Survey of the Disabled Community on the Appropriateness of Spaces in Office Entrances (Case Study: Rud Zard Machin City)

Subject Areas : Geography and Urban Planning

Dr.abbas maroofnezhad ¹

1 - Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Mahs.C., Islamic Azad University, Mahshahr, Iran.

Received: 2025-04-06 Accepted : 2025-07-21 Published : 2025-09-23

Keywords: Appropriateness, Urban Space, Satisfaction Level, Disabled Community, Rud Zard Machin City,

Abstract :

Abstract

Disabled people like other people have the right to move easily in urban spaces, especially in offices, hospitals and sidewalks without facing problems or obstacles. The failure to comply with the rules of appropriateness and the removal of architectural barriers in the city has created numerous issues for disabled people, war damaged veterans, people with disabilities, the elderly and others. This research was conducted with the aim to assess the views of disabled people regarding the appropriateness of spaces in office entrances in Rud Zard Machin City. The research method is descriptive-analytical and applied research based on the nature of the subject and goals. The statistical population disabled people and war damaged veterans from Rud Zard Machin City was    randomly selected 100 people. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to analyze the data. Inferential operations were conducted using Excel and SPSS software that T-test and TOPSIS fuzzy were applied to analysis them. The research findings indicate that based on the results of the T-test, the overall average obtained (4.70) which is greater than the average (3). In addition, based on  the fuzzy TOPSIS analysis the index for creating sloped surfaces (ramps) at the entrances of public centers with a relative weight of (0.756), the index for the levelness of the building entrance with the sidewalk with a relative weight of (0.747), and the index of using non-slip mats on the floors of restrooms with relative weight of (0.635) were ranked first to third, respectively.

Keywords: Appropriateness, Urban Space, Satisfaction Level, Disabled Community, Rud Zard Machin City

 

Extended Abstract

Introduction

The unrestricted use of urban spaces is a fundamental right of citizenship. Individuals with sensory and mobility limitations demand urban services that are appropriate for their conditions due to their sensory organs. Considering the large number of people with disabilities, as well as the increase in traffic accidents and other unexpected events that contribute to the rising number of disabled people, it is essential to scientifically address the needs and challenges faced by these individuals. Today, the work environment in office buildings has become more importance than ever. Consequently, attention has been paid to how design the work environment. Employees spend more than one-third of their daily time in their workplaces. Therefore, it is crucial to implement suitable solutions to meet the physical and psychological needs of employees and enhance comfort in work environments. The physical conditions of an office building play a significant role in the satisfaction and comfort of both employees and visitors.

 Data and Method

This research is a descriptive-analytical type and applied research based on the nature of the subject and goals. The statistical population consists of the disabled and war damaged veterans in the city of Rudzard Machin. Due to the lack of access to accurate statistics on the number of disabled people 100 individuals were randomly selected. In the present study descriptive and inferential statistical methods have been applied for data analysis and to clarify and refine the data at the descriptive level, frequency distribution indices, average and standard deviation have been used. Inferential operations have been performed using Excel and SPSS software which were analyzed using T-test and TOPSIS fuzzy analysis for their analysis.

 Results and Discussion

A significant part of the urban landscape in cities across the country, such as Rudzard Machine still requires proper and principal manner; because some of the measures have not been effective due to the failure to adhere to certain standards and have not yielded desirable results and in the parts  where no action  have been taken in terms of  adaption people with  physical  disabilities unable to utilize sidewalks and in general , public spaces in streets and squares for movement and dangers constantly threaten them . Issues such as inadequate paving, the absence of warning signs for the disabled, lack of appropriate facilities and equipment for people with disability, unsuitable entrances to public places are among the challenges currently faced by most offices in Rudzard Machine city. The total of these factors has created a chaotic and unhealthy environment for various social groups, particularly for people with physical and mobility disabilities. This undesirable situation requires a precise and coherent planning approach to improve the current situation, enhance safety and comfort and finally create a lively and joyful social environment with the presence of physical and mobility disabilities.

 Conclusion

Based on the results of the T-test, the overall average was (4.70) which is greater than the average (3). In addition, based on the results of the fuzzy TOPSIS analysis, the index for creating sloped surfaces (ramps) at the entrances of public centers with a relative weight of (0.756), the index for the levelness of building entrances with sidewalks, with a relative weight of (0.747), and the index of using non-slip mats on the floors of restrooms with relative weight of (0.635) were ranked first to third, respectively. The final results of this research indicate that the city of Rud Zard has inappropriate conditions and numerous issues and problems in the field of urban furniture, equipment and spaces (entrances of offices) for people with disabilities. The concepts of accessibility and the adaptation of office entrance spaces have more importance for people with disabilities and impairments. In recent years, there has been a lack of attention to the issue of adaptation in our country. However, in recent years, there has been increased attention to this matter by the authorities. It is hoped that with the increase in adapted spaces in the city, we will witness an increase in the presence of people with disabilities.

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