Eavesdropping on Canadians Contemplating Design for All

[jesse_the_k]

This example is better labeled “Design for none.” Not only was this stairway straight from MCEscher’s portfolio, it guarantees an unsafe trip for all users, of either ramps or stairs.

The brightly colored ramps from the Stop Gap ramp project could be an answer, but they’re definitely steep, and many manual chair and walker users would have a hard time using them. (Which creates yet another opportunity for my least favorite response to an access request, “Gee, everybody else seems to be able to use this fine.”)

Certainly in the Madison Central Business district, at least half the older shops have one step entrance. I’ve talked to numerous shop owners about installing a temporary use ramp, and they all think it’s a good idea and then ignore me.

This post pictures and ponders the drawbacks to any “just one step” ramp initiative (as opposed to a permanent redesign which obviates the step.

Comments

[libskrat]

Eesh. I don't have trained eyes, but even I saw the lack of handrails immediately.