Reception PDF Print E-mail

The reception area includes the circulation space, reception desk, signage, seating and facilities that are immediately available once past the entrance to the building.

The key principles of an accessible reception are:

  • clear orientation instructions – so that people know where to go, who to ask, how to get out and what the signs are telling them
  • a section of low counter for those who need to use it at a lower height
  • access to a lift
  • visible, direct routes to toilets and other facilities
  • waiting space – with flexible space for wheelchair users and assistance dogs
  • low-level public telephone
  • clear information and signs, and helpful staff

Information

Information on how to find what you need within the building should be provided using clear signs. Information should be audible, visual and tactile wherever possible.

There is a section on wayfinding in the Running an access group section. For further advice on accessible signage, contact JMU Access Partnership for a factsheet. For more in-depth guidance, refer to the Sign Design Guide.

For guidance on making information in general as accessible as possible to everyone, refer to the See it Right guidelines on the Royal National Institute for Blind People's (RNIB) website.

Staff awareness

The staff at the reception desk are the first point of contact once inside a building. Reception staff should attend disability equality training courses to give them an understanding of disability issues. Equally, it would be an advantage if at least one member of staff on the reception can communicate via British Sign Language (BSL).

Reception area

Reception counters and service desks should be designed so that they can be accessed and used – on both staff and customer sides – by as wide a range of people as possible. The diagram below indicates the key dimensions for counters and service desks.

Diagram showing the design of a counter so it is accessible from both sides. There is adequate knee recess, and the counter is at two heights on the customer's side.

Counters/service desks
© Centre for Accessible Environments

Other important considerations for a reception area are as follows:

  • a reception counter in clear view of the entrance doors, and designed to be easily identifiable
  • a lowered section of reception counter, preferably with a knee recess for wheelchair users
  • clear circulation space for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre
  • induction loop provision, and clear indication that this is available
  • colour and texture of furnishings should contrast visually with floors and walls
  • suitable lighting that avoids reflection and glare
  • the receptionist's and visitor's faces should be clearly visible and well lit to allow lip reading
  • a range of different seating, with and without armrests, and some fixed and some loose to provide flexibility of arrangement

 

The diagram below highlights some of the key design requirements for an accessible entrance foyer.

Diagram of entrance foyer showing design of unobstructed routes, seating, reception desk and information provision.
Entrance foyer with reception desk
© Centre for Accessible Environments