Accessibility Minute: Watch Out for Protruding Objects!
Posted by Jennifer Gossett
Accessibility in buildings isn’t just about wide hallways and ramps. It’s also about keeping pathways clear of objects that stick out, like shelves, signs, or light fixtures. These protruding objects can be hazardous for people who are Blind, low vision, or those using mobility aids.
Here are some tips to ensure safety:
- Keep Pathways Clear: Make sure that walkways are free of objects sticking out more than 4 inches from the wall.
- Proper Height: Ensure that objects between 27 and 80 inches from the ground do not protrude too much. This prevents head injuries.
- Use Cane-Detectable Barriers: Place barriers below 27 inches high so that people using canes can detect and avoid obstacles.
- Report accessibility barriers. If you notice something, we are happy to respond. Please report any potential barriers by submitting our short form.
Following these tips helps make buildings safer and more accessible for everyone. Let’s work together to keep our spaces free of dangerous protruding objects!
Learn more
file pdf Review the US Access Board’s Quick Guide on Protruding Objects
video Watch a short video about Protruding Objects.
This Accessibility in a Minute is brought to you by our Accessible Built Environment Committee (ABEC). Learn more about ABEC.