11.1 - Types of Accessibility Audits
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Pre-construction Audit
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Let's start by discussing what a pre-construction audit is. It involves reviewing design drawings to ensure they comply with accessibility guidelines before any construction begins.
Why is it important to do this before construction starts?
Great question! It helps identify any potential accessibility issues early on, which can save time and money later. Think of it as a preventive measure.
So, if we find a problem during the audit, we can fix it before building starts?
Exactly! It’s much easier to make changes on paper than to alter the structure once it's built. Remember, 'Fix it at the design phase, avoid a costly mess!'
What specific things do auditors look for in the designs?
Auditors check for layout, accessible entries, the gradient of ramps, and other relevant standards. Always keep in mind the acronym 'PARS' - Plans, Accessibility, Routes, and Standards!
In summary, pre-construction audits ensure a foundation for accessible design and help avoid complications later.
Post-construction Audit
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Next, let's dive into post-construction audits. After a building is completed, these audits inspect the physical site.
What do we check during these audits?
We check entry points, pathways, and compliance with accessibility requirements. It’s like doing a final check before handing the keys to the new owners.
What happens if something doesn’t meet the standards?
If issues are found, they must be addressed before the building can be occupied. This ensures that no one faces unexpected barriers. Think of it as 'Building for the future!'
Can we use technology during this audit?
Absolutely! Tools like accessibility checklists and laser measuring tools can help streamline the audit process. In summary, post-construction audits validate that what was designed has been effectively realized.
Functional Audit
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Finally, let’s explore functional audits. These go beyond physical compliance to evaluate the usability of the space for PwDs.
What do we look for in a functional audit?
We assess how individuals experience the space—like wayfinding options, the clarity of signage, and the ease of navigation.
Why are user experiences so important?
User experience is essential because even if a building meets all codes, it must still be usable for those with disabilities. Remember 'User first - design second!'.
So we want to make sure everyone feels welcome?
Exactly! Functional audits ensure inclusivity and help gauge how helpful the design truly is. To summarize, these audits analyze the experience and functionality to enhance accessibility.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
Accessibility audits are crucial assessments designed to evaluate compliance with accessibility standards. This section describes three types of audits: pre-construction, post-construction, and functional audits, each serving a unique role in ensuring that buildings are accessible to all individuals, particularly persons with disabilities.
Detailed
Accessibility audits are systematic evaluations aimed at determining how well buildings and environments adhere to established accessibility standards. This section categorizes accessibility audits into three main types:
- Pre-construction Audit: This type of audit is conducted during the planning stages of a building project. It involves a review of design drawings and plans to ensure they meet accessibility criteria before construction begins. The proactive approach helps identify potential issues that could later incur additional costs or changes during the construction phase.
- Post-construction Audit: Once construction is completed, a post-construction audit is performed. This involves a physical inspection of the site to verify that the actual construction aligns with the approved accessibility specifications. It assesses aspects such as entrances, circulation paths, and sanitation facilities to ensure compliance with legal and best practice standards.
- Functional Audit: This type of audit goes beyond physical inspections; it evaluates how usable and functional a space is for persons with disabilities (PwDs). It considers user experience factors, such as wayfinding and navigation, to assess if the environment accommodates the needs of all users effectively.
The importance of these audits cannot be overstated, as they foster a built environment that adheres to legal mandates and inclusive design principles, ultimately ensuring dignity and independence for all individuals.
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Pre-construction Audit
Chapter 1 of 3
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Chapter Content
• Pre-construction Audit: Reviews design drawings.
Detailed Explanation
A pre-construction audit is an evaluation that occurs before any physical construction begins. During this audit, professionals review the architectural plans and design drawings to ensure that they meet accessibility standards. This means checking whether the building's design includes accessible features such as ramps for wheelchair users, appropriately sized doorways, and clear pathways. This step helps identify potential accessibility issues before the actual building begins.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine you’re trying to bake a cake using a recipe. Before you start mixing ingredients, you read through the entire recipe to make sure you have everything and understand the steps. Similarly, a pre-construction audit helps architects and builders ensure all necessary accessibility features are included in the plans before any work starts.
Post-construction Audit
Chapter 2 of 3
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Chapter Content
• Post-construction Audit: Physical inspection of the site.
Detailed Explanation
The post-construction audit takes place after the building is completed. This involves a detailed physical inspection of the site to ensure that all accessibility features included in the design have been implemented correctly. Inspectors check for compliance with the accessibility standards, such as verifying the slope of ramps, widths of doors, and the presence of tactile indicators. This step is crucial as it ensures that the building is truly accessible for all users.
Examples & Analogies
Think of someone going for a test drive in a new car to see if it works as advertised. During a post-construction audit, inspectors are like those test drivers who verify that what was promised in the design—like smooth ramps and wide doors—actually works in reality.
Functional Audit
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Chapter Content
• Functional Audit: Evaluates usability for PwDs.
Detailed Explanation
The functional audit focuses on how well the building meets the actual needs of persons with disabilities (PwDs). This evaluation involves testing the functionality of accessible features by simulating the experiences of various users—such as someone using a wheelchair or a person with visual impairments. This ensures that not only are features present, but they are effective and practical for users. For example, inspectors may assess whether the layout allows for easy navigation and whether signage is clear and helpful.
Examples & Analogies
It’s like a user experience test for a video game. Before a game is released, testers play through it to make sure all features work smoothly and are enjoyable for players. Similarly, a functional audit makes sure that accessibility features are user-friendly for those with disabilities.
Key Concepts
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Pre-construction Audit: Review of design plans for compliance.
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Post-construction Audit: Inspection to validate construction against design.
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Functional Audit: Evaluation of usability for individuals with disabilities.
Examples & Applications
A pre-construction audit might reveal that a proposed entrance ramp is too steep, prompting redesign before construction.
A post-construction audit might find that the installed tactile indicators do not match the approved specifications.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
Audit before you start to build, makes all future access skills.
Stories
Imagine Bob, a developer, who conducts thorough audits before building to avoid costly mistakes in the future.
Memory Tools
Remember 'P-P-F' for Pre, Post, Functional - the types of audits you need.
Acronyms
Use the acronym AUP for Accessibility, Usability, and Physical review.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Accessibility Audit
A systematic evaluation to assess how well buildings and environments comply with accessibility standards.
- Preconstruction Audit
An evaluation of design drawings before construction to ensure compliance with accessibility guidelines.
- Postconstruction Audit
A physical inspection of a building after construction to verify adherence to approved accessibility standards.
- Functional Audit
An assessment of the usability of a space for persons with disabilities, analyzing user experience and navigation.
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