What is Clock Position? Usage Examples and Introduction!

Are you familiar with the term "clock position"?

Communicating with individuals with sensory impairments in the same way as with those without can be challenging. However, the concept of clock position is used as a method to convey information more clearly.

This time, we will introduce "clock position," which is helpful when interacting with visually impaired individuals. If you are not yet familiar with clock position, please read on to the end.

1. What is Clock Position?

Clock position is a method of explaining where something is by using the hands of a clock as a reference.

By describing the back as 12 o'clock, the right as 3 o'clock, the front as 6 o'clock, and the left as 9 o'clock, it becomes easy to visualize and understand for visually impaired individuals.

In everyday life, expressions like "come over here," "let's go there," or "I'll leave it here" are often used.

These expressions rely on the assumption that the other person can perceive their surroundings or that gestures are involved.

Therefore, it can be very challenging for someone who is blind to visualize these directions.

In such situations, the "clock position" is considered an easy-to-understand method.

Common scenarios where clock position is used include indicating the location of dishes on a table or the direction to walk.

For example, saying "there's rice at 2 o'clock" or "let's proceed in the direction of 4 o'clock" helps create a concrete image of the direction.

Even without using clock position, being able to adapt to the situation by saying things like "take 10 steps forward and then turn right" or "there's a salad 10 centimeters to the left" can be very helpful.

Source: Japan Association for the Rehabilitation of the Visually Impaired

2. How to Use Clock Position and Timing for Verbal Cues

As introduced so far, clock position is an effective method for conveying location and position.

When using clock position, it is important to describe the surrounding environment in detail and specifically.

Specifically, please use the following verbal cues for different scenarios:

・When passing through a narrow area: "The path is getting narrow."
・When walking without changing direction: "We'll walk straight for a while."
・When there is a traffic light: "There's a traffic light, so we'll stop."
・When making a turn: "After three more steps, we'll turn right."

By explaining the specific situation like this, you can kindly convey to the other person what the surrounding environment is like.

Also, walking speed varies from person to person. By appropriately matching the speed to the other person, visually impaired individuals can feel secure.

If you see someone standing still and looking around or holding their white cane up, it's a sign of SOS.

If you see someone with a visual impairment who seems to be in trouble, it's good to start with these words.

"Is there anything I can help you with?"
"Shall I lend you my arm?"
"Where would be a good place to stand and walk together?"

While saying these words, stand half a step ahead of them on the side where they are not holding the white cane.

Then, bring their hand close to your shoulder, elbow, or wrist so they can hold on.

It's important to guide them while talking together and confirming which direction to lead them without rushing.

3. Examples of Clock Position

3-1. Dining

One common scenario where clock position is used is when explaining the location of dishes on a table.

Take a look at the image below.

In this case, explain as follows:

・There are pickles at 12 o'clock
・There is natto at 2 o'clock
・There is miso soup at 5 o'clock
・There is rice at 7 o'clock
・There is hijiki at 10 o'clock
・There is salmon in the center

This way, they can understand the position of each food item and enjoy their meal while choosing the order in which to eat.

Additionally, if the container is hot, mentioning it along with the clock position can help prevent burns.

3-2. Walking

When using clock position to convey directions while walking, ensure that 12 o'clock is always the front and 6 o'clock is directly behind, centered on the person with the disability.

While the person with the disability is walking, the guide should face the same direction and have them hold onto the guide's elbow or shoulder with the hand not holding the white cane, using clock position to convey the situation.

For example, convey details like passing a bicycle at 2 o'clock.

When walking through a crowd, the guide and the person with the disability should walk in a single file.

When using stairs, it's important to not only mention that there are stairs but also specify whether they are going up or down.

4. Guidance Methods Using Clock Position