Building an accessible toilet is not only important if you own public property but also mandatory by law. However, designing a toilet for the disabled or disabled is quite different from the conventional one. So, what tips and regulations an architect needs to know before designing a handicap bathroom Malaysia?
To make you more versed with such requirements, we’ll present 5 tips to help you build an accessible toilet.
5 essential tips to consider while designing an accessible toilet
Installing a handicap bathroom is an excellent idea as it can help the disabled lead a more independent life. However, some key aspects contribute to building such toilets. Listed below are the 5 essential tips you must know when building an accessible toilet:
It is important to build the entrance of the bathroom in such a way that the wheelchair could easily get through it. Usually, the width of a wheelchair is around 24-27" (approximately 600- 690 mm). To accommodate a wheelchair, the width of the bathroom should be around 32-36" (approximately 815-915 mm). The extra space will allow making the entry of the wheelchair easy even if there's a need to make a turn. Moreover, the base of the door should be flat to avoid any extra bumps along the way.
Good lighting in the bathroom contributes a lot to the safety of the disabled. Make sure to keep the bathroom well-lit with no obstruction or shadow. Also, the light switches should be placed low, so the person can easily access them. If possible, motion detectors lights can be put on to help an individual who may have problems accessing the switches. Moreover, you can add some dimmers to provide softness and brightness according to users' needs.
To make the wheelchair easily roll to the sink, choose an utterly slanted design that has no obstruction underneath the sink. A pedestal sink can be a good alternative. For reaching the tap or water easily, it is important to install a long, single handle around the sink faucet. Low cabinets should be there for easy access for the individual.
It is advised to allow some space on one side of the toilet so that a wheelchair can be moved easily. Such space will also help individuals who need assistance with transfers. Grab bar Malaysia near the toilet can be very beneficial. Moreover, ensure there's ample space near the flush so the individual can easily access it.
Showers are more safe and easy for disabled individuals. The entry to the shower area should ideally be flat, and the flooring should be slip-proof. Ensure the shower area is big enough to accommodate the wheelchair and the assistant helping with the chores. Moreover, you can put a fold-down stool to avoid the entry of the wheelchair into the shower area.
Conclusion
So, after you have read all the tips and regulations, the next step is to visit a contractor who can easily design handicap bathroom Malaysia. After that, you may visit the sanitary shops to get all the equipment required. Moreover, building handicapped bathrooms can make the individual’s life much easier and safe.
