[Winning design in International Union of Architects (UIA) and Rehabilitation International (RI)-run 2022 competition for 21st century symbol of accessibility, by Ukrainian architect Maksym Holovkoas.]
The BSI Public information symbols committee PH/8/2 is currently working with the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) to assess public and industry opinion on the suitability of the international symbol for accessibility, currently depicted by a wheelchair. One of the drivers for a potential new symbol symbol is that some people who have a genuine need to use accessible facilities can often be challenged by members of the public because their disability is not visible.
A potential new international symbol for accessibility (see image above) has now been proposed to ISO Committee TC 145/SC 1 for inclusion in a future amendment to ISO 7001:2023 – Graphical Symbols, Registered public information symbols. This standard contains public information symbols for use in all locations and all sectors where the public has access. Whilst this new symbol has been proposed to this ISO/TC 145/SC1, it has not yet been accepted. The views of key stakeholders are therefore currently being invited on this important issue.
To this end, GAI and PH/8/2, the UK mirror group, would like to ascertain the thoughts of industry in the United Kingdom. Please complete this survey to give your opinion, and feel free to share with industry colleagues.
Update (as of 12.01.24): The deadline for submitting completed surveys has been extended to 31st January 2024.