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Accessibility Guide Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Occupational Health & Safety Act Ontario Human Rights Code
Removing Barriers, Improving Safety! Men
Fire Extinguisher
First Aid
Braille and Tactile Accessibility Signs Fire Code Signs Safety Signs and Symbols Egress Signs - Photoluminescent New ISO Safety Signs Traffic Signs
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Accessibility Guide Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Removing Barriers, Improving Safety!
Guide to Accessibility Signs The Laws! With the passage of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) 2005, and the recent ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, accessibility issues are now governed by complementary aspects of the Ontario Human Rights Code, the AODA, The Ontario Building Code, and The Ontario Fire Code. Although the AODA provisions have a phased-in timetable for implementation, the Human Rights Code has primacy over the AODA, Fire Code and Building Code and the OHRC has made it clear that services and facilities must be built or adapted to accommodate individuals with disabilities in a way that promotes their integration and full participation. Failure to provide for accessibility can result in a human rights complaint. This applies to new construction, renovations and existing buildings. Unfortunately, many businesses and property owners may be under the incorrect impression that by complying with the Fire Code and Building Code they are meeting all of their legal obligations. This has been clearly rejected as a defense to a complaint of discrimination under The Ontario Human Rights Code. There is some confusion caused by the discrepancies between these laws and The Ontario Human Rights Code. In fact by following only the Building Code and the Fire Code and not taking into account accessibility requirements, it may have the unintended effect of reinforcing barriers against persons with disabilities. What is Accessibility? Accessibility is most often associated with people with disabilities, ironically it is the disabled who are most often excluded or overlooked when facilities are designed. Equal access and treatment for communication, transportation, education, employment and the built environment for all people regardless of age, or disability is what is required. When do I have to comply? NOW! Although the AODA has a phased-in timetable The Ontario Human Rights Code has primacy and the code clearly requires immediate barrier removal. The UN Convention on the rights of Persons with Disabilities and The Supreme Court of Canada has made it clear that society must be designed to include all people. Are there Penalties? The AODA has penalties of up to a maximum of $50,000 per day including officers and directors of a corporation. Ultimately it is more effective to identify and remove barriers voluntarily. Compliance may avoid complaints under the Code, as well as save the time and expense needed to defend against them. How do I comply? Signage is an important and essential element to help all people safely navigate a building or its surroundings. When properly designed and installed it can significantly reduce barriers and make facilities safer for all who use them regardless of age, disability or language. Tactile and braille signs are required to identify permanent rooms, means of egress, lockers, directional signs, information signs, regulatory and safety signs, washrooms, entrances, exits, elevators and must be accompanied with a pictogram consistent with international standards. Signaids commitment to professionally designed products merges the principles of Universal Design and Internationally recognized design elements to help ensure you achieve your accessibility responsibilities. Signaids - leading the way by removing barriers and improving safety.
This information is presented as an informational summary only. We cannot assume liability for errors, omissions, or any damages resulting from use or interpretation of this material. For more information please refer to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act at www.accesson.ca
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Accessbility • Information • Direction • Safety
Tactile & Visual Characters
Font Style • Characters must be of a sans serif font style, characters cannot be italic, oblique, script, highly decorative, or of other unusual forms. • Characters should be upper & lower case
Character Height • Minimum character height for tactile text: 16mm (5/8") • Maximum character height for tactile text: 50mm (2") • Minimum character height for visual text: 25mm (1") 50mm (2”)
Text limitations may exist due to minimum and maximum character height requirements per individual.
25mm (1”)
16mm (5/8”) Actual Size
Actual Size
Actual Size
Width-to-Height Ratio Between 3:5 and 1:1 Stroke-to-Height Ratio Between 1:5 and 1:10 Characters must not Characters must not appear too narrow appear too wide
Characters must not Characters must not appear too thin appear too thick
Pictogram (Symbol) Signs • Must be accompanied by an equivalent visual and tactile verbal description, placed directly below the pictogram. • Border dimension of the area containing the symbol must have a minimum height of 152mm (6”). No logos, text, or other elements are allowed within this 152mm (6”) field.
152mm Symbol must have a (6”) minimum field height of 152mm (6”)
Restroom
Verbal description directly below the symbol Grade 1 Braille
Pictogram and text are to be tactile min 0.8mm
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Character Height Height and viewing distance for visual text
Minimum Character Height (mm)
Maximum Viewing Distance (mm) 6000 (236”) 4600 (181”) 2500 (98”) 2300 (91”) 1500 (59”) 750 (30”)
200 (8”) 150 (6”) 100 (4”) 75 (3”) 50 (2”) 25 (1”)
Raised Characters & Braille • Tactile characters must be raised at least 0.8mm (0.03”) above the surface. be sans serif font, accompanied by uncontracted (Grade 1) braille. 0.8mm
•
Finish & Contrast • Characters and background must have an eggshell, matte, or non-glare finish. For easy readability avoid signs with a shiny or glossy finish including certain types of glass, metal and stone finishes.
• To increase legibility for persons with impaired vision, text must contrast with the background by a minimum of 70%.
Accessible Parking • 5 % of total parking spaces shall be accessible.
• Accessible parking spaces must be designated as reserved by a sign showing the symbol of accessibility. • The sign must be mounted vertically on a post that is colour contrasted with the surrounding and installed at a height of 1500mm (59”) to 2500mm (98.5”) from the ground. All buildings, for which parking is provided, shall provide accessible parking spaces
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• Both type “A” 4600mm (181”) and type “B” 2400mm (94.5”) wide spaces must be provided.
BY PERMIT ONLY
300 x 450 mm x 1.6mm minimum size
Leading the Way
Accessbility • Information • Direction • Safety
Mounting Location & Height An easy rule of thumb to remember is: Wherever there is a door in a publicly accessible area, an accessible sign is required to identify the room or space.
Wall Mounted Signs • Do not mount the sign on the door! Permanent identification of rooms and spaces shall be located 1200mm (47”) above the floor or ground surface to the centre of the sign. • Signs located near a door must have a clear wall area of at least 75mm (3”) wide and where possible have the leading verticle edge 140 -160 mm (5.5” - 6.25”) from the edge of the door frame.
Perpendicular & Ceiling Mounted Signs • Signs that project from the wall (perpendicular signs) or ceiling must have a clearance of 2100 mm (83”) from the finished floor to the bottom of the sign. Signs should not reduce headroom below the 2100 mm (83”) mark including parking garages.
120-160 mm
1400 mm
1400 mm 1200 mm
1200 mm
2100 mm (83”)
Floor Space • It is important to remember to allow a minimum 457mm (18”) of clear floor space below the sign and free of the swing of the door. Do not place objects like planters or chairs beneath the sign which could obstruct a visually impaired persons ability to access the sign.
457mm (18”)
Clear floor space 457mm (18”) m
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New Integrated Accessibility Standards became Law July 1, 2011 The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005 enacted The Integrated Accessibility Standards which became law on July 1, 2011. The purpose of this regulation is to establish the accessibility standards for information, communications, employment and transportation. Included in this law are requirements that “Safety Information” be available in accessible formats. Safety Information would include, Egress and Floor Number/ Stairshaft signs, Fire Safety Equipment signs, Occupational Health and Safety signs and Information, Safety Plans and all Safety Information that is made available to the general public and employees. Compliance by January 1, 2012. The following Integrated Accessibility Standards are required to be included when planing or installing public safety information: Definitions: Accessible formats - may include, but are not limited to, large print, recorded audio and electronic formats, braille and other formats usable by persons with disabilities. Information - includes data facts and knowledge that exists in any format, including text, audio, digital or images, and that convey’s information Purpose and application: 1(2) The requirements in the standards set out in this Regulation are not a replacement or a substitution for the requirements established under the Human Rights Code nor do the standards limit any obligations owed to a persons with disabilities under any other legislation. 1(3) Except as otherwise provided in this Regulation, this Regulation applies to the Government of Ontario, The legislative Assembly, every designated public sector organization and to every other person or organization that provides goods, services or facilities to the public or other third parties and that has at least one employee in Ontario. Procuring or acquiring goods, services or facilities 5(1) The Government of Ontario, Legislative Assembly and designated public sector organizations shall incorporate accessibility criteria and features when procuring or acquiring goods, services or facilities, except where it is not practicable to do so. Emergency procedure, plans or public safety information 13(1) In addition to its obligations under section 12, if an obligated organization prepares emergency procedures, plans or public safety information and makes the information available to the public, the obligated organization shall provide the information in an accessible format or with appropriate communication supports, as soon as practicable, upon request. 13(2) Obligated organizations that prepare emergency procedures, plans or public safety information and make the information available to the public shall meet the requirements of this section by January 1, 2012. Conflicts The AODA also recognizes there may be conflict in complying with different laws. The law offering the highest level of safety and accessibility for persons with disabilities prevails (2005.c11.s.38). By only complying with the building code or fire code and not considering your accessibility obligations under the AODA and the Human Rights Code could result in fines or charges even though you met all requirements under the building code and fire code. To avoid conflicts design inclusively Often what is required by the various codes is a minimum standard and does not outline how to achieve compliance across multiple standards. When you design inclusively it will exceed the minimum standard and avoid conflicts. By considering peoples diversity along with legislated requirements, inclusive design provides an environment which addresses a wide spectrum of needs. In this way it can break down barriers and remove exclusion allowing the widest group of people to have an active part.
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Accessbility • Information • Direction • Safety
Accessibility is Common Sense
Old Format
Accessible
Placing Egress sign(s) above the door does not allow people with low or no vision the ability to receive the necessary information they need to exit a building safely.
Braille and Tactile signs which use internationally recognised pictogram symbols greatly expand the ability to properly display safety information to a greater amount of people.
Egress sign is in English text, and 1 in 7 adults in Canada cannot read English. Placing the sign above the door can obscure the sign from view if the corridor is filled with smoke. Children, Immigrants and people with low or no vision could have a difficult time understanding where the exit is. This represents 1/3 of the population.
Tel: 905.521.8360 Fax: 905.574.7577
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Placed consistently on the latch side of a doorway reinforces continuety of information. Children can easily identify symbols and colour meanings. Pictograms can be identified without the need for text, making them understandable to our diverse ethnic population.
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Accessible Egress Signs Egress route signs should be installed in conspicuous locations along the escape route.1.2m above grade adjacent to the door handle side of the exit door. Priority given to the shortest possible route from any point. They are also required at every decision making point indicating;
120-160 mm 1400 mm
1400 mm
Le ft
E X IT L EFT
forward forward
2100 mm (83 in) 1200 mm
1200 mm
• A change of level • A change of direction • An exit door
Tactile text and pictogram
Tactile signs placed at decision making points 1200mm high indicating the direction of Egress
Photoluminescent background Grade 1 Braille
Exit Up Right EXIT UP RIGHT
Tactile signs are to be used together with the fire code EXIT sign. You must use both, not one or the other.
Egress Route Signs
Exit Up
Exit Forward Exit Forward
Exit Up
8200 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
Exit Up
8203 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
Exit Down
8201 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
Exit Forward
8204 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
Exit Down
8202 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
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8205 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
Exit Right
Exit Left
Exit Right
Exit Left
8206 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
8209 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
Exit Down Left
Exit Down Right 8207 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
8210 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
Exit Up Left
Exit Up Right 8208 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
8211 - (330 mm x 248 mm)
No Exit No Exit
8212 - (185 mm x 240 mm)
No Roof Access 8213 - (185 mm x 240 mm)
No Exit Below This Floor 8214 - (265 mm x 290mm)
Leading the Way
Accessbility • Information • Direction • Safety
Universal Design ISO graphic symbols have been tested and are being implemented in countries around the world.
Obsolete Non-Accessible Design
Accessible Design
• Vertical text is difficult to read • 1 in 7 adults in Canada cannot read English • Does not follow International Standards • No pictogram • Text is not large enough to be read from a distance • CSA standard warns that vertical text should be avoided
• Internationally recognized pictogram • Does not require the use of text for translation • Children can easily identify the symbol • Symbol can be made tactile and include braille • Easily identifiable by people with low vision • Clearly legible from a distance • High contrast image on background
Accessible Floor Number & Stairshaft sign With some minor adjustments it is possible to work within the parameters of all the standards
Sign Regulations: Ontario Building Code 3.4.6.18 National Building Code 3.4.6.19 Ontario Fire Code 9.6.3.6(2)
Accessible Floor Numbering and Stairwell Shaft Designation Sign
Purpose: To avoid confusion and help orient people when referring to a particular exit stairway during an emergency. Throughout the building , every stairway at each floor level, including the basement must be clearly identified
Sign Specifications • The number or letter must be a minimum 60 mm high • Arabic Numeral designating the floor number • Raised approximately 0.7mm above the surface • Designation assigned to each exit stairway to be shown as an upper case letter • Be contrasting in colour with the surface to which they are applied.
2B
Wall surface Min.60mm
2010 NBC - 3.4.6.19 2005 OBC - 3.4.6.18 2005 AODA IAS 1.2,5,12,13 Ontario Human Rights Code
144mm 5.75”
1H
Min. 10mm
Min. 60mm 184mm 7.35” Min. 10mm 25mm Min. 10mm
Text raised min. 0.7mm above surface
25mm Min. 10mm Grade 1 Braille Min. 10mm
Sign substrate
Drawing 1: Floor number and stair shaft identification sign as per Building Code specifications, however not accessible.
All text is tactile 0.8mm Photo luminescent sub surface TM
Removing Barriers, Improving Safety!
Safety Sign Colours and Information Symbol based information signs have been used along highways, in airports and within all major travel hubs to indicate food, fuel, lodging and services, eliminating confusion by transcending language barriers. Once learned the symbol based approach to communicating, information has a multitude of positive attributes: efficient, fast, memorable, removes language barriers, overcomes illiteracy, and attention getting. The European Union, China, Russia, Great Britain, Portugal, Japan, United States, Austria, and more countries around the world have adopted this symbol based safety communication system having a global impact. Wherever you go in the world you will see the same language of graphical symbol based safety and information signs, eliminating confusion and enhancing safety. The system has been developed, tested and is continually being improved by the ISO/TC 145. Those responsible for safety in Canada need only to be part of the process, through the consistent and uniform application of common safety sign design principles that utilize the new language of safety symbols and colours, Canadians of all ages and abilities will be better able to recognize and follow the information provided by these sign systems. There is no increased cost to implement the new system as it costs the same to produce a well designed sign as it does to produce an outdated one. The savings and benefits of course will be realized through less injured workers and lives saved. The recently Ratified UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Accessibility for Ontarions with Disabilities act both outline the requirement for accessible communication using the principles of Universal Design and universally acceptable pictograms to remove communication barriers. By adopting these ISO standards employers and facility operators will be compliant with the AODA, CRPD, NBC, OHS, and the NFC and maintain the extremely important consistency and uniformity outlined in these Canadian standards. The intent is to simplify life for everyone by making facilities safer and usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible.
Safety Signs are Categorized According to Their Function as Follows:
Safety Colour & meaning Green
Safe Condition Means of Escape Safety Equipment
Red
Yellow
Fire Safety
Hazard alert or Warning
Red
Prohibition
Blue
Mandatory action
Assembly point
Fire hose
Fall hazard
No digging
Wear eye & ear protection
Stretcher
Fire alarm
Entrapment hazard
Do not Enter
Wear foot protection
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Accessbility • Information • Direction • Safety
Workplace Safety Signs To meet the current international and domestic standards a product safety label or facility sign should communicate the following four elements: • The nature of the hazard (type of shock, cut, burn etc) • The consequence of interaction with the hazard • How to avoid the hazard • The seriousness level of the hazard Safety signs are intentionally similar to safety labels to promote standardization and to establish a uniform visual system of identification related to potential hazards in the environment. When using internationally recognized pictograms the signs ability to relay the message increases significantly even without the ability to read English. Signal word: indicates the seriousness of the hazard
NO SMOKING Obsolete
Identification of the hazard
Fire Hazard No smoking or open flames within 10ft of fuelling station
Safety measures to take
New ISO format
Signal words
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided will result in death or serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the most extreme situations.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. Hazards identified by the signal word WARNING present a lesser degree of risk or injury than those identified by the signal word DANGER. CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices, associated with events that could lead to personal injury. NOTICE: Indicates a statement of company policy directly or indirectly related to the safety of personnel or protection of property. This signal word should not be associated directly with hazardous situations and shall not be used in place of danger, warning or caution. The Safety Alert Symbol is the triangle with an exclamation mark that is used next to the signal word. This symbol indicates that a possible personal(human) injury hazard exists.
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Leading the Way 480 Barton Street East Hamilton Ontario L8L 2Y8 Tel: 905.521.8360 Fax: 905.574.7577
[email protected] www.signaids.com
The information in this booklet is presented as an informational summary only. We cannot assume liability for errors, omissions, or any damages resulting from use or interpretation of this material. For more information please refer to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act at: www.accesson.ca
