Farah Madon of Vista Access Architects being the lead author of the SDA Design Standard is well placed to assist with the assessment and certification requirements of SDA developments. Once engaged for our services, we provide assessment and certification based on the 12 Steps noted below.

Steps 01 to 07 (shown in yellow) note the procedure involved to assess and certify the drawings and documents for Provisional- Design Certification stage. Steps 08 to 12 (shown in aqua) note the procedure involved to assess and certify the constructed dwelling for Final-as-built Certification stage.

The designed environment that responds to the needs of participants through improved physical access and enhanced provision for participants with sensory, intellectual or cognitive impairment. For example, Improved Liveability dwellings should include one or more additional design features such as luminance contrasts, improved wayfinding and/or lines of sight depending on the needs of the participants.

Resilient but inconspicuous materials such as high impact wall lining, fittings and fixtures (e.g. blinds, door handles), secure windows, doors and external areas, appropriate sound proofing, laminated glass. Layout with areas of egress and retreat for staff and other residents. Adequate space and safeguards throughout the property to accommodate the needs of residents with complex behaviours.

External doors and external outdoor private areas to be accessible by wheelchair, bathroom vanity/hand basin to be accessible in seated or standing position, power supply to doors and windows (blinds), for retrofit of automation as necessary. SIL statement or kitchen sink, cooktop, meal preparation bench area and key appliances to be accessible in seated or standing position

All features noted for ‘Fully Accessible’ + structural provision for ceiling hoists, assistive technology ready, heating/cooling and household communication technology (e.g. video or intercom systems), emergency power solutions to cater for a minimum two hour outage where the welfare of participants is at risk and 950mm minimum clear opening width doors to all habitable rooms.