IS KEY TO DESIGNING A BUILDING THAT CAN BE USED SAFELY BY EVERYONE
The way in which objects or the differences between surfaces are seen is an important factor when considering the fitting or furnishing of a building – especially as the needs of the visually impaired should be taken into account. Having a good contrast between surfaces and objects (such as doors, door handles, edges of stairs or where there is a change in gradient or surface of floors) can overcome issues that prevent people with a reduced level of eyesight from making full use of buildings and their surroundings
We provide light reflectance testing in situ and in laboratory
Grip Doctors provide Light Reflectence Value (LRV) testing to BS 8300:2009+A1:2010 standard with data allowing specifiers for choosing finishes having a good contrast between surfaces and objects -such as doors, door handles, edges of stairs or where there is a change in gradient or surface of floors.
State of the art LRV Testing tools
The use of a hand-held device for the calculation of approximate LRV values may be useful for onsite measurements. Where this is done, the lighting in place at the time measurements are taken may affect the result obtained. As such, details of the lighting should be recorded along with any results for LRV. Colorimeters may also not be suitable for metallic or glossy surfaces, or where the surfaces are curved.
BS 8300:2009+A1:2010
‘Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people – Code of practice’ provides information on what may be considered as acceptable levels of contrast in light reflectance values.
BS 8493:2008+A1:2010
‘Light reflectance value (LRV) of a surface – Method of test’, uses the CIE Y, x, y values measured under standard conditions, with a sphere-type spectrophotometer.
Correct Light Reflectance Value (LRV) Contrast between surfaces, is now a requirement in Building Regulations.
Safetycan be measured
Contact Grip Doctors for free demonstration and advice
