ADA bathroom requirements are essential to creating an accessible and safe space for all.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design was created to ensure environments were accessible to all individuals despite their ability. These standards, which were updated in 2010, outline the minimum accessibility requirements for commercial buildings.
Do All Commercial Bathrooms Need to Be ADA-Compliant?
According to the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, “The 2010 Standards set minimum requirements – both scoping and technical — for newly designed and constructed or altered State and local government facilities, public accommodations, and commercial facilities to be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.”
While older facilities may be exempt from complying with ADA standards, they need to be updated to be ADA-compliant if they undergo renovations. All newly constructed facilities must meet the minimum requirements established in the 2010 Standards.
ADA Bathroom Requirements
From layouts to accessories and heights to turn radiuses, there are numerous ways a commercial bathroom needs to be ADA-compliant. Here are a few of the most common and essential ADA bathroom requirements.
Toilets
- Toilet seats must be between 17 and 19 inches high.
- The center of the toilet must be between 16 and 18 inches from adjacent walls.
- Grab bars must be installed horizontally behind the toilet and on the nearest side wall or toilet partition.
Sinks
- Sinks should not be mounted more than 34 inches from the floor.
- Sinks should have a minimum knee clearance of 27 inches.
- Faucets should be operable with minimal force and one hand.
Doors
- Should open with little force and have handles that can be used with one hand.
- Doorways should have a minimum width of 32 inches.
- Doors should not swing into the sink area or into spaces needed for a wheelchair to maneuver.
Stalls
- Stalls require a wheelchair turn radius of at least 60 inches around the sidewall and 56 inches from the rear wall.
- Urinals should be installed at a maximum of 17 inches from the floor.
Bathroom Accessories
- Mirrors, dispensers, grab bars, etc., all have specific heights and installation requirements.
Need Assistance Creating an ADA-Compliant Bathroom?
We can help. At Holman Inc., we have decades of experience supplying and installing Division 10 products, including toilet partitions and bathroom accessories. From design to installation, we can ensure your Division 10 specialties needs are met and ADA-compliant. We even offer free ADA and building code compliance consultations. Contact our team today to schedule your free consultation or find out how we can be of assistance on your next commercial project.