Purpose:
The
purpose of the Accessibility Code of Pakistan is to ensure that buildings and
public spaces are designed and constructed in a way that is accessible to all
individuals, including those with disabilities and the elderly. The code seeks
to safeguard public health and welfare, provide safe means of egress during
emergencies, and promote inclusion and equal participation of persons with disabilities
in all aspects of society.
Scope:
The
code applies to all new buildings and public spaces, as well as existing
buildings and public spaces undergoing major renovations or alterations. The
code covers a wide range of features, including but not limited to accessible
entrances, ramps, elevators, restrooms, parking spaces, signage, emergency
egress, handrails, grab bars, non-slip surfaces, and information and
communication technology (ICT) accessibility.
Intent:
The
intent of the code is to establish minimum requirements and standards for
accessibility, to ensure that buildings and facilities are designed and
constructed in a way that is accessible to everyone, regardless of their age or
ability. The code sets out the minimum requirements for accessibility and
provides guidelines for compliance.
Salient
Features:
Accessible
Design: The code requires that buildings and
public spaces be designed in a way that is accessible to persons with
disabilities. This includes features such as ramps, accessible entrances, and
elevators, as well as accessible restrooms, parking spaces, and
telecommunications services.
Signage:
The code requires that signage be provided in a manner that is accessible to
all individuals, including those with visual impairments. This includes the use
of tactile signs and Braille, as well as high contrast and easy-to-read fonts
and symbols.
Accessible
transport: The code requires that transport
services, including public transport, be accessible to persons with
disabilities. This includes the provision of accessible vehicles, such as buses
with wheelchair ramps and low floors, as well as accessible train and stations
with ramps, elevators, and tactile paving. The code also requires that
transport service providers provide accessible information on routes,
schedules, and fares, including using accessible websites and mobile apps.
Emergency
Egress: The code requires that buildings be
designed with safe means of egress in case of emergencies. This includes the
provision of accessible exits, refuge areas, and evacuation plans that are
accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities.
Training:
The code requires that architects, engineers, and other professionals involved
in the design and construction of buildings receive training on accessibility
standards and best practices.
Stakeholder
Engagement/ Consultation: The code encourages the
participation of persons with disabilities and their representative
organizations in the design, planning, and evaluation of buildings and public
spaces.
Accommodation
of Elderly: The code also addresses the needs of
the elderly population in terms of accessibility and safe means of egress
during emergencies. It requires the provision of handrails, grab bars, non-slip
surfaces, and other features that enhance safety and mobility.
Information
& Communication Technology (ICT) Accessibility: The
code also covers accessibility of ICT for persons with disabilities. It
requires that websites, electronic documents, and other ICT tools be designed
in a manner that is accessible to all individuals, including those with
disabilities.
Enforcement:
The code provides for penalties and fines for non-compliance, and establishes
an inspection and certification process to ensure that buildings and public
spaces are accessible to all individuals
Conclusion:
The
Accessibility Code of Pakistan is an important piece of legislation that aims
to promote accessibility and inclusion for all individuals, particularly those
with disabilities and the elderly. The code establishes minimum requirements
and standards for accessibility and provides for enforcement and penalties for
non-compliance. By encouraging stakeholder engagement, training, and the use of
universal design principles, the code seeks to promote a more inclusive and
accessible built environment for all.