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Whether you have a small company or a massive corporation, the Americans with Disabilities Act (signed into law in 1990) dictates certain aspects of your building. One affected area is the restroom, which must feature certain accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Read on to learn about the three ADA bathroom regulations your business needs to know.
Accessible Stall Specifications
Accessible bathroom stalls are specifically designed to cater to individuals with disabilities who require more space and support. Multiuser facilities must include one accessible stall; buildings with clusters of single-user restrooms must ensure that half are ADA compliant. The exact specifications for one of these additions (with a wall-mounted toilet) are as follows: 60 inches wide and 56 inches deep. Stalls with floor-mounted toilets must measure 59 inches deep. This additional space provides proper turning space for wheelchairs and other supportive equipment. Along with these specific measurements, ADA-compliant restroom stalls must include horizontal grab bars.
Sinks and Countertops
ADA-compliant restrooms must feature specific sink and countertop heights to accommodate all patrons. Sink basins and countertop surfaces cannot exceed 34 inches in height. Additionally, these handwashing areas should provide adequate space below for proper knee clearance. Lastly, all exposed plumbing components must have insulation or another suitable protection item that doesn’t impede the movement of individuals with disabilities.
Faucet Mechanics
Your business’s commercial restroom has freedom of choice when picking out faucets and other sink hardware. However, according to the ADA, these faucets must be easily accessible. For instance, a faucet that isn’t workable with one hand is notsuitable for your ADA-compliant bathroom. The mechanism used to operate the sink cannot require a “twisting wrist” movement. An affordable and simple way to fulfill these regulations is by installing automated sensor-activated faucets instead.
Ultimately, the ADA bathroom regulations your business needs to know are quite standard and simple to follow. However, there are additional measures you can take to make your commercial restrooms more accessible for everyone. Consider adding grip mats and more automated equipment to improve the cleanliness and experience for your patrons. Remember that the condition of your facilities reflects either positively or negatively on your company!
