Posts Tagged ‘Ramp’

Annual Review 2018 – Part 2 Mallorca

Monday, December 31st, 2018

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Simply Great Part VIII

Tuesday, February 14th, 2017

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As previously reported, in October a new front door got installed (see older blog.) The new door now has a 3 cm high sill, even though it was known that I am a wheelchair user. I ordered and paid for a power remote control to open the door, but still was not able to make it to the entrance by myself. The floor at the entrance used to be leveled.

OK, this was totally my fault! How could I order an electric door opener without mentioning that I would like to leave the house once in a while, duh ;) Contract properly fulfilled. Set six!

After only seven weeks the electrical door opener eventually started working – just in time for Christmas, yay!

Such quality work I have experienced quite often in recent years. Are there really no more professionals? Have they become an extinct species? I maintain that our former service team still consisted of highly professional people!

Since the manufacturer of the door did not provide anything to overcome the threshold (this would be unthinkable in the USA), I had to order a fitting aluminum plate on the Internet.

My former colleagues immediately agreed to prepare and drill for installation. It looks so simple, but it really isn’t. The difficulty lies in the detail. During the briefing I already felt like being back at work – before the accident in 2007; we certainly spoke the same language.

Within a week they had those plates properly installed – couldn’t go/roll any better!
Never was I put off or did have to call after them – they just did it!

During the installation in record time I almost cried tears for joy! Everybody knew exactly what they were doing and they also brought the right tools along.
Thanks again, you guys are great!

You see, they are still around, those professionals! Only to find them is harder than a scavenger hunt at jungle camp.

Also many thanks to all my neighbors for their approval to allow me to do all these necessary modifications – in particular the installation of the stair lift and the rail at the house in 2008 (see older blog.)

Now I am only waiting, actually since May 2016, for a light to be installed next to the ramp at the front door. Meanwhile I have changed electricians. Maybe the “enlightenment” is going to happen this year 

To read all the articles of the “Just great series” . click here.

Translator BW

Eigude Shame XXXI

Tuesday, November 1st, 2016

Sorry, this entry is only available in Deutsch.

Chock Part XV

Friday, February 19th, 2016

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Paper chase in district court

Yesterday I had some business at the district court in my hometown Frankfurt. Public buildings should by now be all accessible, but I had to go to building A, an old venerable building from 1889. At that time there wasn’t much concern about accessibility…


Quelle: wvs-ffm.de

So I called in advance and got the information that in order to avoid steps I had to enter though building E to get to building A. First, at security control I had to hand over my set of wrenches, one that every experienced wheelchair driver always has on board. Perhaps I could kill someone or gouge out someone’s eyes?!?


Quelle: Hornbach

So off to building E, into the elevator, up to the 1. floor. Then through the dusty hallways, follow the signs “transition to building A” – almost like in a scavenger hunt! At some point I stood in front of this ramp… positive thought first: there is a ramp, yay! However, it is significantly steeper than the specified 6% according to DIN180 40-1… and also a little steeper than the training course at rehab. Although, I know some wheelies, that would have a blast down this “Rolli slide”!

Then continue the search for the next elevator, back down to the ground floor. Then find the right room… fortunately it was the last door before the next steps.

Somehow we found our way back, but not before landing in a cul-de-sac first ……

Next time I’ll scatter breadcrumbs!!!

Translator BL

 

Chock Part XIV

Monday, March 9th, 2015

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Frankfurter Straßenverkehrsamt (Frankfurt Department of Transportation, FDT)

” finally lowers new “lowered pavement”… !!!

Everybody who is somewhat familiar with Frankfurt am Main knows that the new tram line 17 that was built in the district of Sachsenhausen is running since January.

During the construction months the big intersection Stresemannallee-Kennedyallee, to which I live close by, became an “adventure playground” for people like me.

From the beginning barrier-free construction was planned, of which in the next few years I should benefit greatly. The city of Frankfurt and the Dept. for Public Transportation is currently investing millions for the accessibility, what is absolutely commendable.

However, back in November I was kind of speechless, when I tried to cross the street with the Rolli and couldn’t make it up the “supposedly” lowered curb of one of those main traffic islands.

On the left side the curb was at least 10 cm high and inclined to about 5 cm, so that the Rolli was on three wheels only and I almost unintentionally had to leave my vehicle.

So I went by the running traffic on the bicycle lane next to the island, which was more like a daring challenge for a wheeler…

On the other side of the same island a “specialist” ever so skillfully sawed off a piece of the curb, which made me fear the sharp edge could cause a flat tire.

I approached the construction workers several times and the engineer in charge called me at home to discuss my complaint. He promised to look into the matter, but nothing happened for weeks.

Once in a while I inquired with the Frankfurt Straßenverkehrsamt (FDT), but as I now know they were not directly responsible for the traffic island.

By the end of February, the curb unfortunately had not automatically lowered itself; I had a dentist appointment and once again needed to use the intersection.

With some reservations I took the bike lane again, when a car went by so awfully close that I felt its side mirror on my jacket.

That was too much!
With a bit of effort I managed to get a competent clerk of the FDT on the phone and explained to her how dangerous the current status is.
Ten days later I was once again at my “favorite” intersection. Much to my surprise the traffic island had been completely revised. Thanks to Mrs. R. from this sit!

Look at the difference, I am delighted.

The piece of curb “lowered by saw” I will submit to the city as a sample, lol … !!!! ;-)

Because of somebody’s effort, the other side of the curb was also replaced.

In the last few years I have seen time and time again, that everybody can make a difference. If you see deficiencies speak with the people in charge. Often it is easier to change something than you might think.

Click here on “Eigude Shame” for similar stories.

Translator BW

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Translator BW

Addendum I capitulate…!!!

Tuesday, September 16th, 2014

Sorry, this entry is only available in 中文 and Deutsch.

Eigude Shame Part XXV

Thursday, July 31st, 2014

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I capitulate…!!!

Tuesday, May 27th, 2014

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Simply great! Part VI

Friday, May 16th, 2014

Sorry, this entry is only available in 中文 and Deutsch.

Addendum Simply Great Part VI

Tuesday, June 4th, 2013

Sorry, this entry is only available in Deutsch.

Simply Great Part VI

Saturday, May 25th, 2013

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One ramp more in Frankfurt!

As a Christmas present from my parents, I had received tickets for a Sunday brunch on the river Main with one of the pleasure boats of the Primusline in Frankfurt.

I hardly need to mention that my parents clarify in advance if I can access the boat in my wheelchair or not.

A couple of weeks ago the time had come, and I stood in my wheelchair next to the old Main bridge in front of a recently renovated, red sandstone stairway, certainly placed under preservation order.

This reminded with its steep “stroller rails” a bit of a ski jump which would involuntarily end up in a backflip of Aaron Fotheringham style. Look at the videos, incredible, a backflip sitting in a wheelchair…!!!

So far the boat went according to the captain around 20 m upfront on the landing place after the passengers had gone on board. There the wheelchair and rollator users could get quite smoothly over the gangway and with only two stairs on the pleasure boat. This is currently not possible due to a construction site. The accessibility of the boat with a heavy electric wheelchair should be clarified upfront.

So now I was standing with my ticket at the top of the stairway and enjoyed the view on the river while the other guests were boarding!!!

The crew was not allowed to carry me down the stairway due to insurance reasons. After a conversation with the owner, why they sold tickets to wheelchair users when an access to the boat was not possible I suddenly got little wings, and I was on deck. ;-)

The food was nice, and the 3-hour-trip with the Primusline with my family was enjoyable.

Three weeks later I was again on my way at the waterside of the river Main, and I just thought “STRIKE”…

Almost unbelievable, within around 14 days a ramp had been built!!!!

This ramp is indeed steeper than the favoured 6%, but this wouldn’t have been possible from a constructional point, otherwise with a flatter angle the feet would have gotten wet. Therefore the use at your own risk is advised several times.

Now even the tables of the café on the landing place are accessible.

The welded ramp is with non-slip grating and two stable hand rails built very well according to my understanding.
The locksmith has probably gone through an additional nightshift.

I would like to personally thank the responsible people how fast they reacted and arranged the building of the ramp… Chapeau!!!

I can only point out again and again, if you notice a deficit, contact the responsible people constructively. Surprisingly you get feedback quite often, and with regard to the following measures: Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose… But this should not discourage you, if sometimes nothing happens – therefore maybe next time!

Look at the following examples:

Disabled parking place in underground parking lot

Improvement labelling disabled parking place

Curb removal

Assistance bulky luggage Frankfurt airport

Passing prohibited for wheelchair users

Polling place ramp – failed… well, it’s the thought that counts…

Translator BL

 

One ramp more in Frankfurt!

As a Christmas present from my parents, I had received tickets for a Sunday brunch on the river Main with one of the pleasure boats of the Primusline in Frankfurt.

I hardly need to mention that my parents clarify in advance if I can access the boat in my wheelchair or not.

A couple of weeks ago the time had come, and I stood in my wheelchair next to the old Main bridge in front of a recently renovated, red sandstone stairway, certainly placed under preservation order.

This reminded with its steep “stroller rails” a bit of a ski jump which would involuntarily end up in a backflip of Aaron Fotheringham style. Look at the videos, incredible, a backflip sitting in a wheelchair…!!!

So far the boat went according to the captain around 20 m upfront on the landing place after the passengers had gone on board. There the wheelchair and rollator users could get quite smoothly over the gangway and with only two stairs on the pleasure boat. This is currently not possible due to a construction site. The accessibility of the boat with a heavy electric wheelchair should be clarified upfront.

So now I was standing with my ticket at the top of the stairway and enjoyed the view on the river while the other guests were boarding!!!

The crew was not allowed to carry me down the stairway due to insurance reasons. After a conversation with the owner, why they sold tickets to wheelchair users when an access to the boat was not possible I suddenly got little wings, and I was on deck. ;-)

The food was nice, and the 3-hour-trip with the Primusline with my family was enjoyable.

Three weeks later I was again on my way at the waterside of the river Main, and I just thought “STRIKE”…

Almost unbelievable, within around 14 days a ramp had been built!!!!

This ramp is indeed steeper than the favoured 6%, but this wouldn’t have been possible from a constructional point, otherwise with a flatter angle the feet would have gotten wet. Therefore the use at your own risk is advised several times.

Now even the tables of the café on the landing place are accessible.

The welded ramp is with non-slip grating and two stable hand rails built very well according to my understanding.
The locksmith has probably gone through an additional nightshift.

I would like to personally thank the responsible people how fast they reacted and arranged the building of the ramp… Chapeau!!!

I can only point out again and again, if you notice a deficit, contact the responsible people constructively. Surprisingly you get feedback quite often, and with regard to the following measures: Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose… But this should not discourage you, if sometimes nothing happens – therefore maybe next time!

Look at the following examples:

Disabled parking place in underground parking lot

Improvement labelling disabled parking place

Curb removal

Assistance bulky luggage Frankfurt airport

Passing prohibited for wheelchair users

Polling place ramp – failed… well, it’s the thought that counts…

Translator BL

Eigude Shame XXIV

Sunday, January 27th, 2013

Frontpage

It is always interesting how my environment is making an effort that my blood pressure doesn’t permanently remain at a low level.

Recently I wanted to go, as it is a Hobbit tradition, to a Punch and Judy show, or rather a show of the Kikiriki Theatre (puppet theatre for adults) in the “Union-Halle” in Frankfurt.

I drove with my car until the gate of the Union premises and asked the gatekeeper (since I am in the wheelchair even gate keepers are usually quite friendly) for admission onto the premises, hoping that I could park near the hall entrance.

He refused in spite of several requests and relegated me to the quite new Union car park which would be located at the rear side of the former brewery ground.

At last a conscientious employee who consequently adheres to his guidelines. He exemplified “Inclusion”, nobody was privileged, to say:

“You’re not coming in!”

I asked him several times if there are disabled parking places. The disabled parking permit behind the windscreen and my wheelchair behind me in the car could hardly be ignored.

When I stood in front of the car park I had to discover with surprise that steel brackets were raised on the two disabled parking places in front of the car park.

It is a mystery to me how you turn down the brackets, maybe I should have tried it with the European disabled toilet key, or with the password “Little bracket duck yourself!”

I don’t know…, I surely don’t have to get out of the car before, any ideas? Please write a comment.

If I have seen it correctly there are two stairs at the entrance/exit of the new car park, these are nice to look at for a wheelchair user like me, but the usage of the car park is therefore very limited.

I found a suitable parking place on the other side of the street.

After I got out of the car at last and sat in my wheelchair again I missed a lowered curb nearby.
I rolled on the street to the alleged rear entrance of the Union premises which wasn’t exactly safe, there my wife helped me over the curb between the parking cars.

Then… I stood in front of it,… a beautiful steep concrete staircase with seven stairs, I was quite speechless, and this happens very rarely.

I could imagine that the usage of the staircase with the missing handrails has already caused difficulties for some partially walking disabled guest of the “King Kamehameha Club” which is located on the same premises ;-)

I assumed that there might be an underground access from the car park to the premises, why the gatekeeper should have sent me there otherwise? This was not the case.

In the end my called-up companions (we were a group with theatre tickets) carried me up the stairs. I hate these soaring flights…!!!

I spared myself to point out to the gatekeeper his “great advice” with the car park. Was probably better for both sides.

When I finally stood in front of the entrance of the hall I wasn’t too surprised about the aluminium ramp because I had used it once four years ago, however I was hoping that it maybe had flattened a bit in the meantime…

The ramp winter service probably had its company holidays this week, otherwise the ice and snow on the 25° ramp (max. 6% gradient are normal) are not explicable.

With combined pushing efforts I arrived upstairs at the entrance after all.

It reminded me a bit of a ski jump!

After this precedent “expedition” my laughter to the jokes in the theatre was a bit more modest. I was thinking already about my way back.

After the show my companions decided with me that it would be saver to carry me down the entrance stairs instead of using the “jump” again.

With such training conditions we should consider to introduce wheelchair ski jumping at the Paralympic winter games!

A contact approach with a person in charge is in process ;-)

Click on tag “ramp” to read other nice stories.

Translator BL

Eigude Shame XXIII

Friday, January 4th, 2013

Frontpage

Wheelchair Ramp Reopening

On November 25th 2012 a stone from the facade of my usual post office branch in Frankfurt hit a pedestrian on the back.

Thereupon a scaffold was put up extremely creative as protection against falling stones.

A local newspaper from Frankfurt reported this incident on December 9th 2012 with the headline:

Little stone, big trouble

for reference click here

I got the tip from a friend to have a closer look at the protective roofing.

The scaffold was put up so clever probably only to protect us wheelchair users so that the ramp next to the stairs to the entrance of the post office is not accessible with wheels since 4 weeks.

Which wheeler wants to go the post office before Christmas anyway???

I have already written a blogpost about this ramp some time ago see older blogpost.

Yesterday I made a little excursion to this post office, of course only to purchase the new 58 cent stamps. ;-)

In front of the building I had a heated dispute with a pedestrian, if his car blocked only one or two disabled parking places. I could not get out of my car, it was probably better that way.

From an unverified source I learnt that a report due to parking violation in front of a post office yesterday would be initiated against this disabled parking place occupier.

Well then, to my surprise I noticed that the ramp was accessible for wheelers without problems. Where was the coup of the fools at work?

From a post employee I learnt that the ramp was “reopened” a couple of hours before after four weeks.

When I was sitting in my car again I saw that a pedestrian apparently bumped his head at the upper scaffold bar when he was walking down the ramp with wife and stroller.

I don’t know how high the crossbar is, I fitted through below ;-)

I already expect the next article in the local newspaper.

Translator BL

 

Wheelchair Ramp Reopening

On November 25th 2012 a stone from the facade of my usual post office branch in Frankfurt hit a pedestrian on the back.

Thereupon a scaffold was put up extremely creative as protection against falling stones.

A local newspaper from Frankfurt reported this incident on December 9th 2012 with the headline:

Little stone, big trouble

for reference click here

I got the tip from a friend to have a closer look at the protective roofing.

The scaffold was put up so clever probably only to protect us wheelchair users so that the ramp next to the stairs to the entrance of the post office is not accessible with wheels since 4 weeks.

Which wheeler wants to go the post office before Christmas anyway???

I have already written a blogpost about this ramp some time ago see older blogpost.

Yesterday I made a little excursion to this post office, of course only to purchase the new 58 cent stamps. ;-)

In front of the building I had a heated dispute with a pedestrian, if his car blocked only one or two disabled parking places. I could not get out of my car, it was probably better that way.

From an unverified source I learnt that a report due to parking violation in front of a post office yesterday would be initiated against this disabled parking place occupier.

Well then, to my surprise I noticed that the ramp was accessible for wheelers without problems. Where was the coup of the fools at work?

From a post employee I learnt that the ramp was “reopened” a couple of hours before after four weeks.

When I was sitting in my car again I saw that a pedestrian apparently bumped his head at the upper scaffold bar when he was walking down the ramp with wife and stroller.

I don’t know how high the crossbar is, I fitted through below ;-)

I already expect the next article in the local newspaper.

Translator BL

3. Addendum: Eigude Shame XVIII

Tuesday, August 21st, 2012

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Addendum to blogpost Eigude Shame XVIII from 25.07.12

Other posts: 31.07.12 and 06.08.12

Last week I have heard from my informant in Rödelheim that my favourite sign

Passing prohibited for wheelchair users

at the train station Rödelheim in Frankfurt has been unfortunately removed after three month… sniff… :-(

New sign:

Attention!

Ramp gradient approx. 10% Use at your own risk!

Photo: Rödelheim Blog und P._

The new ramps still aren’t any less steep, and we hope that the lifts will always be running.

But when these are defective at least we wheelchair users are now allowed with kind approval of the city of Frankfurt and the German railway company to most officially tumble down the 10% ramp “at our own risk”.

According to the information of the commissioner for disabled of the city, a flattening of the ramps is not planned.

Allegedly, the ramps would have a floor heating!!!

There is a special blog about the never-ending story of the reconstruction of the train station: Bahnhof-Rödelheim-Blog

Kindly our letter of thanks which was actually referring to the original sign was not removed. Whereas… the text still fits! ;-)

Translator BL

2. Addendum: Eigude Shame XVIII

Monday, August 6th, 2012

Sorry, this entry is only available in Deutsch.