Lighting and switches should be standards throughout so that a child upon entering a room or area instinctively knows where to find the light switch. The same principles applies to socket outlets.
The use of glass must be carefully controlled, using safety glass if required. Door springs must be avoided because of the vicious swing that can result from their use.
Sanitary ware must be strong, self cleaning & simple to design. Fittings must be placed at lower levels for wheel chair & semi ambulant users. Similarly mirrors and shelves must be within easy reach to avoid accidents.
‘Jazzy’ interiors are not recommended as children with visual difficulties can become confused and even frightened.
Guard rails, grip handles, hand rails, chair rails and barrier are to be used as necessary. Their function is to assist the child in overcoming the deficiency of his physical handicap
The floor covering and finish should be free from any obstructions that could cause accidents. All finishes must be smooth, and unpolished to avoid slipping, especially on ramps between two different floor levels.
Walls should be hard-wearing material, easily cleaned or replaced. Even if a hand rail is provided, dirty finger marks are an everyday occurrence for children seeking support or reassurance from a wall. If hand rails are provided they should be continuous, even across door openings where they can be fixed to the does as a grip rail.
Stairs should be avoided unless for therapeutic reasons.
Even out side the surface should be smooth with adequate rail barriers provided at change of level as necessary
corridors should be wider to facilitate wheel chair traffic
Participants