Wheelchair Accessibility of Public Building in Colombo Metropolitan Area in Sri Lanka

Access to the built environment is crucial for individuals with disabilities to ensure active participation in community activities, providing them with independence, safety, and dignity. This study assesses the accessibility of public buildings for wheelchair users in Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Using a descriptive cross-sectional study, 60 public buildings, their owners or responsible persons, and wheelchair users were surveyed. Building owners were contacted to assess accessibility using a survey form, and their views on wheelchair user attendance and knowledge about accessibility were recorded through an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Wheelchair users were purposively selected, and their experiences were captured through a semi-structured questionnaire. Results revealed varying compliance levels across building categories, with healthcare facilities scoring highest (mean compliance of 74, SD 8.4) and public utility buildings lowest (46.2, SD 28.3). Entrance accessibility scored highest (mean of 79.7, SD 32.8), while parking accessibility scored lowest (13.5, SD 31.1). A lack of awareness among building owners regarding wheelchair users' independence and legal requirements was noted. Additionally, half of the wheelchair users refrained from visiting public buildings due to architectural barriers. This study highlights the need for further improvements in building accessibility in Colombo. Wheelchair users often encounter architectural barriers, emphasizing the importance of professionals advocating for accessibility to ensure the independence, safety, and dignity of individuals with disabilities.