Guidelines

Drinking Fountains

1. Is there at least one fountain with clear floor space of at least 30 by 48 inches in front?

At least one fountain must be accessible.

2. Is there one fountain with its spout no higher than 36 inches from the ground and another with a standard height spout or a single "hi/lo" fountain?

A spout that is at this height is accessible. Fountains with options are quite acceptable.

3. Are controls mounted on the front or on the side near the front edge and operable with one closed fist?

Controls must be accessible as well.

4. Does the fountain protrude no more than four inches into the circulation space?

If so, a cane detectable barrier must be placed on each side for the benefit of visually impaired persons.

Telephone

5. If pay or public phones are provided, is there clear floor space of at least 30 by 48 inches in front of at least one phone?

Such space allows access to the phone by persons with mobility impairments.

6. Is the highest operable part of the phone no higher than 48 inches (up to 54 inches if a side approach is possible)?

All parts of the phone need to be accessible.

7. Does the phone protrude no more than 4 inches into the circulation space?

Remember the "circulation space" is between 27" and 80" from the floor. If the phone protrudes more than four inches into this space, install a cane-detectable barrier.

8. Does the phone have push button controls?

Push button controls are for the benefit of persons with limited hand mobility.

9. Is the phone hearing aid compatible?

Compatibility is determined by a blue rubber grommet. This grommet is found at the junction of the receiver and the cord.

10. Is the phone adapted with a volume control?

The telephone company can replace phones so that they have push button controls and are hearing aid compatible.

11. Is the phone with volume control identified with appropriate signage?

As always, signage is very important.

12. Is one of the phones equipped with a telecommunications device for the Deaf (TTY)?

If there are four or more public phones in a building, at least one phone needs to be equipped with TTY. The phone company can provide you with a TTY telephone.

13. Is the location of the TTY identified by accessible signage bearing the International TTY symbol?

As always, signage is important. Assumption should not have to be made—clear signage eliminates the need for assumption and questions, and sends a clear message that a program has acted on accessibility needs.

Concluding Note:
This section is technical, and refers to specific measurements and standards. The standards are scientifically derived, and are designed to benefit the greatest number of people. Variation from these standards creates barriers.