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 3.2 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 3.9.1 The Importance of Safety 3.9.2 Safety Considerations 3.9.3 Slip Resistance     3.9.4 Safety for Persons with Visual Impairment 3.9.5 Importance of Maintenance     3.10 Management and Maintenance 3.9.4 Safety for Persons with Visual Impairment     The conveyance of information is one of the most important aspects to consider when designing for persons with visual impairment. Since visual messages are not useful to them for identification of orientation and direction, clear information on way finding needs to be conveyed to enable them to find their own way.   The incorporation of clear voice messages or audible signals as orientation and directional guide is important to assist the visually impaired (3.9.4a). Other useful tools include sufficient Braille signs at appropriate locations, tactile guide paths, and/or handrails as road guides.   Signage should also be conspicuous, with high luminous contrast, and be of sufficient size for use by the visually impaired. Refer to Section 3.5 — Way Finding, Orientation and Signage.       3.9.4a  Audible signal for the visually impaired     3.9.5 Importance of Maintenance     A perfectly designed facility incorporating universal accessibility considerations still cannot be sustained without good management and maintenance. Facilities and equipment installed in external areas are exposed to the effects of weather; hence the rate of deterioration and damage may be greater than indoor installations.   The outdoor facilities, if not properly and frequently maintained and preserved, may easily turn into unsafe elements posing hazards to users (3.9.5a).   The upkeep of soft landscaping and water areas, for example, is essential for the safety and enjoyment by users. Damaged furniture and fittings should be replaced promptly to eliminate any danger to users. Refer to Section 3.10 — Management and Maintenance.       3.9.5a  Poor maintenance of facilities may render them unusable or hazardous