DISABILITY AWARENESS and the role of the builder

In the world of architectural design, building and construction, environmental and socio-economic influences play a large role in both influencing aesthetics, trends and designs, often reflecting cultural trends in the brick and steel of our environment. What does seem to be a consistent in architectural design, however, is the lack of practical consideration for People with a Disability. This, hopefully, looks set to change over the coming years, as several pieces of legislation are finally aligning themselves with the recognition that People with a Disability also have rights – rights that allow fair access to employment, facilities, healthcare, and buildings, to say the least. Once again, buildings should start to reflect this ideology, and I must say that from a personal perspective, that this is a long overdue but well received trend.
 
The harsh reality however, is that there are still many environmental, attitudinal and organizational barriers that prevent the integration of people with a disability. Whilst many companies are making great progress in terms of removing these barriers through environmental accessibility audits and ‘disability awareness’ campaigns, the practical environment is still our biggest obstacle. What is needed is greater pro-activity on the part of building and transport regulations, with penalties imposed for non-compliance in terms of accessibility, employers holding their suppliers accountable for removing barriers within their own environment, and a review of the spirit of inclusion as promoted by the relevant Labour Legislation.
 
In my personal experience as a wheelchair user, and in my capacity as a business owner who consults to companies offering Environmental Accessibility Audits (as part of our recruitment and assessment services), I am amazed to see how many buildings that claim to be “disabled friendly” are, in fact, far from it. It often just takes a ‘practically empathetic’ approach to create awareness eg. If you are pushing yourself up a ramp that has a 45 degree gradient, and then face a heavy swing door at the top, you soon realize that this takes more than creative problem solving to master! The same applies to the ‘finishing touches’ on a build that make all the difference – putting a plastic toilet seat on a toilet is not a practical idea when it has to ‘seat’ somebody who has to drag their full body weight onto it from a wheelchair. The sound of snapping hinges is a frightening thing when poised in that position. From the height to the light switches, to the surface used in the car park, to the gradient of each ramp, it is the person translating the plans into a practical build that can make all the difference as to whether an organization, shopping centre, hotel, etc open their doors to people with a disability, making SA a truly inclusive society.
 
For more information about increasing your awareness, contact Lesa directly, or take a look at our website www.blplacements.co.za
 
Written by :
Lesa Bradshaw.
Managing Member of Bradshaw LeRoux Consulting.
Tel: 031 765 2547 and 083 252 6486
info@bradshawleroux.co.za
www.blplacements.co.za