Beautiful Universal Design Book Excerpts

Window Types and Treatments for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T17:48:00Z

Window Types
Both the design of the window and the location of the controls can improve access for all. Casement, sliding, hopper, or awning windows with controls on the bottom are easier to reach by adults of shorter stature, children, and people in wheelchairs. Make sure latches can be operated with a closed fist and corners of sills are rounded to prevent injury.

Double-hung windows can drop unexpectedly, and are difficult for everyone to open. Their latches are often too high to be reached by adults of shorter stature, children, or people in wheelchairs. Although emergency exit is not possible through an awning window, this design is easier to reach and open than a double-hung installation. An awning window can also be installed inside an existing double-hung window. Awning windows, casements and horizontal pivot sashes are easier to clean than sliding or double hung windows.

Many crank-type casement windows are also easier to use than sliders, although a slider with ball bearings may also be easy to operate. A longer crank or lever arm multiplies the applied force. Place levers so that they can be operated with the strongest hand for greater power. From a wheelchair, space for a side approach may necessary.

Although casement windows with levers or push rods may require more force to open, but they do not require as large a range of motion as do horizontal sliders or pivoting sashes. A crank-type control can also be added to double-hung windows. A power window offers the easiest access, but it must have a "break out" feature in case of power failure. The force required should be no more than 5 pounds of force (lbf), but in no case can it be more than 15 lbf. The window lock must be installed within easy reach of adults of shorter stature, children and people in wheelchairs.

A sliding window panel or shutter on a track may be easier to operate from a wheelchair than a hinged panel. The top panel of a double-hung shutter is often higher than 4 ft a.f.f. and not reachable by adults of shorter stature, children, and people in wheelchairs. For safety, choose windows and shutters that won't drop unintentionally or swing in the wind. Keep the sill height at or below 2 ft a.f.f. if the window could be used for an emergency egress.

People with limited circulation often need higher ambient temperatures, children, adults of shorter stature, and people in wheelchairs are in the lower, often colder, part of a room. For these people, heat loss and solar gain become critical issues. Create an overhang to reduce solar gain in hot climates, or raise the sill height and reduce the header or window height. Double-glazed sliding windows conserve energy but may be too heavy for many people to operate. Manually operated push button windows are available with a vertical control to adjust the window opening.

For people who have an increased need for security, consider using bay or bow windows, which offer a more complete view of the surroundings. They also allow more light into a room.

Glass windows can be more easily broken than plastic but will not typically provide intruder protection. Use tempered glass or Lexan in low-level windows in case of a fall. Wired glass can also be used but has a more institutional appearance and is more dangerous when cracked. Heavy-duty plastic windows with locking devices are strong and resistant to force. Locate the lock as far away from the glass or plastic as possible. Look for windows with pins or bars that insert into the frame to prevent the window from opening even if the lock has been breached.

Window Treatments
Both the type of window treatments and the location of the installation need to be considered for access by adults of shorter stature, children and wheelchair users. Treatments mounted within the window frame block some of the light and view but free extra wall space for storage within reach. If drapery is stacked outside of the window frame, it will consume wall space of approximately 1/3 of the window width.

Sheer window treatments will diffuse sunlight and prevent glare. Direct sunlight may "dazzle" and cause temporary blindness. Lip reading is also difficult when the speaker is standing in front of a bright window.

Many window treatments that insulate the space from temperature changes will also insulate the interior from exterior noise. Consider heavy draperies with a separate liner, or heavy roman shades that seal around the perimeter of the window. These soft surfaces also absorb the ambient noise generated within the room while preventing noise from being transmitted from the outside.

Make sure cords on roller shades and wands on blinds are long enough to be reached by children, adults of shorter stature and people in wheelchairs. Wall-mount cords on blinds and draperies to keep them handy and within reach. Add beads to wall-mounted cords to improve grip strength. Do not mount cords over counters, especially in corners where they would be difficult to reach.

Electric drapery rod controls or wall-mounted drapery cords require less manual dexterity. Blinds and shades can also be operated electrically by switch or remote control. The trade-off is that any electrical device will require additional maintenance.

Many people require extra time to respond to a fire. Flame-retardant fabrics are a logical choice for window treatments. Modacrylic or fire-resistant polyester fabrics drape well but cannot be laundered in hot water. Polyester has the added disadvantages of pilling, staining, and collecting static electricity. Although fiberglass is flameproof, it does not drape well and can cause skin irritations.

For people who spend some daylight hours in bed, use a reflective blackout lining to darken the room for sleeping. It will reflect heat during the day and serve as a barrier to both air and moisture while protecting draperies from sun damage.

Many people cannot tolerate extremes of heat and cold. Reduce high heating and cooling costs with the right choices in window treatments. Exterior shades or awnings give the most effective protection from extremes in heat. Draperies, on the other hand, transfer less heat to the room than interior blinds or shades (1). Insulating draperies should be installed within ½ in of the floor and ceiling or protected by a cornice for good thermal control. Heat rises behind shorter draperies, causing convection currents that actually cool the space in winter, and heat it in summer.

Drapery accessories can also improve energy efficiency. For example, draperies can be sealed to the wall with tacks, magnetic tape, Velcro, or moldings to reduce heat loss and gain. With fabrics that adhere to Velcro, the overlap in the center can be sealed with a Velcro strip that is hidden from view. Light-colored linings reflect solar energy and keep rooms cooler, while darker colors absorb the heat.

Insulated shades are available that seal the window for maximum control. They completely block out light and view, however, and are not appropriate for daytime light control. Solar shades allow light and view but are not as effective as shades that seal.

Specify shades that overlap the window on all sides to minimize heat and light leaks. Existing inside-mounted shades and draperies can be covered with a lambrequin, which controls light leaks and offers thermal protection.
Many people have very limited time and energy, and window maintenance becomes a critical factor. Draperies require a special heading to be machine washable. A washable snap-tape system can be used so that drapery pins will not have to be removed and replaced. Vertical louvers on shutters and blinds are easy to maintain.

Horizontal louvers may be dust traps and cause problems for people with allergies unless they are installed between panes of thermal glass. With fabric-filled shutters, fabric should be removable for maintenance. Fabric on padded cornices can be installed with snap tape or Velcro for easy removal and cleaning.

Note: a.f.f = above finished floor

References
1. Walter B. Kleeman, The Challenge of Interior Design. (Boston: CBI Publishing, 1981), 192.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Washers, Dryers, and Utility Spaces for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T17:40:00Z

If ambient noise is not a problem, save needless trips to the hamper by placing the washer and dryer in the bathroom. The bathroom lavatory can be used for touch-ups and the counter for clothes sorting. Install an ironing board that swivels out from under the counter, drops down from the wall, or pulls out of a drawer. Portable ironing boards are awkward for most people to set up, and they are bulky to store.

Most children, wheelchair users, and adults of shorter stature cannot reach the bottom of a top-loading washer. The most universal solution is one front-loading machine which serves as both the washer and the dryer. Front-loading machines improve reach and also make it easier to lift wet and heavy clothes. Side-hinged doors allow a closer approach for a seated user than bottom-hinged doors. Choose appliances with doors mounted 15 to 34 in a.f.f.

An existing top-loading washer can be recessed in the floor to improve reach. Be sure to install a drain in the recessed area, because an overflow can harm the motor. A stacking washer and dryer may be especially helpful for users who have difficulty bending.

If small items are still out of reach, wash them in a zippered mesh bag that can be lifted out of the washer or dryer with tongs. A retractable clothesline or wall-mounted hanger over the bathtub is also helpful in handling clothes, and a pull-out basket under a counter to be used as a hamper.

Specify a dryer with the lint filter on the side or front, not in back. Look for models with the controls on the front as well. Touch controls are easier to use but may be too accessible to children. Raised labels can be used on controls marking the start of each cycle. Some manufacturers have control covers in Braille or large lettering. Most washers and dryers are also equipped with bells or buzzers which serve to redundantly cue the completion of the cycle.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Toilets, Lavatories, and Faucets for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T17:32:00Z

Toilets
The design of the toilet, the height of the installation, and the approach must all be considered for use with mobility aids. The toilet can be approached in several different ways. In a residence or health care facility, the user may first transfer into a shower wheelchair, which can roll over the toilet. Alternately, the individual may choose to transfer directly from their wheelchair to the front or side of the toilet.

Elongated toilets are easier to use when transferring or aligning with the shower wheelchair. Choose a toilet seat adjustable to wheelchair height for adults and children (11 to 19 in a.f.f.). The lower height range may also be necessary to allow clearance when using a shower wheelchair. An existing toilet seat can always be replaced by an elevated seat if necessary.

For bowel and bladder care, specify a lower toilet with a higher seat, leaving a gap between the two. It may be necessary to reach into this gap for digital manipulation or to empty a leg bag. Specify a seat with an opening in the front. The seat must be firmly attached for stability when transferring. The seat must not be sprung to return to a lifted position, but it should remain up independently when raised. Men with hemiplegia or one hand do not have a free hand to hold up the toilet seat while using the toilet. A flat or padded lid is more comfortable to lean against than one that is crowned or dished.

Most toilets are too high to easily empty a leg bag. The lip of the toilet needs to be below the level of the drainage tube and the leg may have to be elevated to this level to empty the bag. Wall-mounted toilets can be installed at the proper height and are easier to clean since they have no base. The clearance below also provides extra floor space for wheelchair footrests.

For ease of maintenance, the toilet could be installed in the shower and used as a shower seat in some installations. The toilet seat must be padded or non-slip, and a bench-type seat eases transfer. A toilet in the shower will also simplify clean-up after a bowel and bladder program. Plan the lavatory and mirror outside this area to keep the mirror from fogging.

One toilet model uses warm water for washing and warm air for drying rather than toilet tissue. This type is especially helpful for people who find it difficult to manipulate tissue. A portable bidet is also available.

A wall-mounted toilet can be installed as high as necessary for people who have trouble sitting and rising. With a high toilet, a low stool may be required for the bowel program, elevating the feet to facilitate elimination.

Make sure the stop valve (or cutoff valve) on the toilet is easy to use and within reach. The flushing lever must also be on the approach side.1 A flush valve in the center of the tank is harder to reach but more neutrally handed.

Flush valves in back of the toilet can be uncomfortable for people who lean back for balance unless a toilet seat lid is provided. All controls must require less than 5 lbf. for operation; a toilet flush lever extension may be needed. A more universal design is a sensor for automatic flushing.

For a quieter water flow, specify pipes with as large a cross section as possible, and install low-pressure cisterns instead of high-pressure heads. Quieter toilet rooms serve people with a wide range of hearing abilities. People with speech differences who need to be clearly heard and people with reduced vision who depend more on their sense of hearing also appreciate lower ambient noise levels.

Toilet accessories
A transfer board may help in sliding from a wheelchair onto a toilet. Select a toilet seat with a wide bench that is easier to grasp when transferring.

If a seat with arms is needed for support, make sure the arms are adjustable to the most comfortable height. Arms that extend to the floor are more stable than arms that rest on the toilet bowl.

A tissue dispenser must be at least 19 in a.f.f. and yet low enough so that grab bars do not interfere with its use. It must be installed 7 to 9 in in front of the toilet. The toilet tissue holder must permit continuous paper flow and be usable with one hand. Dispensers must be avoided that might require users to reach into a hole to initiate paper flow, and no dispenser should have a sharp or serrated edge. The dispenser should be recessed, if possible, so it will not interfere with use of a mobility aid. Consider two tissue dispensers for a constant supply, with one at a lower height for children (2 to 6 in above the toilet seat).

Lavatories
The type of lavatory, the location, and the accessories are all important factors in access. Lavatories with pedestals to the floor can be used, in some cases, with wheelchair footrests spread apart, but clearance for wheelchair footrests is required by most standards to extend the full depth of the lavatory.

Lavatories with legs limit access. Wall-mounted lavatories are easy to wheel under if properly installed. In the past, accessible lavatories have been cantilevered up to a depth of 27 in without additional bracing. If the lavatory was ever needed for support or if an electric hospital bed caught under the edge, the cantilever could break loose. A better solution is a countertop installation with a slight cantilever.

Water supply and drain pipes can be plumbed in a horizontally offset position to free knee space. Sharp or abrasive surfaces below the lavatory may injure a seated user. Insulate pipes under approachable lavatories or add a removable cover to prevent burns. Plastic pipe may not require insulation if the maximum hot water temperature does not exceed 120 degrees,2 but people with circulation limits can be burned by metal pipes at this temperature. Because of reduced blood flow, the heat cannot be carried away from the skin as rapidly and these people are burned at lower temperatures. The burn also takes a longer time to heal because of the limited blood supply. Thermostatic controls limit maximum temperature and prevent sudden changes.

The height of the lavatory is critical in accommodating the needs of people with varying ranges of motion. To be used from a standing position, the top of the lavatory should be from 32 to 36 in a.f.f., depending on user height. Adults in wheelchairs need a lavatory no higher than 34 in a.f.f. with knee clearance of 29 in at the front edge.3

Children in wheelchairs require a lavatory that is no higher than 30 in with a knee space of at least 24 in.4 To meet all of these needs, one option is to specify an adjustable-height lavatory. A clear floor space of at least 30 x 48 in must be provided, extending under the lavatory a maximum of 19 in. For children in wheelchairs the clear floor space should be at least 36 x 48 in extending under the lavatory a maximum of 14 in. Mount controls within 14 in of the front of the lavatory. Clear floor space for adults or children must never be obstructed by the doors swing, however the required turning space may overlap both the clear floor space and the door swing in most states.5

To improve visual acuity, identify the edge of the lavatory area by contrasting with a color. Color-coded hot and cold water controls are also helpful. Avoid glass lavatories, which may be visually confusing.

Faucets and Controls
A single-lever faucet can be easily controlled with one hand; spring-loaded faucets often take too much strength to operate. To improve reach, mount faucets and controls on the front apron of the counter or to the side of the lavatory. If the lavatory is used to wash hair, use a goose-neck design, which is easier to control than a hand-held spray.

The most universal faucet controls are operated without use of the hands. These controls sense any object underneath and set flow at a safe, preset temperature. These valves can also be set to open and close the flow at preset intervals, without the use of external controls. If a self-closing valve is used, the faucet must remain open for at least 10 seconds.6 A temperature control will prevent burns. Set the mix valve at a temperature of 115 degrees to start, and do not exceed 120 degrees.7

The noise created by water flow should be minimized to serve people with a wide range of hearing abilities. Specify quiet ball cocks designed to give a smooth flow and aerating nozzles on taps. Also reduce the water pressure to further quiet the flow.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

References
1. Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Standards, 1991.
2. North Carolina State Building Code Council, North Carolina State Building Code, vol. 1 C (Raleigh: NCSBCC, 1989).
3. ADA Accessibility Standards, 1991.
4. NCSBCC, 1989.
5. ADA Accessibility Standards 4.23.3
6. ADA Accessibility Standards, 1991.
7. NCSBCC, 1989.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Telephones for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T17:20:00Z

The simple telephone has now become a machine that understands specific voices, takes notes, communicates with others, and travels everywhere. When used as a component of a "smart" house, the phone can open doors, adjust heating and cooling, start the oven, and dim the lights. If water in a kettle is boiling on the stove, the level of the flame on the range can be lowered by a phone call from bed. One phone call can warm up the hot tub and start a romantic fire using a gas log in the fireplace.

If the existing wall phone is in an awkward location, replace it with a cordless phone. For people with reduced mobility, portable phones can prevent the race to the telephone or the frustration of a missed phone call. Choose a model with a two-way intercom for communication between the base unit and the handset. Specify a phone that searches frequencies for the clearest channel. Clarity is just as important as volume for people with reduced hearing. It must also switch between tone and pulse. Other features to consider are automatic redial, volume control, and a ringer that cannot be heard through the earpiece.

A car phone is a convenience as well as a necessary security feature for people of all abilities. Many public phones are not accessible. With a car phone, help can be reached, appointments can be confirmed, and directions can be requested, resulting in a great savings of time and energy.

Touch controls on phones are easier to manipulate for people with differences in coordination. Card-dial telephones are also available. Touch controls on the headset are more convenient for use from bed. Make sure the cord to the handset will reach across the width of the bed and wall-mount lighter-weight phones for additional stability. Specify a cord length of at least 29 in between the handset and the base of all phones (1). This cord length is required on accessible public phones to facilitate use with a text telephone.

Phones with larger, easy-to-read push buttons are convenient for all users but essential for people with reduced vision. "Talking" caller identification devices are also available.

If touch controls are still too difficult, attach a touch plate. Pressure on any part of the plate dials an operator, who will, in turn, place the call. Puff-and-sip dialing systems are available on some telephones; the operator is contacted by blowing into a plastic tube. Voice-activated dialing service is also available. Some phones respond to the spoken name of the person to be called, recalling their number and dialing it.

Headsets, puff switches, lapel microphones, or pillow switches can be used by people with differences in arm motion or manual dexterity. An existing phone can be adapted with a telephone stand and a handset clamp. Some models have a lever-operated line interrupter that can be used by pushing with the hand, elbow, or foot. With the line interrupter, the handset can be left permanently in the clamp.

Light-touch speaker phones are useful for people with varying strength and coordination who may have difficulty with a handset. Speakers can also be attached to existing telephones. Models are available with touch tone, memory for automatic dialing, visual cuing, and an answering system.

Telephone receivers on required accessible phones must generate a magnetic field to be compatible with many hearing aids. In-line amplifiers are available, and portable amplifiers can be added to an existing telephone. Amplified phones are also available which control background noise, volume, and clarity control, boosting high frequency sounds. This feature is needed by 95 percent of people with reduced hearing.

Text telephones, tone ringers, gongs, and signals in other frequencies allow more choices in signaling an incoming call. Telephones can also be wired to room lights, flashing lights, or amplified signaling devices. Visual telephone signaling devices should be placed near the phone, not mounted high on a wall where they would could be mistaken for a fire alarm or obscured by smoke in the event of a fire.

Telephones, teleprinters, and other telephonic devices are available to transmit printed messages to a teletype emphasis printer or television monitor. A portable text telephone with a cellular phone adapter can be used to call any location with a compatible unit or through the relay system to an incompatible unit. Provide a shelf for the unit with a receptacle outlet within 4 ft. A built-in printer provides a record of the conversation, an advantage to all users.

Some phones can be easily switched from text to voice. The switch also allows users to type ahead of incoming messages.

For a person with a soft voice or with speech differences, consider a programmable speech synthesizer or a handset for speech amplification. It plugs into any modular telephone and increases the volume of the voice by as much as 30 percent. Amplification may be critical for a person to be understood in an emergency.

References
1. ADA Accessibility Standards, 1991.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Tables in the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T17:11:00Z

Basic features to consider in table selection include construction, surface reflection, clearance for chair use, and height to support the task. These features become critical for people who may need to lean on the table for support, are susceptible to surface glare, or require specific heights and clearances to meet their needs.

A sturdy table may be necessary for support. When evaluating table construction, look for blocking in the leg joints. The joints should also be glued and screwed. Consistency of the type of wood used is a sign of quality construction.

Table and desk surfaces should reflect from 30 to 50 percent of light that falls on them. Darker woods, including rosewood and walnut, reflect as little as 9 percent. A white top reflects too much light and can tire the eyes. Shiny and glossy surfaces also produce too much glare. Select dull greens and beiges or light oak, maple, cherry, and teak for proper light reflectance (1).

A round or oval top on a pedestal base allows an approach from all directions. Specify a stable base which will support a person who leans on the edge of the top.

Select a table with a border clearly identifying the edge. A slight reveal will keep spills off the floor without accumulating dirt. A raised edge makes some tasks difficult from a seated position. Specify a round table or a table without sharp corners to prevent bruising. An adjustable-height table will allow a user to raise the table for detailed projects and reading.

In the dining room, a 60 in round table can comfortably seat six, including one person in a wheelchair. If the diameter is increased to 66 in, seven can be seated, including one person in a wheelchair. Eight can be seated around a 72 in table, including one person in a wheelchair. These estimates are based on dining room chairs that are 23 in wide.

A square table (54 x 54 in) can seat four people in wheelchairs. For rectangular tables, allow 24 in for each dining chair and 30 in for each wheelchair user. Children's tables should be adjustable in height.

The size, height, shape of the top, and type of base may all limit the approach by people who use mobility assistance devices. Children and adults of shorter stature in wheelchairs typically require a knee space of 24 in (2) a.f.f. Low cross bars between table legs may prohibit wheel chair access. Cross bars should be recessed a minimum of 19 in from the front edge of the table. Skirt boards should be recessed a minimum of 12 in (3). Trestle tables are often high enough to meet these requirements.

Pedestal tables allow closer access if the base does not interfere with the wheelchair footrests. Bases should be heavily weighted to prevent accidental overturning. A table with legs is more stable than a table with a pedestal base. Rubber or upholstered legs resist chair abrasion. A table with a minimum clearance of 27 in a.f.f. (24 in for children and adults of shorter stature) allows most wheelchair users to slide under the table apron. Specify a high table (in the range of 32 to 34 in a.f.f.) for a closer approach by a wheelchair user. A high table facilitates use of the shoulders and upper arms. If it is too high, however, it may put pressure on the back and cause eye strain.

For larger projects, plan an adjustable worktable. For a person in a wheelchair, one large table is more accessible than a grouping of smaller tables. For smaller projects, consider an adjustable coffee table. This works well for people who choose to spend some time on the floor out of their wheelchair. High coffee tables (21 to 24 in a.f.f.) do not pose a tripping hazard (4), but low tables are easier to reach from a seated position.

Avoid table legs or supports that extend into traffic areas. Keep coffee tables lightweight or on casters if they are to be pushed out of the way by people who use carts, strollers, luggage wheels, or mobility assistance devices. A nest of lightweight tables can be stacked out of the way when not in use.

Pedestal coffee tables cannot be used for support when sitting down or rising from the sofa, and drop leaves will not support much weight. Choose a well-constructed table with straight legs for support. Specify sleigh legs to easily move the table over textured surfaces.

Lamp tables and side tables are often moved; they should be lightweight and mobile. For detailed work from a standing position, keep the table slightly below elbow height. Heavy manual work requires a table about 10 in below elbow height (5).

In planning reachability, consider the shape of the table. With a 60 by 30 in table, only 68 percent of the surface can be easily reached (6). A person with reduced mobility will use even less of the surface. An L- or U-shaped surface can bring all items within reach for many people, although the corners may still be difficult.

A drop-leaf table can be closed to clear the space for access. To save space, use a drop-leaf table as a sofa table that can be extended for dining. Be sure the space between the legs is wide enough (30 in) for a wheelchair user. Extra seating stored under a sofa table can save space for wheel-chair passage.

Flip-top tables can be stacked against the wall to facilitate use of carts and mobility aids. Specify locking casters so that tables can be moved for storage. A wall-mounted table that folds flat against the wall can also help keep space clear for passage.

For serving food or clearing a table, specify a small cart. A toaster or microwave can also be moved on the cart from the kitchen to the dining room. Another handy item is a carpeted exercise table or bench at the seat height of the wheelchair to allow easy transfer. This elevated bench also works well for people who have trouble getting up from the floor after exercising.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

References
1. Walter B. Kleeman, The Challenge of Interior Design (Boston: CBI Publishing, 1981), 118.
2. North Carolina State Building Code Council, North Carolina State Building Code, vol. 1 C (Raleigh: NCSBCC, 1989).
3. NCSBCC, 1989, 7.2(d).
4. Bettyann Boetticher Raschko, Housing Interiors for the Disabled and Elderly (New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1982), 105.
5. Americans With Disabilities Act Accessibility Standards, 1991.
6. Kleeman, Challenge, 121.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Smoke Detectors and Alarms for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T17:03:00Z

In a residence, smoke detectors should be installed adjacent to each bedroom and at the top of the stairway. Another smoke detector should be installed in the living room if it is more than 15 ft away from a bedroom unit. A third should be installed in the basement, perhaps near the furnace room.

Be sure to consider location in relation to air supply and air return registers. A gas leak detector may also be required. Select a model with photoelectric and ion chamber detection to warn of both smoke and heat. The detector should also sound a warning when the battery needs to be replaced. Some models provide a battery within reach of an adult of shorter stature or a wheelchair user.

Vibrating pagers or visual signals can be used to alert a deaf person to an emergency situation or to a crying child. At night, the alarm can be connected to an electrical solenoid bed vibrator used under the pillow. A variable intensity fan should not be used as a nighttime fire alarm because it could blow smoke in the face of a sleeping individual.

Alarms must be provided in rest rooms and any other general usage areas. Alarms must produce a visual warning and a sound that exceeds the prevailing equivalent sound level in the room or space by at least 15 dbA or exceeds any maximum sound level with a duration of 60 seconds by 5 dbA, whichever is louder (1). A white strobe light is most easily seen as a visual warning; colored light (particularly red) is not effective (2) and will seldom comply with the brightness requirements.

The flash rate must not exceed five flashes per second, or it may trigger an episode for a person with epilepsy. An episode may also be triggered by a large number of low-intensity lamps. Use a single lamp when it can provide the necessary brightness and intensity. Where multiple signals can be seen from any one location, install a synchronizer to reduce the chances of triggering seizures. The alarms must be placed 80 in above the highest floor level within the space or 6 in below the ceiling, whichever is lower, to reduce the potential of concealment by smoke.

References
1. ADA Accessibility Standards, 1991
2. U.S. Architectural Transportation Barriers Compliance Board. 1994. Bulletin #2: Visual Alarms. Washington DC: Government Printing Office.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Small Appliances for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T16:48:00Z

Cordless units save time and energy. They can be operated from a distance by touch control, by phone, or with voice signals. Other controls for installed appliances should be set at counter level, accommodating children, people in wheelchairs, and adults of shorter stature. With smart appliances, like built-in vacuum systems, controls are eliminated. A vacuum system of this type is especially convenient because operation is easy and one-handed.

To start, the hose is simply inserted into the inlet. Be sure to mount the inlet at a reachable height (15 in a.f.f.). A built-in vacuum system is also appropriate for people with allergies, since dust and other allergens are blown out of the house.

If the cost of a built-in vacuum is not in the budget, a portable vacuum can be strapped to the back of a wheelchair for easier use. The best offer controls located on a contoured handle, not on the machine. Specify a retractable cord and a dust bag which is easy to change. The hose should be crush resistant and long enough to reach around the wheelchair.

A cordless rechargeable vacuum cleaner saves time and effort on small cleanups. It is much more difficult to haul out a large vacuum and maneuver around the cord in a wheelchair. It also improves reach when a quick cleanup is in order. Consider an upright vacuum for people who may have difficulty pushing down on a hand-held hose. It should be light-weight

Select small appliances that offer such safety features as a built-in ground fault circuit interrupter to prevent electrical shock. A hand-held hair dryer, for example, could be easily dropped into the bathtub or sink resulting in shock or fire.

Many people have a reduced reaction time to fire, and selection of an extinguisher becomes critical. Fire extinguishers are labeled for use with class "A", "B", or "C" fires. Class "A" fires are fueled by ordinary combustibles, class "B" by flammable liquids, and "C" by electrical appliances and wiring. For general use, select multi-purpose A-B-C models. Choose an extinguisher which has a slight texture on the canister to improve the grip, and is shaped not to roll off the lap of a seated user.

Also, look for a unit which will stand up on a flat bottom. Use a pedestal or mount the bottom at 27 in a.f.f. to prevent it from becoming a protruding hazard or out of reach for seated users. It should be easily removed from the wall, and removal of the unit should automatically remove the safety catch. Use several small extinguishers rather than one large model which is harder to handle. The diameter should be small enough to hold in one hand. Pictorial displays with sufficient contrast are preferable to written instructions.

Many small appliances and accessories originally designed for specific abilities are now being used universally. A universal alarm clocks features extra-large numerals, raised indicators at each number, and audible cues. An optional bed vibrator can be added to awaken people with a wide range of hearing abilities. Talking calculators and desk clocks announce the time in a human-like voice. Talking wristwatches are available with an audible or vibrating alarm, and a talking thermometer states the temperature. Talking scales announce current weight as well as any weight gain or loss, and talking. For convenience look for models with toe-operated controls. These features help all users.

A cordless headset allows the televisions to be used without increasing the ambient noise level in the room. A tape player with a cordless headset and a remote control is used by blind people in place of notes when public speaking. Tape recorders are also used by people with coordination limits to take notes.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Showers for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T16:35:00Z

Shower enclosures
A shower is quicker, easier, and safer to use than a bathtub. After one transfer to a shower wheelchair, the user can roll into the shower, under the lavatory, or over a toilet without additional transfer. The wheel-in shower can be installed in the enclosure space of a bathtub (30 in x 60 in). This elongated shower design provides more maneuvering space than a standard square shower. It should be equipped with a hand held shower system and with temperature and surge controls to provide a safe flow of water.

This enclosure can also be planned in a square or round design. A corner shower open on two sides allows access from more than one direction. The wheel-in shower floor must be sloped rather than curbed, since a curb may block wheels or become a tripping hazard. A flexible curb offers one solution. Another uses a 2 percent slope on the entire bathroom floor draining into the shower. A steeper slope makes it too difficult to maneuver a shower wheelchair or gurney. Be sure to specify non-slip flooring.

Water can also be contained by recessing the floor of a wheel-in shower. Use a grating to raise the floor height back to that of the bathroom. If a recessed floor is not practical, plan a slight ramp up to a grating placed on the finished floor. A grating and ramp can also be used to access an existing shower with a lip. In addition, a grating can be used to level the trench in a gang shower without restricting drainage.

Plan showers with curtains, not doors. Curtains on showers without curbs may be longer than floor length to prevent water from escaping. Ceiling-mounted shower curtains have a clean appearance, especially when they curve around two sides of the shower. Shower curtains can also be mounted on a swinging rod which can be used to protect the attendant.

A shower that requires neither curtains nor doors is easily accessible and is helpful for people with allergies. Shower frames and curtains may retain moisture and encourage mold growth depending on the climate; furthermore, plastic shower curtains may release irritants when heated.

A transfer-in shower takes up less space than a wheel-in shower or a bathtub (as little as 3 x 3 ft), but it requires a shower seat for transfer from a wheelchair. The dimensions of this shower are critical for some people to reach grab bars, shower controls, and accessories while leaning into the corner (1). Others can manage a longer reach to the grab bars for a transfer from a wheelchair, and a more open universal design becomes possible.

The transfer-in shower may have up to a ½ in high curb to contain water (2). During transfer, the front wheels of the wheelchair are placed over the curb to prevent the chair from sliding backward. Shower controls must be mounted on the wall opposite the seat.

The shower must be slip-resistant and equipped with a fold-up shower seat to clear the space for standing users. The shower seat should also be slip-resistant with small openings for good drainage. Make sure the edges and corners are rounded.

Shower fixtures and controls
New construction should include an additional connection for the future installation of a hand-held system. Such a fixture is ideal for seated use and can also be clipped to a bracket for use as a conventional shower. A valve should be selected which will not catch the shower hose, and it must require only one hand to regulate water flow and set the desired temperature. Install controls within 18 in of the entrance to a 36 in square shower to allow users to adjust the water prior to transferring.

Select a lever control which prevents high temperatures if the control is bumped by accident. This feature is also helpful to children just learning to use the controls. Another option is an integral thermometer, which allows the temperature to be preset. Both systems should include a pressure-balancing feature that prevents surges of hot and cold water.

Wall-mount a hand-held unit to allow adjustable height. The flexible hose must be at least 5 ft long (3), but some users may require a hose as long as 7 ft. Choose a model with a water-volume control in the shower head. For people who do not require a hand-held system, specify a multidirectional shower head that rotates 360 degrees.

Specify a shower head bar for vertical adjustment that does not obstruct the grab bars. Controls must be carefully placed. For children, a second set of controls should be installed at a height no greater than 3 ft a.f.f. As an alternative for children, a sensor could be used to automatically start the shower upon entering. The temperature control can be preset to prevent a burn.

Shower accessories
A shower shelf or caddie can prevent soap, shampoos, and accessories from slipping out of reach. Choose one in solid brass, solid surface material, or stainless steel to prevent corrosion and rust, and make sure that it drains easily. Recess a soap holder so that it does not interfere with wheelchair use and transfer, and plan multilevel soap dispensers. A liquid soap dispenser may require less coordination. A self-draining storage space for hair care products is also helpful.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

References
1. Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Standards, 1991.
2. ADA Accessibility Standards, 1991.
3. ADA Accessibility Standards, 1991.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Security Systems in the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T16:29:00Z

People who have been disabled by design will have a slower reaction time in responding to emergencies. Security systems become even more critical. At least four types of systems are available: ultrasonic motion detectors, pressure mats, passive infrared photoelectric sensors, and switch sensors. Each type can be powered by batteries or direct wiring.

Ultra-high-frequency sound motion detectors in a security system can interfere with hearing aids. Use pressure mats, passive infrared photoelectric sensors, and switch sensors instead. Infrared and radio frequency technology is also used for sound amplification in theaters and auditoriums to support people with hearing differences.

For a private residence, consider a home automation system with an electric locking device for the entry door coupled with an intercom system. When the doorbell is heard (or when a flashing light is activated by the system), the lock can be checked by remote control from anywhere in the interior. The doorbell can be answered and the door unlocked without having to move to the entry.

This is important to people who cannot reach the door quickly and risk missing visitors or deliveries altogether. A video monitor can also be added to the system, giving a clear picture of a visitor at the front door. Outdoor light controls are also an essential part of this system. An entry light that comes on automatically at night is another good choice. With any electrical security system, plan a backup if power is lost.

If there is a medical emergency or security breach, proximity to the call system becomes a crucial issue. Many alarm devices are available to call for help with the push of a button. One type triggers an automatic telephone communication system, which calls an answering service and plays a recorded message stating the location of the emergency. It will dial a second number if there is no answer at the first, and continues dialing both numbers until it gets a response. This system could be critical in the event of a fall or for people who have difficulty speaking or hearing, especially in an emergency.

It may also be important to include an emergency call system in the bathroom. Extend elastic cords through eyelets around the entire perimeter of the room at two levels, 4 in above the floor and above the door lever at 3 ft 6 in a.f.f. Attach the cord to toggle switches that activate the alarm. Alternately, a touch system could be installed on the baseboard so that a person could call for help anywhere in the building.

A commercial call system may be as simple as a buzzer or as involved as a teleconferencing device. In less critical situations, a telephone or intercom in the bathroom may be sufficient. Most intercoms can be monitored in other rooms when the channel is left open, so a call for help can be heard throughout the building. In a residence with young children or with a family member with Alzheimer's disease, the intercom can be used to monitor the use of outside doors. When a door opens, the intercom begins to beep. A quieter systems uses a wrist band to delay or lock the door whenever the user approaches it.

An automatic garage door opener makes another essential contribution to security. The remote control allows people with strength, reach, and coordination differences to raise and lower the door. The garage door system should include an automatic light with a lengthy delay to allow time to drive into the garage, unload the vehicle and go inside. Some systems are equipped with touch pads, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and burglar alarms for added security.

Note: a.f.f = above finished floor

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Office Equipment for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T16:20:00Z

Office equipment should be specified to improve accessibility for all employees. Printers, copiers, scanners, and fax machines, for example, should be usable at 30 in a.f.f. Touch controls should be located toward the front of the machines, and a clear floor space should also be provided to access the controls, load paper, and retrieve documents.

Office equipment with wireless remote control is a convenience for all people. Most stands for slide projectors are too high for adults of shorter stature or people in wheelchairs; a height adjustment may be needed. Many projectors can easily be stored in pop up stands for convenient access.

Calculators, automatic pencil sharpeners, and many other pieces of office equipment have been designed for one-handed use, an advantage to all users. Keyboards can now be added to that list. When selecting a model, specify right- or left-handed use.

Computers
Computers are used for a wide range of daily activities: telephoning, messaging, banking, and shopping, to name a few. Unlike telephones, computers can be used without verbal communication, a decided advantage for people with hearing or speech differences. Computers offer "bulletin boards", networks, and direct communication with anyone who has a touch-tone phone or a text telephone (also known as a TDD and TTY) (1).

A variety of accessories are available for computer use with a mouth stick or with one hand. A keyguard or wristguard stabilizes the finger, hand, or stick so that other keys are not pressed by accident. Software and operating systems now have built-in accessibility features that do not require users to press two keys simultaneously, as with the shift and control keys. Keyboard positions can be redefined. Other features slow down or eliminate the "auto-repeat" function, which may be difficult for some people to control (2). Voice recognition systems (which accept spoken commands) are also commonly available (3). With features like these in place, a person with quadriplegia can type up to 60 words-per-minute.

Keyboards are available with larger keys for people with differences in coordination. Some have single keys for frequently used words and phrases. For people who cannot depress keys, membrane keyboards are available. Switching systems can be operated by any movement and are used to replace keyboards. Switches are used in conjunction with a scanner or with Morse code, which is faster than scanning. Scanners provide wide choices of information on a screen or separate panel. The user selects the information of interest with a switch.

People with learning differences benefit from the immediate feedback offered by computers. Learners see, hear, and feel information (on a touch screen) to reinforce the message and allow for a variety of learning styles.

A speech synthesizer offers voice output for a person who cannot use the screen or who has a speech impairment. The computerized voice lets the user hear the information printed on the screen. It provides immediate audio feedback as data is entered, so mistakes are easily identified (4). When used with a telephone interface, a synthesizer can serve as a speaker phone allowing two-way conversation without the use of voice.

Braille systems and optical readers are helpful add-ons to improve visual acuity. A Braille display verbally "reads" the information from the screen and also presents it in Braille. Printed information can be scanned and displayed on a magnified screen, reprinted in Braille, or "read" by the speech synthesizer. This is especially helpful for dated information like newspapers or correspondence that needs attention before a tape or reading service can be used (5). Software is also available to enlarge text and images.

Computer peripherals are becoming more user friendly for people with varying abilities. A printer system, for example, can be operated with a mouth stick, by voice, or by hand without requiring manual dexterity. One excellent example of a user-friendly device is a disc-loading system that can be fully operated with a mouth stick.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

References
1. IBM National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities, Technology for Persons with Disabilities: An Introduction (Atlanta: IBM, 1991), 1-8.
2. IBM National Support Center, 1-8.
3. IBM National Support Center, 1-8.
4. IBM National Support Center, 1-8.
5. IBM National Support Center, 1-8.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Lighting in the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T16:08:00Z

Keep wall fixtures within reach and consider ceiling fixtures that pull down for task lighting (and easy bulb replacement). Many people in wheelchairs, adults of shorter stature, and children can reach these fixtures using a grabber. Those that cannot be lowered should be installed with long life bulbs.

Extra lighting is helpful when taking a shower from a shower chair or seat. Recess a vapor-proof light fixture in the ceiling of any shower stall. The light can be combined with an exhaust fan.

Keep lighting consistent from room to room. Install dimming rheostats to keep corridor lighting levels low at night (1). Many people have trouble adjusting to sudden changes from light to dark areas. Create a transition zone, such as a well lighted entryway or porch between the outdoors and the interior. Put side lights at the entrance to a bright room. Side lights and other accent lighting (instead of flat fluorescent light) can help people to maintain orientation within the room. Use shades or diffusers on all sources to prevent glare. Glare increases the deterioration rate of the retina (2), and unprotected bulbs have high temperature surfaces capable of carbonizing dust, a source of irritation to many people with allergies (3).

Place lighting (and windows) to throw light toward, not down, staircases. Use a diffuse source to prevent glare, not a directed source like a spotlight. Even lighting also prevents disorientation and confusion created by highlight and shadow. Stairways and landings, especially the head and foot of the stairs, are potentially dangerous areas. If these spaces are dark, the pupils will dilate and it will be more difficult to focus on the stairs. Keep the quantity of light adjustable throughout the entire space. Many older people require 4 to 5 ½ times more light to distinguish a figure from the background (at least 100 fc for close work) (4). If lighting quantity increases, be careful to avoid excessive heat by using low heat output luminaries.

Additional lighting is also important in areas where concentration is required, decisions are made, or danger is present. Decision areas, like a reception room and entryway, may require increased lighting. Many accidents occur in the kitchen and bathroom, so extra lighting becomes critical to accident prevention.

Glare is a problem for many people, including some older people and others with vision problems. Use diffusers on light fixtures, and provide several low intensity light sources rather than one bright source. Keep lights high and well diffused over the task area. Use low glare surfaces on counters, floors, furnishings, and walls. Control window glare with draperies.

Adequate lighting is particularly important for people with hearing differences to "read" facial expressions, body movements, and gestures. Avoid bright wall sconces, backlighting and shadows where people gather to talk or listed to speakers and interpreters.

Several factors should be considered when using fluorescent lighting. First, specify fixtures with minimum flicker which could trigger epileptic episodes in some people. Second, hyperactive children and some people with concentration differences may experience a shortened attention span and nutritional problems triggered by fluorescent lighting (5). Third, studies have shown that people with Alzheimer's disease and emotionally disturbed adolescents become more agitated under fluorescent lighting (6). Fourth, fluorescent ballasts may interfere with hearing aids. Finally, cool fluorescent light emphasizes the blue green tones that are most difficult to perceive for people with cataracts (7).

When planning fluorescent lighting, keep in mind that a lighting spectrum as close as possible to daylight may reduce depression, fatigue, hyperactivity, and some incidences of disease. The daylight spectrum also may increase calcium absorption and reaction time to light and sound (8). This, in turn, may increase productivity. When using fluorescent tubes, specify a color spectrum similar to daylight. The ultraviolet light in the spectrum is also helpful in sanitizing the space for people with allergies (9).

Lighting design can help establish a feeling of intimacy and control. Efficacy is especially important to people previously disabled by design. Intimacy is created by lighting the perimeter walls of a room and keeping the center darker. People will feel more comfortable and will sit closer together without feeling as if they are "invading" each other's territory.

Track lighting allows the quality and quantity of light to be altered as the user's needs change. With track lighting, the angle of the beam, the light color, and the light fixture can all be easily adjusted. For a change, light can be directed away from the ceiling of the room, creating a more personal feeling in the space. For example, kitchen lighting fixtures can be directed at hanging cabinets to keep the light level below ceiling height without creating glare. Track lighting can be used to graze light over rough surfaces, to frame a painting in light (using a projector), or to change the location of a chandelier.

A less institutional appearance is achieved when only the light is seen, not the source of the light. Exposed lighting systems are often harsh and glaring and can visually dominate a space. With concealed lighting systems, the emphasis is placed on the beauty of the room and its occupants, rather than on the light fixtures. Concealed fixtures are often less expensive than decorative fixtures. Concealed systems can be used to backlight wall accessories, to diffuse light on draperies, or to light the ceiling. Under-cabinet lighting can illuminate matte finish counters without glare.

Recessed lighting under stairs prevents accidents without creating glare. Low-voltage lighting strips can be added to stairway floor coverings as an alternative treatment.

References
1. Janet Reizenstein Carpman, Myron A. Grant and Deborah A. Simmons. Design That Cares. (Chicago: American Hospital Publishing, Inc., 1986), 228.
2. Lorraine G. Hiatt, "Long Term Care Facilities," Journal of Health Care Interior Design 2 (1990): 200.
3. Robert J. Kobet, "Allergies in Architecture" (Paper delivered at the regional conference of the American Association of Otolaryngologic Allergists, San Antonio, Tex., 18 May 1987).
4. Hiatt, "Long Term Care," 199.
5. Walter B. Kleeman, The Challenge of Interior Design. (Boston: CBI Publishing, 1981), 79.
6. Hiatt, "Long Term Care," 200.
7. Carpman, Design That Cares, p. 228.
8. Kleeman, "Challenge," 76.
9. Robert J. Kobet, "The Tight House Syndrome: Causes and Cures" (Paper delivered at the American Society of Interior Designers National Conference, Washington, D.C., August 1988).

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Kitchen Layout for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T16:03:00Z

Flexibility is the key to successful universal kitchen design. At least one counter in the kitchen should be adjustable so that it can be occasionally changed to meet the needs of visitors and future residents. Removable cabinets will also make the home easier to sell by appealing to a larger market, including people who use mobility aids and people who need to sit down to cook or wash the dishes. For everyday use by children or adults of shorter stature, tall adults, wheelchair users and those with lower back pain, a variety of fixed work surface heights should be planned.

Work space should be planned between the sink, range, and refrigerator. Because it requires less strength to slide pans between the sink and stove, it is helpful if the sink and range are on the same level and connected by a continuous counter. Supplemental work surfaces should also be offered at a variety of heights including multiple-height tables, pull-out breadboards, islands, and pull-out carts.

Another universal concept is the alternate kitchen plan. With this option, the existing kitchen counters remain at a height for standing users, while a second kitchen is temporarily installed for seated users as needed. A breakfast nook, dining room, utility room, or guest suite could have hot and cold water lines and a drain concealed during construction, so that the alternate kitchen can be added at a later date with minimal expense.

The alternate kitchen concept is also useful to anyone with a temporary injury or to a house guest in a wheelchair. If elderly parents need family assistance, for example, a temporary kitchen could be installed for use from a wheelchair with minimal expense using a portable refrigerator, a two-burner hot plate, and a small oven or microwave.

Remodeling a kitchen for wheelchair use is costly now and may be costly again in the future when the home is resold or rented to a limited market of people in wheelchairs. Rather than limiting the market, the alternate kitchen will expand the market and increase the resale value of the home.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Kitchen Fixtures and Appliances

2008-05-16T15:48:00Z

To save time and energy, choose labor-saving devices like self-cleaning ovens, frost-free refrigerators, and microwave ovens. The microwave should be free of leakage that can interfere with hearing aid operation. Specify a model with visual, tactile, and audible controls. To improve reach, place it on a pullout counter. Avoid low contrast displays. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) with amber letters are easier to read than liquid crystal displays (LCDs). Look for a display with a letter height of at least 5/16 in (1).

People who are blind also appreciate the safety of a microwave, since no flames are involved. Non-metallic cooking containers and utensils do not get as hot in a microwave as in a standard oven, a safety feature that is especially important for people with reduced sensation. Take care to avoid steam burns when opening a container from the microwave. The door release mechanism should protrude far enough so that it is easy to depress with a fist, arm, or hand. The most difficult controls are squeeze triggers and pull handles with no opening in the handle.

Ice dispensers are easier for most people to use than ice trays. Door-mounted models bring ice and cold water within reach and are helpful for people who have the strength and coordination to use them. Before purchasing, make sure that these features can be plumbed into a nearby water supply and test the operation of controls with a closed fist.

Controls
Switches should be cued with warning lights to show that appliances are on. Redundant cuing like this makes controls more noticeable by all people. It may be helpful to include automatic turn-off switches on appliances. Controls should also be large, easy to read, and well located. Choose an appliance with controls and accessories on the side or front, not in the back where users would have to reach over a hot element. Built-in appliances should have controls at counter level, not on the fascia which can be too easily reached by children.

Some appliances may need to be used with an electrical outlet under the counter. For use from a seated position, mount an electric can opener on the inside of a lower cabinet door. Store a mixer on a pop-up shelf under the counter. Consider installing a motor base on the countertop for stable operation of many attachments. A food processor, for example, can be operated with one hand from a permanently installed motor base. Locate the motor between the cook top and the sink, where most food preparation will take place.

Specify push bars rather than pull-out buttons, touch controls with raised tactile surfaces rather than dials, and controls that can be operated with the palms up, not down. Test a control to see if it can be operated with a fist using light pressure. Where greatest accuracy is required, hand and arm motion should be used rather than foot and leg movements. The hand should be held close to the body at approximately elbow level to maximize accuracy.

Avoid controls that can be activated accidentally. Although touch controls are the easiest to use, they are also easier to turn on by accident. Remember that touch controls can also be easily used by children.
Specify controls that do not require sustained effort. Some push-type faucets, for example, require sustained holding to operate. Also, keep in mind that it is easier to operate controls in front of the body rather than at the side and easier at the waist than overhead.

Faucets
A faucet with a single lever can be easily operated with one hand. Paddles, blades, or push-type mechanisms are also easier to use than knobs and are good choices for people who may be confused by single-lever controls. Many faucet controls can be mounted on the front apron of the counter for an easier access by a seated user.

To eliminate controls, consider a faucet that incorporates an infrared sensor to initiate water flow. A faucet with a spring-loaded push knob or push rod can be operated with the palm of one hand. The rod attaches to the faucet and is operated by pressure from a cup or glass. A gooseneck faucet can be used to fill a pan on the counter without lifting the pan into the sink.

One innovative faucet design combines a gooseneck style with a pull-out spray on a retractable hose. Both the faucet and the spray can be installed in an existing sink with a single hole, and the unit is designed around the natural motion of the hand and wrist.

Faucet controls should be located uniformly on all sinks throughout the home to prevent accidental scalding. Hot water taps are normally on the left, cold on the right. Green, red and blue color coding can be used to differentiate filtered, hot and cold taps, respectively.

Sinks
Access to a sink can be improved by the placement of the drain control, the depth of the sink, and the location of the installation. The drain control may be located on the countertop to improve reach. The sink must be no deeper than 6 ½ in (2) (5 ½ in for children). If an existing sink is deeper, recess the front of the countertop for a closer approach. From a wheelchair, the user should be able to place one hand flat on the bottom of the sink. A removable rack can also be used to improve reach.

Consider installing two sinks in the kitchen, one at the correct height for the cook, the other for the rest of the family. If the cook is standing with arms relaxed, the bottom of a shallow sink should be 2 in higher than wrist height (3). If the main sink is not accessible, add a bar sink on a lowered counter. This sink will also be accessible to children if the controls are with 14 in from the front of the counter.

Specify a sink with the drain to the back and to one side so that connecting pipes will be either to the left or right, not in the center, allowing a closer approach in a wheelchair. With a double sink, only one side needs to be accessible to seated users.

It is easier to ease pots and pans out of a sink with angled sides. A stainless sink is thinner and allows more knee clearance than a porcelain sink. Also, it does not chip, an advantage for people are prone to drop things.
Adjustable-height sinks are available in prefabricated models with manual or automatic controls. When customizing an installation, simply change the tailpiece to alter the height. To do so, a flexible supply line must be in place and the trap must be low enough to receive the tailpiece at the lowest position of the sink. Insulate the pipes under open sinks to prevent burns, or add a nonmetallic panel that can be removed for maintenance. The cover also keeps the pipes out of sight.

Ovens
Specify wall-mounted ovens instead of floor models. Wall ovens are easier for all people, but are critical to wheelchair use. The hot oven door of a conventional oven is a dangerous barrier to access. Ovens mounted above shoulder level are often unusable from a wheelchair or scooter, since it is difficult to lower heavy pots and pans with arms extended above shoulder height. For increased lifting ability, the arms should be bent at a right angle, not extended above the shoulder.

Mount the oven door just above lap height and insulate both sides of the oven to prevent burns. Install one rack at counter height for easy transfer of food. Install drawers under the oven for convenient storage. Above the oven, add a cabinet with vertical dividers for baking pans, broilers, trays, and lids.

It is easier to reach into the back of an oven with a side-hinged door. Plan the door latch and lever controls on the side next to the open counter. Install a shelf under the side-hinged door to hold a heavy pan after it is removed from the oven. The shelf should pull out to a minimum of 10 in (4).

Next to the oven, plan a counter with knee space. This space can be used to reach fully into the oven, which is necessary for maintenance. To improve visual acuity, install wall ovens with controls at eye level.

Ranges
Cooking is easier from a wheelchair with a clear floor space below a cook top, but the danger of accidental burns caused by spills increases. Raised heating elements should be avoided; it is easier to tip a pan off an elevated surface. Smooth glass surfaces work well, and the newer models heat quickly and offer redundant cuing. One unit can be secured against accidental operation by children or by adults with dementia.

Clear floor space can be allowed under the range by planning an open knee space or by specifying a range that pulls out. With this type of unit, storage is not sacrificed to knee space. Make sure that a clear floor space of at least 30 by 48 in is maintained when the range is open.

It may not be necessary to provide clearance under the cook top for seated users if cooking elements and controls are in line along the front of the counter. Spills and burns often occur when reaching for controls at the back of the range. Controls should be highly contrasted and redundantly cued with tactile markings on the on-off position.
As an alternative, to prevent burns, stagger back elements so that they are accessible without reaching over a front element. Do not plan storage in a cabinet over the cook top.

Magnetic induction cook tops are more expensive and require special cookware, but they greatly reduce the danger of burns and fire. They eliminate hot elements, an obvious boon to the blind person. They also offer more stability for pots and pans. Install magnetic induction cook tops level with counters. To prevent burns, electrical shocks, and abrasions, insulate surfaces under and on both sides of the range.

A small wall-mounted mirror can be used to monitor pots on back burners. The mirror eliminates the need for adults of shorter stature or wheelchair users to reach over a hot element to check the food. Make sure the mirror is removable for easy cleaning.

Mount the exhaust fan on the counter with controls within reach. A higher fan mounted close to the ear is often too noisy for people with reduced hearing. Vent the fan outdoors for more efficient control of smoke and odors.

For people who depend on the sense of touch, install guardrails around gas burners and electric elements. Gas offers auditory and olfactory cues as well as visible flames. A person who is unable to smell gas or is hypersensitive to gas odors would need an electric range. People with dementia or learning disabilities may need a fire suppression system or a system that cuts off power to the range if smoke is detected.

Refrigerators
A side-by-side refrigerator allows greater access to the freezer from a wheelchair or scooter, but it is more difficult to wheel around two swinging doors. This refrigerator is often wider than a conventional model and may take up too much space. If space if limited, use a refrigerator with the freezer below even though it may be difficult for tall users. Install the handle side toward the sink.

Plan a clear floor space under the counter next to the refrigerator. Make sure the refrigerator door can swing back 180 degrees to allow maximum access, which is especially important for cleaning or defrosting. A shallow horizontal refrigerator with a top door can be mounted on a countertop with clear floor space below, or a refrigerator drawer can bring food within reach. A number of these smaller units can be distributed around the kitchen and throughout the house where needed.

Small details on a refrigerator can make a big difference, especially for wheelchair users. Make sure the controls are toward the front of the unit. Look for stops on shelves; swing-out adjustable shelves are an option. Permanent shelves should not be deeper than 13 in. If the shelves are too deep, add lazy susans as needed.

Refrigerators with magnetic door catches require less strength to open than those with latches, but sometimes even the magnetic seal is too difficult. As a temporary measure, a portion of the seal can be blocked with tape or a plastic clip. Also try a looped strap over the handle for people with reduced strength.

Extra shelves, especially in the freezer section, will make it easier to reach more items without moving others. Adjustable door shelves can hold gallon-size containers and larger bottles, putting these heavy items in the most accessible location. Two small crispers in the refrigerator are easier to handle than one large unit. Specify crispers on roller guides.

For adults of shorter stature, children, very tall people or those using mobility aids, it is often difficult to reach the bottom of a chest freezer. Specify an upright model and use lazy susans for items in the back.

Dishwashers
Specify a dishwasher with a recessed motor so that the toe space can be elevated to clear wheelchair footrests. Front-loading dishwashers with side-hinged doors allow a closer approach when using a mobility aid. If space is available, provide access on both sides of a standard front-loading dishwasher, and elevate the unit at least 6 in. All of the rack space should be accessible from the front of the machine. The silverware basket should be equipped with a handle.

Portable top-loading dishwashers and their sink attachments are difficult for many people to use. Specify front-loading dishwashers with porcelain or plastic interiors; stainless steel interiors may become too hot.
Redundant cuing should be specified on the dishwasher. A visual off and on indicator is an advantage to people with a wide range of hearing abilities. Quiet dishwashers are also available to reduce the ambient noise in the kitchen.

Garbage Disposals
In considering a garbage disposal, remember that the disposal will save frequent trips to empty the garbage outdoors. A disposal can be installed on the deep side of a double sink, leaving knee space below the other side for seated users. A continuous-feed model with a separate switch will be easier to control than a batch-feed model with the switch in the drain. Keep the switch within easy reach. The unit should be installed with the drain to the back and to one side for use from a seated position.

Trash Compactors
Although trash compactors also save trips to empty the garbage, the compacted bag may be too heavy to handle. For wheelchair users, the compactor takes up valuable space under the counter.

Hot Water Dispensers
Hot water dispensers eliminate the need to heat, carry or pour boiling water. Specify a model equipped with a lever.

Small Appliances
Select small appliances on the basis of weight, balance, and control. Specify rechargeable models to avoid the limits of a cord. A cordless electric carving knife is usually easier to use than a regular knife. A cordless scrubber is helpful for people who have trouble exerting enough pressure to clean pots and pans. A mixer can be too heavy for many people to lift; look for a lightweight model. The mixer should have good balance, an upright rest, and controls that can be operated with one hand, an advantage for all users.

Recess small appliance cabinets in the splash at counter level for extra work space. The appliances can then be moved out on the counter without lifting. To save counter space, a microwave oven, toaster, coffee maker, or other appliance can be suspended from the cabinet above or used from a pull-out cart. The cart can also be moved to the dining area, allowing use of appliances at the table.

Toaster ovens become dangerously hot while a manual toaster requires coordination and dexterity. An automatic toaster may be the best answer for most.

Some small kitchen appliances offer user-friendly controls; the C grips and paddle controls on many food processors are good examples. Also appropriate are electric frying pans available with Braille dials and large baffled controls. Such pans are designed for stability and are available with two handles to improve strength and grip.

An electric can opener that requires sustained squeezing for operation can be too difficult for many people; choose a model that locks in the on position and can be used with just one hand. Beaters are also available for use with one hand.

References
1. Story, Molly Follette, "Microwave Ovens" (Raleigh, NC: The Center for Universal Design, North Carolina State University, 1995), 5.
2. ADA Accessibility Standards, 1991.
3. Health and Welfare, Canada, Plumbing Fixtures, H74 18/11 1985E (Ottawa: Ministry of Supply and Services, Canada, 1985).
4. ANSI, 4.32.5.7.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Kitchen Counters for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T15:38:00Z

Three steps are often repeated in the kitchen during food preparation. First, the food is removed from the cupboard or refrigerator and sometimes washed in the sink. Next, the food is prepared or mixed. Finally, it is cooked. For this reason, the sink should be located between the stove and the refrigerator, with counter space on both sides of the sink (18 in minimum).

Some people who are blind use counters to line up all the ingredients and utensils in logical order for the task. For this purpose, the countertop should be at least 4 ft long. People who stand with crutches or use a walker also appreciate longer clear counters to provide adequate body support. Deaf people may need extra counter space to set things down, freeing their hands for sign language (1). Seated users may have an awkward angle for lifting objects onto counters. Unbroken counter spaces allow objects to be pulled or pushed instead, a technique which is also used by people with limited balance or strength.

For wheelchair users, kitchens or work areas should have a minimum clear floor space of 40 in between opposite counters or walls if the kitchen is open on both ends (2). It is best to plan more space between the counters and some clear floor space under the counter to permit a 5 ft diameter U-turn in a wheelchair. Three-wheelers may require a slightly larger area for a smooth turn, and larger spaces should be planned if the kitchen will be shared.

Counter Heights
Counter surfaces at a variety of heights allow people of all ages, sizes, and abilities to work comfortably together. Since many people slide heavy objects on counters, the primary work surface should be continuous and adjustable in height. Adjustable surfaces offer flexibility to provide just the right position to improve strength and coordination. Counters can be mounted on recessed heavy-duty shelf standards screwed into studs or solid blocking (3). Specify a finish on adjacent counter ends and cabinets since these will be exposed when the counter is lowered.

Adjustable counters can be lowered for use by children and future residents. Taller people may prefer counters up to 42 in a.f.f. for some tasks. The minimum knee clearance required for adult wheelchair users is 27 in a.f.f. (with 24 in required for children). An adjustable counter no more than 2 in thick allows a cook in a wheelchair to work comfortably. If the counter has a skirtboard, recess it a minimum of 12 in from the front edge, but design the counter to support front edge loads (4).

If only one adjustable height counter is installed, place it next to the latch side of the refrigerator. The resulting clear floor space next to the refrigerator improves reach for people using wheelchairs or scooters. A counter lowered for seated users may be at a supportive height for a standing person to knead dough or perform other heavy manual work. The ideal height for this work is calculated to be about 10 in below elbow height (from a standing position) (5). Writing and light work can best be done on a work surface 1 to 3 in below elbow height when standing. When seated, surfaces for light work should be slightly higher than surfaces for heavy manual work. With limited counter space, consider a motor-driven countertop that can be changed in height for a variety of tasks and abilities.

Counter Finishes
Specify a heat-resistant counter next to the cook top to prevent surface burns. Ceramic tile is a good choice, but it is more difficult to slide pans over tile joints than over a smooth surface. Many people cannot lift heavy pans and need to slide them between the range and the sink. Smooth, heat-resistant solid surface counters are available for this purpose.

Surface burns, scratches, and cuts can be removed from some solid surface counters with a light sanding. Matching sinks can be fabricated with angled sides and in custom depths to improve access. Solid surface counters are also needed by people who are allergic to laminate tops adhered to chemically offensive substrates.
High maintenance products waste valuable time and energy. A slight texture or pattern on the counter will conceal water spots and scratches, but too much texture (like deep leather grains) will hold dirt. Remember that colors which are too light (or too dark) will show smudge and grease marks. Use a slight pattern with a light color to increase ambient light levels, and be sure to specify a low-glare finish.

Details
Corners are often difficult to reach, especially for those using mobility assistance devices. An L-shaped counter design has only one corner, but a person who uses the counter for support may have trouble leaning into it. Add a straightedge to the corner of the counter for better support and more reachable work space, even from a wheelchair.

Because a person in a wheelchair must rest his or her arms on the edge of the counter while working, bevel or round the edge for comfort. This will also protect those who may fall against the counter or use the counter for support. Elevated rolled edges prevent spills but make it difficult to work directly on the counter from a wheelchair. Rolling out a pie crust, for example, is almost impossible on an elevated edge. Add a bevel instead or slope the counter slightly to drain toward the sink. This slope also helps people slide heavy pots from the work area to the sink (6).

Add a rail to the edge of the counter as a safety feature since many falls occur in the kitchen. The rail also protects the counter from chipping and can be used hold towels or to pull up to the counter in a wheelchair.
Alternatives to Counters. A fold-down work surface can be added to increase counter space within reach without taking up floor space needs by people who use mobility aids. Additional fold-down or removable shelves could be located under the counter to increase storage without creating a problem for seated users. A sliding shelf over the counter can greatly increase work space.

Extra counter space can also be created by replacing a drawer with a pull-out work surface. If a lower counter height is required for stirring, cut a hole in the surface to hold the mixing bowl. Line the hole with a rubber strip to keep the bowl from slipping.

A movable chopping board over the sink can also increase usable counter space. Choose one with a vegetable basket on the side for drainage. Acrylic boards can be cleaned more easily and completely than wood, but wood boards can be customized for one-handed use. Nails can be driven into the wood to impale vegetables so they can be peeled with one hand, or a potato peeler can be clamped on. A raised edge can be added to one corner to help hold bread in place when buttering.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

References
1. Kenneth R. Tremblay, "Housing and Design Considerations for the Deaf," Dimensions (Fall/Winter 1989): 7.
2. American National Standards Institute, American National Standard for Buildings and Facilities Providing Accessibility and Usability for Physically Handicapped People, ANSI A117.1 1986 (New York: ANSI, 1986).
3. Barrier Free Environments, Adaptable Housing: The Technical Manual for Implementing Adaptable Housing Unit Specifications, 023 000 00760 6 (Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1989), fig. 22.
4. NCSBCC, 1989.
5. ADA Accessibility Standards Appendix, 1991.
6. Anne Patterson, ed., "Beautiful Designs for the Handicapped," Kitchen and Bath Concepts (January 1987): 36.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.

Kitchen Cabinets for the Accessible Home

2008-05-16T05:23:00Z

When using removable cabinets under an adjustable height counter, be sure the counter adjusts between 42 in a.f.f. for tall users and 24 in for children in wheelchairs. Each cabinet under this counter can be designed as a freestanding unit that is totally removable, as a unit with a removable front and base, or as a unit with a base that folds up to open the space for access by a wheelchair user.

Adjacent cabinets should be finished on the exterior side which will be exposed when another cabinet is removed. A clear kick space (8 ¾ in a.f.f. by 6 in deep) (1) should be left between the floor and all cabinets to protect them from wheelchair abrasion and to allow a closer approach. For people with sufficient mobility, drawers can be recessed into the toe space to store items that are seldom used.

Install upper cabinets on heavy-duty commercial shelf brackets between the counter height and the high reach limit. Cabinets that lower with the push of a button are also available. An open shelf between a cabinet and the counter will increase reachable storage space.

For seated use, a clear floor space of at least 30 in x 48 in must be allowed for each work area. If possible, plan slightly larger clear floor spaces (36 in x 48 in) for children in wheelchairs who may require larger maneuvering spaces. These space allowances are also helpful for people who use other mobility aids.

One of the most convenient plans incorporating these clear floor spaces is an L-shaped kitchen with a level counter space extending between the refrigerator and the wall oven. Clear knee space should be provided under the entire counter, including the sink. The counter and sink should be adjustable (between 24 and 42 in).

Plan a breakfast area close to the kitchen counter to shorten the distance for serving and clearing. Storage between kitchen and dining room should open from both sides. This is particularly helpful with corner cabinets, where back storage space may be out of reach from one side.

A movable cabinet under the sink can serve as a cart between the counter and the table. When the cabinet is moved out, the space under the counter is clear for seated users and the top of the cart can serve as extra counter space. The cabinet can also serve as a refuse container or be used to hold other large items, like heavy roasters or small appliances that are difficult to remove from the back of the other cabinets. The cabinet should have casters and a top rail to prevent items from sliding off.

Prefabricated cabinets (requiring a 36 in counter height) may be usable from a wheelchair, depending on the height of the user. It may be desirable to eliminate the 3 in a.f.f. toe space and lower these high cabinets to the floor. This method sacrifices clearance for wheelchair footrests but saves the expense of custom work. When using this method, leave enough clearance for the doors to swing open over the kitchen floor covering.

To access the sink under existing cabinets, cut a large section out of the cabinet floor to provide a space for footrests. Remove the center stile and attach it to one of the door edges.

Kitchen Storage Details
Plan extra storage space in the kitchen to eliminate clutter and to cut down on the number of needed shopping trips. Uncluttered space is a boon for everyone, but especially for people who wish to improve visual acuity, mobility, and concentration.

Organize items by activity; keep the coffee, coffeepot, and filters in the same area. Store baking equipment and ingredients in the same cabinet close to the oven. Keep frequently used items at the front of cabinets and heavier items on lower shelves; eliminate items that are seldom used. Use dividers in drawers to organize utensils and kitchen gadgets. A system of this type is especially important for blind people.

Use high cabinets to store seasonal items and seldom-used equipment. Install clear plastic shelves or metal racks on upper cabinets to allow easy viewing. For people who are allergic to petrochemicals, use mesh shelves installed in metal or hardwood cabinets (2). Existing cabinets can also be sealed to minimize off-gassing of formaldehyde.

It is difficult to plan sufficient storage within a 36 to 48 in a.f.f. reach of most wheelchairs users, children, and adults of shorter stature. For additional storage, a built-in waste bin with automatic lid can be attached to a cabinet door. Wire racks can be added to cabinet or pantry doors. Even the space between the cabinet door and sink can be utilized.

Dispensers can help bring cans and bottles within reach. Lazy susans or slide-out rotary shelves also improve access. Half-circled pull-out shelves are particularly useful in corners. Vertical revolving shelves bring high storage within reach.

Shelves attached to cabinet doors also help to bring storage within reach. These shelves should have rims to keep objects from sliding off. Roll-out shelves especially need rims.

Removable bins offer access and flexibility on any shelf. Bins and heavy objects slide more easily on a shelf with a smooth surface. For faster access, plan shallow shelves rather than deeper kitchen cabinets. Reaching into deep base cabinets is difficult for most and dangerous for some. Plan a pantry in the space between studs in the wall to add shallow shelving.

Kitchen Drawers
A pull-out pantry can be installed in minimal cabinet space. A pull-out drawer for pans is also a convenience. Drawers should be equipped with full extension roller-type slides, which will allow access to deep storage. Pull-out drawers may need one lower side to allow access from a seated position.

Kitchen Cabinet Doors
Most cabinets now incorporate hinges that hold the door closed but require more strength to open than touch latches. With a touch latch, the door opens with a push rather than a pull. Magnetic catches on cabinets may be difficult to open unless they are combined with touch latches. This system requires no pulls or knobs which can be uncomfortable for people who may need to lean on cabinets for support. If hardware is included, test it for strength and durability. Knobs should not protrude more than 1/8 in (3). Use a slightly textured finish on the cabinet to prevent slipping.

Cabinets with handles may need extra-long C pulls. Mount handles vertically on upper cabinets as close to the bottom of the doors as possible. On base cabinets, mount the pulls near the top edge of the cabinet doors. Right-angled pulls work well for a vertical or horizontal grasp.

Flat door handles can be marked in Braille. Spices can also be labeled in Braille and placed in alphabetical order. Mount the spice rack on the inside of a cabinet or pantry door for easy reach.

In some locations, sliding kitchen cabinet doors may be easier to operate while using a mobility aid than doors that swing out. Tambour doors will not block other storage areas when open, but they may require more force and control than standard cabinet doors. Display items can be stored in cabinets without doors, but they will require extra maintenance.

Upper cabinet doors may injure people when left open and cannot be easily detected by blind people who use canes. Install bi-fold, swing-up, or sliding cabinet doors to prevent injury. Self-closing hinges are also available, but they require simultaneous two-handed use; one hand must hold open the door while the other removes an item from the cabinet.

Note: a.f.f. = above finished floor

References
1. North Carolina State Building Code Council, North Carolina State Building Code, vol. 1 C (Raleigh: NCSBCC, 1989).
2. Robert J. Kobet, "The Tight House Syndrome: Causes and Cures" (Paper delivered at the American Society of Interior Designers National Conference, Washington, D.C., August 1988).
3. Walter B. Kleeman, The Challenge of Interior Design (Boston: CBI Publishing, 1981), p. 42.

Excerpted from Beautiful Universal Design: A Visual Guide, Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry, John Wiley & Sons, 1999; Used With Permission. © Cynthia Leibrock and James Evan Terry.