Accessibility doesn’t only mean ease of movement, but it also covers needs related to seeing, hearing, understanding and communication. An accessible environment supports everyone’s well-being and the functionality of the built environment.
Our experts combine their accessibility expertise with the design of new construction and renovation, as well as the design of yards, streets and areas. The development needs identified in surveys are easy to carry straight into the project’s further design with us.
We can assess accessibility and guide design already at the project’s planning stage, when shortcomings are easier and cheaper to fix than in a finished building.
Accessibility surveys for buildings, streets, yards and nature sites
An accessibility survey identifies the points in the built environment that prevent accessible movement and use. We carry out surveys for buildings and yards, street environments and public areas, and nature sites such as outdoor trails and hiking areas.
For surveys of buildings and their outdoor areas, we use the ESKEH method developed by the Finnish Association of People with Physical Disabilities (Invalidiliitto). It is an objective and universal way to assess the accessibility of the built environment from the perspective of different user groups. The ESKEH criteria are based on accessibility regulations, guidelines and recommendations. The survey measures, among other things, distances, slopes, door opening force, and lighting and sound levels. The assessment covers, for example, the consistency and continuity of wayfinding, how well the site stands out from its surroundings, the sound environment, safety and alarm systems, and how well the space works for its intended use. For surveys of street areas, public areas and nature sites, the method is chosen to suit the site.
The resulting report describes the site’s current state of accessibility, its shortcomings, and proposed measures in order of urgency.
How an accessibility survey proceeds
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We gather the background information and agree on the scope of the survey with you.
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We make one or more survey visits.
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We compile a final report in which the findings and proposed measures are prioritised.
Accessibility walkthroughs
In an accessibility walkthrough, the site is gone through on location with an expert, and the key points for accessibility are made visible together with the site’s users or the project’s decision-makers. A walkthrough suits, for example, the early stage of a project, or a situation where you want a quick overview before a more extensive survey.
Accessibility in housing companies
When major renovations are being planned in a housing company, accessibility should be included in the project planning right from the start. For the board and the property manager, this is above all a matter of anticipation. When the solutions are coordinated with other renovation work, it is possible to improve everyday convenience, strengthen the property’s appeal and help preserve the value of the apartments in the long term.
Jenni Jakola functional planning coordinator+358 40 141 8273 jenni.jakola
