, desire. Lockers and Baggage washrooms, clothing storage Storage) areas or lounges, should be accessible to persons using • Seating areas provided as mobility aids. (See also bleachers or galleries Section 2.1.9, Waiting overlooking the gymnasium Areas and 2.3.10, Public floor should be accessible to Washrooms and Changing persons using mobility aids. Rooms)
94 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
• Heating, ventilation and • Study tables should be • Where CD’s, taped communications systems designed to accommodate information and talking should be appropriate for persons using mobility aids, books etc. are available persons with varying with clear knee space of at to seniors, children with disabilities. (See Section least 700 mm high. disabilities, or persons with 2.4.9, Heating, Cooling and visual limitations as part Ventilation Systems) • Shelving over study carrels, of the libraries resource tables or study counters materials, a separate space • All communication systems, should be no higher than should be set aside so that such as nurse calls, 1220 mm to allow an easy materials can be audited telephones or public forward reach over the without disturbing other address systems, should working surface. (See library users. (See also be appropriate for persons Section 2.3.12, Vanities Section 2.4.5, with varying disabilities. and Work Sections) Communication Systems) (See Section 2.4.14, Public Address Systems) • Acoustic quality in library, reading and study areas should limit extraneous 2.5.13 Libraries background noise, permitting comprehension by persons • All library areas, including with limited hearing. (See checking areas, book stacks Section 2.4.1, Acoustics) and reading/teaching spaces, should be accessible to seniors and persons with varying disabilities. 1065 mm • Book return and checking MIN. area counters should be designed to be accessible to persons using mobility aids. • Book stack areas should have aisles preferably 1065 mm wide, or a minimum of 915 mm wide, 1065 mm to allow easy access and MIN. maneuverability by persons using mobility aids. (See Figure 150) 1065 mm MIN. • Lighting at book stacks should be mounted directly over the aisle space and provide a minimum of 200 lux (20 ft. candles) at normal working height (i.e., 915 mm approx.), as a benefit to seniors and others with low vision. Figure 150
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 95 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
2.5.14 Long Term Care • For interior building • For communication systems Facilities systems (See Section 2.4.1, (See Section 2.4.5, Acoustics, Section 2.4.7, Communication Systems) • Facilities (including Electrical Power, Section Retirement Houses, Homes 2.4.9, Heating, Cooling and • For signage and way finding for the Aged, Group Homes, Ventilation Systems and (See Section 2.4.16, Signage Nursing Homes or Chronic Section 2.6.5, Maintenance) and Way-finding) Care Facilities) providing • For washrooms, showers, • For exterior areas, parking, residential or long-term care entrances, walkways and to seniors, or persons with and bathing areas (See Section 2.3.10, Public gardens, patios, etc., (See physical or mental disabilities, Part 1: Section 1.2.1, should be designed to be Washrooms and Changing Rooms) Accessible Routes to fully accessible to persons Entrances, Section 1.1, with varying disabilities. • For care and treatment areas Exterior Routes, Section • While the primary (See Section 2.5.6, Clinics, 1.1.7, Paths, Sidewalks motivation is to provide a Section 2.5.12, Hospitals and and Walkways, Section 1.2.1, home-like environment for Health Care Facilities, Accessible Routes to persons in long term care Section 2.5.14, Long Term Entrances, Section 1.2.5, with enough activity and Care Facilities and Section Parking and Section 1.3.2, support space for typical 2.5.18, Seniors Housing) Outdoor Eating and programs and services, it is Entertainment Spaces: • For resident activity and Balconies and Terraces) also critical that needed recreation areas (See Section accessibility components (See Part 2: Section 2.1.1, 2.5.10, Gymnasium, Section Canopies and Weather that support reduced physical 2.5.11, Ice-Rinks, Section ‘ability’ or intellectual Protection, Section 2.1.2, 2.5.16, Recreation Facilities Doors and Doorways, competence is integrated and Section 2.5.23, as subtly as possible. Section 2.1.4, Entrances, Swimming Pools) Section 2.1.7, Thresholds • For entrances, primary • For resident dining areas and Section 2.2, Interior circulation and public (See Section 2.3.2, Door and Routes) amenities (See Section Cupboard Hardware, Section 2.3.5, Information and 2.5.3, Cafeterias, Restaurants, Service Counters, Section Dining Areas and Bars and 2.3.10, Public Washrooms 2.5.19, Residential Kitchens) and Changing Rooms, Section 2.4.6, Controls • For interior design, furniture, and Operating Mechanisms, finished, colour and texture Section 2.4.16, Signage and (See Section 2.1.6, Mats and Way-finding and Section Mat Sinkages, Section 2.3.4, 2.6.7, Obstacles) Equipment and Furniture, Section 2.6.1, Texture and • For fire and life safety Pattern, Section 2.6.2, Floor (See Section 2.4.8, Fire Surfaces/Textures, Section Emergency Systems and 2.6.3, Colour and Tone, Signals, Section 2.4.14, Section 2.6.6, Materials and Public Address Systems Finishes, Section 2.6.8, and Section Pattern and Section 2.6.9, 2.6.4, Fire and Life Safety) Glare and Light Sources)
96 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
2.5.15 Meeting Rooms, 2.5.16 Recreation Facilities • For persons with visual Assembly Areas and limitations in respect to • Recreational facilities Theaters circulation routes, signage providing programs or and obstacles, (See • Meeting rooms and assembly services to the general Section 2.2, Interior Routes, areas, whether used by the public and/or to special Section 2.4.16, Signage public at large, by tenants or groups, and clubs etc. should and Way-Finding and visitors to specific buildings, be fully accessible to persons Section 2.6.6, Materials should all be designed with various disabilities. and Finishes). to be accessible to persons • All areas and amenities • For persons with hearing with varying disabilities, should be accessible to including persons using limitations (See Section persons using mobility aids. 2.4.1, Acoustics, Section mobility aids and persons (See Part 1: Section 1.1, with sensory limitations. 2.4.5, Communication Exterior Routes and Part 2: Systems and Section 2.5.15, (See also Section 2.2.1, Section 2.1, Entrances) Aisles and Passageways and Meeting Rooms, Assembly Part 1: Section 1.3.7, Areas and Theatres). Grandstands and Viewing Areas) • Accessible seating should be 850 mm distributed and integrated MIN. throughout seating areas of assembly rooms with different vantage points 1220 mm available to all MIN. persons with disabilities. • All entertainment and EXIT EXIT assembly areas should be
able to accommodate persons DOES NOT using various mobility aids. INTERFERE WITH SEATING (See Figure 151) EGRESS • All meeting and assembly areas should be able to accommodate persons who have visual limitations. (See also Section Part 1: Section 1.3.7, Grandstands ENTRANCE ENTRANCE and Viewing Areas) EXIT EXIT
THEATRE VIEWING POSITION DOES NOT INFRINGE ON AISLE REQUIREMENTS
Figure 151
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 97 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
2.5.17 Schools and • For swimming pools (See • For exterior areas and Continuing Education Section Part 1: Section 1.3.8, amenities (See Part 1, Centres Outdoor Swimming Pools Section 1.2, Arrival and and Wading Pools and Departure Areas and Section • Educational facilities serve a Section 1.3.16, Waterfront 1.4, Outdoor Amenities). variety of age groups from Areas) (See Part 2: Section • For interior routes and pre-kindergarten children to 2.5.16, Recreation Facilities seniors. All such facilities amenities (See Part 2, and Section 2.5.23, Section 2.2, Interior Routes should be able to meet the Swimming Pools) needs of persons of all ages and Section 2.3, Interior and with varying disabilities. • For Gymnasium (See Amenities). Section 2.5.10, Gymnasium) • For exterior areas, routes, • Within individual apartment playing fields, and other • For building services and units, it is recommended that amenities, (See Section systems (See Section 2.4.1, all hallways to bedroom and 2.5.1, Arenas, Section 2.5.10, Acoustics, Section 2.4.7, bathroom doorways be a Gymnasium, Section 2.5.11, Electrical Power, Section minimum of 1065 mm Ice-Rinks, Section 2.5.16, 2.4.9, Heating, Cooling and wide to provide sufficient Recreation Facilities, Section Ventilation Systems and clearance for users with 2.5.23, Swimming Pools) Section 2.6.5, Maintenance) mobility aids (note: a minimum of 810 mm • For interior circulation and • For Signage (See Section 2.4.16, Signage and between door stops is amenities (See Section 2.1.4, recommended). Entrances, Section 2.1.7, Way-finding) Thresholds, Section 2.2, Interior Routes, Section 2.5.18 Seniors Housing 2.5.19 Residential Kitchens 2.2.2, Corridors and • Seniors housing projects • All kitchens, kitchenettes or Hallways, Section 2.2.4, counter areas used for food Elevators and Platform typically accommodate persons from ages 55 to 95 preparation should be made Lifts and Section 2.2.5, accessible to persons using Interior Ramps) and as many as 25% may have some form of physical mobility aids, with aisles • For classrooms and assembly disability. In many cases, between counters no less areas, libraries, etc. (See younger persons with than 1065 mm wide. Where Section 2.5.13, Libraries, disabilities are also part of possible, turning space for a Section 2.5.15, Meeting the specific population of wheelchair/scooter should Rooms, Assembly Areas and tenants and have traditionally also be available in dead end Theatres and Section 2.5.17, been assigned "accessible" areas. A turning space of Schools and Continuing units. However, to 1500 mm in diameter should Education Centres) accommodate the needs be provided with clear knee space below counters. • For cafeterias (See Section of all seniors who continue Suitable turning space and 2.5.3, Cafeterias, to age and may accrue knee space below counters Restaurants, Dining functional disabilities allows free movement and Areas and Bars) (particularly in those age groups over 75), it is approach by persons using wise to design the whole wheelchairs/scooters. facility to be "universally (For variations in layout, see accessible", i.e, useable Figures 152 and 153). by anyone with physical, sensory, or cognitive limitations.
98 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
• In accessible kitchens and and convection ovens are • Generally, many persons kitchenettes, all cupboards, preferred by many persons with disabilities prefer "open cabinets and pantries should with disabilities. concept" kitchens – a design be designed to be accessible that provides easier access, to persons using mobility • Additional lighting should improved lighting aids, with upper shelves no be provided over the sink, conditions and overall higher than 1370 mm from cooking and work surfaces to greater manoeuvrability, the floor for easy reach by ensure safe use of facilities especially for persons persons using mobility aids. by persons with low vision using mobility devices. (See Section 2.3.2, Door and or limited dexterity. Cupboard Hardware) • For persons using mobility • Kitchen stoves ideally should aids, consider the use of have front or side controls to side-by-side minimize burns. Burns may refrigerator/freezer units occur from reaching over hot to facilitate easier access. items or open burners. Automatic off-switches should be provided where possible, to control unattended/unused burners. • Duplex receptacles (e.g., power outlets), where mounted above counter height, should generally be 1500 mm no higher than 1065 mm from floor level. Duplex receptacles should be located so that loose electrical cords do not cause a potential tripping hazard, especially for persons with visual Figure 152 limitations. • Clear counter space, a minimum of 300 mm wide should be provided on both sides of stoves for safe operation. • Where microwave ovens are
installed, they should be 1500 mm 1500 mm located at counter height with a clear level area of counter in front, allowing easy transfer of food items. In general, larger microwave
Figure 153
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 99 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
2.5.20 Residential • Controls for bathtubs should • Faucets and controls should Bathrooms ensure that the hot water be of the "single-lever temperature in the action" handle type so that • Bathrooms, washrooms or showerhead or faucet they are easy to use by shower areas should be large does not exceed 49º C to persons with limited enough to accommodate minimize accidental strength or grasp. persons using mobility aids scalding. For faucets and or a commode chair. mirrors etc., (See Section Consideration should be 2.3.14, Washroom given to providing space for Accessories) a wheelchair accessible shower, in lieu of a standard bathtub. Where a bathtub is provided, a transfer seat, 2440 mm level with the bath rim and at least 380 mm (deep) is recommended at the end 460 mm
located opposite of the 700 mm controls. A 915 mm long horizontal grab-rail, mounted at 835 mm high on the long 1500 mm 760 mm sidewall, is recommended to MIN. provide stability in entering, exiting or standing while in 1500 mm the tub. (For variations in layout, see Section 2.3.10, Public Showers and Changing Rooms and 455 mm VARIES Figures 118, 119, 120 305 mm & 154)
860 mm • Bathtubs and showers should MIN. CLEARANCE have a non-slip finish in the DOOR standing area. Figure 154 • The preferred side grab bar is the reversed “L” shaped type. • Lighting levels in bathrooms should be evenly distributed and no less than 100 lux (10 ft. candles).
100 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
2.5.21 Residential Bedrooms • All interior routes should be • For interior lighting (See accessible to persons using Section 2.4.11, Artificial • Ensure that enough mobility aids. (See Section Lighting and Section 2.4.12, circulation space is 2.2, Interior Routes) Natural Lighting) and for available for persons using Public Telephones wheelchairs or scooters in • For information and (See Part 1: Section 1.4.6, the master bedroom, at communications services Public Telephones) doorways, at closets and (See Section 2.3.5, beside the bed, to allow Information and Service • For fire and life safety easy access and transfer. counters, Section 2.4.5, strategies, alarms, etc. (See Figure 155) Communication Systems (See Section 2.4.8, Fire and Section 2.4.10, Emergency Systems and • For hardware on doors, Information Systems Signals, Section 2.4.14, closets, and cabinetwork, and Directories) Public Address Systems and windows. (See section and 2.6.4, Fire and Life 2.1.3, Door Hardware, Locks • For restaurants, cafes and Safety) and Closers and Figures bars (See Section 2.5.3, 87 and 88) Cafeterias, Restaurants, Dining Areas and Bars)
2.5.22 Shopping Centres • For cinemas and theatres (See Section 2.5.15, Meeting and Malls Rooms, Assembly Areas and • Shopping Centers and Malls Theatres) should be designed to accommodate persons of all ages and disabilities. • For exterior areas, parking and pedestrian routes to entrances. (See Part 1: Section 1.1.6, Lay-Bys for Vehicles, Figure 11,Section 1.1.7, Paths, Sidewalks and Walkways, Figures 12 and 13, Section 1.1.8, Pedestrian Routes, Figures 14 and 15 and Section 1.2.5, Parking, Figures 25, 27 and 28) • For exterior amenities (See Part 1, Section 1.4, Outdoor Amenities) • For signage and way finding (See Section 2.4.16, Signage and Way-finding) RESIDENTIAL BEDROOMS
1525 mm
Figure 155
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 101 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
• For interior design, • For Building Systems • It should be noted that materials, finishes, colour, generally (See Section 2.4.7, where pools are to be used and texture (See Section Electrical Power, Section for special programming, 2.1.6, Mats and Mat 2.4.9, Heating, Cooling and (e.g., seniors swimming Sinkages, Section 2.3.4, Ventilation Systems and programs, mothers and Equipment and Furniture, Section 2.6.5, Maintenance) babies / learn-to-swim Section 2.6.1, Texture and programs, etc.), the ambient Pattern, Section 2.6.2, Floor • For Public Swimming temperature of the water Surfaces/Textures, Section Pools a Unisex Change should be able to be 2.6.3, Colour and Tone, room/Washroom should be increased by at least 6º C Section 2.6.6, Materials and considered so that assistance e.g. to 27°C, to improve Finishes, Section 2.6.8, can be provided when comfort levels for less Pattern and Section 2.6.9, needed, for persons of active users. Glare and Light Sources) the opposite sex. (See Figure 156) • For general maintenance of interior areas (See Section 460 mm MIN. 2.4.7, Electrical Power, 480 mm MAX. 2.4.9, Heating, Cooling and Ventilation Systems and Section 2.6.5, Maintenance) DROP DOWN SEAT 2.5.23 Swimming Pools GULLEY 900 mm • Indoor swimming pools and SIDE GRAB BAR 865 mm related amenities, whether (REVERSED "L" SHAPED PREFERRED) DOOR as part of a recreational 1880 mm RECOMMENDED complex, community centre, 1700 mm MIN.
educational facility, or as SHOWER PULL RAILS CONTROL part of a recreational area in ON DOORS 2890 mm
a residential complex, should HANDRAIL all be accessible to persons with varying disabilities.
• For general accessibility 460 mm requirements (See Figures 40 and 41) also (See Part 1, Section 1.2, Arrival and Departure Areas and NOT TO SCALE Section 1.3.8, Outdoor Figure 156 Swimming Pools and Wading Pools). • All pool area floor surfaces should be easy to clean, non-glare, non-slip and finished with a light colour finish, e.g.: matte ceramic tile.
102 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
• Ambient air temperature in 2.5.24 Theatres and • For fire and life-safety pools should generally be no Media Display Areas (See Section 2.4.8, Fire lower than 25º C and no Emergency Systems and higher than 32º C. • All theatre or assembly areas Signals, Section 2.4.14, providing live performances, Public Address Systems • Lighting over pool and deck films, music or educational and 2.6.4, Fire and Life areas, as well as in showers programming should be Safety) and changing areas, should designed to be accessible to be a minimum of 200 lux and useable by a wide range • Where multi-media or (20 ft. candles), at deck of persons, including those inter-active media or floor surface. Fixtures with varying disabilities, in a presentations are to be over pool areas should be variety of seating locations, provided, every attempt selected and positioned to and price ranges. should be made to ensure minimize reflected glare off that persons using mobility the pool surface. Fixtures • For general access, devices have access to should also be positioned for amenities, and support needed controls (See Section easy re-lamping. (See also areas (See Section 2.1.4, 2.4.6) and that persons with Section 2.6.5, Maintenance) Entrances, Section 2.1.7, sensory limitations can Thresholds, Section 2.2, receive the transmitted • Natural daylight in pool Interior Routes) information through alternate areas should be controllable modes (e.g., by both vision to minimize glare off the • For seating accommodation, equipment, and furniture and hearing, as well as pool surface, especially from through large text or Braille south and west sunlight. (See Section 2.3.4, Equipment and Furniture, material). • Acoustic quality in the pool Part 1: Section 1.3, Special • For fixed theatre seating, area should minimize echoes Areas and Features) a variety of seat sizes and unnecessary noise, as a • For general building and designs should be benefit to persons who are considered, (e.g., wider seats vision or hearing impaired. systems, heating, lighting, ventilation, controls, etc., and seats with flip up arms at • Signage in pools should be (See Section 2.4.1, the end of aisles to assist suitable for persons with low Acoustics, Section 2.4.5, persons transferring from vision. Communication Systems, their wheelchair or scooter). • Exterior patios and Section 2.4.7, Electrical landscaped areas adjacent to Power, Section 2.4.9, indoor pool areas should be Heating, Cooling and accessible to wheelchair Ventilation Systems and users. (See Part 1: Section Section 2.6.5, Maintenance) 1.3.2, Outdoor Eating and • For acoustics, Entertainment Spaces: communications systems, Balconies and Terraces) and listening devices (See Section 2.4.1, Acoustics, Section 2.4.5, Communication Systems and Section 2.4.13, Listening Devices)
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 103 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS
2.5.25 Transit Settings • For passenger queuing areas, • For Signage and way finding passenger ticketing, and (See Section 2.4.16, Signage • Transit terminals, serving information, etc. (See and Way-finding) one or more modes of transit Section 2.3.5, Information (e.g., buses and trains), and Service Counters, • For public telephones should have all levels, Section 2.4.10, Information (See Part 1: Section 1.4.6, facilities and amenities Systems and Directories and Public Telephones) accessible to persons using Section 2.4.16, Ticketing • Where train platforms or mobility aids and others Machines) other boarding platforms are with varying disabilities. • For waiting areas, seating provided, they should allow • For general accessibility and luggage holding areas safe access for persons using criteria for all exterior areas (See Section 2.3.6, Lockers mobility aids and where and amenities (See Part 1: and Baggage Storage) possible, provide level Section 1.2.2, Bus/Public access to the train or bus Transit Shelters • For boarding areas generally floor surface. and Section 1.2.3, (See Section 1.2, Arrival and • For persons who have visual Bus Stops) Departure Areas) limitations, a tactile warning • For interior routes and public • For public washrooms surface at least 610 mm deep amenities generally (See (See Section 2.3.10, Public should be provided at the Section 2.2, Interior Routes, Washrooms and Changing edge of the platform. Section 2.3, Interior Rooms) (See Part 1: Section 1.2.2, Amenities and Part 1: Bus/Public Transit Shelters • For food service areas, Section 1.4, Outdoor and Section 1.2.3, Bus Stops, vending machines, etc., Amenities) also See Figure 157) (See Section 2.3.13, • For ticketing, information, Vending Machines) or sales counter areas (See • For communications and Section 2.3.5, Information information systems (See and Service Counters, Section 2.4.2, Audible Section 2.4.10, Information Signals, Section 2.4.5, Systems and Directories and Communication Systems and Section 2.4.17, Ticketing Section 2.4.10, Information Machines) Systems and Directories)
104 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.5 SPECIAL FACILITIES AND AREAS INDOOR AREAS
• Lighting levels in all • Seating should be provided • For general safety, boarding areas should be for seniors and persons with emergency, and fire alarm at least 100 lux (10 ft. limited stamina on the systems (See Section Part 1: candles) at the platform or platform or close to the Section 1.6.10, Safety and boarding surface level. boarding area. Security and Part 2: Lighting levels in all Section 2.4.8, Fire ticketing areas or at ticketing Emergency Systems and machines should be at least Signals, Section 2.4.14, 200 lux (20 ft. candles). Public Address Systems and Section 2.6.4, Fire and Life • Warning signals, required Safety) to advise of approaching vehicles, should be both visible and audible to assist travellers with visual or hearing limitations. (See also Section 2.4.2, THE DETECTABLE WARNING SURFACE Audible Signals) SHOULD BE POSITIONED PARALLEL TO THE OPEN PLATFORM EDGE. IT SHOULD EXTEND FOR THE FULL LENGTH OF THE • Where special lifting devices PLATFORM AND IT SHOULD MAINTAIN are used, either on the A DEPTH OF 610 mm FROM THE OPEN EDGE OF THE PLATFORM. vehicle or at the boarding point, enough free space should be provided around the boarding point for waiting passengers using mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs and scooters).
Figure 157
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 105 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.6 OTHER
POLICY: (SAFETY) of light to determine where • Suitable warning textures for they are and whether hazards interior use include: raised In public buildings and are present. domes, dots or squares (e.g., particular residential and as found in some vinyl floor institutional environments coverings); deeply grooved designed for seniors or others 2.6.2 Floor concrete, terrazzo or other with disabilities, the safety of Surfaces/Textures stone like materials (e.g., residents is of particular with closely centred grooves, concern. Therefore, everything • Interior and exterior at right angles to the path of that can be done to eliminate floor/paving surfaces travel); and applied non-slip or minimize obstacles or should be of a non-slip strips (e.g., carborundum hazards to normal safe access and low-glare material. strips). and use must be considered, as well when a specific emergency • All level changes, whether at • Modern textures can also be may arise. stairs, steps, escalators or used on wall surfaces as part ramps should be marked by of the overall way-finding 2.6.1 Texture and Pattern both distinct colours/tones strategy. • People with low vision or and textural changes at the • Supplementary textural cues who are legally blind, are walking surface. Changes in can also be provided (e.g., by frequently dependent upon texture should occur, at least using different floor textures tactile and visual cues in the 915 mm, or one pace, before or materials in major and environment, both to find the actual level change. minor interior routes) as their way in complex (See also Figure 21). Note: an aid to persons who are settings, but also to be Bright (‘industrial’) yellow blind or who have visual forewarned about potential or other saturated colours limitations. hazards. Way-finding from the warm end of the strategies (e.g., signage spectrum are most visible to systems) should utilize persons with low vision. at least 70% (or greater)
contrast. Note: One CARPET VARIATION exception is the use of bright NOTE: ONLY LEVEL LOOP, DENSE CARPET WITHOUT yellow, which is acceptable UNDERLAY IS SUITABLE FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS at 40% contrast. • Persons who are blind and CUT LOOP CUT-LOOP use a cane or a dog to assist them are particularly dependent on texture at the walking surface, the acoustic quality of the space, and the availability of Braille or PLUSH LEVEL LEVEL TIP SHEAR other tactile information etc. to alert them. However, persons with visual limitations are more dependent on contrast FRIEZE MULTI-LEVEL RANDOM SHEAR and colour and the amount
Figure 158
106 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.6 OTHER INDOOR AREAS
• Clearly defined boundaries • Baseboards in 2.6.4 Fire and Life Safety of carpeting or floor tile can monochromatic • In buildings used by seniors enhance way-finding by environments should be or people with disabilities defining the junction highly contrasting (70% or (e.g., visitors, residents or between walls and higher) with wall and floor employees) it is important to floors and by indicating colours to provide needed ensure that a comprehensive doorway recesses, corridor boundary definition for evacuation plan and intersections or projecting persons with low vision. operational strategies are hazards, etc. • For seniors with vision loss, in place in case of a fire or • Where carpet is used in areas colours in the warm end of other emergency, since it is accommodating wheelchair the spectrum are easier to generally considered that such traffic a level loop pile of distinguish. Colours such as persons may be at greater non-static nylon (or better) is pastel blue or grey should be risk and may be less able recommended with a pile avoided. to autonomously evacuate height no greater than than the general public. (6mm). A glue-down (See Figures 159 & 160) installation is preferred. (See Figure 158) FIRE RATED WALLS 2.6.3 Colour and Tone SPRINKLER • For signage, the use of bright colour or highly contrasting tones is an essential part of a suitable way-finding strategy for persons with low vision, FIRE CONTAINED minimum 70% contrast TO ROOM (except where ‘industrial yellow is used) in which case 40% contrast. Colour can be used as a background for signage, located on walls at eye level. This band of FIRE RATED colour is easier to follow DOORS than monolithic wall colours and can be used as a constant A PROPERLY DESIGNATED FIRE COMPARTMENTATION OR FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM WILL CONFINE THE FIRE location for all essential signs. Figure 159 • End walls or return walls in long corridors can also be defined by the use of highly contrasting colours or tones, EXIT ESCALIER to denote a change of direction or the end STAIRS DE SORTIE of the space.
Figure 160
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 107 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.6 OTHER
• In buildings where persons
with disabilities are REFUGE AREAS WITHIN FLOOR AREA employed or are frequent visitors, a fire and life safety INOPERABLE ELEVATORS plan that will address the needs of all building users
is recommended. REFUGE AREA REFUGE AREA • All public buildings with floors above or below grade FIRE DOORS should develop a fire-safety and emergency plan, indicating in detail the preferred ‘evacuation’ or
‘holding’ area strategies CONTINUOUS FIRE SEPARATION for persons with disabilities - whether Figure 161 as employees or visitors. • Such strategies may include PRESSURIZED ELEVATOR SHAFT separating certain areas of the building, to allow for ‘horizontal exiting’ to a safe area on the same floor, or the creation of ‘safe holding areas’ in the same general area. (See Figures 161, 162 and 163) • Where safe-holding areas are provided, they should be equipped with emergency ELEVATOR REFUGE AREA lighting, a two-way Figure 162 communication system, as well as separate ventilation so that they can be used when normal building systems are shut down. Such areas need to have a minimum one-hour protective enclosure.
REFUGE AREA REFUGE AREA
Figure 163
108 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.6 OTHER INDOOR AREAS
• Where a regular population 2.6.5 Maintenance • Maintenance staff may of seniors or persons with decide to wax or seal a disabilities is present in a Despite all good intentions typically non-glare floor building (e.g., institutions, or during the design stage of surface (e.g., matte ceramic seniors residences) the fire creating fully accessible tile finish) using a high alarm system should be environments, the success of gloss polish/finish. This a 2-stage system linked the eventual project is largely unwittingly results in directly to the fire hall dependent on decisions made potential glare problems (wherever possible) to by facility managers regarding for persons with visual ensure timely fire department space utilization, security and limitations in cases where response. Alternatively, maintenance issues. surface reflects glare from direct connection to a Training for maintenance staff overhead or adjacent natural commercial security should address the following lighting sources. High gloss company should be potential barriers: finishes on some floor provided. surfaces also results in • Objects added to the potential slipping hazards • Specific strategies to provide environment, including for all users, especially early warning of emergency waste containers, recycling persons with low vision. situations may also be bins, planters, vending desirable for persons with machines, dispensers, staff • Maintenance staff may add hearing limitations, e.g., a equipment and furniture etc., runners or mats on floors in portable vibrating alarm, which can result in tripping entrances, hallways and or a flashing light at their hazards and limited corridors during winter workstation may be movement for persons who conditions, in an attempt necessary, in addition to have visual limitations, along to minimize tracking. general visible and audible paths of travel. Aisle and However, the layout may be alarms. This strategy may corridor widths can also be disorienting for persons with also be desirable in obstructed limiting the low vision and it may also accessible hotel manoeuvrability of persons inhibit movement by persons accommodation. using mobility aids (e.g., using mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs and scooters). where mats become rolled or • Since evacuation of persons bunched up accidentally). using mobility aids (e.g., • Temporary signs on stands wheelchairs/scooters) from or mounted on walls and • It is therefore recommended floors above or below grade doors can add confusion for that maintenance manuals is extremely difficult in large persons with low vision. be developed to include buildings, consideration information regarding the should be given to the Similarly: specific needs and inclusion of a fire fighter’s • Decisions on energy barriers faced by people elevator that can be operated conservation often result with disabilities. by fire department personnel in reduced lighting levels, during a fire or other potentially inhibiting the safe emergency. (See also movement through buildings Section 2.2.4, Elevators and for all users. Platform Lifts and Section 2.2.6, Safe Holding Areas)
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 109 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.6 OTHER
2.6.6 Materials and Finishes 2.6.7 Obstacles obstacles in their normal path of travel throughout a • The selection of flooring • For persons who are blind, building can constitute a materials can be critical to have low vision or use a major hazard. (See Section the safe and easy movement mobility aid, unexpected 2.6.5, Maintenance) of persons using mobility aids, amputees as well as persons with low vision. • Carpet floor finishes in paths of travel should be suitable for persons using mobility aids (e.g., low level loop construction, preferably 10 or 12 gauge, with use of non-static fibres). Carpet should be firmly glued down to the sub-floor. • Where hard, monolithic
materials are selected for 685 mm floor finishes, they should be non-slip and non-glare. (See also Section 2.6.2, Floor Surfaces/Textures and Section 2.6.9, Glare and Figure 164 Light Sources) • Where floor tiles, bricks or pavers are used internally, joints should be no wider than 6mm and placed level to prevent potential tripping hazards, especially for persons with visual limitations. • Ceramic tile used in washrooms, changing areas or on pool decks should have non-slip and non-glare finishes. • Wall surfaces in corridors, adjacent to stairs, ramps or any part of the normal path of travel should be of
non-abrasive finish. 700 mm VARIES (See Section 2.6.3, 150 mm Colour and Tone) (TYPICAL) Figure 165 Figure 166
110 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES PART 2: 2.6 OTHER INDOOR AREAS
• Ensure that all items of substantial, securely • Ensure that all essential furniture, equipment and mounted, continue to floor and occasional furniture, displays are stable and will level and are cane detectable. equipment, planters, drinking not move or tip over when (See Figure 168) fountains, counters and touched by someone vending machines do not requiring support. • Ensure that all loose wires, intrude into normal paths of rugs or any potential tripping travel. (See Part 1: Section • Ensure that all temporary hazards at the floor level are 1.4, Outdoor Amenities) or permanent waste and removed or made secure. recycling containers are located in constant locations to one side of the path of travel. • Ensure that all items of equipment (e.g., telephones, computers, video display terminals, printers and fax machines) are located to one side of the normal path of travel and are cane detectable. (See Figures 164, 165 and 166) • Ensure that all signage, signage supports, or other information strategies do not intrude into normal walking areas. (See Figure 167) • Ensure that all permanent 1100 mm or temporary barriers that Figure 167 control people’s movement (e.g., queuing lanes) are firmly mounted to the floor, and are stable for seniors or other persons who might need them for support. • Ensure that all maintenance or repair equipment (e.g., ladders and carts) is located away from normal paths of travel. 685 mm 685 mm • Ensure that all temporary MAX. MAX. barriers and hoardings, used to protect work sites or maintenance activities, are Figure 168
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES 111 PART 2: INDOOR AREAS 2.6 OTHER
• Ensure that all permanent • Direct or reflected glare off • Light fixtures should be or temporary barriers that of floor, wall or worktop selected so that no direct control people’s movement surfaces is a major problem glare is created (e.g., with (e.g., queuing lanes) are for persons with visual diffusers, lenses, or recessed firmly mounted to the floor disabilities. Therefore, every light sources). (See Section and are stable for seniors or attempt should be made 2.4.11, Artificial Light and other persons who might to select light sources, Section 2.4.12, Natural need them for support. materials, and finishes that Light) do not add to the problem. Natural daylight should be • Where surface mounted fluorescent ceiling lights 2.6.8 Pattern controlled (e.g., on west and south west exposures). are used (e.g., in corridors), • Caution is recommended in it is generally recommended the selection of heavy or • Monolithic floor surfaces that they have darkened sides distinct patterns on walls or such as stone, granite, (e.g., no wrap-around lenses floors since these can add marble or terrazzo should be should be used) and that they visual confusion to settings selected in a matte or honed are positioned at right angles for persons with low finish to minimize reflected to the path of travel. vision or for persons with glare. (See Section 2.6.2, Alternatively, they can be psychiatric disorders, if Floor Surfaces/Textures and used in coves or valance type over-used. Simple, repetitive Section 2.6.9, Glare and lighting at the sides of the and non-directional patterns Light Sources) corridor. This ensures that with low contrast are the light source is not visible • Floor finishes such as vinyl, from normal walking paths. preferred (e.g., for carpeting, quarry and glazed tile, floor tiles, wall papers etc.) mosaics or other composition • Supplementary lighting in order to produce the least materials should also be in sources can be used to amount of visual confusion. matte or satin finishes. High enhance special features at gloss finishes should be key locations (e.g., with 2.6.9 Glare and avoided at all times. upward and downward light components only). Light Sources • Wall finishes such as paint, vinyl wall coverings, stone, • High intensity light sources • (See Section 2.4.11, marble, wood, plastic such as quartz, halogen or Artificial Lighting, Section laminate etc., should be in other pin-point sources (e.g., 2.4.12, Natural Lighting and matte or satin finishes only. chandeliers) should be used Section 2.6.9, Glare and with extreme caution. Such Light Sources) • Where direct sunlight may lighting sources are generally cause glare, curtains, blinds not recommended in or sunscreens should be circulation routes, dining or used to shield natural light assembly areas because they sources. are problematic for persons with low vision and produce reflected points of glare on shiny surfaces.
112 CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDICES
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES
APPENDIX A: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The City of Toronto would like to thank the following individuals for their advice, input and participation throughout the consultation process.
City Departments Consultants Shirley Hoy, Chief Administrative Officer Pamela Cluff, Principal, Joan Anderton, Commissioner, Associated Planning Consultants Corporate Services David Chan, Architectural Technologist Paula M. Dill, Commissioner, Kevin Final, Researcher and Writer Urban Development Services Boyd Hipfner, Canadian National Institute Eric Gam, Commissioner, Community and Neighbourhood Services for the Blind (CNIB) Barry Gutteridge, Commissioner, Shane Holten, Urban Planner Works and Emergency Services Julie Holten, Social Researcher Joe Halstead, Commissioner, Chris Kenopic, Ontario Association Economic Development, Culture and Tourism for the Deaf (OAD) Joseph P. Pennachetti, Chief Financial Officer Rick Mugford, Architect and Treasurer, Finance City of Toronto Staff City of Toronto Community Advisory Committee on Disability Issues Dylan Aster, Building, Urban Development Services Councillor Joe Mihevc, Chair Jo-Anne Barnard, Human Resources, William G. Alexander Corporate Services Michele Amerie, Co-Chair Lorene Bodiam, Parks & Recreation, Carla Baudot Economic Development Culture & Tourism William A.L. Brown, O.M.C. Mike Brady, Transportation Services, Lyle L. Kersey Works and Emergency Services Janice Martin John Bryson, Technical Services, Robert Morassuti Works & Emergency Services Al Reeves, Co-Chair Grace Buttino, Policy & Development, Gerald R. Roberts Economic Development Culture & Tourism Jennifer Shin Jane Byers, Human Resources, Corporate Services Elsa Tesfay Walter W. Chandon, Emergency Medical Terri Hulett Services, Works & Emergency Services David E. Senf David Craig, Fire Services, Bernita Lee, Coordinator Works and Emergency Services Anita De Castro, Facilities and Real Estate, Corporate Services Geoff Eden, City Planning, Urban Development Services Peter Fay, Service Improvements & Innovation, Corporate Services
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDIX A: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
City of Toronto Staff (continued) Ruthanne Henry, Policy & Development, Ceta Ramkhalawansingh, Strategic & Corporate Economic Development Culture & Tourism Policy, Chief Administrator’s Office Kim Jeffreys, Human Resources, Karen Raybould, Human Resources, Corporate Services Corporate Services Linda Kelland, Facilities and Real Estate, Tim Rees, Strategic and Corporate Policy, Corporate Services Chief Administrator’s Office Sgt. Brian Keown*, Toronto Police Service Robert Stephens, City Planning, Wendy Kwong, Public Health, Urban Development Services Community & Neighbourhood Services Diane Stevenson, Policy & Development, Bernita Lee, Strategic & Corporate Policy, Economic Development Culture & Tourism Chief Administrator’s Office Harvey Tham, Financial Planning, Finance Linda E. Lee, Transportation Services, Nicolas Zala, Facilities and Real Estate, Works and Emergency Services Corporate Services Catherine Leitch, Strategic and Corporate Policy, Sandra Zavaglia, Solid Waste Management, Chief Administrator’s Office Works and Emergency Services Franco Lora, Culture, Economic Development Culture & Tourism Joanne Lynch, Building, Urban Development Services Cheryl MacDonald, Social Development & Administration, Community & Neighbourhood Services Julie Mathien, Social Development & Administration, Community & Neighbourhood Services Daniel McLaughlin, Policy & Development, Economic Development, Culture & Tourism Paul Meleta, Building, Urban Development Services Gerry Mitchell, Technical Services, Works and Emergency Services Tony Pagnanelli, Technical Services, Works & Emergency Services Ross Paterson*, Policy & Research, Urban Development Services
In Memoriam Sgt. Brian Keown Members 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 ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDIX A: ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The City of Toronto would like to thank all participants who contributed their time by providing input into the 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. 144 2) APC Inc., Richmond Hill Guidelines 3) CAN/CSA September 1990 4) CAN/CSA B651-190 5) Design for Accessibility, Sorenson 6) Guide to OBC, 1997. 7) OBC Appendices 8) Pedestrian Crosswalk Signals, 1987 9) Site Planning Design for the Elderly 10) Sports and Recreation Provisions, 1984. 11) Universal Access to Outdoor Recreation
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDIX B: DEFINITIONS
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 determine whether 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 excessive background noises.
3. Visual Disabilities: Involve complete blindness, limited or residual sight. It may involve a loss of visual clarity/acuity or a decrease 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 to remember, 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 greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. The intent of the universal design concept is to simplify life for everyone by making products, communications, and the built environment more usable by more people, while emphasizing dignity and independence by providing those features that will allow people to function in their day-to-day setting without assistance, at little or no extra cost. The Universal 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.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDIX C: LEGISLATIVE OVERVIEW
1. Ontario Building Code
The Ontario Building Code (OBC 1997) is the formal mandatory legislation governing the construction of all new buildings in Ontario. At the municipal level, the OBC requirements are administered and enforced by the Building Division of the Urban Development Services Department. The OBC is currently under review, (including Section 3.8 of the code which details barrier free design) and address accessibility under a 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 access and opportunities for people with disabilities". The ODA is designed so that municipal staff, government ministries and agencies, transportation providers, the private sector and people with disabilities can work together 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 develop formal 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 the Human Rights Code into practice by encouraging inclusive design approaches to all development projects across the City of Toronto.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDIX D: BIBLIOGRAPHY
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 Play www.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 Accessibility Plan. 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.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES APPENDIX D: BIBLIOGRAPHY
North York Interior Barrier-Free Access Working Group, Interior Barrier-Free Accessibility: Design Guideline-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 Areas www.access-board.gov/play/guide/intro.htm Thomson, Neil, Editor, Sports & Recreation Provision for Disabled People. London, The Architectural Press Ltd., 1984.
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES
CITY OF TORONTO
Mayor David Miller, Councillor John Filion, Councillor Denzil Office of the Mayor Ward 23 Willowdale Minnan-Wong, Ward 34 Don Valley East Councillor Gerry Altobello, Councillor Paula Fletcher, Ward 35 Scarborough Southwest Ward 30 Toronto-Danforth Councillor Howard Moscoe, Ward 15 Eglinton-Lawrence Councillor Brian Ashton, Councillor Rob Ford, Ward 36 Scarborough Southwest Ward 2 Etobicoke North Councillor Frances Nunziata, Ward 11 York South-Weston Councillor Maria Augimeri, Councillor Adam Giambrone, Ward 9 York Centre Ward 18 Davenport Councillor Case Ootes, Ward 29 Toronto-Danforth Councillor Bas Balkissoon, Councillor Mark Grimes, Ward 41 Scarborough-Rouge Ward 6 Etobicoke-Lakeshore Councillor Cesar Palacio, River Ward 17 Davenport Councillor Suzan Hall, Councillor Sandra Bussin, Ward 1 Etobicoke North Councillor Joe Pantalone, Ward 32 Beaches-East York Ward 19 Trinity-Spadina (South) Councillor Doug Holyday, Ward 3 Etobicoke Centre Councillor Jane Pitfield, Councillor Shelley Carroll, Ward 26 Don Valley West Ward 33 Don Valley East Councillor Clifford Jenkins, Ward 25 Don Valley West Councillor Kyle Rae, Councillor Raymond Cho, Ward 27 Toronto Ward 42 Scarborough-Rouge Councillor Norm Kelly, Centre-Rosedale River Ward 40 Scarborough-Agincourt Councillor Bill Saundercook, Councillor Olivia Chow, Councillor Peter Li Preti, Ward 13 Parkdale-High Park Ward 20 Trinity-Spadina Ward 8 York West Councillor David Shiner, Councillor Gay Cowbourne, Councillor Gloria Lindsay Luby, Ward 24 Willowdale Ward 44 Scarborough East Ward 4 Etobicoke Centre Councillor David Soknacki, Councillor Janet Davis, Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, Ward 43 Scarborough East Ward 31 Beaches-East York Ward 7 York West Councillor Karen Stintz, Councillor Glenn De Councillor Pam McConnell, Ward 16 Eglinton-Lawrence Baeremaeker, Ward 28 Toronto Centre- Ward 38 Scarborough Centre Rosedale Councillor Michael Thompson, Ward 37 Scarborough Centre Councillor Michael Del Grande, Councillor Joe Mihevc, Ward 39 Scarborough-Agincourt Ward 21 St. Paul’s West Councillor Michael Walker, Ward 22 St. Paul’s Councillor Frank Di Giorgio, Councillor Peter Milczyn, Ward 12 York South-Weston Ward 5 Etobicoke-Lakeshore Councillor Sylvia Watson, Ward 14 Parkdale-High Park Councillor Mike Feldman, Ward 10 York Centre
CITY OF TORONTO ACCESSIBILITY DESIGN GUIDELINES