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Individual 64580's submission

Feedback items
Item id
Test
Heading id
Test
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Test
What should we change it to?
Test
Why should we change it?
Test
Heading text
Test
Heading number portion
Test
Submission ID
64580
Submitted by
VWilliams
Submitted on
Wed, 01/21/2026 - 11:31
Consent to contact
No

Individual 64585's submission

CAN-ASC-2.2 – Emergency Egress (Exit)
Feedback items
Item id
1769024844989_514
Heading id
s6.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
As people with disabilities are increasingly demanding a say in their self-determination, they are no longer willing to wait for assistance, while others are evacuating a building. They wish to be provided with the same level of safety.
What should we change it to?
As people with disabilities are entitled to the same rights as people without those disabilities, they should not have to wait for assistance, while others are evacuating a building. They are entitled to the same level of safety as people without disabilities.
Why should we change it?
By itself, a demand or request without entitlement isn’t enough to set these standards. Recognizing entitlement is a straightforward and clear reason for them.
Heading text
6.2 Overview
Heading number portion
6.2
Item id
1769025154058_839
Heading id
s7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The requirements of this Standard shall apply to all of the following:Split up letter B into individual sections for clarity. a. b. the design, construction and occupancy of all new buildings; the alteration, major renovation (as defined by the NBC), reconstruction, relocation and occupancy of all existing buildings, including leased facilities; c. both site-built and factory-constructed buildings; and d. buildings with single stairwells.
What should we change it to?
Add the words, or rented, after the word, leased. a. b. the design, construction and occupancy of all new buildings; C. the alteration, major renovation (as defined by the NBC), . reconstruction, D. relocation and F. occupancy of all existing buildings, including leased and rented facilities; G. both site-built and factory-constructed buildings; and H. buildings with single stairwells.
Why should we change it?
It is possible for a building to be rented, and so this option must be part of this standard. The possibilities of reconstruction, relocation, and occupancy should not be merged into a single clause, as they are distinctly different.
Heading text
7.1 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.1
Item id
1769025250809_506
Heading id
s7.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The design requirements of this Standard apply to the design of new construction and major renovations, as defined by the NBC, for the federally regulated sector. This includes all major occupancy types, including multi-unit residential buildings and leased facilities. This edition of the standard does not address individual dwelling units.
What should we change it to?
Merge this clause with 7.1, or at least make them say the very same thing.
Why should we change it?
This would make the standard more focused, and consistent.
Heading text
7.3 Applications
Heading number portion
7.3
Item id
1769025407640_24
Heading id
s7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a section, 7.1.1. In section 10, there is a long list of possible emergencies. In the same way, we suggest that there should be a list of possible buildings, to ensure conformance with the standard.
What should we change it to?
Add this section :7.1.1 other inclusions This scope includes but are not limited too. Shopping centers Multi use buildings which have retail at the ground level, parking at levels 2, 3 or four, businesses at levels, 5, 6 and seven, and residential units above, or any combination. Sports stadiums Schools Parking garages Transit terminal, such as airports Hospitals and medical centers Venues for large gatherings, such as concert halls Structures that are close to flammable materials, such as a forest, or fuel storage. Factories Warehouses
Why should we change it?
Each of these building types, and there are probably others, require special attention to exit and egress methods for persons with disabilities in the case of an emergency.
Heading text
7.1 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.1
Item id
1769025600930_912
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Accessible egress path of travel — The accessible route that is used as the egress route from anywhere in the building to the accessible muster Terminology point. Accessible path of travel — The accessible route within the interior or exterior environment that is without barriers — Designated area within a building which has
What should we change it to?
Merge these two definitions, or create a note explaining the differences. Also 1. in the first definition, the word, terminology, does not seem to be correct. 2. The definition calls up the muster point. This should be expanded to, refuge, shelter, and waiting.
Why should we change it?
It is not clear what the difference is between these two terms
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025683138_234
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition for Individual dwelling units
What should we change it to?
Individual dwelling units are structures, such as a cottage, bungalow, semi detached, or town houses, residential only, each housing several people If the structure is a cottage, although it might be two or three stories, as long as it has related persons in it, this standard does not apply to it. If the structure is used largely as rental units for unrelated persons, such as a boarding house, or dormitory, then they are covered by this standard. If the structure is multistory, such as a duplex, triplex, or quadruplex, then it is covered by this standard as it is multi story. If a cottage or bungalow has been converted to a non-residential use, then it is covered by this standard.
Why should we change it?
The definition of individual dwelling unit needs clarification.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025732490_167
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition
What should we change it to?
Facility accessibility panel A panel of 3 to 7 persons, selected by the facility, emergency manager in cooperation and coordination with all persons with disabilities in the facility. Each person in this panel shall have a term of one year, and the panel will be re-selected every year by the facility, emergency manager in coordination and cooperation with all persons with disabilities in the facility
Why should we change it?
The mandate of accessibility standards Canada calls for, nothing about us, without us. In order to do this, the emergency management of a facility must have the input of persons with disabilities, and so an appropriate body must be formed and have the appropriate authority.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025810330_64
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The definitions for, accessible, and, barrier free, each list a few specific disabilities. Given that these are listed in more detail in The definition of disability, there should either be a cross reference, or just the use of the word disability, and remove the three or four descriptive words.
What should we change it to?
In the definitions of accessible, and, barrier free, remove the three or four words that describe some disabilities.
Why should we change it?
This will add clarity to the definition, and harmonize the definitions with each other.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025870061_444
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition
What should we change it to?
What we should change it to. Facility emergency manager This person shall be appointed by the building owner, or should there be shared ownership, such as a condominium or cooperative, by the governing body, such as the board of directors They will have the mandate to plan for, execute, improve, and do continuous improvement on every aspect of emergencies, including PEEP and risk assessment and mitigation. This would include selecting, training, and ensuring availability of buddies and floor wardens.
Why should we change it?
There are several places in this standard, which include the selection of buddies, training, inspections, and ongoing operations, which call upon a property owner or building Manager. There are possibilities that neither of these two positions exist, have the appropriate authority, or training to be involved in such an important manner as the management of emergencies. Wherever the words, building manager or property owner are in this standard, the facilities emergency manager position is to be understood or, for consistency and harmonization, use only the words, emergency facility manager.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025924562_202
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition
What should we change it to?
The phrase, fire compartment, is used once or twice in this standard, but not defined. I do not have the technical expertise to define it, but either do this, or change it to a more familiar term.
Why should we change it?
This is an important term, and so to be consistent and harmonized, it should be defined or replaced.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769026531769_197
Heading id
s9
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
10. Emergency egress for people with disabilities The National Fire Code (NFC) and the Provincial Fire Codes require that all buildings have a fire safety plan that includes information on emergency egress for all occupants, including people with disabilities. The ability of a person with a disability to safely evacuate a building is dependent upon the appropriate design of the building and the development and implementation of emergency procedures and practices that accommodate all building occupants.
What should we change it to?
Split up this section for clarity. Note. Some section renumbering might be necessary. 10. Emergency egress , training, and inspection 10.1 inspection As the NFC) and the Provincial Fire Codes require that all buildings have a fire safety plan that includes information on emergency and egress for all occupants, including people with disabilities. The ability of a person with a disability to safely evacuate a building is dependent upon the appropriate design of the building and the development and implementation of emergency procedures and practices that accommodate all building occupants. A. the facility, emergency manager, with the facility, accessibility panel, shall ensure that all personal emergency evacuation plans, conform with the NFB and provincial codes B. whenever an inspector from a fire department or other building code inspector does and inspection, they shall ensure that all Communication systems, egress routes, mustard, points, shelters, refuge and other structures that enable a person with a disability to evacuate safely or other items included in this Standard are in place and operate correctly. C. The facility accessibility panel Will participate in all inspections. .. This inspection shall take place no less than every 12 months, and if there are more than 200 occupants, twice per year. D. any part of the inspection that is shown as not in place or not operating correctly, either by the building code inspector, or fire department inspector, or by the facility accessibility panel , shall be treated by the fire department inspector or building code inspector with the same seriousness as a violation of their code , with the same due process. All documentation and due process concerning violations shall be copied to the facility accessibility panel. 10.2 Training A. a training program on the subject of this standard shall be developed by accessibility standards Canada within one year of the final standard being approved. B. The training program shall be mandatory for the facility, accessibility panel, facility, emergency manager, , emergency coordinator, buddies,officials and inspectors to attend this course as part of their orientation and on boarding, and have a refresher whenever a major part of the standard is changed. C. should a particular building have a violation found by the fire department inspector or building "inspector, then a training memorandum will be sent out to all the above concerned, persons with procedures to assure the violation does not occur again.
Why should we change it?
In order for a standard to be effective, it is vital that everyone concerned, knows what that standard is, and so a training program is necessary to ensure an even spread of knowledge. In addition, enforcement of a standard is necessary, otherwise, there are possibilities that it will not be used, and this might lead to tragic consequences.
Heading text
10. Emergency egress for people with disabilities
Heading number portion
10.
Item id
1769029239414_842
Heading id
s10
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
I feel this section is too long, and should be split up into sections 12, 13, etc., and the subsequent sections re-numbered What we should change it to. The sections would include.
What should we change it to?
Planning from the fire department Roles and responsibilities Personal emergency evacuation plan Before during and after an emergency And others.
Why should we change it?
These topics are too important to be smershed into one section. In addition, other standards, I have worked on have separate sections for roles and responsibilities, so then this standard would be harmonized with other standards What kind of suggestion are you making? General Section Number
Heading text
11. Practices and procedures
Heading number portion
11.
Item id
1769029463870_129
Heading id
heading-39
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The role of the emergency wardens Emergency wardens are individuals who are responsible for the safety of the people in their building or on their designated floors. The emergency wardens shall do the following:
What should we change it to?
Use the role of the facility, emergency manager, instead of floor warden.The role of the emergency wardens Emergency wardens are individuals who are responsible for the safety of the people in their building or on their designated floors.They work under the authority of the facility, emergency manager. In some cases, the facility emergency manager might also be the emergency warden. New text ends here The emergency wardens shall do the following:
Why should we change it?
In order to have consistency across the standard for roles and responsibilities, as well as authority, there must be harmonization between the terms used for the same function, but with different names. The names that are to be harmonized are. Facility emergency manager Building owner Property Manager Emergency warden or floor or fire warden Health and safety officer
Heading text
11.2.1.1 The role of the emergency wardens
Heading number portion
11.2.1.1
Item id
1769029589968_169
Heading id
heading-41
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The role of the person with a disability Some information on emergency egress issues that relate to individuals with various disabilities is provided in Annex A (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/18-annex-emergency-egress-issues-persons- disabilities). A person with a disability shall: a. develop a PEEP in conjunction with the emergency warden and buddies; b. ensure that emergency wardens and buddies know and understand their personal situation and how to best assist; c. describe their preferences as to lifting or transferring; d. describe any areas of concern such as loud noises, the use of assistive devices, areas of pain, etc.; e. know the location of the accessible egress routes and the areas of refuge; f. know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable; and g. be aware of the location of the muster points.
What should we change it to?
Add the following at the letter H. H. Be available for nomination to the facility, accessibility panel, and if chosen, ensure that all standards are met I. know who are the members of the facility, accessibility panel and facility, emergency manager and report to them any concerns about emergency egress, procedures, or conformity to standards J. As part of on boarding and orientation , with the appointed buddy, ensure you know the paths of egress, refuge, muster, shelter, points, and method of communication, and Test, the method of communication. K. if you are a visitor, ensure the facility emergency manager is aware that you are in the facility, has a copy of your PEEP, and with a buddy, review the appropriate emergency egress procedures
Why should we change it?
The more that a person with a disability can participate and have knowledge of the emergency egress procedures, the more likely it is that they will be able to safely. Exit the facility in the case of an emergency.
Heading text
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability
Heading number portion
11.2.1.3
Item id
1769029701838_12
Heading id
heading-42
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The role of the buddy The buddy shall do the following: a. Assist in notifying the person with a disability of an emergency. b. Know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable. c. Participate in the development of the PEEP. d. Be aware of the location of the accessible egress route and area of refuge. e. Know the appropriate way to communicate with and assist the person with a disability and discuss their PEEP. f. Be aware of the locations of the person with a disability that they are going to accompany. g. Be aware of the location of the muster points. h. Participate in fire drills with the person with the disability.
What should we change it to?
Add the following starting with letter I . I. as part of on boarding and orientation, practice the egress roots, muster, shelter, and refuse points, and test the method of communication with the person with a disability. J. If there are any parts of the standard that are not met , communicate immediately with the facility, emergency manager and the facility accessibility panel. K. If you are assigned to a visitor, ensure that you know, the PEEP, and, if applicable, practice the egress method, shelter, muster, and refuse points, and test the method of communication.
Why should we change it?
Practice makes perfect, and the steps necessary for a person with a disability to exit safely are more likely to succeed if a practice session has been done, and remediation for those concerns that are still evident.
Heading text
11.2.1.4 The role of the buddy
Heading number portion
11.2.1.4
Item id
1769029826624_825
Heading id
s11.4.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Evaluation and improvement After an emergency situation has taken place, an in-depth review shall be conducted on the effectiveness of the procedures that were developed and implemented. All drills and emergencies shall be documented to facilitate improvement. Potential improvements should be discussed frequently and openly. This discussion shall: a. be completed within 2 weeks of the emergency egress in a written format and an alternative format that is
What should we change it to?
After the words, Potential improvements should be discussed frequently and openly, Add another sentence. 11.4.3 Post-emergency: Evaluation and improvement After an emergency situation has taken place, an in-depth review shall be conducted on the effectiveness of the procedures that were developed and implemented. All drills and emergencies shall be documented to facilitate improvement. Potential improvements should be discussed frequently and openly. If the in-depth review shows areas of concern that are life-threatening, these should be reported to the fire department inspector, or building code inspector, and be treated as serious violations with the due process of the inspection agency. These serious violations shall be reported to the facility, emergency manager and the facility accessibility panel.
Why should we change it?
Any life-threatening concern should be treated with the appropriate seriousness of the situation, and the authorities with the mandate to remedy the situation and enforce any improvements must be part of the process.
Heading text
11.4.3 Post-emergency: Evaluation and improvement
Heading number portion
11.4.3
Item id
1769030340629_822
Heading id
heading-41
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability .
What should we change it to?
Change the title of the section by enlarging it to those who need assistance 11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability or who requires assistance that impacts emergency egress.
Why should we change it?
The title of this section should conform with the definition of a person who must complete a PEEP. and highlight that there are other persons than those with disabilities, such as seniors, or persons with children, that might also need assistance.
Heading text
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability
Heading number portion
11.2.1.3
Item id
1769030439701_839
Heading id
s11.3.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
11.3.2 Employee Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
What should we change it to?
Change the title to include all those who are not visitors 11.3.2 occupant, residence, and full and part time Employee Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
Why should we change it?
Parts of this draft standard focus on office buildings and office employees, but there are many other kinds of buildings that have other kinds of occupants. In order to be inclusive, there must be a more functional definition so that , all those who are present a major part of time must be part of this section. For information, here is the definition of visitor. occupants of a building who are not present on a regular, known and consistent basis. This could include patrons, employees in a hybrid or co-working workplace who work in an office space on an irregular basis, or employees in activity-based workplaces. This wording of employee should be changed wherever it occurs.
Heading text
11.3.2 Employee Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
Heading number portion
11.3.2
Item id
1769030535061_571
Heading id
heading-41
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability Some information on emergency egress issues that relate to individuals with various disabilities is provided in Annex A (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/18-annex-emergency-egress-issues-persons- disabilities). A person with a disability shall: a. develop a PEEP in conjunction with the emergency warden and buddies; b. ensure that emergency wardens and buddies know and understand their personal situation and how to best assist; c. describe their preferences as to lifting or transferring; d. describe any areas of concern such as loud noises, the use of assistive devices, areas of pain, etc.; e. know the location of the accessible egress routes and the areas of refuge;f. know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable; and g. be aware of the location of the muster points.
What should we change it to?
Add a clause, H, at the end about risk mitigation 11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability Some information on emergency egress issues that relate to individuals with various disabilities is provided in Annex A (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/18-annex-emergency-egress-issues-persons- disabilities). A person with a disability shall: a. develop a PEEP in conjunction with the emergency warden and buddies; b. ensure that emergency wardens and buddies know and understand their personal situation and how to best assist; c. describe their preferences as to lifting or transferring; d. describe any areas of concern such as loud noises, the use of assistive devices, areas of pain, etc.; e. know the location of the accessible egress routes and the areas of refuge;f. know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable; and g. be aware of the location of the muster points. New text starts here H. Discuss the risk profile of the facility with the facility, emergency manager, which may include age of the building, combustible materials in the building, sprinklers or not, which building codes are older, grandfathered, and not up-to-date, code violations, received from the fire department or other authorities, proximity to other dangers, and anything else the facility manager may be aware of. If appropriate, discuss reducing the risk by changing the location of the work, occupation, or residence , by increasing the proximity to refuge, shelter, waiting, exit doors, elevators, stairs, egress pads, or selecting other facilities.
Why should we change it?
There might be a particular combination of risks in a facility, as well as a combination of difficulties in emergency egress in a particular person, that would point to other kinds of risk, mitigation than buddies or evacuation plans. one way to do this is to change the location of the person with a disability physical location to one more favorable to egress during an emergency situation.
Heading text
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability
Heading number portion
11.2.1.3
Item id
1769030692215_818
Heading id
s12.1.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Buildings shall be provided with areas of refuge on levels above and below the level served by an immediate accessible exit and egress path of travel leading directly outside
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence describing what happens if it is a one story building, such as a factory, warehouse, or logistics hub. Also, expand refuge area, too, muster , shelter, or waiting areas. 12.1.1 Application Buildings shall be provided with areas of refuge, muster, shelter, and waiting areas on levels above and below the level served by an immediate accessible exit and egress path of travel leading directly outside. In the case of one story buildings, the areas of refuge, muster, shelter, and waiting shall be located in such a way that they are safe from the situation of the emergency, and close to the path of egress.
Why should we change it?
In general, this standard is written from the perspective of multi story, office buildings, however, there a many kinds of buildings, including residences, one story, industrial buildings, such as factories, warehouses, and logistic hubs. The standard must have the appropriate language to accommodate these situations.
Heading text
12.1.1 Application
Heading number portion
12.1.1
Item id
1769030780470_230
Heading id
heading-61
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The number of areas of refuge on each storey shall be provided based on half the number of exits required by the applicable building code serving that storey. Note: Decimal numbers should be rounded up to the nearest whole number. Other considerations: a. the building use; and b. the anticipated number of visitors.
What should we change it to?
Add conditions at the end, indicating that the number of persons occupying or employed in the building shall be part of the consideration of number of refuge areas. 12.1.1.1 Number of areas of refuge The number of areas of refuge on each storey shall be provided based on half the number of exits required by the applicable building code serving that storey. Note: Decimal numbers should be rounded up to the nearest whole number. Other considerations: a. the building use; and b. the anticipated number of visitors. New text starts here C. Number of persons occupying or employed in the facility D. the proportion of staff available to eat in evacuation, such as buddies, compared to the number of persons employed in or occupying the building.
Why should we change it?
. One would imagine that the building code would include clauses about a, and B, at the end of this clause, and perhaps also the addition we are making, about number of occupants and amount of assistance available. However, given that conditions, a, and B, were included, this would indicate that these conditions are not in the building code, and so we feel that other conditions must be added. Condition D is very important in the case of shopping centers, sports stadiums, factories with a high density of employees, condominiums, where the number of staff or buddies are low compared to the actual number of people in the facility. In these cases, Moore, areas of refuge must be available to make up for the small amount of assistance available. Note. The same analysis should be applied to muster, shelter, waiting, or any other areas where persons might congregate in the event of an emergency.
Heading text
12.1.1.1 Number of areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.1.1
Item id
1769030908022_650
Heading id
s12.1.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Note: An example of a fire compartment in this Clause includes an elevator lobby.
What should we change it to?
Add specifications after the words,includes an elevator lobby Note: An example of a fire compartment in this Clause includes an elevator lobby, New text starts here only if the elevator lobby is protected from the emergency situation, such as fire, and compliant with clause 12.1.3 It will be marked in the same way as refuge area in a prominent way.
Why should we change it?
A description of an elevator lobby, as a place of refuge is too vague, and may result in persons with disabilities gathering in front of an elevator door, but not be protected from the emergency situation. Clarification must be given to this note so that if this particular space is a place of refuge, then it must comply with the standards for this type of space. Note. The words, fire compartment, are used in this note, and have not been previously used or defined.
Heading text
12.1.2 Location of the areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.2
Item id
1769031001934_624
Heading id
s12.1.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.3 General Areas of refuge shall be: a. located on an accessible route; b. smoke-protected; c. illuminated at a minimum of 200 lux; and d. provided with an evacuation device nearby.
What should we change it to?
Add other conditions to make it more survivable as a place of refuge starting with letter E. 12.1.3 General Areas of refuge shall be: a. located on an accessible route; b. smoke-protected; c. illuminated at a minimum of 200 lux; and d. provided with an evacuation device nearby New text starts here E. Full range of communication systems backed up by fire resistant and emergency power f. have separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems supported by a backup generator.
Why should we change it?
A place of refuge is a place where one could survive a situation. Emergency for enough time until assistance is available to leave the building. This could easily be 10, 15, or 20 minutes, and so there must be enough protection, plus reliable communications, to enable survival.
Heading text
12.1.3 General
Heading number portion
12.1.3
Item id
1769031080232_908
Heading id
s12.1.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge A door serving an immediate area of refuge shall: a. b. be leakage-rated complying with NFPA 105; have a clear width complying with CSA/ASC B651; c. be equipped with a power door operator capable of being activated in the event of a loss of power via emergency power or alternative power
What should we change it to?
In C Add a phrase after the words, alternate power so that a door can be manually operated. 12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge A door serving an immediate area of refuge shall: a. b. be leakage-rated complying with NFPA 105; have a clear width complying with CSA/ASC B651; c. be equipped with a power door operator capable of being activated in the event of a loss of power via emergency power or alternative power New text starts here or manually.
Why should we change it?
Many emergency situations result in loss of power, either because of the emergency itself, or power being cut off from the entire facility as a measure of caution. For these reasons, it is necessary to have the door being operated manually, so that no one is trapped inside.
Heading text
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.4
Item id
1769031174110_477
Heading id
s12.1.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge The interior of an area of refuge shall: a. provide a minimum of two waiting spaces to accommodate a clear unobstructed floor space not less than 900 mm by 1500 mm for each space; b. be served by a 2100 mm turning radius; c. be located clear of any adjacent door swing; d. be illuminated, minimum 200 lux; e. be connected to the backup power; and f. be free of protrusions.
What should we change it to?
Add letter G , indicating that the size of this area should be calculated according to the appropriate code or the number of people that might use it. 12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge The interior of an area of refuge shall: a. provide a minimum of two waiting spaces to accommodate a clear unobstructed floor space not less than 900 mm by 1500 mm for each space; b. be served by a 2100 mm turning radius; c. be located clear of any adjacent door swing; d. be illuminated, minimum 200 lux; e. be connected to the backup power; and f. be free of protrusions. New text starts here G. have a size calculated according to the appropriate fire or building code or number of people who might use it.
Why should we change it?
This clause is for the minimum size of a refuge area, and a quick reading of it might indicate that a space for two persons is adequate. It is necessary to indicate that the space might be larger than for two persons, and that the appropriate code is followed
Heading text
12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.5
Item id
1769031327368_584
Heading id
s12.1.6
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.6 Clear waiting space The clear waiting space shall: a. be connected to the accessible path of travel; b. be recessed away from the common path of travel; c. be positioned to avoid someone being directly in front of or behind another individual; d. be clearly delineated along the floor; e. not be located directly facing the stairs or behind the exit door; and f. have separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems supported by a backup generator.
What should we change it to?
Add letter G and H G. be safe and used in those cases where the person's exiting the facility need to pause , for any reason, between their original spot, for a short period of time on their path to egress the emergency situation. H. Have complete access to all communication, facilities, backed up by emergency power
Why should we change it?
Specifications must be added to the waiting area to ensure they are survivable while they are being used
Heading text
12.1.6 Clear waiting space
Heading number portion
12.1.6
Item id
1769033950214_342
Heading id
s12.1.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.8 Signage An area of refuge shall have an identification sign on the door stating the type of area with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door or appropriate place,, complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1
What should we change it to?
Harmonize this signage standard to all areas, not just refuge. Add requirements that sign must have location information. 12.1.8 Signage An area of refuge, shelter, muster point, or waiting area shall have an identification sign on the door or appropriate place stating the AREA with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door, or appropriate place complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1 New text starts here All of these signs will have information on them, which gives the location in a way that emergency personnel can easily locate them. All signage will Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, color, and contrast and standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
The standard for signage should be harmonized throughout all areas where persons might congregate while waiting for evacuation. In a large facility, and during an emergency, it is easy to lose track of location. For this reason, every refuge room shelter, waiting area, muster point , , and waiting area, shall have signage that indicates the location in a way that enables emergency personnel to easily know the location of the person in the shelter, refuge, muster, or waiting area.
Heading text
12.1.8 Signage
Heading number portion
12.1.8
Item id
1769034003246_665
Heading id
s12.1.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
An area of refuge shall have an identification sign on the door stating AREA OF REFUGE with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door, complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1 Directional signage Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage to the area of refuge shall be provided at decision points throughout the building
What should we change it to?
Add a line after the description of directional signage. 12.1.8 Signage An area of refuge shall have an identification sign on the door stating AREA OF REFUGE with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door, complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1 Every Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage to the area of refuge shall be provided at decision points throughout the building. New text starts here directional sign at every decision point shall have an additional identification that identifies the location of the decision point in a way that makes it easy for emergency personnel to know the location of whoever is referencing that particular decision point. Each directional sign shall be self luminous. This location identification shall also be in braille and large print
Why should we change it?
In a large facility, and during an emergency, it is easy to lose track of location. For this reason, every directional sign at every decision point , shall have marking that indicates the location in a way that enables emergency personnel to easily know the location of the person in at the directional sign or decision point..
Heading text
12.1.8 Signage
Heading number portion
12.1.8
Item id
1769034112646_858
Heading id
s12.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
Doors and power doors are listed in several sections of the standard, but there seems to be inconsistencies in what happens during an emergency. Some sections called for power back up, some call for connection to emergency back up or generator,. . None handle the possibility of a complete power or power back up failure.
What should we change it to?
The standard should be made consistent, especially being able to open the door manually, when all else fails.
Why should we change it?
It is important for a standard to be consistent, and the description in this draft standard around door operation in a emergency seem to be less than consistent. 5. What kind of suggestion are you making?
Heading text
12.2.1 Power door operators on horizontal exit doors
Heading number portion
12.2.1
Item id
1769034218262_320
Heading id
s12.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.3.1 Interior egress path of travel The interior egress path of travel shall comply with CSA/ASC-B651. Static escalators, stair lifts and moving walks shall not be permitted as part of the interior egress path of travel. All elements in the interior egress path of travel shall be accessible, including: a. to and from all floor areas of a building; and b. to and from all interior doors to exterior exit doors. In addition, the interior egress path of travel shall: a. where there is a rise over 13 mm, have a slope of no steeper than 1:25. See Ramps 12.7; b. be free of protrusions to a height of 2100 mm; c. be illuminated to a minimum level of 200 lux; andd. be free of overly patterned carpeting.
What should we change it to?
Add extra conditions starting with D. 12.3.1 Interior egress path of travel The interior egress path of travel shall comply with CSA/ASC-B651. Static escalators, stair lifts and moving walks shall not be permitted as part of the interior egress path of travel. All elements in the interior egress path of travel shall be accessible, including: a. to and from all floor areas of a building; and b. to and from all interior doors to exterior exit doors. In addition, the interior egress path of travel shall: a. where there is a rise over 13 mm, have a slope of no steeper than 1:25. See Ramps 12.7; b. be free of protrusions to a height of 2100 mm; c. be illuminated to a minimum level of 200 lux; andd. be free of overly patterned carpeting. New text starts here D. Have lighting connected to emergency back up power, which will also light up directional signs at every decision point. E. Where possible, egress paths will have illuminated, or self luminous directional markings on the floor. F. Signage identifying the egress pads shall be identified on the emergency fire safety map posted throughout the building.
Why should we change it?
In an emergency, often power is disrupted, or disconnected by emergency personnel. In such a case, the interior of the building can become quite dark, and so it is necessary to have emergency back up power on all egress paths as well as directional signs.
Heading text
12.3.1 Interior egress path of travel
Heading number portion
12.3.1
Item id
1769034303933_38
Heading id
s12.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.4 Muster points All buildings shall have muster points served by an accessible exterior egress path of travel. The muster point shall be a minimum of 3000 mm x 3000 mm. Signage with the muster point symbol shall be provided between 1600 mm and 2500 mm above the ground surface. Signage identifying the muster points shall be identified on the emergency fire safety map posted throughout the building. Benches or seating provided for the muster point shall comply with CSA/ASC B651. The muster point shall: a. be provided with a rest area equipped with a bench or seating alternative; b. have a pavement marking not less than 1 m by 1 m identifying the international symbol of muster points, where located on a hard surface; c. be illuminated; and d. be recessed away from and served by an exterior egress path of travel complying with Clause 12.3.2.
What should we change it to?
Add conditions starting with letter E. , 12.4 Muster points All buildings shall have muster points served by an accessible exterior egress path of travel. The muster point shall be a minimum of 3000 mm x 3000 mm. Signage with the muster point symbol shall be provided between 1600 mm and 2500 mm above the ground surface. Signage identifying the muster points shall be identified on the emergency fire safety map posted throughout the building. Benches or seating provided for the muster point shall comply with CSA/ASC B651. The muster point shall: a. be provided with a rest area equipped with a bench or seating alternative; b. have a pavement marking not less than 1 m by 1 m identifying the international symbol of muster points, where located on a hard surface; c. be illuminated; and d. be recessed away from and served by an exterior egress path of travel complying with Clause 12.3.2. New text starts here E. have a size that is calculated with information about the use of the building, the size of the building, number of occupants or visitors, distance from the egress door, factors that might make the speed to get out of the building important, availability and numbers of of buddies or staff members to aid in persons with disabilities. F. be connected with all communication facilities, which will be backed up by battery or emergency generators. H. Be connected to emergency ventilation systems
Why should we change it?
The purpose of a muster point is to allow accumulation and survival of persons until assistance arrives. The size of this muster point is dependent on many factors , and these must be part of the standard.
Heading text
12.4 Muster points
Heading number portion
12.4
Item id
1769034382837_938
Heading id
s12.6.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.6.1 Tactile information on stair and ramp handrails Stair and ramp handrails shall have raised characters with braille permanently fixed on the underside of the horizontal section, at the beginning and at the end of every handrail on stairs indicating: a. the floor number; b. the direction of egress; and c. the exit floor shall be indicated by a tactile star.
What should we change it to?
Add a phrase, D, that the signage on the underside should also indicate the location of the stairwell. 12.6.1 Tactile information on stair and ramp handrails Stair and ramp handrails shall have raised characters with braille permanently fixed on the underside of the horizontal section, at the beginning and at the end of every handrail on stairs indicating: a. the floor number; b. the direction of egress; and c. the exit floor shall be indicated by a tactile star. New text starts here D. the location of the stairwell Will be marked in such a way that emergency personnel can easily identify the exact location of that particular railing.
Why should we change it?
An emergency often causes a person to not know exactly where they are. In order for emergency personnel to be able to locate and aid in the egress of any person, they must know exactly the location of a person, should that person need to be rescued from that location. For that reason, just knowing the floor number on a stairwell is not sufficient. It is necessary to know exactly which stairwell, which building, between which floors, which landing, so that exact location is known.
Heading text
12.6.1 Tactile information on stair and ramp handrails
Heading number portion
12.6.1
Item id
1769034479380_367
Heading id
s11
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
Harmonize the specifications and conditions for refuge, muster, shelter, waiting, and fire compartment areas
What should we change it to?
Harmonize the condition, such as lighting, emergency power, signage, Communications, and size
Why should we change it?
The areas listed are all a place where persons with disabilities might congregate during an emergency, waiting for evacuation. It is my feeling that these specifications and conditions are not harmonized, and an effort should be made to do so.
Heading text
12. Built environment
Heading number portion
12.
Item id
1769034601388_882
Heading id
s12.1.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.7 Areas of refuge communication A communication system shall: a. be provided in each area of refuge; b. c. be equipped with a hands-free two-way communication system that is at a maximum height of 1200 mm; provide feedback to occupants acknowledging receipt of their communication (similar to an elevator); d. be adjacent to a clear space of 900 x 1500 mm; e. be connected to backup power; f. g. be connected to an emergency response system; have a two-way texting system complying with International Telecommunications Union (ITU) V.18, “Operational and interworking requirements for DCEs operating in the text telephone mode,” to support people who are Deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing; and h. be linked to security or emergency call centre. A communication system should be equipped with a volume control device
What should we change it to?
Add one more condition, letter I. I. all communication systems that a person with a disability might use will be available, resilient, and fire resistant in this and all areas used in emergency situations.
Why should we change it?
Persons with disabilities use many communication systems, the most popular one is the smart phone connected to Wi-Fi or mobile cellular systems. The communication system used inside a facility must be compatible with, and fire resistant, so that communication can be maintained.
Heading text
12.1.7 Areas of refuge communication
Heading number portion
12.1.7
Item id
1769034879375_83
Heading id
s13.1.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
A single-stage system is designed so that, when activated, the alarm signal shall be immediately transmitted throughout the building to warn the occupants that an emergency exists.
What should we change it to?
Add more description at the end of this item to make it more clear to a person with a disability through the appropriate communication channels, and updates until all clear signals are given 13.1.1 Single-stage system A single-stage system is designed so that, when activated, the alarm signal shall be immediately transmitted throughout the building to warn the occupants that an emergency exists. New text starts here The alarm signal that is transmitted will use Barrier free communication systems that are compatible with the needs of persons with disabilities. Because there is no action necessary when this signal is transmitted, a subsequent, all clear, signal will be transmitted to indicate that the emergency has been resolved. To ensure that the system is failsafe, if a period of more than three minutes passes before the, all clear, signal is transmitted, another signal, indicating that the emergency is still pending, but not resolved, will be transmitted every three minutes. If possible, when the, pending signal is transmitted, a description of the emergency, location, seriousness, action, being taken, would also be helpful.
Why should we change it?
To a person with a disability, receiving a signal that indicates an emergency is ongoing causes enormous stress, and anxiety. It might also cause them to put themselves in danger by trying to protect themselves, perhaps moving to another location, calling a buddy or other assistance, person, putting on protective clothing, or while trying to activate their personal communication device, make it inoperable. For this reason, when an emergency alarm is activated, there must be the knowledge that the process will keep every person up-to-date, on a regular and frequent basis, as well as declare and all clear. Can we clarify in a Single stage System how a notification of an evacuation is handled. What kind of suggestion are you making?
Heading text
13.1.1 Single-stage system
Heading number portion
13.1.1
Item id
1769034983925_723
Heading id
s13.1.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
In a two-stage alarm system, a distinct alert signal shall first advise of the emergency. Note: A two-stage system is used in facilities where the immediate evacuation of the occupants is neither desired nor practical. The second notification in the two-stage alarm system will advise occupants on how to proceed. C-section 13 point XX Both single stage and two stage systems cause the fire alarm panel to send signals to the fire department or monitoring station (fire alarm receiving centre or 9-1-1 Centre). Alarm signals to evacuate occupants do not sound. Notification is via a voice announcement. Technical requirements for fire alarm systems are provided in the NFC.
What should we change it to?
Add a paragraph at the end. The alarm signal that is transmitted will use Barrier free communication systems that are compatible with the needs of persons with disabilities. Because there is no action necessary when parts of this signal is transmitted, a , all clear, signal will be transmitted to indicate that the emergency has been resolved. To ensure that the system is failsafe, if a period of more than three minutes passes before the, all clear, signal is transmitted, another signal, indicating that the emergency is still pending, but not resolved, will be transmitted every three minutes. If possible, when the, pending signal is transmitted, a description of the emergency, seriousness, action, being taken, would also be helpful. If there are any Voice announcements, there will be a identical transmission of this message in a barrier freeway that works for the communication systems used by persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
An emergency signal causes stress and anxiety for persons with disability. For this reason, all signals must be clear, and updates and all clear signals must be part of the process.
Heading text
13.1.2 Two-stage system
Heading number portion
13.1.2
Item id
1769035041854_181
Heading id
s13.1.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
13.1.2 Two-stage system In a two-stage alarm system, a distinct alert signal shall first advise of the emergency. Note: A two-stage system is used in facilities where the immediate evacuation of the occupants is neither desired nor practical. The second notification in the two-stage alarm system will advise occupants on how to proceed. Both single stage and two stage systems cause the fire alarm panel to send signals to the fire department or monitoring station (fire alarm receiving centre or 9-1-1 Centre). Alarm signals to evacuate occupants do not sound. Notification is via a voice announcement.
What should we change it to?
There are a few statements in this section that should be clarified. 1. Note: A two-stage system is used in facilities where the immediate evacuation of the occupants is neither desired nor practical. Can you give some examples? Prisons? Hospitals? This signal is not when there is an immediate need for an evacuation, but how long might it take before that need becomes necessary. 2. Alarm signals to evacuate occupants do not sound. Notification is via a voice announcement. If notification is given using voice, what about persons who are deaf, or DEF Blind. 3. Like the single stage system, there must be communication while the emergency is pending as updates, on a frequent basis, as well as an all clear signal. 4. Clarify that the, how to proceed, signal, might be a signal to evacuate, although this is neither immediate, planned nor desirable
Why should we change it?
This section is somewhat less than clear, and needs to be clarified.
Heading text
13.1.2 Two-stage system
Heading number portion
13.1.2
Item id
1769035112948_330
Heading id
s13.1.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a line at the end of both section
What should we change it to?
Add this line at the end of each of these two sections. The visible strobe signal in the event of a fire, shall also be accompanied by a communication Barrier free systems that use communication systems used by persons with disabilities.. C-section 13 point XX.
Why should we change it?
A visible stroke signal will not work for persons with certain disabilities, in particular those with impaired vision or no vision. In addition, certain neurodivergent conditions might be triggered by an intense strobe light.
Heading text
13.1.3 Where a fire alarm system is provided
Heading number portion
13.1.3
Item id
1769035195693_470
Heading id
heading-90
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats Building managers shall ensure communication systems that can alert all building occupants are in place in the event of an emergency. Note 1: Clear and efficient communication with everyone, including regular occupants and visitors, will enhance the safety of all building users during an emergency. All building occupants shall: a. b. receive emergency egress information in the format of their choice; and discuss format choices during the preparation of an individual’s personal emergency egress plan. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation.
What should we change it to?
Add letter F 13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats Building managers shall ensure communication systems that can alert all building occupants are in place in the event of an emergency. Note 1: Clear and efficient communication with everyone, including regular occupants and visitors, will enhance the safety of all building users during an emergency. All building occupants shall: a. b. receive emergency egress information in the format of their choice; and Receive egress information in the format selected during the preparation of an individual’s personal emergency egress plan. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation. New text starts here F. ensure barrier free communication systems backed up by emergency power or generators are available that are compatible with all communication systems used by persons with disabilities
Why should we change it?
During an emergency, Communications are absolutely vital to ensure efficient egress and survival. The communication systems used by persons with disabilities, in various format, must be connected with the communication, alarm and notification systems in the building.
Heading text
13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats
Heading number portion
13.1.4.1
Item id
1769035258541_642
Heading id
heading-90
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Building managers shall ensure communication systems that can alert all building occupants are in place in the event of an emergency. Note 1: Clear and efficient communication with everyone, including regular occupants and visitors, will enhance the safety of all building users during an emergency. All building occupants shall: a. b. receive emergency egress information in the format of their choice; and discuss format choices during the preparation of an individual’s personal emergency egress plan. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation.
What should we change it to?
Replace the following phrase. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation. And replace with Some building occupants may need information in a format identified in the personal emergency evacuation plan, or any other Barrier free format that works with communication systems used by persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
The technology that persons with disabilities use is changing rapidly. Some of those listed here, such as electronic pagers, are no longer used, and some, such as smart glasses, or smart phones, with speech to text or text to speech, are not mentioned at all. For this reason, a more functional specification should be used.
Heading text
13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats
Heading number portion
13.1.4.1
Item id
1769035391364_604
Heading id
s13.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.2.1 Alerting or signaling devices There are a variety of signaling devices available that provide either visible, audible or tactile cues to signal an alarm. Information on alerting devices and emergency alerting systems in Canada is provided in Annex C (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc- 22-emergency-egress-exit/20-annex-c-emergency-alerting-and-communication-technologies-persons-disabilities). Lower frequency audible alarms should be provided for people who are hard of hearing. Note: They are particularly effective when the building occupant is asleep. Also available for people sleeping are assistive technologies that provide alerts by a flashing light and/or a pillow vibrating device placed under the pillow when triggered by a fire or smoke alarm.
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence before Lower frequency audible alarms should be provided for people who are hard of hearing Add the following This standard works in certain situations, but other technologies and devices shall be used in particular, those Communication barrier free systems and devices that are suitable for persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
The standard specified in NXC is really made for emergency alerts over an entire area, not in a particular building. In addition, it is somewhat limited, and so a functional description must be added. For this reason, other devices and techniques must be used that work for persons with disabilities in a particular facility, or a part of a particular facility.
Heading text
13.2.1 Alerting or signaling devices
Heading number portion
13.2.1
Item id
1769035531660_752
Heading id
s13.2.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.2.2 Visible device location Visible signal devices (strobes) shall be connected to a power source and emit a strobe light. The signal shall be provided in both public and private areas of a building. Visible signal devices shall be; a. located in conformance with the installation requirements for visible signal devices in CAN/ULC-S524.
What should we change it to?
Add a phrase at the end Every visible signal Location shall also have technologies that enable any person with a disability to receive the same message as if they were able to receive the information from the visible signal device in a barrier freeway compatible with the technology used by persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
Visible signal devices work for the general population, but there are many persons with disabilities for whom this is not appropriate. For this reason, technologies must be added to these devices to ensure that every occupant, resident, or visitor can receive the message sent by the visible signal device.
Heading text
13.2.2 Visible device location
Heading number portion
13.2.2
Item id
1769035716362_860
Heading id
s13.2.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.2.3 Smart phonesCommunication tools such as smart phones or mobile phones are increasingly being used by everyone. They are an excellent form of communication as they can receive audio and tactile alerts to notify of an incoming message and can be used in text and voice (audible) formats. Alert signals shall be transmitted via the National Public Alert System by all telecommunications providers. See Annex C (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/20-annex-c-emergency-alerting-and- communication-technologies-persons-disabilities) for information on national and provincial alert systems.
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence at the end indicating the difference between the standard listed in annex C, which is a general, widespread notification system, and the notifications necessary in and particular facility during an emergency. 13.2.3 Smart phonesCommunication tools such as smart phones or mobile phones are increasingly being used by everyone. They are an excellent form of communication as they can receive audio and tactile alerts to notify of an incoming message and can be used in text and voice (audible) formats. Alert signals shall be transmitted via the National Public Alert System by all telecommunications providers. See Annex C (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/20-annex-c-emergency-alerting-and- communication-technologies-persons-disabilities) for information on national and provincial alert systems. New text starts here the notification system described in NXC is used for widespread announcements of emergency situations. every facility must also have an notification system suitable for use by persons with disabilities at the beginning, during, and at the end of any emergency. smart phones and devices are suitable for this notification system, but there might be certain persons with disabilities who require other devices or systems to be aware of emergency egress and exit instructions during an emergency
Why should we change it?
The system described in annex is designed for use to alert a general population of an emergency in a particular area. It may not be suitable for all persons with disabilities, or might be too widespread to be of use during the emergency instructions necessary to perform a safe egress from a facility. For this reason, the standard must be amended to ensure that all situations are covered, not just those by the technology in annex C.
Heading text
13.2.3 Smart phones
Heading number portion
13.2.3
Item id
1769035923923_942
Heading id
s13.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.3 Emergency telephones Where provided, an emergency telephone shall: a. b. c. d. e. display the symbol for an Emergency Phone; provide its operable parts not more than 1200 mm from the floor; have the illumination level measured at the operating devices at least 200 lux; be hearing aid compatible; and have a volume control with amplification of (30-50 dB).
What should we change it to?
Add a few conditions at the end starting with letter F to enable all persons with disabilities, particular, blind, or deaf, to have a safe emergency egress. 13.3 Emergency telephones 13.3 Emergency telephones Where provided, an emergency telephone shall: a. b. c. d. e. display the symbol for an Emergency Phone; provide its operable parts not more than 1200 mm from the floor; have the illumination level measured at the operating devices at least 200 lux; be hearing aid compatible; and have a volume control with amplification of (30-50 dB). New text starts here F connected to an emergency backup generator or emergency backup battery system G. have signage indicating the exact location of the emergency telephone so that emergency personnel can easily identify the position of any caller H. Ensure that for any person with a disability for whom the emergency telephone is not suitable, that every other system used in a barrier free way by persons with disability of communication works in the same location as the emergency telephone..
Why should we change it?
The emergency telephone does not work for all persons, and in all those locations, all other communication systems must work also.
Heading text
13.3 Emergency telephones
Heading number portion
13.3
Item id
1769035989961_665
Heading id
s13.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.4 Public announcements Whenever a public announcement is provided in an audio format, it shall be provided at designated areas on all floors of a building in text display and transmitted electronically to building occupants. All public announcements relating to emergency egress shall be provided in a variety of formats, including: a. audible announcements; b. broadcasting to hearing technologies and implantable devices; c. visual announcements; and d. electronic announcements. Note: Variable message boards should also be used. When provided, variable message boards shall: a. b. not use pre-recorded messages for emergency information; utilize a well-contrasted characters (avoiding red and green or blue on a black background); c. be mounted at a maximum height of 1500 mm; and d. be centrally located.
What should we change it to?
Add a line starting with letter E to ensure that whatever communication system is used, that there be a communication system that works for every person with a disability. 13.4 Public announcements Whenever a public announcement is provided in an audio format, it shall be provided at designated areas on all floors of a building in text display and transmitted electronically to building occupants. All public announcements relating to emergency egress shall be provided in a variety of formats, including: a. audible announcements; b. broadcasting to hearing technologies and implantable devices; c. visual announcements; and d. electronic announcements. New text starts here E. Every public announcement or message Board notification will also be communicated using Barrier free communication systems and devices that are compatible with those used by persons with disabilities. New text ends here Note: Variable message boards should also be used. When provided, variable message boards shall: a. b. not use pre-recorded messages for emergency information; utilize a well-contrasted characters (avoiding red and green or blue on a black background); c. be mounted at a maximum height of 1500 mm; and d. be centrally located.
Why should we change it?
This clause lists various technologies for public announcements, however, there are certain persons with disabilities, deaf, or blind, as examples for whom these technologies are not suitable. For this reason, there must be an additional phrase to ensure that no person with a disability is left during an emergency without a communication system that works for them.
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13.4 Public announcements
Heading number portion
13.4
Item id
1769036124915_152
Heading id
s13.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.5 Audio systems (assistive listening systems) A permanent assistive audio system shall be provided where there is an exchange of emergency information, including in the following floor areas: a. in elevators; b. as part of emergency warning intercom systems; c. as part of all public announcement systems; and d. at security checkpoints.
What should we change it to?
Add a line starting with letter E 13.5 Audio systems (assistive listening systems) A permanent assistive audio system shall be provided where there is an exchange of emergency information, including in the following floor areas: a. in elevators; b. as part of emergency warning intercom systems; c. as part of all public announcement systems; and d. at security checkpoints. New text starts here E any assistive system that meets the conditions of this clause shall also be integrated with all communications systems that are necessary for persons with disabilities to receive the appropriate instructions during an emergency egress in a barrier free way. situation.
Why should we change it?
Because this clause is focused on audio systems, it is unsuitable for persons with disabilities, in particular, those who are deaf or heart of hearing, and a person with low or no vision might also need more instruction than can be had through an audio system. For this reason, whatever information comes through this audio system, must also be able to be transmitted to every person, including those with disabilities.
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13.5 Audio systems (assistive listening systems)
Heading number portion
13.5
Item id
1769036528464_42
Heading id
s13
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
14. Illumination and emergency power Illumination of accessible egress paths of travel and Areas of Refuge shall be: a. no less than 200 lux at floor level; b. be placed to avoid glare; and c. supplemented by emergency power. Separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems shall be supported by a backup generator. Emergency electrical power will ensure adequate emergency lighting for the use of elevators and key operating components or other systems during a power outage. A photoluminescence lighting system along the floor should be provided to indicate the accessible egress path of travel. Illumination in elevators shall be a minimum of 100 lux.
What should we change it to?
Add the words, muster, waiting, or shelter, after the word, refuge. 14. Illumination and emergency power Illumination of accessible egress paths of travel and Areas of Refuge Muster, waiting, or shelter shall be: a. no less than 200 lux at floor level; b. be placed to avoid glare; and c. supplemented by emergency power. Separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems shall be supported by a backup generator. Emergency electrical power will ensure adequate emergency lighting for the use of elevators and key operating components or other systems during a power outage. A photoluminescence lighting system along the floor should be provided to indicate the accessible egress path of travel. Illumination in elevators shall be a minimum of 100 lux.
Why should we change it?
Every area where persons might be gathered, waiting for help during an emergency egress must be appropriately lit. These include not only refuge, but also waiting, muster, or shelter. The word photoluminescence is somewhat technical, and should either be placed in the definitions, or perhaps the more familiar, glow in the dark phrase used.
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14. Illumination and emergency power
Heading number portion
14.
Item id
1769036777040_127
Heading id
s15.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.1 General The use of elevators for evacuation is one key strategy for evacuation of people who are unable to use stairs.
What should we change it to?
Enlarge the choice of using this type of elevator during an emergency By adding to the phrase after, using the stairs.. 15.1 General The use of elevators for evacuation is one key strategy for evacuation of people who are unable to use stairs. New text starts here and for evacuation of people who decide that this type of elevator is a safer or more rapid method of egress then stairs during an evacuation
Why should we change it?
The use of this type of elevator should not be limited to those that are unable to use stairs. If this type of elevator is the safest and most rapid evacuation route, then anyone should be allowed to use it. In particular, persons with some types of disabilities struggle with stairs, even in the best of times, especially those who are blind, deaf, blind, or have impaired vision, and so this type of elevator must be able to be used by them.
Heading text
15.1 General
Heading number portion
15.1
Item id
1769040013855_820
Heading id
s15.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3 Occupant evacuation elevators An Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs.
What should we change it to?
Enlarge the choice of using this type of elevator during an emergency By adding to the phrase after,. Use the stairs.. 15.3 Occupant evacuation elevators An Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. New text starts here and for evacuation of people who decide that this type of elevator is a safer or more rapid method of egress then stairs during an evacuation.
Why should we change it?
The use of this type of elevator should not be limited to those that are unable to use stairs. If this type of elevator is the safest and most rapid evacuation route, then anyone should be allowed to use it. In particular, persons with some types of disabilities struggle with stairs, even in the best of times, especially those who are blind, deaf, blind, or have impaired vision, and so this type of elevator must be able to be used by them.
Heading text
15.3 Occupant evacuation elevators
Heading number portion
15.3
Item id
1769040131527_848
Heading id
s15.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator ( OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs.
What should we change it to?
Enlarge the use of this type of elevator by adding to the phrase, people unable to use the stairs. 15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. New text starts here and can be used by people who decide that this type of elevator is a safer or more rapid method of egress then stairs
Why should we change it?
The use of this type of elevator should not be limited to those that are unable to use stairs. If this type of elevator is the safest and most rapid evacuation route, then anyone should be allowed to use it. In particular, persons with some types of disabilities struggle with stairs, even in the best of times, especially those who are blind, deaf, blind, or have impaired vision, and so this type of elevator must be able to be used by them.
Heading text
15.3.1 Information
Heading number portion
15.3.1
Item id
1769040253464_116
Heading id
s15.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication
What should we change it to?
Add a phrase after Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. 15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. New text starts here Any two way system or visual screen shall also have technologies, integrated, or nearby in a failsafe manner, such that persons with disabilities using Barrier free accessible and usable, technologies will receive all notifications and announcements, before, during, and after an emergency or evacuation.
Why should we change it?
Any system that delivers notifications to the occupants, residence or visitors in a building must deliver messages to everyone who is there, including persons with disabilities.
Heading text
15.3.1 Information
Heading number portion
15.3.1
Item id
1769040374910_561
Heading id
s15.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. Information on its use shall: a. be incorporated into the fire safety plan; b. be incorporated into the PEEPs, when appropriate; and c. be included in the posted fire safety evacuation plan. Occupants of a building shall be instructed in how to use and when to operate an OEE. There shall be signs posted on all floors adjacent to each elevator call station for OEEs.
What should we change it to?
Add a line at the end enhancing the ability to locate this type of elevator during an emergency. Just a sign is not sufficient. 15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. Information on its use shall: a. be incorporated into the fire safety plan; b. be incorporated into the PEEPs, when appropriate; and c. be included in the posted fire safety evacuation plan. Occupants of a building shall be instructed in how to use and when to operate an OEE. There shall be signs posted on all floors adjacent to each elevator call station for OEEs. New text starts here In addition to signs posted on every floor for this type of elevator, there shall be notification and announcement Barrier free, accessible, and usable, systems suitable for persons with disabilities, such as voice alerts, identification, flashing light, and tactile markings on the floor to announce this type of elevator.
Why should we change it?
As this type of elevator might be the safest and most rapid route of evacuation, it is essential that anybody be able to find them during the stress, noise, and perhaps reduced visibility of an emergency. For this reason, notification and announcement enhancements such as those listed must be installed.
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15.3.1 Information
Heading number portion
15.3.1
Item id
1769040446639_422
Heading id
s15.4.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.4.1 Space All elevators shall provide a clear floor area of 2,010 mm minimum in length and 610 mm minimum in width to accommodate a stretcher in the prone position and additional space for two persons.
What should we change it to?
Replace, additional space for two persons, with a clause indicating how this number is to be calculated. 15.4.1 Space All elevators shall provide a clear floor area of 2,010 mm minimum in length and 610 mm minimum in width to accommodate a stretcher in the prone position New text starts here and additional space for the number of persons that is appropriate for the number of occupants, residence, and visitors, as well as the number of elevators and floors.
Why should we change it?
From a risk management perspective, the elevator of this type might be the safest and most rapid way to evacuate the building, and so many people might decide to use it. This number must be calculated proportionate to the number of persons in the building , and other factors, so that the maximum number of people can be evacuated in a safe manner.
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15.4.1 Space
Heading number portion
15.4.1
Item id
1769040503320_398
Heading id
s15.4.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.4.3 Identification An elevator that is designed to accommodate a stretcher or OEE shall be clearly identified on every level the elevator serves.
What should we change it to?
Add a clause at the end, indicating that the elevator of this type must be identified in a way that works for persons with disabilities. 15.4.3 Identification An elevator that is designed to accommodate a stretcher or OEE shall be clearly identified on every level the elevator serves. New text starts here In addition to signs posted on every floor for this type of elevator, there shall be notification and announcement Barrier free, accessible, and usable systems suitable for persons with disabilities, such as voice alerts, identification, flashing light, and tactile markings on the floor.
Why should we change it?
As this type of elevator might be the safest and most rapid route of evacuation, it is essential that anybody be able to find them during the stress, noise, and perhaps Limited visibility of an emergency. For this reason, notification and announcement enhancements such as those listed must be installed.
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15.4.3 Identification
Heading number portion
15.4.3
Item id
1769040563854_329
Heading id
s15.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height of 1200 mm; be equipped with braille and raised characters on buttons located to the left of the operation button; and have a well-contrasted operation button.
What should we change it to?
Change clause E to a height that fits the general population. 15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height that matches the median height of occupants and residence;
Why should we change it?
From a standard perspective, it is understandable to choose a height of control surfaces that match the person whose reach is limited to a certain amount that might need these controls. From a risk management perspective, the choice of height must match the most persons that are able to use it. For this reason, the height of the control surface, must meet the needs of the person's in the facility on an average basis, not the person with the least Reach. In addition, for persons with disabilities, perhaps vision, impairment, neurodivergent, or less able to kneel, stretch, or bend to be able to enact these controls, the height must be appropriate for them.
Heading text
15.5 Elevator controls
Heading number portion
15.5
Item id
1769040624893_805
Heading id
s15.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height of 1200 mm; be equipped with braille and raised characters on buttons located to the left of the operation button; and have a well-contrasted operation button.
What should we change it to?
Add a line F, , indicating function appropriate for emergency use. 15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height of 1200 mm; be equipped with braille and raised characters on buttons located to the left of the operation button; and have a well-contrasted operation button. F. Any elevator of this type must have a Barrier free, accessible, and usable system that enables persons with disabilities to direct it to the floor that has the safest evacuation route.
Why should we change it?
During the stress of an emergency, it may be difficult for a person with a disability to know, or select the correct floor. For this reason, there must be an embedded system that can direct the occupant, resident, or visitor to the safest floor. for a safe evacuation route. For this reason, such a system must be embedded into the elevator, in fail safe a manner.
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15.5 Elevator controls
Heading number portion
15.5
Item id
1769042154938_103
Heading id
s16.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.1 Application All signage and way finding relating to emergency egress shall be accessible and shall include text, visual, tactile and Braille characters. There are different types of signage that relate to emergency egress for various purposes: a. regulatory signs, which include information, including safety and emergency signs; b. mandatory signs which denote an order requiring an action; and c. warning signs such as caution and danger signs denote a potential hazard and a definite hazard. Note: Red, blue or green LEDs shall be avoided on a black background as they are unreadable for most people with vision loss
What should we change it to?
The note at the end about red, green and blue lights should be harmonize with signage standards for persons with low or no vision. 16.1 Application All signage and way finding relating to emergency egress shall be accessible and shall include text, visual, tactile and Braille characters. There are different types of signage that relate to emergency egress for various purposes: a. regulatory signs, which include information, including safety and emergency signs; b. mandatory signs which denote an order requiring an action; and c. warning signs such as caution and danger signs denote a potential hazard and a definite hazard. Note. All signs shall Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, color, and contrast and standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
There is a standard that specifies font, size, font style, color, and contrast to ensure usability and legibility. This standard should be harmonized with the emergency egress standard.
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16.1 Application
Heading number portion
16.1
Item id
1769042265313_87
Heading id
s16.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.2 Directional signage The following signs shall be posted indicating the accessible egress route: a. accessible egress path of travel to an exit, an area of refuge and a horizontal separation, if it is used as an area of refuge; and b. accessible egress path of travel to an occupant evacuation elevator. Emergency egress signage shall be identified by directional signage indicating the accessible egress path of travel to the final exit.
What should we change it to?
Clarify the different lettered phrases, and add, areas of shelter, muster, and waiting. 16.2 Directional signage The following signs shall be posted indicating the accessible egress route to : a. an exit, B. an area of refuge, waiting, shelter, or muster C. a horizontal separation, if it is used as an area of refuge , shelter, waiting, or mustard ; b. an occupant evacuation elevator. Emergency egress signage shall be identified by directional signage indicating the accessible egress path of travel to the final exit.
Why should we change it?
The sections with letters are two tightly condensed, and other areas besides refuge, such as waiting, shelter, and muster need to be identified.
Heading text
16.2 Directional signage
Heading number portion
16.2
Item id
1769042321761_797
Heading id
s16.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.2 Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request.
What should we change it to?
Change and merge c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request. Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; C. All signs shall Conform and harmonize two standards for usability and legibility for font style, size, color, and contrast as well as standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
All signage should be installed in formats that are suitable for persons with disabilities. There is a standard that describes font style, size, color, and contrast, and this must be harmonized with the emergency egress standard.
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16.2 Directional signage
Heading number portion
16.2
Item id
1769043027916_157
Heading id
s16.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.2 Directional sign16.2 Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request. age
What should we change it to?
Add some lettered clauses to ensure these signs are are usable and legible at all times, including power outages Starting with E. in this standard. 16.2 Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request. E. be self illuminated, externally illuminated, or glow in the dark. Any power for illumination shall be from emergency backup generators. F. every directional sign shall also have identification Marker on it that shows the location of the sign, so that emergency personnel can easily locate a person who calls in needing assistance and references this identification marker. The identification marker shall also be in tactile and braille. G. directional signs shall be surrounded by tactile floor surface, large enough for a person with low or no vision to locate it, and small enough not to interfere with evacuation procedures. H. directional markers shall emit a sound loud enough for a person with a disability to locate it, but not loud enough to interfere with evacuation procedures.
Why should we change it?
Directional markers are the lifeline to safety, and so they should be easily found, by any person, and have enough information so that any person will know which direction to go in, and enable emergency personnel to locate a person needing assistance.
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16.2 Directional signage
Heading number portion
16.2
Item id
1769043141218_567
Heading id
s16.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
The entire clause
What should we change it to?
Shorten the list.
Why should we change it?
It feels like a map with so many items would be more confusing than informative.
Heading text
16.3 Emergency evacuation map
Heading number portion
16.3
Item id
1769043202675_303
Heading id
s16.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
be located in central locations of the building; incorporate a font size of no less than 14 point; o. be color contrasted; p. be available in alternate formats; q. when possible, avoid the use of red and green; and r. use official pictograms.
What should we change it to?
Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, color, and contrast and standards for alternate formats. For those persons with disabilities for whom a map is not suitable, list and have a contact person to explain and demonstrate, and practice, the necessary information that will lead to a successful emergency egress. . Use only approved ISO pictograms. Have a legend that explains in an accessible format what each pictogram is.
Why should we change it?
There are three parts to this suggestion. 1. Font style, size, color, and contrast must conformed and harmonize with the approved standard. 2. For those for whom maps are not accessible, an alternate person to explain must be available. 3. Pictograms can be mysterious, so only approved ones should be used, and even though they are approved, must be explained in a legend.
Heading text
16.3 Emergency evacuation map
Heading number portion
16.3
Item id
1769043278403_545
Heading id
s16.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.4 Tactile maps Tactile maps of the posted emergency evacuation map should be provided at the building entrance. Where provided, tactile maps shall: a. be angled between 20° minimum and 30° maximum from the horizontal;b. c. d. have the bottom edge 900 mm minimum above the finished floor surface; E. have the key located at the bottom of the map and left justified; and F. have a recessed braille locator provided on the left-hand side to assist in locating the legend.
What should we change it to?
Add a clause G , ensuring that user feedback is incorporated into each revision, and continue this process until users are satisfied. G in the spirit of continuous improvement, as soon as possible, after the opening of the facility, survey the users of this tactile map on a regular basis and revise the map, consistent with suggestions, until users and the facility accessibility panel are satisfied..
Why should we change it?
A tactile map design must conform to a delicate balance between just the right amount of information, properly displayed, and too much information which could overload the user. Only the user can decide on this, and so it is necessary to Survey the user experience, and continuously changed the map until users are satisfied.
Heading text
16.4 Tactile maps
Heading number portion
16.4
Item id
1769043332826_533
Heading id
s16.5.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.5.1 Enclosed stairway signage An enclosed stairway shall have a sign identifying the storey in raised characters and braille with a high luminance contrast to its background at each landing that provides access to a floor area.
What should we change it to?
Add additional items to facilitate emergency egress. 16.5.1 Enclosed stairway signage A. An enclosed stairway shall have a sign identifying the storey in raised characters and braille with a high luminance contrast to its background at each landing that provides access to a floor area. New text starts here The sign shall Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, colour, and contrast and standards for alternate formats. C. On those floors where there is exit, refuge, shelter, or waiting areas, this shall be marked on the door in formats that conform with the standard for accessibility. D. each sign shall have an identification marker in an accessible format that locates where the door is in a way that emergency personnel with this information could easily locate a person.
Why should we change it?
This suggestion covers the following reasons. 1. All signage must conform to an harmonize with the standards for accessibility, usability, and legibility. 2. In order to ensure a safe evacuation, the door must be marked with information about that particular floor as to whether it has a exit, refuge , muster or shelter area on it. 3. In large buildings, their are many doors, many floors, and many stairwells. If a person needs to be rescued from that particular door area, they must be able to locate and identify it in a unique way when communicating with emergency personnel.
Heading text
16.5.1 Enclosed stairway signage
Heading number portion
16.5.1
Item id
1769043381780_876
Heading id
s16.5.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.5.2 Exit door signage An accessible exit door discharging to the exterior of a building or another building shall: a. have a sign with raised characters and braille; b. if discharging directly to the exterior, lead to an accessible exterior path of travel and the exterior muster point; and c. if discharging to another building, lead to a path of travel that complies with this Standard.
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence after clause, A clarifying the standards to be met 16.5.2 Exit door signage An accessible exit door discharging to the exterior of a building or another building shall: a. have a sign with raised characters and braille; New text starts here the sign shall Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, colour, and contrast and standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
All signage must conform and harmonize with relevant standards .
Heading text
16.5.2 Exit door signage
Heading number portion
16.5.2
Submission ID
64585
Submitted by
VWilliams
Submitted on
Wed, 01/21/2026 - 20:16
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64585's submission

CAN-ASC-2.2 – Emergency Egress (Exit)
Feedback items
Item id
1769024844989_514
Heading id
s6.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
As people with disabilities are increasingly demanding a say in their self-determination, they are no longer willing to wait for assistance, while others are evacuating a building. They wish to be provided with the same level of safety.
What should we change it to?
As people with disabilities are entitled to the same rights as people without those disabilities, they should not have to wait for assistance, while others are evacuating a building. They are entitled to the same level of safety as people without disabilities.
Why should we change it?
By itself, a demand or request without entitlement isn’t enough to set these standards. Recognizing entitlement is a straightforward and clear reason for them.
Heading text
6.2 Overview
Heading number portion
6.2
Item id
1769025154058_839
Heading id
s7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The requirements of this Standard shall apply to all of the following:Split up letter B into individual sections for clarity. a. b. the design, construction and occupancy of all new buildings; the alteration, major renovation (as defined by the NBC), reconstruction, relocation and occupancy of all existing buildings, including leased facilities; c. both site-built and factory-constructed buildings; and d. buildings with single stairwells.
What should we change it to?
Add the words, or rented, after the word, leased. a. b. the design, construction and occupancy of all new buildings; C. the alteration, major renovation (as defined by the NBC), . reconstruction, D. relocation and F. occupancy of all existing buildings, including leased and rented facilities; G. both site-built and factory-constructed buildings; and H. buildings with single stairwells.
Why should we change it?
It is possible for a building to be rented, and so this option must be part of this standard. The possibilities of reconstruction, relocation, and occupancy should not be merged into a single clause, as they are distinctly different.
Heading text
7.1 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.1
Item id
1769025250809_506
Heading id
s7.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The design requirements of this Standard apply to the design of new construction and major renovations, as defined by the NBC, for the federally regulated sector. This includes all major occupancy types, including multi-unit residential buildings and leased facilities. This edition of the standard does not address individual dwelling units.
What should we change it to?
Merge this clause with 7.1, or at least make them say the very same thing.
Why should we change it?
This would make the standard more focused, and consistent.
Heading text
7.3 Applications
Heading number portion
7.3
Item id
1769025407640_24
Heading id
s7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a section, 7.1.1. In section 10, there is a long list of possible emergencies. In the same way, we suggest that there should be a list of possible buildings, to ensure conformance with the standard.
What should we change it to?
Add this section :7.1.1 other inclusions This scope includes but are not limited too. Shopping centers Multi use buildings which have retail at the ground level, parking at levels 2, 3 or four, businesses at levels, 5, 6 and seven, and residential units above, or any combination. Sports stadiums Schools Parking garages Transit terminal, such as airports Hospitals and medical centers Venues for large gatherings, such as concert halls Structures that are close to flammable materials, such as a forest, or fuel storage. Factories Warehouses
Why should we change it?
Each of these building types, and there are probably others, require special attention to exit and egress methods for persons with disabilities in the case of an emergency.
Heading text
7.1 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.1
Item id
1769025600930_912
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Accessible egress path of travel — The accessible route that is used as the egress route from anywhere in the building to the accessible muster Terminology point. Accessible path of travel — The accessible route within the interior or exterior environment that is without barriers — Designated area within a building which has
What should we change it to?
Merge these two definitions, or create a note explaining the differences. Also 1. in the first definition, the word, terminology, does not seem to be correct. 2. The definition calls up the muster point. This should be expanded to, refuge, shelter, and waiting.
Why should we change it?
It is not clear what the difference is between these two terms
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025683138_234
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition for Individual dwelling units
What should we change it to?
Individual dwelling units are structures, such as a cottage, bungalow, semi detached, or town houses, residential only, each housing several people If the structure is a cottage, although it might be two or three stories, as long as it has related persons in it, this standard does not apply to it. If the structure is used largely as rental units for unrelated persons, such as a boarding house, or dormitory, then they are covered by this standard. If the structure is multistory, such as a duplex, triplex, or quadruplex, then it is covered by this standard as it is multi story. If a cottage or bungalow has been converted to a non-residential use, then it is covered by this standard.
Why should we change it?
The definition of individual dwelling unit needs clarification.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025732490_167
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition
What should we change it to?
Facility accessibility panel A panel of 3 to 7 persons, selected by the facility, emergency manager in cooperation and coordination with all persons with disabilities in the facility. Each person in this panel shall have a term of one year, and the panel will be re-selected every year by the facility, emergency manager in coordination and cooperation with all persons with disabilities in the facility
Why should we change it?
The mandate of accessibility standards Canada calls for, nothing about us, without us. In order to do this, the emergency management of a facility must have the input of persons with disabilities, and so an appropriate body must be formed and have the appropriate authority.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025810330_64
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The definitions for, accessible, and, barrier free, each list a few specific disabilities. Given that these are listed in more detail in The definition of disability, there should either be a cross reference, or just the use of the word disability, and remove the three or four descriptive words.
What should we change it to?
In the definitions of accessible, and, barrier free, remove the three or four words that describe some disabilities.
Why should we change it?
This will add clarity to the definition, and harmonize the definitions with each other.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025870061_444
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition
What should we change it to?
What we should change it to. Facility emergency manager This person shall be appointed by the building owner, or should there be shared ownership, such as a condominium or cooperative, by the governing body, such as the board of directors They will have the mandate to plan for, execute, improve, and do continuous improvement on every aspect of emergencies, including PEEP and risk assessment and mitigation. This would include selecting, training, and ensuring availability of buddies and floor wardens.
Why should we change it?
There are several places in this standard, which include the selection of buddies, training, inspections, and ongoing operations, which call upon a property owner or building Manager. There are possibilities that neither of these two positions exist, have the appropriate authority, or training to be involved in such an important manner as the management of emergencies. Wherever the words, building manager or property owner are in this standard, the facilities emergency manager position is to be understood or, for consistency and harmonization, use only the words, emergency facility manager.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769025924562_202
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a definition
What should we change it to?
The phrase, fire compartment, is used once or twice in this standard, but not defined. I do not have the technical expertise to define it, but either do this, or change it to a more familiar term.
Why should we change it?
This is an important term, and so to be consistent and harmonized, it should be defined or replaced.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769026531769_197
Heading id
s9
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
10. Emergency egress for people with disabilities The National Fire Code (NFC) and the Provincial Fire Codes require that all buildings have a fire safety plan that includes information on emergency egress for all occupants, including people with disabilities. The ability of a person with a disability to safely evacuate a building is dependent upon the appropriate design of the building and the development and implementation of emergency procedures and practices that accommodate all building occupants.
What should we change it to?
Split up this section for clarity. Note. Some section renumbering might be necessary. 10. Emergency egress , training, and inspection 10.1 inspection As the NFC) and the Provincial Fire Codes require that all buildings have a fire safety plan that includes information on emergency and egress for all occupants, including people with disabilities. The ability of a person with a disability to safely evacuate a building is dependent upon the appropriate design of the building and the development and implementation of emergency procedures and practices that accommodate all building occupants. A. the facility, emergency manager, with the facility, accessibility panel, shall ensure that all personal emergency evacuation plans, conform with the NFB and provincial codes B. whenever an inspector from a fire department or other building code inspector does and inspection, they shall ensure that all Communication systems, egress routes, mustard, points, shelters, refuge and other structures that enable a person with a disability to evacuate safely or other items included in this Standard are in place and operate correctly. C. The facility accessibility panel Will participate in all inspections. .. This inspection shall take place no less than every 12 months, and if there are more than 200 occupants, twice per year. D. any part of the inspection that is shown as not in place or not operating correctly, either by the building code inspector, or fire department inspector, or by the facility accessibility panel , shall be treated by the fire department inspector or building code inspector with the same seriousness as a violation of their code , with the same due process. All documentation and due process concerning violations shall be copied to the facility accessibility panel. 10.2 Training A. a training program on the subject of this standard shall be developed by accessibility standards Canada within one year of the final standard being approved. B. The training program shall be mandatory for the facility, accessibility panel, facility, emergency manager, , emergency coordinator, buddies,officials and inspectors to attend this course as part of their orientation and on boarding, and have a refresher whenever a major part of the standard is changed. C. should a particular building have a violation found by the fire department inspector or building "inspector, then a training memorandum will be sent out to all the above concerned, persons with procedures to assure the violation does not occur again.
Why should we change it?
In order for a standard to be effective, it is vital that everyone concerned, knows what that standard is, and so a training program is necessary to ensure an even spread of knowledge. In addition, enforcement of a standard is necessary, otherwise, there are possibilities that it will not be used, and this might lead to tragic consequences.
Heading text
10. Emergency egress for people with disabilities
Heading number portion
10.
Item id
1769029239414_842
Heading id
s10
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
I feel this section is too long, and should be split up into sections 12, 13, etc., and the subsequent sections re-numbered What we should change it to. The sections would include.
What should we change it to?
Planning from the fire department Roles and responsibilities Personal emergency evacuation plan Before during and after an emergency And others.
Why should we change it?
These topics are too important to be smershed into one section. In addition, other standards, I have worked on have separate sections for roles and responsibilities, so then this standard would be harmonized with other standards What kind of suggestion are you making? General Section Number
Heading text
11. Practices and procedures
Heading number portion
11.
Item id
1769029463870_129
Heading id
heading-39
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The role of the emergency wardens Emergency wardens are individuals who are responsible for the safety of the people in their building or on their designated floors. The emergency wardens shall do the following:
What should we change it to?
Use the role of the facility, emergency manager, instead of floor warden.The role of the emergency wardens Emergency wardens are individuals who are responsible for the safety of the people in their building or on their designated floors.They work under the authority of the facility, emergency manager. In some cases, the facility emergency manager might also be the emergency warden. New text ends here The emergency wardens shall do the following:
Why should we change it?
In order to have consistency across the standard for roles and responsibilities, as well as authority, there must be harmonization between the terms used for the same function, but with different names. The names that are to be harmonized are. Facility emergency manager Building owner Property Manager Emergency warden or floor or fire warden Health and safety officer
Heading text
11.2.1.1 The role of the emergency wardens
Heading number portion
11.2.1.1
Item id
1769029589968_169
Heading id
heading-41
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The role of the person with a disability Some information on emergency egress issues that relate to individuals with various disabilities is provided in Annex A (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/18-annex-emergency-egress-issues-persons- disabilities). A person with a disability shall: a. develop a PEEP in conjunction with the emergency warden and buddies; b. ensure that emergency wardens and buddies know and understand their personal situation and how to best assist; c. describe their preferences as to lifting or transferring; d. describe any areas of concern such as loud noises, the use of assistive devices, areas of pain, etc.; e. know the location of the accessible egress routes and the areas of refuge; f. know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable; and g. be aware of the location of the muster points.
What should we change it to?
Add the following at the letter H. H. Be available for nomination to the facility, accessibility panel, and if chosen, ensure that all standards are met I. know who are the members of the facility, accessibility panel and facility, emergency manager and report to them any concerns about emergency egress, procedures, or conformity to standards J. As part of on boarding and orientation , with the appointed buddy, ensure you know the paths of egress, refuge, muster, shelter, points, and method of communication, and Test, the method of communication. K. if you are a visitor, ensure the facility emergency manager is aware that you are in the facility, has a copy of your PEEP, and with a buddy, review the appropriate emergency egress procedures
Why should we change it?
The more that a person with a disability can participate and have knowledge of the emergency egress procedures, the more likely it is that they will be able to safely. Exit the facility in the case of an emergency.
Heading text
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability
Heading number portion
11.2.1.3
Item id
1769029701838_12
Heading id
heading-42
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The role of the buddy The buddy shall do the following: a. Assist in notifying the person with a disability of an emergency. b. Know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable. c. Participate in the development of the PEEP. d. Be aware of the location of the accessible egress route and area of refuge. e. Know the appropriate way to communicate with and assist the person with a disability and discuss their PEEP. f. Be aware of the locations of the person with a disability that they are going to accompany. g. Be aware of the location of the muster points. h. Participate in fire drills with the person with the disability.
What should we change it to?
Add the following starting with letter I . I. as part of on boarding and orientation, practice the egress roots, muster, shelter, and refuse points, and test the method of communication with the person with a disability. J. If there are any parts of the standard that are not met , communicate immediately with the facility, emergency manager and the facility accessibility panel. K. If you are assigned to a visitor, ensure that you know, the PEEP, and, if applicable, practice the egress method, shelter, muster, and refuse points, and test the method of communication.
Why should we change it?
Practice makes perfect, and the steps necessary for a person with a disability to exit safely are more likely to succeed if a practice session has been done, and remediation for those concerns that are still evident.
Heading text
11.2.1.4 The role of the buddy
Heading number portion
11.2.1.4
Item id
1769029826624_825
Heading id
s11.4.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Evaluation and improvement After an emergency situation has taken place, an in-depth review shall be conducted on the effectiveness of the procedures that were developed and implemented. All drills and emergencies shall be documented to facilitate improvement. Potential improvements should be discussed frequently and openly. This discussion shall: a. be completed within 2 weeks of the emergency egress in a written format and an alternative format that is
What should we change it to?
After the words, Potential improvements should be discussed frequently and openly, Add another sentence. 11.4.3 Post-emergency: Evaluation and improvement After an emergency situation has taken place, an in-depth review shall be conducted on the effectiveness of the procedures that were developed and implemented. All drills and emergencies shall be documented to facilitate improvement. Potential improvements should be discussed frequently and openly. If the in-depth review shows areas of concern that are life-threatening, these should be reported to the fire department inspector, or building code inspector, and be treated as serious violations with the due process of the inspection agency. These serious violations shall be reported to the facility, emergency manager and the facility accessibility panel.
Why should we change it?
Any life-threatening concern should be treated with the appropriate seriousness of the situation, and the authorities with the mandate to remedy the situation and enforce any improvements must be part of the process.
Heading text
11.4.3 Post-emergency: Evaluation and improvement
Heading number portion
11.4.3
Item id
1769030340629_822
Heading id
heading-41
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability .
What should we change it to?
Change the title of the section by enlarging it to those who need assistance 11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability or who requires assistance that impacts emergency egress.
Why should we change it?
The title of this section should conform with the definition of a person who must complete a PEEP. and highlight that there are other persons than those with disabilities, such as seniors, or persons with children, that might also need assistance.
Heading text
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability
Heading number portion
11.2.1.3
Item id
1769030439701_839
Heading id
s11.3.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
11.3.2 Employee Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
What should we change it to?
Change the title to include all those who are not visitors 11.3.2 occupant, residence, and full and part time Employee Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
Why should we change it?
Parts of this draft standard focus on office buildings and office employees, but there are many other kinds of buildings that have other kinds of occupants. In order to be inclusive, there must be a more functional definition so that , all those who are present a major part of time must be part of this section. For information, here is the definition of visitor. occupants of a building who are not present on a regular, known and consistent basis. This could include patrons, employees in a hybrid or co-working workplace who work in an office space on an irregular basis, or employees in activity-based workplaces. This wording of employee should be changed wherever it occurs.
Heading text
11.3.2 Employee Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans
Heading number portion
11.3.2
Item id
1769030535061_571
Heading id
heading-41
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability Some information on emergency egress issues that relate to individuals with various disabilities is provided in Annex A (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/18-annex-emergency-egress-issues-persons- disabilities). A person with a disability shall: a. develop a PEEP in conjunction with the emergency warden and buddies; b. ensure that emergency wardens and buddies know and understand their personal situation and how to best assist; c. describe their preferences as to lifting or transferring; d. describe any areas of concern such as loud noises, the use of assistive devices, areas of pain, etc.; e. know the location of the accessible egress routes and the areas of refuge;f. know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable; and g. be aware of the location of the muster points.
What should we change it to?
Add a clause, H, at the end about risk mitigation 11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability Some information on emergency egress issues that relate to individuals with various disabilities is provided in Annex A (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/18-annex-emergency-egress-issues-persons- disabilities). A person with a disability shall: a. develop a PEEP in conjunction with the emergency warden and buddies; b. ensure that emergency wardens and buddies know and understand their personal situation and how to best assist; c. describe their preferences as to lifting or transferring; d. describe any areas of concern such as loud noises, the use of assistive devices, areas of pain, etc.; e. know the location of the accessible egress routes and the areas of refuge;f. know how to use an evacuation device, if applicable; and g. be aware of the location of the muster points. New text starts here H. Discuss the risk profile of the facility with the facility, emergency manager, which may include age of the building, combustible materials in the building, sprinklers or not, which building codes are older, grandfathered, and not up-to-date, code violations, received from the fire department or other authorities, proximity to other dangers, and anything else the facility manager may be aware of. If appropriate, discuss reducing the risk by changing the location of the work, occupation, or residence , by increasing the proximity to refuge, shelter, waiting, exit doors, elevators, stairs, egress pads, or selecting other facilities.
Why should we change it?
There might be a particular combination of risks in a facility, as well as a combination of difficulties in emergency egress in a particular person, that would point to other kinds of risk, mitigation than buddies or evacuation plans. one way to do this is to change the location of the person with a disability physical location to one more favorable to egress during an emergency situation.
Heading text
11.2.1.3 The role of the person with a disability
Heading number portion
11.2.1.3
Item id
1769030692215_818
Heading id
s12.1.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Buildings shall be provided with areas of refuge on levels above and below the level served by an immediate accessible exit and egress path of travel leading directly outside
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence describing what happens if it is a one story building, such as a factory, warehouse, or logistics hub. Also, expand refuge area, too, muster , shelter, or waiting areas. 12.1.1 Application Buildings shall be provided with areas of refuge, muster, shelter, and waiting areas on levels above and below the level served by an immediate accessible exit and egress path of travel leading directly outside. In the case of one story buildings, the areas of refuge, muster, shelter, and waiting shall be located in such a way that they are safe from the situation of the emergency, and close to the path of egress.
Why should we change it?
In general, this standard is written from the perspective of multi story, office buildings, however, there a many kinds of buildings, including residences, one story, industrial buildings, such as factories, warehouses, and logistic hubs. The standard must have the appropriate language to accommodate these situations.
Heading text
12.1.1 Application
Heading number portion
12.1.1
Item id
1769030780470_230
Heading id
heading-61
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
The number of areas of refuge on each storey shall be provided based on half the number of exits required by the applicable building code serving that storey. Note: Decimal numbers should be rounded up to the nearest whole number. Other considerations: a. the building use; and b. the anticipated number of visitors.
What should we change it to?
Add conditions at the end, indicating that the number of persons occupying or employed in the building shall be part of the consideration of number of refuge areas. 12.1.1.1 Number of areas of refuge The number of areas of refuge on each storey shall be provided based on half the number of exits required by the applicable building code serving that storey. Note: Decimal numbers should be rounded up to the nearest whole number. Other considerations: a. the building use; and b. the anticipated number of visitors. New text starts here C. Number of persons occupying or employed in the facility D. the proportion of staff available to eat in evacuation, such as buddies, compared to the number of persons employed in or occupying the building.
Why should we change it?
. One would imagine that the building code would include clauses about a, and B, at the end of this clause, and perhaps also the addition we are making, about number of occupants and amount of assistance available. However, given that conditions, a, and B, were included, this would indicate that these conditions are not in the building code, and so we feel that other conditions must be added. Condition D is very important in the case of shopping centers, sports stadiums, factories with a high density of employees, condominiums, where the number of staff or buddies are low compared to the actual number of people in the facility. In these cases, Moore, areas of refuge must be available to make up for the small amount of assistance available. Note. The same analysis should be applied to muster, shelter, waiting, or any other areas where persons might congregate in the event of an emergency.
Heading text
12.1.1.1 Number of areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.1.1
Item id
1769030908022_650
Heading id
s12.1.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Note: An example of a fire compartment in this Clause includes an elevator lobby.
What should we change it to?
Add specifications after the words,includes an elevator lobby Note: An example of a fire compartment in this Clause includes an elevator lobby, New text starts here only if the elevator lobby is protected from the emergency situation, such as fire, and compliant with clause 12.1.3 It will be marked in the same way as refuge area in a prominent way.
Why should we change it?
A description of an elevator lobby, as a place of refuge is too vague, and may result in persons with disabilities gathering in front of an elevator door, but not be protected from the emergency situation. Clarification must be given to this note so that if this particular space is a place of refuge, then it must comply with the standards for this type of space. Note. The words, fire compartment, are used in this note, and have not been previously used or defined.
Heading text
12.1.2 Location of the areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.2
Item id
1769031001934_624
Heading id
s12.1.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.3 General Areas of refuge shall be: a. located on an accessible route; b. smoke-protected; c. illuminated at a minimum of 200 lux; and d. provided with an evacuation device nearby.
What should we change it to?
Add other conditions to make it more survivable as a place of refuge starting with letter E. 12.1.3 General Areas of refuge shall be: a. located on an accessible route; b. smoke-protected; c. illuminated at a minimum of 200 lux; and d. provided with an evacuation device nearby New text starts here E. Full range of communication systems backed up by fire resistant and emergency power f. have separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems supported by a backup generator.
Why should we change it?
A place of refuge is a place where one could survive a situation. Emergency for enough time until assistance is available to leave the building. This could easily be 10, 15, or 20 minutes, and so there must be enough protection, plus reliable communications, to enable survival.
Heading text
12.1.3 General
Heading number portion
12.1.3
Item id
1769031080232_908
Heading id
s12.1.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge A door serving an immediate area of refuge shall: a. b. be leakage-rated complying with NFPA 105; have a clear width complying with CSA/ASC B651; c. be equipped with a power door operator capable of being activated in the event of a loss of power via emergency power or alternative power
What should we change it to?
In C Add a phrase after the words, alternate power so that a door can be manually operated. 12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge A door serving an immediate area of refuge shall: a. b. be leakage-rated complying with NFPA 105; have a clear width complying with CSA/ASC B651; c. be equipped with a power door operator capable of being activated in the event of a loss of power via emergency power or alternative power New text starts here or manually.
Why should we change it?
Many emergency situations result in loss of power, either because of the emergency itself, or power being cut off from the entire facility as a measure of caution. For these reasons, it is necessary to have the door being operated manually, so that no one is trapped inside.
Heading text
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.4
Item id
1769031174110_477
Heading id
s12.1.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge The interior of an area of refuge shall: a. provide a minimum of two waiting spaces to accommodate a clear unobstructed floor space not less than 900 mm by 1500 mm for each space; b. be served by a 2100 mm turning radius; c. be located clear of any adjacent door swing; d. be illuminated, minimum 200 lux; e. be connected to the backup power; and f. be free of protrusions.
What should we change it to?
Add letter G , indicating that the size of this area should be calculated according to the appropriate code or the number of people that might use it. 12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge The interior of an area of refuge shall: a. provide a minimum of two waiting spaces to accommodate a clear unobstructed floor space not less than 900 mm by 1500 mm for each space; b. be served by a 2100 mm turning radius; c. be located clear of any adjacent door swing; d. be illuminated, minimum 200 lux; e. be connected to the backup power; and f. be free of protrusions. New text starts here G. have a size calculated according to the appropriate fire or building code or number of people who might use it.
Why should we change it?
This clause is for the minimum size of a refuge area, and a quick reading of it might indicate that a space for two persons is adequate. It is necessary to indicate that the space might be larger than for two persons, and that the appropriate code is followed
Heading text
12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.5
Item id
1769031327368_584
Heading id
s12.1.6
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.6 Clear waiting space The clear waiting space shall: a. be connected to the accessible path of travel; b. be recessed away from the common path of travel; c. be positioned to avoid someone being directly in front of or behind another individual; d. be clearly delineated along the floor; e. not be located directly facing the stairs or behind the exit door; and f. have separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems supported by a backup generator.
What should we change it to?
Add letter G and H G. be safe and used in those cases where the person's exiting the facility need to pause , for any reason, between their original spot, for a short period of time on their path to egress the emergency situation. H. Have complete access to all communication, facilities, backed up by emergency power
Why should we change it?
Specifications must be added to the waiting area to ensure they are survivable while they are being used
Heading text
12.1.6 Clear waiting space
Heading number portion
12.1.6
Item id
1769033950214_342
Heading id
s12.1.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.8 Signage An area of refuge shall have an identification sign on the door stating the type of area with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door or appropriate place,, complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1
What should we change it to?
Harmonize this signage standard to all areas, not just refuge. Add requirements that sign must have location information. 12.1.8 Signage An area of refuge, shelter, muster point, or waiting area shall have an identification sign on the door or appropriate place stating the AREA with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door, or appropriate place complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1 New text starts here All of these signs will have information on them, which gives the location in a way that emergency personnel can easily locate them. All signage will Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, color, and contrast and standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
The standard for signage should be harmonized throughout all areas where persons might congregate while waiting for evacuation. In a large facility, and during an emergency, it is easy to lose track of location. For this reason, every refuge room shelter, waiting area, muster point , , and waiting area, shall have signage that indicates the location in a way that enables emergency personnel to easily know the location of the person in the shelter, refuge, muster, or waiting area.
Heading text
12.1.8 Signage
Heading number portion
12.1.8
Item id
1769034003246_665
Heading id
s12.1.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
An area of refuge shall have an identification sign on the door stating AREA OF REFUGE with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door, complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1 Directional signage Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage to the area of refuge shall be provided at decision points throughout the building
What should we change it to?
Add a line after the description of directional signage. 12.1.8 Signage An area of refuge shall have an identification sign on the door stating AREA OF REFUGE with the International Pictogram of Access. An additional sign shall be posted on the side of the door, complying with CSA/ASC B651.12.1.8.1 Every Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage to the area of refuge shall be provided at decision points throughout the building. New text starts here directional sign at every decision point shall have an additional identification that identifies the location of the decision point in a way that makes it easy for emergency personnel to know the location of whoever is referencing that particular decision point. Each directional sign shall be self luminous. This location identification shall also be in braille and large print
Why should we change it?
In a large facility, and during an emergency, it is easy to lose track of location. For this reason, every directional sign at every decision point , shall have marking that indicates the location in a way that enables emergency personnel to easily know the location of the person in at the directional sign or decision point..
Heading text
12.1.8 Signage
Heading number portion
12.1.8
Item id
1769034112646_858
Heading id
s12.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
Doors and power doors are listed in several sections of the standard, but there seems to be inconsistencies in what happens during an emergency. Some sections called for power back up, some call for connection to emergency back up or generator,. . None handle the possibility of a complete power or power back up failure.
What should we change it to?
The standard should be made consistent, especially being able to open the door manually, when all else fails.
Why should we change it?
It is important for a standard to be consistent, and the description in this draft standard around door operation in a emergency seem to be less than consistent. 5. What kind of suggestion are you making?
Heading text
12.2.1 Power door operators on horizontal exit doors
Heading number portion
12.2.1
Item id
1769034218262_320
Heading id
s12.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.3.1 Interior egress path of travel The interior egress path of travel shall comply with CSA/ASC-B651. Static escalators, stair lifts and moving walks shall not be permitted as part of the interior egress path of travel. All elements in the interior egress path of travel shall be accessible, including: a. to and from all floor areas of a building; and b. to and from all interior doors to exterior exit doors. In addition, the interior egress path of travel shall: a. where there is a rise over 13 mm, have a slope of no steeper than 1:25. See Ramps 12.7; b. be free of protrusions to a height of 2100 mm; c. be illuminated to a minimum level of 200 lux; andd. be free of overly patterned carpeting.
What should we change it to?
Add extra conditions starting with D. 12.3.1 Interior egress path of travel The interior egress path of travel shall comply with CSA/ASC-B651. Static escalators, stair lifts and moving walks shall not be permitted as part of the interior egress path of travel. All elements in the interior egress path of travel shall be accessible, including: a. to and from all floor areas of a building; and b. to and from all interior doors to exterior exit doors. In addition, the interior egress path of travel shall: a. where there is a rise over 13 mm, have a slope of no steeper than 1:25. See Ramps 12.7; b. be free of protrusions to a height of 2100 mm; c. be illuminated to a minimum level of 200 lux; andd. be free of overly patterned carpeting. New text starts here D. Have lighting connected to emergency back up power, which will also light up directional signs at every decision point. E. Where possible, egress paths will have illuminated, or self luminous directional markings on the floor. F. Signage identifying the egress pads shall be identified on the emergency fire safety map posted throughout the building.
Why should we change it?
In an emergency, often power is disrupted, or disconnected by emergency personnel. In such a case, the interior of the building can become quite dark, and so it is necessary to have emergency back up power on all egress paths as well as directional signs.
Heading text
12.3.1 Interior egress path of travel
Heading number portion
12.3.1
Item id
1769034303933_38
Heading id
s12.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.4 Muster points All buildings shall have muster points served by an accessible exterior egress path of travel. The muster point shall be a minimum of 3000 mm x 3000 mm. Signage with the muster point symbol shall be provided between 1600 mm and 2500 mm above the ground surface. Signage identifying the muster points shall be identified on the emergency fire safety map posted throughout the building. Benches or seating provided for the muster point shall comply with CSA/ASC B651. The muster point shall: a. be provided with a rest area equipped with a bench or seating alternative; b. have a pavement marking not less than 1 m by 1 m identifying the international symbol of muster points, where located on a hard surface; c. be illuminated; and d. be recessed away from and served by an exterior egress path of travel complying with Clause 12.3.2.
What should we change it to?
Add conditions starting with letter E. , 12.4 Muster points All buildings shall have muster points served by an accessible exterior egress path of travel. The muster point shall be a minimum of 3000 mm x 3000 mm. Signage with the muster point symbol shall be provided between 1600 mm and 2500 mm above the ground surface. Signage identifying the muster points shall be identified on the emergency fire safety map posted throughout the building. Benches or seating provided for the muster point shall comply with CSA/ASC B651. The muster point shall: a. be provided with a rest area equipped with a bench or seating alternative; b. have a pavement marking not less than 1 m by 1 m identifying the international symbol of muster points, where located on a hard surface; c. be illuminated; and d. be recessed away from and served by an exterior egress path of travel complying with Clause 12.3.2. New text starts here E. have a size that is calculated with information about the use of the building, the size of the building, number of occupants or visitors, distance from the egress door, factors that might make the speed to get out of the building important, availability and numbers of of buddies or staff members to aid in persons with disabilities. F. be connected with all communication facilities, which will be backed up by battery or emergency generators. H. Be connected to emergency ventilation systems
Why should we change it?
The purpose of a muster point is to allow accumulation and survival of persons until assistance arrives. The size of this muster point is dependent on many factors , and these must be part of the standard.
Heading text
12.4 Muster points
Heading number portion
12.4
Item id
1769034382837_938
Heading id
s12.6.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.6.1 Tactile information on stair and ramp handrails Stair and ramp handrails shall have raised characters with braille permanently fixed on the underside of the horizontal section, at the beginning and at the end of every handrail on stairs indicating: a. the floor number; b. the direction of egress; and c. the exit floor shall be indicated by a tactile star.
What should we change it to?
Add a phrase, D, that the signage on the underside should also indicate the location of the stairwell. 12.6.1 Tactile information on stair and ramp handrails Stair and ramp handrails shall have raised characters with braille permanently fixed on the underside of the horizontal section, at the beginning and at the end of every handrail on stairs indicating: a. the floor number; b. the direction of egress; and c. the exit floor shall be indicated by a tactile star. New text starts here D. the location of the stairwell Will be marked in such a way that emergency personnel can easily identify the exact location of that particular railing.
Why should we change it?
An emergency often causes a person to not know exactly where they are. In order for emergency personnel to be able to locate and aid in the egress of any person, they must know exactly the location of a person, should that person need to be rescued from that location. For that reason, just knowing the floor number on a stairwell is not sufficient. It is necessary to know exactly which stairwell, which building, between which floors, which landing, so that exact location is known.
Heading text
12.6.1 Tactile information on stair and ramp handrails
Heading number portion
12.6.1
Item id
1769034479380_367
Heading id
s11
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
Harmonize the specifications and conditions for refuge, muster, shelter, waiting, and fire compartment areas
What should we change it to?
Harmonize the condition, such as lighting, emergency power, signage, Communications, and size
Why should we change it?
The areas listed are all a place where persons with disabilities might congregate during an emergency, waiting for evacuation. It is my feeling that these specifications and conditions are not harmonized, and an effort should be made to do so.
Heading text
12. Built environment
Heading number portion
12.
Item id
1769034601388_882
Heading id
s12.1.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
12.1.7 Areas of refuge communication A communication system shall: a. be provided in each area of refuge; b. c. be equipped with a hands-free two-way communication system that is at a maximum height of 1200 mm; provide feedback to occupants acknowledging receipt of their communication (similar to an elevator); d. be adjacent to a clear space of 900 x 1500 mm; e. be connected to backup power; f. g. be connected to an emergency response system; have a two-way texting system complying with International Telecommunications Union (ITU) V.18, “Operational and interworking requirements for DCEs operating in the text telephone mode,” to support people who are Deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing; and h. be linked to security or emergency call centre. A communication system should be equipped with a volume control device
What should we change it to?
Add one more condition, letter I. I. all communication systems that a person with a disability might use will be available, resilient, and fire resistant in this and all areas used in emergency situations.
Why should we change it?
Persons with disabilities use many communication systems, the most popular one is the smart phone connected to Wi-Fi or mobile cellular systems. The communication system used inside a facility must be compatible with, and fire resistant, so that communication can be maintained.
Heading text
12.1.7 Areas of refuge communication
Heading number portion
12.1.7
Item id
1769034879375_83
Heading id
s13.1.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
A single-stage system is designed so that, when activated, the alarm signal shall be immediately transmitted throughout the building to warn the occupants that an emergency exists.
What should we change it to?
Add more description at the end of this item to make it more clear to a person with a disability through the appropriate communication channels, and updates until all clear signals are given 13.1.1 Single-stage system A single-stage system is designed so that, when activated, the alarm signal shall be immediately transmitted throughout the building to warn the occupants that an emergency exists. New text starts here The alarm signal that is transmitted will use Barrier free communication systems that are compatible with the needs of persons with disabilities. Because there is no action necessary when this signal is transmitted, a subsequent, all clear, signal will be transmitted to indicate that the emergency has been resolved. To ensure that the system is failsafe, if a period of more than three minutes passes before the, all clear, signal is transmitted, another signal, indicating that the emergency is still pending, but not resolved, will be transmitted every three minutes. If possible, when the, pending signal is transmitted, a description of the emergency, location, seriousness, action, being taken, would also be helpful.
Why should we change it?
To a person with a disability, receiving a signal that indicates an emergency is ongoing causes enormous stress, and anxiety. It might also cause them to put themselves in danger by trying to protect themselves, perhaps moving to another location, calling a buddy or other assistance, person, putting on protective clothing, or while trying to activate their personal communication device, make it inoperable. For this reason, when an emergency alarm is activated, there must be the knowledge that the process will keep every person up-to-date, on a regular and frequent basis, as well as declare and all clear. Can we clarify in a Single stage System how a notification of an evacuation is handled. What kind of suggestion are you making?
Heading text
13.1.1 Single-stage system
Heading number portion
13.1.1
Item id
1769034983925_723
Heading id
s13.1.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
In a two-stage alarm system, a distinct alert signal shall first advise of the emergency. Note: A two-stage system is used in facilities where the immediate evacuation of the occupants is neither desired nor practical. The second notification in the two-stage alarm system will advise occupants on how to proceed. C-section 13 point XX Both single stage and two stage systems cause the fire alarm panel to send signals to the fire department or monitoring station (fire alarm receiving centre or 9-1-1 Centre). Alarm signals to evacuate occupants do not sound. Notification is via a voice announcement. Technical requirements for fire alarm systems are provided in the NFC.
What should we change it to?
Add a paragraph at the end. The alarm signal that is transmitted will use Barrier free communication systems that are compatible with the needs of persons with disabilities. Because there is no action necessary when parts of this signal is transmitted, a , all clear, signal will be transmitted to indicate that the emergency has been resolved. To ensure that the system is failsafe, if a period of more than three minutes passes before the, all clear, signal is transmitted, another signal, indicating that the emergency is still pending, but not resolved, will be transmitted every three minutes. If possible, when the, pending signal is transmitted, a description of the emergency, seriousness, action, being taken, would also be helpful. If there are any Voice announcements, there will be a identical transmission of this message in a barrier freeway that works for the communication systems used by persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
An emergency signal causes stress and anxiety for persons with disability. For this reason, all signals must be clear, and updates and all clear signals must be part of the process.
Heading text
13.1.2 Two-stage system
Heading number portion
13.1.2
Item id
1769035041854_181
Heading id
s13.1.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
13.1.2 Two-stage system In a two-stage alarm system, a distinct alert signal shall first advise of the emergency. Note: A two-stage system is used in facilities where the immediate evacuation of the occupants is neither desired nor practical. The second notification in the two-stage alarm system will advise occupants on how to proceed. Both single stage and two stage systems cause the fire alarm panel to send signals to the fire department or monitoring station (fire alarm receiving centre or 9-1-1 Centre). Alarm signals to evacuate occupants do not sound. Notification is via a voice announcement.
What should we change it to?
There are a few statements in this section that should be clarified. 1. Note: A two-stage system is used in facilities where the immediate evacuation of the occupants is neither desired nor practical. Can you give some examples? Prisons? Hospitals? This signal is not when there is an immediate need for an evacuation, but how long might it take before that need becomes necessary. 2. Alarm signals to evacuate occupants do not sound. Notification is via a voice announcement. If notification is given using voice, what about persons who are deaf, or DEF Blind. 3. Like the single stage system, there must be communication while the emergency is pending as updates, on a frequent basis, as well as an all clear signal. 4. Clarify that the, how to proceed, signal, might be a signal to evacuate, although this is neither immediate, planned nor desirable
Why should we change it?
This section is somewhat less than clear, and needs to be clarified.
Heading text
13.1.2 Two-stage system
Heading number portion
13.1.2
Item id
1769035112948_330
Heading id
s13.1.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add a line at the end of both section
What should we change it to?
Add this line at the end of each of these two sections. The visible strobe signal in the event of a fire, shall also be accompanied by a communication Barrier free systems that use communication systems used by persons with disabilities.. C-section 13 point XX.
Why should we change it?
A visible stroke signal will not work for persons with certain disabilities, in particular those with impaired vision or no vision. In addition, certain neurodivergent conditions might be triggered by an intense strobe light.
Heading text
13.1.3 Where a fire alarm system is provided
Heading number portion
13.1.3
Item id
1769035195693_470
Heading id
heading-90
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats Building managers shall ensure communication systems that can alert all building occupants are in place in the event of an emergency. Note 1: Clear and efficient communication with everyone, including regular occupants and visitors, will enhance the safety of all building users during an emergency. All building occupants shall: a. b. receive emergency egress information in the format of their choice; and discuss format choices during the preparation of an individual’s personal emergency egress plan. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation.
What should we change it to?
Add letter F 13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats Building managers shall ensure communication systems that can alert all building occupants are in place in the event of an emergency. Note 1: Clear and efficient communication with everyone, including regular occupants and visitors, will enhance the safety of all building users during an emergency. All building occupants shall: a. b. receive emergency egress information in the format of their choice; and Receive egress information in the format selected during the preparation of an individual’s personal emergency egress plan. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation. New text starts here F. ensure barrier free communication systems backed up by emergency power or generators are available that are compatible with all communication systems used by persons with disabilities
Why should we change it?
During an emergency, Communications are absolutely vital to ensure efficient egress and survival. The communication systems used by persons with disabilities, in various format, must be connected with the communication, alarm and notification systems in the building.
Heading text
13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats
Heading number portion
13.1.4.1
Item id
1769035258541_642
Heading id
heading-90
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Building managers shall ensure communication systems that can alert all building occupants are in place in the event of an emergency. Note 1: Clear and efficient communication with everyone, including regular occupants and visitors, will enhance the safety of all building users during an emergency. All building occupants shall: a. b. receive emergency egress information in the format of their choice; and discuss format choices during the preparation of an individual’s personal emergency egress plan. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation.
What should we change it to?
Replace the following phrase. Some building occupants may need information in various formats, including: a. large print; b. electronic messaging; c. speech synthesizers; d. an electronic pager; or e. sign language interpretation. And replace with Some building occupants may need information in a format identified in the personal emergency evacuation plan, or any other Barrier free format that works with communication systems used by persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
The technology that persons with disabilities use is changing rapidly. Some of those listed here, such as electronic pagers, are no longer used, and some, such as smart glasses, or smart phones, with speech to text or text to speech, are not mentioned at all. For this reason, a more functional specification should be used.
Heading text
13.1.4.1 Emergency communication formats
Heading number portion
13.1.4.1
Item id
1769035391364_604
Heading id
s13.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.2.1 Alerting or signaling devices There are a variety of signaling devices available that provide either visible, audible or tactile cues to signal an alarm. Information on alerting devices and emergency alerting systems in Canada is provided in Annex C (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc- 22-emergency-egress-exit/20-annex-c-emergency-alerting-and-communication-technologies-persons-disabilities). Lower frequency audible alarms should be provided for people who are hard of hearing. Note: They are particularly effective when the building occupant is asleep. Also available for people sleeping are assistive technologies that provide alerts by a flashing light and/or a pillow vibrating device placed under the pillow when triggered by a fire or smoke alarm.
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence before Lower frequency audible alarms should be provided for people who are hard of hearing Add the following This standard works in certain situations, but other technologies and devices shall be used in particular, those Communication barrier free systems and devices that are suitable for persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
The standard specified in NXC is really made for emergency alerts over an entire area, not in a particular building. In addition, it is somewhat limited, and so a functional description must be added. For this reason, other devices and techniques must be used that work for persons with disabilities in a particular facility, or a part of a particular facility.
Heading text
13.2.1 Alerting or signaling devices
Heading number portion
13.2.1
Item id
1769035531660_752
Heading id
s13.2.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.2.2 Visible device location Visible signal devices (strobes) shall be connected to a power source and emit a strobe light. The signal shall be provided in both public and private areas of a building. Visible signal devices shall be; a. located in conformance with the installation requirements for visible signal devices in CAN/ULC-S524.
What should we change it to?
Add a phrase at the end Every visible signal Location shall also have technologies that enable any person with a disability to receive the same message as if they were able to receive the information from the visible signal device in a barrier freeway compatible with the technology used by persons with disabilities.
Why should we change it?
Visible signal devices work for the general population, but there are many persons with disabilities for whom this is not appropriate. For this reason, technologies must be added to these devices to ensure that every occupant, resident, or visitor can receive the message sent by the visible signal device.
Heading text
13.2.2 Visible device location
Heading number portion
13.2.2
Item id
1769035716362_860
Heading id
s13.2.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.2.3 Smart phonesCommunication tools such as smart phones or mobile phones are increasingly being used by everyone. They are an excellent form of communication as they can receive audio and tactile alerts to notify of an incoming message and can be used in text and voice (audible) formats. Alert signals shall be transmitted via the National Public Alert System by all telecommunications providers. See Annex C (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/20-annex-c-emergency-alerting-and- communication-technologies-persons-disabilities) for information on national and provincial alert systems.
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence at the end indicating the difference between the standard listed in annex C, which is a general, widespread notification system, and the notifications necessary in and particular facility during an emergency. 13.2.3 Smart phonesCommunication tools such as smart phones or mobile phones are increasingly being used by everyone. They are an excellent form of communication as they can receive audio and tactile alerts to notify of an incoming message and can be used in text and voice (audible) formats. Alert signals shall be transmitted via the National Public Alert System by all telecommunications providers. See Annex C (https://accessible.canada.ca/creating-accessibility-standards/can-asc-22-emergency-egress-exit/20-annex-c-emergency-alerting-and- communication-technologies-persons-disabilities) for information on national and provincial alert systems. New text starts here the notification system described in NXC is used for widespread announcements of emergency situations. every facility must also have an notification system suitable for use by persons with disabilities at the beginning, during, and at the end of any emergency. smart phones and devices are suitable for this notification system, but there might be certain persons with disabilities who require other devices or systems to be aware of emergency egress and exit instructions during an emergency
Why should we change it?
The system described in annex is designed for use to alert a general population of an emergency in a particular area. It may not be suitable for all persons with disabilities, or might be too widespread to be of use during the emergency instructions necessary to perform a safe egress from a facility. For this reason, the standard must be amended to ensure that all situations are covered, not just those by the technology in annex C.
Heading text
13.2.3 Smart phones
Heading number portion
13.2.3
Item id
1769035923923_942
Heading id
s13.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.3 Emergency telephones Where provided, an emergency telephone shall: a. b. c. d. e. display the symbol for an Emergency Phone; provide its operable parts not more than 1200 mm from the floor; have the illumination level measured at the operating devices at least 200 lux; be hearing aid compatible; and have a volume control with amplification of (30-50 dB).
What should we change it to?
Add a few conditions at the end starting with letter F to enable all persons with disabilities, particular, blind, or deaf, to have a safe emergency egress. 13.3 Emergency telephones 13.3 Emergency telephones Where provided, an emergency telephone shall: a. b. c. d. e. display the symbol for an Emergency Phone; provide its operable parts not more than 1200 mm from the floor; have the illumination level measured at the operating devices at least 200 lux; be hearing aid compatible; and have a volume control with amplification of (30-50 dB). New text starts here F connected to an emergency backup generator or emergency backup battery system G. have signage indicating the exact location of the emergency telephone so that emergency personnel can easily identify the position of any caller H. Ensure that for any person with a disability for whom the emergency telephone is not suitable, that every other system used in a barrier free way by persons with disability of communication works in the same location as the emergency telephone..
Why should we change it?
The emergency telephone does not work for all persons, and in all those locations, all other communication systems must work also.
Heading text
13.3 Emergency telephones
Heading number portion
13.3
Item id
1769035989961_665
Heading id
s13.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.4 Public announcements Whenever a public announcement is provided in an audio format, it shall be provided at designated areas on all floors of a building in text display and transmitted electronically to building occupants. All public announcements relating to emergency egress shall be provided in a variety of formats, including: a. audible announcements; b. broadcasting to hearing technologies and implantable devices; c. visual announcements; and d. electronic announcements. Note: Variable message boards should also be used. When provided, variable message boards shall: a. b. not use pre-recorded messages for emergency information; utilize a well-contrasted characters (avoiding red and green or blue on a black background); c. be mounted at a maximum height of 1500 mm; and d. be centrally located.
What should we change it to?
Add a line starting with letter E to ensure that whatever communication system is used, that there be a communication system that works for every person with a disability. 13.4 Public announcements Whenever a public announcement is provided in an audio format, it shall be provided at designated areas on all floors of a building in text display and transmitted electronically to building occupants. All public announcements relating to emergency egress shall be provided in a variety of formats, including: a. audible announcements; b. broadcasting to hearing technologies and implantable devices; c. visual announcements; and d. electronic announcements. New text starts here E. Every public announcement or message Board notification will also be communicated using Barrier free communication systems and devices that are compatible with those used by persons with disabilities. New text ends here Note: Variable message boards should also be used. When provided, variable message boards shall: a. b. not use pre-recorded messages for emergency information; utilize a well-contrasted characters (avoiding red and green or blue on a black background); c. be mounted at a maximum height of 1500 mm; and d. be centrally located.
Why should we change it?
This clause lists various technologies for public announcements, however, there are certain persons with disabilities, deaf, or blind, as examples for whom these technologies are not suitable. For this reason, there must be an additional phrase to ensure that no person with a disability is left during an emergency without a communication system that works for them.
Heading text
13.4 Public announcements
Heading number portion
13.4
Item id
1769036124915_152
Heading id
s13.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
13.5 Audio systems (assistive listening systems) A permanent assistive audio system shall be provided where there is an exchange of emergency information, including in the following floor areas: a. in elevators; b. as part of emergency warning intercom systems; c. as part of all public announcement systems; and d. at security checkpoints.
What should we change it to?
Add a line starting with letter E 13.5 Audio systems (assistive listening systems) A permanent assistive audio system shall be provided where there is an exchange of emergency information, including in the following floor areas: a. in elevators; b. as part of emergency warning intercom systems; c. as part of all public announcement systems; and d. at security checkpoints. New text starts here E any assistive system that meets the conditions of this clause shall also be integrated with all communications systems that are necessary for persons with disabilities to receive the appropriate instructions during an emergency egress in a barrier free way. situation.
Why should we change it?
Because this clause is focused on audio systems, it is unsuitable for persons with disabilities, in particular, those who are deaf or heart of hearing, and a person with low or no vision might also need more instruction than can be had through an audio system. For this reason, whatever information comes through this audio system, must also be able to be transmitted to every person, including those with disabilities.
Heading text
13.5 Audio systems (assistive listening systems)
Heading number portion
13.5
Item id
1769036528464_42
Heading id
s13
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
14. Illumination and emergency power Illumination of accessible egress paths of travel and Areas of Refuge shall be: a. no less than 200 lux at floor level; b. be placed to avoid glare; and c. supplemented by emergency power. Separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems shall be supported by a backup generator. Emergency electrical power will ensure adequate emergency lighting for the use of elevators and key operating components or other systems during a power outage. A photoluminescence lighting system along the floor should be provided to indicate the accessible egress path of travel. Illumination in elevators shall be a minimum of 100 lux.
What should we change it to?
Add the words, muster, waiting, or shelter, after the word, refuge. 14. Illumination and emergency power Illumination of accessible egress paths of travel and Areas of Refuge Muster, waiting, or shelter shall be: a. no less than 200 lux at floor level; b. be placed to avoid glare; and c. supplemented by emergency power. Separate emergency lighting and ventilation systems shall be supported by a backup generator. Emergency electrical power will ensure adequate emergency lighting for the use of elevators and key operating components or other systems during a power outage. A photoluminescence lighting system along the floor should be provided to indicate the accessible egress path of travel. Illumination in elevators shall be a minimum of 100 lux.
Why should we change it?
Every area where persons might be gathered, waiting for help during an emergency egress must be appropriately lit. These include not only refuge, but also waiting, muster, or shelter. The word photoluminescence is somewhat technical, and should either be placed in the definitions, or perhaps the more familiar, glow in the dark phrase used.
Heading text
14. Illumination and emergency power
Heading number portion
14.
Item id
1769036777040_127
Heading id
s15.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.1 General The use of elevators for evacuation is one key strategy for evacuation of people who are unable to use stairs.
What should we change it to?
Enlarge the choice of using this type of elevator during an emergency By adding to the phrase after, using the stairs.. 15.1 General The use of elevators for evacuation is one key strategy for evacuation of people who are unable to use stairs. New text starts here and for evacuation of people who decide that this type of elevator is a safer or more rapid method of egress then stairs during an evacuation
Why should we change it?
The use of this type of elevator should not be limited to those that are unable to use stairs. If this type of elevator is the safest and most rapid evacuation route, then anyone should be allowed to use it. In particular, persons with some types of disabilities struggle with stairs, even in the best of times, especially those who are blind, deaf, blind, or have impaired vision, and so this type of elevator must be able to be used by them.
Heading text
15.1 General
Heading number portion
15.1
Item id
1769040013855_820
Heading id
s15.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3 Occupant evacuation elevators An Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs.
What should we change it to?
Enlarge the choice of using this type of elevator during an emergency By adding to the phrase after,. Use the stairs.. 15.3 Occupant evacuation elevators An Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. New text starts here and for evacuation of people who decide that this type of elevator is a safer or more rapid method of egress then stairs during an evacuation.
Why should we change it?
The use of this type of elevator should not be limited to those that are unable to use stairs. If this type of elevator is the safest and most rapid evacuation route, then anyone should be allowed to use it. In particular, persons with some types of disabilities struggle with stairs, even in the best of times, especially those who are blind, deaf, blind, or have impaired vision, and so this type of elevator must be able to be used by them.
Heading text
15.3 Occupant evacuation elevators
Heading number portion
15.3
Item id
1769040131527_848
Heading id
s15.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator ( OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs.
What should we change it to?
Enlarge the use of this type of elevator by adding to the phrase, people unable to use the stairs. 15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. New text starts here and can be used by people who decide that this type of elevator is a safer or more rapid method of egress then stairs
Why should we change it?
The use of this type of elevator should not be limited to those that are unable to use stairs. If this type of elevator is the safest and most rapid evacuation route, then anyone should be allowed to use it. In particular, persons with some types of disabilities struggle with stairs, even in the best of times, especially those who are blind, deaf, blind, or have impaired vision, and so this type of elevator must be able to be used by them.
Heading text
15.3.1 Information
Heading number portion
15.3.1
Item id
1769040253464_116
Heading id
s15.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication
What should we change it to?
Add a phrase after Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. 15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. New text starts here Any two way system or visual screen shall also have technologies, integrated, or nearby in a failsafe manner, such that persons with disabilities using Barrier free accessible and usable, technologies will receive all notifications and announcements, before, during, and after an emergency or evacuation.
Why should we change it?
Any system that delivers notifications to the occupants, residence or visitors in a building must deliver messages to everyone who is there, including persons with disabilities.
Heading text
15.3.1 Information
Heading number portion
15.3.1
Item id
1769040374910_561
Heading id
s15.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. Information on its use shall: a. be incorporated into the fire safety plan; b. be incorporated into the PEEPs, when appropriate; and c. be included in the posted fire safety evacuation plan. Occupants of a building shall be instructed in how to use and when to operate an OEE. There shall be signs posted on all floors adjacent to each elevator call station for OEEs.
What should we change it to?
Add a line at the end enhancing the ability to locate this type of elevator during an emergency. Just a sign is not sufficient. 15.3.1 InformationAn Occupant Evacuation Elevator (OEE) is designed to be used for evacuation purposes by people unable to use the stairs. A two-way text/communication system shall be provided inside and outside the OEE elevators. A two-way text communication system inside and outside elevators are available that will provide a visual screen to connect with security. Alternately, Wi-Fi availability can facilitate communication. Information on its use shall: a. be incorporated into the fire safety plan; b. be incorporated into the PEEPs, when appropriate; and c. be included in the posted fire safety evacuation plan. Occupants of a building shall be instructed in how to use and when to operate an OEE. There shall be signs posted on all floors adjacent to each elevator call station for OEEs. New text starts here In addition to signs posted on every floor for this type of elevator, there shall be notification and announcement Barrier free, accessible, and usable, systems suitable for persons with disabilities, such as voice alerts, identification, flashing light, and tactile markings on the floor to announce this type of elevator.
Why should we change it?
As this type of elevator might be the safest and most rapid route of evacuation, it is essential that anybody be able to find them during the stress, noise, and perhaps reduced visibility of an emergency. For this reason, notification and announcement enhancements such as those listed must be installed.
Heading text
15.3.1 Information
Heading number portion
15.3.1
Item id
1769040446639_422
Heading id
s15.4.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.4.1 Space All elevators shall provide a clear floor area of 2,010 mm minimum in length and 610 mm minimum in width to accommodate a stretcher in the prone position and additional space for two persons.
What should we change it to?
Replace, additional space for two persons, with a clause indicating how this number is to be calculated. 15.4.1 Space All elevators shall provide a clear floor area of 2,010 mm minimum in length and 610 mm minimum in width to accommodate a stretcher in the prone position New text starts here and additional space for the number of persons that is appropriate for the number of occupants, residence, and visitors, as well as the number of elevators and floors.
Why should we change it?
From a risk management perspective, the elevator of this type might be the safest and most rapid way to evacuate the building, and so many people might decide to use it. This number must be calculated proportionate to the number of persons in the building , and other factors, so that the maximum number of people can be evacuated in a safe manner.
Heading text
15.4.1 Space
Heading number portion
15.4.1
Item id
1769040503320_398
Heading id
s15.4.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.4.3 Identification An elevator that is designed to accommodate a stretcher or OEE shall be clearly identified on every level the elevator serves.
What should we change it to?
Add a clause at the end, indicating that the elevator of this type must be identified in a way that works for persons with disabilities. 15.4.3 Identification An elevator that is designed to accommodate a stretcher or OEE shall be clearly identified on every level the elevator serves. New text starts here In addition to signs posted on every floor for this type of elevator, there shall be notification and announcement Barrier free, accessible, and usable systems suitable for persons with disabilities, such as voice alerts, identification, flashing light, and tactile markings on the floor.
Why should we change it?
As this type of elevator might be the safest and most rapid route of evacuation, it is essential that anybody be able to find them during the stress, noise, and perhaps Limited visibility of an emergency. For this reason, notification and announcement enhancements such as those listed must be installed.
Heading text
15.4.3 Identification
Heading number portion
15.4.3
Item id
1769040563854_329
Heading id
s15.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height of 1200 mm; be equipped with braille and raised characters on buttons located to the left of the operation button; and have a well-contrasted operation button.
What should we change it to?
Change clause E to a height that fits the general population. 15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height that matches the median height of occupants and residence;
Why should we change it?
From a standard perspective, it is understandable to choose a height of control surfaces that match the person whose reach is limited to a certain amount that might need these controls. From a risk management perspective, the choice of height must match the most persons that are able to use it. For this reason, the height of the control surface, must meet the needs of the person's in the facility on an average basis, not the person with the least Reach. In addition, for persons with disabilities, perhaps vision, impairment, neurodivergent, or less able to kneel, stretch, or bend to be able to enact these controls, the height must be appropriate for them.
Heading text
15.5 Elevator controls
Heading number portion
15.5
Item id
1769040624893_805
Heading id
s15.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height of 1200 mm; be equipped with braille and raised characters on buttons located to the left of the operation button; and have a well-contrasted operation button.
What should we change it to?
Add a line F, , indicating function appropriate for emergency use. 15.5 Elevator controls Elevator car controls shall: a. b. c. d. be mounted on the front and side walls of the elevator cab; be mounted at a maximum height of 1200 mm; be equipped with braille and raised characters on buttons located to the left of the operation button; and have a well-contrasted operation button. F. Any elevator of this type must have a Barrier free, accessible, and usable system that enables persons with disabilities to direct it to the floor that has the safest evacuation route.
Why should we change it?
During the stress of an emergency, it may be difficult for a person with a disability to know, or select the correct floor. For this reason, there must be an embedded system that can direct the occupant, resident, or visitor to the safest floor. for a safe evacuation route. For this reason, such a system must be embedded into the elevator, in fail safe a manner.
Heading text
15.5 Elevator controls
Heading number portion
15.5
Item id
1769042154938_103
Heading id
s16.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.1 Application All signage and way finding relating to emergency egress shall be accessible and shall include text, visual, tactile and Braille characters. There are different types of signage that relate to emergency egress for various purposes: a. regulatory signs, which include information, including safety and emergency signs; b. mandatory signs which denote an order requiring an action; and c. warning signs such as caution and danger signs denote a potential hazard and a definite hazard. Note: Red, blue or green LEDs shall be avoided on a black background as they are unreadable for most people with vision loss
What should we change it to?
The note at the end about red, green and blue lights should be harmonize with signage standards for persons with low or no vision. 16.1 Application All signage and way finding relating to emergency egress shall be accessible and shall include text, visual, tactile and Braille characters. There are different types of signage that relate to emergency egress for various purposes: a. regulatory signs, which include information, including safety and emergency signs; b. mandatory signs which denote an order requiring an action; and c. warning signs such as caution and danger signs denote a potential hazard and a definite hazard. Note. All signs shall Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, color, and contrast and standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
There is a standard that specifies font, size, font style, color, and contrast to ensure usability and legibility. This standard should be harmonized with the emergency egress standard.
Heading text
16.1 Application
Heading number portion
16.1
Item id
1769042265313_87
Heading id
s16.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.2 Directional signage The following signs shall be posted indicating the accessible egress route: a. accessible egress path of travel to an exit, an area of refuge and a horizontal separation, if it is used as an area of refuge; and b. accessible egress path of travel to an occupant evacuation elevator. Emergency egress signage shall be identified by directional signage indicating the accessible egress path of travel to the final exit.
What should we change it to?
Clarify the different lettered phrases, and add, areas of shelter, muster, and waiting. 16.2 Directional signage The following signs shall be posted indicating the accessible egress route to : a. an exit, B. an area of refuge, waiting, shelter, or muster C. a horizontal separation, if it is used as an area of refuge , shelter, waiting, or mustard ; b. an occupant evacuation elevator. Emergency egress signage shall be identified by directional signage indicating the accessible egress path of travel to the final exit.
Why should we change it?
The sections with letters are two tightly condensed, and other areas besides refuge, such as waiting, shelter, and muster need to be identified.
Heading text
16.2 Directional signage
Heading number portion
16.2
Item id
1769042321761_797
Heading id
s16.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.2 Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request.
What should we change it to?
Change and merge c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request. Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; C. All signs shall Conform and harmonize two standards for usability and legibility for font style, size, color, and contrast as well as standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
All signage should be installed in formats that are suitable for persons with disabilities. There is a standard that describes font style, size, color, and contrast, and this must be harmonized with the emergency egress standard.
Heading text
16.2 Directional signage
Heading number portion
16.2
Item id
1769043027916_157
Heading id
s16.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.2 Directional sign16.2 Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request. age
What should we change it to?
Add some lettered clauses to ensure these signs are are usable and legible at all times, including power outages Starting with E. in this standard. 16.2 Directional signage Emergency egress directional signage shall be: a. posted at all decision points throughout the building; b. mounted with its centre between 1200 mm and 1500 mm from the finished floor; c. provided with legible, clear font not less than 16 pt; and d. available in alternative accessible formats, upon request. E. be self illuminated, externally illuminated, or glow in the dark. Any power for illumination shall be from emergency backup generators. F. every directional sign shall also have identification Marker on it that shows the location of the sign, so that emergency personnel can easily locate a person who calls in needing assistance and references this identification marker. The identification marker shall also be in tactile and braille. G. directional signs shall be surrounded by tactile floor surface, large enough for a person with low or no vision to locate it, and small enough not to interfere with evacuation procedures. H. directional markers shall emit a sound loud enough for a person with a disability to locate it, but not loud enough to interfere with evacuation procedures.
Why should we change it?
Directional markers are the lifeline to safety, and so they should be easily found, by any person, and have enough information so that any person will know which direction to go in, and enable emergency personnel to locate a person needing assistance.
Heading text
16.2 Directional signage
Heading number portion
16.2
Item id
1769043141218_567
Heading id
s16.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
The entire clause
What should we change it to?
Shorten the list.
Why should we change it?
It feels like a map with so many items would be more confusing than informative.
Heading text
16.3 Emergency evacuation map
Heading number portion
16.3
Item id
1769043202675_303
Heading id
s16.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
be located in central locations of the building; incorporate a font size of no less than 14 point; o. be color contrasted; p. be available in alternate formats; q. when possible, avoid the use of red and green; and r. use official pictograms.
What should we change it to?
Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, color, and contrast and standards for alternate formats. For those persons with disabilities for whom a map is not suitable, list and have a contact person to explain and demonstrate, and practice, the necessary information that will lead to a successful emergency egress. . Use only approved ISO pictograms. Have a legend that explains in an accessible format what each pictogram is.
Why should we change it?
There are three parts to this suggestion. 1. Font style, size, color, and contrast must conformed and harmonize with the approved standard. 2. For those for whom maps are not accessible, an alternate person to explain must be available. 3. Pictograms can be mysterious, so only approved ones should be used, and even though they are approved, must be explained in a legend.
Heading text
16.3 Emergency evacuation map
Heading number portion
16.3
Item id
1769043278403_545
Heading id
s16.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.4 Tactile maps Tactile maps of the posted emergency evacuation map should be provided at the building entrance. Where provided, tactile maps shall: a. be angled between 20° minimum and 30° maximum from the horizontal;b. c. d. have the bottom edge 900 mm minimum above the finished floor surface; E. have the key located at the bottom of the map and left justified; and F. have a recessed braille locator provided on the left-hand side to assist in locating the legend.
What should we change it to?
Add a clause G , ensuring that user feedback is incorporated into each revision, and continue this process until users are satisfied. G in the spirit of continuous improvement, as soon as possible, after the opening of the facility, survey the users of this tactile map on a regular basis and revise the map, consistent with suggestions, until users and the facility accessibility panel are satisfied..
Why should we change it?
A tactile map design must conform to a delicate balance between just the right amount of information, properly displayed, and too much information which could overload the user. Only the user can decide on this, and so it is necessary to Survey the user experience, and continuously changed the map until users are satisfied.
Heading text
16.4 Tactile maps
Heading number portion
16.4
Item id
1769043332826_533
Heading id
s16.5.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.5.1 Enclosed stairway signage An enclosed stairway shall have a sign identifying the storey in raised characters and braille with a high luminance contrast to its background at each landing that provides access to a floor area.
What should we change it to?
Add additional items to facilitate emergency egress. 16.5.1 Enclosed stairway signage A. An enclosed stairway shall have a sign identifying the storey in raised characters and braille with a high luminance contrast to its background at each landing that provides access to a floor area. New text starts here The sign shall Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, colour, and contrast and standards for alternate formats. C. On those floors where there is exit, refuge, shelter, or waiting areas, this shall be marked on the door in formats that conform with the standard for accessibility. D. each sign shall have an identification marker in an accessible format that locates where the door is in a way that emergency personnel with this information could easily locate a person.
Why should we change it?
This suggestion covers the following reasons. 1. All signage must conform to an harmonize with the standards for accessibility, usability, and legibility. 2. In order to ensure a safe evacuation, the door must be marked with information about that particular floor as to whether it has a exit, refuge , muster or shelter area on it. 3. In large buildings, their are many doors, many floors, and many stairwells. If a person needs to be rescued from that particular door area, they must be able to locate and identify it in a unique way when communicating with emergency personnel.
Heading text
16.5.1 Enclosed stairway signage
Heading number portion
16.5.1
Item id
1769043381780_876
Heading id
s16.5.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
16.5.2 Exit door signage An accessible exit door discharging to the exterior of a building or another building shall: a. have a sign with raised characters and braille; b. if discharging directly to the exterior, lead to an accessible exterior path of travel and the exterior muster point; and c. if discharging to another building, lead to a path of travel that complies with this Standard.
What should we change it to?
Add a sentence after clause, A clarifying the standards to be met 16.5.2 Exit door signage An accessible exit door discharging to the exterior of a building or another building shall: a. have a sign with raised characters and braille; New text starts here the sign shall Conform and harmonize with signage standards for accessibility, usability and legibility including font style, size, colour, and contrast and standards for alternate formats.
Why should we change it?
All signage must conform and harmonize with relevant standards .
Heading text
16.5.2 Exit door signage
Heading number portion
16.5.2
Item id
1769045265476_780
Heading id
s13.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
speaks to the effectiveness of visible signal devices (and other devices) for waking sleeping people.
What should we change it to?
However, the challenge is that the fire alarm systems that this standard includes, unlike smoke alarms, are not located in sleeping units. Fire alarm systems are generally in apartment buildings (rental and condo) and are generally required in corridors, common areas, and other non-sleeping units. As an additional element in Ontario, for example, in the residential suites within these large buildings are generally smoke alarms that are specific to that suite and not connected to the building fire alarm system. This is one reason why Ontario’s smoke alarm requirement implemented in its 2015 provincial Building Code in section 3.2.4.22 included the requirement for residential standalone smoke alarms in each sleeping room (sub-section 3.a). Since subsection 13 also required visual signaling component, this is where the value in waking sleeping people occurs and why Ontario made the decision to include a comprehensive fire alarms systems and smoke alarm requirement so that safety and accessibility was increased for all residents of these new buildings.
Why should we change it?
NA
Heading text
13.2.1 Alerting or signaling devices
Heading number portion
13.2.1
Item id
1769045319036_391
Heading id
s13.1.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
speaks to cases “where a fire alarm system is not provided, the visible SIGNAL system shall consist of strobe lights conforming to CAN/ULC-S526.”
What should we change it to?
We believe that this is an opportunity to include a requirement for smoke alarms with visible signal devices as a cost-effective method of including the accessibility technology in a manner that includes the additional benefit of an audible device. • Section 7.1(a) notes that the standard shall apply to “all new buildings.” o In this case, there is a gap in application on single-family homes, which do not require fire alarm systems, but rather smoke alarms. The benefits of visible signal technology are clear: • Enhanced visibility: Strobe lights are highly visible due to their intense and rapid flashing. They can cut through visual clutter, effectively capturing attention and conveying urgent messages. In emergency situations or high-noise environments, strobe lights provide a visual cue to help ensure people are alert and respond appropriately. They are also synchronized at 1hz for safety and accessibility and to address concerns that were discussed around epilepsy when Ontario put its provincial requirement in place ten years ago. o Added visibility: Kidde has also received reports from firefighters in British Columbia that visible signals have increased their response times in large
Why should we change it?
NA
Heading text
13.1.4 Where a fire alarm system is not provided
Heading number portion
13.1.4
Submission ID
64585
Submitted by
VWilliams
Submitted on
Wed, 01/21/2026 - 20:29
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64586's submission

CAN-ASC-2.2 – Emergency Egress (Exit)
Feedback items
Item id
1769046517634_137
Heading id
s12.1.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge A door serving an immediate area of refuge shall: a) be leakage-rated complying with NFPA 105; b) have a clear width complying with CSA/ASC B651; c) be equipped with a power door operator capable of being activated in the event of a loss of power via emergency power or alternative power source; and d) be located clear of any adjacent door swing and away from pedestrian exit routes.
What should we change it to?
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge A door serving an immediate area of refuge shall: a) be leakage-rated complying with NFPA 105; b) have a clear width complying with CSA/ASC B651; c) be equipped with a power door operator in compliance with either ANSI/BHMA A156.10 (Power Operated Pedestrian Doors) or ANSI/BHMA A156.19 (Power Assist and Low Energy Power Operated Swinging Doors), capable of being activated in the event of a loss of power via emergency power or alternative power source; and d) be located clear of any adjacent door swing and away from pedestrian exit routes.
Why should we change it?
These two consensus BHMA standards are well established and recognized as appropriate requirements for power operated doors. Utilizing these standards will provide specifiers and users with consistency in application and enforcement.
Heading text
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.4
Item id
1769046570263_528
Heading id
s12.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
12.2 Exit doors All doors along the egress route shall comply with CSA/ASC B651 and the NFC. They shall be equipped with power operators
What should we change it to?
All doors along the egress route shall comply with CSA/ASC B651 and the NFC. They shall be equipped with power operators in compliance with either ANSI/BHMA A156.10 (Power Operated Pedestrian Doors) or ANSI/BHMA A156.19 (Power Assist and Low Energy Power Operated Swinging Doors).
Why should we change it?
These two consensus BHMA standards are well established and recognized as appropriate requirements for power operated doors. Utilizing these standards will provide specifiers and users with consistency in application and enforcement.
Heading text
12.2 Exit doors
Heading number portion
12.2
Item id
1769046630437_261
Heading id
s16.5.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
An accessible exit door discharging to the exterior of a building or another building shall: a) have a sign with raised characters and braille; b) if discharging directly to the exterior, lead to an accessible exterior path of travel and the exterior muster point; and c) if discharging to another building, lead to a path of travel that complies with this Standard.
What should we change it to?
An accessible exit door discharging to the exterior of a building or another building shall have a sign with raised characters and braille.
Why should we change it?
Items b) and c) are already addressed in Section 12.2. Also, these two items are unrelated to signage, so they do not fit in Section 16.5.2. Therefore, these two items should be stricken from Section 16.5.2. BHMA believes this change is editorial.
Heading text
16.5.2 Exit door signage
Heading number portion
16.5.2
Submission ID
64586
Submitted by
VWilliams
Submitted on
Wed, 01/21/2026 - 20:50
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64587's submission

CAN-ASC-2.2 – Emergency Egress (Exit)
Feedback items
Item id
1769047019935_204
Heading id
s13.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Section 13.2.1 speaks to the effectiveness of visible signal devices (and other devices) for waking sleeping people
What should we change it to?
However, the challenge is that the fire alarm systems that this standard includes, unlike smoke alarms, are not located in sleeping units. Fire alarm systems are generally in apartment buildings (rental and condo) and are generally required in corridors, common areas, and other non-sleeping units. As an additional element in Ontario, for example, in the residential suites within these large buildings are generally smoke alarms that are specific to that suite and not connected to the building fire alarm system. This is one reason why Ontario’s smoke alarm requirement implemented in its 2015 provincial Building Code in section 3.2.4.22 included the requirement for residential standalone smoke alarms in each sleeping room (sub-section 3.a). Since subsection 13 also required visual signaling component, this is where the value in waking sleeping people occurs and why Ontario made the decision to include a comprehensive fire alarms systems and smoke alarm requirement so that safety and accessibility was increased for all residents of these new buildings
Why should we change it?
NA
Heading text
13.2.1 Alerting or signaling devices
Heading number portion
13.2.1
Item id
1769047150928_449
Heading id
s13.1.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Section 13.1.4 speaks to cases “where a fire alarm system is not provided, the visible SIGNAL system shall consist of strobe lights conforming to CAN/ULC-S526.
What should we change it to?
SIGNAL system shall consist of strobe lights conforming to CAN/ULC-S526.” o We believe that this is an opportunity to include a requirement for smoke alarms with visible signal devices as a cost-effective method of including the accessibility technology in a manner that includes the additional benefit of an audible device
Why should we change it?
NA
Heading text
13.1.4 Where a fire alarm system is not provided
Heading number portion
13.1.4
Item id
1769047228391_838
Heading id
s7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Section 7.1(a) notes that the standard shall apply to “all new buildings.”
What should we change it to?
In this case, there is a gap in application on single-family homes, which do not require fire alarm systems, but rather smoke alarms. The benefits of visible signal technology are clear: • Enhanced visibility: Strobe lights are highly visible due to their intense and rapid flashing. They can cut through visual clutter, effectively capturing attention and conveying urgent messages. In emergency situations or high-noise environments, strobe lights provide a visual cue to help ensure people are alert and respond appropriately. They are also synchronized at 1hz for safety and accessibility and to address concerns that were discussed around epilepsy when Ontario put its provincial requirement in place ten years ago. o Added visibility: Kidde has also received reports from firefighters in British Columbia that visible signals have increased their response times in large apartment buildings or condo, where flashing lights from individual units seen from the street has enabled them to locate the fire earlier, and respond faster. • Accessibility and inclusivity: Strobe lights benefit individuals with hearing impairments. By providing a visual component to alarm systems, strobe lights ensure that those who may not hear or have difficulty hearing audible alarms can still receive crucial alerts. This enhances accessibility and promotes the safety of individuals with hearing disabilities. As Proposed Change 2252 states, “Statistics Canada reports in 2021 that “overall, 60% of Canadians aged 19 to 79 have a hearing health problem,” and 38% have hearing loss. The percentage of the population reported to have hearing loss was reported to be 10% in 2001.” The problem has clearly been growing. o Added inclusivity: Beyond the growing segment of the population with hearing disabilities, visible signals also have an added benefit of waking sleeping children, who have a tendency of deep sleep that can tune out sounds such as smoke alarm tones.1 • Increased effectiveness in noisy environments: Traditional audible alarms may be difficult to hear in loud or noisy environments, such as construction sites or industrial settings. Strobe lights overcome this limitation by providing a visual signal that can be easily noticed amidst high noise levels. They can help ensure that important alerts are not missed due to ambient noise.
Why should we change it?
NA
Heading text
7.1 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.1
Submission ID
64587
Submitted by
VWilliams
Submitted on
Wed, 01/21/2026 - 21:02
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64588's submission

CAN-ASC-2.2 – Emergency Egress (Exit)
Feedback items
Item id
1769047603618_316
Heading id
s12.1.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
The chosen solution.
What should we change it to?
Adapt the solution to the new standards.
Why should we change it?
Sprinklers are no longer a solution to increasing fire-safety in areas where fire compartments are required will have an effect of more sq.ft. dedicated to egress and safety than previously considered.If this norms impacts existing infrastructure, this could be very hard to implement.
Heading text
12.1.1 Application
Heading number portion
12.1.1
Item id
1769047665083_657
Heading id
s12.1.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
More flexibility and adaptation on the requirements for refuge areas.
What should we change it to?
na
Why should we change it?
Mandatory areas of refuge on each floor is more restrictive and should be evaluated in parallel with accessibility extraction plans. I recommend that this be reviewed with Fire Safety teams – consider high traffic areas versus transient uses (like parking structures)
Heading text
12.1.1 Application
Heading number portion
12.1.1
Item id
1769047709779_18
Heading id
s12.1.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Taking into account the costs of such changes
What should we change it to?
na
Why should we change it?
Electric door operators are required for all doors in path of egress and remote operated connections to a central. This will add significant costs to projects, but makes perfect sense.
Heading text
12.1.4 Doors serving an area of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.4
Item id
1769047794885_871
Heading id
s12.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Taking into account the costs of such changes.
What should we change it to?
na
Why should we change it?
Electric door operators are required for all doors in path of egress and remote operated connections to a central. This will add significant costs to projects, but makes perfect sense.
Heading text
12.2.1 Power door operators on horizontal exit doors
Heading number portion
12.2.1
Item id
1769047982714_914
Heading id
s12.1.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
The details on the turning radius
What should we change it to?
Adding more guidance on how the turning radius can be taken into account and what room to maneuvre is available for companies in that regard.
Why should we change it?
Larger turning radius are consistent with CSAB651v23 at 2.1m (also ADM cadre regl. Requirement for new buildings) …again if this is imposed on existing infrastructures, this will be challenging.
Heading text
12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.5
Item id
1769048049635_82
Heading id
s12.1.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Lighting requirements.
What should we change it to?
More synchronisation with the building code.
Why should we change it?
Lighting level requirements of 200lux is higher than buidling code min. but consistent with requirements for accessibility
Heading text
12.1.5 Interior of areas of refuge
Heading number portion
12.1.5
Item id
1769048137612_600
Heading id
s12.1.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Taking into account the demands of the requirements for emergency communications and paging systems.
What should we change it to?
na
Why should we change it?
Requirements for emergency communication and paging system are intense and will result in added costs to projects.
Heading text
12.1.7 Areas of refuge communication
Heading number portion
12.1.7
Item id
1769048204154_31
Heading id
s12.3.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Maximum distance of travel.
What should we change it to?
More synchronisation with the NBC.
Why should we change it?
Max. distance of 45-60m of travel is more restrictive than NBC (60m)
Heading text
12.3.2 Exterior egress path of travel
Heading number portion
12.3.2
Item id
1769048241723_225
Heading id
s12.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
No use in repeting requirements already in place in CSAB651v23
What should we change it to?
na
Why should we change it?
Ramps that are part of egress paths are limited to a slope of 1:15 and include safety features for low-vision - no-vision and neurodiverse users such as notched handrails and safety tactile indicators. A lot of this is already included or recommended in CSAB651v23
Heading text
12.7 Ramps
Heading number portion
12.7
Item id
1769048288731_563
Heading id
s0
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Préciser l'entrée en vigueur des requis des aires de refuges et la communications bi-directionnelle
What should we change it to?
na
Why should we change it?
Il est important de savoir lorsque / si la norme devient une obligation réglementaire à quels projets en cours elle s'appliquera. En effet, un projet lancé et réalisé à moins de 30%, par exemple au stade de PFT (Plan fonctionnel technique) ne pourra que très difficilement et en modifiant tout le travail déjà effectué, intégrer les nouveaux requis.
Heading text
1. Accessibility Standards Canada: About us
Heading number portion
1.
Submission ID
64588
Submitted by
VWilliams
Submitted on
Wed, 01/21/2026 - 21:19
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64666's submission

CAN-ASC-2.4 – Wayfinding and Signage
Feedback items
Item id
1769803493443_547
Heading id
s10.1.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
This is wonderful and essential news that you are recommending colour temperature around 3000 K, especially for those of us who suffer from a permanent concussion disability, which causes migraines when in any environment above 3000 K). In other words, I get a migraine in every public setting where 4000 K or 5000 K was/is typical. So, I need dark overglasses everywhere. At home, 2700 K (even better) and 3000 K kitchen do not in themselves cause migraines.
What should we change it to?
You could add the term “photosensitivity,” which the Government of Canada uses re light sensitivity disability (e.g. archived Web 2.0 disabilities description)(never use “phobia.”)We are not afraid of lights. FYI, the Government of Canada lists light sensitivity on its website regarding concussions.
Why should we change it?
This is an essential new recommendation re 3000 K to alleviate daily suffering! Please make sure that you announce this ASAP and broadly when finalized.
Heading text
10.1.2 General lighting design
Heading number portion
10.1.2
Item id
1769804110884_274
Heading id
s11.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Add instruction: Do not continue same carpeting/floor tiling up the wall as a baseboard regarding vertigo. Baseboards should be a contrasting colour from the floor.
What should we change it to?
Please add above comment to the effect indicated.
Why should we change it?
Important safety issue (re vertigo, vestibular balance/ocular issues).
Heading text
11.3 Walking surfaces of interior and exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3
Item id
1769804523207_770
Heading id
s12.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Paper maps are essential to those of us with some disabilities who do not use smartphones.
What should we change it to?
Add a comment about the necessity to maintain paper maps.
Why should we change it?
Not accessible for people with computer disabilities (no smartphone).;
Heading text
12.2.1 Orientation Signs
Heading number portion
12.2.1
Item id
1769805136678_791
Heading id
s12.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Never grey font (trendy now). Not enough contrast. FYI, Sign image show contrast in black/white photocopy to measure sufficient contrast.
What should we change it to?
Not sure, but black/white photocopy test is good to confirm “70% contrast” recommended.
Why should we change it?
Best practices to minimize eye strain and increase comprehension.
Heading text
12.5 Colour contrast
Heading number portion
12.5
Submission ID
64666
Submitted by
barbarahennessy48@gmail.com
Submitted on
Fri, 01/30/2026 - 15:36
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64669's submission

CAN-ASC-2.4 – Wayfinding and Signage
Feedback items
Item id
1769808429514_604
Heading id
s3.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
consistent casing of "Accessibility Standards Canada", which sometimes appears as "accessibility standards Canada"
What should we change it to?
change all instances of "accessibility standards Canada" to "Accessibility Standards Canada"
Why should we change it?
casing of ASC should be consistent and correct in its documents. **the same casing issue was also in the ASC 2.2. draft standard. Consider fixing the template with this text. :)
Heading text
3.3 Disclaimer and exclusion of liability
Heading number portion
3.3
Item id
1769810459674_590
Heading id
s6
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
consider adding content to explain the structure of the standard, including what constitutes a clause. Consider also using different language to distinguish clause, sub-clause, sentence, etc.
What should we change it to?
consider adding content to explain the structure of the standard, including what constitutes a clause. Consider also using different language to distinguish clause, sub-clause, sentence, section, etc.
Why should we change it?
The standard relies on clauses but never defines what a clause is. Also, because everything seems to be a clause, aspects like application statements become confusing because it's not clear what specific clause is being referenced. For example, the line in Clause 10.1.1. says "This clause shall apply to the lighting of all wayfinding elements" - it's not clear if the application is for all of clause 10.1, 10.1.1, or something different.
Heading text
7. Scope
Heading number portion
7.
Item id
1769811691887_564
Heading id
s7.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
consider sorting the list in a more intuitive way (e.g., order in which topics appear in the standard)
What should we change it to?
consider sorting the list in a more intuitive way (e.g., order in which topics appear in the standard, or alphabetically)
Why should we change it?
in the absence of alphabetical sorting or sorting based on order of appearance, the list gives the impression of hierarchy among topics. This may be the case (and if so, say so), but if not, then sorting in another way will limit the impression of hierarchy if this isn't intended.
Heading text
7.2 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.2
Item id
1769811928493_689
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
use of SI acronym in Lux definition
What should we change it to?
include the full "systeme internationale" in addition to the SI acronym
Why should we change it?
SI isn't defined until clause 9.2 - after the acronym appears in the standard.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769812337957_650
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Organization of frontal, lateral and functional reach
What should we change it to?
consider listing "Reaches" on this list, and then list the frontal, lateral and functional reach underneath
Why should we change it?
the definitions are easier to understand when they are positioned together (maybe with a picture). Also, the functional reach definition depends on the lateral reach definition, which doesn't appear until later in the list.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769812842944_719
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
language on "fixed base of support" under the "functional reach" definition
What should we change it to?
modify to "without losing their balance".
Why should we change it?
The "losing balance" language is consistent with frontal and lateral reach definitions within the standard. It's also more appropriate for real-world situations than "maintaining a fixed base of support" because people can and do grab environmental features, step, and modify their stance without losing balance - deliberately walking toward a sign, widening one's stance, or grabbing a handrail to extend one's reach isn't a functional problem unless the person loses their balance. Also, "keeping a fixed base of support" is probably more jargon-y than appropriate for the general audience who would be reading this standard.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769812975107_815
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
definition of pictogram
What should we change it to?
consider removing the word "efficient"
Why should we change it?
Some pictograms don't effectively convey the intended message, and thus aren't efficient.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769813037294_283
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Weber contrast
What should we change it to?
include the equation instead of the note
Why should we change it?
equations are more clear to read and understand as intended
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1769817710242_590
Heading id
heading-68
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
note 1
What should we change it to?
consider removing it
Why should we change it?
the requirement in the body of the standard already prescribes a minimum height of 4 mm. There is no need to duplicate the information.
Heading text
11.4.3.3.2 Height of bars
Heading number portion
11.4.3.3.2
Item id
1769818438569_590
Heading id
s11.4.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
consider eliminating most of this section and just refer to CSA/ASC B651-23 clause 4.4.5, except where ASC 2.4. proposes something different or otherwise adds value
What should we change it to?
consider eliminating most of this section and just refer to CSA/ASC B651-23 clause 4.4.5, except where ASC 2.4. proposes something different or otherwise adds value
Why should we change it?
Other parts of this draft standard refer to CSA/ASC B651, so it's a bit confusing to not see any references to that standard in the section that is arguably written to match CSA in many respects. There are subtle differences between the ASC 2.4 and CSA/ASC B651 content, but it's hard to tell what they are based on the current presentation of this draft. It would be much easier for a reader to apply if ASC 2.4 just said "comply with CSA/ASC B651-23 clause 4.4.5., with the following additions and exceptions". Even if the committee disagrees with this approach, it will still be useful to publish a short primer on how this standard is different from CSA/ASC B651-23 - much easier for designers to meet the accessibility goals of both standards.
Heading text
11.4.2 Attention indicator surfaces
Heading number portion
11.4.2
Item id
1774112282582_620
Heading id
heading-29
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clauses (a) and (b)
What should we change it to?
don't change, but coordinate with ASC 2.2 (standard on emergency egress)
Why should we change it?
ASC 2.2. (at least the draft) prescribes 200 lx for minimum lighting requirements). To be clear, I don't think that 100 lx requirement in this standard should change, but I think it would be useful to address the mismatch somewhere to avoid confusion (e.g., if a space isn't designed as an exit route, 100 lx is ok for basic wayfinding).
Heading text
10.1.2.1 Basic lighting considerations
Heading number portion
10.1.2.1
Item id
1774112649698_969
Heading id
s11.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
clauses a and b
What should we change it to?
consider specifying the relevant CSA/ASC B651-23 clauses
Why should we change it?
CSA/ASC B651-23 is a long standard, and several portions aren't relevant to obstacles on paths of travel. It will be easier for designers to understand and comply with the intent of the committee if specific clauses are referenced.
Heading text
11.2.1 Obstacles on paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.1
Item id
1774112920830_829
Heading id
s11.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
the explanatory note
What should we change it to?
consider explicitly addressing benches and seating, which are important for people with mobility disabilities, hidden or otherwise
Why should we change it?
benches are really important accessibility features for people who cannot walk long distances (or honestly for people in general). It would be problematic for the take-home from this standard is "don't install benches". I think explicitly noting benches in the note will help reinforce that there are some types of obstacles that serve an important role and that need to be considered in the larger accessibility discussion.
Heading text
11.2.1 Obstacles on paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.1
Item id
1774113365268_587
Heading id
s10.1.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
minimum lighting levels
What should we change it to?
coordinate with ASC 2.2
Why should we change it?
ASC 2.2 uses different numbers (200 lx). It would be useful and help avoid confusion if guidance to a designer were provided on how to navigate those differences, considering aspects like building use. This will be especially important if both standards become mandatory for federally-regulated occupancies.
Heading text
10.1.5 Exterior lighting
Heading number portion
10.1.5
Item id
1774114625181_213
Heading id
heading-29
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
note 1
What should we change it to?
consider being a bit more specific on the intent - something like "if lighting is installed in the handrail, the function of the handrail for balance and fall prevention should still be obvious" (not the best wording, but the essential point is that people still need to see the handrail and understand its purpose and utility as a handrail)
Why should we change it?
The current wording implies that it's ok for handrails to be invisible if they don't have embedded lighting. Presumably handrails should be visible whether lighting is installed in them or not. :) I suspect the larger goal is to make sure people know that the handrail has a dual role in lighting and keeping people upright, but the current wording doesn't indicate that.
Heading text
10.1.2.1 Basic lighting considerations
Heading number portion
10.1.2.1
Item id
1774115024268_546
Heading id
heading-29
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
minimum lighting levels
What should we change it to?
consider adding a pointer to CSA/ASC B651-23 and NBC 2025, which both prescribe higher illumination levels in certain contexts.
Why should we change it?
This is one of the few areas where ASC has less stringent requirements than the NBC, so I think it would be useful to flag this distinction to a reader. I don't think you necessarily need to change your number; just make a note that NBC is stricter in this area. The relevant lines are in NBC Article 3.2.7.1. (as an FYI, NBC addresses accessibility outside of Section 3.8., which is likely why the committee missed it). In particular, service rooms, laundry areas and illumination at the level of controls that provide visual information needs to be >= 200 lx.
Heading text
10.1.2.1 Basic lighting considerations
Heading number portion
10.1.2.1
Item id
1774115792860_103
Heading id
s11.2.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clause a
What should we change it to?
state the specific CSA/ASC B651 clauses that are intended to apply (I assume 8.3.9.(b)), along with any necessary qualifiers for the intended application to ASC 2.4
Why should we change it?
if compliance with CSA/ASC B651 bollard placement is important to the committee, then the standard needs to make it as easy as possible for a reader to comply with the standard by directing the reader to the intended line. Being specific about the intended line is important because CSA B651 has different guidance on visual contrast (CSA B651 8.3.9.(a)) than ASC 2.4. 11.2.2.b, so ASC 2.4. should clarify what - exactly - they want the reader to do. Also, CSA/ASC B651 clause 8.3.9. applies to bollards adjacent to a pedestrian route, whereas ASC 2.4. specifies all bollards in paths of travel, so ASC 2.4. should be precise about which aspects of CSA it wants a reader to reference vs ignore.
Heading text
11.2.2 Bollards in paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.2
Item id
1774118064408_230
Heading id
s12.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
clause b
What should we change it to?
strike the language on "without feeling lost"
Why should we change it?
the designer has no control over how people feel - it's pretty common to feel lost when unfamiliar with an environment even when the directional signage is adequate. I appreciate the intent. The key information for a reader is "lead people to their destination and back, even if they are unfamiliar..." - this is better emphasized when one removes the "without feeling lost" piece.
Heading text
12.1 General
Heading number portion
12.1
Item id
1774118263971_534
Heading id
s12.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
consider consolidating all of the types of signage in this section into a table
What should we change it to?
consider consolidating all of the types of signage in this section into a table
Why should we change it?
each of the subclauses are purely informative, so it's a bit discombulating to see them given individual clauses like a requirement. The information will be easier to process, compare and contrast in a summary table - both the types of signs, as well as the sub-categories (e.g., prohibition or mandatory under regulatory) AND the examples of each type of sign.
Heading text
12.2 Types of signage
Heading number portion
12.2
Item id
1774118928221_927
Heading id
s12.2.9
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clause c and d
What should we change it to?
either remove them or add a major qualifier to indicate their sensitivity to the weather and maintenance - like "under dry conditions, the trail is firm. Conditions may change under rain and snow".
Why should we change it?
for outdoor unpaved trails, the firmness is completely dependent on the weather. It would be problematic for a sign to relay inaccurate information because it rained or snowed or a tree fell and park maintenance personnel haven't had a chance to clear it yet. I think this insight is useful, but needs a bit more work to align with real-world factors that are unpredictable (e.g., rain and snow + implications for trail firmness).
Heading text
12.2.9 Signs for outdoor spaces
Heading number portion
12.2.9
Item id
1774119125624_495
Heading id
s12.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clause b
What should we change it to?
consider an exception for common acronyms and abbreviations (e.g., St. for street)
Why should we change it?
When information needs to be read and processed quickly (e.g., street signs), it is more challenging for a reader when the length of the sign becomes needlessly long. Consistent use of common abbreviations is helpful in this situation, like abbreviations for street names.
Heading text
12.3 Quality of information
Heading number portion
12.3
Item id
1774119252901_285
Heading id
s12.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
consider addressing numbers and how they are depicted
What should we change it to?
consider including a requirement that numbers be written with their relevant Arabic numeral (if the sign is in a language that uses Arabic numerals), instead of writing out the full word (e.g., 1 instead of One)
Why should we change it?
numerals are faster and easier to read, and take up less space on the sign :) Also helpful for people who may not be able to read the language the sign is in.
Heading text
12.3 Quality of information
Heading number portion
12.3
Item id
1774119777515_32
Heading id
s12.6.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
note 2
What should we change it to?
consider specifying how the floor number should be displayed on handrails (did you mean for this to address tactile numbering on the underside of the handrail?)
Why should we change it?
the current wording suggests that floor numbers just need to be painted on the handrail in addition to each level. I'm not sure the same type of visual information needs to be duplicated in both places. The handrail would make sense for tactile information that supplements the visual information provided by the floor number display.
Heading text
12.6.3 Stairs
Heading number portion
12.6.3
Item id
1774120412152_404
Heading id
s12.11.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
consider restructuring to better distinguish background information from provisions for a designer to follow
What should we change it to?
consider restructuring to better distinguish background information from provisions for a designer to follow - distinguish the last sentence in some way from the preceding stuff
Why should we change it?
a reader who is skimming or tired or ... might miss the line with the word "shall". It needs to be easier to distinguish background info from design requirements.
Heading text
12.11.2 Usage
Heading number portion
12.11.2
Item id
1774120655586_931
Heading id
s15.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
move all of the publications to the "publications" section
What should we change it to?
move all of the publications to the "publications" section
Why should we change it?
There are several publications here that better fit in the publications section. Also, several of the publications below are also online resources.
Heading text
15.3 Online Resources
Heading number portion
15.3
Item id
1774120871608_883
Heading id
s15.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
correct the various document references to include full citation information, as well as correct individual author information for several of the resources that have been attributed to institutions rather than individual authors
What should we change it to?
correct the various document references to include full citation information, as well as correct individual author information for several of the resources that have been attributed to institutions rather than individual authors
Why should we change it?
Unless the report was published by the institution, academics typically publish on behalf of themselves rather than the institution. This is important because the views expressed in academic publications are those of the authors, NOT of their employer. The publications reference list should reflect this.
Heading text
15.4 Publications
Heading number portion
15.4
Item id
1774121658528_708
Heading id
s12.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
language on "soft to the touch"
What should we change it to?
consider a more precise word - something like "smooth" maybe?
Why should we change it?
tactile signs are often rigid - which, by definition, means that they aren't soft.
Heading text
12.7 Tactile signs
Heading number portion
12.7
Item id
1774122022377_679
Heading id
s12.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
consider replacing functional reach language with plain language, and note somewhere where functional reach is measured from
What should we change it to?
"Tactile signs are installed close enough to the circulation or pedestrian area so that a person can reach them from the front or side without losing their balance".
Why should we change it?
The current language needs to address where the tactile sign is located with respect to the pedestrian area (or circulation space, or wherever). Strictly speaking a sign at the other end of a corridor (indicating what room is at the other end of the corridor) would fail the "functional reach" requirement for someone who hasn't mobilized to that other end, despite being appropriately located.
Heading text
12.7 Tactile signs
Heading number portion
12.7
Item id
1774122213091_71
Heading id
s12.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
consider adding an image to show how all the elements fit together
What should we change it to?
consider adding an image to show how all the elements fit together
Why should we change it?
There are a lot of requirements here, and an image would really help a designer see how they all fit together. This will be especially helpful for clause 12.7.1(b), with helping someone understand what is meant by "be approachable within 100 mm" and what direction is intended.
Heading text
12.7 Tactile signs
Heading number portion
12.7
Item id
1774122505565_104
Heading id
s12.7.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
consolidate clauses b and d
What should we change it to?
consolidate clauses b and d - perhaps by removing the "wall-mounted" restriction on clause d
Why should we change it?
presumably if the clear area in clause d is provided, then a person using a manual and powered wheelchair can get close enough to the sign to reach it, thereby making clause b redundant
Heading text
12.7.3 Tactile signs at eye-level
Heading number portion
12.7.3
Item id
1774122668809_927
Heading id
s12.7.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
consider expanding the application of clause d (and the general goal of tactile signs being reachable) to cover the entire section on tactile signage in Clause 12.7. and not just signs at eye-level
What should we change it to?
consider expanding the application of clause d (and the general goal of tactile signs being reachable) to cover the entire section on tactile signage in Clause 12.7. and not just signs at eye-level
Why should we change it?
Presumably it's important for people who use wheeled mobility devices to be able to reach tactile signs, whether or not they are mounted at eye level. The key information for a designer is contained in clause 12.7.3.(d) - dimensions that allow someone to get close enough to the sign to reach it.
Heading text
12.7.3 Tactile signs at eye-level
Heading number portion
12.7.3
Item id
1774122889587_270
Heading id
s9.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
consider removing the definition of functional reach and the corresponding lateral and frontal reaches, and replace all instances of lateral, frontal and functional reaches in the text with the floor dimensions needed in front of a relevant sign or fixture to achieve the intended goal (in clause 12.7.3.(d))
What should we change it to?
consider removing the definition of functional reach and the corresponding lateral and frontal reaches, and replace all instances of lateral, frontal and functional reaches in the text with the floor dimensions needed in front of a relevant sign or fixture to achieve the intended goal (in clause 12.7.3.(d))
Why should we change it?
The functional / lateral / frontal reach language only appears in this standard in the context of signage. However, there is no guidance provided (outside of Clause 12.7.3.(d)) on how a designer should achieve the functional reach goals - a designer is left to guess at how to design a space for reachable signage. It will be easier for a designer to realize the goals of the standard by providing essential dimensions (e.g., clear space in front of the sign), and maybe use a note to explain why those dimensions are there (e.g., "the purpose of the clear floor space in front of the sign is to allow people to reach the sign from the front or side while seated or standing, and read tactile features without losing their balance"). If the committee disagrees with striking the definitions of functional/lateral/frontal reach altogether and providing a designer with the critical dimensions and design features to achieve the goals, then the suggestions above will help clarify the various dimensions.
Heading text
9.1 Definitions
Heading number portion
9.1
Item id
1774123090697_536
Heading id
s12.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clause c
What should we change it to?
split this up so that the need for graphical symbols and pictograms are not restricted to signs installed within lateral or frontal reach
Why should we change it?
graphical symbols and pictograms are useful on all signage, not just signage installed within a reachable distance from the pedestrian surface
Heading text
12.1 General
Heading number portion
12.1
Item id
1774123502811_120
Heading id
s12.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clause c
What should we change it to?
for the elements related to tactile text and braille, use plain language - "when the sign is reachable from the front and side from the pedestrian path" or "when the sign is installed X height above and Y distance from the stance surface"
Why should we change it?
reachable lateral and frontal distances will vary for individuals, which aren't known before the sign is installed. Prescribing dimensions will be a lot more helpful to a designer who is trying to achieve the "functional reach" goal.
Heading text
12.1 General
Heading number portion
12.1
Item id
1774123666056_549
Heading id
s12.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clause d
What should we change it to?
consider giving more guidance on appropriate lateral and frontal reach distance (e.g., minimum clear floor area in front of the sign, per clause 12.7.3.(d))
Why should we change it?
lateral and frontal reach are unlikely to be known in advance by a designer who has no lived experience with the concept. It will be easier to achieve the intended goal if you prescribe a minimum clear floor area in front of the permanent sign that allows the functional reach goal to be met by adults and children from seated and standing positions.
Heading text
12.8 Braille
Heading number portion
12.8
Item id
1774123842223_688
Heading id
s12.7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
clause b
What should we change it to?
consider adding a bit more specificity on the intent of "approachable within 100 mm" - e.g., prescribe a clear floor area that needs to be provided within 100 mm of the sign, similar to the wall mounted sign requirements below in Clause 12.7.3.(d)
Why should we change it?
the goal is to allow someone to get within 100 mm of the sign. The relevant dimensions are different based on whether you're approaching from the side or front, and based on the type of mobility device (if any) that you're using. A bit more clarity here on dimensions that allow a designer to achieve the goal will be helpful.
Heading text
12.7.1 Tactile sign design and build elements
Heading number portion
12.7.1
Item id
1774195938002_8
Heading id
s0
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
n/a - big-picture comments
What should we change it to?
n/a - big-picture comments
Why should we change it?
Congratulations to the entire technical committee for bringing this draft standard together. I read it with great interest and have made a few suggestions within to help support implementation, use and clarity. The most major big-picture suggestions that I think will help designers are: 1) Consider creating a guidance document or note to explain how / where this standard differs from CSA/ASC B651-23. Major portions of this standard duplicate the information of CSA/ASC B651-23, but in different formatting and arrangement of information. This creates confusion for designers, who would need to review both documents and piece together where the distinctions are for designing a building and its systems. Where requirements in this standard are aligned with CSA/ASC B651-23, consider just referencing relevant CSA/ASC B651-23 clauses (or noting somewhere obvious that the two requirements are the same) - less reading and opportunity for confusion for a reader. Otherwise, a list of different or additional requirements in this standard will help designers with reconciling the differences. 2) There are many important design considerations in this standard, but it's difficult to visualize how they all fit together. Images in the standard will help designers to understand the intent of the committee and realize the goals of the standard.
Heading text
1. Accessibility Standards Canada: About us
Heading number portion
1.
Submission ID
64669
Submitted by
Vicki.Komisar@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Submitted on
Sun, 03/22/2026 - 12:19
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64707's submission

CAN-ASC-2.4 – Wayfinding and Signage
Feedback items
Item id
1770133546959_284
Heading id
s6.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
In addition, the advancement of technological solutions for signage and wayfinding has been included in the standard to allow its users to understand what must be considered when making technological choices that may benefit persons with disabilities as they navigate indoor or outdoor environments.
What should we change it to?
Remove it, or add the content this sentence describes.
Why should we change it?
There is nothing in the standard about technological wayfinding solutions such as QR codes, RFID tags, nor related software/app solutions.
Heading text
6.1 Background
Heading number portion
6.1
Item id
1770133710094_833
Heading id
s7.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Technological Solutions
What should we change it to?
Add examples such as use of QR codes NFC, and RFID tags.
Why should we change it?
unclear what "technological solutions" refers to, and draft standard does not include use of QR codes NFC, and RFID tags.
Heading text
7.2 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.2
Item id
1770133820772_105
Heading id
s7.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Principles for the application of new and emerging technologies
What should we change it to?
include locations in the draft standard, because searching the document for "technologies" and "emerging" there does not to be any content.
Why should we change it?
unclear what "new and emerging technologies" refers to, and draft standard does not include use of QR codes NFC, and RFID tags. Searching the document for "technologies" and "emerging" there does not to be any content.
Heading text
7.2 Inclusions
Heading number portion
7.2
Submission ID
64707
Submitted by
adam.worobec@cra-arc.gc.ca
Submitted on
Fri, 02/06/2026 - 13:08
Consent to contact
Yes

Individual 64729's submission

CAN-ASC-2.4 – Wayfinding and Signage
Feedback items
Item id
1770305950505_723
Heading id
s10.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
An eye condition can also affect a person's lighting needs.
What should we change it to?
An eye condition can also affect a person's lighting needs. Lighting also impacts people who having hearing limitations as they need to see for lip reading or seeing signed language.
Why should we change it?
More accurately portrays the individuals impacted by lighting factors.
Heading text
10.1 Lighting
Heading number portion
10.1
Item id
1770306028942_966
Heading id
s10.1.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Exterior lighting shall:
What should we change it to?
When facilities are operational, exterior lighting shall:
Why should we change it?
This should be specific to facilities only when they are operating/open for use. Having darkness at night is important in natural areas. Lighting 24/7 disrupts wildlife.
Heading text
10.1.5 Exterior lighting
Heading number portion
10.1.5
Item id
1770306130369_140
Heading id
s10.1.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
a) 50 lx and c) 100 lx and d) 50 lx
What should we change it to?
Specify minimum lighting levels. Current wording requires exactly 50 or 100 lx.
Why should we change it?
Maintaining exactly 50 lx or 100 lx can be difficult in outdoor environments.
Heading text
10.1.5 Exterior lighting
Heading number portion
10.1.5
Item id
1770306321050_235
Heading id
s11.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
General comments on the overall standard or a section such as things that are missing
What should we change?
Effective wayfinding enables individuals to:
What should we change it to?
Effective wayfinding enables individuals to discover and use destinations and services independently by allowing them to:
Why should we change it?
Independent access is critically important and specified within legislation. It should be highlighted as a key function of wayfinding that is accomplished by the other means stated.
Heading text
11.1 General
Heading number portion
11.1
Item id
1770306556617_421
Heading id
s11.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Use of the term "extensive areas" in the Wayfinding requirements.
What should we change it to?
Replace "extensive areas" with a term that limits the application to buildings and highly developed areas or include a definition of "extensive areas" that clarifies its meaning.
Why should we change it?
This is the only section of the standard that uses the term “extensive areas”. It is not in the definitions or in other sections of the standard. The application of these wayfinding requirements to “extensive areas” is vague and not appropriate for a wide variety of outdoor spaces. I would expect that a national park would be an “extensive area” as would a “sports field” or a campground. The installation of tactile direction indicators throughout a national park or campground, across/around sports fields (and many other examples) would be inappropriate.
Heading text
11.1 General
Heading number portion
11.1
Item id
1770306805854_519
Heading id
s11.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
comply with CSA/ASC B651:23;
What should we change it to?
for buildings comply with CSA/ASC B651:23 and for outdoor spaces comply with ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces.
Why should we change it?
The ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces was specifically developed for outdoor paths of travel. Application of the built environment standard (B651) to natural areas (e.g., National Parks) is inappropriate.
Heading text
11.2.1 Obstacles on paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.1
Item id
1770306900048_98
Heading id
s11.2.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
not have wayfinding or signage elements obstruct the path of travel in accordance with CSA/ASC B651:23
What should we change it to?
for buildings not have wayfinding or signage elements obstruct the path of travel in accordance with CSA/ASC B651:23 and for outdoor spaces not have wayfinding or signage elements obstruct the path of travel in accordance with the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces.
Why should we change it?
The ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces was specifically developed for outdoor paths of travel. Application of the built environment standard (B651) to natural areas (e.g., National Parks) is inappropriate.
Heading text
11.2.1 Obstacles on paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.1
Item id
1770307007558_761
Heading id
s11.2.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be placed in accordance with CSA/ASC B651:23
What should we change it to?
For buildings be placed in accordance with CSA/ASC B651:23 and for outdoor spaces be placed in accordance with the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces.
Why should we change it?
The ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces was specifically developed for all outdoor paths of travel, in built environments and remote locations. Requiring the building environment standard (B651) in all outdoor spaces is not appropriate.
Heading text
11.2.2 Bollards in paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.2
Item id
1770307221966_342
Heading id
s11.2.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
avoid being placed in a triangular or U-shape arrangement as they present a barrier for wheeled mobility devices
What should we change it to?
Remove this specification.
Why should we change it?
This is erroneous information. The arrangement of the bollards doesn’t affect the accessibility - it is the space between the bollards and the available turning or maneuvering space that matters. The design and placement of bollards, guards, curbs, etc. for outdoor spaces are covered in the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces.
Heading text
11.2.2 Bollards in paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.2
Item id
1770307398589_403
Heading id
s11.2.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
The specifications provided for bollards in the path of travel should be limited to those that impact wayfinding and that are not covered by the ASC Standards for the Built Environment or Outdoor Spaces.
What should we change it to?
Remove all design and placement requirements covered by other standards.
Why should we change it?
Conflicting requirements in different standards will make them all unenforceable.
Heading text
11.2.2 Bollards in paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.2
Item id
1770307560935_604
Heading id
s11.2.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Note 1 should be a requirement not an advisory note.
What should we change it to?
Change e to read "have a consistent profile throughout their height from ground level.:
Why should we change it?
If bollards have a consistent profile throughout their height from ground level then they will have ground level detection and plinths/tapping rails/etc. will not be required as they would not be wider at the top than at ground level. This simplifies the requirement and mandates a consistent bollard profile (which is important).
Heading text
11.2.2 Bollards in paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.2.2
Item id
1770309103774_56
Heading id
s11.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Walking surfaces of interior and exterior paths of travel in the built environment shall:
What should we change it to?
Walking surfaces of exterior paths of travel shall comply with the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces. Walking surfaces of interior paths of travel shall:
Why should we change it?
Exterior paths of travel are not only outside of a building. There are many other exterior paths of travel in outdoor spaces, such as paths to beaches, playgrounds, amphitheaters, fishing piers, etc. and many other facilities in outdoor spaces. All exterior paths of travel have existing requirements in the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces. Conflicting requirements between standards will render all of them unenforceable.
Heading text
11.3 Walking surfaces of interior and exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3
Item id
1770309215434_238
Heading id
s11.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be firm, stable, slip resistant
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement as it is specified in the ASC standards for the built environment.
Why should we change it?
While firm/stable/slip resistant are important accessibility factors, they do not impact wayfinding. This standard should be confined to wayfinding factors, such as busy patterns, texture, glare, etc.
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11.3 Walking surfaces of interior and exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3
Item id
1770309386456_201
Heading id
s11.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
slip resistant
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement.
Why should we change it?
As indicated in Annex A, there is no accepted procedure for measuring slip resistance and therefore there cannot be a specification of what slip resistance is required for accessibility. Slip resistance is definitely a goal from a safety perspective, but creating a standard where compliance cannot be determined makes it unenforceable and casts doubt on the quality of the work in developing the Standard.
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11.3 Walking surfaces of interior and exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3
Item id
1770309604672_371
Heading id
s11.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
support orientation and wayfinding at critical navigation points through additional illumination, increased visual contrast, and tactile elements,
What should we change it to?
support orientation and wayfinding at critical navigation points through additional illumination, increased visual contrast, or tactile elements,
Why should we change it?
This requirement is not feasible for outdoor paths of travel (see earlier comment that outdoor paths of travel shall comply with the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces). For indoor paths of travel, there does not appear to be any justification for needing additional illumination and increased visual contrast and tactile elements. In indoor environments, wayfinding at critical navigation points should be established through the combination of additional illumination, increased visual contrast and/or tactile elements so that designers can utilize the techniques that are most suitable for the specific environment.
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11.3 Walking surfaces of interior and exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3
Item id
1770309887749_871
Heading id
s11.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Delete the entire section except for a) iii and a) v and a re-worded a) iv.
What should we change it to?
Paved exterior paths of travel shall: a) incorporate distinctive surface materials, such as tiles, at intersections or key decision points in outdoor plazas to help users identify critical areas and make informed navigation choices; b) include two white transverse lines bordering the crosswalk (for all crosswalks); and c) be simple and facilitate safe street crossings that are not impacted by the colour, design, imagery, texture or materials used to enhance aesthetics. Note 1: Architectural elements may be included to help maintain visibility of wayfinding and signage elements during different seasons. Note 2: Decorative crosswalks should be avoided across roadways that have high volumes of traffic or a high percentage of truck traffic, or both, specifically, major and minor arterial roadways.
Why should we change it?
All other appropriate points in a and b are addressed in the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces. Exterior paths of travel exist far beyond cities and towns, which is why they have been addressed through a separate standard.
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11.3.1 Additional specifications for exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3.1
Item id
1770310068731_509
Heading id
s11.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Remove all specifications related to multi-user facilities (here and throughout the standard).
What should we change it to?
Remove all specifications related to multi-user facilities (here and throughout the standard).
Why should we change it?
The separation of cycling and pedestrian infrastructure is a safety issue, but it does not affect the accessibility of wayfinding systems. Establishing such requirements will prevent the development of shared use facilities, even where it is entirely appropriate (e.g., allowing pedestrians to walk or ski on mountain bike trails).
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11.3.1 Additional specifications for exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3.1
Item id
1770310161229_931
Heading id
s11.3.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be simple and not interfere with orientation or safe street crossings when used in decorative crosswalks, including elements such as colour, design, imagery, texture, or material that enhance aesthetics beyond standard crosswalk treatments;
What should we change it to?
be simple and facilitate safe street crossings that are not impacted by the colour, design, imagery, texture or materials used to enhance aesthetics.
Why should we change it?
More clearly explains the requirement relative to wayfinding.
Heading text
11.3.1 Additional specifications for exterior paths of travel
Heading number portion
11.3.1
Item id
1770310769244_974
Heading id
heading-50
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be placed in areas lacking constructed or natural navigation cues
What should we change it to?
be placed in areas inside buildings lacking constructed or natural navigation cues
Why should we change it?
Without specifying that this requirement applies to buildings it creates a requirement for TWSIs to be installed on sports fields, group campgrounds, etc. and other outdoor spaces where such surfaces would be inappropriate (not to mention not feasible).
Heading text
11.4.1.1 General requirements
Heading number portion
11.4.1.1
Item id
1770310930642_705
Heading id
heading-50
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
b. be arranged in a clear and structured sequence, with defined start and end points, marking intersections, decision points, or potential hazards along the way; c. be of enough depth in the direction of travel to provide adequate detectability and appropriate response by the users, such as stopping and turning; d. have their starting point well-defined and easily identifiable, aligning with constructed and natural navigation cues;
What should we change it to?
b. be arranged in a clear and structured sequence, with well-defined start and end points that are easily identifiable, marking intersections, decision points, or potential hazards along the way; c. be of enough depth in the direction of travel to provide adequate detectability and appropriate response by the users, such as stopping and turning; d. be aligned with constructed and natural navigation cues;
Why should we change it?
Remove redundance of specifying "defined" and "well-defined" starting points.
Heading text
11.4.1.1 General requirements
Heading number portion
11.4.1.1
Item id
1770311047528_762
Heading id
heading-51
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
feature a slip-resistant surface (see Annex A).
What should we change it to?
Remove the requirement for slip resistance.
Why should we change it?
As explained in Annex A, there is no accepted way to measure slip resistance. Nor is there research to define what amount of slip resistance is enough to provide accessibility. As such, a slip resistance standard is not enforceable and creates a requirement that can never be met.
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11.4.1.2 TWSI detection
Heading number portion
11.4.1.2
Item id
1770311141263_177
Heading id
heading-53
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
or provide guidance at intersecting points in a path
What should we change it to?
Remove this text/requirement.
Why should we change it?
Attention indicators should not be used to provide guidance at intersecting points. They should only be used to identify hazards. Directional indicators should be used to provide guidance if needed. The use of attention indicators to convey information about situations that are not a hazard is a widely recognized problem with current accessibility efforts.
Heading text
11.4.2.1 General
Heading number portion
11.4.2.1
Item id
1770311337535_353
Heading id
heading-53
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
In outdoor environments, cast iron is a durable material which doesn’t create glare and provides contrast.
What should we change it to?
Specify whether the cast iron material is sufficient to provide recognition even if it is black with little colour contrast with the surrounding surface or whether it also has to have the truncated domes and/or be yellow (if that is possible/available).
Why should we change it?
Current note is not clear as to whether black cast iron alone is recommended even if it does not have truncated domes.
Heading text
11.4.2.1 General
Heading number portion
11.4.2.1
Item id
1770311509013_205
Heading id
heading-54
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
an attention indicator shall be at the following locations:
What should we change it to?
an attention indicator shall be installed to identify when a hazard exists at the following locations:
Why should we change it?
Attention indicators should indicate a hazard situation. Requiring an attention indicator at the top of ramp that has only a slight incline compared to the approaching floor is not a hazard in the way the edge of stairs or transit platform is.
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11.4.2.2 Location
Heading number portion
11.4.2.2
Item id
1770311670819_807
Heading id
heading-54
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
at landings longer than 2,100 mm where there are no continuous handrails.
What should we change it to?
Remove the requirement.
Why should we change it?
It is not apparent why a long landing without handrails a hazard. I can see that direction indicators may be required, but I don’t see the hazard. Why would a 2,099mm landing without handrails be safe but a 2,101mm landing without handrails be a hazard? It is critically important that attention indicators only be used to identify hazards. The use of truncated domes for location identification, etc. is causing huge problems because the meaning of these devices becomes unclear.
Heading text
11.4.2.2 Location
Heading number portion
11.4.2.2
Item id
1770311909317_21
Heading id
heading-54
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
b. In outdoor spaces:
What should we change it to?
b. In outdoor spaces comply with the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces.
Why should we change it?
The requirements for outdoor spaces are already specified in the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces. Creating different specifications in different standards makes all of them unenforceable.
Heading text
11.4.2.2 Location
Heading number portion
11.4.2.2
Item id
1770312025589_710
Heading id
heading-54
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
c. Paved and unprotected drop-off edge where:
What should we change it to?
c. Indoor paved and unprotected drop-off edge where:
Why should we change it?
The protection of drop-off edges (paved and unpaved) in outdoor spaces is specified in the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces.
Heading text
11.4.2.2 Location
Heading number portion
11.4.2.2
Item id
1770312084248_927
Heading id
heading-54
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Curb ramps and depressed curbs.
What should we change it to?
Curb ramps and depressed curbs as required by the ASC Standard on Outdoor Spaces.
Why should we change it?
Prevents duplicate and differing requirements in different Standards.
Heading text
11.4.2.2 Location
Heading number portion
11.4.2.2
Item id
1770312160348_265
Heading id
heading-54
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Where there is a change in direction within a tactile guidance path using direction indicators.
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement.
Why should we change it?
This also should not be an attention indicator - there are directional indicators (i.e., raised bars) that indicate the change in direction. Unless there is a hazard, attention indicators should not used, much less required.
Heading text
11.4.2.2 Location
Heading number portion
11.4.2.2
Item id
1770312230804_606
Heading id
heading-54
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Where an amenity is present along a tactile path to aid in identification.
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement.
Why should we change it?
This should not be an attention indicator (another example of how using attention indicators when there is no hazard creates confusion and inhibits wayfinding). Direction indicators can be used for this purpose, as can different surface materials and other strategies.
Heading text
11.4.2.2 Location
Heading number portion
11.4.2.2
Item id
1770312327094_957
Heading id
heading-56
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Differing standards for integrated and discrete units.
What should we change it to?
The same standard for light reflectance that is required for accessibility.
Why should we change it?
The same standard for light reflectance that is required for accessibility should be specified regardless of the unit used to provide the luminance.
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11.4.2.4 Luminance contrast
Heading number portion
11.4.2.4
Item id
1770312429936_245
Heading id
heading-58
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
or set at a 45°
What should we change it to?
Remove this option
Why should we change it?
To my knowledge, the 45-degree alignment is no longer acceptable because it forces people using mobility devices to travel over the bumps. The parallel alignment is designed so that the wheels of a mobility device can travel in between the domes.
Heading text
11.4.2.5.1 Arrangements of a single plate
Heading number portion
11.4.2.5.1
Item id
1770312552352_722
Heading id
s11.4.2.5.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
have a top diameter between 12 mm and 25 mm
What should we change it to?
have a top diameter between 12 mm and 15 mm
Why should we change it?
Although the 25 mm is the current standard, why allow it in the future if research indicates that a 12 mm top diameter is what is needed for the best accessibility.
Heading text
11.4.2.5.3 Dome diameter
Heading number portion
11.4.2.5.3
Item id
1770312614019_341
Heading id
heading-62
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be installed cross the full width of the hazard when used as hazard indicators
What should we change it to?
be installed cross the full width of the hazard
Why should we change it?
Attention indicators should never be used for anything other than as hazard indicators.
Heading text
11.4.2.5.5 Dimensions of attention indicators
Heading number portion
11.4.2.5.5
Item id
1770312836204_804
Heading id
heading-64
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
In large or open spaces, a tactile pathway or guiding line for navigation is required
What should we change it to?
In large or open spaces within a building or building complex, a tactile pathway or guiding line for navigation is required
Why should we change it?
National parks, group campgrounds, sports fields, etc. are all examples of large open spaces where these requirements would not be appropriate. The requirement should be limited to spaces within buildings or a complex of buildings (e.g., the patio between a group of condo buildings). Requirements for outdoor spaces should be in the ASC Standard for Outdoor Spaces.
Heading text
11.4.3.1 General
Heading number portion
11.4.3.1
Item id
1770312981367_268
Heading id
heading-64
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Note 1: Direction indicators are recommended for safety and guidance in outdoor environments.
What should we change it to?
Note 1: Direction indicators are recommended for safety and guidance in the outdoor environments surround a complex of buildings.
Why should we change it?
Direction indicators are not appropriate for all outdoor environments as they cannot be maintained or routinely inspected to ensure they have not shifted or been damaged. There are also much better options for providing direction information in rural/remote outdoor environments. The standard should not restrict the use of more effective design options.
Heading text
11.4.3.1 General
Heading number portion
11.4.3.1
Item id
1770313079038_17
Heading id
heading-68
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Note 3: Excessive height beyond the required level for effective detectability may increase the risk of tripping.
What should we change it to?
Remove this note.
Why should we change it?
This comment doesn’t make sense. If the bars have the same sloped sides as truncated domes, why would they be a tripping hazard and not the domes (which are much taller than 4-5 mm)? Additionally, a height of 4-5 mm is less than the differentiation of many outdoor surfaces, and therefore no more of a hazard (and virtually undetectable).
Heading text
11.4.3.3.2 Height of bars
Heading number portion
11.4.3.3.2
Item id
1770313202311_253
Heading id
s12.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
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;
What should we change it to?
Remove or clarify who is qualified to do this work.
Why should we change it?
While I fully understand and support the purpose of this requirement, in my consulting career I have made a lot of money fixing accessibility problems that land managers created because of one loud voice that was demanding a certain accommodation. Having someone ask a random individual to test an audible or visual sign is not helpful. That person may hear the audible sign but most other people may not, for example. This clause needs to be removed as it is a burden that will add nothing in terms of accessibility unless it can be written in a way that ensures that the people doing the testing are able to confirm usability and clarity for the intended range of users (not just their personal preference).
Heading text
12.1 General
Heading number portion
12.1
Item id
1770313372668_499
Heading id
s12.2.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
for signs intended to be read by pedestrians, include tactile characters and braille in
What should we change it to?
for signs intended to be read by pedestrians, include tactile characters alone or in conjunction with braille in
Why should we change it?
Individuals who read Braille are a very small (and shrinking) proportion of the population of people with limited vision. Those who can read braille can also detect tactile characters, but most people who would benefit from tactile characters cannot read braille.
Heading text
12.2.8 Requirements for different types of signage
Heading number portion
12.2.8
Item id
1770313482036_799
Heading id
s12.2.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
identification signs mandatory signs; and warning signs;
What should we change it to?
identification signs regulatory signs; and warning signs;
Why should we change it?
In 12.2 you have specified 7 types of sign. This specification should relate to the specified types of signs (12.2 does not mention "mandatory signs").
Heading text
12.2.8 Requirements for different types of signage
Heading number portion
12.2.8
Item id
1770313612394_453
Heading id
s12.2.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
for signs intended to be read by pedestrians, include tactile characters
What should we change it to?
for signs intended to be read by pedestrians, include audible sign technologies or tactile characters
Why should we change it?
Audible technologies are much more accessible to more people than either tactile characters or braille. They should be an option that is not only permitted but encouraged.
Heading text
12.2.8 Requirements for different types of signage
Heading number portion
12.2.8
Item id
1770313705744_940
Heading id
s12.2.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
when installed outdoors, be placed in a location that does not intrude into the path of travel
What should we change it to?
be placed in a location that does not intrude into the path of travel
Why should we change it?
Why only outdoors? Shouldn’t signs in buildings also not block the path of travel?
Heading text
12.2.8 Requirements for different types of signage
Heading number portion
12.2.8
Item id
1770313871277_816
Heading id
s12.2.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be placed in a location that does not intrude into the path of travel
What should we change it to?
be placed in a location that does not reduce accessibility and is appropriate to the intended effect of the sign
Why should we change it?
Signs such as “wet floor” or hazard warning signs (e.g., radioactive area) that are meant to block the path of travel need to be permitted. Otherwise, we have to rely on someone reading a nearby sign to know they cannot enter a hazardous area.
Heading text
12.2.8 Requirements for different types of signage
Heading number portion
12.2.8
Item id
1770314359209_966
Heading id
s12.2.9
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
12.2.9 Signs for outdoor spaces
What should we change it to?
12.2.9 Trailhead signs for outdoor spaces
Why should we change it?
This is not “signs for outdoor spaces”. These are specifically trailhead signs that convey accessibility information about the trail environment. There are many other signs in outdoor spaces that would have different requirements.
Heading text
12.2.9 Signs for outdoor spaces
Heading number portion
12.2.9
Item id
1770314455669_296
Heading id
s12.2.9
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
12.2.9 Signs for outdoor spaces
What should we change it to?
The section should specify the requirements for signs (other than trailhead signs) in outdoor spaces.
Why should we change it?
The signs themselves are similar in design to the built environment requirements, but the placement and requirement for sign installation needs to be different for many outdoor spaces (including National Parks, remote outdoor locations, etc.).
Heading text
12.2.9 Signs for outdoor spaces
Heading number portion
12.2.9
Item id
1770314571091_534
Heading id
s12.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
where there is an established need.
What should we change it to?
Remove this text.
Why should we change it?
The requirement for accessibility should never be dependent on "an established need". That is contrary to the intent of the legislation. It is also not appropriate for a Standard to specify a requirement (shall) in conjunction with an option (where there is an established need).
Heading text
12.3 Quality of information
Heading number portion
12.3
Item id
1770314693468_946
Heading id
s12.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
allow for side-by-side format, one language may appear above the other which is known as over-under format. Whether side-by-side or over-under format, both languages should be presented equally in all respects
What should we change it to?
allow for side-by-side format, languages may appear one above the others which is known as over-under format. Whether side-by-side or over-under format, all languages should be presented equally in all respects
Why should we change it?
Many of our national parks have signs in English, French and the local indigenous language. The requirement should be suitable for more than two languages.
Heading text
12.3 Quality of information
Heading number portion
12.3
Item id
1770318807717_55
Heading id
s12.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Motion sensors or QR codes that trigger an audio recording of the information and other technologies that automatically read aloud text are examples of valid options that may be used.
What should we change it to?
Clarify what these may be used for. If they are included as alternative communication methods why are they not in c?
Why should we change it?
Why would you still require other formats if these technologies are used and more accessible?
Heading text
12.3 Quality of information
Heading number portion
12.3
Item id
1770318943804_223
Heading id
s12.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
200 lx
What should we change it to?
100 lx
Why should we change it?
Brighter illumination in low light conditions can make it harder to see/read because of the adjustment of the eyes to drastically different lighting. This requirement is also far too bright to be a requirement in remote or dark sky areas.
Heading text
12.4 Configuration
Heading number portion
12.4
Item id
1770319179997_8
Heading id
s12.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be produced using materials that are durable and resistant to wear or vandalism
What should we change it to?
be produced using materials that will continue to meet accessibility requirements throughout the anticipated life cycle
Why should we change it?
The materials selected will be specific to the setting, environment, anticipated use, etc. Signs in remote backcountry areas of National Parks are unlikely to need to be resistant to vandalism if you have to hike for 7 days to get to them, for example. The Standard needs to specify what is required for accessibility (that the sign continue to function properly). The design of how that is accomplished should not be restricted so designs can be suitable to the environment and intended use and so that better solutions can be used as they are developed.
Heading text
12.4 Configuration
Heading number portion
12.4
Item id
1770319286297_581
Heading id
s12.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
In such cases the messages should be prioritized
What should we change it to?
Specify what is meant by "in such cases".
Why should we change it?
Statement is unclear.
Heading text
12.4 Configuration
Heading number portion
12.4
Item id
1770319367258_494
Heading id
s12.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Note 1: For signs, the most visible colours are white or yellow on a black, charcoal or other dark background, such as brown, dark blue, dark green or purple.
What should we change it to?
Revise to align with a)
Why should we change it?
a) states not to use yellow, blue and green and the note says these are appropriate combinations.
Heading text
12.5 Colour contrast
Heading number portion
12.5
Item id
1770319525629_254
Heading id
s12.6.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
for outdoor toilet facilities
What should we change it to?
for outdoor toilet facilities with walls
Why should we change it?
You cannot require a sign on pit toilets that don’t have walls (e.g., boom boxes). This requirement does not work for more remote outdoor spaces.
Heading text
12.6.1 Location of signs
Heading number portion
12.6.1
Item id
1770319602016_901
Heading id
s12.6.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
For example, at trail intersections the signage can be in advance of the intersection, located to the right at a fixed height above the ground.
What should we change it to?
For example, at trail intersections it may be possible to position the signage consistently in advance of the intersection, located to the right at a fixed height above the ground.
Why should we change it?
While this type of consistency enhances accessibility, it is not always feasible (if there is a cliff on the right side of the trail for example.
Heading text
12.6.1 Location of signs
Heading number portion
12.6.1
Item id
1770325563808_260
Heading id
s12.6.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
as well as on handrails
What should we change it to?
Be more specific as it is unclear.
Why should we change it?
This needs to be more specific. I can see designers unfamiliar with accessibility mounting an 8x10 metal sign “on” the handrail which would be a hazard.
Heading text
12.6.3 Stairs
Heading number portion
12.6.3
Item id
1770325668143_361
Heading id
s12.7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
include an alternative communication method, such as audible technology, braille or large print booklets
What should we change it to?
This clause is well-written. This requirement should be made consistent throughout the entire Standard.
Why should we change it?
This is well written - but contrasts and is not consistent with other statements throughout the Standard that mandate tactile and braille but exclude other technologies.
Heading text
12.7.1 Tactile sign design and build elements
Heading number portion
12.7.1
Item id
1770325711514_704
Heading id
s12.7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
when the sign’s location makes providing tactile elements impractical or unsafe;
What should we change it to?
when the sign’s location makes providing tactile elements impractical;
Why should we change it?
Tactile signs should NEVER be put in unsafe locations.
Heading text
12.7.1 Tactile sign design and build elements
Heading number portion
12.7.1
Item id
1770325872520_364
Heading id
s12.7.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be produced using materials that are durable and resistant to wear or vandalism; and be applied (attached, secured, mounted, adhered) using materials that are durable and resistant to wear or vandalism.
What should we change it to?
be produced using materials that are durable to ensure that the tactile sign continues to comply with accessibility requirements throughout the sign's expect life cycle.
Why should we change it?
The choice of material is not an accessibility requirement - what is required is that the sign be maintained in a usable condition. If local conditions require that an inexpensive, paper sign be put up every day rather than a permanent sign that should be permitted if it achieves the accessibility objective.
Heading text
12.7.1 Tactile sign design and build elements
Heading number portion
12.7.1
Item id
1770325960628_24
Heading id
s12.7.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
have a slight elevation above the background of the sign, measuring between 0.8 and 1.5 mm
What should we change it to?
The specified height range should be higher for outdoor areas where individuals may have to be wearing gloves.
Why should we change it?
Enable use of tactile characters in cold northern climates where it is not safe to exposure skin.
Heading text
12.7.4 Tactile characters
Heading number portion
12.7.4
Item id
1770326151396_627
Heading id
s12.7.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be accompanied by an equivalent description in braille for all raised text characters, pictograms, or symbols, including arrows on directional signs
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement.
Why should we change it?
Why is braille needed in addition to tactile characters? Can individuals who read braille not also access tactile characters? 12.8 specifies the only types of signs that require braille - which directly conflicts with this requirement (and others).
Heading text
12.7.4 Tactile characters
Heading number portion
12.7.4
Item id
1770326309253_429
Heading id
s12.8
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
These include orientation signs, such as directories; directional signs, such as wall-mounted signs with arrows, and identification signs, such as washroom signs
What should we change it to?
These include orientation signs, such as directories; identification signs, such as washroom signs, regulatory signs, such as no smoking, and warning signs, such as area closed for cleaning.
Why should we change it?
All of the types of signs are defined in 12.2. This clause should reference the identified types of signs. 12.2 does not mention directional signs. It is also difficult to understand why braille would not be required on regulatory and warning signs.
Heading text
12.8 Braille
Heading number portion
12.8
Item id
1770326487910_899
Heading id
s12.11.1
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
be tested by people with various abilities to find the right amount of time needed
What should we change it to?
Have a viewing time according to the amount of text or length of the message as specified in the table. (add table)
Why should we change it?
I understand the intent by requiring testing by people with disabilities but as written this is not an enforceable requirement. At minimum, it needs to specify who the people are doing the testing and approval (i.e., training, range of abilities considered, etc. However a better alternative would be to use existing data on reading speeds to create a table of viewing times related to the number of words/characters (similar to viewing distances and character height).
Heading text
12.11.1 General
Heading number portion
12.11.1
Item id
1770326891347_100
Heading id
s12.11.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
include features that allow remote activation and programming to adapt to changing circumstances, such as next stop alert systems on transit vehicles and queuing wait times at customer service hubs.
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement.
Why should we change it?
The technical capability for remote activation and programming should not be a requirement for all electronic and digital signs. Many signs will not not require these functions.
Heading text
12.11.3 Design and installation
Heading number portion
12.11.3
Item id
1770327038407_563
Heading id
s12.11.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
account for
What should we change it to?
Electronic and digital signage design and installation shall provide clear, accessible communication regardless of variations in: i. noise level and time-of-day traffic considerations; ii. proximity to reflections by ambient lighting; iii. proximity to reflective acoustic surfaces; iv. proximity to physical obstacles to access within the built indoor or outdoor environment; v, direct placement in the path of sunlight; and vi. installation considerations for indoor built environments (i.e., lighting and visual contrast).
Why should we change it?
"account for" is not suitable wording for a requirement. How does one “account for” these things? Simply make a memo that the designer thought about it? One could “account for” noise level, for example, but not necessarily in a way that maintains accessibility.
Heading text
12.11.3 Design and installation
Heading number portion
12.11.3
Item id
1770327490920_143
Heading id
s12.11.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
favour models that allow for video brightness settings to be adjusted
What should we change it to?
enable video brightness settings to be adjusted
Why should we change it?
A standard that states "shall" is an absolute requirement. It is incompatible with terms such as "favour", "if possible", or "where appropriate". If accessibility requires video brightness settings to automatically adjust, then the above suggestion should be used. If the Standard is simply recommending (or favouring) models that allow automatic adjustment then the standard wording would be: Electronic and digital signage illumination design should prioritize models that allow for video brightness settings to be adjusted automatically ...
Heading text
12.11.4 Illumination
Heading number portion
12.11.4
Item id
1770327628624_101
Heading id
s12.11.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
include a backlight feature
What should we change it to?
Remove the design specification for a backlight feature
Why should we change it?
The accessibility requirement is for the specified contrast and visibility to be provided. How that is achieved is not an accessibility issue, the accessibility issue is that the required contrast is achieved. Designers should be able to use whatever technologies are appropriate to achieve the accessibility outcomes. It is quite possible that there are or will be soon much better technologies for achieving contrast and visibility than backlighting. Do not write a standard that prevents people from providing better accessibility options as they develop.
Heading text
12.11.4 Illumination
Heading number portion
12.11.4
Item id
1770327682360_164
Heading id
s12.11.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
favour display technologies such as LED displays that economize on electricity consumption
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement.
Why should we change it?
Although energy conservation is a laudable goal, it is outside of the scope of a signage and wayfinding standard for accessibility.
Heading text
12.11.4 Illumination
Heading number portion
12.11.4
Item id
1770327889764_446
Heading id
s12.11.4
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Note 2: ... Pixel pitch will dictate the best viewing distance when accessing on-screen information.
What should we change it to?
If pixel pitch determines the accessible viewing distance then this should not be a note. There should be a requirement that specifies the pixel pitch to be used depending on the viewing distance. Create a table of viewing distances with the required pixel pitch.
Why should we change it?
If pixel pitch must be specified according to viewing distance, then there should be a standard (not a note) that specifies the pixel pitch required for accessibility at different viewing distances.
Heading text
12.11.4 Illumination
Heading number portion
12.11.4
Item id
1770328165145_26
Heading id
s12.11.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
have protective coatings or lenses installed on the display surfaces of electronic and digital signs, whether used indoors or outdoors, to promote durability, protect against impact, minimize the impact of weathering, and ensure clear visibility and perception in varying lighting and environmental conditions;
What should we change it to?
Display surfaces of electronic and digital signs, whether used indoors or outdoors, shall be designed with materials that ensure clear visibility and perception in varying lighting and environmental conditions;
Why should we change it?
The choice to use protective coatings, lenses, etc. are not accessibility requirements. The accessibility requirement is that the sign needs to be maintained in a way that it continues to meet the specified requirements (clear visibility and perception in varying lighting and environmental conditions). Whether that requires protective coatings, etc. is a design decision and should be determined by local environmental conditions. Technologies may develop that do not require protective coatings or lenses in order to provide clear visibility and perception. The standard should not require design components but rather should specify the requirements for creating accessibility (regardless of which design components are used to achieve that goal).
Heading text
12.11.5 Reflectivity and clear visibility
Heading number portion
12.11.5
Item id
1770328308911_102
Heading id
s12.11.6
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
avoid black backgrounds when placing LED-driven signage in the direct path of sunlight and instead use lighter backgrounds, to maintain the required ratios,
What should we change it to?
Remove a.
Why should we change it?
How the required contrast ratios are achieved is a design decision. As technology develops and environmental factors change a light background may not be the best method and you are restricting the potential use of new materials and technologies.
Heading text
12.11.6 Colour factors
Heading number portion
12.11.6
Item id
1770328396062_25
Heading id
s12.11.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
a best viewing time of 10 to 15 seconds per screen,
What should we change it to?
Create a table of viewing times per amount of test/length of message.
Why should we change it?
The best viewing time will depend on the amount and complexity of the information conveyed on the screen.
Heading text
12.11.7 Messaging
Heading number portion
12.11.7
Item id
1770328467497_400
Heading id
s12.11.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
grade 8 reading level
What should we change it to?
grade 4 reading level
Why should we change it?
Accessibility best practices recommend a maximum grade 4 reading level to ensure that information is understood by most members of the public.
Heading text
12.11.7 Messaging
Heading number portion
12.11.7
Item id
1770328569054_698
Heading id
s12.11.9
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Note: Providing a timbre and tone that is compatible across age demographics and accounts for the impact of hearing loss is good practice.
What should we change it to?
The timbre and tone required for accessibility across age demographics should be specified as a requirement.
Why should we change it?
Timbre and tone are required for accessibility.
Heading text
12.11.9 Acoustics
Heading number portion
12.11.9
Item id
1770328764329_311
Heading id
s13.2
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
The information displayed shall be based on a study and understanding of users' needs, including their location, language proficiency, and specific route requirements.
What should we change it to?
The information displayed should be based on a study and understanding of users' needs, including their location, language proficiency, and specific route requirements.
Why should we change it?
The statement is too vague to be an absolute requirement (shall). What is "a study"? Asking two people for their opinion? Why should language proficiency determine the information displayed? The information needed for accessibility should be displayed in a way that meets the language proficiency needs of most people.
Heading text
13.2 Information displayed
Heading number portion
13.2
Item id
1770328857033_274
Heading id
s13.3
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Map design and readability shall: use cartographic design elements to enhance clarity and usability such as title/subtitle, neat lines, legend, and orientation indicators when appropriate;
What should we change it to?
Map design and readability should: use cartographic design elements to enhance clarity and usability such as title/subtitle, neat lines, legend, and orientation indicators when appropriate;
Why should we change it?
Shall denotes an absolute requirement. It is not possible to state that something "shall" be provided and then say "where appropriate" because "shall" indicates it always must be provided.
Heading text
13.3 Design
Heading number portion
13.3
Item id
1770328957583_432
Heading id
s13.5
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
easily understandable
What should we change it to?
conveyed at a Grade 4 reading level.
Why should we change it?
What is easily understandable is subjective and differs from person to person. A requirement (i.e., shall) needs to provide the enforceable requirement that will provide the required accessibility.
Heading text
13.5 Legend
Heading number portion
13.5
Item id
1770329086184_959
Heading id
s13.6
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Maps shall include an index as part of the location plan or guide map
What should we change it to?
Where multiple similar facilities are provided, maps shall include an index as part of the location plan or guide map.
Why should we change it?
If all of the features on a map are illustrated in the legend, an index should not be required. For example, an index is helpful in a map of a shopping mall. It does not seem like an appropriate requirement for a national park map.
Heading text
13.6 Index
Heading number portion
13.6
Item id
1770329202036_638
Heading id
s13.7
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
typical walking times
What should we change it to?
Remove this text.
Why should we change it?
Typical walking times should not be used as walking speeds vary widely. Convey distances so each user can determine how long it will take them to cover that distance. Stating it is 2 km and a typical walking speed is 4 km per hour sets an expectation that the individual will cover the distance in 30 minutes. Individuals who walk more slowly often find themselves on trails after dark because they were unable to achieve the typical walking speed.
Heading text
13.7 Scale
Heading number portion
13.7
Item id
1770329268141_47
Heading id
s13.9
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
13.9
What should we change it to?
Remove this requirement.
Why should we change it?
f the map is required to meet accessibility requirements 24/7/365 then this is unnecessary.
Heading text
13.9 Commercial elements
Heading number portion
13.9
Item id
1770329384728_871
Heading id
s13.10
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Editorial such as spelling, grammar, formatting and accessibility
What should we change?
Location plans
What should we change it to?
Maps
Why should we change it?
Clause 13 addresses Maps (non-tactile). Why these requirements would apply to location plans and how those are different from maps is unclear.
Heading text
13.10 Construction and maintenance
Heading number portion
13.10
Item id
1770329512430_497
Heading id
s13
What kind of suggestion are you making?
Technical such as dimensions or application of the standard
What should we change?
Currently there is no perfect solution.
What should we change it to?
Currently there is no perfect solution.
Why should we change it?
This is a critically important statement and is exactly why the requirement for a slip resistant surface is not appropriate at this time.
Heading text
14. Annex A: Slip resistance measurement (informative)
Heading number portion
14.
Submission ID
64729
Submitted by
plongmuir@cheo.on.ca
Submitted on
Thu, 02/05/2026 - 17:13
Consent to contact
Yes

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Date modified:
2026-08-02

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