Arch 145 | Building Utilities V: Health and Safety in Buildings Prepared by KDSuam

Universal Design
Is a design concept that recognizes and values the different abilities, ages, cultures of people, in the design of products, built environments and information systems To simplify life for everyone by making products, communications, and built environments usable by as many people as possible. Pinalawak na accessibility not just limited to the differently-abled /disabled people

Factors that Brought About Universal Design

A. Demographics 1. average life span of man increased from 47 (in the 1900s) to 76 (at present) 2. advances in medicine enabled people to survive life-threatening diseases (cured patients were left with disabilities for life.) 3. more people are now living with disabilities due to accidents B. Legislation laws passed by different countries USA 1. The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 - Removal of what is perceived to be obstacles for employment to people with disabilities 2. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 - Made the discrimination of people with disabilities illegal. 3. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975 - Guaranteed free education for all children with disabilities 4. Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 - All new multi-family housing be made accessible (apartments, condominiums, etc.) 5. American Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) - Promoted public awareness on the rights of people with disabilities 6. Telecommunications Act of 1996 - Mandated that telecommunications equipment to be designed as usable by people with disabilities PHILIPPINES 1. Accessibility Act (BP 344) - aims to enhance the mobility of persons with disabilities 2. Magna Carta for Disabled Persons (RA 7277) - provides for the integration of disabled persons into the mainstream of society C. Economic Factors 1. Because of globalization, the markets of products are not only focused on one locality. 2. Growth of consumer base 3. A need to design products that will cater to all kinds of people 4. Effective marketing tool 4. Social Factors 1. Growing education on the equal rights/independence among individuals

Prepared by Krystel Deane S. Suam

Arch 145 | Building Utilities V: Health and Safety in Buildings Prepared by KDSuam

Accessible Design VS. Universal Design

Individual approach Specific solution to each group of persons More on following design standards that are prescriptive and needs to be reinforced Specialized Caters only to a special group of people Integrated approach One design solution to cater to all the needs of different groups of people Adjustable and adaptable to meet varied personal preferences User-based design (considers the widest range of peoples abilities and needs)

7 Principles o Universal Design

1. Equitable Use - Design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities - Examples: o Water closets with automatic flush o Power doors 2. Flexibility in Use - Design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities - Examples: o Automated Telling Machines (ATMs) 3. Simple and Intuitive Use - The use of the design is easy to understand regardless of users experience, knowledge, language, skill, or current concentration level - Examples: o Instruction manual (in aircrafts/planes) that contain purely graphics 4. Perceptible Information - The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user regardless of ambient conditions or the users sensory abilities - Examples o Voice communication and signage in airports and train stations 5. Tolerance for Error - The design minimized hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintentional actions - Examples: o A double cut door key easily inserted into a recessed keyhole in either of two ways o An undo feature in a computer software that allows the user to correct mistakes 6. Low Physical Effort - The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue - Examples: o Touch lamps operated without a switch o Level handles on doors 7. Size and Space for Approach and Use - Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation and use regardless of users body size, posture and mobility. - Examples: o Wide gates at Metrorail stations that accommodate all users. o Controls on the front of appliances and building elements
Prepared by Krystel Deane S. Suam