Search results

"Select fixtures that do not flicker, or have LED, which can cause discomfort to some users." (I have limited knowledge in this area, but do have living experience with sensitivity to many fixtures.)

Add hyperlink to "Table 1" and "Table 2", rather than just "1" and "2".

These are minimum contrast values. Higher values are often used to improve the lighting conditions such as when the lighting conditions may at times be low.

provide supportive measures in combinations, (e.g., audible and tactile; audible and visual);

have a luminance-contrast of at least 50% with the surrounding surface;

At least 30% of these technical experts are people with disabilities and lived experience and 30% are from equity seeking groups including 2SLGBTQI+, indigenous peoples, women and visible minorities.

Note 1: In indoor settings with highly smooth surfaces, a height of at least 5 mm is recommended.

A 17 mm top width is considered the most effective dimension for individuals to detect and differentiate through the soles of their shoes.

Except when the location is protected by a guard complying with Clause 6.16.4 of CAN-ASC-2.1 (draft), an attention indicator shall be at the following locations:

have all audible and visual signs, including those provided for indoor or outdoor mapping, tested by people who will use them to confirm usability and clarity; and

persons with disabilities

Examples of identification signs include signage for buildings, washrooms, egress, stairwells, doorways, or offices.

Examples specific to outdoor environments include trailhead orientation panels, park entrance directories

Note 1: Examples of prohibition signs include no entry signs, no stopping signs, no smoking signs, no open fires, no off-leash pets, no swimming. Note 2: Examples of mandatory signs include dismount bikes signs, keep right signs, keep clear signs, stay on marked trail.

Regulatory signs that denote forbidden actions (Prohibition Signs), or a mandatory actions (Mandatory Signs).

Note 2: Examples include specific to outdoor environments wildlife warnings (e.g., bear in area), steep slope or falling rock alerts, trail closure due to flooding or storm damage.

(Add references to applicable sections of this document.)

identification signs;

(see below)

"at least 1000 mm high" or "at least 1000 mm wide"

for digital or electronic signage, ensure compliance with Clause 12.11,

Trailhead signs in outdoor spaces shall be provided at the start of trails and wherever trail conditions change significantly. They shall include:

include alternative communication methods, (e.g., an audible technology, braille booklet or similar alternate format where there is an established need).

Valid options that may be used include motion sensors or QR codes that trigger an audio recording of the information, and other technologies that automatically read aloud text.

for signs meant to be read looking down (i.e., mounted on a standalone pole either parallel or angled to the ground), be located between with the bottom edge 730 mm to 860 mm above the ground to allow viewing from a seated position;

be mounted on the exterior wall beside latch edge of the entrance door, where feasible.

add mounting height

Start with the most prevalent, pertinent information first, such as d-e-c-a-... then place b (outdoor toilet facilities) later.

Specify either centreline or bottom edge, check numbers (see below).

d. be located 1500 mm +/- 50 mm from the floor when they are visual and do not contain tactile or braille elements; e. be installed at a height of 1150 mm to 1250 mm above the floor for those containing tactile and braille elements

2050 mm

c. be mounted at consistent locations throughout the building and be viewable from a comfortable viewing distance (with font size in accordance with 12.4 n) v) ; and

Suggest providing details on placement. For example, BLC guidelines indicate “Placement on handrails: Only place braille on handrails if the floor surface is flat to allow for safe standing while reading. This means handrails on stairs should have extensions where braille and tactile print can be placed. It is recommended that the handrail extensions should be at least 300mm in length on both ends of the staircase.”

Specify where to place signs.

Move to 12.7.2 or 12.7.3 (see below)

ranging from 135 % to a maximum of 170 % of

Poor material can lead to dots wearing off, changing the characters and affecting the meaning of the braille message.

1. the field to have a minimum height of 150 mm and be raised 0.8 mm – 1.5 mm from the surrounding surface; and 2. the symbol positioned on the field at 0.8 mm – 1.5 mm from the surface of the field;

if the doors are opening or closing

Add ideal times (see below)

Maps shall:

The measurement of slip resistance for Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs) has been evolving

Ensure items are in alphabetical order.

Ensure items are in alphabetical order.

Federal and federally-regulated (obligated?) facilities

Safety, Empowerment and independence: Wayfinding and signage in its various forms allow for safe, autonomous and independent navigation, providing timely, accurate, and clear information in multiple formats when necessary.

Add safe: This Standard focuses on the implementation of multiple solutions (e.g., sight, sound, tactile, and technology) to provide individuals with a variety of options to meet their needs and facilitate safe and independent navigation.

Add definition for "will be" or change to "should", as a recommendation

18 point or larger

https://pinelandsalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Gallaudet-University-DeafSpace-Design-Guidelines.pdf

Give greater clarity on what that means

Provide a measurement for "different levels" i.e. City of Ottawa half height curb for separation between pedestrian and cycle track is 50-75 mm

See why

Provide clarity on the use and accessibility of pavers

Ensure TWSIs (particularly not cast materials) are replaced when worn. And maintained for detectability during winter months

Temporary TWSIs can provide helpful navigation during construction

When possible, signs should only contain a single language, as best practice

Seems high. What about supplementing with pictograms as well?

Maps should include a QR code that provides information in alt formats

• Lighting and glare requirements present practical challenges for real-world design and verification. • Standards are currently voluntary; there are no compliance checks at this stage. • • In the interim, specify these standards in procurement/contract documents for new builds and renovations. • Consider requesting third‑party verification as part of project delivery.

• Standards are currently voluntary; there are no compliance checks at this stage. • If adopted positively by ASC and its Board, requirements could be recommended for regulation and formal enforcement. • In the interim, specify these standards in procurement/contract documents for new builds and renovations.

• Recommendation: allow/encourage adjustable lighting (tunable CCT and dimming) and specify quality metrics beyond CCT (e.g., CRI, spectral considerations). • Risk noted: tendency to increase brightness in darker contexts; emphasis should remain on quality of light rather than brightness alone. • Request a non‑digital option for wayfinding/signage to support users who cannot tolerate screens or motion content. • Question on outreach: ensure municipalities and other stakeholders are formally notified (communication plan, kits for directors, social media, newsletters). • Concern about lighting health impacts; confirm presence of lighting expertise within the Technical Committee (TC roster available online). • Outreach examples noted: articles targeting people with disabilities; goal is adoption across all levels of government. • Call to action: leverage networks to invite additional commenters; prior EE standard received 1,000+ comments demonstrating strong engagement. • Process reminder: how to submit comments (deadline mentioned: March 30).

• Position luminaires to minimize direct glare (keep sources out of eye line) and to illuminate floors and travel zones. • Daylight can cause sudden shifts (e.g., low sun angles at building west façades in fall); coordinate electric lighting to smooth transitions.

• Wayfinding: consider mandatory use of salient landmarks at major decision points (visual, tactile, and auditory) to support spatial memory. • Acknowledgement that the current draft may not include that level of detail. • Maps: include guidance for electronic/digital maps and portable (hand‑held) maps used during navigation.

• Visual needs vary widely; distinguish clearly between minimum requirements and desirable best practices. • Practicality/feasibility will vary (costs and implementation constraints). • Elevator example: tactile indicators vs. visual/auditory cues—timing and light signals matter, especially for Deaf users needing visual cues. • Consider leveraging current technologies (e.g., smart/seasonally adjustable lighting) to achieve intent.

To use external marking paint that meets certain standards for how long it remains in outdoor environments so it doesn't wear off prematurely from wet weather and normal traffic (foot/car/bike).

We recommend maintaining alignment with the Accessible Canada Act definition of disability, while supplementing it with strengths-based, inclusive language that reflects evolving best practices. Suggested addition: “While disability is defined in accordance with the Accessible Canada Act, Accessibility Standards Canada recognizes that children and individuals may also identify using strengths-based language, including neurodiversity and other affirming terms. This includes children with visible and invisible disabilities, whose needs may not be immediately apparent but are equally important to recognize and support. Accessibility efforts should respect and reflect diverse ways of understanding and describing human differences.”

You could add language such as: “This standard is intended to be applied across a range of childcare settings, and implementation should consider differences in scale, location, and available resources while maintaining the intent of accessibility.”

Add a short statement recognizing the role of group size and staffing. For example: “Accessible design in childcare centres should also consider group size and staffing ratios, as these directly impact a child’s ability to regulate, participate, and receive appropriate support, particularly for children with invisible disabilities such as sensory sensitivities, communication differences, or attention-related needs.” One policy idea would be to assign weighted ratios based on the needs of children within the group and their support needs.

Define who the authorities are and also set out expectations of equitable access across the country. I.e.: “For the purposes of this standard, ‘authorities having jurisdiction’ should be clearly defined and applied consistently across provinces and territories.” And/or: “Implementation should aim for consistent expectations across jurisdictions to support equitable access to accessible childcare in Canada.”

Add a short statement such as: “Implementation should consider workforce capacity, including access to trained staff in rural and remote areas. Consideration should be given to training and other supports to enable consistent application of this standard.”

Add a short clarification such as: “Acoustic design should support children’s ability to regulate, communicate, and participate in programming, particularly for those who are sensitive to noise or auditory input.”

Add language such as: “Implementation of this standard should include staff training on a range of neurodiverse profiles and support needs, as well as tools to document and communicate individual accessibility requirements.” In addition, consideration should be given to structured tools that support consistency across staff. Horizon Education Foundation is developing a Canada Student Support Plan (CSSP) prototype document embedded in its National Education Framework initiative, which outlines key information such as student strengths, communication preferences, sensory sensitivities, triggers and effective supports. “The use of individualized child profiles (e.g., a ‘child passport’) can support continuity across staff, reduce reliance on informal knowledge, and improve consistency in how accessibility supports are applied.” In practice, accessibility often breaks down due to inconsistency. Families are required to repeatedly explain their child’s needs, and supports vary depending on staffing. Standardizing both training and how information is captured and shared improves consistency, reduces gaps in care, and leads to better outcomes for children. Tools like the Student Passport provide a practical way to operationalize accessibility beyond the physical environment and ensure that supports are actually implemented day to day.

Empowerment and independence: Wayfinding and signage in its various forms allow for autonomy and independent navigation, providing timely, accurate, and clear information in multiple formats when necessary, without the need for human assistance.

k. User consultation: Implementers and designers carry out consultation and user testing with user groups representing a diversity of lived disability experiences and communication methods when establishing/determining or altering the wayfinding and signage solutions. Individuals with lived experience must be meaningfully engaged throughout projects from the outset, including design, testing, implementation, and evaluation phases.

Include an additional principle (i.e., subsection 6.2.l) stating that regulated entities shall aim for the highest level of accessibility and usability possible, rather than minimum requirements for technical compliance.

iii. consistency and dispersion of luminance throughout interior and exterior spaces and along paths of travel.

Add language clarifying that supplementary lighting must be maintained across key environmental elements such as doors, stairs, handrails, elevators, and decision points, as well as supporting the visibility of architectural and navigational cues.

Designers shall prevent glare and shadow by: … and include an additional point specifying that light sources should not be partially or fully obstructed, as this can create shadows on the illuminated target and reduce visibility.

Revise subsection (b) to state that wayfinding systems shall provide supportive measures that include audible, visual, and tactile features together, rather than in partial combinations, wherever possible.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., 11.1.g) stating the need to ensure wayfinding systems should be applied consistently across buildings and facilities to improve predictability.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., 11.1.h) stating that the design of wayfinding solutions must consider the spatial needs of guide dog users, persons travelling with guides, and those communicating side-by-side using sign language.

Revise the wording to reflect that detectable paths of travel should include visual contrast in all cases, with particular consideration required for highly complex buildings and extensive areas.

Revise the note to include a requirement that protruding objects must also be cane-detectable where they cannot be removed or recessed.

d./e. have maintenance plans with provisions for the clearing and repair of all wayfinding and signage elements that are part of the space, ensuring accessible routes and wayfinding elements remain available, consistent, and detectable at all times for all users, including white cane users and guide dog handlers.

Include an additional requirement specifying that information about the meaning of textural changes or tactile elements should be made available in accessible formats (e.g., website, accessibility page, or other communication methods).

Revise the introduction to include clear definitions of TWSIs and the different types (e.g., attention and directional indicators), including their purpose and use.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., subsection 11.4.1.1.f) specifying that TWSI design and implementation must involve user testing with persons who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision, including white cane users, to ensure effectiveness and usability.

Include additional guidance referencing standardized definitions, layouts, and detection methods for different TWSI types to support consistent application.

Revise the note to clarify placement requirements and ensure consistency with the primary requirement that TWSIs are installed at the top of stairs and ramps.

Revise the setback distance from 300 mm to 150–200 mm, consistent with CNIB Clearing Our Path recommendations.

Revise the note to provide clearer guidance on colour differentiation, including recommended colour use for each type of TWSI to support consistency.

c. be installed within lateral reach or frontal reach wherever possible, and when installed within lateral or frontal reach shall include tactile text, graphical symbols, pictograms, and braille.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., subsection 12.1.j) specifying that signage should incorporate multiple communication systems (e.g., audible, visual, tactile) whenever possible, and that alternatives for signage should be made available where possible.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., subsection 12.1.k) specifying that effective signage should support independent navigation without the need for human or staff assistance.

Revise the note to clarify that where accessibility requirements are not applied, alternative accessible methods (e.g., staff or volunteer assistance) must be provided to ensure access to information.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., subsection 12.3.d) specifying that signage should include a QR code, website link, or contact information (preferably a phone number) to access additional information in accessible formats.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., subsection 12.3.d) specifying that information provided by signs should be validated through user testing with persons with disabilities, including individuals who are blind, partially sighted, and Deafblind, to ensure clarity, comprehension, and usability.

Include an additional requirement specifying that tactile signage should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure that tactile elements (e.g., raised text and braille) remain legible, intact, and effective over time.

Revise the clause to clarify that audible signage must provide information that is equivalent in content and timeliness to visual and tactile signage, ensuring equal access to all users. Revise subsection (a) to include that audible signage must also use an appropriate speech rate and clarity to ensure information is understandable.

Revise subsection 12.11.1.a to specify that digital signage must conform to recognized accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG Level AA or higher) and be compatible with assistive technologies.

Include an additional subsection (i.e., subsection 12.11.2.d) specifying that digital signage must provide auditory output or compatibility with assistive technologies to ensure access for individuals who cannot perceive visual information.

Include an additional requirement specifying that maintenance must prioritize critical accessibility elements such as tactile signage, braille, audible systems, lighting, and digital accessibility features.

Revise the clause to specify that periodic reviews must include consultation with persons with disabilities, including individuals who are blind, partially sighted, and Deafblind, to assess real-world usability and effectiveness.

recognizes the equity rights of all persons with disabilities in Canada

Any images reproduced in the final published document will have alt-text describing those images.

Remove this definition and replace all instances in the standard with “Accessible Format”.

Remove above text.

Cane-detectable — An object or surface texture modification that is within the reach of a long white cane tip, at or near ground level, that can be reliably identified.

Large print — text that is 16 to 18 point or larger.

a) incorporate the following: I) colour rendering (minimum Ra > 90); ii) colour temperature around 3000 K; and iii) colour rendering index between 90 CRI and 100 CRI; and

v) lighting should be down-cast and not directed horizontally into lines of sight.

e) ensure indoor spaces are lit to a minimum of 200 lx for interior paths of travel, stairs, ramps and escalators.

b) ensure that the UGR value does not exceed 16 in circulation areas and does not exceed 13 in habitable rooms

b) integrate artificial and natural lighting to provide comfortable, evenly distributed light at floor level and circulation routes, to minimize pools of light or shadows;

f) rooms and spaces should have multi-zoned lighting fixtures and options for spot lighting to support tasks for work surfaces, identifying hazards, reading signs, navigating spaces, increase visibility to speakers and interpreting sign language; and

Remove above clause

Note: Prioritize matte finishes. Use non-glossy or matte paint to minimize glare and reflections.

Note: Use bold contrasting colours like safety yellow for stair edges, handrails, door frames, and tactile warning tiles.

Note: Keep sign colours and layouts consistent throughout the environment.

Wayfinding is facilitated by well-designed indoor and outdoor environments that incorporate clear paths of travel, along with constructed and natural navigation cues such as edges, landmarks, signage, surface textures, lighting, and acoustics that can be detected through visual, tactile, and auditory means, as well as through the use of digital, smart technology.

a) be in an accessible format for the types of signage identified in Clauses 12.2.1, 12.2.2, 12.2.3, 12.2.4, 12.2.5, 12.2.6, and 12.2.7, with some exceptions.

Signs in outdoor spaces shall be provided at the start of trails and wherever trail conditions change significantly and include:

C. include alternative communication methods, i.e., an audible technology, braille booklet or similar accessible format.

A) Information signs should be placed in stairwells to identify all entry and exit points. B) Floor numbers should be displayed on each level at both the top and bottom of staircases.

Note 2: In some cases, signs that include variable messages shall display tactile elements for the permanent portion of the sign message. Note 3: Variable information shall be presented in an accessible format.

Remove note.

I will cite just one example of conflict, and how it causes issues in a somewhat circular fashion. I don’t necessarily propose a specific solution here, as I believe it should come from a consensus basis from the committee. This situation is specifically referring to outside, on a street corridor at a intersection or road crossing. A truncated dome tactile pad at a ramp letdown in Canada currently has (covering most situations) three different colours in practice. Most certainly, there are more with ‘one-offs’ that people can point to elsewhere beyond these three. The three colours that are all, generally speaking, compliant with surface contrast are yellow, safety red, and a rust/dirt red. The current draft standards do not specify a specific colour, only the contrast. However, there is a clause that suggest the colour should also correspond to the societal implications of meaning. So, is the intent of a truncated dome tactile pad a warning, or to stop before proceeding? This clause is important, as there are technical standards in Canada, in the form of the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices in Canada (MUTCDC) produced by others that specify colours for those purposes. (Red means stop, yellow means warning). Hence, this document should specify what the intent is of the purpose of this device, then choose a corresponding colour. The confusion is furthered when within this standard, it is assumed that a directional wayfinding tactile pad CANNOT be yellow, to avoid confusion with a truncated dome warning tactile pad. This then applies that a truncated dome pad should be yellow, yet, much of central and eastern Canada regions use red or rust as the colour for the tactile. However, referring back to the MUTCDC, is a directional tactile indicator then not a warning? Or is it something else? Would yellow not be an appropriate colour for such a device? Irrespective, the MUTCDC specifies specific colours for our transportation system (which includes sidewalks and pathways) and should be a considered parallel standard that needs to be followed. Either way, said devices must provide specific contrast on different surface types and colours, specifically concrete (sidewalks) and asphalt (sometimes sidewalks, walking, paths, and multi-use paths). Finally, one must also consider the practical implications of what is currently being manufactured versus what could be in the future. Most manufacturers in Canada do not produce a significant variety of colours in each of the truncated dome and directional indicators that offer both the contrast and the durability for our climates. There are many many more examples like this, regarding positioning, placement, etc. that I have identified within this draft guide that will cause real problems for implementation, and the standard does not provide specificity to one to apply the standard effectively and consistently.

Statements about exactly how to measure this, the uniformity ratio, the surface area to measure, and more.

Needs to be determined; some of the items are in contrast with one another.

Please contact me at peter.truch@me.com or (778) 215-3879 to discuss all of them, and to being to identify appropriate solutions.

Please email peter.truch@me.com or call (778) 215-3879 to discuss.

These should be included.

This ensures that more members of the population have universal access to the map.

10.1.2 a.ii. colour temperature at or less than 2700K using full spectrum lamps

Add a. ensure indoor spaces are lit to a minimum of 100 lx, and not more than X b. ensure outdoor spaces are lit in compliance with Clause 10.1.5, and not more than X

10.1.5.a maintain lighting levels of 50 lx and not more than X over frequently used paths of travel, including walkways, paths of travel, stairs, and ramps, measured at the ground;