BC Upate: No.53 - New guidance documents on access for people with disabilities

14 February 2007: The Department of Building and Housing and Barrier Free New Zealand Trust have jointly published two guidance booklets entitled:

• The international symbol of access
• Accessible reception and service counters.

The booklets are intended to guide designers, builders, building users and officials on the correct use of the international symbol of access, and to help with the design and installation of accessible reception and service counters. They provide extensive illustrations and practical examples.

Section 120 of the Building Act 2004 requires the international symbol of access to be displayed on buildings that provide access and facilities for persons with disabilities. The Department's booklet offers guidance on the appropriate use of the symbol to satisfy this legal requirement.

Building Code Clause G5 (Interior Environment) requires that people with disabilities be able to carry out their normal activities and processes within buildings. The Clause also requires that buildings be constructed to provide accessible spaces and facilities, and that, where reception counters and desks are provided for public use, at least one counter or desk be accessible.

The Department gets many enquiries from designers, builders, building users and BCAs on how to satisfy this requirement. The new booklet offers advice on how to comply with the Clause and the relevant New Zealand Standard, NZS 4121:2001.

Copies are available from the Department's website www.dbh.govt.nz or by phoning 0800 242 243.