INCLUSIVE COLOUR (CONT) . EQUALITY ACT
Definitions:
Well-considered colour schemes can help people navigate around a building more easily.
This is important when you consider the ageing population and the thousands of peoplewho are visually impaired or registeredwith some formof sight loss. Large buildings such as hospitals, conference centres, or care homes can contain a warren of corridors and can be confusing to navigate.
Ensure doors and handrails are clearly visible, and that floors and walls are clearly defined. Be careful not to overuse patterns as these can distort vital wayfinding information. Having a floor tonally different fromthe ceiling helps to establish a sense of space, somethingmany of us think nothing of it but for others,
spatial perception can be a problem. This section covers everything you need to know about The Building Regulations in relation to colour scheming. For further information on this please visit: www. www.gov. uk/guidance/equality-act-2010- guidance
Glare and reflections These are caused by shiny surfaces and large repeating patterns, and should be avoided in spaces where visual acuity is critical as they will hamper communication for people with impaired vision.
Corridors and passageways In order to help people with visual impairment to navigate the space, there should be a visual contrast between the wall and the floor.
Visual contrast, when used to indicate the visual perception of one element of the building, (or fitting within the building), means that the difference in light reflectance value between the two surfaces should be greater than 30 points.
Entrances All door opening furniture contrasts visually with the surface of the door. The door frames contrast visually with the surrounding wall. Image courtesy: Housing 21.
Aids to Communication The appropriate choice of floor, wall and ceiling surface materials and finishes can help visually impaired people appreciate the boundaries of a space and identify access routes.
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