When the Disability Discrimination Act came out in 1995 there were no smartphones or applications (apps) and digital technology was in its infancy. Fast forward almost 20 years and digital has replaced ‘analogue’ This is something that access auditors have to keep abreast of, says Centre for Accessible Environments Associate Consultant Ron Koorm.
The exponential rise of apps on smartphones and tablets means that many disabled and older people can view or communicate with an organisation before they arrive at a building to find out about access and the facilities available.
This has many advantages for how they plan their journey and access the site, but not all such systems are accessible to everyone.
Touch screens are of no use to a disabled person with no, or little hand movement. And, even those with hand movement capability can become frustrated when the touch-screen does not operate as intended. Voice control might be a better solution.
Examples of technology within buildings include:
- Lighting controls, for level, temperature, and energy saving using infra-red sensors
- Security access controls with interactive controls at entrances, exits, swipe systems
- Lift-programming based on the footfall of passengers and floor-access priority.
- Temperature and humidity control
- Information boards, which may be interactive.
- Wayfinding features that incorporate digital technology
- Computer terminals/tablets for engaging with various induction courses, exams
- Alert/alarm systems for emergency situations such as fire and means of escape
- On-site transportation systems with robotic self-driving pods as used at airports
- Automated ‘smart’ parking systems in garages and car parks.
Wayfinding and communication
Digital wayfinding features are becoming more common in, and around, larger buildings and sites.
These can sometimes track a person and advise them where they are on the large site; a sort of sophisticated Satnav. TFL has trialed such systems in its tube stations for blind and partially-sighted people.
In a similar way, smart caption glasses offer an innovative way for D/deaf and hard-of-hearing people to experience theatre by showing dialogue projected in the glasses.
They are currently being used at the National Theatre in London.
Maintenance & system failures
All of these digital systems rely on regular management to monitor and maintain the systems in operation. If they fail, they need a ‘Plan B’ fall-back position, which needs to be quickly communicated to staff, visitors, and customers.
So who assesses their accessibility and ease of use for disabled and older people?
An access auditor will consider access and inclusion of buildings, but in a typical access audit, they will spend a limited amount of time reviewing technology within the building as they may assess the whole site or the relevant part of the site being audited.
Is BS8300 enough?
The BS8300 British Code of Practice is useful for the auditor for best practice guidance, but somewhat behind the exponential expansion of digital systems in, and around, buildings and accessibility.
The reality is, that – to stay current and abreast of technological advances – auditors need to keep up Continuing Professional Development to enhance their knowledge over their career. It is important they keep up to date through training or webinars through professional bodies or organisations, for example, the RNIB offers free training on the use of technology.
What may be needed in the near future, is a separate technical standard – which covers building systems digital systems. As systems may require considerable resources and expertise to evaluate, it is definitely something to consider.
training for auditors and sector professionals, as well as their consultancy work with clients.