Govt review looks at building access for disabled people

For years disabled people, their families and other people in the sector have raised issues. Photo / Thinkstock

A review into building access for disabled people has begun, the Government said today.

Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson and Disability Issues Minister Tariana Turia said the review will look at how the standard which outlines how people with disabilities can access buildings aligns with the Building Code and how the code represents the needs of disabled people.

"This work has come out of recent announcements on earthquake-prone building policy, particularly around upgrading buildings with regard to access for disabled people,'' Mr Williamson said.

Mrs Turia said it was not acceptable that disabled people were excluded from working and living in buildings because the access was inadequate, unsafe or unsuitable.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is leading the review of Standard 4121 and would look at the regulatory situation and consult with interest groups.