People who require the use of wheelchair because they live with disability may need to have their bathroom renovated to accommodate for the use of wheelchairs. However renovating, or creating, a disability bathroom can be a challenge and there are a few things that need to be considered when you’re thinking about accessibility.
Shower and Tub Accessibility
Using a rolling shower seat or fixed shower seat can help some users. The shower seat should be at a height of 43 – 48cm; a small stool or plastic chair can allow the bather to sit while taking a shower and can be removed for users who don’t use the seat for showering.
A curbless shower can be an alternative for people using wheelchairs, walkers or for those who are at high risk of falling; however it be used by everyone regardless of ability. The opening to the shower is level with the floor and is sloped towards the drain; it should be 91cm wide for someone using a transfer seat and 152cm wide for those in a wheelchair so they can turn around in or for assistance.
Walk-in tubs also allow easier access as the user can walk into the tub without having to climb over the side of the tub. It is also best to install the tub controls near the front edge so to avoid a long reach.
Install grab bars for all bathing areas. Two bars should be installed for tubs on the sidewall when standing and at the sitting range while for showers all three walls for roll-in showers should have a grab bar and for transfer shower two walls should have grab bars. When possible coordinate the controls to be near the grab bars.
Non-slip floors are one of the most vital aspects to address in order to prevent users from falling. A textured tile or slatted wood tray over concrete floor can provide a non-slip floor. Installing anti-scalding mixing valves to maintain a safe water temperate and volume to prevent burns; limit the temperature in the tub and shower to 120 degrees.
Items such as hair care, bathing products, soap etc. will need to be placed in an area that is reachable to the user as well as be adequately stored so they don’t fall to the floor. Additionally overhead lights should be utilised in addition to using glass walls instead of shower curtains to allow for additional lights for enhanced safety.
Shower controls should be placed in a location where operators can control them without getting wet; also it is good to install a handheld showerhead that can accommodate a seated bather, one with at least a 152cm hose.
Finally the tower shelf or hook should be installed within easy reach for drying off before users exit the shower
Bathroom Sink and Vanity Accessibility
Sinks should be mounted on the wall with no cabinet underneath for both standing and seated users or one with enough clearance to provide open knee space. Additionally a sink that’s approached from the front needs to have a maximum rim height of 86cm with a 69cm clearance of knees or, alternatively, you can have a sink that can be approached from the side.
It would be ideal to install single-handle faucets, which can be easily turned on and adjusted without having to grab or twist it. Or you could install sensors on the faucets that detects when hands are near it to make it more accessible.
Speaking of accessibility, so that everyone can use it, you can also mount a lower placed mirror, extra long mirror or a mirror that can tilt. You can also use sturdy furniture/vanity that can be grabbed on to manoeuvre around the bathroom if there’s no reachable grab bars.
Similar to bath and shower design, you will need to consider the placement of items such as dental care, prescriptions, eye care/contact lenses etc. along with storage and access for items such as hair dryers, curlers, makeup etc.
You could also install low drawers that pull out fully to increase the accessibility of storage options. Finally, although more expensive, is the option of a vanity with adjustable height counters so that all users regardless of ability can use it.
Bathroom Toilet Accessibility
It is best to make a higher toilet seat to make it easier for users to lower, stand or transfer from a wheelchair/walker to the toilet. Additionally thicker toilet seats can be used to add height to the toilet when replacing the toilet is not an option.
For toilet paper dispensers, install them at a comfortable height that is forward of the bowl while installing a bidet may allow for more privacy and good hygiene for those that have trouble using toilet papers.
Installing at least one grab bar to one side of the toilet at a distance of 46cm to the nearest wall or fixture is recommended; however ideally you want the toilet to be placed between two support bars that are 91cm apart.
Bathroom Lighting
Lighting in bathrooms are extremely important for safety reasons. When planning it, you should avoid any shadows and create an even lighting; try using natural lighting as much as possible.
Light switches should be lowered so that wheelchair users can access them. Extra lights should be distributed evenly throughout the entire bathroom to avoid glares, additionally dimmers can provide brightness and softness depending on the needs of the user.
Motion detector lights can also be utilised for individuals who have trouble accessing light switches or you could install switches with a large toggle or push button that doesn’t require the pinching motion to turn on or off.
However when designing disability bathrooms there are lots more to consider. If you require assistance on what you need for a bathroom to be fully accessible then call us on 02 9649 2111 or email to [email protected]. Our team of experienced Archability specialists are more than happy to discuss your needs and help you create the perfect disability bathroom.
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