Universal Access Audits

What is an Access Audit?
Click here to view a sample audit report

An Access Audit is a survey which identifies the barriers that prevent disabled people having full access in the built environment. The audit provides recommended solutions for adaptation.

Conducting an access audit is the best way of finding out how accessible a building, park or streetscape is for as wide a range of users as possible.

The Access Audit highlights the physical features which may be a barrier to access for those with hearing or visual impairments, wheelchair users, parents with buggies, those with restricted mobility, of short stature, in fact the range of abilities and disabilities found in any group of building users.

What are the Typical Physical Barriers to Access in a Building?

The most common barriers highlighted are often the most simple to rectify. Poor lighting, colour contrast or signage make a building difficult to access for most people, but especially those with visual impairments. The lack of level access, good handrail systems, induction loops and an accessible toilet are also common barriers which people face when using a building.