Hello, elementary school students from around the world! I conduct barrier-free classes for elementary and middle school students in Japan. I’m writing this article to share information about barrier-free practices in Japan with all of you overseas. Let’s use this information about barrier-free design in Japan as a starting point to think about barrier-free practices in your own countries!
Fun Barrier-Free Quiz
Today, we’re going to learn about barrier-free design in our surroundings through an interesting quiz. We’ll especially think about the relationship between stairs and windows. At first glance, these might seem unrelated, but there’s actually a deep connection!
Here’s the quiz. Think carefully and try to answer:
Quiz: When installing windows in a stairwell, care should be taken to ensure that sunlight does not [ ] into people’s eyes.
Did you figure out the answer? The correct answer is “directly shine”!
Why Is This Consideration Necessary?
You might be thinking, “Do we really need to worry about light coming in through windows?” Actually, there’s a very important reason for this.
This consideration is necessary to prevent falls caused by the glare of sunlight. It’s especially important for elderly people and those who are sensitive to light.
Imagine this: When you enter a stairwell from the bright outdoors, what would happen if strong light suddenly shone into your eyes? Your eyes would be dazzled, and you might not be able to see your footing clearly. It’s very dangerous if you can’t see your footing on stairs. The chance of tripping and falling increases significantly.
The Importance of Barrier-Free Design
Don’t you feel that barrier-free design is really profound after considering this quiz? Even in buildings we use without thinking, there are many considerations hidden that take into account various people’s needs.
Barrier-free design is important not just for people with disabilities, but for elderly people, small children, and all of us. The goal of barrier-free design is to create an environment where everyone can live safely and comfortably.
Barrier-Free Around the World
In Japan, such detailed considerations are included in building standards. But countries around the world are also making various efforts to ensure everyone can live safely.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities stipulates that it’s important to ensure all people can safely use buildings. Many countries have signed this convention and are working to create barrier-free environments.
For example, in countries in America and Europe, considering the needs of various people from the design stage of buildings is considered important. Efforts are made to improve safety, such as the installation of stairwell lighting and handrails.
How About in Your Country?
So, how about in your countries?
- What are the stairwells in schools and public buildings like?
- Are there any measures to prevent glare from windows?
- Are there considerations for elderly people or people with disabilities to use stairs safely?
Try observing the barrier-free design around you with your family or teachers.
What We Can Do for a Barrier-Free Society
There are many things each of us can do to create a barrier-free society:
- Observe our surroundings carefully
- Offer help if we see someone having trouble
- Discuss barrier-free design with friends and family
These small actions can be the first step in creating a society that’s comfortable for everyone to live in.
Barrier-Free Exploration Team
We learned about windows in stairwells today. Why not use this as an opportunity to observe barrier-free design in your own town?
Take a look at the stairwells in your school or nearby public facilities. How are the windows installed? Are there any measures to prevent glare? How about the handrails?
Through such “barrier-free exploration,” we can think about how much consideration has been given to barrier-free design in our towns, and what improvements might still be needed. New discoveries might become big hints for creating a barrier-free society in the future!
Important Note
Finally, I have an important request for all of you.
This article is based on experiences and ideas from Japan. Barrier-free efforts and ideas might differ depending on the country and culture. Please discuss with your family or teachers about how things are in your country. Let’s think about a world that’s easy for everyone to live in while respecting our differences. This is not meant to force Japanese ideas or my own thoughts on you. Also, please always prioritize safety and act with trusted adults. Please keep this in mind.
Also, as this article aims to generate interest in barrier-free design rather than provide precise information, the standards are described roughly. For accurate information, please check the websites of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (Japan) or relevant agencies in other countries.
For inquiries → https://lahainars.com/contact/
Please note that I am not proficient in English, so please inquire with simple and short English sentences.
コメント