Checklist
The SenseAble Culture Checklist: A Guide to Getting Started.
This checklist helps cultural spaces like yours take the first steps toward becoming more accessible. It is based on trusted international instruments, including:
How This Tool Helps You
The Accessibility Pre-Planning Checklist is a digital tool designed to help you start your accessibility plan. It helps you find and remove barriers so you can follow important international rules, such as the European Accessibility Act (EAA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
This tool focuses on six main areas:
- Entrance and Facilities: How visitors get into and move around your building.
- Managment and Employment: How well does your organisation integrate accessibility into official long-term plans, annual budgets, and hiring practices.
- Information and Displays: How you ensure information is easy to find and can be understood through different senses, suisch as sight, sound, and touch.
- Staff Skills: How well you team is trained to help visitors with disabilities.
- Digital Barriers: How easy it is for everyone to use your digital platforms.
- Welcoming Practices: How you involve the community in your decisions and how you listen to and work with persons with disabilities.
How to Score Your Progress
You will score each item on a scale from 1 to 5.
- Use Real Proof: Your score should be based on concrete evidence from your daily work, not just opinions.
- Skip What Does Not Apply: If a question is not relevant to your specific building or museum, you can click the skip-arrow to move to the next one.
5 = Excellent: This is a particular strength of our work. It works well in practice, and we regularly check it to find ways to make it even better.
4 = Good: This works well in practice. We are currently taking active steps to develop it further.
3 = Satisfactory: we are currently doing this, but we have not yet checked or evaluated how well it is working.
2 = Below Average: We are discussing this and have plans to start, but there is no real proof of it in our daily work yet.
1 = Poor: This does not exist in our institution. We have not discussed it, and there is no evidence that it is being addressed.
0 = Skip: If this question does not apply to your specific building or museum, you can click the skip-arrow to move to the next one.
About you and your work (Optional)
You do not have to fill out this part. You can choose to answer the questions or skip them. We use this information only to see which countries and organizations are using this tool.
1. Physical Barriers (The Building and Facilities)
This section checks if visitors can arrive, enter, and move around your building easily and safely.
1) Arrival & Transport: Is the institution reachable by accessible public transport, or do you provide information on alternative solutions like community shuttles or accessible carpooling for rural contexts?
2) Access Routes & Entrances: Are the routes to the entrance clearly marked, and is the main entrance step-free with power-assisted doors (or is a clearly signposted accessible alternative available)?
3) Facilities & Wayfinding: Is there tactile signage (Braille/raised letters) throughout the building, and are service counters designed at heights accessible for both sitting and standing visitors?
4) Lighting & Safety: Are all pathways, signs, and exhibition texts evenly and strongly lit (minimum 150 lux) to ensure clear visibility and avoid dangerous shadows or glares?
5) Rest Areas & Sensory Comfort: Are there sturdy chairs with armrests in all gallery spaces, and do you provide a sensory map to help visitors identify areas of potential overload (noise, lights, or smells)?
EXCELLENT
Description
Your building is a model for others. It is very easy to arrive, enter, and move around. You regularly check for barriers. Visitors with sensory disabilities can visit safely on their own.
Recomendations
Share your success with other cultural institutions. Ask disabled visitors to help you find small barriers every year. Try new tools.
See Module 2 (Universal Design) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Design and Tools for Sensory Accessibility» unit of our Online Course if you want to learn more (coming soon).
GOOD
Description
Your building is accessible, and you are working to make it better. There are only small gaps, such as upgrading wayfinding signage, or brightening the hallways.
Recomendations
Review areas where you scored lower. Focus on things like tactile signs and scale models to help people find their way independently.
See Module 2 (Universal Design) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Design and Tools for Sensory Accessibility» unit of our Online Course if you want to learn more.
SATISFACTORY
Description
You have some accessible areas, but they are not the same across the whole building. You have not yet officially checked how well they work.
Recomendations
List what needs fixing in your building. Prioritise the main entrance so everyone can get inside easily.
See Module 2 (Universal Design) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Design and Tools for Sensory Accessibility» unit of our Online Course if you want to learn more (coming soon).
BELOW AVERAGE
Description
You are talking about accessibility, but you have not made physical changes yet. You know there are barriers to fix.
Recomendations
Do a walk-through with a person with disabilities to find the biggest problems. Focus your budget on the entrance and parking first.
See Module 2 (Universal Design) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Design and Tools for Sensory Accessibility» unit of our Online Course if you want to learn more (coming soon).
POOR
Description
You have not yet formally looked at accessibility. There are likely many barriers that make it hard for visitors to use your building.
Recomendations
Use this checklist to do your first check. Ask a local association of persons with disabilities for help. Start with one clear change, like the entrance, to build trust.
See chapter 2 (Universal Design) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Design and Tools for Sensory Accessibility» unit of our Online Course if you want to learn more (coming soon).
THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU
2. Institutional Barriers (Management and Employment)
This section looks at whether accessibility is part of your official plans, budget, and hiring.
1) Strategic Planning: Is accessibility for sensory (and cognitive) disabilities officially integrated into your institution’s main vision, long-range strategies, and annual action plans?
2) Budgeting & Resource Sharing: Do you reserve a specific annual budget for accessibility services? Likewise, do you collaborate with local organisations to share tangible resources (e.g., noise-cancelling headphones or wheelchairs) as a way to offset costs?
3) Procurement Standards: Do you require external contractors (e.g., web designers, exhibition builders) to demonstrate competence and compliance with standards like the European Accessibility Act (EAA)?
4) Inclusive Employment: Do you have active policies that ensure people with diverse backgrounds and disabilities have equal opportunities for recruitment, hiring, and career advancement?
5) Safer Spaces & Sensory Protocols: Does your organisation have official rules to make people feel welcome and safe — for example, a plan to help visitors who get easily overwhelmed by loud sounds or bright lights, or a plan to protect staff who experience harassment or unfair treatment?
EXCELLENT
Description
Accessibility is part of your main goals, budget, and hiring. Your contractors must also meet high standards.
Recomendations
Be a leader in your field. Publish your results and help other cultural institutions improve.
Go to Chapter 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course to learn more (coming soon).
GOOD
Description
You have a plan and a budget for accessibility. You might need to do more to track how many disabled people you hire.
Recomendations
Give every department accessibility targets. Ensure every contract you sign requires accessibility rules.
Go to Chapter 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course of our Online Course to learn more (coming soon).
SATISFACTORY
Description
You talk about accessibility, but it is not always in your budget. You have goals but not always the money to reach them.
Recomendations
Name one staff member to lead accessibility work. Set aside money in your next budget for training and services.
Go to Chapter 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course of our Online Course to learn more (coming soon).
BELOW AVERAGE
Description
You are starting to talk about accessibility, but it is not yet in your official plans or budget.
Recomendations
Explain to your leaders why accessibility is important and required by law. Write a simple accessibility statement.
Go to Chapter 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course to learn more (coming soon).
POOR
Description
Accessibility is not yet in your plans or budget. You have not formally discussed it.
Recomendations
Talk to your leaders about why accessibility matters. Invite a disabled person to speak to management.
Go to Chapter 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course to learn more (coming soon).
THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU
3. Communication Barriers (Information and Displays)
This section ensures that information is easy to find and can be understood through different senses.
1) Multi-sensory Information: Is essential information provided via at least two sensory channels (e.g. text and audio)?
2) Plain Language & Cultural Sensitivity: Are your exhibition texts and brochures written in simple B2-level language without using technical jargon and avoiding stereotypes?
3) Alternative Formats: Do you offer materials in Braille, large print, or screen-reader-compatible digital files?
4) Publicity and Pre-visit Info: Do your advertisements and website clearly list available accessibility services (like quiet hours or a interpretation services)? Do you provide tools like Social Stories to help visitors prepare for their visit?
5) Sensory Environment Alerts: Are visitors warned in advance—both online and on-site—about high noise, flashing lights, or strong smells?
EXCELLENT
Description
You provide info in many ways, like text and audio. You use simple language (B2 level). You always warn visitors about sensory triggers.
Recomendations
Test your materials with persons with disabilities. Try making your info available in more languages.
See Chapter 6 (Multisensory Storytelling) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
GOOD
Description
Most of your communication is accessible. There may be small gaps in expositions, temporary shows or digital content.
Recomendations
Create a checklist for all new expositions and shows. Ensure they all use simple language and alternative formats.
See Chapter 6 (Multisensory Storytelling) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
SATISFACTORY
Description
You have some accessible information, but it is not the same everywhere. People might have to ask for alternative formats.
Recomendations
Make «Simple Language (B2 level)» your standard for all texts addressed to users. Proactively offer materials like Braille.
See Chapter 6 (Multisensory Storytelling) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
BELOW AVERAGE
Description
You know you need accessible communication, but your texts still use difficult words. Visitors are not warned about sensory triggers.
Recomendations
Look at the most important information on your website or printed materials. Rewrite it in simple language.
See Chapter 6 (Multisensory Storytelling) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
POOR
Description
You provide info in only one way, usually written text. There is no consideration for sensory needs.
Recomendations
Rewrite one key flyer in simple language. Add a note on your website about what visitors can expect to see and hear or the services you provide.
See Chapter 6 (Multisensory Storytelling) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU
4. Attitudinal Barriers (Staff Training and Service)
This section evaluates how staff interact with visitors and their level of disability awareness
1) Comprehensive Training: Has all staff (including reception, security, and technical teams) received training on accessibility, diversity, and interacting with people with sensory disabilities?
2) Direct Communication: Are staff trained to speak directly to the visitor (using clear speech and eye contact) rather than only to their companion or interpreter?
3) Basic Sign Language: Are frontline staff members trained in basic Sign Language greetings and simple instructions to facilitate a welcoming environment for deaf visitors?
4) Assistive Tech Competency: Are staff trained to set up and help visitors use devices like hearing induction loops or audio guides?
5) Service Animals Etiquette: Does the staff know how to welcome visitors with assistance dogs, including identifying designated relief areas and offering them water bowls?
EXCELLENT
Description
All your staff are trained to help visitors/users with sensory disabilities. They know how to use assistive tools and speak respectfully.
Recomendations
Keep training your team. Ask visitors/users with disabilities to help with the training. Encourage others in your field to do the same.
For more information,
go to Chapter 7 (Staff Training of the Culture for All Guide and the «Understanding Sensory Impairments» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
GOOD
Description
Your staff are trained and know how to help visitors/users, including with service animals. Some teams might still need more training.
Recomendations
Check that every staff member has been trained. Add a practice session where staff act out helping a visitor/user.
For more information, go to Chapter 7 (Staff Training of the Culture for All Guide and the «Understanding Sensory Impairments» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
SATISFACTORY
Description
Some staff are trained, but they might not be sure how the hearing loop system in your facilities work, for example.
Recomendations
Create a basic training plan for all new staff. Make sure everyone knows how to fix your assistive devices.
For more information, go to Chapter 7 (Staff Training of the Culture for All Guide and the «Understanding Sensory Impairments» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
BELOW AVERAGE
Description
You talk about training, but it is not yet happening for everyone. Visitors/users might get mixed levels of help.
Recomendations
Teach everyone to speak directly to the visitor/user.
For more information, go to Chapter 7 (Staff Training of the Culture for All Guide and the «Understanding Sensory Impairments» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
POOR
Description
You have not yet done training on sensory accessibility. Staff may not know how to help disabled visitors.
Recomendations
Give all front-of-house staff a half-day training session. Create a one-page «cheat sheet» with help tips.
For more information, go to Chapter 7 (Staff Training of the Culture for All Guide and the «Understanding Sensory Impairments» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU
5. Digital Barriers (Web Accessibility)
This section checks if your website follows international standards (WCAG) so everyone can use it.
1) Keyboard Use: Can a visitor navigate and operate all functions of your website using only a keyboard (without a mouse)?
2) Screen Readers: Do all images on the website have Alt-text (hidden descriptions) so blind people can «hear» what is in the picture?
3) Video Access: Do all videos on your website have captions and, if possible, audio descriptions or sign language interpretation alternatives?
3) Customisation: Can users change the contrast and make the text larger on your website without the page breaking?
5) Social Media Accessibility: Are your institution’s social media posts accessible, featuring Alt-text on images, captioned reels, and clear, simple language?
EXCELLENT
Description
Your website meets high standards. It is easy to use with only a keyboard. All videos have captions and audio descriptions.
Recomendations
Check your site against the newest international rules (WCAG 2.2). Test your site with persons with disabilities every year.
See Chapter 5 (WCAG Guidance) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
GOOD
Description
Your website is mostly accessible. There might be some issues with older videos or complex forms.
Recomendations
Use an automated tool to find errors. Focus on fixing your homepage and ticket pages first (in the case of museums or theatres).
See Chapter 5 (WCAG Guidance) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
SATISFACTORY
Description
You have some accessibility features in your website, but you have not tested the site against official standards.
Recomendations
Order a basic audit of your website (or do one yourself). Ensure every new digital contract you sign requires accessibility.
See Chapter 5 (WCAG Guidance) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
BELOW AVERAGE
Description
You want to improve, but your website still has many barriers. It may not follow current accessibility laws.
Recomendations
Fix the biggest problems first. Add «Alt-text» to your main images and captions to your top videos.
See Chapter 5 (WCAG Guidance) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
POOR
Description
Your website has not been checked for accessibility. It is likely very hard for disabled people to use.
Recomendations
This is an urgent issue. Use a free tool to check your site today. Post a note on your site explaining your plan to improve.
See Chapter 5 (WCAG Guidance) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Digital and Content Accessibility Communication» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU
6. Consultation and Feedback (Engagement)
This section follows the «Nothing About Us Without Us» principle by involving the community.
1) Participatory Co-creation: Do you involve people with sensory disabilities as active partners in the design and planning stages of new exhibitions or digital tools?
2) Diverse User Testing: Do you test new resources (such as mobile apps) with users, including those with disabilities?
3) Feedback Channels: Do you offer many ways for visitors to give feedback (such as email, anonymous surveys, and phone)?
4) Advisory Groups: Do you have a regular group of persons with disabilities /stakeholders who help you evaluate your venue’s accessibility every year?
5) Accountability & Improvement: Do you have a clear process to show visitors and community partners how their feedback has been used to make real accessibility changes in your institution?
EXCELLENT
Description
You include persons with disabilities in your planning from the very beginning. Your institution is a leader because you work as equal partners with the community.
Recomendations
Share your methods with other cultural institutions so they can learn from you. Keep looking for ways to make your partners active leaders in your research.
See Module 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
GOOD
Description
You ask for feedback and talk to persons with disabilities often. You have clear ways for people to tell you what they think, but you might not do this for every project.
Recomendations
Make user testing a mandatory rule for every new resource you create. Create a formal schedule for your advisory group to meet and give advice.
See Module 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
SATISFACTORY
Description
You have some ways to get feedback, but you do not do it regularly. Involvement usually happens only as one-off events.
Recomendations
Set up a small group of disabled people to give you advice every year. Ensure that at least one person with a sensory disability tests new tools before they are finished.
See Module 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
BELOW AVERAGE
Description
You are starting to get feedback, but your channels are not easy for everyone to use. You do not have a structured relationship with the community of persons with disabilities yet.
Recomendations
Find an association of persons with disabilities and ask them for help starting a conversation. Make sure your email or phone number for feedback is very easy to find.
See Module 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
POOR
Description
You do not have a plan to involve persons with disabilities yet. Visitors do not have a clear way to share their experiences with you.
Recomendations
Ask one person with a sensory disability to visit and share their thoughts informally. Create a simple email address for feedback and show it clearly at your entrance.
See Module 8 (Evaluation and Feedback) of the Culture for All Guide and the «Engaging with Diverse Audiences» unit of our Online Course (coming soon).
THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU
Final question:
Your Feedback (Optional)
We want to know what you think. Your rating helps us measure if this tool is useful and high-quality.
Overall, how would you rate this checklist for being practical, relevant, and helpful for your work?
(Select from 1 to 5 stars, where 5 stars is Excellent and 1 star is Poor)