Jean Germa B. Eyog
BSARCH 3A
Designing buildings with the needs of people with disabilities or impairments in mind is
crucial for creating inclusive and accessible spaces. There are various design
requirements, standards, and policies that help ensure such inclusion. These guidelines
aim to provide equitable access to facilities and services for all individuals, regardless of
their physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities. Here are some key considerations:
1. Universal Design Principles: Incorporate universal design principles that make
spaces usable by people of all abilities without the need for adaptation. This
involves creating environments that are intuitive, flexible, equitable, and safe for
everyone.
2. Accessibility Standards and Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with relevant
accessibility standards and guidelines, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) in the United States or similar regulations in your country. These standards
provide specific requirements for various aspects of building design, including
ramps, doorways, corridors, and restrooms.
3. Site Planning and Circulation:

Parking: Design accessible parking spaces close to the building entrance
with proper signage and an accessible route.

Pathways: Ensure clear and wide pathways with smooth surfaces that
accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and guide dogs.

Entrances: Provide step-free entrances with ramps or lifts, and ensure
doors are wide enough to accommodate mobility aids.
4. Spatial Arrangement:

Furniture Layout: Arrange furniture and fixtures to allow for easy
navigation and maneuverability. Avoid clutter and obstructions in pathways.

Reach Ranges: Design storage and equipment so that items are reachable
for people using wheelchairs or with limited mobility.
5. Vertical Circulation:

Elevators: Install elevators with ample space to accommodate wheelchairs
and mobility aids. Ensure tactile and auditory indicators for floors.

Stairs: Include handrails, contrasting nosings, and proper lighting on stairs.
Designate staircases as secondary routes, with accessible alternatives
available.
6. Restrooms:

Accessible Toilets: Design restrooms with accessible toilet stalls equipped
with grab bars and enough space for wheelchair maneuvering.

Sinks: Install sinks at an appropriate height to allow wheelchair users to
access them comfortably.

Visual and Tactile Cues: Use visual and tactile cues like contrasting colors
and textures to aid people with visual impairments.
7. Wayfinding and Signage:

Clear Signage: Use clear and easy-to-read signage with large fonts, high
contrast, and Braille for people with visual impairments.

Tactile Maps: Provide tactile maps to aid individuals with visual
impairments in understanding the layout of the building.
8. Lighting and Acoustics:

Lighting: Ensure even and glare-free lighting throughout the building to
assist people with visual impairments and reduce potential hazards.

Acoustics: Control noise levels and use sound-absorbing materials to
improve auditory clarity.
9. Emergency Evacuation:

Accessible Exits: Design emergency exits that are accessible to people
with disabilities and impairments.

Alert Systems: Include visual and auditory emergency alert systems to
accommodate individuals with hearing or visual impairments.
10. Consultation with Disabled Communities: Involve people with disabilities or
impairments in the design process to gather insights and feedback on potential
challenges and solutions.
11. Continuous Education and Training: Ensure that architects, designers, builders,
and facility managers are educated about accessibility and inclusivity to maintain
an inclusive mindset.
12. ISO 21542:2011 (International):ISO 21542 is an international standard that
outlines design requirements for accessibility and usability of the built environment,
helping to establish a global benchmark for inclusive design.
In the Philippines, the building code that includes provisions for accessibility and the
needs of people with disabilities or impairments is the "National Building Code of the
Philippines" (NBCP). The relevant section that addresses accessibility is the "National
Structural Code of the Philippines," specifically Chapter 10 - "Accessibility for Persons
with Disabilities." This chapter provides guidelines and requirements for making buildings
accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities.
There are several policies and laws that ensure the inclusion of the needs of people with
disabilities or impairments in the conceptualization of building design. These policies aim
to promote accessibility, equal rights, and inclusivity in various aspects of the built
environment. Here are some key policies:
1. Republic Act No. 7277 (Magna Carta for Disabled Persons):

This law mandates the government to ensure the full participation and
integration of people with disabilities in mainstream society. It covers
various aspects of their rights, including accessibility to public buildings and
facilities.
2. Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law):

This law focuses on the accessibility needs of people with disabilities. It
requires all government buildings and facilities, as well as commercial and
public establishments, to provide appropriate access and facilities for
individuals with disabilities.
3. Universal Design Act of 2018 (Republic Act No. 11215):

This act promotes the principles of universal design, aiming to create
environments that are accessible, usable, and convenient for everyone,
including people with disabilities.
4. Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Guidelines:

The DPWH issues guidelines for the design and construction of public
infrastructure, including buildings and roads. These guidelines incorporate
accessibility provisions to ensure that the needs of people with disabilities
are considered in the planning and execution of projects.
5. National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA):

The NCDA is the government agency responsible for the implementation of
policies and programs for people with disabilities. They provide guidance
and advocacy for the inclusion of accessibility features in various aspects
of public and private infrastructure.
6. Philippine Accessibility Disability Services (PADS) Inc.:

PADS is an organization that advocates for accessible and inclusive
environments. They work with various stakeholders to promote the rights of
people with disabilities and provide education on accessibility standards.
7. Local Government Ordinances:

Some local governments in the Philippines may have their own ordinances
that require buildings and facilities to be accessible to people with
disabilities. These ordinances may go beyond national laws to address
specific local needs.
8. Building Permits and Regulatory Compliance:

To obtain building permits, developers and builders often need to comply
with accessibility requirements outlined in national and local policies.
9. Inclusive Tourism Initiatives:

In the context of tourism, there are efforts to make tourist destinations,
hotels, and transportation options accessible to all, including people with
disabilities.
10. Involvement of Disabled Persons Organizations (DPOs):

DPOs play an active role in advocating for accessibility and inclusivity. Their
insights and feedback contribute to the development and implementation of
policies.