Principle 1   EQUITABLE USE

The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.

In short, you can use these 'equal opportunity' products in the same or an equal way, no matter what your age, ability, and physical or mental condition. They do not separate users or make some feel different from others. These designs will appeal to everyone, offering the same level of privacy, security, and safety to ALL.

For example:

OXO GOOD GRIPS (kitchen utensils originally designed for older adults): By realizing that people and their body mechanics constantly change (we are only temporarily-ABLED), UD extends the useful life of both the object AND its user.

Designer: Davin Stowell and staff, Smart Design, Inc. for Oxo International, New York, NY.

ROCKER SWITCH: Everyone can operate this switch because the large rocking button is easy to see, then push lightly with a minimum of manual dexterity (e.g., 'hands-free' use with a closed fist or an elbow).

Designer: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Little Neck, NY.