Range Of GAATES Services

UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

GAATES is uniquely positioned to assist countries in the implemention on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. GAATES has an indepth knowledge of the convention and has given a series of presentations with respect to the particular the elements relating to the accessibility and information and communications technologies.

GAATES has developed a series of instruments to assist in the implementation and monitoring of the Convention, including a computerized software program that measures compliance with accessibility criteria and provides a measureable data score or rating.

Universal / Inclusive Design

GAATES provides architectural services to developers, building owners, architects, municipalities and other government services on the inclusion of universal design into the design of the built environment. Services include accessibility reviews of drawings of proposed facilities, site visits and audit reports as well as the development of Universal Design Guidelines and Implementation Manuals.

Accessibility Audits of the Built Environment

GAATES is able to conduct accessibility audits for built facilities such as schools, public buildings, or outdoor aspects of the built environment, such as recreation and transportation facilities. Audits can include the review of preliminary architectural drawings, assessment of existing facilities, heritage properties, private developments and government facilities. GAATES consultants have extensive experience and can provide recommendations for ensuring an accessible environment, using a priority system which bases the improvements on cost, safety and ease of implementation.

GAATES is also able to offer assistance for clients wishing to develop accessibility strategies for future developments which incorporate fire and life safety concerns for people with disabilities.

Codes and Standards Development

GAATES participates in numerous standards and codes organizations that develop standards and guidelines for the accessibility of information and communications technologies, as well as the built and outdoor environments.

GAATES participates in the development of the International Standards Organization ISO/TC 59/SC 16, Accessibility and Usability of the Built Environment, the first international accessibility standard.

GAATES has developed code reviews and accessibility standards development for countries, municipalities, states, communities, universities and new developments. GAATES provides advice on the standards development processes based on a range of different geographic and cultural approaches. See the link for the International Best Practices in Universal Design: A Global Review.

Information and Communication Technologies

GAATES incorporates best practices and standards into the accessible design of information and communications technology (ICT) and the development of "ICT Guidelines" for use by website and product developers.

In addition to developing guidelines, GAATES has developed checklists which enable developers to quickly identify ICT barriers and suggestions for their removal. As part of a comprehensive plan, GAATES develops an implementation plan, strategies and approaches for successful deployment of the Guidelines.

Accessible Website Audits and Development

GAATES provides training and education on the design of accessible websites. GAATES members participate in the development of international standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0, as well as contribute to ICT forums such as WSIS (World Summit on the Information Society) and UN-GAID (UN - Global Alliance for ICT and Development) events.

Fire Safety and Disaster Preparedness for People with Disabilities

GAATES provides a wide variety of information and training on fire and life safety for people with disabilities. Services include training of firefighters, building owners and managers. In addition, an information kit on Fire Safety For Persons With Disabilities is available.

Accessible Play Spaces

GAATES has specialized expertise in designing accessible play spaces. We can provide design, installation and inspection services ensuring that play spaces are inclusive and safe.

Accessible Tourism

GAATES is dedicated to promoting accessible tourism worldwide. Membership includes architects, interior designers, hotel owners and developers.

Training and Education Related to Services

GAATES has developed and presented workshops, seminars and training courses on accessibility issues including barrier-free design and universal design, fire safety, ICT accessibilty development, codes and standards, and human rights and the UN Convention. GAATES members are frequent participants and presenters at local, national and international conferences and we are able to customize our education and training sessions to meet the needs of our clients, from one-on-one training to accommodating large groups.

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