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DIAL Doncaster, Unit 9, Shaw Wood Business Park, Shaw Wood Way, Doncaster, DN2 5TB
Reception Areas
Last updated on 31/03/08
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Requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act

GENERAL SITUATION
It is in a Reception Area that visitors to a building often need to absorb a lot of information quite quickly in order to be able to access the information or service which they require.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

  1. Some consideration of the requirements for entrances is given on factsheet for 'DOORS'. In addition, it might be necessary to consider access arrangements in line with the needs for security (see factsheet for 'SECURITY').
  2. It helps visitors if they can see the interior of a building from outside so that they can obtain some clue as to where they need to proceed.
  3. Particular attention should be paid to lighting in relation to the light levels outside in order to help those who cannot cope with sudden changes in lighting levels.
  4. The route from the entrance to the first point of arrival should be as direct as possible.
  5. Matting at entrances should be of an adequate size (about 2 in depth and as wide as the doors) to clean the full circumference of a wheelchair wheel.
  6. Reception desks or counters should be at such a height as will be convenient to wheelchair users, although a high counter might be necessary to protect equipment or staff. The height to the underside of a counter should be a minimum of 700mm and the top surface should be no more than 760mm for wheelchair users. For a shared reception desk the upper height should be no higher than 860mm.
  7. The acoustic conditions around reception desks should be carefully considered and a loop system be available to help visitors with impaired hearing. Profoundly deaf, hard of hearing, and speech-impaired people can communicate using textphones (having an electronic keyboard and screen). This should be available in the Reception Area.
  8. A waiting area should be provided, both for visitors arriving prior to being met, and for visitors leaving who may need to arrange for transport, etc.
  9. Other services which could be provided for visitors include toilets and telephones and, perhaps, water or drink making facilities.
  10. Where security barriers are installed, the need for passage by wheelchair users and other disabled people should be borne in mind. This applies to the design of turnstiles and gates and to the means of access - by smart card (preferred) or push button, etc.
  11. Attention may need to be given to the employment or training of reception staff in sign language skills.

CHECKLIST

  1. Is at least part of the reception counter low enough for easy access? ( )
  2. Is there a loop system or textphone? ( )
  3. Is there an area where confidential matters can be discussed? ( )
  4. Is a telephone available and is it properly accessible? ( )
  5. Is the receptionist or some other member of staff able to use a sign language? ( )
  6. Is there a waiting area, toilets, drinks facilities? ( )
  7. Is it easy to determine where to go immediately on entering the building? ( )

DIAL Disclaimer
Whilst all the information given in this fact sheet was correct at the time of going to press,
DIAL Doncaster cannot be held responsible for any subsequent changes.