Overall, YVR has done a great job at enhancing accessibility for travellers getting in and out of the airport. Through the assessment process we outlined a few areas that should be improved and we provided advice on how those changes can be made.
Suggested adjustments and advice are outlined below based on the locations visited.
GENERAL OVERVIEW
• Training tips – Staff should not assume persons with disabilities need assistance, the rule to is “ask first” (please see the ‘Welcoming Customers With Disabilities Guide’ for further information).
Parking – Accessible parking spots should be 3.9 metres wide (12.8 feet) and have 1.8 metres (6 feet) clear space behind vehicle for the use of rear ramps. Accessible spots should not block curb cuts and staff should ensure curb cuts are not blocked by drop-=offs or parked vehicles. A sign with the international symbol of accessibility must be located adjacent to the parking space and mounted high enough so it is not hidden by a vehicle parked in the space. Pavement signage, with the international symbol of accessibility located in the centre should be at least 1000 mm (39 inches) in length and be in a colour strongly contrasting with the background pavement
DEPARTURES – LEVEL 3
• The far end of curb, by the Fairmont, has accessible railing however there is no curb cut and the cement barricades block the exit to the accessible pathway leading to the road below.
• SmartCarts stacked in front of the accessible ramp decreases the visibility of the location and existence of the ramp. Possible solutions are to ensure SmartCarts are not stored at that location or to erect a visible sign, above the height of the SmartCarts, indicating the location of the ramp.
• Are there any accessible carts? An example of an accessible cart would be one that attaches to a wheelchair’s arm rests with a clamp, allowing the person in a wheelchair to direct the cart with their chair, freeing their hands.
• Mark curb cuts with yellow paint so easy to spot, big curb cuts with steeper slopes should to sainted with yellow box to indicate start and stop of slope from top to bottom and side
• The “no dog” signage on doors should include an exception for working dogs.
ARRIVALS – LEVEL 2
• Old crosswalk being used during the Olympics and Paralympics will require a curb cut or temporary ramp.
• The temporary ramps should be properly secured and flush with the ground and sidewalk without any gaps. Extend the carpet from the ramp onto the sidewalk if possible to prevent gaps where carpet wears at join. The double width of the existing temporary ramp is a good size. A small 5-7.6 cm (2-3 inch) ledge, painted yellow, along the sides of the ramp would increase visibility and safety.
• Training for customer service: Do the staff who assist people with disabilities know how to interact with people who use wheelchairs? Do the staff know how to properly assist a person in a wheelchair up or down ramps and while transferring into or out of vehicles, etc?
Passenger Pick-Up Area
• There is not enough unobstructed space on the sidewalk for people with a side entry ramp to maneuver off and on their ramps. There enough space for those using a rear entry van.
• The signage is flat against the wall when it should be facing the road and oncoming traffic.
DOMESTIC – LEVEL 1
• A new accessible parking spot could go in on either side of the road. The existing curb area would work well as there is space to the rear and on either side for deployment of ramps and room for a person to maneuver their mobility device on or off the ramp. If a new spot is created in the existing parking area on the other side of the street in the parking spot must be 3.9 metres wide (12.8 feet) and have 1.8 metres (6 feet) clear space behind vehicle for the use of rear ramps; ensure these areas are clear and well marked and that there is signage on the ground as well as mounted high enough so it is not hidden by a vehicle parked in the space.
INTERNATIONAL ARRIVALS – LEVEL 2
• The area is dark and the signage is hard to see. To ensure visibility of signage use contrasting colours on signage and improve lighting where possible. Spot lighting can be used to highlight the signage if overall lighting cannot be increased
• Large curb cut leading to crosswalk, should have yellow paint strip extended along left side of curb cut as the slope is quite steep on the one side.
• Add the international symbol of accessibility to all signage that directs persons to the transportation choices that are accessible, such as taxis, buses and local shuttles.