Hacks for Accident Prevention in Harm Reduction Services & Spaces
Disability Awareness
A disproportionate number of people who suffer from a disordered relationship with substances also suffer from a physical disability. By some estimates, twice as many people who use drugs have a physical disability as the rest of the population. Because of this, it’s essential that harm reduction organizations think carefully about the disability-related accommodations their spaces make for people who might have physical limitations. This especially includes physical accommodations and communication accommodations.
These accommodations include:
Building Entrances and Exits: Ensure that entrances and exits are at least 32 inches wide. This is the standard necessary for a wheelchair to pass. Doorways should also be clearly marked with signage.
Walkways: Ensure that pathways are clear and at least 36 inches wide for wheelchair access.
Restrooms: Ensure restrooms have accessible stalls, sinks, and fixtures.
Seating: Try to ensure that there’s always at least some seating available for people who have trouble standing for long periods of time.
Signage: Provide signage that is clear, visible, and in braille where possible, for easy navigation.
Assistive Technology: If possible, offer assistive listening devices, captioning services, and other technologies to aid communication for individuals with hearing or vision impairments.
Information and Communication: Ensure that information and communication, including websites, are accessible to people with disabilities (e.g., screen reader compatibility, captioned videos). Make use of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines when designing websites.
Language Accessibility: Though not disability accessibility per se, language accessibility is still critical. Make signage, paperwork, and educational materials available in common non-English languages like Spanish or whatever is most common in your community. For languages that are less common in your community, think about using a live translation service like the Language Line.
Parking: If applicable, provide designated accessible parking spaces with proper signage and access aisles.
Featured Hacks
These featured hacks highlight creative, practical solutions from harm reduction leaders on the ground. From DIY tools to clever workarounds, each one reflects the ingenuity, care, and real-world experience that keeps this movement alive.