Does your tourism business cater for people who are blind or have vision loss? Offering all these features might not be possible for every business immediately. We urge you to think about how you can incorporate some or all of these attributes to better serve and attract a broader range of visitors.

The following list explains in further detail each of the Vision Attributes that can be added to your Profile.

Braille and tactile signage refers to signs that include raised text or symbols, as well as Braille, to provide essential information accessible to people who are blind or have vision impairments. These signs are often placed in key locations, such as entrances, restrooms, and elevators, allowing individuals with vision loss to navigate your venue independently and safely.

Offering information in large print, such as menus, brochures, or event schedules, ensures that individuals with visual impairments can easily read and access important details about your venue or services.

Supplying audio formats, such as an audio-described map that guides visitors through a museum or audio descriptions of theatrical performances, allows visitors who are blind or have low vision to understand and enjoy their surroundings and activities.

Making communication materials, like visitor guides or event programs, available both online and in hard copy ensures that all visitors can access information in the format that works best for them, whether they prefer digital access or need printed materials.

Using easy-to-read fonts like Helvetica and Arial in signage, such as directional signs or informational posters, makes text clearer and more legible, especially for individuals with visual or cognitive impairments. For instance, using these fonts on entrance signs ensures that all visitors can easily find their way.

Staff training in customer service for individuals with vision loss involves teaching employees how to effectively assist and communicate with guests who are blind or have low vision. This training includes guiding techniques, offering clear verbal instructions, describing surroundings or obstacles, and understanding how to use assistive devices like guide dogs. For example, training staff to describe items on a restaurant menu can make the dining experience more inclusive.

Providing a designated area for assistance dogs to toilet, such as a specific patch of grass or a fenced area, ensures the comfort and convenience of both the dogs and their handlers, supporting a seamless experience for visitors with service animals.

Installing audio-enabled lifts that announce floor levels and other key information helps visitors with visual impairments navigate buildings more independently and safely. For example, a lift in a hotel could announce, "Second floor, conference rooms and gym," helping guests orient themselves.

Including raised tactile buttons in lifts allows individuals with visual impairments to identify and select the correct floor by touch, enhancing accessibility and independence. For instance, a lift could have Braille markings alongside each button to indicate floor numbers.

Ensuring that all stairways are equipped with handrails provides added safety and support for individuals with mobility issues, reducing the risk of falls. For example, a handrail installed on both sides of a staircase in a theater makes it safer for all guests, including those with limited mobility.

Placing Exit signs at a ground level ensures they remain visible in emergency situations, such as during a fire when smoke might obscure high-level signs. For example, illuminated ground-level Exit signs in a hotel hallway can guide all visitors to safety more effectively.

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