Ensuring your bathroom is wheelchair accessible is not only essential for comfort and safety, but it’s also required under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Here are the five most important considerations to keep in mind when creating a fully accessible bathroom.
1. Wider Doorways for Easy Access
- Door Width: Your bathroom door must have a minimum clear width of 32 inches when open at a 90-degree angle, with 36 inches preferred for better accessibility.
- Door Hardware: Install lever-style or automatic doors to make it easier to open without struggling with traditional doorknobs.
2. Clearance for Maneuverability
- Turning Space: Provide a 5-foot diameter of clear floor space for wheelchair users to easily turn around and navigate the bathroom.
- Floor Space: Ensure there is 60 inches of clear space in key areas to allow smooth movement.
3. Toilet Accessibility
- Toilet Height: Install the toilet at a height between 17 to 19 inches from the floor to accommodate wheelchair transfers.
- Grab Bars: Place grab bars 33 to 36 inches above the floor next to the toilet for support. Make sure they can withstand a 250-pound force.
4. Accessible Sink Design
- Sink Height: The sink should be positioned between 29 to 34 inches from the floor to make it usable for someone seated in a wheelchair.
- Knee Clearance: Provide at least 27 inches of clearance beneath the sink for easy access.
5. Shower with Roll-in Access
- Threshold: Ensure the shower has a threshold no higher than ½ inch for easy roll-in access.
- Grab Bars: Install grab bars within the shower at a height of 33 to 36 inches for added safety.
- Shower Controls: Place shower controls within 48 inches from the floor, making them easy to reach for someone sitting.
These five steps are essential to creating a wheelchair accessible bathroom that complies with ADA standards. By implementing these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your space is both functional and inclusive for everyone.