All University of Washington entities are responsible for ensuring that their programs, services, and activities are accessible. These resources attempt to guide entities through the event planning, implementing, and promoting processes and in alignment with UW Executive Order No. 31 & APS 46.4.
Why is Accessibility Important?
- UW values access and diversity as it demonstrates our commitment to creating an inclusive community
- University of Washington policy, in alignment with state and federal regulations, require equal access to university programs, services, and activities for individuals with disabilities
- The Department of Education reports a 1 in 5 ratio of students on campus have a disability
- The CDC reports a 1 in 4 ratio of adults living in the US to have a disability
Physical Location Access & Route Considerations
- Parking
- Know where the nearby ADA designated parking is located
- Route & Entrance
- The route from ADA parking to the entrance is flat and paved
- A ramp is available where exterior steps lead to the entrance
- Clear signage to an accessible entrance (if the main entrance is inaccessible) is present
- The door(s) are easy to open if not automatic or held open (i.e. lever vs knob handle, limited door pressure)
- Event Location
- The furniture is movable, or if fixed seating areas, accessible seating options are available for participants
- There is plenty of space to maneuver around tables and interior walkways (at least 36”)
- The lighting and acoustics are good and electric cords crossing walkways are covered
- In rooms where audio will be amplified (microphones), assistive listening devices are available for participants who are hard of hearing
- Seating near the front for participants who are Deaf or hard of hearing is available
- The stage and projector screen is easily visible (if in use)
- Restrooms with accessible stalls are located near an event location(s) with clear signage
Virtual Connections & Features
Review how to plan and host a virtual meeting, training, or event
Registration Process & Forms
Registration materials should include an access statement stating how to request an accommodation(s). See the statement below under promotions and publications.
To help with advanced planning consider including the following on registration materials:
I will need the following accommodations in order to participate:
__ ASL Interpreter
__ Communication Access in Real-Time (CART services)
__ Large print
__ Braille
__ Wheelchair access
__ Assistive Listening Device
__ An Assistant will accompany me
__ Closed-captioned videos
__ Other (specify)
If lodging and/or meals are coordinated through the event, an opportunity must be provided to request accommodations related to diet and lodging.
When talking to hotels:
- Check with hotels to ensure they understand the level of their accessibility and have procedures for providing access to their facilities
- Determine an alternative plan for meeting rooms or facilities that are not accessible.
Promotions & Publications
Promotions and publications include brochures, flyers, announcements, web flyers, email blasts, social media postings, UW Today event ads, etc. All should include the following statement to ensure accommodations can be requested:
The University of Washington is committed to providing access and accommodation in its services, programs, and activities. To make a request connected to a disability or health condition contact [INSERT sponsoring department contact, phone number, and email address], by [INSERT specific date].
If an accessible feature is already built into the event, such as a sign language interpreter or specific equipment, note that as well. For example:
- FM amplification systems are available.
- Sign language interpreting will be provided at the April 15th performance.
- We plan to use automatic captions. To request sign language interpreters or CART captioning, email [INSERT sponsoring department contact, phone number, and email address]
Review more information about access statements
Accommodation Requests
Individuals attending campus events must be given the opportunity to request accommodations within a specific time period. Timelines are allowed to be set but ensure your event promotions and publication timelines have the request period built into it.
Types of common accommodations include:
- Preferential seating
- Portable amplification system
- Sign language interpreters
- Captioned media
- Alternative formats for printed materials
When Accommodation Requests Are Made
Say YES when you can and consult if you have questions or are uncertain.
As accommodation requests are submitted for your conference, training, service, or event approve and implement what you are able to provide. If you have questions or concerns about implementing a request consult with the Disability Services Office (DSO) on the necessary next steps. If you are considering saying no to a request DSO consultation will need to occur first.
Bothell and Tacoma may also consult with their DRS Students office as well:
Bothell: Disability Resources for Students
Tacoma: Disability Resources for Students
Additional Resources
- City of Seattle Community Guide to Accessible Events & Meetings
- ADA National Network Resource for Temporary Events
- ADA National Network for Accessible Remote Meetings, Conferences, Training, and Telework
- ADA National Network Resource on Accessible In-person Meetings