Accessibility Requirements

Purpose

Accessibility Requirements ensure that Student Halls of Residence provide safe, equitable and inclusive environments that can be used independently and comfortably by people of all abilities. Facilities should support accessibility, mobility, dignity and participation for residents and visitors.

 

Design Objectives

Student Halls of Residence should:

• Provide equitable access to accommodation and shared facilities.

• Ensure safe and convenient movement throughout the residential environment.

• Support independent use by people with disabilities and diverse mobility needs.

• Promote inclusion, dignity and user comfort.

• Incorporate accessible pathways, entrances and circulation routes.

• Provide accessible bathrooms, kitchens and communal facilities.

• Ensure accessibility requirements are integrated into the overall design rather than treated as add-ons.

• Comply with applicable building regulations, accessibility standards and university requirements.

• Support emergency evacuation and refuge provisions for all occupants.

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Typical Accessibility Features

A student residential facility should typically include:

• Accessible building entrances.

• Step-free access to primary circulation routes.

• Accessible parking spaces (where provided).

• Ramps and handrails where level changes occur.

• Accessible bedrooms and residential units.

• Accessible bathrooms and shower facilities.

• Accessible kitchen and communal facilities.

• Wide doorways and circulation spaces suitable for wheelchair access.

• Accessible switches, power outlets and controls.

• Lift access where buildings are multi-storey.

• Tactile and visual wayfinding signage.

• Adequate lighting throughout circulation routes.

• Emergency warning systems incorporating visual and audible alerts.

• Accessible laundry facilities.

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