Let’s start with analyzing if we can make beaches accessible. With the slippery sand, dunes and the rocks enroute is it really possible to make beaches accessible for people with disabilities?
Well the answer is a resounding YES! Yes, it is possible to make beaches accessible. Let’s understand how:
What is an accessible beach
An accessible beach point is an area where people with disabilities can gain access to the beaches and the sea via adequate urban infrastructures such as accessible public transport, reserved parking spaces and other elements such as access ramps, shaded areas and changing rooms. A specialized team available onsite to assist is a good to have in addition to the facilities to assist in case of emergencies.
Source: https://www.goaprism.com/goa-beach-fest-2017-indias-first-wheelchair-accessible-beach-fest/
What are a MUST in an accessible beach
1. BEACH ACCESS ROUTES:
Beach access routes allow pedestrians to cross a beach so that they can play, swim, or participate in other beach- or water-related activities. A beach access route is a continuous, unobstructed path that crosses the surface of the beach and access routes must connect an entry point to the beach to the high tide level at tidal beaches. Pedestrian footpaths here could be permanent or temporary.
a. Fixed Footpaths:
Fixed footpaths are part of an accessible route and are considered permanent structures and must be stable, firm and slip-resistant. Level changes must also be addressed. Although concrete and hard surfaces are generally used to stabilize compliant footpaths, these materials may not be suitable for beach routes seaward because of the dune protection lines which should not be disturbed. In that case we should consider alternatives such as fabricated or brick pavers to stabilize fixed footpaths.
Source: http://www.curbfreewithcorylee.com/2014/11/20/most-wheelchair-accessible-beaches-in-the-world/
b. Temporary Footpaths:
Removable mats are an approved alternative method of surface stabilization that accommodate the required accessibility standards that may be acceptable. The mats may be preferable in areas with high erosion rates or where a stabilized surface is needed to provide access to compacted portions of the beach. Because maintenance and emergency vehicles may traverse the beach, mats should be durable and able to withstand occasionally vehicular crossing.
To prevent damage, provide remove mats prior to conducting beach maintenance and before high tide or storm events. Mats should be regularly maintained to prevent sand accumulation that may hinder access.
Source: http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/community/beach-access-points-platforms-for-wheelchairs-2981.html
c. Access Routes clear width and slope:
The clear width of beach access routes must be a minimum of 1500mm to enable people using mobility devices to pass people traveling in the opposite direction without veering off the firm and stable surface into the sand. The clear width of beach access routes that are not removable can be reduced to a minimum of 1200mm at dune crossings.
When gates or barriers are installed to control beach access, the gates or barriers must allow the passage of mobility devices, including beach wheelchairs. Gates or barriers should provide clear openings at least 1200mm wide for beach wheelchairs.
The slope of any segment of a beach access route must be no steeper than 1:10. When the running slope of a segment of beach access route is steeper than 1:20 and a resting interval must be provided at the top and bottom of each segment.
Source: https://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility/htmlpubs/htm06232801/page10.htm
2. BEACH WHEELCHAIR:
Beach wheelchairs complement but are not a substitute for providing beach access routes. Beach wheelchairs have large, wide wheels that can roll across sand without sinking but do not provide independent access.
It is constructed from all stainless steel tubing for strength and corrosion resistance. The large front tires will roll easily over the sand without sinking and the smaller rear wheels allow for easy pivoting and assist in turning the chair. It features a footrest and removable arm rests (for ease of access), and a large seatbelt.
3. PARKING SPACES:
One percent of all public parking spaces provided for beach access must be designated as accessible parking spaces. One in every eight accessible parking spaces, but never less than one, must be designated as accessible parking space. Accessible parking shall be located directly adjacent to the barriers that delineate the parking area from the pedestrian-only beach.
The accessible parking spaces and their adjacent access aisles shall be level, stable, firm and slip-resistant. The accessible parking access aisle and the accessible route must be stabilized with an approved temporary surface that provides access to accessible portions of the beach.
4. TOILETS:
The toilets must be accessible for people with disabilities. This may require widening restroom stalls, installing grab bars, and lowering soap and towel dispensers.
Accessible toilets need larger floor space than other cubicles to allow space for a wheelchair to maneuver. This space is also useful for people who are not necessarily wheelchair users, but still need physical support from someone else. A wheelchair-height changing table is also recommended, but remains rarely available.
Accessible changing tables are low and accessible to a wheelchair user, and long enough for a caretaker to change an older child or adult with a disability.
https://havewheelchairwilltravel.net/accessible-beach-melbourne-altona-beach/