An access audit (sometimes referred to as a DDA audit) assesses the current status of a building, environment and the way services are provided against good practice standards to benchmark the ease of accessibility, primarily for disabled people. However, well designed inclusive and accessible environments are beneficial for everyone.

As I write all access audits myself, I ensure that they are clearly written in plain English and that any technical terms are clearly explained.

How does it work?

I will visit your building at a suitable time and carry out an inspection starting from the outside and then working through the interior. The access audit will assess how inclusive and accessible the environment is for everyone.

The access audit will provide comments on any barriers to access which may prevent a disabled person from being able to use the environment and services. I will provide practical recommendations to improve access including any ‘reasonable adjustments’ you may need to consider in relation to the Equality Act 2010 (the Disability Discrimination Act – DDA has been absorbed into the Equality Act 2010). A ‘reasonable adjustment’ can be something as simple as changing a policy and does not necessarily require you to make expensive physical changes.

The access audit will be comprehensive and will include the following key areas;

The external environment
Any on site car parking
Entrance doors
Lobby areas
Reception points
Toilet facilities
Corridors
Internal doors
Stairs
Lifts
Communication systems
Controls / switches
Colour / visual contrast
Lighting
Acoustics
Wayfinding and signage
Emergency means of escape
Maintenance

Management Policies & Practices

Staff Awareness

Following the access audit survey, I will prepare your report for you to incorporate in an access plan or access strategy for the future.