Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers
Kitchen Checklist
Barrier-Free Kitchen Checklist

--Countertops are most useful if their height is varied. For example, a low counter by the sink, for preparing salads or vegetables, is mandatory for a person in a wheelchair but useful for any cook. Leave leg room under countertops, especially at the sink. This can be done by removing the face from sink cabinets or by eliminating sink cabinets altogether.

--Pull-out trays permit better access than standard shelving and doors/drawers on cabinets.

--Do not have countertops and floors of matching colors. There should be a clean color break between the two surfaces, so visually impaired people can distinguish where the counter edge ends.

--Install baskets and swing-out organizers, rather than shelving, in base cabinets. These organizers increase the storage capacity through better organization, while aiding access to needed food items or utensils. Install wall-mounted ovens and microwaves. This allows for installation at the best height for wheelchair access.

--Use electric cooking appliances. Persons with poor sense of smell may not detect gas leaks.

--Buy a cooktop with staggered burners, so you will not have to reach over a hot front burner to get to a back burner.

--Cooktops should have controls at the front or side of the unit, for easy accessibility by a seated person.

--Hot water dispensers at the sink will reduce the danger of burn injuries, simplify snack and beverage preparation.

-- Keep countertop appliances such as toasters or toaster ovens in appliance garages to prevent damage to the appliances or burn injuries to the cook. Do not let appliance cords hang loose; use a rubber band or twist-tie to secure excess cord.

--Equip all kitchen electrical outlets with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).

--If there is no room for a bathroom laundry, consider putting the laundry in the kitchen. An unused pantry can be plumbed to hold stackable laundry appliances.

--Select a floor covering that is both slip-resistant and easily maintained. Consider the institutional vinyls and ceramic tiles before making a final choice.

--Be sure there is adequate task lighting to prevent accidents and burns in the kitchen. High level lighting is a must at the sink and cutting board, and around cooking appliances.

--Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.

Written by Gary Branson
Reprinted with permission. Copyright HouseNet, Inc.

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