CAN-ASC-2.1 Outdoor spaces: Public Review Draft – 7. Facilities and furniture

7.1 General

7.1.1 Inclusions

“Facilities and furniture” includes but is not limited to:

tables;
benches;
light standards;
planters;
ticketing dispensers;
payment machines;
tree grates;
signposts;
transformers;
mailboxes;
newspaper stands;
trash containers;
planters;
bus shelters;
benches;
A-frame or sandwich board signs;
bike racks;
publication structures;
information/wayfinding pillars;
poster kiosks; and
drinking fountains and water bottle filling stations.

Facilities and furniture should be designed to enhance the accessible journey, whether they are reserved for use only by people with disabilities (e.g., accessible parking spaces) or are designated accessible facilities that can also be used by those without disabilities (e.g., accessible toilet stall).

All facilities and furniture shall comply with the provisions in Clause 6 in addition to those specified in this Clause.

7.1.2 Clear width

Facilities and furniture shall not overlap or reduce the clear width of the outdoor path of travel.

7.1.3 Adjacent access

Facilities and furniture shall be adjacent to the outdoor path of travel and connected to the path of travel by an accessible surface.

7.1.4 Number of facilities/furniture items

Where only one of each type of facility or furniture is provided, it shall comply with this Standard.

Where more than one of each type of facility or furniture is provided in the same area/facility or for the same purpose (e.g., multiple benches or parking spaces, staff and visitor parking spaces or entrances), the number required to comply with this Standard for each type shall be as shown in Tables 3 and 4.

Table 3

Facilities and furniture not reserved for people with disabilities

(See Clause 7.1.4.)

Total number of each type of facilities or furniture	Minimum number of accessible for each type of facilities or furniture
2–10 per type of facilities or furniture	2 accessible
11–30 per type of facilities or furniture	3 accessible
31 or more per type of facilities or furniture	10% of total number

Table 4

Facilities and furniture reserved for people with disabilities

(See Clause 7.1.4.)

Total number of each type of facilities or furniture	Minimum number of accessible for each type of facilities or furniture
2–30 per type of facilities or furniture	2 accessible
31–59 per type of facilities or furniture	3 accessible
60 or more per type of facilities or furniture	5% of total number

Note: For example, if there are 10 drinking fountains/bottle filling stations, then there would be two that are accessible. If there is a 300-seat outdoor amphitheatre, then 30 seats would be accessible or 15 seats would be reserved for people with disabilities.

7.2 Parking and vehicle amenities

7.2.1 Parking spaces

7.2.1.1 Automobile parking spaces

The number of designated accessible parking spaces shall be determined as shown in Clause 7.1.4.

A designated accessible parking space that is reserved for people with disabilities or, where provided as a courtesy, a parking space for users with limited mobility shall:

be at least 2600 mm wide and 7500 mm long;
have an adjacent side access aisle that complies with Clause 7.2.2 and is at least 2000 mm wide; and
have an adjacent rear access aisle that complies with Clause 7.2.2 and is at least 2000 mm long.

7.2.1.2 Van parking spaces

A designated van accessible parking space that is reserved for people with disabilities or, where provided as a courtesy, a parking space for users with limited mobility shall:

be at least 3400 mm wide and 7500 mm long;
be provided for every six accessible automobile parking spaces;
have an adjacent side access aisle that complies with Clause 7.2.2 and is at least 2000 mm wide; and
have an adjacent rear access aisle that complies with Clause 7.2.2 and is at least 2000 mm long.

7.2.1.3 Camper or recreational vehicle parking spaces

A designated accessible parking space for campers and recreational vehicles that is reserved for people with disabilities or, where provided as a courtesy, a parking space for users with limited mobility shall:

be at least 6000 mm wide and 6000 mm long;
have an adjacent side access aisle that complies with Clause 7.2.2 and is at least 2000 mm wide and as long as the parking space; and
have an adjacent rear access aisle that complies with Clause 7.2.2 and is at least 2000 mm wide and 6000 mm long.

7.2.2 Parking space identification

A designated accessible parking space (whether for automobile, van, or camper/RV) that is reserved for people with disabilities or, where provided as a courtesy, a parking space for users with limited mobility shall be identified by:

a vertically mounted sign that is at least 300 mm wide by 450 mm high, is mounted such that the centre of the sign is between 1500 mm and 2000 mm from the ground, and incorporates the International Symbol of Access (see Annex C); and
if the parking space is paved, a painted sign on the pavement that is in the centre of the parking space, luminance (colour) contrasted with the background pavement by at least 70% to comply with Clause 6.8.3, at least 1000 mm long, and incorporates the International Symbol of Access (see Annex C).

7.2.3 Parking space location

7.2.3.1 Parking space distribution and distance

A designated accessible parking space that is reserved for people with disabilities or, where provided as a courtesy, a parking space for users with limited mobility shall be distributed to best ensure accessibility and user convenience. The parking space shall be located within 30 m of the main accessible entrance (whether for a building, park, or trailhead). The parking space shall provide a clear and unobstructed view of the facility entrance and be connected to the entrance by an accessible route.

7.2.3.2 Adjacent curb ramp for on-street parking

A designated accessible parking space that is reserved for people with disabilities or, where provided as a courtesy, a parking space for users with limited mobility that is located on a vehicular route shall be located within 6 m of a curb ramp that provides access to the adjacent pedestrian route.

7.2.3.3 Surrounding vegetation

Parking spaces shall provide a minimum 1000 mm of clear area from surrounding forest and/or vegetation. The clear area should be maintained so that it continues to be clear of any encroaching vegetation or plantings.

7.2.4 Access aisles and passenger loading and unloading/drop-off zones

7.2.4.1 Identification

Access aisles and passenger loading and unloading/drop-off zones shall have diagonal markings that resist fading or removal and are luminance (colour) contrasted with the surrounding surface by at least 70% (see Clause 6.8.3).

7.2.4.2 Facility connections

Passenger loading and unloading/drop-off zones and parking spaces shall have an access aisle that is adjacent and parallel to the vehicle pull-up or parking space and complies with the provisions in Clause 6. The accessible route shall connect with nearby facilities and furniture.

Note: Accessible facility connections are key to creating an accessible journey.

7.2.4.3 Adjacent curb ramp for on-street facilities

Access aisles and passenger loading and unloading/drop-off zones that are located on a vehicular route shall be located within 6 m of a curb ramp that provides access to the adjacent pedestrian route.

7.2.4.4 Passenger waiting areas

Passenger loading and unloading/drop-off zones should provide seating areas that:

comply with the provisions in Clause 6;
are located adjacent to the accessible entrance; and
provide an unobstructed view of the passenger loading and unloading/drop-off area.

Note: Providing a covered seating area can enhance accessibility for facilities used during inclement or sunny weather.

7.2.5 Power charging stations for electric vehicles

7.2.5.1 General

Power charging stations shall comply with the provisions in Clause 6. Parking spaces provided to access the charging station shall comply with all provisions in Clause 7.2.

7.2.5.2 Exposure to elements

Power charging stations should be located under cover to protect the user and the charger from extreme weather conditions.

7.3 Outdoor play facilities

7.3.1 General

Outdoor play facilities are any designed and/or constructed structures or spaces that children are expected to use for play. These may include but are not limited to:

natural areas (e.g., areas that contain logs, rocks, sand, or water);
constructed play areas;
areas for water or sand play;
climbing facilities;
sports fields and courts;
spray pads/spray parks/splash pads; and
swings.

Accessible play facilities should provide all children with access to play opportunities. They should also provide opportunities for parents/guardians/caregivers with disabilities to play with their children.

Play experiences for children who have disabilities shall be integrated and similar to those provided for all children. Consideration shall be given to providing sensory and active play experiences.

Note: An example of a play experience could be a hill without a structure.

7.3.2 Design

Outdoor play facilities shall comply with all provisions in Clause 6 in addition to the requirements specified in Clause 7.3 with the following exceptions:

Elevated surfaces may be reduced in width to 1000 mm provided that a turning space 1500 mm in diameter is provided in cases where the restricted accessible route is greater than 1000 mm in length.
In playgrounds less than 100 m2 in size, the clear width of ground level accessible routes may be reduced to a minimum of 1000 mm provided at least one turning space 1500 mm in diameter is provided in cases where the restricted accessible route is greater than 1000 mm in length.

7.3.3 Ground level play components

7.3.3.1 Number of ground level play components

Where ground level play components are provided, at least one of each type of component shall be located on an accessible route.

Ground level play components that would be required by the provisions set out in Clause 7.1.4 shall not be required provided at least:

50% of the elevated play components are connected by an accessible route; and
three of the elevated play components connected by an accessible route are components with notably different play experiences (i.e., including sensory, physical, imaginative, social, and creative play).

7.3.3.2 Use of ground level play components

Ground level play components shall provide appropriate activities and challenges for users who are either standing or in a seated position on the ground.

7.3.3.3 Play tables

Where play tables are provided, knee clearance shall be provided and comply with Clause 6.3.2. The height of rims, curbs, or other obstructions shall also comply with Clause 6.3.2.

Play tables designed or constructed primarily for children ages five and under need not provide knee clearance if:

the clear ground space is arranged for a parallel approach; and
the height of the rim surface is not greater than 785 mm.

7.3.4 Elevated play components

7.3.4.1 Number and use of elevated play components

Where provided, elevated play components shall:

have at least 50% of play features and elements located on a surface meeting accessibility requirements and on an accessible route; and
provide appropriate activities and challenges for users who are either standing or in a seated position.

7.3.5 Water play areas

7.3.5.1 Luminance (colour) contrast

Wet surfaces shall be luminance (colour) contrasted from surrounding areas by at least 70% (see Clause 6.8.3). Areas where there are slope transitions shall be luminance (colour) contrasted. Upright features shall be luminance (colour) contrasted from the ground surface.

7.3.5.2 Sightlines, shade, and seating

Any seating around water play areas shall have clear sightlines to the water play area. Opportunities for both shade and seating should be provided.

7.3.5.3 Washrooms and changerooms

Where washrooms or changerooms are provided, they shall comply with all provisions in Clauses 6 and 7.1.4.

7.4 Furniture and amenities

7.4.1 General

All furniture and amenities shall comply with Clause 6 in addition to requirements specific to bicycle amenities, telescopes and periscopes, and eating areas provided in Clauses 7.4.2 to 7.4.5.

7.4.2 Bicycle racks, storage, and lock-ups

Where bicycle racks, storage, and lock-ups are provided, at least one shall be a minimum 1800 mm high by 1000 mm wide by 1500 mm deep.

The number of accessible bicycle racks, storage facilities, and lock-ups shall comply with Clause 7.1.4.

A clear ground space in front of bicycle racks, storage facilities, and lock-ups shall adhere to the provisions in Clause 6.1.

7.4.3 Telescopes and periscopes

Where provided, at least one telescope and/or periscope shall be suitable for use from a seated and standing position.

The eyepiece for the telescope or periscope that is usable from a seated position shall be at a height of 1090 mm to 1295 mm above the surface.

The clear floor space and accessible path to the telescope or periscope shall allow a forward approach to comply with Clause 6.3.1. The clear floor space shall be positioned so that the eyepiece of the telescope or periscope is centred on the space.

7.4.4 Tables

Where provided, tables shall provide knee and toe clearance that complies with the provisions in Clause 6 on at least one side of the table.

Note: Tables that are not eating tables include but are not limited to craft tables, fish-cleaning tables, and registration tables.

7.4.5 Eating facilities

7.4.5.1 Accompanying facilities

Where additional facilities (e.g., parking, toilets, potable water sources) are provided, eating facilities should be located within 200 m of those facilities.

7.4.5.2 Eating facility distribution

Accessible picnic tables should be located throughout the picnic area. If shaded areas or shelters are provided, the number of accessible picnic tables in these areas shall comply with Clause 7.1.4.

7.4.5.3 Outdoor fire pits or cooking facilities/hot stoves

Where outdoor fire pits or cooking facilities/hot stoves are provided in outdoor public use areas, they shall be located on a surface with high tonal and textural contrast with the adjacent surfaces. The clear space around all usable sides of the fire pit or cooking facility shall comply with Clause 6.1.2.

Note: Aspects of fire-building surfaces such as height and wall thickness are not addressed in this Standard as these can vary by design.

7.5 Service animal facilities

7.5.1 Service animal relief area

If provided, service animal relief areas shall be at least 3000 mm by 3000 mm and located on an accessible path of travel within 30 m of entrances and exits. The relief area should consist of a grass surface. Waste receptacles should be provided on an accessible path adjacent to the relief area.

Signage in compliance with Clause 5.2 should clearly designate the use of the area by service animals. The service animal relief area should be located away from busy pedestrian areas such as access routes and patios.

7.5.2 Tethering hooks

Tethering hooks for service animals should be provided and located on pool decks or perimeter areas that are at the same surface level as the owner. Clear sightlines between the service animal and owner shall be provided. The clear space or stall for each hook shall be a minimum 1600 mm wide and 1300 mm deep. Tethering hooks should be located near a drain or on a permeable surface.

7.6 Assembly areas and amphitheatres

7.6.1 Seating spaces for people using wheeled mobility devices

Seating spaces for people using wheeled mobility devices shall be located on an accessible route. The number of wheeled mobility device seating spaces shall comply with the provisions in Clause 7.1.4.

Two seating spaces accessible for persons using a wheeled mobility device should be provided side by side in any one location with adjacent seating provided for ambulatory companions.

Wheeled mobility device seating spaces should be dispersed throughout the seating area to provide sightlines that are comparable in all viewing areas. Fixed seating adjacent to the wheeled mobility seating spaces shall have a movable armrest to facilitate the ability of someone to transfer from their own mobility device into the fixed seating. Wheeled mobility device seating may be provided by temporarily removing seats.

Note: Aisles that have a minimum width of 600 mm measuring from the front of the bench to the back of the bench of the aisle in front are helpful to people of all abilities.

7.6.2 Stages

Stages should provide an accessible surface (see Clause 6.10) and be located on an accessible route.

Note: This requirement is intended to ensure that the stage surface itself is accessible (i.e., to clarify that accessibility requirements for assembly areas and amphitheatres do not apply just to patrons watching the performance).

7.6.3 Lighting for assembly areas and amphitheatres

Assembly areas and amphitheatres shall provide sufficient lighting to enable patrons to move throughout the space as needed, including for emergency egress. Lighting shall also be sufficient to enable a clear view of sign language interpreters.

7.6.4 Amplification of sound in assembly areas and amphitheatres

Audio systems in assembly areas and amphitheatres shall be compatible with personal amplification systems.

Note: Personal amplification systems currently use infrared or other similar technology. However, with technology in this field rapidly changing, specifying a certain technology might mean it could be outdated by the time this Standard is published. The wording in this Clause ensures the system only has to be compatible, regardless of format.

7.7 Marina environments, docks, and piers

7.7.1 Docks

Note: Clauses 7.7.1.1 and 7.7.1.2 apply to both fixed and mobile docks.

7.7.1.1 Extended support railing

A railing that extends 450 mm beyond the edge of the dock and over the watercraft should be provided for added stabilization when entering and exiting a watercraft.

7.7.1.2 Identification of dock edge

The edge of the dock should be emphasized with a luminance (colour) contrasting strip that is at least 50 mm wide in compliance with Clause 6.8.3. The strip should extend across the entire length of the dock edge except where a guard or handrail is provided as a barrier.

7.7.2 Sea walls and piers

7.7.2.1 Accessible space

Accessible spaces (e.g., viewing spaces, fishing spaces) shall be a minimum 1200 mm by 1200 mm for each person intended to be in the space.

7.7.2.2 Top rail position

The top railing of guardrails should be slanted toward the person to provide an armrest.

The height of the safety guardrail shall comply with all provisions in Clause 6, with the exception that a portion of the safety rail may be lowered to 800 mm if needed to facilitate fishing and other activities by users who are seated.

7.7.2.3 Shade, shelter, and seating

Shade, shelter, and seating should be provided. Where possible, at least one seat for each two accessible spaces should be provided.

7.7.3 Boat launches

Boat launches shall be located on an accessible route. The portion of the accessible route located within the launch ramp shall comply with all provisions in Clause 6 except for the slope requirements in Clause 6.10.11.

7.8 Outdoor showers

7.8.1 Seating

An outdoor shower mounted on a wall or pole shall have a seat that is 450 mm wide and 400 mm deep. The seat may be fixed or hinged to fold down from the wall or pole. The seat should be able to carry a load of 1300 N.

7.8.2 Grab bars for outdoor showers and rinsing showers

Outdoor showers and rinsing showers mounted on a wall or pole shall provide a grab bar.

For outdoor showers and rinsing showers where the shower head is mounted on a post, a vertical or circular grab bar shall be provided:

For vertical grab bars, the bar shall be installed directly under the shower head. It shall extend from no more than 840 mm above the floor or ground to within 75 mm of the shower head.
A circular grab bar, which may be used in place of a vertical grab bar, shall surround the usable part of the post and be installed under the shower head between 840 and 915 mm above the ground or floor.

For outdoor showers and rinsing showers where the shower head is mounted on a wall, a horizontal grab bar shall be provided. The bar shall be installed under the shower head between 840 mm and 915 mm above the ground or floor and extend at least 455 mm in both directions from the centre line of the shower head.

7.8.3 Fixed shower heads

Outdoor showers shall have two fixed shower head spray positions:

one that is mounted at a height between 1200 mm and 1350 mm for a low-rinsing shower; and
one that is mounted at a height between 1850 mm and 2030 mm for a standing shower.

An adjustable shower head may be used as an alternative to having two shower heads. If an adjustable shower head (i.e., shower wand) is used, then it shall meet the same requirements for reach ranges as fixed shower heads.

Whether a fixed shower head or an adjustable shower head is used, both types shall meet all requirements for operating controls (see Clause 6.5).

7.8.4 Handheld shower heads

Outdoor showers that provide a handheld shower spray unit shall have a hose length of 1800 mm.

7.8.5 Water temperature

The temperature of the water delivered through outdoor showers shall not exceed 49 °C.

7.8.6 Clear space around shower

The clear floor space shall be centred on the showerhead and located so that the showerhead is at the rear of the space.

7.9 Outdoor toilets

7.9.1 Toilet paper dispensers

If provided, a toilet paper dispenser and/or hand sanitizer dispenser shall comply with Clause 6.

7.9.2 Grab bars

Grab bars shall be provided for outdoor toilets if the structural support (e.g., walls) is available to enable compliance. The grab bars shall:

be able to resist a force of 1.3 kN in any direction;
be slip-resistant;
have a diameter between 30 mm and 40 mm; and
where mounted adjacent to a wall, have a space of between 35 mm and 45 mm between the grab bar and the wall.

Two grab bars, one horizontal and one vertical and each at least 760 mm in length, should be provided on the side of each accessible outdoor toilet. The horizontal bar shall be 760 mm to 850 mm above the floor. The vertical bar shall be located immediately above the horizontal bar and 150 mm in front of the toilet (see Figures 9a and 9b).

A horizontal grab bar should be provided on the rear wall, centred above the toilet. This rear wall grab bar should be not less than 600 mm long and mounted 760 mm to 850 mm above the floor, except where the toilet has an attached water tank, in which case the grab bar shall be mounted 100 mm above the top of the tank.

Figure 9a

Grab bars

(See Clause 7.9.2.)

This figure shows an illustration of a toilet seen from the front, the grab bar behind it, and the grab bar to the side of it. The rear grab bar does not obstruct the flush handle of the toilet. The dimensions of the horizontal rear grab bar are labelled as follows: height of 760 mm to 850 mm, a minimum length of 600 mm, and a diameter of 30 mm to 40 mm. All grab bars are shown to be 35 mm to 45 mm from the wall.

Figure 9b

Positioning of vertical grab bars for accessible toilets

(See Clause 7.9.2.)

This figure shows a toilet stall as seen from a three-quarters view and slightly above, with the toilet and rear and side grab bars in full view. The distance between the front edge of the toilet and the side grab bar is 150 mm.

Notes:

Figures 9a and 9b apply to outdoor toilets only where walls exist.
In cases where there are no side walls or side walls that could safely accommodate grab bars that comply with Clause 7.9.2, two flip-down wall-mounted grab bars could be considered for installation on both sides of the toilet secured to the wall behind the toilet.
An L-shaped grab bar would be a suitable substitute for horizontal and vertical bars. Any other added elements should not interfere with the functionality of the grab bar.

7.10 Facilities for activities in water

7.10.1 General

All facilities that provide activities carried out in water sources (e.g., pools, hot tubs, spas, hot springs, lakes, ponds) shall comply with this Clause.

7.10.2 Identification of water edge

Pool and hot tub/spa edges shall be:

a high-contrast colour (luminance) to comply with Clause 6.8.3; and
a texture that differs from the surrounding surfaces.

7.10.3 Entry into water facilities

Entry into a pool, hot tub/spa, or hot spring shall be by ramp, transfer platform, or both. A lift may also be provided.

7.10.4 Ramp entrances to water facilities

7.10.4.1 Identification of ramp entrance

The entrance to ramps providing access to pools and hot tub/spas shall be:

a high-contrast colour (luminance) to comply with Clause 6.8.3; and
a texture that differs from the surrounding surfaces.

7.10.4.2 Pool ramps

Pool ramps shall:

have surfaces that are slip-resistant;
have a slope not exceeding 1:12; and
be at least 920 mm wide.

Water depth at and near the foot of a pool ramp shall not exceed 750 mm.

7.10.4.3 Water wheelchair

A water wheelchair shall be provided for all pools and hot tubs/spas that have a ramp entrance.

7.10.5 Lifts into water facilities

Mechanical lifts and swings are the least desirable form of pool entry. Removable lifts are preferable (to minimize damage to the lift when not in use).

Where lifts are provided, they should

be located where the water level is shallower than 1220 mm;
be next to a 900 mm wide by 2200 mm deep clear deck space that
1. is parallel for transfer onto the pool lift seat; and
2. is 305 mm measured from a line located behind the rear edge of the seat; and
have a 1:50 (2%) maximum running slope at deck surface from the centre line of the pool lift seat to the pool edge.

7.11 Campgrounds

7.11.1 General

All amenities within accessible campsites/campgrounds including but not limited to clear ground space around tent pads/platforms, operating controls, and eating areas shall comply with Clause 6. Signage provided at campgrounds shall comply with Clauses 5.2 and 9.

7.11.2 Parking for campsites

Accessible drive-in campsites shall include an accessible parking space on the site. Campsites that can only be reached by hiking or paddling shall provide an accessible parking space at the access point or trailhead.

7.11.3 Connections

Accessible campsites shall be connected to accessible washrooms, hook-ups, program areas, and other facilities by an accessible route.

7.12 Temporary facilities

Where temporary facilities are provided, the temporary facilities shall comply with the relevant Clauses of this Standard.

Note: Examples of temporary facilities include portable toilets, temporary seating, amusement rides that are not permanent, tents, and temporary eating facilities.

7.13 Passenger lift systems

7.13.1 General

Passenger lift systems include gondolas, trams, chair lifts, rope tows, lift harnesses, and other devices that transport passengers uphill, either at ground level or elevated above the ground.

7.13.2 Transport of mobility devices

Passenger lift systems should be designed so that mobility devices used by the passenger can be transported with the owner.

7.13.3 Accommodation of mobility devices

Passenger lift systems should be designed so that the passenger is not required to transfer out of their mobility device in order to utilize the lift.

7.13.4 Speed of loading

Passenger lift systems may provide options to enable a slower speed during loading or allow the passenger compartment to be stationary during loading to increase accessibility.

Note: See Clause 6.6 for provisions related to the configuration of the lift seat and height of the seat from the snow.

7.14 Power charging stations for mobility devices

7.14.1 General

Where provided, power charging stations for powered mobility devices shall comply with Clause 6.

7.14.2 Exposure to elements

The power charging station should be located under cover to protect the user and the charger from extreme weather conditions.

7.15 Pedestrian beacons and signals

7.15.1 General

Where provided, pedestrian beacons and signals shall comply with Clause 6.

7.15.2 Location

The beacon/signal shall be located on an accessible path of travel. It shall not be located on a curb ramp. Access to the signal shall not be affected by weather, street furniture, or by snow clearing/snow storage.

7.15.3 Auditory signal

The beacon/signal shall emit an audible signal to identify the safe crossing time and direction. The audible signal shall respond to ambient sound levels, being quieter in times with less traffic.