The Good Loo Design Guide

I Inclusive Environments
Good Loo
Design Guide
? O M Edition
i 1-
100
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About this guide
The Good Loo Design Guide is part of a Jointly published by the Centre for
new generation of design guides jointly Accessible Environments and RlBA
published by CAE and RlBA Enterprises. Enterprises:
The series articulates our joint
commitment t o environments designed Centre for Accessible Environments
t o include the requirements of all users. Nutmeg House, 60 Gainsford Street
Design guidance in the series is based on London SE1 2NY
acknowledged good practice deriving TeVtextphone: +44 (0)20 7357 8182
from user experience, good design and, Fax: +44 (0)20 7357 8183
where possible, empirical research. The Emai I: info@cae.org.uk
Good Loo Design Guide is indebted t o We bsite: www.cae .org.u k
British Standard BS 8300:2001 Design of The Centre for Accessible Environments
buildings and their approaches to meet is a Company Limited by Guarantee
the needs of disabled people - Code of registered in England and Wales
practice, and the new information it No 31 12684, Registered Charity
supplies on how disabled people No 1050820.
interact with the built environment, as
well as t o Approved Document M of the RlBA Enterprises
Building Regulations. 15 Bonhill Street, London EC2P 2EA
Tel: +44 (0)20 7256 7222
The CAE/RIBA Enterprises series of Fax: +44 (0)20 7374 2737
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seeking t o fulfil their duties under the RlBA Enterprises is a Company Limited
Disability Discrimination Act 1995. It will by Guarantee registered in England and
also help those responsible for the Wales No 978271.
development of the built environment
and those who use it, which can include
architects, designers, facilities managers Acknowledgements
and a range of consumers including
disabled people. The support of the following individuals
and organisations during the
Written and produced for CAE by preparation of this guide is much
Andrew Lacey appreciated, particularly Nicholls &
Drawings by Vin Goodwin Clarke for their generous contribution:
Main photography by Nicholls & Clarke
Richard Chisnell British Toilet
First published: March 2004 Association
Wendy Davis Women’s Design Service
0 Centre for Accessible Environments Bob Feeney Robert Feeney
and RlBA Enterprises, 2004 Associates
Judith lrving LSA Design Consultancy
Designed by Steve Paveley Design Jessie Roberts PAMIS
Typeset in 12 point Frutiger by David Petherick ODPM
Column Communicat ions Andrew Smith UK Paruresis
Association
ISBN 1 85946 144 1 David Spooner Nicholls & Clarke
Diana Twitchin Is There An Accessible
Product code: 35236
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Loo? (ITAAL)
Provided by S&P Global Licensee=Institute of Technology Sligo/5974795001, User=User, Institute Of Techn
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Introduction 2 Unisex accessible peninsular
WC layout for assisted use 28
Legis1ation 3 Separate-sex provision 30
B uiId ing Regulations 3 Urinals 31
British Standard BS 8300 4 Case study: Wetherspoon,
Disability Discrimination Act 1995 5 Macclesfie Id 33
Adult changing facilities 34
User needs: an inclusive 6 Case study: thecentre:mk 35
approach Combined WUs hower f aci I ities 36
Privacy, comfort and safety 6 Facilities for children 37
People with disabilities 6 Facilities for babies 37
Who uses accessible WCs? 7
How do wheelchair users Design detail 38
transfer to and from the WC? 8 Doors, door handles and locks 38
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Independent lateral transfer 10 wcs 39
Assisted angled transfer 13 Paper dispensers 40
Use with assistance dog 15 Hygienic disposal units 40
Shelves 40
Level of provision: how Grabrails 40
many and where? 16 Wash basins 41
Male:female ratios 16 Hand drying 42
WC compartments for Dispensers and vending machines 42
ambulant disabled people 16 Emergency assistance alarms 42
Wheelchair-accessible compartments 16 Fire alarms 43
Mirrors 43
Design principles 18 Other accessories 43
Finding and getting to the WC 18 Vent iI a t io n 43
Lobbies 18 Lighting 43
Small buildings 19 Heating 44
Public conveniences 19 Finishes 44
support 20
Fittings 20 Management issues 45
Colour contrast and lighting 20 Access audits 45
Safety 21 Access plans and access strategies 45
Space 21 Management checklist 45
Layouts 22 PubIications 47
Sta ndard-size WC compartments 22 Legis1a t ion 47
WC layout for ambulant Further practical advice 47
disabled people 23
Unisex accessible corner WC layout 24 Organisations 49
Universal WC compartment 27
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In the 1988 Good Loo Design Guide - There are still many examples of where
the ground-breaking first version of this - even though provision is clearly well
publication - CAE’s Chief Executive intentioned - mistakes in the design
Sarah Langton-Locktonwrote ‘The detail or the fitting out compromise
archive of errors is voluminous -the the usability of WCs that are intended
flush handle and hand dryer way out of to be accessible.
reach to a person in a wheelchair, the
battery of grabrails which effectively This guide takes an inclusive approach
barricades the WC from use. Why is it, to the provision of WCs that suit as wide
despite the quantities of technical a range of users as possible, and gives
guidance available, that so much WC guidance on various WC layouts,
provision for disabled people is poorly including the unisex accessible corner
designed or even unusable? The answer, WC. It also gives advice on planning,
we believe, is the lack of forthright, distribution and management issues and
unembarrassed and factual information on resolving potential conflicts between
on how disabled people actually use a the needs of disabled people and other
unisex or other loo. Without this, user groups, such as parents with babies
designers are interpreting technical and young children.
guidance with imperfect or no
knowledge as to what it is for. The In situations where it may not be
Good Loo Design Guide is intended to possible to follow all best practice
illuminate their task.’ guidelines (for example, in very small
buildings), this guide will assist in
The Good Loo Design Guide became a thinking through the issues and coming
CAE bestseller. A decade and a half up with creative solutions which will go
later, there is no doubt that there have a long way towards meeting the needs
been improvements in access to the of many disabled people.
built environment, including the
provision of accessible WC Without adequate WCs, disabled people
accommodation - and yet there is still a are limited in their ability t o go out into
long way to go. It is just as important the world: t o work, to shop and to
today that architects, designers, builders enjoy their leisure. Equipped with the
and others responsible for fitting out Good Loo Design Guide, architects,
and managing buildings and facilities developers, building control officers and
understand what lies behind design other building professionals will be
guidance. This is true perhaps more in helped to design the enabling
relation to WCs than to other aspects of environments that disabled people seek.
building design, because the precise
layout and the way compartments are
fitted out are so critical in determining
how useful they are to disabled people.
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Legislation
Building Regulations The regulation avoids specific reference
to, and a definition of, disabled people.
In England and Wales, building design This inclusive approach means that
and construction is governed by the buildings and their facilities should be
Building Regulations. Part M of the accessible and usable by all people who
regulations sets minimum legal use buildings - including parents with
standards for access and use of buildings children, older people and people with
by all building users, including disabled d isa biIities.
people. The most recent - and most
radical - revision comes into effect on 1 The 2004 revision brings Part M into line
May 2004. Whereas previously, Part M with other Parts of the Building Regul-
was concerned with 'access for disabled ations by extending i t s scope to include
people', now the requirement (for alterations to existing buildings and
non-domestic buildings) is simply that: certain changes of use as well as new
buildings and extensions t o buildings.
Access and use
'Reasonable provision shall be made for Approved Document M
people to gain access to and use the Building Regulations are supported by
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building and its facilities' 'Approved Documents' which give

This does not apply to any part of a practical guidance with respect to the
building that is used solely to enable regulations. While their use is not
the building or any service or fitting mandatory - and the requirements of
within the building to be inspected, regulations can be met in other ways -
repaired or maintained. Approved Documents are used as a
benchmark by the local authority.
Access to extensions to buildings
'Suitable independent access shall be The new Approved Document M
provided to the extension where (AD M), published in November 2003,
reasonably practicable' offers technical guidance on providing
This does not apply where suitable access to and within buildings. It is
access to the extension is provided based largely on the relevant British
through the building that is extended. Standard BS 8300:2001 (see p 4). Section
5 covers Sanitary accommodation in
Sanitary conveniences in extensions buildings other than dwellings. See AD
to buildings M for details of the circumstances in
'If sanitary conveniences are provided in which Part M applies, what provision is
any building that is to be extended, required, and the role of Access
reasonable provision shall be made Statements to assist building control
within the extension for sanitary officers in making judgements about
conveniences' whether proposals make reasonable
This does not apply where there is provision for access.
reasonable provision for sanitary
conveniences elsewhere in the building Scotland and Northern Ireland
that can be accessed by building users. Access regulations in Scotland are
integrated into general Technical
Standards. In Northern Ireland, Part R
of the Building Regulations applies.
m
Legis1a t ion
British Standard BS 8300 Transport and the Regions. BS 8300

includes commentary which provides a
BS 8300:2001 Design of buildings and context and rationale for the design
their approaches to meet the needs of guidance. Reference is also made t o
disabled people - Code of practice management and maintenance issues in
explains how the built environment can recognition that good management
be designed to anticipate and overcome plays an essential part in ensuring the
restrictions that prevent disabled people accessibility of services and facilities to
from making full use of premises and disabled people.
their surroundings.
Guidance in the standard covers a wide
The design recommendations in BS 8300 range of impairments and the use of the
are, where relevant, based for the first built environment by disabled people
time on ergonomic research, user trials who may be residents, visitors,
and validated desk studies which spectators, customers, employees or
formed part of a research project participants in sports events,
commissioned in 1997 and 2001 by the performances and conferences.
Department of the Environment, Section 12.4 covers Lavatories.
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Legislation
Disability Discrimination Each Part of the DDA is supported by

one or more codes of practice which
Act 1995 give guidance on how to comply with
the duties under the Act. Two new
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 codes of practice will be issued in 2004
(DDA) introduced new measures aimed in relation to employment duties. The
a t ending the discrimination which Code of Practice for Rights of Access:
many disabled people face. In addition Goods, Facilities, Services and Premises
t o granting new rights to disabled gives guidance to service providers on
people, the Act also places duties on, how to fulfil their duties, including new
among others, employers (Part 2), duties coming into force in 2004 relating
providers of goods, facilities and services t o physical features of buildings.
(Part 3) and education providers (Part 4).
Building designers, while not legally
The main thrust of the legislation is to required to respond to the DDA, should
improve access for disabled people t o anticipate the requirements of the Act
employment, education and services. by presuming that employees and
While the DDA does not directly require customers will fit the definition of
accessible environments to be provided 'disabled person' under the Act, and
for disabled people, either in their place design buildings accordingly. Those
of work, or for access to goods, commissioning new buildings or
facilities, or services (for example in adaptations to existing buildings should
shops, restaurants or offices to which consider the implications of the DDA in
the public have access), duties under the terms of their ability to employ and
Act include the requirement to consider offer services t o disabled people on an
barriers created by physical features of equal basis.
buildings and t o make adjustments in
certain circumstances. The DDA applies to the whole of the
UK, including (with modifications)
The Act defines a disabled person as Northern Ireland.
'someone who has a physical or mental
impairment which has a substantial and See also p 45 Access audits and Access
long-term adverse effect on his or her plans and access strategies under
ability t o carry out normal day-to-day Management issues.
activities'. Discrimination occurs where
without justification, and for a reason
which relates to the disabled person's
disability, a disabled person is treated
less favourably than others to whom the
reason does not or would not apply.
Discrimination may also occur when

there is a duty to make a reasonable
adjustment and any failure to meet that
duty cannot be justified.
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It is useful to undertake an assessment People with disabilities
of customer, employee and visitor needs
for all kinds of buildings, including It is estimated' that about 20 per cent of
employment buildings, premises t o the adult population in the UK - around
which customers and/or the general 11.7 million people - are covered by the
public have access, and public lavatories. provisions of the Disability
The assessment should take an inclusive Discrimination Act. Of these:
approach, covering all aspects of WC
provision from standard WCs to 7 million people have difficulty lifting
accessible WCs and other associated and carrying
facilities such as nappy-changing areas. 6 million people have mobility
impairments
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Consideration should be given to the 5.6 million people have difficulty with
kinds of people that use the facilities physical coordination
(for example, families with young 3.9 million people have difficulty
children or babies), numbers of users learning and understanding
and particular times of the day that 2.5 million people have visual or
are busy. hearing impairments
2.3 million people have difficulties with
manual dexterity
Privacy, comfort and 1.6 million people have continence
problems
safety 0.7 million people have difficulties in
perceiving risk
All users of WCs have a shared
need for privacy, comfort and safety. Other estimates are that:
Consideration should be given to:
approximately 5 million people over the
sanitary disposal units inside all age of 65 have a long-standing illness
ladies' cubicles there are around 5,000 working
hot and cold running water t o assistance dogs'
washbasins in all facilities provided, around half a million people use a
with adequate provision for soap wheelchair all or part of the time2
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adequate provision for hand drying there are around 40,000 people (in
lockable toilet tissue dispensers, England and Wales) with profound and
g preferably with spare rolls/tissue muItiple learning d isa bi Iities3
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Q adequate heating and lighting up to 4 million people, mainly men, may
a effective cleaning regime and be affected by 'shy bladder syndrome'
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v) management, t o ensure proper (avoidant par~resis).~ See guidance on
-
3
standards of cleanliness a t all times Urinak, p 31 and case study on p 33
-r (see Management checklist, p 45)
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a ' The Disability Discrimination Act: Analysis of Data from an Omnibus Survey; In-house report 30, Grahame Whitfield, DSS, 1997
c ' Is There An Accessible Loo?, ITAAL, 2001
L MENCAP
% UK Paruresis Association (UKPA)

User needs: an inclusive approach
Who uses accessible WCs? anyone travelling alone with luggage

who does not want t o leave it
A wide range of people find it either unguarded while they use the WC
impossible or extremely difficult to use
standard WC accommodation, for a People with disabilities who need to use
variety of reasons. Broad groups of users accessible WCs may include:
of accessible WCs include:
people with arthritis, which affects the
0 independent disabled people - joints, who may find it difficult to bend
including people using sticks, crutches, or grip
frames or a wheelchair - who use the
WC without assistance 0 hemiplegics (with paralysis down one
adults with a physical disability or side) who have difficulty balancing
medical condition, assisted by carers
0 adults with mental health problems 0 paraplegics who may have total or
or learning difficulties, assisted by carers partial paralysis of the lower limbs and
0 disabled parents with babies and will therefore be unable to stand up
small children without su pport a nd/or assista nce
0 disabled toddlers and children, assisted
by parentdcarers 0 tetraplegics who have either total or
0 young or older people assisted by carers varying degrees of paralysis of both
0 visually impaired people alone or upper and lower limbs, and who may
assisted by carers have very weak arms. They are normally
anyone using an assistance dog unable to stand a t all and may need
older people who may need extra assistance with transfer
space or who find accessible WCs safer
and easier t o use because of layout people with ataxia whose involuntary
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0
and grabrails movements make them particularly

0 older people who need assistance from vulnerable to sharp, protruding features
personal carers
0 people who benefit from extra space 0 ambulant (walking) disabled people
and equipment because of incontinence who may need extra support
and colostomy/ileostomy, who may need
to catheterise themselves (for example, 0 visually impaired people who
people who have undergone cancer appreciate good colour contrast and
treatment) and/or empty colostomy/ lighting and, if accompanied by an
ileostomy bags and urine bottles assistance dog, need larger than
0 people of short stature (dwarfism) who standard compartments -c
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find they can become trapped in m
standard WCs because of the height of 0 hearing impaired people accompanied ?
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door handles or cubicle locks by an assistance dog a
0 parents and carers of babies and small a,
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children who need extra space or who VI
need t o keep children with them while Note: there are 3.3 million families with -3
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they use the WC children under the age of five. .-S

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parents, grandparents and carers m
accompanying small children of the ;/i
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How do wheelchair This kind of transfer is only possible for

users able to stand briefly and take
users transfer to and some weight on their legs.
from the WC?
Frontal transfer
The technique used to transfer from a the wheelchair is positioned facing the
wheelchair to the WC and back varies WC head on (note: sufficient space is
according to factors such as: the size needed to allow this)
and design of the wheelchair; the level
of function that the disabled person has the user stands and uses support rails on
(for example, strength in upper limbs); both sides of the WC to shuffle around
whether the transfer is independent or through 180°, and lowers him/herself
assisted; and personal preference. Here, onto the WC or
and in Figure 1, p 9, we describe a
number of common transfer techniques: double lower-limb amputees and some
other wheelchair users may choose to
Unassisted side (lateral) transfer use the WC facing the cistern by sliding
the wheelchair is manoeuvred until it is forward from their wheelchair onto the
more or less parallel with the WC, with WC seat, using the rails on either side of
the front of the wheelchair aligned with the WC
the front of the pan. Alternatively, the
transfer maybe angled, with the Rear transfer
wheelchair a t about 45"to the WC (see through zipped seat back of wheelchair
bottom left plan, Figure 1 )
Assisted transfer
the wheelchair armrest nearest the WC This may be done with the wheelchair
is removed in any of the transfer positions
mentioned above. Assistance is needed
the footrests are pushed out of the way when the wheelchair user has little or
no functional use of the lower limbs
the user slides him/herself from the and impaired upper limbs. He/she will
wheelchair to the WC (and back) using a need t o be manually lifted or heaved
rail, wheelchair and WC pan for support from the wheelchair seat to the WC seat
and back. Clear, unobstructed space on
Unassisted angled (oblique) transfer both sides of the WC is important to
the wheelchair is positioned facing the allow the assistant (or assistants) to
WC a t an angle bend, turn and move freely when lifting
r a disabled person's weight.
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g and, using the vertical grabrail for
support, swivels the feet to turn, and
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lowers him/herself down onto the
-3i WC pan using the horizontal wall rail
3
and seat for support. The grabrails may
.-C be used as a support while rocking
6 from side to side on the WC seat to
;/i adjust clothing
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Figure 1
Transfer techniques
* do not reduce effective space with pipes,

ducts, heaters, bins etc
1000 doorset
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drop-down rail allows approach from transfer
side and support when getting off WC
----
all equipment within reach of seated

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Frontal transfer Oblique transfer
using grabrails to using grabrails

pivot from andlor grasping wc
wheelchair onto WC pan itself
Lateral transfer right-handed Lateral transfer

(angled)
grabrails andlor WC
pan grasped to
transfer
one wheel backed

D grabrails or WC pan
grasped to transfer
both wheels backed

up to rear wall with
chair parallel to WC
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up to rear wall with Pan -
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wheelchair set at an .-t
angle to the WC pan c
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left-handed v)
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Due to our national reticence few

of us feel able to ask how disabled
people actually manage in the loo.
The following sequences of
photographs will help rectify this
gap in designers’ knowledge by
conveying visually why certain
components of an accessible WC
have to be in certain positions. In
addition, the correct location of
rails can assist users when
removing and replacing clothing.
Anthony Kralik
Chair, Enfield Disability Action
Anthony has Friedrichs ataxia, a

neurological condition which affects
movement, balance and coordination.
He uses a self-propelled wheelchair and
is able to use the loo independently.
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balance while reaching for loo
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a, paper, soap dispenser and paper
a,
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Using grabrsils for support these

need to be secum& fixed to take
*I/ body w@ight
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easy lleiach so t t hands
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wad& while still sitting on the loo ..
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P a n M n g back to the
wheelchair, with support from hand drying
&ed grabrail and WC pan
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rn
isted angled transfer
Anne Davies OBE

Former Chairman of CAE and consultant
on access and disability issues
Anne has multiple sclerosis, which has

left her with very little strength in her
legs and arms. She requires assistance to
transfer to and from the WC.
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head on tb thg loo and the

assistant
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0Assistant folds the wheelchair U -
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footplate back and positions c
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AnneL feet on the floor ..
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Anne lowers the drop-down rail

(for later use)
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[stance dog
Janet Adams
Member, Enfield Vision
Janet is blind and is

accompanied by her guide
dog Kas.
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'In a standard
compartment, the door
opens in and there is very
little space for the dog.
On the other hand, a big
open space can be a bit
daunting - I need to be
able t o find things and a
touch things easily. Here,
all the different elements
follow in a logical -
\
sequence - the only
difficulty would be things
like identifying buttons on
the sanitary towel
dispenser. The smooth,
rounded surface of the I1
dispenser is good because
it is safer.'
lanet and her dog a d a rosriCjr, standadkd

/ayout of fi'ums and fittings
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Levels of provision: how many
lale:female ratios Wheelchair-accessible

Women may use the WC more compartments
frequently than men (particularly during
menstruation or during and after The time taken to reach a WC - as well
pregnancy) and on average take longer as actual distance - is an essential
in a cubicle than do men a t a urinal. consideration when planning the
AD M suggests that there should be a t location of facilities. As far as possible,
least the same number of WCs for disabled people should be able to find
women as there are urinals for men, and use suitable WC accommodation as
and that in some building types (for easily as non-disabled people.
example, large retail buildings, theatres,
concert halls and other music venues) At least one accessible unisex WC should
there should be a t least twice as many. be provided a t each location in non-
The British Toilet Association domestic buildings where WC
recommends the following ratio of accommodation is provided for the use
provision: of customers, visitors and employees.
"ummr ot male cubicles plus number In hotels and motels, unisex WC

of male urinals x 2 = required number accommodation should be provided
of female cubicles near to bedrooms designed for
wheelchair users if the general sanitary
arrangement for standard bedrooms is
not en suite.
WC compartments for
ambulant disabled people In conference centres, unisex WC
accommodation should be provided
e.
! near main rooms.
a,
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3 disabled people (that is, people who do In existing buildings where space
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not use a wheelchair) should be constraints make it impossible to provide
m provided within each range of WC a unisex accessible WC a t entrance level,
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(I compartments in separate-sex WC and on any storey that is accessible to
E washrooms. Good practice would entail
providing as many compartments as
wheelchair users, separate-sex WC
washrooms should contain an accessible
3
0 possible to this standard, rather than cubicle and accessible facilities. Indeed,
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just one in each range. some disabled people prefer this to
unisex accommodation, as they, like
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Where there are four or more WC other users, prefer to 'go the ladies' or
2 cubicles in separate-sex accommodation, 'go to the gents' rather than to what
Q one of these should be an enlarged they may see as a special WC for
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0 cubicle for use by people who need disabled people.
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Levels of provision: how many and where?
0 A unisex accessible WC should be located 0 In situations with a high volume of

as close as possible to the entrance users, such as busy motorway service
and/or waiting area of a building. areas, it is likely to be better t o provide
accessible WCs for disabled people and
0 The location of WC accommodation in a nappy-changing facilities in separate
multi-storey building should preferably accommodation. In a small cafe or
be in a similar place on each floor, similar situation, however, integrating
which makes provision easier for people provision for as many needs as possible
to find. Where WC accommodation is in the one unisex WC may be a more
provided in various locations practicaI approach.
throughout a building (such as in a
hotel with different classes of dining 0 Where use of the WCs tends to be
facilities), accessible WCs should be concentrated a t particular times (such as
provided a t each location. during the interval a t performance
venues, half-time a t sports stadia or
0 The provision of accessories in WCs for breaks a t conference venues), extra
disabled people should be the same as levels of provision may be required so
in WC accommodation for non-disabled that disabled people have time to get
people, but it should not affect the to, use and return from the WC without
ability of wheelchair users t o manoeuvre missing important activities.
or transfer to the WC. Fixtures and
fittings should be of the same quality as AD M states that where there is space
in standard compartments. for only one WC in a building, it should
be of a wheelchair-accessible type, but
0 WCs for disabled people should be of a greater width t o accommodate a
located on accessible routes that are standing-height basin in addition to the
direct and free of obstruction. Doors finger-rinse basin adjacent t o the WC
from lavatory accommodation, when (see Figure 7, p 27).
open, should not obstruct emergency
escape routes.
0 A wheelchair user should not normally

have t o travel more than 40m on the e.
same floor to a unisex WC or a separate- EaJ
sex WC with accessible washroom and 1
lobby, or more than 40m combined 3
horizontal travel distance where WC U
C
accommodation is accessible by lift on a
>r
another floor of the building. A level C
travel distance of less than 40m is
preferable. There may be situations (for
F
3
example, if access routes are free of any 0
II
obstructions such as doors) where a ..
C
distance greater than 40m is acceptable. .-0
.-VI
>
2
a
cc
0
-
VI
aJ
>
aJ
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Desim principles
This section identifies inclusive design Good design of standard WC
principles which need to be taken into accommodation (for example, door
account to make sure that the usual opening pressure, colour contrast,
degrees of privacy, comfort and safety specification and positioning of locks
expected by any users of WCs are and taps and other fittings) can greatly
afforded to as broad a range of benefit older and disabled people who
disabled users as possible. do not use wheelchairs. See p 22 for
design guidance on standard-size WC
accommodation.
Finding and getting to
the WC Lobbies
This is affected by the number of doors Building Regulation G requires that
that have to be negotiated. WCs should 'sanitary conveniences ... shall be in
be located on accessible routes that are rooms separated from places where
easy to find, direct and free of food is stored or prepared'. This does
obstruction. not, however, imply the need for a
lobby: separation by a door is adequate.
It is important that all accessible WC
facilities are clearly indicated. Signing Lobbies should be avoided where
should be clear and consistent through- possible: negotiating successive doors
out the building. One or a combination presents considerable difficulties for
of the following might be used: wheelchair users and ambulant disabled
people, and lobbies take up a lot of
wa II- mo unted/suspended signs space. Privacy and dignity should not be
a t a height of 1400mm overlooked, however, so compartments
raised, tactile symbols should not open directly in front of lifts,
letters and arrows a t a height of for example. This is because an assistant
around 1OOOmm
colour contrast between lettering /
and background Figure 2 /
Lobbies /
/
1570mm x 750mm zone for a wheelchair user

Source BS 8300:2001 section 6.3.6.2 and figure 13 plus attendant to be clear of door swings
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Design principles
may need t o open the door to leave the Public conveniences

compartment once the disabled person
is on the WC and to enter again t o Signposting
provide assistance. Consideration should be given to
adequate directions to public
Screens without doors are preferable to conveniences for both pedestrians and
lobbies. Curtains may be appropriate in car users (where appropriate) and to
situations where, due t o lack of space, it clear signage, both outside and inside
is not possible t o fit a fixed screen. the WCs, including facilities available,
the person/authority responsible, and
how t o contact if required.
Small buildings
Access
Provision of accessible WCs in small Being able to get in and out of and
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
buildings is not always easily resolved - move around within public lavatories is
the demand on space may seem out of important for all users, especially those
proportion.. Several options may be with heavy luggage, shopping, small
appropriate including: children, prams or buggies, as well as
for people with disabilities. Stairs,
omitting lobbies, except where turnstiles and heavy doors should be
statutori ly required avoided wherever possible.
combining provision for staff and Vandalism and safety

customers CCn/ surveillance, staff in attendance
and careful location of public lavatories
0 combining accessible WC with male or - including entrances that are easy to
female provision find, well lit and not hidden by high
shrubs or fences - may attract less
0 in very small buildings with only one vandalism and feel safer, particularly
WC, making it an accessible one for women.
0 avoiding designating accessible WCs

for the exclusive use of disabled people
- facilities that are rarely used are
more likely t o end up being used as
storage space
if there is a conflict between

accessibility and privacy (for example, a
WC compartment opening straight onto
a public area), then in small buildings it
may be acceptable to compromise on
privacy

Design principles
National Key Scheme Fittings

The National Key Scheme (NKS) offers
independent access t o disabled people People with limited strength or manual
t o public conveniences which are dexterity can be helped by rails, taps,
normally locked. The scheme was the flush, door handles and other
introduced because a number of local fittings that can be operated without
authorities and other organisations needing to be firmly gripped, such as
providing facilities chose t o lock their electronic touch-flush mechanisms or
WCs t o counter vandalism and misuse or spatula-type lever handles that can be
to reduce costs. Providers - including operated by elbow pressure.
some 400 local authorities, rail providers
and other organisations - may join the With in w heelcha ir-accessible
NKS, which involves fitting standard compartments, the transfer process can
locks to the WC doors and making keys put a lot of stress not only on the
available to disabled people. Although person, but on fittings and fixtures in
administered by RADAR, the the WC compartment. In addition to
organisation states that 'it is not grabrails designed specifically for the
RADAR'S policy to encourage the locking purpose, many people use the WC pan,
of public toilets for disabled people cistern, washbasin and the like for
unless it is absolutely necessary because support. It is therefore extremely
of vandalism and misuse'. It should not important to specify good-quality
be necessary to lock internal accessible equipment, and ensure that all fittings
WCs (such as in pubs and restaurants). and fixtures are very securely fixed,
using fittings appropriate for the type
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
of wall.
Support
Well placed and firmly fixed support CoIour contrast
rails particularly benefit: and lighting
people with joint difficulties (such as People with visual impairments or with
those affected by arthritis who may learning difficulties need fittings which
find it painful to bend their knees t o contrast with the surround, such as a
s i t down) basin which is a different colour or tone
from the wall to which it is fixed. People
people with poor balance (such as with visual impairments need spaces
hemiplegics with paralysis down one that are consistently well lit throughout.
side of the body)
people with total or partial paralysis of

the lower or of both upper and lower
limbs (such as paraplegic and tetraplegic
wheelchair users)
5Q visually impaired people who use rails

-3 t o help orientate themselves within the
.-L compartment
Q
.-$, frail older people

n
G

Design principles
Safety Space
Making sure that there are no sharp or Greater space provision is required in
protruding items is important for all accessible WC facilities than in standard
users, particularly ataxic people with WC compartments for:
invoIunt a ry movements, w heeIc ha ir
users who may find the transfer from people who use wheelchairs to
wheelchair t o WC awkward, visually approach the WC compartment, enter
impaired people who may not see and close the door behind them,
the hazard, and people with learning transfer from their wheelchair to the
difficulties who may not recognise WC pan and back again, gain access
the hazard. t o the washbasin, move around
within the compartment, and leave
Floor surfaces which are not slippery through the door. The amount of space
when wet are an important safety required depends to some extent on
feature for all users, particularly people the size of the wheelchair - powered
who have poor balance, people chairs are generally larger than standard
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
transferring from a wheelchair to the wheelchairs
WC, and people with visual impairments
who may not notice that the floor is wet. people who need the assistance of one
or two people to help them transfer to
See also p 42 Emergency assistance and from and use the WC
alarms.
visually impaired or hearing impaired
people accompanied by assistance dogs

Every potential user of a WC has his or The following design guidance is likely
her own particular needs and to improve access for all users.
preferences - so it is impossible to
design a WC compartment that will suit Door handles located between 800 and
'all of the people all of the time'. 1OOOmm are reachable by people of
However, cumulative experience, short stature (this means that a person
recommended good practice in design, of short stature can use the
and recent ergonomic research into how compartments, and also prevents the
disabled people use WCs, have all possibility of someone being unable to
contributed to recognised design escape in the event of a fire).
solutions that go a long way to meeting
as many needs as possible for a broad Cubicle locks which slide and which are
range of users. AD M and British between 800 and 1OOOmm are suitable
Standard BS 8300 embody this for adults with short stature.
culmination of experience and good
practice. A minimum 450mm diameter
manoeuvring space should be provided
between the swing of an inward-
Standard-size WC opening door, the WC pan and the side
wall of the compartment (see Figure 3).
compartments
Colour or tonal contrast between
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Some disabled people may not find washbasin and splashback, cubicle door
conventional 'accessible' WCs and surroundings, and WC pan and
convenient to use: for example, people surroundings, makes identification of
of short stature (dwarfism) and people facilities easier.
with mobility problems who find larger
spaces more difficult as there is less Floors surfaces should be non-slip.
support when they are balancing to
remove or adjust clothing. They may See also section on Design detail.
prefer to use standard WCs, where the
partition walls may aid in maintaining
balance. People who, for whatever Figure 3
reason, do not feel comfortable using Standard WC compartment with
an accessible WC can benefit from a in ward-opening door
more user-friendly environment in the
standard WC.

Layouts
WC layout for ambulant Provide a coat hook a t 1200-1400mm

high, and a shelf if space permits.
disabled people Where there are four or more WC
cubicles in separate-sex accommodation,
WC compartments for ambulant one of these should be 1200mm wide
disabled people are not designed to for use by people who need extra space,
accommodate wheelchair users but are and should include a horizontal grabrail
useful for people with mobility adjacent to the WC, a vertical grabrail
impairments and for users who may on the rear wall, and space for a shelf
require more space than a standard WC, and a fold-down table.
such as parents or carers with prams or
baby buggies. At least one cubicle per See also section on Design detail.
range of WC compartments within
separate-sex accommodation should be
provided.
0 Overall dimensions: 1500mm min long x

800mm min wide. Figure 4
WC layout for ambulant
0 Ensure that the side grabrails protrude disabled people
no more than approximately 90mm
from the internal partition wall so as
600mm-long clothes hook at
not to restrict space within the cubicle.
0 Wherever possible, the door should

open outwards and be fitted with a
horizontal bar a t 1OOOmm above floor 15" or horizontal
level on the inside face. In situations
where the door opens inwards, the
750mm-long activity space must be
maintained, and the door should be
designed so that it can be opened
outwards in an emergency.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
100
k500 min -+I4 I
m
c,
-750mm
I activity space 3
clear of door swings

Lay0uts
Unisex accessible corner The corner layout can accommodate a

variety of methods of transfer (but not
WC layout all) and allows most users to wash and
dry their hands while seated on the WC
'Unisex' in recognition of the fact that before transferring back to their
disabled people using it may well be wheelchair - thereby avoiding the
assisted by a spouse, partner or carer of possibility of soiling clothes or the
the opposite sex, and 'corner' referring wheelchair.
to the position of the WC within the
compartment, this is the standard layout
recommended in BS 8300 and described
in AD M. The layout and dimensions are
based on the needs of wheelchair users,
but the compartment is equipped so
that it is also suitable for use by Figure 5
ambulant disabled people. Wheelchair-accessible corner
WC compartment: plan
rising butt hinges for

gentle door closing
recommended
\
'I\
* 750mm may be acceptable in
an existing building
\ ' w- 800mm min

+q
effective
clear width*
sanitary dispenser
if-
alternative door b
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
position II
+ waste bin
II shelf
mirror II ~,
II
II
clothes
clothes hook
hook
--+ 2200
'-
II
I
2200
z r I /
vertical grabrails
60
drop-down rail
sanitary disposal
vertical grabrail colostomy shelf for

standing users
150 320 500

Lay0uts
Overall dimensions: 22OOmm min long x Doors should open outwards wherever
1500mm min wide. This allows enough possible, and be fitted with a horizontal
space for most wheelchair users plus an closing bar on the inside face.
assistant, if required.
Use plastic-coated handrails and
0 Clear usable space: the minimum space grabrails, and drop-down rails that are
inside the compartment, clear of easy to operate.
fittings and doorswing, needs t o be
700mm x 1100mm. 0 The horizontal raiI/backrest to the rear
of the WC should be padded if there is
The dimensions relating WC pan to no WC lid to rest against. A backrest
basin and associated fittings and may not be required if the cistern is
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
equipment, and to wheelchair low-level.

manoeuvring space, are critical for
independent use. The flush should be easy t o operate and
mounted on the transfer side of the
0 This non-symmetrical layout favours cistern, within easy reach. A lever-type
access from one side only, which may be flush is recommended.
a problem for some users. Where more
than one accessible WC compartment is
provided, the layout should be reversed
(handed).
Figure 6
Wheelchair-accessiblecorner e Toilet paper dispenser
WC layout: elevation
@ Alarm reset button
F
Soap dispenser
alarm pull cord
with two red @ Paper towel dispenser
initary dispenser with bangles one at
i n slot between
50-1 OOOmm
100mm, the other
at 800-1 OOOmm
@ Hot air hand dryer
vertical grabrails \ above floor level
/
centre line
of grabrail
,- -
T
800-
1OO(
100
*height of drop-down rails to

be the same as other
horizontal grabrails
shelf padded backrest I

colostomy shelf at 950mm

Layouts
Emergency alarm systems should be Sink plumbing returned to the wall

provided. These should be audible as (rather than run to the floor) is
well as visual. The call signal outside preferred as this leaves more clear
the compartment should be located so space below the hand washbasin.
that it can be easily seen and heard by
those able to give assistance. Pull cords The boxing in of pipes should be
should extend to floor level and be easy carefully considered so as not to
to grip. See also p 42 Emergency compromise manoeuvring space.
assistance alarms.
See also section on Design detail.
Coat hooks and mirrors should be fixed
a t heights usable by standing and
seated users. A recommended height
for a coat hook is 1200mm. See p 43
Mirrors.
Fittings such as radiators, vending

machines, sanitary disposal units and
wastepaper bins should be recessed
where possible so as not to obstruct
transfer space or manoeuvrability.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Layouts
Universal WC
cornpartment
Where there is space for only one WC in

a building, the WC should be accessible
to all users. This can be achieved by
increasing the width, as for the unisex
accessible corner WC layout, from
1500mm to 2000mm to accommodate a
standing-height washbasin, a t
780-800mm rim height, as well as the
finger-rinse basin associated with the
WC (see Figure 7).
Figure 7
Suggested layouts where there is
space for only one WC in a building
1500 5,00
k /p
the standard-height washbasin

should be positioned clear of the
wheelchair turning space
T
0
0
N
N
I I<
1500 5,00
1-
I .
L, 1500
1-
500
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Layouts
Unisex accessible This layout does not provide for use of

the washbasin from the WC seat.
peninsular WC layout However, some people who use
for assisted use wheelchairs may be able to use the WC
to urinate, then adjust clothing and
The peninsular layout - so called move to the washbasin.
because of the position of the WC away
from both flank walls - allows for BS 8300 states that the peninsular
approach and transfer from either side layout, where provided, should be in
and space for one or more assistants. addition to, rather than instead of, two
This layout is only appropriate when separate unisex accessible WCs with
skilled assistance is available. reversed (handed) corner layouts.
--
The absence of fixed grabrails means
that there is insufficient support for
some people to transfer independently
(although some people can manage to
transfer using just the wheelchair and Figure 8
seat for support). Wheelchair-accessiblepeninsular
WC layout: plan
Ic \
\
towel rail
7
- T- - -
1500mm x 15OOmm
sanitary dispenser
shelf
I wheelchair turning space waste bin
two clothes hooks
alarm
0
0
N
/dra, down rail
ir mirror
- 1400
150 320
,.
.A
320 150
1000 4
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-

Lay0uts
Overall dimensions: 2200mm min long x Larger peninsular layout is suitable for
2400mm min wide. accommodating an adult changing table
(see p 34 Adult changing facilities) for
Basins should be approachable in a the benefit of severely disabled people
wheelchair with all associated fittings and their carers, so long as the table is
within reach. positioned outside the minimum
1500mm x 1500mm wheelchair turning
space shown in Figure 8.
See also section on Design detail.
Figure 9
Wheelchair-accessiblepeninsular
WC layout: elevation
__ alarm pull cord with

two red bangles
-600-700 4
-
db
I
II T=i
T I
padded
back rest\
3
-
T
0
Qo 0
I
A-
N
h
Soap dispenser
@ Hot air hand dryer
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Layouts
Separate-sex provision Where separate-sex washrooms can be

accessed by wheelchair users, it should
There are some disabled people who be possible for them to use both a
prefer accessible separate-sex provision, urinal (in male facilities) and washbasin
in line with what the general a t a lower height than is provided for
population expect - t o be able t o 'go to other users.
the ladies' or 'go to the gents'. Where
space permits, accessible compartments Follow guidance as for the unisex
could be located within both male and accessible corner WC layout, p 24.
female accommodation, but (unless
these are an alternative to unisex
accommodation) this poses problems for
opposite-sex carers. Where accessible
compartments are provided only within
same-sex accommodation, it is
preferable that they be located as near
as possible to the entrance.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Layouts
Urinals Male wheelchair users may be able to

pull themselves to a standing position to
Ambulant disabled men who have use a urinal or may be able to use a
difficulty standing or balancing benefit urinal from their wheelchair.
from suitably positioned grabrails either
side of the urinal. It is recommended Space in front of the urinal should be
that steps up to urinals are avoided level (see Figure 70 for required size of
where possible. level areas for wheelchair users and
ambulant disabled people).
Within banks of urinals, consider
positioning one or more a t a lower Lower-height urinals can benefit some
height t o suit children and people of wheelchair users and people of
-
short stature. restricted height.
760 900
Figure 10 horizontal
Urinals grabraiI
wall space kept free
--
of pipework to
e Ievat ion 0
200mm above floor
7' 0
unless urinal
I I
projects more than

0
0
I the minimum
1 ' 360mm from wall
T I
360 min horizontal grabrail
L I
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
. 0 900mm wide x
plan
1350mm deep for
I wheelchair users and
ambulant disabled
I people
I
c - - -I
Layouts
Where there are no privacy dividers layout of urinal areas

between urinals in a stall, vertical consider providing: adequate space (to
grabrails should be provided on either avoid overcrowding); 1OOOmm between
side of each urinal. urinals; use of partitioning between the
urinal area and the washbasin/hand
In wheelchair-accessible washrooms, dryer area so as to prevent men in the
provide a t least one lower-level urinal latter area being able to view the
with grabrails (see Figure 70). urinals; and adequate screening of the
urinals from the entry door
Urinals should contrast in colour, tone
and luminance (degree of reflection) 'line of sight' privacy
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
with the wall. This is preferable to screens between urinals prevent other
having to feel for the urinal. users (both next-urinal users and other
men in the room) from seeing whether
A new design of female urinal being or not the person is urinating. As a
marketed currently may be of use to minimum, screens should be from
users who cannot bend their knees, but approximately shoulder-height down to
this has not yet been tested in practice knee-height, but preferably head-height
by a significant number of disabled to improve the feeling of personal
women. space. Where light is an issue, frosted
panels may be used
Shy bladder syndrome
'Shy bladder syndrome' (or avoidant use of background music or sea sounds
paruresis) describes an anxiety disorder is preferred to 'unnatural' silence
where a person finds it difficult or
impossible to urinate in the presence See also case study on p 33. For more
(real or perceived) of another person. information on paruresis, contact UKPA
The degree of severity will depend both (see Organisations) or see website
on the individual man or woman www.shybladder.org.uk
concerned and also on the WC
environment. Nine out of ten people
with shy bladder syndrome are men,
largely due to the convention of the
male urinal.
A significant proportion of men find

open-plan, trough-like urinals with no
dividers difficult to use and may be
forced to resort to using cubicles, which
causes further embarrassment and
increased anxiety. The UK Paruresis
Association (UKPA) guidelines stress
principles of design that can reduce
a nxiety, inc Iud ing:

Layouts
Case s t
Wetherspoon, Macclesfield
This recent refurbishment of a
Wetherspoon pub in Macclesfield
illustrates many features of good
design for people with shy bladder
syndrome (see p 32) in the male
WC area.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
On entering the room, urinals are Dividers between urinals

not visible
Screen separates urinal area from Urinals are out of view from tha
basins. When standing at a urinal, basins
there is no-one directly behind user

Layouts
A d dt changing facilities Hoists

Lifting people in and out of
Some people who are being cared for wheelchairs, on and off benches or to
by family members need to be laid flat and from the WC can put a tremendous
to be changed within WC amount of strain on the carer or carers.
accommodation. They include people If attended by professional support
with profound and multiple disabilities workers, there may be legal restrictions
who have continence problems, some on personal lifting. Mechanical lifting
very frail older people, and some people hoists with variable styles and sizes of
with severe physical disabilities. In WC slings effect transfer between the
compartments without changing wheelchair, bench and WC.
facilities, carers have to change the
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
person on the floor, which is both Accessories

unhygienic and undignified and A wide, tear-off paper roll to cover the
involves heavy lifting, with the potential bench and a large waste bin for
risk of serious damage to the carers' disposable pads are also recommended.
backs. It is recommended that adult
changing facilities be considered in See also case study, p 35 and details of
large-scale developments such as the PAMIS video Time for a Change.
shopping centres, leisure centres and
motorway service areas.
PAMIS (the Profound and Multiple

Impairment Service) recommends larger
than standard-size peninsular-layout
accessible compartments measuring
3500mm x 2000mm to provide enough
space for the person with the disability,
the wheelchair, a changing bench, hoist
and one or two carers.
Changing benches
Options to consider are:
0 height-adjustable wall-mounted folding

benches, which can be adjusted
manually or electrically, and can be
positioned a t a height which is
comfortable for transfer and for the
carer. These are useful in confined
spaces, as they fold flat when not in use.
Many have optional side rails for safety
0 free-standing benches, which are raised

and lowered hydraulically or electrically.
A two-section plinth with a washable
padded surface and pair of side rails for
,,, safety is most suitable
?i

Layouts
I Case studv
thecentre:mk
As part of a f 16m refurbishment of a
shopping centre in Mifton Keynes,
thecentre:m k dramatically improved
customer WC facilities by providing:
double the number of male and

female WCs than previously
left and right-hand transfer unisex
compartments
a compartment fitted with a
changing bench and hoist
parent and child/baby-changing
facility to including nursing room
with television and spacious baby-
changing area; bottle warmers;
changing stations with special
toddler seats; a water fountain and
vending machines for nappies,
dummies and baby wipes; wall-
mounted toys and a decorated floor Enlarged compartment fitted with
to keep toddlers entertained; a baby aduit changing bench and hoist
mat and mobile plus magazines for
mums to read while feeding
In 1999 the centre won two National

Loo of the Year Awards for
accessible WCs and baby-changing
faci Iities.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Good-quality finishes ana improved Parent and childbaby-changing area %

cu

Provided by S&P Global
lighting
m
Licensee=Institute of Technology Sligo/5974795001, User=User, Institute Of Techn
-I
Layouts
Combined WC/
shower faci Iities
Where space permits, shower
compartments are best separated from
WC accommodation. However, where
provided in conjunction with accessible
WC facilities, the shower should also be
Figure 1 1
accessible.
Cornbined WUshower facilities
< 2400 4
500 -320*
drain ~
alarm pull cord.

vertical grabrail -
drop-down rail ==
-------
fall of floor
towel rail -
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
'
\/' - / I'

Layouts
FaciIities for c hiIdren Facilities for babies

Consideration should be given where Baby-changing facilities
appropriate to the needs of children, Ideal provision would include:
particularly, for example, in visitor
attractions, leisure facilities and a separate area for nappy-changing
shopping centres. facilities, including a safe, hygienic
surface, paper roll dispenser for lining
Many children are deterred from the table and cleaning babies, shelf
independent use of WC facilities by space for belongings and cleaning
aggressive door closers and stiff locks materials, warm water and a nappy
which cause them to fear being locked disposal bin
into cubicles. In some circumstances, for
example in large shopping or leisure additional children's WC
centres, it might be possible to provide
a children's WC, perhaps in conjunction facilities available t o either sex and
with a nappy-changing area. accessible to disabled parents or carers
Parents and carers of young children two changing tables a t 800 and
find larger compartments invaluable, 1200mm for shorter and taller people
as they may need to keep them under respectively
supervision while they use the WC
themselves. Small children need In restricted spaces, a 'pull-down' facility
assistance in the WC, which also is acceptable.
requires extra space.
AD M states that wheelchair-accessible
unisex WCs should not be used for
baby-changing.
Breast and bottle-feeding
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
It is not hygienic to have breast-feeding
areas within general WC provision. Ideal
provision would include separate breast-
feeding areas restricted to women, with
enough space for a chair, double buggy
and nappy-cha nging f aci Iit ies.

Design detail
Doors, door handles Alternatives t o outward-opening doors:
an inward-opening door - so long as
and locks the door does not prevent wheelchair
manoeuvring - fitted with a device
0 Outward-opening doors are strongly which allows the door t o be opened in
recommended for all accessible WC an emergency; or sliding door.
compartments, and are included in
guidance in AD M. This is very 0 A visual indicator showing whether the
important for people with mobility or WC is vacant or occupied in both words
balance impairments. Someone who and colour change is recommended.
collapses in the compartment may fall
against the door, preventing it from Lever-action door handles are
opening inwards. It is therefore much recommended (spherical or circular
easier t o provide assistance if the door shapes and twist-turn knobs are difficult
opens outwards. for people with arthritis or weak grip).
It should be possible for most users t o
Doors from WC compartments should open the door with one hand.
not obstruct emergency escape routes D-handles are not recommended, as it is
when they are open. (It may, however, difficult for some people t o hold the
be permissible for a door t o open door in the closed position while
outwards into an escape route if the operating the lock.
door swings in the direction of
emergency escape.) Door-opening pressure should not be
greater than 20 newtons. It is important
Clear opening width should be a t least that the weight of the door and the
equal t o that provided by a 1OOOmm door closer should not be too heavy for
doorset or a 900/914mm door. ease of use by all disabled people.
An emergency release mechanism 0 Locks and latches should be easy t o

incorporated into the lock and operated operate using one hand, without having
from the outside should be fitted t o the t o tightly grasp the locking mechanism
door. or twist the wrist, for example by using
a closed fist.
0 A horizontal pull bar should be fitted t o
the inside of an outward-opening door 0 Rising butt hinges t o assist in closing the
so that someone in a wheelchair can door are recommended as they preclude
pull the door closed behind them. The the need for heavy door-closing
door needs t o be robust enough so that mechanisms.
the bar can be securely fixed.
Automated doors with press-button
opening, closing and locking systems are
not recommended, as many users feel
insecure about their privacy when using
the WC.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Design detail
wcs In a corner layout, the flush mechanism

should be positioned on the open
WC pans in wheelchair-accessible (transfer) side of the pan for ease of
compartments and compartments for use. Flushes located on the wall side are
ambulant disabled people should difficult t o reach by people using
conform t o BS 5503-3 or BS 5504-4 so wheelchairs.
that variable-height seat risers can
be used. Where the cistern is built into a duct or
is located a t a higher level, a horizontal
The shape of the WC pan is important. grabrail with a padded backrest for
Many wheelchair users and ambulant comfort can aid transfer.
disabled people need to clean
themselves while sitting on the WC, and The top surface of the WC seat should
in some cases may need to manually be set a t a height of 480mm above
empty their bowels. It is useful if the pan finished floor level -this is the same
offers a wide opening. seat height as the majority of
wheelchairs. However, many disabled
0 Wall-mounted cantilevered WC pans are people need greater height, and
preferred, because they allow feet and may carry seat risers with them. It is
wheelchair footrests to move under the essential that the WC can accommodate
WC pan rim, making access easier for a seat riser.
wheelchair users.
The seat in a wheelchair-accessible WC
The WC should be made of a tough should be designed for heavy-duty use
material, the pan fixing must be strong, and be securely fixed into the rim of the
and effective seat stabilisers are WC, as a wheelchair user transferring
important, as many transfers are from a wheelchair imposes high lateral
awkward and not controlled. stress on the seat and seat fixings.
Where possible, the flush should be The position of the cistern and/or
operated by a spatula-type lever, which support rail and backrest behind the
is the easiest shape for the widest range WC should allow the seat to tilt beyond
of people to use, possibly with the the vertical when fully raised so that the
elbow (if the person has sufficient WC can be used as a urinal. A backrest
movement of the arm) rather than the may not be required so long as the
hand. A push-button flush mechanism is cistern is low-level and comfortable to
acceptable so long as the button lean against.
protrudes from the surface and the
required pressure is not too great. Seat covers are not recommended, as
A chain pull is an they may impede transfer when raised.
alternative, but However, well designed and firmly
care should be fitted seats when raised can provide
taken in its useful back support for the user.
positioning and
ease of operation.
Automatic magic-
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eye' flushing, if
used, should be
clearly indicated.

Design detail
Gap-front seats are not recommended, Hygienic disposal units

because they make transfer from
wheelchair to WC more difficult. An Disposal units for sanitary towels, bags
independent user with paralysis may and pads should be provided in all
get a leg trapped in the gap when accessible WCs.
lifting themselves off the WC seat.
However, some women users who need They should be located so as not to
to catheterise themselves do prefer gap- obstruct transfer from the wheelchair t o
front seats, so in situations where there the WC pan (see Figures 5, 6 and 8).
are a number of WC compartments
together, one may be provided. A disposal unit should have an aperture
big enough to take incontinence pads
Plinths should be avoided wherever (which are larger than sanitary towels).
possible. However, if used to achieve This will reduce the likelihood of them
the right seat height, plinths should not being disposed of in the WC and
obstruct access to and use of the WC causing a blockage.
by wheelchair users and ambulant
disabled people.
Shelves
Consideration could be given to the
installation of automatic body-cleansing A shelf should be provided, for use by
and drying facilities to avoid the people when changing colostomy bags
need for hand-rinsing when seated on or for other equipment, a t 950mm
the WC. above floor level, close to the WC
(see Figures 5, 6 and 8).
Paper dispensers
Grabrails
Should be within easy reach of the WC,
allowing those with limited or weak Weight-bearing grabrails are used t o
arm movements t o access them easily. provide support and stability when
transferring, sitting down and standing
Dispensers should be lockable to up, and while adjusting clothing.
prevent paper rolls being stolen, and
suitable for single-handed use and for For positioning of grabrails see Figures
use by people with impaired arm 1 and 3-1 1 . Avoid adding in other rails
movements or limited grip. Single-sheet which can create a barrier t o accessing
dispensers are the WC.
preferred. Certa in
types of dispensers Grabrails should be 32-35mm in
may be difficult or diameter, giving the most comfortable
impossible for grip for users with little strength or
some disabled movement in their hands, and should
people to use, such allow 50-60mm clearance for knuckles.
as when the loose
-
.- end of a paper roll
a
+
a, gets wrapped
U round the roll
c inside the holder.
m
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`

Design detail
It is important that rails are securely Washbasins

fixed t o the wall using the appropriate
type of fixing, so that they can support For position of washbasins and adjacent
the weight of a person. Strengthened grabrails see Figures 1, 5-9 and 11.
wall fixings may be required, for
example t o partition walls, especially Washbasins should contrast in colour,
where these are thin. tone and luminance (degree of
shineheflection) with the walls and
They should be easy t o grip when wet; surfaces around them.
plastic coating is recommended, ideally
with a slightly ridged surface. Hand-rinse basins should be fitted with
a single mixer tap which is either
A hinged drop-down rail is used in controlled automatically or has a lever
combination with a fixed wall rail by action that can be operated by people
relatively independent users t o provide with poor grip by using the flat of the
support when lowering themselves hand, wrist or elbow.
onto the seat. Such rails should be of a
type that can easily be pulled down by a It is recommended that the tap is
person when seated on a WC and that positioned on the side of the basin
do not need t o be lifted up before nearest the WC so that it can be easily
being lowered. reached by someone seated on the WC.
The advantage of side-mounting is that
BS 8300 recommends that drop-down it is easier t o wash out urine bottles
rails should 'incorporate vertical support under the tap by angling them in the
struts, set back from the front edge of basin (it is impossible t o rinse out a
the rail by a t least half i t s projection urine bottle in a small basin under a
from the wall so as not t o impede centralised tap).
wheelchair access'. At the time of
writing, no such design of drop-down The basin size in unisex accessible corner
rail could be identified as readily WC layouts is small, and although this
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
available on the commercial market, so means it can be positioned near the WC
where the drop-down rail does not have without taking up too much transfer
vertical support struts, it should be space, it is awkward t o wash out
capable of bearing a weight of 171 kg equipment such as urine bottles and
applied both vertically and a t 45" t o catheterising equipment and for
vertical as well as significant lateral disabled women t o deal with
force. Drop-down rails must be securely menstruation. One possible solution
fixed t o the wall. can be t o recess a slightly larger basin
into the wall if the structure of the
Vertical rails are used for pulling back compartment permits this.
up t o a standing position. They are also
important for a male with impaired Hot water from a washbasin should not
mobility standing t o empty his bladder exceed 41°C a t the outlet. In small hand-
(perhaps when sticks or crutches have rinse basins, ensure that the water
been put t o one side). supply through a mixer tap is not too
forceful, otherwise the water simply
For ease of identification, grabrails shoots out from the basin, soaking the
should contrast in colour, tone and user and making the floor very wet.
Iuminance (degree of sh ine/reflection)
with surfaces against which they are
seen.

Design detail
Soap dispensers Controls, buttons and coin slots for

should be located dispensers and vending machines should
directly above be visible, easy to operate and
washbasins to preferably within a height range of
avoid soap 750-1 200mm. Where dispensers are
dripping onto the lower, they should be a t least 450mm
floor and making above floor level.
it slippery, and be
suitable for single-
handed use by Emergency assista nce
people with weak
arm movements. alarms
They should be designed so that they
Hand drying are not confused with fire alarms.
Paper towel The pull cord should be sited so that it

dispensers should can be operated from the WC and from
be suitable for the adjacent floor area (in case someone
single-handed use falls), but ideally not in the transfer
by people with space. The cord should be coloured red
weak arm and extend to 1OOmm from finished
movements. floor level. BS 8300 recommends two red
bangles on the cord set a t the bottom
Automatic hand dryers should be and a t 800-1OOOmm above floor level.
provided in addition to a paper towel
dispenser, located on the door side of A clearly marked reset button, reachable
the washbasin. So long as the paper from both a wheelchair and the WC,
towel dispenser is easily reached while should be provided. If the precise
seated on the WC, the automatic hand configuration of the alarm pull cord and
dryer may be positioned further away reset mechanism varies, it is important
from the basin. that the functions are clearly marked.
The emergency assistance alarm

Dispensers and vending indicator outside the WC compartment
machines should be located so that it easily seen
and heard by people (for example, staff
Sanitary towel and incontinence pad elsewhere in the building) able t o give
dispensers are often omitted from assistance, and should indicate where
accessible WCs, but there is no logical help is needed.
justification for this. Dispensers should
be provided in all unisex and female- Visual and audible feedback should be
only WCs. They should not reduce clear provided to indicate that the emergency
width of door openings or impede on assistance system has been activated
wheelchair circulation space. when the cord has been pulled to
-
.- reassure someone needing assistance.
a
aJ
+.’
Vending machines for condoms,
U toothbrushes etc should not reduce
.-&, clear width of door openings or impede
$ wheelchair circulation space.
n
[oal --`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Design detail
Fire alarms Shaver points: if provided, they should

be located a t the side of the mirror.
They should be visible (flashing light) as
well as audible. This is important, as Disposal bins for paper towels and
deaf people are likely t o use the WC other general rubbish should be easy t o
unaccompanied. operate (for example, a swing-bin
which does not require much pressure
t o open), and should be positioned so
Mirrors as not t o impede wheelchair circulation
space. A deep bin with a high lid is
The recommended position for a mirror easier for people with mobility
within an accessible corner WC is on the impairments.
wall opposite the handbasin (see
Figure 5).
Vent iIat ion
According t o BS 8300, a mirror ranging
from 600-1OOOmm meets the needs of Where single-compartment accessible
both wheelchair users and ambulant WCs are kept locked between use, it is
disabled people. However, with a particularly important t o provide
bottom edge of 600mm, this does not adequate air ventilation (or an air-
allow someone seated in a wheelchair freshening system).
t o check that their below-the-waist
clothing is adjusted before leaving the
WC, so it is preferable t o extend the
mirror down t o 500mm above floor
level. If lower, wheelchair footrests The general lighting level (or
may damage the mirror, so extending 'maintained illuminance') in WC
the mirror t o floor level is not accommodation should be a t least 100
recommended. lux. However, higher levels are
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
recommended, particularly for reading
Large expanses of mirror should be instructions on vending or dispensing
avoided, as they can cause difficulties machines.
for visually impaired people.
For individually controlled lighting, if a
pull cord is provided instead of a wall-
Other accessories mounted switch, it should be set
between 900 and 11OOm above the
Coat hooks: in unisex accessible WCs, it floor and located within 150mm of the
is recommended that a t least two coat leading edge of the door.
hooks are provided - one a t 1400mm
and the other a t 1050mm above floor Automatic lighting, where used, should
level. If only one can be provided, the be supplemented by heat-sensitive
preferred height is 12OOmm. back-up lighting. The timing of
automatic lights should take into
Shelves: provision of a shelf adjacent t o account the extra time that many
the washbasin, for placing items of disabled people take t o use the WC. -
.-
r[l
equipment.or handbags off a floor +
a,
which might be wet, is essential for Consider provision of secondary lighting
S
people with hand or mobility in the event of failure of the main .-ETI
impairments (see Figures 5, 6 and 8 for
position5).
lighting system. c
n
El
Design detail
Heating Finishes
WC compartments should be adequately Fittings and aids (such as WC seats,
heated to provide a temperature of 2 O O C . grabrails and hand dryers) should all
Radiators or other heating devices contrast with the background wall and
should not be sited where they reduce floor finishes in terms of colour, tone
wheelchair manoeuvring or transfer and luminance (degree of reflectivity).
space. In a unisex accessible WC, heaters A band of different colour tiles may also
should not be located on the same wall be used as a visual indicator of fittings
as the WC or adjacent to it; on the wall and fixtures.
directly opposite the washbasin (unless
the width of the compartment is Provide visual contrast between wall
increased t o accommodate it); or and floor surfaces.
underneath the washbasin or hand
dryer. Recessing heaters into the wall, if 0 Shiny wall and floor surfaces should be
practicable, is recommended. avoided, as they may produce
reflections and glare that confuse
Exposed surfaces of heaters should be visually impaired people. Small mosaic
screened t o protect from burns unless tiling tends to be less reflective because
maintained a t a temperature below there is a higher ratio of grout t o tiling.
43°C. Low-surface-temperature radiators
are recommended. Slip-resistant floor surfaces, even when
wet, are particularly important for both
visually impaired people and people
using wheelchairs, sticks and crutches.
--`,``,````,,,`,```

'Accessibility cannot be guaranteed by opportunities for change (for example,
good design alone. How WC a t routine maintenance or when a
accommodation is managed - whether major refit is planned), demonstrating a
within buildings or in separate facilities serious commitment to making
- has a huge impact on how easy it will buildings more accessible to everyone.
be for disabled people to use.
Management checklist
Access audits
The following checklist will help achieve
Access audits are a useful starting point good practice in the management of
in assessing the current state of faci Iities:
accessibility and usability of existing
buildings. Buildings which are designed External approach routes - ensure that
or adapted bearing in mind the access paths, ramps and steps to public WCs
needs of people with different are kept clean, unobstructed and, in
disabilities are likely to be more flexible winter, free of ice.
and make it easier for employers and
service providers to meet the Internal corridors, lobbies, lifts etc -
requirements of the DDA. An access ensure that spaces required for
audit can form the basis of an ongoing wheelchair circulation t o and from
access action plan. CAE's film Access accessible WCs are not obstructed by
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Audits: a planning tool for businesses deliveries or storage.

uses a case-study approach to explain
what an access audit is and how i t s Doors - ensure that doors and door
recommendations can be used to ironmongery in WC accommodation are
improve a business's premises and regularly maintained.
customer service.
Storage - ensure that accessible WC
compartments are not used as unofficial
Access plans and access storage areas.
strategies Supplies - ensure that supplies of toilet

tissue, sanitary towels, soap and paper
Access plans or access strategies are the towels are regularly replenished.
best way of ensuring that the
information gathered and Signs - ensure that signs indicating WCs
recommendations made in the access are replaced correctly when removed
audit are effectively used. The plan or for redecoration. VI
strategy should include regular aJ
monitoring and updating of the audit, Alarms - ensure that alarm systems in
2
.-
v)
since even without major structural WCs are regularly checked, that pull +-'
c
adaptations, buildings and the way they
are used change over time. Access plans
cords are not tied up out of reach, and
that staff are trained in alarm response
EaJ
OI
or strategies take a long-term view of procedures. (0
improving access and identify c

Management issues
Equipment and fittings - ensure that

dispensers, door handles, locks, hand
dryers, heaters etc are maintained in
good working order.
Surfaces - ensure that cleaning and

polishing do not render slip-resistant
f Ioor surf aces s Iippery.
Redecorating - ensure that the

redecoration of WC compartments does
not compromise a carefully selected
colour scheme which helps people
orientate themselves within the
compartment and identify equipment
and fittings.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Lighting - ensure that blown light bulbs
along routes, in lobbies and in WC
accommodation are replaced swiftly.
Cleanliness - ensure that WCs are

regularly cleaned.
Staff training - ensure that staff

understand the importance of
maintenance and management of WCs
and are suitably trained to provide
emergency assistance to disabled people
in WCs if required.
Information - provide information on

the nearest accessible WC if none is
provided, or on alternative accessible
WCs if the usual one is out of order for
any reason.
Policy issues - review the number of

people, including disabled people, using
a building and needing WC facilities.
m
C

Legis Iat ion Further practical advice
The Building Regulations 2000 Access Audits: a guide and checklist for
Approved Document M: Access to and appraising the accessibility of public
use of buildings buildings
ODPM, 2003 CAE, 2003
Includes guidance notes, series of
BS 8300:2001 Design of buildings and checklists, film Access Audits: a planning
their approaches to meet the needs of tool for businesses and design guide for
disabled people - Code of practice public buildings Designing for
BSI, 2001 Accessibility.
Disability Discrimination Act 1995 Access Audits: a planning tool for

The Stationery Office 1995 businesses
CAE, 2003
Code of Practice for the Elimination of Prize-winning f iIm which explains what
Discrimination in the field of an access audit is and how i t s
Employment against Disabled Persons recommendations can be used t o
or Persons who have had a Disability improve a business's premises and
(Part 2) customer services. Available on VHS
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Disability Rights Commission, 1996 cassette, CD ROM and DVD, with

subtitles or BSL.
Code of Practice for Rights of Access to
Goods, Facilities, Services and Premises Better Public Toilets
(Part 3) BTA, 2001
Disability Rights Commission, 2002 Comprehensive guide t o the provision
and management of away-from-home
toilets.
Bringing the DDA to Life for Small

Shops: improving access to goods and
services for disabled customers
Disability Rights Commission, 2000
Series of booklets featuring case studies
of a Hairdressing salon, Newsagent,
Cafe and Clothes shop.
Designing for Accessibility

CAEIRIBA Enterprises, 2004
Up-to-date and user-friendly good
practice guide based on the 2004
Approved Document M and VI
BS 8300:2001. c
0

Pub Iicat ions
Disability Discrimination Act 1995: An

Introduction for Small and Medium-
Sized Businesses
Disability Rights Commission, 1999
Is There An Accessible Loo?: The

essential companion guide to the
English directory of accessible loos
ITAA L, 200 1
Covers issues and concerns for disabled
people using accessible loos and
guidance on planning, building and
managing accessible WCs.
Making access to goods and services

easier for disabled customers:
a practical guide for small businesses
and other small service providers
Disability Rights CommissionlE q uali ty
Commission for Northern Ireland, 2002
Helps small businesses and other service
providers in all sectors of the economy
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
meet their duties under the DDA.
Time for a Change: the need for adult

changing facilities in accessible loos
PAMIS, 2003
Video describing the need for WC
accommodation a t major venues t o
incorporate larger compartments with
adjustable-height changing benches and
hoists for disabled people who cannot
use the WC independently.

..-
A
British Standards Institution (BSI) Is There An Accessible Loo? (ITAAL)
389 Chiswick High Road 10 Stilecroft Gardens
London W4 4AL North Wembley
Tel: 020 8996 9000 Middlesex HA0 3HE
Fax: 020 8996 7001 Tel: 020 8904 8321
Website: www. bsi.0rg.uk Ema iI: Acc LooProj8ao I.com
Publishes British Standards including BS Produces a directory of accessible loos in

8300:2001 Design of buildings and their England and works to increase public
approaches to meet the needs of understanding and appreciation of the
disabled people - Code of practice. personal care needs of disabled people.
British Toilet Association PAMIS (Profound and Multiple

Lane End Impairment Service)
Edward Road Springfield House
Winchester SO23 9RB 15-16 Springfield
Tel: 01962 850277 The University of Dundee
Fax: 01962 870220 Dundee DDI 4JE
Email: Britloos@co.com Tel: 01382 345154
Email: pamis@dundee.ac.uk
Aims to raise the profile of the current We bsite: www.d undee.ac.uk/pa mis
poor state of Britain's municipal WCs.
Provides families caring for people with
Centre for Accessible Environments profound and multiple learning
Nutmeg House disability with information and practical
60 Gainsford Street help on all aspects of care, therapy,
London SE1 2NY rights and entitlements.
Tekextphone: 020 7357 8182
Fax: 020 7357 8183 RADAR
Email: infoC3cae.org.u k 12 City Forum
Webs ite: www.ca e. o rg.uk 250 City Road
London EClV 8AF
Information, training, consultancy and Tel: 020 7250 3222
publications on inclusive design. Textphone: 020 7250 41 19
Fax: 020 7250 0212
Disability Rights Commission Ema iI : rada r@rada r.o rg.uk
DRC Helpline Website: www.radar.0rg.uk
Freepost MID02164
Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9BR Administers the National Key Scheme.
Tel: 08457 622 633
Textphone: 08457 622 644
Fax: 08457 778 878
E ma iI: enq uiry@drc-gb.org
Website: www.drc.0rg.uk
Publishes codes of practice and other

guidance on the DDA.
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Organisations
Royal Institute of British Architects

(RIBA)
66 Portland Place
London WIB IAD
Tel: 020 7580 5533
Fax: 020 7255 1541
EmaiI: info@inst.riba .org
We bsite: www.a rchitecture.com
The RIBA advances architecture by

demonstrating benefits to society and
excellence in the profession.
The Stationery Off ice Ltd

PO Box 29
S t Crispins
Duke Street
Norwich NR3 I G N
Tel: 0870 600 5522
Fax: 0870 600 5533
EmaiI: book.orders@tso.co.uk
OnIine ordering :
www.tso.co.uk/bookshop
Sells printed versions of any item of

legislation or any other official
publication previously published by
HMSO.
UK Paruresis Association
Box 420
Silk House
Park Green
Macclesfield SKI 1 7QJ
Email: UKPA@iclway.co.uk
Website: www.shybladder.org.uk
Information on research, treatment and

support groups for people with shy
bIa dder syndrome (paruresi5).
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

About CAE Nicholls & Clarke
The Centre for Accessible Environments PhIexicare
is an information provider and a forum
for collaborative dialogue between N&C Phlexicare has enjoyed a close
providers and users on how the built working relationship with CAE for a
environment can best be made or number of years. Working in synergy
modified t o achieve inclusion by design. with CAE, N&C Phlexicare provides
product-specific expertise.
Founded in 1969, registered as a charity
in 1976, the Centre is the acknowledged N&C Phlexicare has some 30 years'
centre of excellence on the practicalities experience in the disability and elderly
of designing for accessibility. As a care markets, and offers a diverse range
of innovative products, including
--`,``,````,,,`,````,,`,,,,,,,,`-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
charity, we have a mission t o share our
knowledge and expertise. Our services accessible WCs, grabrails, and a new
include information, training, height-adjustable kitchen range. Most
consultancy and publications. are designed and manufactured by the
company itself. To support the
company's portfolio of products, N&C
About RIBA Enterprises Phlexicare has just released the tenth
edition of its catalogue, which profiles
RlBA Enterprises is a leading provider of 2,500 specialist independent living
information in the fields of architecture products and services and is one of
and construction for specifiers and the most comprehensive resources of
manufacturers, as well as for engineers, i t s kind.
surveyors, construction Iawyers,
contractors, academics and students. Call 020 8586 4600 for further details.
We bsite: www. phlexicare.com
We are committed t o delivering a wide
range of products and services each
year, t o the highest quality, in practice
management, construction law, design,
specifying, construction contracts, forms
of appointment and associated
guidance and monographs.
With a comprehensive range of

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The Good Loo Design Guide

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The Good Loo Design Guide

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I Inclusive Environments

Licensee=Institute of Technology Sligo/5974795001, User=User, Institute Of Techn

Copyright Centre for Accessible Environments

Copyright Centre for Accessible Environments

building and its facilities' 'Approved Documents' which give

British Standard BS 8300 Transport and the Regions. BS 8300

Copyright Centre for Accessible Environments

Disability Discrimination Each Part of the DDA is supported by

Discrimination may also occur when

Copyright Centre for Accessible Environments

Copyright Centre for Accessible Environments

Who uses accessible WCs? anyone travelling alone with luggage

and grabrails movements make them particularly

they use the WC children under the age of five. .-S

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How do wheelchair This kind of transfer is only possible for

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* do not reduce effective space with pipes,

all equipment within reach of seated

Frontal transfer Oblique transfer

using grabrails to using grabrails

Lateral transfer right-handed Lateral transfer

one wheel backed

both wheels backed

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Due to our national reticence few

Anthony has Friedrichs ataxia, a

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Using grabrsils for support these

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Copyright Centre for Accessible Environments

isted angled transfer

Anne Davies OBE

Anne has multiple sclerosis, which has

head on tb thg loo and the

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Anne lowers the drop-down rail

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Janet is blind and is

lanet and her dog a d a rosriCjr, standadkd

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lale:female ratios Wheelchair-accessible

"ummr ot male cubicles plus number In hotels and motels, unisex WC

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0 A unisex accessible WC should be located 0 In situations with a high volume of

0 A wheelchair user should not normally

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1570mm x 750mm zone for a wheelchair user

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may need t o open the door to leave the Public conveniences

combining provision for staff and Vandalism and safety

0 avoiding designating accessible WCs

if there is a conflict between

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National Key Scheme Fittings

people with total or partial paralysis of

5Q visually impaired people who use rails

.-$, frail older people

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Copyright Centre for Accessible Environments

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WC layout for ambulant Provide a coat hook a t 1200-1400mm

0 Overall dimensions: 1500mm min long x

0 Wherever possible, the door should