Good access means good business

December 10th, 2012

Tasman and Nelson councils have produced a Good Business checklist aimed at making businesses more accessible for people with disabilities or impairments.

Under the heading "Good Access = Good Business", the document, launched at last week's Accessibility for All (A4A) forum, includes a self-assessment guide for business owners to check how accessible their business is, and as a guide when planning improvements to their premises.

The aim is to highlight the legal (Building Act 2004) and community expectations of fair access for all members of the community to all goods, services, entertainment and recreational opportunities.

Accessibility not only means access for people with disabilities; it includes access and usability for customers with strollers, visual or hearing impairment, progressive conditions such as arthritis and those with sports injuries etc.

"Accessible or ‘barrier free’ design ensures efficiency, comfort and convenience for everyone. It is a practical matter and not an emotional issue," the document says.

The checklist includes sections for:

Nearby parking and paths leading to the building
Entrances and exits, including doors, lighting and handrails
Indoor and outdoor stairs and elevators
Floors, aisles and corridors
Public washrooms
Security and spaces between shelves, racks and displays
Communication and signage
Customer service
Health and safety

You can download the Accessibility document by clicking here.

Our Town Motueka's Howie Timms represented local businesses at the forum.

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