How To Make An Event Accessible For Disabled

How To Make An Event Accessible For Disabled

Published on Tuesday 9th August 2022

There are many important considerations when creating an accessible event. Modifications and special provisions should be implemented to remove barriers for disabled participants, attendees, and staff.

There are many important considerations when creating an accessible event. Modifications and special provisions should be implemented to remove barriers for disabled participants, attendees, and staff.

Venue type Access Suggestions & Provisions
Temporary Outdoor Spaces, e.g., a field, farm or an estate garden.

- Ensure to have accessible parking spaces available at a close distance to the festivities. 

- A temporary hard flooring can be laid over uneven or boggy terrain, reducing the risk of injuries and tripping hazards; and will prevent wheelchair chairs / mobility scooters from getting stuck. 
 
Temporary accessible toilets and changing facilities should be considered and are typically a modular construction.  
 
Temporary modular ramps and step units are often required for such buildings to overcome external door thresholds.  

If there will be a stage, ensure temporary ramped access is available.

- For larger events with live music, consider a viewing platform to allow disabled spectators to see performances from a raised height, away from large crowds.
 
- Access to platforms can be achieved with modular ramps & steps. The products has telescopic legs that can be adjusted to match different threshold heights. Plus, concrete pads can be added underneath to ensure rigidity in muddy conditions.  

-For camping events, an accessible campsite should be a short distance from the festivities, on level ground.   
 
- The camp should be well-lit from the early evenings right through to the early mornings, with stewards on hand to help and charging station where disabled campers can charge electric mobility equipment. 
 
For larger events, consider having a quiet space that attendees with learning disabilities (such as autism) can retreat to; it can also act as a space for individuals with medical conditions to take medicine (such as insulin for diabetes).
 
- Ensure the event is appropriately lit. The deaf and hard of hearing may rely on lip reading, and dim lighting will cause unnecessary difficulties. 
 
Furthermore, generally good lighting is needed for everyone to see throughout the event and for individuals to avoid tripping hazards.

Consider accessibility event signage and literature. Make sure to choose a supplier who will design and print in accordance with specific standards and fully comply with UK Government and NHS guidelines.

 - Allow disabled guests to reserve parking spaces and seating in advance.

Permanent Buildings, e.g., historic sites, schools, theatres, churches, community halls and function rooms.

Public buildings by law under the Equalities Act 2010 should already have many permanent measures in place to allow people of all abilities to access and experience the services provided. 

However, for events with large gatherings, further additional temporary provisions may be necessary, such as: 

- Temporary wheelchair access from an alternative door allows disabled attendees to avoid risks associated with mass crowds using the main entry points. Furthermore, attendees can access a building at their own pace without unnecessary stress. 
 
- Additional accessible toilets and changing facilities with ramped access. Ensure to choose a supplier/ manufacturer with a system that fully complies with Part K and M of the Building Regulations and British standards.      
 
- Appropriate accessible signage to integrate alternative access routes and the location for toilet facilities. 

Make sure to choose a supplier who will design and print in accordance with specific standards and fully comply with UK Government and NHS guidelines.
 
-Allow disabled guests to reserve parking spaces and seating in advance.
 
-Invest in event-specific literature that mentions where the disabled access routes are and any other additional accessibility information such as a venue hearing loop system. This will help disabled attendees plan their visit.

 

Temporary Wheelchair Access To Events – Rapid Ramp

We manufacture temporary, fully compliant modular ramps and event steps that you can hire.

Both systems are designed with the highest standard of provisions to prevent falls, collisions, and injuries in public settings.

Removal is included in our hire package, and products can match the hire period of any on-site portable buildings and marquees.

Free Quick Quote

Request a quick quote or email [email protected] with the full project address, drawings, photos and contact details.

Success stories

London E-Prix, ExCeL London

 

 

Mohammedi Park Complex, Northolt 

  

 

University Graduation Ceremony

 

 

The Old Palace, Canterbury Cathedral

 

 


THE UK’S EXPERTS IN MODULAR RAMP SYSTEMS.

Rapid Ramp

Riverside Works, Church Ln, Etchingham, TN19 7AS

Hours:
8am - 5pm, Monday to Friday