RNIB Access Consultancy Services were delighted in September 2008 to announce the first award of the new RNIB Reference, which recognises accessible and inclusive design in mainstream and care products.
Triton's Safeguard T100 care electric shower is the first recipient of the new accreditation, having worked with RNIB's consultants over a 12 month period to develop the product.
Background
Triton approached RNIB in summer 2007 with a concept design for the shower. The shower had a well-thought out, simple design, with a large start/stop button and a rotary lever to adjust temperature.
Working with RNIB
RNIB's assessment process began with a design consultation between Triton's designers and an RNIB product expert who submitted a report with recommendations. Although the product was good from the outset there was potential to develop it into an inclusive product that could easily be used by all.
Improvements were recommended to the operating instructions, the overall finish, font size, text design, colour contrast, temperature markings, tactile and audible feedback, shower head lever design and the movable spray plate design.
In spring 2008, Triton provided the first prototype to RNIB for user testing. User testing is vital as there is no substitute for watching the product being used. A report was provided to Triton with further recommendations based on the users' comments. Overall the shower was liked, especially as many of the recommendations from the initial design consultation had already been implemented.
Through the summer, Triton worked with RNIB to implement the final recommendations, including enlarging the font and temperature markings, adding tactile elements to the start/stop button and providing the operator instructions in clear print.
In September 2008 the final product was submitted and approved by RNIB, with all recommendations implemented. It is an inclusive product that is likely to be accessible and usable by a wide range of disabled and older people in a care environment.
Benefits for the user
The shower incorporates user friendly details such as a large start/stop button that covers the width of the unit for easy access even when the user is seated. A clearly labelled temperature lever with raised number dial and large text has also been included.
Other important features include an ergonomic showerhead with three extended levers for ease of use by those with reduced manual dexterity, an extended riser rail, colour-contrasting moving parts to help identify the different features, and audible bleeps when the start/stop button is pushed, the low flow indicator operates and the unit switches off.
More about Triton Showers
Triton is the UK brand leader in electric showers and offers a wide range of showering solutions to suit all installations and specifications. Visit www.tritonshowers.co.uk for more information or call 024 7634 4441.
Contact us
RNIB Disability Access Services
PO Box 173
Peterborough
PE2 6WS
Phone: 01733 37 53 70