The following is a list of tools that will be necessary to conduct a complete, accurate evaluation of your building or facility.

Floor Plans and Site Drawings. These are probably the most important tools you can have when conducting a survey. If you can't find drawings, create sketches as you go.

Tape Measure. You will need a 1/2"- or 3/4"-wide 25-foot tape measure for measuring ramps, stairs, door openings and overhanging objects, and other building elements. A 100-foot tape is useful for measuring corridors, ramps, and walks.

Pocket Ruler. A 6-inch ruler is useful for measuring smaller elements such as railing width, lettering height, stair nosing and uneven surfaces.

Clipboard. This is an essential writing surface for filling out forms.

Slope Measuring Tool. You can make a tool with self- constructed wedges and a bubble level, use a yardstick level and ruler, use a protractor or compass along with a level, or use any of several purchased tools. The "Pro Smart Level" is an excellent device for measuring slopes. It is available at hardware and lumber stores for about $130.

Door-Pull Scale. You will need a device to measure the pressure required to open a door. A door pressure gauge costs about $24 or you can make a tool using an accurate fish scale for about $20.

Stopwatch. This is required to determine the sweep-time of doors with automatic closers and the closing time of elevator doors.

Pens and Pencils. Colored pens and pencils with erasers will facilitate the recording of data and make it easier to interpret at a later date. Color notations on maps and plans are much easier to locate.

60" Circle. A pre-cut 60" diameter circle makes it easy to determine if adequate turning radius for wheelchairs is provided. Felt is a good, inexpensive fabric for this or cut one from a shower curtain.

Camera. Occasionally a situation will arise that does not lend itself to written or graphic description. A camera will be useful to record these situations. Be sure to make a note of the camera position and the directions of view on the facility diagram. Also, photographs will provide great documentation for "before" and "after."

This Web site provided by Access by Design