ACCESS

Event Accessibility Checklist

As you plan your event(s) for the SIUE campus community, please use the following checklist to ensure that the program experience is as inclusive and universally designed as possible. The following list was adapted and amended based on AASE & Smith's ACCESSIBILITY CHECKLIST (1990); and Cornell University student Disability Services Checklist for planning Accessible Events 2013.

Publicity Check

• Accessibility Statement: Your event publicity should include an accessibility statement such as the following:
  
  "Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation, including alternate format media or have questions about the physical access provided, please call the office for Accessible Campus Community & Equitable Student Support (ACCESS) at 618.650.3726 or email myaccess@siue.edu in advance of your participation."
• Font Style and Size: Marketing materials posted online should use a sans-serif font (i.e.: Arial, Calibri, Tahoma) in a size no smaller than 14.

Venue Check

• Make sure the event venue is in an accessible location with clear directional signage (identifying location and direction) to all event or meeting locations.
• Ensure all requested accommodations are provided (i.e. interpreters, closed captioning, etc.)
  • Audibility
    • Public Address (PA) System
    • Roving microphone
    • Seating available near presenter for lip reading, well-lit space provided for interpreter if needed.
    • Assistive listening devices available
    • Ambient noise checked and removed to prevent distractions
  • Mobility
    • Accessible parking near venue
    • Elevator access
    • Accessible restrooms
    • Barrier-free pathways with no loose cables across walking areas
    • Wider doorways and aisles to accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, etc.
  • Service Animals
    • Comfortable space for animals to rest is made available
    • Accessibility to toileting and watering for service animals

Event Check

• Presentations
  • Presenters know that materials need to be submitted in advance so that individuals who cannot view screens or flip charts will have access
  • Presenters have been briefed to fully describe photos, diagrams and models in presentations
  • Printed copies in a larger font are available
  • Make sure speakers always use a microphone; activate captions on any video(s) used. 
  • Encourage hourly breaks whenever possible acknowledging some attendees may need additional time to move between rooms and/or sessions
  • Question & Answer - Make sure questions posed by the audience are repeated before responding, especially in absence of a roving microphone. 
• Dining Events
  • In the event food and/or drinks are provided, have alternative options for attendees with ingredients and nutrition facts are available for informed decision making (i.e. clearly indicate allergens and gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, or other options.
  • Additional space for individuals using wheelchairs in the event of banquet style seating.
• Emergency Planning
  • Exits are clearly identified and accessible
  • Fire and emergency alarms have both audible and visual signals
  • Areas of Rescue have been identified for individuals requiring assistance