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Introduction.

You already have a duty to make changes to your building and the way you provide your services to disabled people, but from October 2004 those duties became far more wide-ranging. You need to ensure that, not only do you meet your legal duties, but also that you do not ignore all those disabled people who are potential customers, visitors or company staff.

The duties have been introduced in three stages.

• Since 2nd December 1996, it has been unlawful for you to treat disabled people less favourably for a reason related to their disability.

• Since 1st October 1999, you have had to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people in the workplace.

• From 1st October 2004, you have to make other reasonable adjustments to the physical features of your premises to overcome barriers to access. The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) advise you to start planning now for these changes and  strongly suggest an "inclusive" approach.

But what is a physical feature?   The list is not exhaustive, but will include: Steps, pathways, stairways, kerbs, exterior surfaces, paving, building entrances and exits, emergency escape routes, internal and external doors, gates, toilets and washing facilities, telephones, counters, service desks, lighting, lifts, escalators, access controls, signage?

And what is reasonable?   There is no definitive answer. The law uses this phrase to give some flexibility to allow different solutions in different situations. The Code of Practice advises that "reasonable" may vary according to:   1. Type of service provided:   2. The nature of the company, size and resources.

But my building has been approved by the Building Regulation people?  Some newer buildings may already meet the building regulations, including part M (In England and Wales) and the dispersed part T (In Scotland) covering some of these aspects of access. You should not however assume that you have met your duties under the act because your premises conform to building regulations.

So, what should we do now?  The first thing is not to be daunted. Help is available and you are in a good position to equip yourself with information and then make your own decision. The most important thing is not to wait until a disabled person cannot use your building or services.

The DRC recommends having an audit carried out to highlight where the real barriers are.  Access audits are detailed inspections and will report on the building's deficiencies and must be undertaken by an experienced access auditor. Their expertise will highlight barriers for disabled persons and should offer practical solutions to any problem areas.

Can Genus help me with this?  Yes we can. Our Access Auditors are on hand to give practical advice and offer solutions to any disabled access problem.  For more information please contact us on   01582 840484 or click here to e mail us

Alternatively, visit the web site of The Disability Rights Commission at www.drc-gb.org  for additional information.

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