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21/06/2006

New Publication - International Best Practices in Universal Design: A Global Review

International Best Practices in Universal Design: A Global Review

The Canadian Human Rights Commission made public today a report on international best practices in universal design at the World Urban Forum in Vancouver.

Entitled International Best Practices in Universal Design: A Global Review, this report gives an insight into the latest trends in universal design. On a very practical level, it provides architects and designers with the tools and options to design buildings that are accessible to all users. It documents accessibility criteria in building codes and standards in Canada and around the world. It outlines the space requirements to accommodate power wheelchairs and scooters, as well as the requirement for warning systems to alert people who are blind or visual impaired to their environment. It also provides insight into how to design a building utilizing colour contrasts and changes in textures to make a building function better for everyone.

According to the United Nations, over 600 million people, or 10% of the world’s population have a disability of one form or another. Almost all these people would benefit greatly from improvements in the accessibility of the built environment.

The Review was commissioned by the Canadian Human Rights Commission’s Strategic Initiatives Program and received funding support from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Human Resources ans Social Development Canada (Office for Disability Issues) and the Treasury Board of Canada. Research and writing of the report was undertaken by Betty Dion Enterprises Limited, an Ottawa firm recognized as world class experts in universal design issues.

Created in 2004, the Commission’s Strategic Initiatives Program looks into systemic issues that have an impact on a group of people or on the overall Canadian human rights system and proposes action and solutions to address these issues.

The report is primarily intended for technical experts. Copies are available on CD or in print, on request. To obtain a copy, please fill in the request form.