Introduction

Over the past 3 months we have had the chance to attend the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) course and learned a lot about building accessibility, Universal Design and about the assumptions we make.

The RHFAC is an online course hosted through recognized educational institutions. The version we took was offered through George Brown College over an 8 week period with classes twice a week. A diverse group of architects, interior designers, planners and one other sport professional provided great insight into their experiences and in particular their perception of accessibility. Led by experienced accessibility professional Sarah White (Acede Consulting Group Inc.) the group of 22 candidates were guided through the history of building accessibility and the importance of full inclusion before we really got into the detail of building access. The course addressed areas of:

• The impact of the social and physical environment on people with disabilities;
• Relevant legislation, regulations, and standards needed when planning and executing a rating;
• Universal Design principles and standards when planning and executing a rating;
• How to interpret and navigate a set of construction drawings.

What people typically understand universal design to look like are the curb cuts, entrance ramps and automatic doors. While these are important components of accessibility and can be some of the most expensive, there are many other facets to building accessibility that are taken for granted and may not serve the wider need for access. The most significant takeaway from the course and one that, at times, had the architects challenged, was the concept that Building Code and specifically the section pertaining to accessibility can often be 5 or more years old before a building is constructed. That can mean that a new build complies with ‘The Code’ from 5 years ago but by now, awareness and expectations have moved on.

The RHFAC takes candidates through a building assessment process that begins with arrival at the building including; parking, public transit and pedestrian walkways. The process then moves to building entrances and exterior public areas before moving inside to public spaces such as a lobby, corridor to offices, washrooms, kitchens and meeting rooms. The certification also includes additional spaces that might be more common in residential units.

Each candidate was required to complete a mid-term assignment to ensure we were on track with understanding the assessment tool and how we entered data to reflect a building component. The assessment itself is a balanced scorecard that takes into account areas of complete compliance that might be described as the ‘Gold Standard’ and then other areas of non-compliance. As part of the assessment it is essential to note both positive examples and best practice as well as failing areas and recommendations for improvement. A passing grade is calculated across the average of all criteria in the scorecard and 60% or above earns a building the RHF Accessibility Certified award. Buildings achieving higher than 80% are recognized RHF Accessibility Certified Gold award.

At first glance this facility lobby appears to be wide and bright – all positives for accessibility, however the RHFAC training encourages us to look more closely at the temporary tables in the main floor area and the high shine from the glass doors and wall. Accessibility needs to be considered from a perspective of universal design to be as safe and welcoming as possible for as many people as possible.

From the perspective of a grassroots soccer club, or any soccer club for that matter, we need to consider the needs of all our participants (player, coach, match official, spectator, board and staff). At the same time we also need to consider the venues we use (club fields, municipal fields, school gyms and meeting spaces). As a soccer organization do you assess the locations you rent or own? Do you know what simple adjustments might be made for wider accessibility? Do you know how to approach these conversations with facility providers that you work with?

Soccability Canada is here to help. We can provide guidance on the accessibility of your facilities and would be happy to help ensure more participants get to enjoy our beautiful game. Contact us at inquiries@soccability.ca