Crossing the road

Everyone has the right to proper access to public areas and buildings including shops, cinemas and banks to name just a few. Regardless of disability or mobility, it is the law to provide appropriately safe access in these areas. Unfortunately, we’ve discussed before how that isn’t always the case. As experts in all things ramp this topic is particularly close to our hearts and we have seen first-hand the difference disabled access can have on both businesses and disabled people. The consequence of not providing the proper disabled access can range from being slightly irritating or time-consuming, to potentially dangerous. Tracey Proudlock discusses how encountering this issue at road works can be one of the more dangerous situations. Just as organisations such as employers, shops and local authorities have a duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people, construction companies have a similar responsibility for works access. Unfortunately, some rather thoughtless planning saw an access ramp on only on one side of the road. While someone clearly made some effort to provide safe disabled access, the failure to plan properly still result in a considerable obstacle. Fortunately, friendly passers-by were available to lend a helping hand in this instance. Of course, there aren’t always people around to help and disabled people can often be left frustrated. Even more concerning is the danger involved, with road works often operating on busy roads with poor or obstructed sight on the part of both drivers and pedestrians. The works themselves can also be dangerous with debris, holes and narrow passages presenting a hazard to access. Even small temporary road works can be a dangerous place to get stuck. There are clear instructions and recommendations for anyone responsible for temporary works provided by the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice. It’s also possible to get an assessment by a consultant from the National Register of Access Consultants who can help plan for proper disabled access. With the right resources, it should be achievable for anyone to provide safe disabled access. We’re proud to be working towards wider everyday disability access by providing a range of road safety equipment as well as a wide selection of wheelchair access ramp solutions. With products that provide excellent value for money and fast UK mainland delivery, we’re making the implementation of disabled access quicker and easier for everyone. Providing proper disabled access is also about safety, so don’t forget to read our ramp buying guide when planning your access solution.

For more information on Crossing the road talk to The Ramp People