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Proposing an Additional Side Reach Range for Improved Accessibility (8.3.0 General, 8.3.3 Side Reach)

Feb_2025_EN_301_549_ReachRanges-ITI.pdf

REFERENCE: Subclauses 8.3.0 (General) and 8.3.3 (Side Reach)

The latest draft (v012) aims to accommodate approximately 80% of users based on University of Buffalo (2010) data, defining reach ranges of 800-1100 mm for operable parts at 400 mm depth and 800-1600 mm for non-touch displays (non-operable parts). However, analysis of the accommodation tables shows that these ranges provide only:

  • Greater than 68% accommodation for power wheelchairs
  • Greater than 69% accommodation for mobility scooters

Additionally, interface depth can pose usability challenges for individuals with limited upper body mobility or short arms.

Rationale for Change

  • Increases accessibility for users with limited upper body mobility while maintaining an 80% accommodation goal.
  • Reduces depth to 300 mm, making it easier to interact with controls.
  • Harmonizes with existing reach standards, ensuring better consistency across global regulations (we propose this for EN 301 549, EN 17210, while maintaining alignment with ISO 21542).

This proposal ensures greater inclusivity and better usability for individuals with diverse mobility needs while maintaining alignment with international accessibility standards.

Reducing the depth enhances accessibility and ensures greater ease of reach for all users.

Please see the attached document for a full explanation of this with visual explanations.

PROPOSED CHANGE

Add after the first range as follows:

  1. To fully accommodate individuals with limited upper body mobility or reach, where ICT is, or includes, stationary hardware, and the side reach is unobstructed or obstructed by an element that is an integral part of the ICT, at least one of each type of operable part shall be placed within a low reach of 700 mm to a high reach of 1300 mm above the floor of the access space, at a horizontal distance of a maximum of 300 mm from the lateral-most point of the mobility device.