COFA

PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS

CLOTHING

TRANSPORTATION

ACCESS BARRIERS

MOBILITY

MEDICAL

PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS

• Restricted Access — A person must request special seating or a different chair, sometimes drawing unwanted attention.
• Limited Access — Some seating options work but are uncomfortable or limited in number.
• Basic Access — Spaces include sturdy, wider seating options.
• Systemic Access — Furniture and layouts are designed from the outset to accommodate a wide range of body sizes.

SPACES DESIGNED FOR PUBLIC USE

Public accommodations include places such as restaurants, hotels, theatres, event venues, and public seating areas. These spaces are often designed without considering larger bodies.

EXAMPLES ACROSS ACCESS LEVELS

• Inaccessibility — Seating is fixed, narrow, or fragile, making it impossible for some fat people to sit safely.

TRANSPORTATION

• Limited Access — Some seating options exist but are inconsistent across vehicles.
• Basic Access — Larger seats or extenders are available when needed.
• Systemic Access — Transportation systems are designed with inclusive seat sizing and spacing.

ACCESS TO TRAVEL SYSTEMS AND VEHICLES

Transportation infrastructure often assumes a narrow range of body sizes.

EXAMPLES ACROSS ACCESS LEVELS

• Inaccessibility — Seat belts, seats, or aisles physically prevent travel.
• Restricted Access — Additional seats must be purchased or special arrangements requested.

MEDICAL

• Limited Access — Some equipment exists but is not consistently available.
• Basic Access — Clinics provide appropriate equipment and respectful care.
• Systemic Access — Healthcare infrastructure routinely accommodates diverse body sizes.

HEALTHCARE ENVIRONMENTS AND EQUIPMENT

Medical environments frequently lack equipment designed for larger bodies.

EXAMPLES ACROSS ACCESS LEVELS

• Inaccessibility — Imaging machines or exam tables cannot support higher weights.
• Restricted Access — Patients must travel to specialised clinics with suitable equipment.

MOBILITY

• Limited Access — Some devices exist but are difficult to obtain.
• Basic Access — Mobility aids and infrastructure support a range of body sizes.
• Systemic Access — Assistive technology and environments are routinely designed inclusively.

MOVEMENT, TERRAIN, AND ASSISTIVE DEVICES

Mobility is influenced by infrastructure, equipment, and access to appropriate support.

EXAMPLES ACROSS ACCESS LEVELS

• Inaccessibility — Mobility aids are unavailable in appropriate sizes or weight limits.
• Restricted Access — Special orders or expensive equipment are required.

CLOTHING

• Limited Access — Some clothing exists but choices are limited or poorly designed.
• Basic Access — Inclusive sizing is available across several brands.
• Systemic Access — Clothing design routinely includes a wide spectrum of body sizes.

ACCESS TO GARMENTS THAT FIT AND FUNCTION

Clothing access shapes participation in work, social life, and everyday activities.

EXAMPLES ACROSS ACCESS LEVELS

• Inaccessibility — Retailers do not stock clothing in larger sizes.
• Restricted Access — Clothing must be specially ordered or custom made.