Furtwangen, 27.10.2011
Building communication

Barrier-free construction has long since been about far more than installing wheelchair ramps and widening doors. The aim is for all visitors to be able to access the building freely straight away - no matter whether they have any physical disabilities. Communication systems from Siedle to help make this happen.

Public buildings in particular have to interact with their visitors. They provide an answer to vital questions: Am I in the right place here? Who is my contact and how can I find room 501? The answers are provided first and foremost by communication systems. These should facilitate orientation, also for the physically less able. An example of successful barrier free architecture are the premises of SRH Holding (Heidelberg Rehabilitation Foundation), which have to be accessible to wheelchair users and the visually impaired. SRH decided to opt for Siedle Steel: With its wide scope for individual adaptation, the Siedle Steel system is ideally suited to meet the special requirements of people with physical restrictions.

Simple orientation

The communication system at the main entrance offers fast orientation by means of a touchscreen. A second identical panel was integrated by Siedle at a height reachable by wheelchair users. By touching the screen, an alphabetically arranged list is accessed of all the employees. Pressing the name box initiates a call. The call is confirmed by an optical and acoustic signal. Call button, intercom unit and electronic access control are positioned to be easily reachable by standing visitors and wheelchair users alike. The call button with raised Braille inscription is immediately identifiable by the visually impaired.

Picture file: SRH_Holding_2843_ohne_Firmennamen_10376
Picture caption: A free-standing pedestal receives visitors to the main entrance. The integrated communication terminal clearly indicates already from afar what its purpose is: It is operated by touchscreen.

Picture file: SRH_Holding_2870_10377
Picture caption: Siedle integrated a second communication terminal specifically for use by wheelchair users. Placed at the right ergonomic height, it also allows operation from a seated position.

Picture file: SRH_Holding_3009_11068
Picture caption: For the blind and visually impaired, Siedle provided a raised Braille inscription on the large-area call button.

barrier-free-access.zip (1.54 MB)