Since February 11, 2005, the law advocating for equal rights and opportunities requires that all public establishments (ERP) be accessible to all types of disabilities. This law aims to promote the participation and citizenship of people with disabilities. Therefore, these establishments must have restrooms that are adapted for individuals with disabilities. Certain standards have been established, and all public establishments must comply with them. In this article, we present the standards for restrooms for people with disabilities.
High toilets for people with disabilities
It is important to find toilets that are at the right height for individuals with disabilities. This is why they need high toilets that will facilitate transfers between their wheelchair and the toilet seat. Indeed, standard public toilets are designed to be a bit lower, which requires significant effort during transfers from the toilet to the wheelchair.
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The height of toilets for people with disabilities should measure 45 cm. This height can sometimes reach 50 cm. Additionally, the distance between the center of the bowl and the grab bar should measure 40 to 45 cm. The grab bar must also be securely fixed at a maximum height of 80 cm and have a 180o bend.
Moreover, it is important that the features of the toilets facilitate their use by individuals with disabilities. For example, a push-button flush system should be prioritized.
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Better accessibility
First of all, it should be noted that the toilets for people with disabilities must be different from those for others. A sign indicating that these toilets are designed for individuals with disabilities is necessary. Next, the space in the restroom must be large enough to allow the wheelchair to enter easily. Additionally, there should be enough freedom of movement so that the individual can make a turn in the wheelchair. To facilitate access to the restroom, a door that opens inward should be installed. This makes access to the disabled restroom easier.
What about the handwashing station and sink?
It is important to know that it is very difficult to wash hands in a wheelchair when the handwashing station is too high. Additionally, care should be taken to ensure that it does not splash water on the user. Therefore, sinks and handwashing stations should be at a height of 70 cm. Furthermore, it will be very useful for the latter to have a depth of at least 30 cm and a width of 60 cm.
In this case, choosing PCR sinks will be a great advantage. These sinks, in addition to being adapted for people with disabilities, allow for easy passage of feet and knees underneath. They are also suitable for equipment that facilitates use. When selecting equipment, consider choosing based on the seated position required for handwashing.
What are the other criteria to be respected?
It should be noted that all public establishments are required to comply with PMR standards. Indeed, public establishments must be accessible to all individuals, whether they have disabilities or not. Therefore, access must be established to allow all types of disabilities easy access to the building.
For individuals with disabilities, it is important to have a ramp or an elevator to facilitate access to the upper levels of the building. For visually impaired individuals, for example, signage should be implemented to address their impairment. An orientation assistance strip should also be used. Additionally, it is necessary to use powerful lighting to ensure that all individuals can see properly.
In conclusion, it should be noted that restrooms for individuals with disabilities must be at the correct height. This is to facilitate transfers between the wheelchair and the toilet seat. Additionally, grab bars and an angled mirror are necessary. Finally, the handwashing station and sink must be at the correct height to facilitate hand cleaning.