Breaking Barriers: PCL Graphics & CNIB Access Labs
Introduction
At CNIB Access Labs, our mission revolves around breaking barriers and championing inclusive environments. As we celebrate Vision Health Month in May, it’s a perfect opportunity to spotlight one of our esteemed partners, PCL Graphics, renowned for providing quality inclusive signage solutions.
We chose to interview PCL Graphics because of their commitment to accessibility and their innovative practices using sustainable materials and the latest innovations. PCL Graphics is renowned for providing quality inclusive signage solutions that benefit people of all abilities.
The Importance of Accessible Signage
Accessible signage plays a crucial role in creating inclusive environments for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
By providing clear and easily understandable information, accessible signage helps people navigate spaces independently and safely. This kind of signage includes features such as braille, high-contrast text, and clear symbols, all of which ensure that people with sight loss can access the same information as their sighted peers.
Empowering Inclusion Through Innovation
David Demers, Managing Director at CNIB Access Labs, sits down with Armond Shahinian, Partner at PCL Graphics, to discuss their mission, values, and their accessibility journey.
Read on as we delve into their insightful conversation.
David Demers (Managing Director, CNIB Access Labs): Armond, could you please share with our readers a bit about PCL Graphics and its mission?
Armond Shahinian (Partner, PCL Graphics): Absolutely. PCL Graphics is a family company with a legacy spanning 40 years. Our mission has always been clear: to provide quality inclusive signage solutions. One of our pivotal moments occurred around 2018-2019 when we collaborated with Debbie Gillespie of CNIB to develop a braille standard for printing, ensuring the perfect dot shape. Our process involves intricate layers, leading to faster production, enhanced accuracy, and durability for both indoor and outdoor settings. Prior to this breakthrough, we encountered challenges with polymer-based printing methods, but through innovation and collaboration, we’ve advanced our techniques significantly.
Forging Partnerships for Progress
David Demers: Reflecting on our collaboration, Armond, what were some key moments or factors that led to the partnership between Access Labs and PCL Graphics?
Armond: Our collaboration with CNIB Access Labs has been driven by a shared commitment to accessibility and innovation. Projects like the Art Gallery in Regina, Ottawa airport signage, and SmartLife signage for Toronto and Montreal stands out as impactful milestones in our journey together.
[Image description: Vivid yellow signage displaying the CNIB and CNIB SmartLife logos outside the CNIB Québec Office in Montreal.]
Embedding Accessibility in Every Detail
David Demers: In what ways has PCL Graphics incorporated accessibility considerations into its products and services?
Armond: Education has been paramount, both internally and externally. We strive to ensure that accessibility isn’t merely a checkbox but a fundamental aspect of our offerings. From extensive quality assurance measures to utilizing sustainable materials like sugarcane and corn-based products, we prioritize accessibility at every stage, from design to installation. Our close relationships with manufacturers enable us to stay ahead of the curve and deliver cutting-edge solutions to our clients.
Celebrating Shared Successes
[Image description: Accessible sign by PCL Graphics at The Nanji Family Foundation CNIB SmartLife Centre in Toronto, featuring a portrait of Gulshan and Pyarali Nanji with accompanying text describing their journey in Canada and their philantrophic legacy.]
David Demers: Looking at our collective achievements, what successes do you feel proud of from our collaboration?
Armond: The projects we’ve undertaken together exemplify our shared commitment to creating inclusive spaces. Whether it’s enhancing navigation for blind or partially sighted Canadians, or promoting accessibility awareness, each project has left a lasting impact on the communities we serve.
Monica Enica (Accessibility Consultant): How does PCL Graphics ensure that accessibility remains a priority throughout its processes and workflows?
Armond: Our dedication to accessibility permeates every aspect of our operations. We stay abreast of industry developments, constantly innovating and pushing boundaries. Additionally, we take every opportunity to educate architects and designers in braille standards, particularly regarding braille integrity and impact testing.
Charting the Future of Accessibility
David Demers: How do you envision the future of accessibility within the printing and graphics industry, and what role does PCL Graphics aim to play in this evolution?
Armond: Innovation is at the heart of our vision for the future. By embracing new materials, technologies, and partnerships, we strive to pioneer advancements in accessibility. Our commitment to sustainability and quality will continue to drive our efforts as we seek to redefine the standards of inclusive design.
Inspiring Others to Lead with Accessibility
Monica: Finally, Armond, what advice would you give to other companies looking to enhance their accessibility efforts?
Armond: Do your homework and don’t just produce it for the sake of producing it. Learn as much as you can and remember the purpose behind your endeavors. There’s a need for them, and there are people that require these signs.
David Demers: That’s so true. You wouldn’t accept spelling mistakes on signs, right?
Armond Shahinian: Exactly. There are safety concerns, comfortability, accessibility—all concerns revolve around the person that requires these signs to have accessibility to the built environment.
Closing Thoughts
As we commemorate Vision Health Month, it’s a time to reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where everyone has equal access and opportunities, regardless of ability.
If you’re seeking accessible wayfinding and signage solutions, we invite you to connect with us. Collectively, we’re forging a future where accessibility and inclusivity are the norm.
About CNIB Access Labs
CNIB Access Labs is a social enterprise supporting businesses, organizations, and institutions to ensure all Canadians with disabilities can benefit from barrier-free communities and workplaces. One hundred percent of our proceeds are reinvested into CNIB to create innovative programs and powerful advocacy that empower people impacted by blindness to live their dreams and tear down barriers to inclusion.
About PCL Graphics
PCL Graphics is a leading provider of quality inclusive signage solutions, committed to embedding accessibility into every aspect of its products and services. Backed by decades of experience, state of the art machinery and top of the line graphic professionals, PCL Graphics continues to push boundaries in the printing and graphics industry, creating inclusive spaces for all.
Vision Health Month
May is Vision Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of vision health and promote access to eye care services. Vision Health Month aims to educate individuals about vision care and encourage proactive steps towards maintaining healthy vision.