What is the international symbol of access?
The international symbol of access (ISA) is an internationally recognisable primary information symbol. Its origin dates back to 1969, when it was adopted by the 11th World Congress of Rehabilitation International for use throughout the world to indicate building features that are suitable for people with disabilities.
The ISA design is registered as ISO Standard 7000 1984. As an international standard, the copyright design for style, shape and proportion is protected worldwide 'to identify, mark or show the way to buildings and facilities that are accessible to and usable by all those persons whose mobility is restricted'.
Rehabilitation International provides some guidance on using the ISA, but the procedures for its display and use are managed individually by each country. In New Zealand the ISA is managed by the Barrier Free New Zealand Trust.
Whilst the ISA shows a stylised wheelchair, it does in fact represent all disabilities.
Figure 1 : The international symbol of access
Fig 2 : How to produce the international symbol of access in the correct proportions.