Attachment_E__Programatic_Guidelines_for_Interpretive_Media_February_2012_0001.pdf

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 1

Harpers Ferry Center Center for Media Services National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Programmatic Accessibility Guidelines for National Park Service Interpretive Media

Version 2.1, February 2012 Prepared by the Harpers Ferry Center Accessibility Committee

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 2

Table of Contents

Chapter

1 About These Guidelines 4

2.0 Getting Started 6

2.1 Interpretive Planning 6

2.2 Scoping 8

2.3 Budgets 8

2.4 Evaluation 9

Guidelines by Interpretive Media Type

3 Audiovisual Programs and Tours 10

4 Conservation (Artifacts) 21

5 Exhibits 22

6 Historic Furnishings 50

7 Park Signage 51

8 Publications 54

9 Wayside Exhibits 72

10 Web-based Media 75

11 Promoting Accessibility 77

12 Training 80

Appendices

Appendix A: Laws, Regulations, and Policies 81

Appendix B: Accessibility Resources 91

Appendix C: The Principles of Universal Design 95

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 3

Appendix D: Alternative Media Formats 99

Appendix E: NPS Accessibility Pictograph Symbols 101

Acknowledgements 102

Page 79 and page 101, “Appendix E: NPS Accessibility Pictograph Symbols,” are the only sections of this document that have changed. All other sections of Version 2.1, February 2012 are the same as Version 2.0, August 2009.

Prior to the October 2007 edition of these Guidelines, this document was titled Special Populations: Programmatic Accessibility Guidelines for Interpretive Media. Note: Because accessibility regulations and technology continue to evolve, we will post updates and corrections on the HFC accessibility website, www.nps.gov/hfc/accessibility.

http://www.nps.gov/hfc/accessibility/

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 4

1 About These Guidelines

The Programmatic Accessibility Guidelines for National Park Service Inter-pretive Media is for media specialists, superintendents, and other Na-tional Park Service employees and contractors who develop and ap-prove interpretive media. Publications, exhibits, audio visual programs and tours, wayside exhibits, signage, and web-based media provide park visitors with information and context so that their experience of visiting national parks can be both safe and meaningful. Park visitors who have physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities have legally established civil rights to receive the same information and context that NPS interpretive media products have always provided to their fellow citizens. The fol-lowing is an excerpt from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended:

No otherwise qualified handicapped individual in the United States . . . shall, solely by reason of his handicap, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance or under any program or activity conducted by any Executive agency or by the United States Postal Service.

Accountability is described in the following two excerpts from NPS Director’s Order #42: Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities in National Park Service Programs and Services (November 3, 2000):

Superintendents Superintendents ensure all of their programs, facilities, and services are accessible, in conformance with appli-cable laws, regulations, standards, and policies. Each superinten-dent ensures all new programs, facilities and services are designed, constructed and delivered in compliance with accessibility require-ments.

Harpers Ferry Center The HFC is responsible for the overall management and direction of interpretive media . . . throughout the NPS. The HFC works to ensure that the highest level of accessibility that is reasonable is incorporated into all aspects of interpretive media, planning, design and construction. This includes ensuring that all new interpretive media are provided in such a way as to be accessible to and usable by all persons with a disability. It also means all existing practices and procedures are evaluated to determine the degree to which they are currently accessible to all visitors, and modifications are made to assure conformance with applicable laws and regulations.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 5

Federal law and agency policy require the NPS to offer media accessible to a wide range of abilities. How the NPS can provide programmatic access in its interpretive efforts to communicate with people with dis-abilities is a challenging, complex, and confusing topic. We all need guidance about how to apply regulations, standards, and best practices servicewide.

These NPS Guidelines combine laws, policies, and best practices. They present highlights only; they are not comprehensive. “Appendix A:

Laws, Regulations, and Policies” tells where to find the full text of the laws and regulations that NPS decision-makers are responsible for following.

Although we organize the guidelines by media product for ease of use, NPS employees recognize that no interpretive media product works alone. Media products are interdependent and each has inherent strengths and weaknesses. Park visitors sample and benefit from an array of interpretive media.

These Guidelines describe design and presentation solutions that are acceptable in most interpretive media situations. The Guidelines ac-knowledge that those who create and review interpretive media must be flexible and versatile because park resources and circumstances are so diverse. No document can prescribe solutions for every situation that arises in the National Park System.

Don Kodak Director, Center for Media Services National Park Service

W. Kay Ellis Accessibility Program Manager National Park Service

About These Guidelines

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 6

2.0 Getting Started

2.1 Interpretive Planning

Successful interpretive programmatic accessibility begins with parkwide comprehensive interpretive planning —so that all media can work togeth-

er. Where one medium may not be accessible to all persons, other media can fill the gaps. Early recognition of, and sensitivity to, accessibility issues will result in the most successful visitor experience.

Interpretive planning develops goal-driven communications strategies to enhance visitor experiences in parks. The basic interpretive planning document is the Long-Range Interpretive Plan (LRIP). Its three parts:

1) Develop overall goals; 2) assess current conditions; and 3) recom-mend personal services, interpretive media and facilities, and partner-ship programs.

Although not design documents, LRIPs should provide overall guid-ance on accessibility strategies and priorities for the park. Existing conditions in the park should be assessed with respect to accessibility for diverse audiences. Recommendations shall follow accessibility guidelines and describe a strategy for providing access to essential services, information, and experiences to diverse audiences with differ-ent abilities.

Interpretive Planning Guidelines

In interpretive planning documents or those documents that include interpretation or interpretive media, accessibility must be included as part of the plan and not just as “boiler plate” that states that the NPS will comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

NPS 2006 Management Policies directs that designs for park facilities “… will also be subject throughout all phases of design and construc-tion to the same code compliance; the same high standards of sustain-able design, universal design, and functionality; and the same review and approval processes.” and that they will “... incorporate universal design principles to provide for accessibility for all people, including those with disabilities… .” (See “Appendix C: The Principles of Univer-sal Design.”)

In the earliest stage of any project, all planning shall be guided by Uni-versal Design principles. Most important is Principle One: Equitable

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 7

Use, where the same experience can be provided for all users, without segregating or stigmatizing others with special accommodations or the need to ask for the special accommodations. Certain basic assumptions shall be made in the planning process:

■ The facility shall be fully accessible to people in wheelchairs.

■ Installing interpretive media in areas of buildings without wheelchair access is discouraged unless the inaccessible space is of crucial inter-pretive significance to the site.

An example of a crucial interpretively significant space would be a room where a specific significant event took place, like the signing of an important treaty.

Inaccessible upper floors should not be selected just because there is space available.

■ If interpretive media like exhibits or historically furnished rooms are on a floor of a historic building not accessible by people in wheel-chairs, programmatic alternatives must be developed for those visi-tors. (See “Appendix D: Alternative Media Formats.”)

■ All other accessible design standards, such as captioning, audio description, assistive listening systems, and tactile access to exhibits, shall be applied to all exhibits that are accessible to the public regard-less of location.

■ Captioning, audio description, and assistive listening systems shall be provided for all audiovisual elements.

■ The interpretive media shall be multi-sensory for all the interpretive messages being conveyed.

■ Specific accessibility guidelines and standards should be referenced in the document. LRIP documents themselves must be accessible. For information on accessible interpretive plans and reports, see “Publi-cations Guidelines: Visual, Reports.”

■ During the early planning and design of interpretive media for a facility, the team needs to analyze the overall programmatic access as well as the site. Planners shall:

Inventory existing interpretive programs that enhance acces-sibility to people with disabilities.

Getting Started

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 8

Evaluate facilities where new media might be installed. What accessibility issues need to be addressed?

Evaluate how the interpretive programs, planned interpretive media, and facilities together could make as accessible a visitor experience as possible. This document needs to pro-vide guidance for all future planning.

Consumer involvement: Identify disability organizations and individuals with various disabilities, and include them in the project planning process.

For information on accessible planning documents, see “Publica-tions. Guidelines: Visual, Reports.”

2.2 Scoping

■ Use Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards (ABAAS) Chap-ters 1 and 2 (pages 72–140) to determine what interpretive media and facilities are needed: new, old, alterations, temporary, permanent facili-ties, ratios, minimum requirements, and more.

■ The provisions of ABAAS Technical Chapters 3 through 10 shall apply where required by ABAAS, ABA Chapter 2 or where referenced by a requirement elsewhere in ABAAS.

Planners need to extrapolate intent from ABAAS to exhibit design. Because so many interpretive exhibits are unique in their design or method of display, the usual methods of accommodat-ing people with disabilities will require the design professionals to apply the standards/technical provisions for viewing height, reach ranges, and operation of any exhibit component individually. In most instances, standards are basic and usually are for physical access by an adult wheelchair user. The needs of persons with other types of disabilities need to be considered as well as the needs of children and small adults with disabilities.

2.3 Budgets

Project budgets must include accessibility needs from the beginning of planning. Retrofitting is far more expensive.

http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm

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2.4 Evaluation

Harpers Ferry Center works with the National Park Service Social Science Program to gather useful knowledge about park visitors and the public.

HFC’s goal is to acquire a better understanding of audiences, which ultimately helps planners and designers create more effective interpre-tive media. Another goal is to make media evaluations and evaluation resources accessible to parks and contractors who are working on inter-pretive media projects throughout the National Park System. Traditionally, there are three stages during which formal visitor studies, or evaluations, are conducted.

Front-End Evaluation is conducted during the beginning of a project, when themes, story lines, and program ideas are being considered. Front-end evaluation concentrates on getting input from potential visitors by means of interviews and/or focus groups, to find out what kinds of information they need and would like to know, and how this information could be presented in a meaningful, interesting, and cost-effective way.

Misconceptions about the subject matter are also revealed at this stage, often leading to specific content and presentation elements designed to counter them.

Formative Evaluation is conducted before the fabrication of interpretive media, when mock-up testing can be carried out. Formative evaluation is intended to “catch” design, content, and/or accessibility problems before they become a part of the final interpretive media, when they are often difficult and expensive to fix.

Summative/Remedial Evaluation is conducted after final media production, when the total “package” can be evaluated and final adjust-ments can be made. In a comprehensive evaluation program, the conduct of summative/remedial studies often reveals problems that were not, or could not be, identified during the earlier stages of development. For example, crowd-flow problems are often revealed only when the actual configuration of all the elements of the exhibition are in place. Similarly, orientation and signage problems become “obvious” at this point, and can often be corrected by relatively minor adjustments to wording and/ or placement.

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3 Audiovisual Programs and Tours

Audiovisual products give voice and vision to park interpretive themes.

Voices from the past can speak, inaccessible peaks can be climbed, and complex processes can be revealed through this powerful medium.

High-definition surround-sound theater presentations, audio and video museum elements, oral history recordings, multi-channel soundscapes, computer interactive programs, audio tours, ranger-led tours, audio and video podcasts, downloadable files, and interactive web features are all examples of the ways that the NPS combines sound with images to inform and inspire.

The NPS has adopted a policy of on-screen open captions or Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (SDH); audio description; and assis-tive listening systems. Still more work needs to be done. Comparatively few NPS theaters show videos that are audio described, for example.

Some technical challenges may make providing captioning, audio de-scription, and assistive listening systems difficult. The bigger challenge is to add these elements at the project’s end. Always plan accessibility elements from the beginning, never at the end.

Captioning, audio description, and assistive listening systems shall be identified early in any plan for any audiovisual element intended to be used in a unit of the National Park System. These standards apply even to products given to the NPS by an outside entity. For example, AV programs donated to parks must have captioning, audio description, and assistive listening systems provided regardless of source. These AV elements must also be maintained so that all parts of the presentation function properly.

Park managers will continue to have the final say on the most appropri-ate AV solution for providing full programmatic accessibility for AV products used at their sites.

For more information visit www.nps.gov/hfc/products/av-accessibility.htm.

http://www.nps.gov/hfc/products/av-accessibility.htm

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 11

Audiovisual Guidelines:

Mobility

■ Assembly areas (for example, theater, auditorium, and viewing areas) shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and desig-nated aisle seats complying with ABAAS F21 and 802. Lawn seating shall comply with ABAAS F221.5

Assembly areas shall be accessible and free of architectural barriers, or alternative accommodations shall be provided. (See “Exhibits Guidelines: Mobility.”)

■ Wheelchair spaces shall be provided in assembly areas with fixed seating. (See ABAAS F221.2 for more information and ratios.)

■ Integration. Wheelchair spaces shall be an integral part of the seat-ing plan. (from ABAAS F221.2.2)

Wheelchair spaces must be placed within the footprint of the seating area. Wheelchair spaces cannot be segregated from seating areas. For example, it would be unacceptable to place only the wheelchair spaces, or only the wheelchair spaces and their associated companion seats, outside the seating areas that are defined by the risers in an assembly area.

■ Lines of Sight and Dispersion. Wheelchair spaces shall provide lines of sight complying with ABAAS 802.2 and shall comply with ABAAS F221.2.3. In providing lines of sight, wheelchair spaces shall be dispersed. Wheelchair spaces shall provide spectators with choices of seating locations and viewing angles that are substantially equiva-lent to, or better than, the choices of seating locations and viewing angles available to all other spectators.

Audiovisual Programs and Tours http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 12

■ Companion Seats. At least one companion seat complying with ABAAS 802.3 shall be provided for each wheelchair space required by

ABAAS F221.2.1.

■ Overlap: Wheelchair spaces shall not overlap circulation paths. (See

ABAAS 802.1.5.)

■ Operable Parts. For designing video, interactive components, and control mechanisms see “Exhibits Guidelines: Mobility.”

■ Non-fixed seating. The above wheelchair guidelines relate to fixed-seating. For more on non-fixed seating, see “Exhibits Guidelines:

Mobility.”

Audio Description

Simultaneous audio description shall be provided. Audio description describes the visual content of video or multimedia programs. It provides individuals who are visually impaired with information that further describes the visual content not provided in the primary audio track.

Audio description is a separate audio track synchronized with the program’s primary audio track. An audio description narrator describes actions, gestures, scene changes, and other visual information. The

Audiovisual Guidelines:

Visual

Audiovisual Programs and Tours http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 13 narrator also describes titles, speaker names, and other text that may appear on the screen. Audio description shall be carefully scripted and produced by trained professionals.

The audio description is recorded on a separate audio track and is not heard over the main loudspeaker(s). Visitors requesting audio descrip-tion will typically receive a headset and receiver. The audio description track is then transmitted to the headset via a radio frequency or infrared signal. Only those with headsets will hear the audio description track.

Computer Interactive Programs

For technical requirements, see the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, Section 508.

Audio Description Tours

■ Audio description tours can be part of a larger interpretive tour or serve as a standalone alternative format. If the audio description is part of a larger audio interpretive tour, a separate track is recommended.

■ Ideally the device should not require visual cues, like a numeric system. However, should visual cues be used, Braille, a tactile indica-tion on the touchpad that orients the user, or an audio prompt for a numeric selection are acceptable.

For more information, see “Audiovisual Guidelines: Hearing, Audio Tours.”

Audiovisual Guidelines:

Hearing

Captions

All audiovisual programs with spoken dialogue shall be open-cap-tioned, and the captions shall be displayed at all times. Captions display spoken dialogue as printed words on television screens, computer monitors, projection screens, caption boards, and other visual displays.

Captions are designed to enable viewers with hearing loss to participate fully when viewing video or multimedia productions without self-iden-tifying.

Audiovisual Programs and Tours http://www.section508.gov/ http://www.section508.gov/

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All captions shall be produced to include identification of speakers and information regarding on- and off-screen nonverbal sound effects. Text indicating sound effects, such as “phone ringing,” “footsteps,” or “laughter,” as well as symbols indicating other sounds like music, should be used. Captions also benefit people learning a foreign lan-guage, learning how to read, or watching TV in a noisy area, and people who understand best by processing visual information.

The Department of the Interior requires that all new programs created after January 2009 be produced with open captions or subtitles (SDH) that are displayed on screen at all times. Programs created with closed captions before this date can continue closed-captioned programs, but the closed captions must be opened and displayed on screen or on a caption board at all times.

Always displayed, on-screen open captions help visitors who would otherwise not ask for this accessibility feature. This requirement reduces the amount of equipment required for playback, lowers the initial purchasing costs, and saves time and money required for troubleshoot-ing, repairing, and replacing equipment.

“Captions” is a term often used generically. But there are different techniques and approaches to producing captions that are important to note. As noted the Department of the Interior requires that captions be displayed on screen. The following two production approaches meet the department’s requirements.

Currently Accepted Captioning Presentations

■ On-screen open captions are displayed automatically as part of the video. Users need not select them; they are permanently superim-posed on the image and cannot be turned off. On-screen open cap-tions also offer more flexibility in the use of upper and lowercase letters, thus increasing their readability. Harpers Ferry Center recom-mends that captions use upper and lowercase letters.

■ Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (SDH): Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing are produced for people with hearing loss and therefore with the same intent as both closed and open captions. This means that in addition to the spoken word, SDH also identify speakers and indicate nonverbal sounds like music and sound effects using either text or symbols.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 15

Unlike captions, SDH are typically not embedded in a black box, have an outline or rim shadow to aid in readability, and use upper and lowercase letters.

Other Captioning Presentations

It is important to be familiar with other captioning techniques and approaches when discussing the final captioning format. Older produc-tions using these techniques and approaches may still may be found at National Park System sites. Following are descriptions of these caption types.

■ Closed Captions appear on screen only when the viewer (or AV technician) has specified that they appear. Closed captions can be turned on or off with a caption decoder that lets otherwise-hidden data in the television signal show on the user’s TV screen or comput-er monitor. Many newer television models allow viewers to toggle captions on or off with ease. Closed caption are not an acceptable on-site presentation option. However, for distribution such as sales items, closed captions are acceptable.

■ Caption Board: A caption board is a separate LED screen that displays the captions. Caption boards have been a common presenta-tion approach at park sites. Already installed caption boards do not have to be replaced. However, based on the current Department of the Interior Civil Rights Directive 2008-05, caption boards should no longer be installed.

Caption board sizes vary. The correct size is determined by the size of the room, the size of the screen, and the distance between audience and screen. Caption boards require a caption decoder.

The correct size and placement of the caption board is essential for proper readability. The caption board should be placed as close to the video screen as possible; screen frame and caption board mounting hardware should be the only limiting factors. It should be placed underneath the main screen. (If the caption board cannot be placed underneath the screen, it can be placed above, but only as a last resort.)

The caption board’s LED intensity should be set to match the inten-sity of the video image so that neither display overpowers the other.

Green is the preferred LED color.

Audiovisual Programs and Tours

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Assuming the caption board is placed below the screen, captions should be produced for the top two lines of the four-line caption space. If, as a last resort, the caption board is placed above the screen, captions should be produced for the bottom two lines of the four-line caption space.

The size of the caption board is determined by the viewing distance of the farthest viewer from the display. Caption boards with an LED height of 0.7 inches (Museum Technology CC-1000 or equivalent) can be viewed up to 30 feet. Caption boards with an LED height of

1.2 inches (Museum Technology CC-2000 or equivalent) can be viewed up to 50 feet. Caption boards with an LED height of 2.1 inches (Translux Datawall or equivalent) can be viewed up to 90 feet.

Caption boards shall use closed captions produced in all uppercase letters for readability. (Caption boards do not handle lowercase letters well. Any letters with a descender (g, j, p, q, and y) are “pushed up” so that the bottom of the descender is even with the bottom of the other letters, detracting from readability.)

■ The Rear Window captioning system may only be used in IMAX and other large-format theaters when no other approach is feasible. This system displays reversed captions on an LED caption board mounted in the rear of the theater. To use the system, visitors must request a transparent acrylic panel which they attach to their seat. This panel reflects the captions so that they appear superimposed on or beneath the movie screen. The panel should be wiped clean after each use.

■ Subtitles for Languages Translations: Subtitles are used to trans-late dialogue into a different language. They are primarily intended for hearing audiences who need language translation, while captions are primarily intended for people with hearing loss. Subtitles rarely convey nonverbal sounds like music or sound effects.

Whereas closed captions, when opened, are typically displayed on screen as white letters in a black box, subtitles generally are not dis-played within a black box, do not have standardized font require-ments, and correctly display upper and lowercase letters.

Subtitles produced for language translation purposes only are not an acceptable way of meeting the captioning regulation. SDH are accept-able. (See “Audiovisul Guidelines: Hearing/Currently Accepted Captioning Presentations/SDH.”)

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Caption Specifications

HFC recommends the following general caption-production specifica-tions:

■ Captions shall appear on no more than two lines, with no more than 32 characters per line.

■ Captions shall be pop-on/pop-off (vs. roll-up).

■ Captions shall distinguish between narration and spoken dialogue.

■ Captions shall indicate the presence of music and sound effects.

■ On-screen open captions shall use upper and lowercase letters.

■ On-screen captions shall be no more than two lines and placed at the bottom of the screen. When images or on-screen titles interfere with caption readability, the caption placement may temporarily switch from the bottom to the top of the screen, but should not cover faces.

Scripts

Printed scripts are NOT an acceptable alternative to the required open captioning. However, visitors may want to see a verbatim script to prepare for their visit or while at the park. As a standard procedure, copies of scripts shall be provided to parks and shall be available—in standard and in large print size—to visitors upon request. The scripts should also be available on the website. (See “Publications.”)

Assistive Listening Systems (ALS)

An assistive listening system is an amplification system utilizing trans-mitters, receivers, and coupling devices to bypass the acoustical space between a sound source and a listener by means of induction loop, radio frequency (commonly known as an FM system), infrared, or direct-wired equipment. (from ABAAS F106.5)

These systems and their coupling devices, known as assistive listening devices (ALDs), amplify the volume and bring the sound directly to a person’s ear.

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Assistive listening systems and audio amplification shall be provided.

(See ABAAS F219 thru F219.3.) There are a number of assistive listening systems and device configurations available that can be tailored to each space requirement. Visitors will be given receivers, known as ALDs, with headsets or neckloops when radio frequency (FM) or infrared (IR) transmitters are used to distribute the audio signal. Both headsets and neckloops must be available unless an induction loop is used.

Induction loop systems use an electromagnetic coil to create a magnetic field. People who use hearing aids or cochlear implants with a T-coil can receive the sound directly by switching their hearing aid to the “T” position. No additional devices are needed. Receivers with headsets shall be available for people without a T-coil, who do not wear hearing aids, or do not have a cochlear implant.

The National Park Service does not recommend the use of ear bud style headsets because they are difficult for people with hearing aids to use and are difficult to keep sanitary.

■ Audio equipment used individually by the visitor, including, but not limited to, telephone handsets, headsets, and sound sticks, must have individual volume controls and be T-coil compatible.

All companies that claim their devices are T-coil compatible should be required to submit documentation to substantiate this claim.

Video without audio

All video programs containing no audio shall be identified with a label or caption that states there is no audio.

Audio Tours These tours shall be integrated as a part of the on-site interpretive experience visitors receive.

■ Audio delivery devices must have an option for operation that is easy to use, relatively passive, and hands-free or have a hands-free option so that visitors can use their hands to explore, for example, tactile exhibits. Also, some people learn best through touch.

■ Cell phones are sometimes used as an audio tour delivery system.

This can be a problem if visitors have to use their own cell phones.

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Besides the cost to the user, some people with disabilities rely on cell phones to maintain their independence and must avoid depleting the batteries through nonessential use.

If the cell phone is used to provide both an interpretive and audio description tour, an alternative format shall be considered, such as a wand or a cell phone that can be checked out from the visitor center.

■ When audio tours are available, both headsets and neckloop couplers shall be available and appropriate signage shall be posted.

■ Many of the audio guides are T-coil compatible, so neckloops are only necessary when a hands-free version is needed. (See ALS above.)

■ Transcripts of the audio tour shall be available in standard and large-print size formats.

Ranger (Docent)-Led Tours Interpretive programs provide opportunities for visitors to make emo-tional and intellectual connections to park resources, mission, and interpretive themes. Personal services are ranger-led programs such as guided tours, talks, demonstrations, illustrated programs, conducted activities, and curriculum-based programs.

■ Ranger-led tours shall be hands-free or have a hands-free option so that visitors can use their hands to explore, for example, tactile exhib-its.

■ FM systems are ideal for ranger-led tours in noisy environments or spaces with poor acoustics. Even visitors without hearing loss can benefit from FM systems in such environments.

■ Receivers shall have both headset and neckloop couplers available.

■ Transcripts of the tour shall be available in standard and large-print size formats.

Qualified sign language (and cued speech) interpreters shall be available for scheduled and/or announced tours and/or upon request with reasonable advance notice.

A qualified interpreter is one who is able to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively and expressively, using any necessary specialized vocabulary.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 20

Narrations for visitors with cognitive disabilities are the same as for visitors without cognitive disabilities. There is no separate audio track.

For more information, see “Exhibits Guidelines: Cognitive.”

Audiovisual Guidelines:

Cognitive

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 21

4 Conservation (Artifacts)

HFC provides professional conservation services that ensure the long-term preservation of museum objects in national park collections.

Preservation and conservation of the important cultural resources of the NPS require expert and highly skilled specialists. At HFC, conserva-tors work meticulously to preserve and restore objects of social and cultural significance. They work on diverse materials ranging from fine and decorative art objects to natural history specimens.

For more information, visit www.nps.gov/hfc/products/cons.

The HFC Conservation staff:

■ Treat objects for exhibition and long term storage.

■ Participate in the HFC exhibit program. (See “Exhibits.”)

■ Perform collection condition surveys and conduct preventive care training.

■ Research and analyze artifact materials and topics related to NPS collections for improved preservation and interpretation.

For information on accessible conservation planning documents, see “Publications. Guidelines: Visual, Reports.”

Conservation Guidelines http://www.nps.gov/hfc/products/cons/

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5 Exhibits

Exhibits are multi-media experiences. Because people learn in many ways, exhibits use diverse techniques to interpret park resources, teach concepts, and stimulate interest. Exhibits tell stories using objects, text, images, multimedia, interactive devices, figures, models, and lighting effects. Successful exhibits communicate to the visitor the significance and context of artifacts that the NPS has chosen to collect, conserve, and display.

Visitors are free to move through exhibits at their own pace. They may often interact physically with exhibits and learn by doing. The goal is not only to educate but to inspire. Display items range from tools and weapons to the art of prehistoric and historic American cultures. Webs of life in our natural habitats are shown with plant and animal models.

Illustrations complete stories and set them in larger contexts. Art is used to reconstruct early events for which no visual material exists.

Exhibits sometimes must be put in places ill-suited to their purpose.

Pre-existing architectural structure or décor may limit many exhibit design decisions. Because the situations encountered in NPS exhibit spaces are so diverse, thoughtful, sensitive design can go a long way to produce NPS exhibits that can be enjoyed by a broad range of people.

For more information, visit www.nps.gov/hfc/products/exhibits.

http://www.nps.gov/hfc/products/exhibits/

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 23

Exhibits Guidelines:

Mobility

Floors or Ground Surfaces (See ABAAS 302.)

■ Floors and ground surfaces shall be stable, level, firm, and slip-resistant.

■ Carpet or carpet tile shall be securely attached and shall comply with ABAAS 302.2 “Carpet.” Exposed edges of carpet shall be fas-tened to floor surfaces and shall have trim on the entire length of the exposed edge. Carpet edge trim shall comply with ABAAS 303, “Changes in Level.”

■ Changes in level: See ABAAS 303.

Vertical. Changes in level of ¼-inch high maximum shall be permit-ted to be vertical.

Beveled. Changes in level between ¼-inch and ½-inch shall be bev-eled with a slope not steeper than 1:2. (See also ABAAS advisory 303.3.)

http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 24

Ramps. Changes in level greater than ½-inch high shall be ramped, and shall comply with ABAAS 405. In most cases ramps shall be as gradual as possible and not exceed a 1-inch rise in 12-inch run.

■ Position: Unless otherwise specified, clear floor or ground space shall be positioned for either forward or parallel approach to an element.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 25

■ Maneuvering Clearance. Where a clear floor or ground space is located in an alcove or otherwise confined on all or part of three sides, additional maneuvering clearance shall be provided in accor-dance with ABAAS 305.7.1 and 305.7.2.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 26

Circulation Space

■ General: Circulation through the exhibit space shall meet the re-quirements of an accessible route as described in ABAAS, Chapter 4, “Accessible Routes.”

The exhibit space should be free of architectural barriers. If, for example, an exhibit is in an inaccessible area of a historic structure, at least one method of alternative accommodations shall be provided. If the inaccessible space is of crucial interpretive significance to the site, an alternative method of accommodation shall be provided. (See “Inter-pretive Planning Guidelines” and “Appendix D: Alternative Media Formats.”)

■ Passageways through exhibits shall be at least 36 inches wide to provide adequate clearance for wheelchairs.

Exhibits

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 27

■ Turning space: If an exhibit passageway reaches a dead-end, a turning space shall be provided by either a T-shaped turning space which complies with ABAAS Figure 304.3.2 or a circular space of 60 inches diameter minimum. The space shall be permitted to include knee and toe clearance complying with ABAAS 306.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 28

Protruding Objects (See ABAAS 307.)

■ Objects projecting from walls with their leading edges between 27 inches and 80 inches above the floor shall protrude no more than 4 inches in passageways or aisles. Objects projecting from walls with their leading edges at or below 27 inches above the floor can protrude any amount. (See ABAAS Figure 307.2 below.)

■ Passageways or other circulation spaces shall have a minimum clear headroom of 80 inches. For example, signage hanging from the ceil-ing must have at least 80 inches from the floor to the bottom edge of the sign. (See ABAAS Figure 307.2 above.)

■ Protruding objects shall not reduce the clear width required for accessible routes (See ABAAS 307.5.)

Exhibits

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 29

■ Post-Mounted Objects: Free-standing objects mounted on posts or pylons will overhang a maximum of 12 inches from 27 inches to 80 inches above the floor. (See ABAAS Figure 307.3 below.)

■ Vertical Clearance shall be 80 inches high minimum. Guardrails or other barriers shall be provided where the vertical clearance is less than 80 inches high. The leading edge of such guardrail or barrier shall be located 27 inches maximum above the finish floor or ground.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 30

■ When a horizontal exhibit element is located on a platform, table, pedestal, or otherwise surrounded by a railing over which visitors will lean, a vertical clearance of 80 inches minimum shall be maintained up to 36 inches inward from the railing.

Artifact Cases

■ Maximum height of bottom of artifact case shall be no higher than 30 inches from the floor of the room. This includes vitrines that are recessed into an exhibit wall.

■ Artifact labels on a vertical surface shall comply with “Typography” below. Artifact labels on a horizontal surface shall be mounted at an angle to maximize their visibility to all viewers.

■ Transitions between glazing and framework of artifact cases or glass doors which surround exhibits or artifacts shall be placed in the visitor’s line of sight and not hidden behind railings, platforms, or other exhibit structures. This is so that the glazing is immediately visible to the visitor, and the visitor does not mistakenly think he or she can lean into the opening for a closer look.

■ Angled tables are more accessible to wheelchair users.

Touchable Exhibits—operated or manipulated with one hand

The following reach ranges refer to items briefly touched with one hand, such as a push button or small, tactile bas-relief model fastened to a panel or reader rail.

■ Reach Ranges: See ABAAS 308 for more information, including children’s reach ranges, obstructed/unobstructed reaches, and excep-tions. NPS uses the common reach ranges of adults and children ages 9 and above for forward and side unobstructed reaches.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 31

■ Forward Reach (unobstructed): For touchable exhibits positioned unobstructed on a vertical surface, the high forward reach will be 44 inches maximum, and the low forward reach will be 16 inches mini-mum above the finished floor. These are common measurements for adults and children ages 9 and above. (See NPS modified ABAAS figure 308.2.1. below)

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 32

■ Side Reach (unobstructed): Where a clear floor space allows a parallel approach to a touchable exhibit and the side reach is unob-structed, the high side reach will be 44 inches maximum, and the low side reach shall be 16 inches minimum above the finished floor. These are common measurements for adults and children ages 9 and above.

(See NPS modified ABAAS figure 308.3.1 below.)

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 33

■ Operable Parts: See “Operable Parts of Interactive Exhibits” below.

Touchable Exhibits—operated or manipulated with two hands

The following reach range refers to more detailed, complex, large, tactile interactive exhibits which may contain braille, raised lettering, bas-relief sculpting, various textures, and may include switches or buttons to activate multimedia such as audio programs. The visitor should be able to use both hands simultaneously to interact with the exhibit.

■ Reach Range: Flat-mounted or tabletop exhibits to be touched or closely approached, such as relief maps and tactile exhibits, shall allow for a clear knee space that is a minimum of 36 inches wide and 27 inches clear height above the floor surface. Where it does not create a hazard for persons with low vision, 29 inches high knee space is recommended for wheelchair users. (See Figure 18-1 below; cour-tesy California State Parks Accessibility Guidelines.)

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 34

Railings and barriers

■ Vertical Protective Barriers: Vertical barriers to protect artifacts, models, multi-media presentations, or other exhibit elements, which are intended to be viewed but not touched by visitors, shall have a maximum height of 36 inches from the floor. The barrier shall be con-structed to provide unobstructed viewing over the barrier by persons in wheelchairs.

■ Reader Rails: Railings or barriers that are also the structural support for angled interpretive panels, which may include text, graphics, touch-able models, interactive exhibits, and audiovisual elements, are called reader rails. Reader rail panels shall have a maximum height of 30 inches from the floor to the front bottom edge of the panel. The angle of the panel should be 30 degrees. Reader rail panels shall meet the requirements for Protruding Objects under ABAAS 307.2.

Information Desks and Work Surfaces

Information desks and sales counters shall include a section made to accommodate both a visitor in a wheelchair and an employee in a wheelchair working on the other side. A section of the desk/counter shall have the dimensions specified below.

■ Work surfaces shall be between 28 and 30 inches in height above the finished floor. Ideally, this will accommodate the needs of both adults and children ages 6 and above. (See ABAAS 902.)

The work surface shall never be below 28 inches or above 34 inches in height to comply with ABAAS 902.

■ Knee clearance space: See “Seating” below.

■ Width of top surface of section: at least 36 inches. Additional space must be provided for any equipment like a cash register.

■ Area underneath and behind desk: Since both sides of the desk may have to accommodate a wheelchair, this area should be open all the way through to the other side. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under the work surface desk. (See ABAAS 804.3.3.)

The floor space behind the counter shall be free of obstructions. The finished floor treatment extends underneath the desk.

Exhibits http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 35

Seating—Interactive Stations/Work Areas

■ Toe Clearance: See ABAAS Figure 306.2 below. See ABAAS 306.2 for the complete requirements.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 36

■ Knee Clearance: See ABAAS 306.3 for the complete requirements.

The knee space underneath a work desk shall be:

27 inches minimum above the finished floor.

25 inches maximum in depth.

30 inches wide minimum.

Provide a clear floor space of at least 30 inches by 48 inches in front.

Mini-theaters within a museum exhibit area

When the exhibit incorporates a short multimedia presentation, like a video, in a mini-theater with bench seating (see ABAAS 903.3 and 903.6 for information), space shall be provided for at least one visitor in a wheelchair.

Exhibits

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 37

■ The wheelchair space width shall be 36 inches wide minimum.

■ The wheelchair space depth: Where a wheelchair space can be entered from the front or rear, the wheelchair space shall be 48 inches deep minimum. Where a wheelchair space can be entered only from the side, the wheelchair space shall be 60 inches deep minimum.

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR NPS INTERPRETIVE MEDIA FEBRUARY 2012 38

■ Unobstructed view: The wheelchair space shall be located so as to provide an unobstructed view of the multimedia presentation.

■ Overlap: Wheelchair spaces shall not overlap circulation paths.

■ Non-Fixed Seating: If seating in a mini-theater is in the form of benches, at least one seat with back and arm support shall be provided.

This support is essential for people who have mobility impairments— seat arms and backs offer support points for people lowering into and rising out of seats.

Operable Parts of Interactive Exhibits:

■ Operable parts of mechanical interactive exhibits shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate operable parts shall be 5 pounds maximum. (See ABAAS 309.4.) A person with a closed fist should be able to use the object or control.

■ Push buttons for electrically-activated interactive exhibits or audio-visual programs shall be spaced a minimum of 0.7 inch from the center of one button to the closest edge of the next button. (See Hands-On Architecture, Access Board Research, Figure 2.2.) Multiple buttons shall be arranged in either vertical or horizontal rows.

■ Height: Operable parts shall be placed within one or more of the reach ranges specified in ABAAS 308. (See also “Touchable Exhibits” above for NPS modified reach ranges.)

Exhibits Guidelines:

Visual

Tactile Exhibits

■ Touchable examples: Tactile models and other touchable exhibit items should be used whenever possible. Examples of touchable exhibit elements include relief maps, scale models, raised images of simple graphics, reproduction objects, and replaceable objects (like natural history or geological specimens, cultural history items, etc.).

(See “Appendix D: Alternative Media Formats.”)

■ Hands-on living history areas are helpful to visitors with visual impairments. These areas allow visitors to interact with props, repro-ductions, and interpreters.

Exhibits http://www.access-board.gov/ada%2Daba/final.cfm http://www.access-board.gov/research/handsonarch/html/recommendations%20for%20standards.htm

PROGRAMMATIC ACCESSIBILITY…