Refer to Section 2.7 Obtaining Services in Public Spaces for further information. However, the accessibility of some elements related to the provision of services to the public, such as service counters, fixed queuing guides and waiting areas, falls under the Standard. Within a building, the accessibility of most elements is regulated by the OBC. Refer to Section 2.1 Exterior Paths of Travel for further information. The accessibility of pedestrian routes within the exterior public realm is covered by the Standard. In some cases of land development, it is possible that the accessibility of some exterior pedestrian routes will be regulated by the OBC and others will be addressed by the Standard. It also addresses the accessibility of some building elements not covered by the OBC, related to the provision of services to the public. The Standard addresses accessibility within newly constructed or redeveloped spaces used by the public, mostly within the exterior environment. For example, the OBC regulates the construction of buildings, and includes requirements for barrier-free paths of travel from accessible entrances to parking lots.
Jurisdiction of the OBC is different from the Standard.
#Ontario building code accessibility standards update#
Washrooms: the amendments update the requirements for barrier-free/universal washrooms, including requirements for public door operators new mounting height and location requirements for washroom accessories new fold-down grab bar options to allow for transfer space on both sides of toilet requirement of an L-shaped grab bar in all cases and increasing the minimum required clear floor area. This includes the inside of all barrier-free/universal washrooms. Visual fire safety devices: amendments expand the range of areas where visual fire alarms will be required. Exception: Restaurants will not be required to provide access to upper floors if the same amenities are provided on all floors. These are in addition to existing Ontario building codes.īarrier-free path of travel: includes new requirements for power-door operators at entrances & vestibule entrances updated door width, passing hall space, and curb ramp dimensions Īccess to all storeys within a building: this change will require elevator access to all floors within a building. They apply to newly constructed buildings and existing buildings that are to be extensively renovated. The amendments came into effect on January 1, 2015. Recent amendments to Ontario’s Building Code
This restricts a wheelchair from pulling up to the sink area. Often the outside door will have an automatic door opener, but the vestibule door will not.Ĭoat hooks that are placed too high in bathroom stalls – lower them, especially in accessible stalls.Ĭabinets under the sink. This can pose a safety hazard if this means entering through the kitchen.Ībundant space to maneuver once inside the restaurant, especially between tables. Some businesses have a step out front and encourage wheelchair users to enter through a ground level door at the back. Removable chairs (as opposed to booths) allow for extra space to be created. Here’s what they had to say! THE GOOD:įriendly, flexible staff- If staff are willing to help find solutions, many people report that minor accessibility issues can be overlooked. We asked wheelchair users what they look for in an accessible space.
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