Counter & Service Points
A full range of amplifiers and loops that can be used for counter communications including:
- Ticket counters
- Reception desks
- Information or help-points
- Points of sale
Counter & Service Points
Make 'Reasonable Adjustments'
A full range of amplifiers and loops that can be used for Counter & Service Points communications including:
- Ticket counters
- Reception desks
- Information or help-points
- Points of sale
Counter & Service Points
Assistive listening counters & service points are dedicated areas where individuals can seek assistance and access devices to improve their listening experience, particularly for those with hearing impairments.
These counters or service points are commonly found in venues such as theaters, auditoriums, conference halls, and other public spaces.
Here’s some information to help you understand and set up assistive listening counters or service points:
Purpose: Assistive listening counters or service points are designed to provide accessibility to individuals with hearing disabilities. They offer various assistive listening devices (ALDs) or systems that can enhance sound clarity and volume for those with hearing impairments, ensuring they can fully participate in events, presentations, or performances.
Location: These counters or service points should be easily accessible to individuals with disabilities. Ideally, they should be situated near the main entrance or ticketing area to ensure convenience and visibility.
Staffing: It is important to have trained staff members or volunteers available at these counters or service points who are knowledgeable about the assistive listening devices and systems being offered. They should be able to provide guidance, instructions, and support to users.
Signage and Information: Clearly visible signage should be placed around the venue directing individuals to the assistive listening counters or service points. Information about the availability of these services can also be included on event websites, ticketing platforms, or promotional materials to inform potential users in advance.
Equipment: A variety of assistive listening devices and systems can be made available at these counters or service points. Some common options include:
- Hearing loops: These systems use electromagnetic fields to transmit sound directly to hearing aids or cochlear implants equipped with telecoil technology. Users with compatible devices can simply switch their hearing aids to the “T” or telecoil mode to receive clear audio signals.
- FM systems: These devices consist of a transmitter microphone and a receiver worn by the user. The transmitter captures the audio signal and wirelessly transmits it to the receiver, which can be a separate device or integrated into the user’s hearing aids.
- Infrared (IR) systems: IR systems transmit sound using infrared light signals. The user wears a receiver equipped with infrared sensors, which pick up the transmitted audio signal. These systems are useful in environments where confidentiality is important since the signals are contained within the room.
- Portable amplifiers: These devices include personal sound amplifiers, pocket talkers, or similar devices that amplify sound for individuals who may not have hearing aids or prefer not to use them.
- Captioning devices: For individuals with both hearing and visual impairments, captioning devices can display real-time captions or subtitles to enhance comprehension.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Regular maintenance and testing of the assistive listening devices and systems are crucial to ensure their proper functioning. It’s important to regularly check the equipment, replace batteries, and address any technical issues promptly.
