Parking Lots and Sidewalks:

• well lit;

• even surfaces allowing easy access for strollers, wheelchairs, walkers and scooters;

• clear of obstacles such as portable signs, shopping carts, garbage bins, bicycles, etc;

• barrier-free parking spaces (2-car width) clearly shown by designated upright sign on post and pavement painted with blue wheelchair logo;

• accessible placement of curb cuts;

• prevention of bumpers overhanging sidewalks.

In Winter:

• sidewalks, ramps and parking spaces kept clear of ice and snow;

• all access ways not blocked by snow banks.

Entrances and Exits:
Must have one of these:

• self-opening doors;

• accessible push button (both doors);

• doorbell.

Entrance Mats:

• non-skid and lying flat;

• clean and free of water, snow and/or ice.

Entrances:

• well lit; even or level surfaces;

• if stairs present, ramp with safety stop handrails for ramps and steps (best on both sides);

• easy opening doors (types of handles, door weight);

• doors that open and close at a safe speed;

• signs on glass doors marked at eye level

Shelves, Racks and Displays:

• secure and will not move or tip when leaned on;

• placed to allow easy movement around them;

• within reach, or have assistance available.

Signage:

• appropriate signage for all accessible amenities.

Tables:

• accessible to wheelchairs, walkers and scooters.

Floors and Aisles:

• well lit;

• free from slip and trip hazards (e.g. water, ice, broken tiles, uneven surfaces)

• wide enough for wheelchair, walkers, and scooters;

• free of clutter (e.g. boxes, produce, protruding displays, merchandise).

Stairs:
(in and out of building)

• continuous railings firmly attached ____ one side ____both sides ____ ;

• edges shown in contrasting colour, texture; not slippery;

• no carpet or loose tiles;

• wide tread area with rise no more than 6 ½” .

Carts and Baskets:

• available and accessible;

• easy to manage.

Public Washrooms:
(especially if food is served)

• well lit;

• clear sign showing accessible washroom

• wheelchair accessible (including an attendant);

• grab bars, raised toilet seat, lowered counter height, mirrors, soap/towel dispensary, etc.

Visual Impairment:

• large print on all signs;

• Braille by handles of washrooms, elevator

• assistance available when needed.

Other recommendations:

• seating in entrances and exits;

• phone available and accessible;

• price tags facing up on lower shelves and down on upper shelves;

• provide scooter cart;

• include a family washroom.