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Built Environment

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Goal/Our Commitment

In accordance with NS Bill 59, APSEA commits to uphold, maintain, and improve the current built environment within the office, residence and learning spaces at the APSEA Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

APSEA will ensure the built environment is accessible for the student and staff population that are Deaf/Hard of Hearing and Blind/Visually Impaired.

Policies

Links to current building codes/standards that steer our work.

Achievements

In the built environment we are always working towards greater accessibility. Examples include:

  • The APSEA Centre buildings were designed with BVI learners and staff in mind. As a result, our recommendations are more specific in nature, as the current infrastructure often exceeds current recommendations.
  • The maintenance team is responsive and committed to accessibility standards.
  • Stairs and railings are well marked and maintained.
  • External pathways between buildings are well-lit, flat, and well maintained.
  • The main conference room has been renovated and is spacious, maneuverable, fully integrated with technology and flexibility with the lighting.
  • Hallways and entryways are spacious and wide.
  • Doorways are standard or larger than standard width.
  • Heating, ventilation and air conditioning is current and tested to a high air quality standard.
  • Emergency Notification System is accessible and supports diverse needs.
  • Window covering/films in place to reduce glare and eye strain.
  • Current signage includes symbols, braille, and tactile features.

Barriers

Identified limitations in the built environment for accessibility in the organization:

  • Accessibility features are not present consistently in both buildings.
  • Most recent accessibility audit is outdated as renovations and upgrades have since occurred in both buildings and in exterior spaces.
  • Exterior signage is lacking and needs updating.
  • Temporary flooring solutions are in place at entrances, which could be a tripping and visibility hazard.
  • Reception area is not accessible and as building use evolves will need to be upgraded.
  • Public washroom facilities are not fully accessible.

Actions

Recommended actions to improve accessibility in the built environment at APSEA:

  • Hire dedicated resources to ensure accessibility is embedded across the organization. A Supervisor of Accessibility Services and their team would be responsible for identifying accessibility challenges, providing potential solutions and helping implement best practices in accessibility across the organization. This will allow people with disabilities to navigate APSEA more easily, positively impact the work environment and foster a culture of inclusivity.
  • Continue to use Rick Hansen Certification standards as a guide in built environment accessibility, which will help ensure our spaces are able to accommodate diverse physical needs (example: ensuring a variety of chair types are available).
  • Work with an accessibility consultant who is Rick Hansen certified to ensure APSEA buildings are reaching their full potential in terms of accessibility.
  • Ensure signage in APSEA buildings is accessible to all users of the facility. Following best practice, it is acknowledged that the most accessible signs contain braille and raised print and where appropriate raised pictograms. Aim for signage to be clear, with short concise text.

Indicators

  • Supervisor of Accessibility Services is in place, leading this function across the organization.
  • An accessibility audit is completed in year one and a timeframe for updating is determined
  • Update and improve exterior signage.
  • Flooring solutions meet safety and accessibility requirements.
  • Reception area meets accessibility requirements.
  • Public washroom facilities are fully accessible.

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Serving Children & Youth Who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing/Blind or Visually Impaired