Hong Kong equality watchdog urges better wheelchair access, services for disabled diners in first practical catering sector guidelines
- Equal Opportunities Commission releases first practical guide for catering industry to help restaurants serve diners who are disabled or have other mobility issues
- Best practices include installing ramps and automatic doors, widening passageways and using adjustable tables, according to non-enforceable guidelines
Hong Kong’s equality watchdog has called on restaurants to install ramps and automatic doors, widen passageways and use adjustable tables in its first practical guide for the catering industry.
The guide, launched by the Equal Opportunities Commission on Monday, outlines best practices for restaurants to serve diners who are disabled or have other mobility issues. Its recommendations were based on the typical client experience from entering a restaurant through to placing orders and eating, the commission said.
Ricky Chu Man-kin, who chairs the commission, said the public was mainly focused on providing transport solutions for people with disabilities.
“In contrast, little attention has been paid to the accessibility of goods, services and facilities provided by restaurants. Therefore, the commission has launched the guide to enhance the public’s understanding of the needs of people with disabilities in restaurants and dining facilities.”
