Accessibility site checklist
I was on a panel this weekend about logistics for Pride celebrations and was specifically doing the part about accessibility. This is the checklist I use for a site visit beforehand.
This is used to prep two things
a FAQ about the site
a list of things To Do before the event
The FAQ means that anybody on team has access to detailed information about site right away. We usually put the most common information right in the event announcement descriptions, but the less common ones might be a linked page or an "ask for details" if it's a complicated answer or involves something we had to address Day Of.
The To Do list is broken into two things, one, annoy the venue owner to fix and two, day of fixes. For example, the venue we use had a wheelchair ramp that went up to a heavy, manual pull door. Whomp whomp. So close to accessible! So every time I saw people involved in renovations for building, I annoyed them about the "how's that coming, that's gonna have a power assist, right?" and it FINALLY HAPPENED. But meantime, day of, we stationed a volunteer there that opened the door and answered wayfinding questions for people like "how do I get from here to the bathroom?" (there were signs we added as well, but that was the backup)
Sometimes if the site visit reveals too many problems, you should just pick a different venue!
This was set up as a two page, printable list for the event, but here's a GDOC where you can download a copy for yourself and add more things! Or just use it to make a FAQ about sites you're using. I can guarantee I missed some things that might be relevant for your particular disability because I don't know everything to look for. But it covers a lot of the most common things you need to know for a location! the GDOC allows comments if you want to suggest stuff I should look for.
Wheelchair checklist
If it passes on all counts for a wheelchair, it should also be fine for strollers, walkers, rollators, cane users, or crutch users.
Is there a ramp? If so, where is it? How do you get from this door to other points in the building? Is there signage showing how to do so?
Doors are power assist yes/no. If not, which direction do they open? Is there enough space for a wheelchair user to open the door and still have the chair on a stable surface? You need a 3’ X 3’ space to be able to turn a wheelchair.
Are all bathrooms accessible or only some? Make sure the sink and hand dryer are also reachable. Is there signage pointing to accessible restrooms?
Are thresholds raised more than a half inch yes/no (no is good)
Are tables or counters at a height accessible to wheelchair users?
How wide are the doorways? Note anything less than 32”. You may need an alternate route to get between spaces if they are smaller. Make sure to measure with the door open, to account for any problems fully opening the door.
Is there an elevator & is there signage pointing to it?
If a stage is in use, is it accessible?
Check outdoor surfaces are level and intact. Note surfaces other than asphalt/concrete. Cobble tends to be very difficult to travel over. If possible, observe when snow has fallen to see which surfaces are regularly cleared or not
Where is the curb cut and does it flood during heavy rain? Is it plowed?
For any temporary structures, find a weight limit. A power chair may weigh 1000 pounds with the user in it!
BATHROOMS
Is a gender neutral or family restroom available? Does directional signage point to it when you enter an area?
Can the door be operated one handed or by someone in a wheelchair?
How high is the sink? Can it be used by a wheelchair user or child?
Where is the changing table and is it clearly labeled where it is?
Is there any seating in the bathroom?
Are menstrual products available?
Is there an emergency pull cord in the bathroom? Make sure the cord is NOT tied to the grab bar and reaches the floor!
TRANSPORTATION
How close is this to a public transit stop? Does the transit run during the event?
What is the condition of the sidewalk between the transit stop and venue? Check curb cuts and condition of surfaces. Check for obstacles that may make the sidewalk too narrow for a wheelchair.
Is there signage by the transit stop pointing to your venue?
Is their signage at your venue pointing to the transit stop?
Do curb cuts at the venue have a different textured plate on them?
Where is handicapped parking compared to the entrance you are using? Is there signage by the parking indicating where the entrance is if it is not visible?
If there are multiple entrances to parking, is the one that leads to handicapped parking clearly labeled?
Is there a bike rack?
OTHER CONCERNS
Are there flashing lights some or all of the time?
Are there fluorescent lights? Can they be swapped for a different bulb type?
Is there background noise that makes hearing conversation difficult?
What type of flooring is in this venue? Hard or soft surface?
Are there sudden, intermittent loud noises?
Is food present here? Does the food contain any common allergens?
Are there any strong non-food scents associated with the venue?
Are non-service animals allowed or present?
Is alcohol served?
Are drugs of any type present?
Is there seating for anyone over 250lbs?
Is there secluded seating away from noise or general line of sight?
Is there a sharps container anywhere on site? Is there signage pointing to it?
Is there an AED on site? Where is it? Is there signage pointing to it?
Is there a first aid kit on site? Where is it? Is there signage pointing to it?
More about what some of these items MEAN, why they're here, and some of the solutions for common issues.



















