A Barrier Free Assessment provides advice on the access requirements of people with physical and sensory disabilities, utilising information from sources such as the Building Act 2004 the Building Code 1992 and other official documents approved from the Department of Building and Housing.
Purpose of an accessibility audit?
“To audit the building (or plans of proposed buildings) for compliance with the legislative requirements for the provision of access for people with disabilities”
(Reference: Barrier Free NZ Trust Web Site)
Assessments can be for new or existing buildings/premises, or when owners wish to upgrade their facilities. A detailed report is provided upon completion that offers recommendations on how barriers can be minimised, removed, or prevented and advises on whether it is appropriate for the building to display the International Symbol of Access.
DRC has qualified Barrier Free Auditors who are able to carry out Barrier Free Assessments as well as provide comprehensive Accessibility Audit Reports giving accessibility advice and recommendations.
To comply with access requirements a building must have an ‘Accessible Route’, as defined in New Zealand Standards (NZS) 4121:2001 as – :
“A continuous route that can be negotiated unaided by a wheelchair user, walking device, or a person with a guide dog. The route shall extend from street boundary and car parking area to those spaces with the building required to be accessible to enable people with disabilities to carry out normal activities and processes within the building”
The three concepts in determining the effectiveness of an accessible route or journey are: |
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Approachability: Is concerned with the exterior environs of a building, including car parking |
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Accessibility: Ensures that people with disabilities can enter and move about freely within a building |
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Usability: Means that the building and facilities are, in fact, usable by people with disabilities |
For further information and to discuss your requirements, please email Tony Howe (Information Consultant) or phone DRC on (09) 625 8069.
TESTIMONIAL
Hi, I just wanted to touch base and thank you for the work that was put into the recent audits at both the domestic and International Terminals here at the Auckland Airport.
Just a quick update:
- We have put a team together and gone through the recommendations that were made
- The recommendations were rated to allow some prioritization
- Some recommendations we will ‘just go do’ – others will require some planning and capex approval, so may take some time
- Other long term actions have been passed onto the area owners so recommendations can be considered in any future changes
Thanks again for this audit – there are some very good suggestions that will not only benefit the disabled, but also make the Airport a better / safer place to be.
Regards
Health and Safety Manager
Auckland Airport
DRC also has some information you can download:
- Auckland Builders who do Housing Modifications
- Auckland Builders who install Safety Grab Rails and do Small Jobs
