EVENT INDUSTRY

Let s be honest: most events don t check off every point on this list due to cost restrictions, but the more that you can tackle, the more considerate your event planning becomes. Naturally, the bigger the event and the broader your audience, the more vital accessibility is, and you shouldn t rely on the venue to ensure easy-access.

Duh: Verify Wheelchair Access

Double check that the primary entrance to your event is wheelchair accessible. If it s not, place clear signs near the primary entrance that indicate where the alternative wheelchair accessible entrance is located.

Check table heights and spacing

If circular or grouped seating is a feature of your space, ensure that there s enough room between tables to roll a wheelchair, and that tables are not too low. Some types of tables also cause discomfort or crowding due to the spacing or placement of table legs. If there s a seated stage-facing component, set aside a little front-row space for wheelchair seating, if possible.

Sacramento State has helpfully published a list of accessibility measurements:

Table height: 28 -34 from floor to top of table. If you must have some foods or information placed higher than 34 , be sure that at least a portion of such foods and information are available at the lower level.

Aisles: At least 36 wide for maneuverability, and up to 44 wide if goods/services are available on both sides of an aisle. There should also be at least 36 from the tables to the wall behind if guests will be seated at the tables.

Knee space: 27 from floor to bottom of table, if guests will be using tables for eating, writing, interviewing, receiving services, etc.

Cables: Covers should be used over electrical cables or cords that must cross over aisles or pathways. Cable covers should be no more than 1/2 thick in order for wheelchairs to traverse across them.

Event Signage Placement and Design

Review event signage to make sure that text size is large enough and font choices are clear enough that people with mild visual impairments can still make them out. Consider placing Braille lettering on important signage, and ensure that venue elevators and other location signage is written in Braille as well.

Website Color Contrast

Check with your web designer to ensure that that the color contrast and text sizes on the primary event website meet WCAG guidelines to ensure clarity for those with vision impairment.

Verify Restrooms

Verify that venue restrooms are wheelchair accessible, with at least one fully-equipped stall.

Video

Consider offering closed captioning when videos will be shown as an event component.