In the east core of the Palaceside Building, one elevator designed with users with disabilities in mind has begun to run. A green band on the door reads “Priority Elevator,” so it is easy to spot.
A dedicated button to the right of the door calls the car. The time from open to close is set longer so wheelchair users can board and alight more easily. Sensors at the doorway keep the door from closing while people are getting on or off.
Inside, a secondary control panel is placed low enough to press while seated. A rear-wall mirror lets you check people and the door without turning toward the landing.
For people with visual impairments, an auto announcement signals that the door is closing and voices say whether the car is going up or down and which floor it has reached. Broadcasts for earthquake, fire, and power failure are also provided.
For people who cannot hear, when the in-car intercom button is pressed in an emergency and the disaster-prevention center answers, a “Responding” display flashes. That confirms you are in contact with the outside.
After the New Year we plan to start one priority elevator in the west core as well. We ask for everyone’s cooperation so that those who need this elevator can use it first.