DDA Audit - HSBC Bank

• Posted by Ian Eggleton on 19th May ’10 at 12:55 BST
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DDA Audit Case Study of bulk audit project for HSBC Bank

Evans Jones’ first experience of Access Audit work came from our relationship with HSBC Bank. HSBC approached us in 1997 to work with them in auditing around 200 of their branches across the south and south west of England to establish their accessibility in order to enable HSBC to plan for adjustive works leading up to the much publicised deadline for the removal of physical barriers in October 2004.

The first phase was the completion of 200 audits over a widespread area to a very challenging timescale. Evans Jones team of surveyors spent many weeks travelling the length and breadth of the country completing these audits and collating the results.

To achieve consistency of results we worked to a very standardised audit format and process with agreed benchmarks to achieve for each branch.

Following completion of this exercise we were then appointed to design, procure and manage adjustive works to around 40 branches across the south which enabled us to fully utilise the range of skills we can offer in house as Architects, Surveyors and Planning Consultants.

As many branches were sited in high street locations in prestigious buildings the main challenges we faced were achieving Listed Building Consent and or Highways consent for the placing of ramps on public highways. Our unique mix of skills allowed us to deliver these hard won consents with the minimum of wasted time and effort.

This experience has given us a unique insight into the options available to High Street retailers who are committed to making their buildings more accessible and has enabled us to develop strategies for dealing with even the most difficult of sites.

We also learnt how to deliver a bulk auditing program in a timely manner whilst still delivering user friendly information to a client dealing with a large portfolio.

Evans Jones have also completed bulk Access Auditing projects for the following clients; HMV UK Ltd, Visit Heart of England Tourist Board, Arts Council for Wales and The Girls Day School Trust. .

Click on the link to read more about DDA Audits or contact me by email or phone on 01242 531413.