Accessible OHIO: Top 5 ways to prevent accessibility barriers

At Ohio University, we embrace that we have a collective responsibility to create the opportunity for people with disabilities to have an accessible and inclusive experience whether a student, employee, visitor, or community member. 

There are many simple ways we can all contribute to the development of an accessible and inclusive environment.

Accessible OHIO: It’s What We Do highlights a series of actions that any of us may take – no expertise required!

What are the top 5 ways to prevent accessibility barriers with trash cans and other movable items? 

Items like trash cans, boxes, and furniture are easily moved and sometimes create barriers when they impede the path of travel, block an entrance or make an aisle too narrow to navigate a space. Here are some easy ways to place objects so they do not create a barrier.

1.    Place items (signs, boxes, merchandise displays, etc.) out of the path of travel keeping the path at least 36 inches wide.

2.    Do not place items like trash bins under accessible sinks in the restroom or within the accessible stall, if it obstructs a person’s ability to enter or exit the stall using a mobility device.  

3.    Do not prop open a door with something that narrows the door entrance to under 32 inches.

4.    Avoid placing items on top of the accessible counter, in front of door openers or under lights switches. 

5.    Review your space everyday to move anything which creates a barrier. 
  
If you need assistance in reviewing your space to minimize barriers created from moveable objects, please contact Office for University Accessibility at 740-593-2620 or access@ohio.edu. 
 
Creating a more Accessible OHIO: It’s What We Do.