Inclusive Environments

Question 1

Why is it important for our built environment to be inclusive?

Answer 1

As we live in a diverse society, the built environment should therefore reflect that and should discriminate against anyone.

Question 2

What is discrimination?

Answer 2

The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people.

Question 3

What regulations/law governs inclusive environments?

Answer 3

1. Equality Act 2010
2. Part M of the Building Regulations: Access to and use of buildings
3. BS 8300

Question 4

Can you explain how the Equality Act 2010 influences inclusive environments?

Answer 4

• Under the act it is unlawful to discriminate on the grounds of gender, race, and disability, religion, age.
• These factors are known as the ‘protected characteristics’

Question 5

What is BS 8300?

Answer 5

It is a British Standard for the ‘design of an accessible and inclusive built environment’.

Question 6

Can you give me some examples of how a building can be inclusive?

Answer 6

• Gender neutral sanitary accommodation
• Physical access such as ramps and lifts
• Multi faith rooms

Question 7

Can you give me some examples of design requirements set out in Part M of the building regulations?

Answer 7

• Minimum door widths
• Minimum sizes for accessible toilets.