Candidates in the upcoming election are being urged to ensure that their posters do not pose a safety hazard for people who are blind or vision impaired.
Vision Ireland, the new name for NCBI, is calling on all general election candidates, and future election candidates, to consider people who are blind or vision impaired when hanging up their posters.
As part of Vision Ireland’s Clear Our Path’s campaign, a survey found that 77% of respondents who are blind or vision impaired have been injured by footpath obstacles.
When these posters are placed below the regulation height of 2.3 metres, they create serious safety issues, and dramatically increase the risk of injury to people who are blind or vision impaired.
The sharp corners and edges of posters can cause cuts or lacerations to the face, with protruding cable ties also presenting an issue.
Kevin Kelly, Head of Policy, Partnerships and External Affairs with Vision Ireland, said, “It is unacceptable that some election candidates are continuing to create these hazards for people who are blind or vision impaired.”
“The law is very clear that these posters must be placed a minimum of 2.3 metres (7.5 ft) from the ground. Yet, year on year, we see that this is ignored by candidates and they continue to put people at risk.”
“By adhering to the law and placing election posters above the specified height, candidates can convey a genuine sense of responsibility and understanding to people who are blind or vision impaired. This is a matter of public safety and should be taken seriously.”
Vision Ireland states that posters which people see hung below the required height of 2.3 metres should be reported to the local authority o they can be removed and disposed of.
