Accessible Events Checklist

Creating an accessible event requires advance planning. We hope this list will be helpful for planners in designing events that are welcoming to all.

Remember

  • Cooperation and creativity are keys to readily achieving an inviting and accessible event.
  • Advanced preparations assure independent participation by all.
  • Don’t assume all special requests can be fulfilled – always ask beforehand!
  • Select a location employing courteous, trained staff.
  • Some sites might not meet all criteria. If in doubt, consult with a local disability group.

The Site

____ All event areas are accessible by wheelchair

____ Staff is trained in disability awareness

____ Service animals welcome (Are outdoor grassy areas nearby for service dogs?)

____ Staff is cooperative when discussing special needs

____ The site is served by accessible transportation

Exterior Checklist

____ Signage is visible from street

____ Site is well-lit at night

____ Accessible parking is near an accessible entry

____ All surfaces are firm & slip-resistant

____ Snow removal is assured

____ A covered, drop-off entry point, or valet parking is available, if needed

____ Curb cuts & level sidewalks

____ An intercom is available, if needed

____ Accessible routes and features are clearly marked

Interior Checklist

____ One accessible entry (not isolated or locked) that is wide enough for wheelchairs

____ Door handles are easily rotated (level-type preferred)

____ Directional and informational signs are located for easy viewing from a wheelchair

____ Level floors have low-pile carpet, tile or wood surfaces clear of obstacles

____ Ramps have a maximum rise of 1 foot per 12 feet with handrails on each side

Elevators

____ Readily available & sized for wheelchair-users (minimum or 48”X48”)

____ Braille or raised-letter buttons are reachable by all

____ Floor changes are visible and announced by auditory signals

Restrooms

____ One unisex, accessible washroom is proximate to event

If multiple fixtures:

____ One stall is 60”x56”D with grab bars

____ Toilet seat 17”-19” above the floor

____ 60” diameter turning space or a T-turn for wheelchairs

____ One wall hung sink with maximum rim or counter height of 34” above the floor, space underneath for a forward approach, and lever-handled faucets

____ Dispensers, hand dryers & accessories are mounted with controls no more than 48” above the floor, depending on approach

Emergency Information

____ Alarms are visible and audible

____ Staff is trained in assisting people with disabilities

____ Evacuation plan is in place

Meeting Rooms

____ Rooms are fragrance & smoke-free

____ Well-lit with low noise-level (check ventilation & adjacent spaces)

____ Wheelchair users, scooter users, & people with service animals can circulate freely

____ If stadium seating, wheelchair users can be integrated

____ Little glare from windows

____ Table heights of 28”-34” for integrating wheelchair-users

____ Ramped stages with hand-held or adjustable microphones

____ Sound system available (for FM system use)

____ Unobstructed viewer sight lines

____ Many electrical outlets

____ Movable seating, if necessary

Invitations/Registrations

____ Specify level of accessibility

____ Include section for dietary and personal requests

____ Indicate availability of sign language interpreters

____ List charges, if any, for personal assistants

____ Include section for alternative format requests

____ Include request for attendees to refrain from wearing scented products

Materials

____ Handouts are in 14-point type of easily read face (Arial or Verdana)

____ Alternative formats (large print, taped, Braille) available as requested

____ Thick pencils or pens are provided

____ Close-captioned videotapes are used

Food Service

____ Large-print and Braille menus

____ Menus have vegetarian selections

____ Tables arranged with passage space for wheelchairs

(36” between tables; 42” for buffet line clearance)

____ Integrated wheelchair seating

____ Accessible vending machines

____ Buffets: Staff are available to assist

____ Buffets: straws, lightweight cups, and non-sugar beverages or water are available

____ Accessible, local eateries are noted in registration material

____ Drinking fountain nearby with maximum spout height of 36” or cups within reach

Displays

____ Exhibit tables are at wheelchair-viewing height with 72” wide aisles

____ Audio visual displays are captioned or equipped with personal FM system

Telephones

____ Located nearby with one usable by a seated person, and one with adjustable levels

____ TTY access or an available shelf with an outlet

Lodging

____ Accessible rooms available

____ Doors with 32” clean opening and a 5-lb maximum opening force

____ Wheelchair level peepholes

____ Movable furniture

____ Cabinets & TV controls located between 15”-48” above the floor

____ Available deaf kits

____ TV’s are equipped with closed-captioning capabilities

Bathrooms:

____ Water closet has 17”-19” seat height and grab bars to one side and behind

____ Tub with permanent or removable in tub seat, grab bars on back wall and foot end

____ Roll-in shower (30”x60”) or provided with grab bars

____ One wall hung sink with maximum rim or counter height of 34”

____ Sink has space underneath for a forward approach and lever-handed faucets

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