Accessible Procurement Resources: Considerations by Product Type

• Can the product be used by someone:
  • in a seated position?
  • using one hand, with limited upper body strength?
  • with limited fine motor skills?
  • with vision loss or low vision?
  • with hearing loss?
• Does the product meet ergonomic standards?
• Can the product be customized to meet different needs?
• Are instructions for using the product clear and easy to follow?
• Will support materials (e.g. manuals or training materials) be available in accessible formats at no extra charge?

Clothing and Fabrics

• Is the texture suitable for individuals with sensory sensitivities or skin conditions?
• Example: Sensory Sensitivities. Choose clothing/fabrics that are soft and non-irritating for individuals with sensory sensitivities or skin conditions.
• Does the apparel provide adaptability and comfort for individuals with various needs?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose adaptive clothing and compression wear that provides comfort and support for individuals with mobility challenges.

Linens

• Are linens made of materials suitable for individuals with sensitivities?
• Example: Sensory Sensitivities. Choose linens made of hypoallergenic and soft materials for individuals with sensitivities.

Kitchen Utensils and Cookware

• Are kitchen utensils and cookware designed for comfortable use?
• Example: Arthritis. Choose kitchen utensils and cookware with ergonomic designs and handles to minimize strain for individuals with arthritis.

Projectors, Speakers, AV Cables

• Are speakers and audio equipment of high quality and adjustable volume?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Choose audio equipment with adjustable volume and high-quality speakers for individuals with hearing impairments.

Projection Screens, Video Conferencing Tools

• Are video conferencing tools and projection screens designed for clear visual output?
• Example: Low Vision. Choose equipment with high visual clarity and options for adjustable font sizes or contrast for individuals with low vision.

Phones, Tablets, Headsets, Microphones

• Can communication devices be adapted with assistive technologies?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Choose devices compatible with hearing aids or cochlear implants for individuals with hearing impairments.

Braille Displays, Speech-to-Text Software

• Does the device include features like voice recognition or Braille displays?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Opt for devices with accessibility features like screen readers or Braille displays for individuals with visual impairments.

Desktop, Laptops, All-in-One

• Can the computer equipment be easily adapted with assistive technologies like screen readers or voice commands?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Choose computers and accessories that are compatible with screen readers or can be controlled through voice commands for individuals with visual impairments.

Keyboards

•  Are the keyboards designed to be accessible for users with limited dexterity or motor control?
• Example: Motor Impairment. Select keyboards with larger keys or tactile feedback for users with motor impairments who may have difficulty using standard keyboards.

Monitors

• Can the monitor settings be adjusted for brightness, contrast, and font size for those with visual impairments?
• Example: Low Vision. Ensure monitors allow for easy adjustments to accommodate larger fonts, high contrast, and brightness levels for users with low vision.

Headphones, External Speakers, Microphones

• Is there support for audio output and adjustable volume for users with hearing impairments?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Choose computers with quality speakers or support for external assistive listening devices for individuals with hearing impairments.

Cables, Adapters, Routers, Switches

• Are computer and network supplies easy to install and configure?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Consider supplies with straightforward installation procedures for individuals with cognitive impairments.
• Are the supplies durable and resistant to wear and tear?
• Example: Motor impairment. Choose durable supplies that do not require frequent replacement, reducing the physical effort needed for individuals with motor impairments.

Chairs and Desks

• Can the furniture be easily adjusted for different body sizes and comfort needs?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Considerations for adjustable desks and chairs to accommodate wheelchairs or mobility aids.
• Is the design ergonomic to support various physical conditions, such as back pain or repetitive strain injuries?
• Example: Chronic pain. Choose chairs with lumbar support and ergonomic design to alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like chronic pain.

Space Accessibility

• Is there enough space around the furniture for individuals using mobility aids or guide animals?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Ensure clear pathways and consider tactile indicators for those with visual impairments who rely on guide dogs or canes.
• Are the colours and contrasts of the furnishings suitable for individuals with visual impairments?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Opt for high-contrast and tactile markers on furniture edges for individuals with low vision or colour blindess.

Smartphones, Laptops, Camera

• Do electronic devices include accessibility features for various impairments?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Choose devices with features like screen readers and magnification for individuals with visual impairments.

Wearable Technology

• Can devices integrate with assistive technologies for seamless use?
• Example: Various Disabilities. Choose devices that are compatible with a range of assistive technologies to enhance accessibility for individuals with different needs.

Batteries, Memory Cards, USB Drives

• Are electronic materials designed for easy handling and use?
• Example: Motor Impairment. Choose electronic materials with larger buttons or easy-to-handle designs for individuals with motor impairments.

Electronic Components, Circuit Boards

• Are electronic components compatible with a range of devices and technologies?
• Example: Various Disabilities. Choose electronic components that are versatile and compatible with various devices to accommodate individuals with different needs.

Industrial Machinery and Equipment

• Is the interface intuitive for operators with varying levels of technical expertise?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Ensure machinery interfaces are user-friendly and provide clear instructions for individuals with cognitive impairments.
• Are there safety features in place to prevent accidents?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Consider safety features that include visual indicators for individuals with hearing impairments.

Hand and Power Tools

• Are the tools designed for comfortable and efficient use over extended periods?
• Example: Arthritis: Consider tools with ergonomic handles and grips to reduce strain on joints for individuals with arthritis.
• Are there safety features in place to prevent accidents?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Consider safety features that include visual indicators for individuals with hearing impairments.
• Are the markings on the tools clear and easy to see?
• Example: Visual impairment. Choose tools with high-contrast markings and tactile indicators for individuals with visual impairments.

Excavators, Bulldozers, Cranes

• Are the controls designed for easy operation and understanding?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Ensure controls are straightforward and have clear markings to accommodate individuals with cognitive impairments.

Plumbing Supplies, Electrical Wiring

• Are supplies designed for easy installation and modification?
• Example: Mobility Impairment: Choose supplies that are easy to install and modify, reducing the physical effort required for individuals with mobility impairments.

Building Materials, Paints, Fasteners

• Are construction supplies designed with safety features in mind?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Ensure that safety warnings or alarms are visually indicated for individuals with hearing impairments.

Vacuum Cleaners, Steam Cleaners, Cleaning Robots and Mops

• Are cleaning tools lightweight and easy to maneuver?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose lightweight and maneuverable cleaning tools to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.
• Do cleaning tools offer automation features and user-friendly interfaces?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Consider cleaning tools with automation features and simple interfaces for individuals with cognitive impairments.
• Are replacement parts readily available?
• Example: Various disabilities. Consider the availability of replacement parts for to ensure ongoing usability for individuals with different needs.

Lubricants, Sealants, Cleaning Solutions

• Are maintenance supplies equipped with applicators that are easy to use?
• Example: Motor Impairment. Choose supplies with user-friendly applicators for individuals with motor impairments who may have difficulty with intricate or small tools.

Disinfectants and Waste Disposal Bags

• Are cleaning supplies suitable for individuals with sensitivities to certain chemicals?
• Example: Choose cleaning supplies that are hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals for individuals with sensitivities.
• Are waste disposal items designed for easy access and use?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose trash bags and bins with easy-access features to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Writing Instruments, Desk Organizers

• Are writing instruments and desk organizers designed for comfortable use?
• Example: Arthritis. Choose writing instruments with ergonomic grips, and desk organizers that minimize the need for excessive hand movements for individuals with arthritis.

Desk Lamps

• Are office supplies designed with adjustable lighting to accommodate various needs?
• Example: Visual Impairment: Choose desk lamps with adjustable lighting features to cater to individuals with visual impairments.

Branded Apparel, Customized Items

• Are promotional items made of materials suitable for individuals with sensitivities or allergies?
• Example: Sensory Sensitivities. Consider materials that are hypoallergenic or suitable for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
• Do tech gadgets or promotional items serve a practical purpose and are accessible to a wide audience?
• Example: Various Disabilities. Choose items with practical and inclusive features, ensuring they are accessible to individuals with different abilities and needs.

Books, Magazines, Educational Materials

• Are printed materials available in various accessible formats?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Ensure that printed materials are available in large print, Braille, or audio formats for individuals with visual impairments.
• Do printed materials consider design elements for various preferences and needs?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Choose materials with clear and simple designs for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Printers, Ink Cartridges, Printing Paper

• Are printers and printing supplies easy to operate and maintain?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Choose printers with intuitive interfaces and easy-to-replace cartridges for individuals with cognitive impairments.
• Do printing supplies offer a variety of materials suitable for different projects?
• Example: Sensory Sensitivities. Consider specialty inks and materials that are suitable for individuals with sensory sensitivities or specific project requirements.

Protective Gear

• Is the protective gear comfortable and available in various sizes?
• Example: Mobility Impairment Choose protective gear that accommodates various body sizes and ensures comfort for individuals with mobility impairments.

Fire Extinguishers, Emergency Lighting

• Are emergency supplies easily accessible in case of evacuation?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Place emergency supplies in locations that are easily reachable for individuals with mobility challenges.

Laboratory Instruments, Measurement Devices

• Is the interface of scientific equipment user-friendly and accessible?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Ensure that scientific equipment interfaces are designed for ease of use and understanding for individuals with cognitive impairments.
• Can the equipment be easily adjusted for different users and purposes?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Choose equipment that is adjustable to accommodate various user heights and provides clear visual output for individuals with visual impairments.

Laboratory Consumables, Safety Equipment and Lab Coats

• Is product information clearly labeled and available in accessible formats?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Ensure that labels and product information are available in large print or tactile formats for individuals with visual impairments.
• Are safety equipment and attire comfortable and easy to put on and take off?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose safety attire that is designed for easy donning and doffing to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Processing Equipment and Tools

• Are there measures in place to minimize vibrations and noise from equipment?
• Example: Sensory Sensitivities. Consider individuals with sensory sensitivities by choosing equipment with reduced vibration and noise levels.
• Are there safety features in place for the handling of equipment and tools?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Ensure that safety alarms or warnings are also visually indicated for individuals with hearing impairments.

Plant and Animal Supplies

• Is information about the products available in various formats (e.g., large print, audio)?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Ensure product information is available in accessible formats for individuals with visual impairments.
• Are safety equipment and attire comfortable and easy to put on and take off?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose safety attire that is designed for easy donning and doffing to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

Exercise Machines, Sporting Gear, Outdoor Equipment

• Can sports equipment be easily adapted for individuals with different abilities?
• Example: Various Disabilities. Choose adaptive sports equipment that can be easily customized for individuals with different abilities and needs.

Camping Gear, Bicycles Team Sports Equipment

• Is recreational equipment durable and able to withstand various conditions?
• Example: Motor Impairment/ Choose durable sports equipment that reduces the need for frequent replacements, accommodating individuals with motor impairments.

Cars and Trucks

• Can the vehicle be easily adapted for individuals with mobility challenges?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Consider vehicles with adaptable features such as hand controls or wheelchair accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

Electric Vehicles, Hybrid Models

• Is the charging process accessible for individuals with disabilities?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose vehicles with accessible charging stations or options for at-home charging to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments.

• Does the service provider have accessible customer service?
• Can the service provider accommodate the needs of people of all abilities? For example, when hiring someone to do research, do their surveys and interviews accommodate people with different types of disabilities?
• Does the company use accessible signage, audio and/or print materials? For example, when hiring an event coordinator, will they use high-contrast signs for the event?

Postal Services, Couriers

•  Are mail services and couriers accessible for individuals with varying needs?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose mail services and couriers that offer accessible options for individuals with mobility challenges.

Package Tracking Services

• Is there a reliable and accessible system for real-time package tracking?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Choose services with accessible package tracking options for individuals with visual impairments.

Shipping Companies, Freight Forwarders

• Do freight services provide options for handling fragile or sensitive items with care?
• Example: Sensory Sensitivities. Choose freight services that offer options for handling fragile items with care, considering individuals with sensory sensitivities.

 Custom Packing Solutions

• Do freight services offer customization options for packaging with accessibility in mind?
• Example: Various Disabilities. Choose freight services that provide customization options to accommodate the unique needs of individuals with different disabilities.

Legal Services, Accounting, Consulting

• Do professional services ensure communication accessibility for clients with various needs?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Choose professional services that provide communication options suitable for individuals with hearing impairments.

Digital Marketing, Web Development

• Are digital services designed with accessibility in mind, including website development and marketing?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Choose digital services with websites and marketing materials that are easy to understand for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Self-Storage Facilities

• Are storage units designed to be easily accessible and usable for individuals with various needs?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose storage units and facilities that are easily accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.

Cloud Storage Services, Digital Archives

• Are digital storage services designed for easy navigation and accessibility?
• Example: Visual Impairment. Choose digital storage services with accessible interfaces and navigation options for individuals with visual impairments.

Internet Service Provers, Cable Companies

• Do professional services ensure communication accessibility for clients with various needs?
• Example: Cognitive Impairment. Choose telecommunication services that offer accessible customer service options for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Streaming Platforms, Media Outlets

• Is media content provided with subtitles or closed captioning for individuals with hearing impairments?
• Example: Hearing Impairment. Choose streaming platforms and media outlets that provide content with subtitles or closed captioning for individuals with hearing impairments.

Airlines, Hotels

• Are travel services and accommodations accessible for individuals with diverse needs?
• Example: Mobility impairment. Choose airlines and hotels that offer accessible accommodations for individuals with mobility challenges.

Travel Apps, Navigation Services

• Navigation accessibility: are travel apps and navigation services designed for easy use and accessibility?
• Example: Visual impairment. Choose travel apps and navigation services with accessible features for individuals with visual impairments, such as voice-guided navigation.

Grocery Stores, Restaurants, Food Delivery Services

• Ingredient information: Is detailed information about food ingredients readily available?
• Customization options: Do food services offer customization options for dietary needs?
• Are restaurants accessible for individuals with diverse needs?

• Example: Food Allergies. Choose food services that provide detailed ingredient information to accommodate individuals with food allergies.
• Example: Dietary Restrictions. Choose food services that provide customization options to accommodate individuals with specific dietary restrictions or preferences.
• Example: Mobility impairment. Choose restaurants that offer accessible accommodations for individuals with mobility challenges.

Questions to consider

• Has the software been assessed against VPAT?
• Is the software designed to be accessible to users with disabilities such as those who are blind or experience vision loss, are deaf or hard of hearing, or have restricted mobility?
• Does the software provide customizable accessibility features, such as the ability to change font size and colour, or support for screen readers and keyboard navigation?
• Is the user interface easy to navigate, especially for users with cognitive limitations?
• Does the software comply with provincial, national, and international standards concerning accessibility, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)?
• Has the software been tested for accessibility with a diverse range of users, including those with disabilities?

• Can someone using a mobility aid (e.g. wheelchair or walker) move around the facility?
• Are signs placed at an accessible height?
• Does the facility have emergency procedures to assist people with disabilities?

Venues, Conference Facilities

• Are facilities equipped with features that enhance accessibility for individuals with diverse needs?
• Example: Sensory Sensitivities. Choose facilities with features that consider sensory sensitivities, such as quiet areas or accommodations for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
• Are buildings and facilities designed with inclusive principles in mind?
• Example: Various Disabilities. Choose facilities that follow universal design principles, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with different disabilities and needs.
• Are venues equipped with accessible seating options?
• Example: Mobility Impairment. Choose entertainment venues that offer accessible seating options for individuals with mobility challenges