Difficulties Faced by the Wheel Chair Users in Accessing Automated Teller Machine (ATM) : A Case Study

A barrier-free environment is one which enables people with disabilities to move about safely and freely and to be independent functioning member of the society in everyday activities such as procurement of goods and services, community living, employment, and leisure. In India the C.P.W.D Ministry of Urban affairs and employment has detailed the guidelines for making the environment barrier free for People with disability. This case study was carried out to assess the extent of application of these guidelines at an Automatic Teller Machine by evaluating the accessibility for a wheel chair user. Certain specifications were found as per guidelines but problems were identified in ramp slope, ATM height, absence of horizontal surface near entrance and difficulty in leg clearance. A few modifications and use of FACT V like models could enable wheelchair users to be independent in using an ATM.