Accessibility barriers are still part of the daily routine of many people with disabilities, reduced mobility, or specific needs. Identifying these obstacles is the first step toward improving environments, services, and attitudes.
Below, we have gathered three frequent warning signs and practical guidance on how to document and report each situation, with a focus on inclusion, respect, and collaboration.
Warning Sign 1: Absence or failure of essential physical access
Stairs without an alternative, overly steep ramps, narrow doors, or uneven sidewalks are examples of physical barriers that prevent autonomous use of spaces.
What to observe and how to document
- Exact location and type of obstacle (entrance, internal circulation, restrooms, surroundings) - Everyday conditions of use (slope, width, level differences) - Date, time, and context in which the barrier was noticed
Recording with photos or objective notes helps describe the problem clearly, avoiding personal judgments.
Warning Sign 2: Inaccessible or exclusionary communication
Information presented only in small text, absence of visual, auditory, or tactile resources, and complex language can exclude people with different communication needs.
What to observe and how to document
- Type of information that is unavailable or difficult to understand - Affected audience (people with visual, hearing, intellectual disabilities, older adults) - Situations in which the lack of accessibility compromised understanding
Describing the practical impact of the communication failure contributes to more inclusive solutions.
Warning Sign 3: Unprepared service or ableist attitudes
Even when a space is accessible, inappropriate attitudes and procedures can create invisible barriers, such as refusal of assistance, infantilization, or lack of listening.
What to observe and how to document
- Behaviors or statements that hindered service - Lack of clear procedures to meet different needs - Repetition of the problem on more than one occasion
Objective reports, without exposing individuals, help keep the focus on service improvement.
Common channels for reporting barriers in Brazil
After documenting, it is important to choose appropriate channels for the report:
- Ombudsman offices of public agencies and companies - Citizen service departments in city halls and state governments - Local accessibility and inclusion councils or committees - Direct managers of establishments or condominiums
Prioritizing institutional channels increases the chances of proper follow-up.
Good practices for an inclusive and constructive report
- Use clear, respectful, and objective language - Focus on the situation and its impact, not on assigning blame - Suggest alternatives or improvements when possible - Keep records and service reference numbers
Documenting and reporting accessibility barriers is a form of social participation. Small actions, taken with care and information, contribute to more inclusive environments for everyone.
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