FEATURE
NAVIGATING ACCESSIBILITYCHALLENGES
Those with mobility impairments are faced with the harsh reality of many academic institutions not being seamlessly accessible for everyone on a daily basis – but it doesn’t have to be this way, says Evaccess.
Imagine a campus that embodies the pinnacle of inclusivity, where every building and classroom is seamlessly accessible to everyone, lifts are unfailingly operational, and alternative solutions like stair climbers are a standard backup, ready for immediate use.
Unfortunately, this ideal scenario remains just that—a hopeful ideal for many.
The current state of accessibility As new students receive their acceptance letters, full of excitement and anticipation for their future academic careers, they are often met with challenges that can dampen this enthusiasm. Upon arrival, while many students are navigating their new surroundings and meeting potential lifelong friends, those with mobility impairments are faced with a harsh reality.
Confronting accessibility barriers Consider a typical day disrupted by an out-of-service lift—a minor setback for most, but a significant barrier for students who rely on these lifts for access to their education and living spaces. This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a stark reminder of the accessibility gaps that still exist.
Emergency and daily accessibility needs In situations where lifts are non-operational, or absent entirely and the building only has stairs, the need for well-thought-out emergency and daily access plans becomes apparent.
Indeed, in thousands of buildings, just a few steps can render the entire facility inaccessible to many people with mobility issues, highlighting the ongoing challenge of ensuring equal access for all individuals.
Educational institutions need to commit to ensuring all facilities are accessible daily, not just in emergencies.
Effective plans for both regular access and emergency evacuations are crucial, which includes:
Availability of appropriate aids: Schools and universities must equip their buildings with reliable stair climbers and evacuation chairs that are ready for use at any moment. These aids should be versatile enough to accommodate the varied needs of all students, including those who rely on wheelchairs.
Regular training and drills: Regular training sessions for staff and drills for students ensure that everyone knows how to use these devices safely and efficiently.
Right equipment for safe evacuation The right equipment is key to a dignified and safe evacuation process, particularly for those who cannot use stairs:
Tailored solutions: Evacuation equipment must be specifically suited to the needs of individuals. For wheelchair users, the ideal scenario is an evacuation device that allows them to evacuate in their own wheelchair, thereby avoiding the need to transfer to another seat and leaving their wheelchair behind.
Integrated evacuation plans: It is crucial to integrate these evacuation strategies into the general safety protocols of the institution, ensuring they are a standard part of emergency procedures.
52 | TOMORROW’S FM
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