ANNEX
G
Check-List to improve Accessibility of
Polling Stations
Accessibility Audits
Factors to be taken into account when choosing
sites:
- Condition of pathway.
- Distance to be covered to reach polling
station.
- Distance of car parking for people with
disabilities/older people.
- Height of kerb, option of temporary ramp.
- Height and number of steps, option of
permanent/temporary ramp.
- Signposting of alternative accessible
entrances at the main entrance and all possible approaches.
- Space inside polling station to allow
manoeuvring space for wheelchairs.
- Levels of lighting.
- Floor surface: if highly polished/slippery,
use of floor coverings which should be flat and even.
- Doormats and mat-wells should be level
to floor.
- Width of doorways, height of door-handles,
heaviness of door, direction of opening.
- Hand rails next to steps.
Consult with local disability groups about
potential access problems and solutions to improve access.
Avoid use of portacabins/temporary huts until
redesigned to improve access.
Disability awareness training for electoral
administrators.
Every polling station should have one wheelchair
accessible polling booth.
The ballot box should be placed at such a height
that a person in a wheelchair can reach it unaided.
As a temporary measure—compile and advertise
a list of all fully accessible polling stations. This is an interim
measure—not a solution to the problem of inaccessible polling
stations.
Other measures to help disabled people
Voter registration campaigns—in the community
and in residential centres.
Advertise voting rights in day care centres
and GP surgeries.
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