Using the bathroom numerous times during the day may seem inconvenient for some people, but the reality is that it is even more complicated if you have a disability. For instance, what do you do if you are in a wheelchair and discover that your restroom doesn’t have a wheelchair-accessible stall? It could signify expensive fines or troublesome litigation for property managers and business owners. That is why the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became federal law. This article explores the significance of installing ADA-compliant toilets in your business place.
ADA Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted in 1990 to prevent discrimination based on a person’s disability. The ADA mandates that U.S. companies serving the public must comply with accessibility regulations. This applies to all public, commercial, and employee restrooms. In particular, installing ADA-compliant toilets in your business would be beneficial.
From Annapolis to Potomac, MD, and everywhere in between, B&D Plumbing has seen and installed it all. If you are a business owner who needs to satisfy ADA requirements for an accessible workplace, call us at 301-595-1141 for installation, repair, and service of custom fixtures such as:
- ADA compliant toilets
- ADA compliant sinks
- Garbage disposals
- Icemakers
- Utility room drains
- And much more!
Visual Signage
Signage tells people where the restroom is located, and it is typically the first thing people search for when looking for a restroom. To comply with ADA regulations, place clear, easy-to-see images and symbols and raise Braille characters on the bathroom signs. Persons with visual impairments will be able to see them, indicating your company’s accessibility.
Prioritize Floor Spacing
The Americans with Disabilities Act emphasizes the significance of floor space for wheelchair maneuverability in public and commercial restrooms. In particular, facilities must provide at least 60 inches of floor space that ADA-compliant toilets or sinks don’t take up.
Required Under-Sink Clearance
ADA regulations require a sink in every public restroom with the following dimensions:
- Must be at least 34 inches above the floor
- 27-30 inches wide and 11-25 inches deep in knee clearance
These dimensions will ensure that average-sized wheelchairs have sufficient clearance. In addition, all dispensers, faucets, and dryers must be operable with a single hand since the upper extremity and the loss of a hand is considered a disability. These fixtures enhance hygiene and facility convenience by enabling one-handed operation for faucet control, soap dispensing, hand dryer activation, or towel dispensing.
ADA-compliant Grab Bars
Grab bars are one of the most vital components of an ADA-compliant restroom. They allow people to safely support their weight without using their lower body extremities. This feature is a requirement for anyone using a wheelchair because it enables them to get on and off the toilet easily.
A grab bar must be at least 42 inches on the side wall and 36 inches on the rear wall to be considered ADA-compliant. The grab bar must also provide at least ½ inch of clearance space in all directions and convenient proximity to the hand dryer and toilet paper dispenser. Lastly, ensure that any grab bars installed in your commercial restrooms are waterproof.
Get in Touch With B&D Today!
Dealing with any plumbing concerns that require a professional to step in? Struggling with an absolute plumbing emergency that can’t wait? Let B&D Plumbing know. B&D Plumbing Inc. services the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia. Get in touch with us by calling (301) 595-1141 or follow us on social media including Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. As a small, family-owned business, we understand how important your home is—and we offer exceptional service that matches!
