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Universal Design Recommendations
Applying Universal Design to the Farm
- Step-free entry areas with accessible approaches and remote control operated overhead doors.
- Walking and working surfaces should accommodate the area being used.
- Non-slip surfaces in potentially wet areas
- Comfort / Fatigue mating at work areas for long periods of standing
- At least 60” of clearance around large equipment in storage or service areas
- Lever style door handles instead of twist knobs on all doors.
- Large “D” or “L” style handles on barn doors, gates, and storage cabinets.
- Windows that require minimal effort to open and close.
- Flat rocker panel light switches instead of toggle switches, located 42” to 48” from ground level.
- Additional lighting or task lighting in specific work areas.
- Adjustable height shelving and cabinets for storage areas – no overhead storage that takes access from stairs or ladder. At least 36” between rows of shelving or storage bins.
- Most frequently used items are 18” to 48” above the floor in storage areas, to least used items on higher shelves, and rolling or mobile items are on the floor.
- Mobile tool storage is no less than 6” from the ground and no higher than 48” from ground level.
- Utility carts to move parts, tools and miscellaneous items from the service area to other areas – storage, workbench, parts cleaner, welding station, etc.
- Multi-height workbenches. At least one work surface area 28” above ground with a clear opening below where a user can work seated.
- Switches and outlets at the front of workbenches opposite of the traditional location at the back of the bench on the wall.
- Power tools that are pneumatic or battery operated. Hand tools/equipment with larger cushioned grips, ergonomic handles, and sizes are very visible or color coded.
- Control levers or switches on equipment should have large color-coded / pictorial handles.
- Free-standing equipment controls should be located on the front of the machine and at least 18” off the ground and no more than 48” above the ground.
- Accessible sink area (with a lever style faucet) for clean up which can be used from a seated or standing position.
- Utilize floor markings for travel areas and work areas to keep parts, debris, or equipment from blocking these areas.
- Utilize floor markings at doorways to assist vision when pulling or backing in equipment to storage or service area.
- Use organizational techniques such as visual labeling and easy open containers.
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