Overview - The report highlights the importance of inclusive access in the built environment, emphasizing that accessibility is not only a compliance obligation but also a social mission [30][31][32] - It notes that by 2070, nearly 60% of the global population will reside in urban areas, necessitating accessible environments to accommodate diverse needs [30][31] - The report identifies the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework that includes universal accessibility provisions alongside structural resilience, fire safety, and sustainability [45][46] Introduction - The introduction discusses the evolution of accessibility standards in response to the needs of individuals with varying abilities, particularly following significant social movements post-World Wars [38][42] - It outlines the challenges faced by diverse populations, including the elderly, children, and individuals with disabilities, in accessing built environments [30][31][32] - The report emphasizes the role of global efforts and legislation in shaping accessibility standards to meet the needs of all users [36][42] Goals - The report aims to provide a universal accessibility checklist designed to assist building professionals in enhancing accessibility in the built environment [45][46] - It serves as a practical tool for policymakers and regulatory bodies to evaluate and improve existing accessibility regulations [45][46] - The checklist is intended to be used in conjunction with other modules focusing on fire safety, green building, and structural resilience [47][48] Guidelines for Using the Checklist - A systematic approach is outlined for reviewing accessibility regulations, guiding practitioners through a series of steps to ensure comprehensive evaluations [49][50] - The report stresses the importance of including experts familiar with accessibility issues in the review process to enhance the quality of assessments [50][51] - It provides a framework for identifying gaps in existing regulations and offers technical recommendations for improvement [64][66] Key Concepts in Universal Accessibility Components - The report identifies six key components of universal accessibility in building codes, including access routes, emergency egress, and facilities [72][73] - Each component is broken down into subcomponents, detailing specific requirements for ensuring accessibility in various building types [76][77] - The report emphasizes the need for clear and precise language in regulations to facilitate effective implementation and compliance [57][58]