TFL Consulting Services
We collaborate with architects, developers, and building managers to champion universal design, ensuring building access points go beyond basic compliance to create truly inclusive spaces.
Typical TFL Consulting Services
- Accessible Elevator Controls
- Accessible Doors
“We recently had an automatic door opener system installed in our home and this has been a life changer for us! Steven is wheel chair bound with minimal mobility and is not able to open the door, whether it is to let guests in, or if I have arms full of groceries, or in case of an emergency. He now has the freedom to know that if needed, from his chair or anywhere in our home that with a click of the remote, he is able to unlock and open the door giving him such peace of mind!”
Stephen P.
Why Choose TFL for your Project?
TFL has over 20 years of experience consulting on building access, supported by a robust Peer team with lived experience. Our work focuses exclusively on accessibility and environmental control systems. We have provided access control consultation for a wide range of buildings, including elevators, building entrances, and suite doors, from individual homes and apartments to major projects such as:
- Canuck Place Children’s Hospice
- VCH’s Cambie Gardens, and
- Lions Millenium Place
We understand that accessible design can be costly. Above all, our goal is to help remove barriers to independent living.
If you’re just starting to explore your options, we’ve compiled a list of elevator and automatic door opener companies we’ve worked with, along with some potential solutions to consider.
If you have questions as you begin exploring universal building access, or would like TFL to consult on your project, please click here.
Practical Solutions Overview
When consulting on these options, our team brings valuable technical expertise, real-world use cases, and lived experience to help you find the right fit.
Automatic Door Opener Control
Automatic Door Openers are typically operated using a button FOB, which works from both sides of the door. Once activated, the ADO automatically unlocks the door, opens it, pauses for a set amount of time, and then closes and locks it securely behind you.
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Customized Access & Controls:
Many TFL members find it difficult to press the standard button on the FOB—and that’s where our Technology for Independent Living (TIL) team comes in. Our technicians can set up alternative controls, such as accessibility switches, voice commands, or a smartphone app.
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TFL’s ADO Program:
While ADOs can be a significant investment, members of the Technology for Living (TFL) program may be eligible to have some, or all, of the costs covered. To see if you are eligible or to apply for an ADO through TFL, click here to submit an application.
Accessible Elevator Control (retrofit)
If you are looking to retrofit your elevator and your manufacturer does not offer a suitable option, here are some alternatives:
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Home Elevators:
If you are a TIL member struggling to operate your home elevator controls, our technicians can help find a customized solution. While every elevator is different, we can often enable access through accessibility switches, smartphone apps, or voice controls.
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Building Elevators:
Although retrofit options for commercial or multi-unit residential elevators are limited, we frequently work with systems from Abilia. By integrating their infrared transmitters, receivers, and relays, your elevator can be controlled via a switch-activated remote.
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Additional Building Solutions:
Other potential options include RFID technology, accessibility bollards, oversized buttons, and underfloor switches.
Resource & Vendors
Automatic Door Opener Companies
Automatic Door Opener Companies
Although there are many ADO companies throughout BC, here are some ADO companies TFL has worked with and where we’ve utilized their services.
A-Tech Doors Inc (Vancouver Island)
Dependable Automatic Door Ltd (Okanagan Valley)
Elevator Companies Accessibility Options
Elevator Companies Accessibility Options
Many elevator manufacturers offer built-in accessibility features or dedicated systems for specific elevator lines. Below are key examples of accessibility solutions offered by major elevator companies:
KONE Elevator Call – A smartphone app that allows users to call an elevator and select their destination floor remotely.
Mitsubishi Smart – A browser-based smartphone app integrated with building access control, featuring a dedicated wheelchair-accessible elevator call mode.
Otis eCall – Designed for Otis Compass elevators, this smartphone app includes an accessibility mode that extends door dwell times for safer entry and exit.
Schindler myPORT – An all-in-one building access and elevator dispatch app featuring built-in VoiceOver and gesture-based control options.
TKE Elevator AGILE Mobile – Uses lobby-based Bluetooth beacons to detect users automatically and route them to their floor—compatible even with existing two-button elevator setups.
