Case Study
Barrier-free design of the access route to the workplace for an orthopaedic technician

The company and its four employees sell rehabilitation products and have an orthopaedic workshop where assistive products are specially adapted to customers' disabilities. It has recently moved to another building.

The man has a hip and knee joint disorder, a shortened right leg and a spinal disorder with spondylolisthesis. The illnesses lead to restrictions when walking and climbing stairs. The man is still able to walk short distances, but in the foreseeable future he will be dependent on the constant use of a wheelchair. The GdB (degree of disability) is 80.

The man is a trained orthopaedic technician and has been working for the company for several years.

The orthopaedic technician manufactures and adapts assistive products, such as prostheses or wheelchairs. He also maintains and repairs orthopaedic and rehabilitation technology products.

When the company moved to its new premises, the orthopaedic technology mechanic had problems reaching his workplace on the upper floor of the building due to his disability, as there is no lift.
A stairlift with a platform (inclined lift) was installed in the stairwell so that the orthopaedic technology mechanic can reach his workplace independently without any problems. Due to the small stairwell, it is not possible to install a vertical elevator. The installation of a stairlift with a platform was therefore the only way for the orthopaedic technician to reach the upper floor and his workplace. The stairlift has a fully automatic folding platform that can be operated at the touch of a button. It is also equipped with fall protection. Later, the orthopaedic technician will also be able to use it with a wheelchair.

The design suitable for disabled people was supported by the Integration and Inclusion Office. Advice was provided by the Technical Advisory Service of the Integration and Inclusion Office.