Chemist Warehouse Accessibility Report

Our Accessibility report’s provide mandatory design compliance justification and form an integral part of a Building Consent application for Chemist Warehouse fitouts. Over the last 6 years Chemist Warehouse has grown to be one of NZ’s largest Community Pharmacy Groups with over 50 Pharmacies across the country and continues to grow to meet demand. They are proudly NZ owned & operated and pride themselves in their commitment and dedication to making healthcare more accessible than ever before.

Farsight NZ are proud to be involved with the store fitouts throughout the country by providing technical advice and support during their Building Approval process.

The Challenge:

In New Zealand, alterations to existing buildings must consider upgrade provisions for key Building Code requirements. It is an important function of the Building Act 2004, to ensure that buildings continue to consider the provision of key functions and amenities as they are updated.  Commercial fitouts face several challenges related to accessibility (provision of persons with disabilities). These challenges stem from legal requirements, practical design considerations, and the desire to create inclusive spaces that accommodate people of all abilities. All of this must be considered within a budget and a project timeframe.

Some key challenges are: –

* Ensuring commercial spaces comply with the provisions of the building code to the extent necessary for accessible routes, signages, doorways, ramps, and sanitary facilities etc.

* Adhering to the appropriate standards where needed (i.e., NZS 4121:2001 Access and Provision for Persons with Disabilities)

* Integrating accessibility features without compromising design.

* Retrofitting older buildings where space is limited.

In short: accessible design can be complex and costly if not considered thoroughly early within the design phase.

How Farsight NZ Helped:

Farsight NZ has a proud and long-standing working relationship with Chemist Warehouse. We work directly and closely with their main contractor GN Construction. During our involvement, we provide design recommendation to the design team at the early stages of design. We assist the project design team with assessing various sites and provide advice specific but not limited to accessible routes, front of house areas, back of house, between the aisles, and checkouts etc.

Our Accessibility report’s form part an integral part of a Building Consent application. Although, this is not a ‘For Construction’ document, we work with the contractor to ensure the requirements of the report become practical, achievable and compliant on site.

We are pleased to say we have completed 43 reports to date, and only received one minor “Request for Further information” (RFIs) on one occasion during the consenting process. This contributes to the fast process for getting the consent issued.

The Outcome:

During the collaboration with the project team, we work hard to ensure the project team have both clear guidance to work from and confidence in meeting the legal requirement.

Obtaining a professional accessibility report is a strategic investment that ensures compliance, enhances user experience, and supports long-term business success. Our service provides the GN Construction project team, Building Owner, and Chemist Warehouse with confidence for creating more inclusive and welcoming environments for all individuals, enhancing their customer base and employee satisfaction.

Contact Farsight today to help you with your project!