Suitable accessible toilets for disabled persons

Q: Why does the accessible washroom size matter?

A: Spacious toilets for disabled persons allows for safe and comfortable transfers, such as from a wheelchair to the WC pan, and provides enough room for the wheelchair turning space around fixtures and transfer areas. This helps reduce accidents and injuries and makes it easier for support and assistance to be provided to the wheelchair user.

If accessible washrooms are smaller than the minimum requirements outlined in Document M and BS8300, individuals with disabilities may experience several inconveniences. Limited space in toilets for disabled persons restricts their ability to manoeuvre comfortably and squeezing through tight spaces becomes challenging, impeding their independence and potentially resulting in accidents or difficulties when using the facilities.

Learn more about accessible washroom dimensions for unisex toilets

Q: Why is a standard height toilet pan not suitable?

A: The height of a standard WC pan in toilets for disabled persons is typically too low for a wheelchair user to transfer onto and off the pan comfortably. The low height of a standard toilet can make the transfer process challenging, potentially leading to discomfort, strain, or even accidents.

The dimensions of a unisex wheelchair-accessible toilet should conform to 750mm extended projection from the back wall to the front, and 480mm from the floor to the toilet seat, whether the toilet is wall hung, floor mounted, or close coupled.

Q: Why should the flush handle be on the same side as the transfer space?

A: Having the flush handle on the same side as the transfer space eliminates the need to reach across the toilet or assume awkward positions to access it after the user has transferred back to the wheelchair. This arrangement effectively reduces the risk of falls, accidents, or discomfort.

Placing the spatula type lever on the same side as the transfer space is beneficial as it minimises the need for individuals to move or transfer in order to reach the flush control. This not only reduces physical effort but also promotes a seamless and efficient use of the toilets for disabled users.

Alternatively, electronic flush plates may be a better option as they are easier to use for both amputees and wheelchair users who have full use of their hands.

Q: Why should grab rails have a good or acceptable light reflectance value?

A: Light Reflectance Values (LRV) indicate the amount of light reflected by a surface. By having grab rails with good or acceptable LRV in toilets for disabled users, there is a higher contrast between the grab rails and the surrounding wall, making them more visible and easier to identify. This contrast helps individuals with visual impairments or low vision to locate and use the grab rails with greater ease and confidence. This is particularly important in emergency situations or when individuals require assistance or balance support within the accessible washroom.

The contrasting colours between the grab rails and the surrounding surfaces serve as visual cues, helping individuals navigate and orient themselves within the space. This promotes independence and reduces the risk of accidents or confusion.

As per BS8300, visual contrast in terms of LRV in toilets for disabled persons can be categorised as good, acceptable, or poor. It is generally recommended to have a difference in LRV of 30 points or more (in the good zone) to ensure sufficient contrast. However, there is evidence suggesting that a difference of approximately 20 points may still be acceptable if the illuminance on the surfaces is 200 lux or higher. Anything less than about 20 points might not provide adequate contrast, even with an illuminance of 200 lux on the surfaces in the toilets for disabled users.

Q: Why should the alarm pull cord have two red bangles?

A: In a scenario where a person has fallen and needs to activate the emergency alarm, the bangle placed at the bottom of the cord can be more accessible. This lower bangle allows the person to reach and grasp it while in a seated or lying position, easing their ability to pull the cord and activate the alarm for assistance.

If a person is seated on the WC pan and requires assistance, the bangle positioned at the seated height would be easier for them to grab. This placement ensures that individuals seated on the toilet or in a wheelchair can conveniently access the alarm pull cord and initiate the alarm if needed.

Q: Why should there be a colostomy bag changing shelf?

A: A colostomy bag changing shelf offers a dedicated and hygienic surface for individuals to change or empty their colostomy bags, use the shelf for general purposes, or have a place to keep their personal or medical items within reach.

Placing the shelf at an appropriate height ensures that individuals can comfortably reach and use it while standing or sitting, depending on their needs. Providing a shelf also eliminates the need for a user to search for alternative surfaces or locations in the washroom to perform the bag change or to store their personal items in a safe place.

Close coupled cisterns in toilets for disabled users can also serve the same purpose as a colostomy bag changing shelf as long as the top surface of the cistern is flat.