Contents ----------------- Preface ----------------- Introduction 1.1 Background 1.2 The Development of “Universal Accessibility” 1.3 Objectives 1.4 Study Methods and Framework ----------------- Universal Accessibility in the Built Environment 2.1 The Challenge in Hong Kong 2.2 Aging Population 2.3 Universal Accessibility in External Areas, Open Spaces and Green Spaces 2.4 Major Issues 2.5 The Way Forward ----------------- Best Practices and Guidelines 3.1 Access Route 3.2 Connectivity and Interfacing Elements 3.3 Landscaped Spaces 3.4 Furniture, Equipment and Fittings 3.5 Way Finding, Orientation and Signage 3.6 Detectable Surfaces 3.7 Colour and Luminous Contrast 3.8 Lighting 3.9 Safety 3.10 Management and Maintenance ----------------- Photo Gallery 4.1 Access Route 4.2 Connectivity and Interfacing Elements 4.3 Landscaped Spaces 4.4 Furniture, Equipment and Fittings 4.5 Way Finding, Orientation and Signage 4.6 Detectable Surfaces 4.7 Colour and Luminous Contrast 4.8 Lighting ----------------- Appendices A1 Case Study 1 - Rehabilitation Complex in Wong Chuk Hang A2 Case Study 2 - An External Public Space in Ma On Shan ----------------- Acknowledgements ----------------- References ----------------- View or Download PDF

3. Best Practices and Guidelines     3.1 Access Route 3.1.1 Introduction     3.1.2 Design Considerations   3.1.2.1 Dimension   3.1.2.2 Layout   3.1.2.3 Travel Path   3.1.2.4 Safety     3.1.3 Surface Treatment 3.1.4 Surface Drainage 3.1.5 Sensory and Psychological Needs 3.1.6 Elements along a Travel Path 3.2 Connectivity and Interfacing Elements 3.3 Landscaped Spaces 3.4 Furniture, Equipment and Fittings 3.5 Way Finding, Orientation and Signage 3.6 Detectable Surfaces 3.7 Colour and Luminous Contrast 3.8 Lighting 3.9 Safety 3.10 Management and Maintenance 3.1.2.4 Safety     Safety along the entire travel journey is of great importance to all users. This aspect should be carefully considered when developing the access plan. The following are some points to pay attention to:   (a) Obstructions e.g., bollards, street hydrants, should be positioned so that they do not encroach onto the travel path. Such obstructions should have colour contrast with the surroundings. (b) Manholes, gratings, drains, should be securely fixed and flush with the ground surface. (c) Tree grilles at ground surface level should be covered with suitable materials and fixed flush with adjacent ground surface. Raised tree pits should be cane detectable and preferably be provided with appropriate warning (3.1.2.4a). (d) Furniture and fixtures should not protrude onto the access route and should be recessed from the path of travel (3.1.2.4b). (e) Hazards along the walkway, e.g., construction sites, must be properly cordoned off by protective barriers with colour contrast to the surroundings. The base of the barrier should be cane detectable. Where diversion of travel path is necessary, proper signage should be provided to guide users to the alternative passage. (f) Change in levels should be clearly identified by visual and tactile warnings. (g) Protective barriers should be provided if there is a vertical drop next to the travel path (3.1.2.4c). (h) Adequate lighting should be provided along the entire travel path. However, lamp poles should not obstruct the access route (3.1.2.4d). There should not be any drastic change in illumination levels between different areas. Refer to Section 3.8 — Lighting.         3.1.2.4a  Tactile warning strips around planter along the access route   3.1.2.4b  Entrance gate recessed into the wall at park entrance providing clear and unobstructed access                     3.1.2.4c  Protective barrier at vertical drop next to travel path   3.1.2.4d Lamp pole obstructing the access route is hazardous to users, particularly for those using the handrail