*Inclusive practices that are listed on this page with an asterisk are not legally required.

Choosing a Venue

Note: Not all Purchase College meeting spaces are accessible to those with mobility impairments.

Please check the meeting space for accessibility prior to booking it.

Parking

All event materials that are posted in advance should include parking and entrance locations as well as accessible paths between the two. Consider including a hyperlink to the Purchase College Interactive Campus Map, which shows locations of all accessible parking lots and entrances on campus.

Mobility – Consider those using Wheelchairs or Other Assistive Devices

  • Accessible parking near venue
  • Ramp and/or elevator access (wheelchair access must be available in all portions of the venue that participants will be using, including the speaker’s area.)
  • Accessible bathrooms (Ideally, an accessible bathroom should be located within 200 feet of the event location.)
  • Barrier-free pathways (In addition, avoid loose cables or any other tripping hazards in walkways.)
  • Wide doorways and aisles to accommodate wheelchairs/scooters
  • If using a stage, check for ramp access for presenters with mobility issues.

Service Animals – Consider Access and Space for Service Animals

  • Comfortable space for service animals to rest during event
  • Accessible toileting and watering facilities nearby

Inspect the Event Venue in Advance

Look for these features when inspecting your meeting/event space:

Visibility – Consider those with Impaired Sight

  • Clear signage (identifying location and directions; braille and tactile signage should also be available for directional assistance)
  • Well-lit space and adjacent areas
  • Projection screen visible from all seating (if using projection)

Acoustics – Consider those with Hearing Impairments

  • Presenter(s) must use a microphone (see “Logistics” for more information)
  • Caption audio/video (see “Captioning” for more information)
  • Avoid background sound/music that may interfere with event
  • Ensure that seating is available near the presenter(s) for attendees who rely on lip reading
  • Availability of assistive listening devices
  • Well-lit space for a sign language interpreter if needed

Technology – Consider those who may need to use Adaptive Devices

  • Electrical outlets in accessible seating areas to accommodate devices, laptops, etc.
  • Extra space or work surface

Consider those with Neurological Impairments

  • Strobe lighting  may cause seizures for those with neurological impairments. Avoid strobe lighting whenever possible. If strobe lighting is essential to your event, warn attendees prior to its use.

Planning Ahead:

Logistics

At larger events or events with scheduled accommodations, you must designate someone to be responsible for follow-through on accommodation requests, assist with seating, ensure captioning and other technology is working, maintain clear pathways, etc.

Please provide presenters with the following checklist when planning an event:

  • Submit materials in advance so that they can be forwarded to individuals who may not be able to view screens or handouts.
  • Verbally describe visual materials (e.g., slides, charts, etc.).
  • Have printed copies available (in larger font size 15-20; some may even need larger).
  • Avoid using small print on presentations. It may be hard to view.
  • Ensure speakers (including those asking questions) always use a microphone. If you need to temporarily rent microphones for your event, please contact Campus Technology Services.
  • Activate captions on any video used in the presentation.
  • Encourage hourly breaks.

Make sure to repeat questions posed by attendees before responding, especially if attendee is not using a microphone. Although presenters or attendees may express confidence that they are loud enough and do not need a microphone, please advise them to use a microphone.

Food

Clearly indicate allergens and avoid nuts. Provide and label vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. If you receive a request for a food accommodation, you must respond and accommodate the request.

Captioning

All videos used during the event must be captioned.

If your video has captions, toggle the ‘CC’ button in the video player. This will enable the captions.

If the video you plan to project does not have captions, you must caption the video to use it during the event. CCS can assist you with arranging for captioning. Please allow ample time to get your videos captioned as well as to review the captions for accuracy.

Please note that your department is responsible for all costs related to captioning.

ASL Interpreters

If a participant makes a request for an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, you are legally required  to provide one or two, depending on the duration of the event. Also note that if the service is to be provided through a SUNY contract, the vendor must be on the approved list of externally hired vendors.

Emergency Planning

Before the start of any event, the event coordinator must communicate accessible exits and areas of refuge to all attendees. Note that fire and emergency alarms have both audible and visible signals.

Traveling and Off-Campus Events

In addition to the above, if you are traveling to an event:

  • Ensure that off-campus events are accessible.
  • Arrange accommodations in advance for attendees who request them.
  • Use vehicles that are wheelchair accessible.