Making reasonable provisions for accessible toilets is not only a legal obligation, but also a moral one.
Everyone should be able to access clean, comfortable facilities, and be able to use them with as much independence, dignity, and privacy as possible.
According to government research, 46% of people with a registered disability rank mobility as their main impairment. This is closely followed by dexterity (at 23%) and poor vision (9%) – making navigating tight doorways, tricky locks, and awkward taps just the start of the problems faced by many people trying to safely use the toilet.
In the UK, rules around the requirements of disabled toilets are outlined in Approved Document M: Access to and use of buildings. There are a host of definite dos and don’ts – it’s worth reading our blog around laws on the provision of accessible toilets and common mistakes to avoid – but whilst it can feel daunting, it doesn’t need to be.
There are a number of quick wins that can transform your space into a more usable and accommodating environment – for everyone!
Want to know what they are? Read on to find out more.
7 ways to improve toilet accessibility
- Use more accessible toilet hardware
Aid accessibility by switching standard locks for disabled toilet door locks. Suitable for all types of doors – hinged or sliding – they are much simpler to negotiate for people with limited dexterity, making them easier for children and the elderly, too.
Combine with conveniently placed grab rails and you instantly create a more accessible toilet.
2. Increase cubicle size
When it comes to toilet cubicles, there are official minimum size requirements for everything from standard toilets to ambulant (designed for users with disabilities who don’t need room to accommodate a wheelchair) and wheelchair accessible cubicles. Check out our blog, How big should a toilet cubicle be?, for full details.
As a general rule of thumb, whilst these guidelines offer minimum size measurements, the bigger the better. The more room users have to manoeuvre, the more accessible the area. So, if you have space available – use it!
3. Use outward-opening doors
It might not sound like much, but fixing cubicle doors so that they open out rather than inward makes them accessible to a much wider range of people. This also helps to avoid an awkward – and unpleasant – squeeze against the toilet.
4. Higher toilets
When fitting toilets, raise the pan a little higher off the ground. This makes reaching the seat easier for everyone, but most importantly, for those with impaired mobility.
One issue to be aware of here, however, is that whilst this improves access for the vast majority of adult users, it can make things tricky for children. So, if you don’t have room to accommodate accessible toilets of multiple heights, and your setting is frequented by youngsters, be sure to provide a step. This can be tucked to one side when not required but will afford children independence when using the toilet.
5. Automatic tap and soap dispensers
Sensor taps and soaps are a more accessible choice if you’re looking to enhance the usability of your washroom. Not just this, though – with automatic dispensing, you also avoid waste and minimise the risk of flooding.
6. Use colourful cubicles
Contrasting colours – particularly between walls and floors – not only lift and brighten your toilet cubicles, but they can also help users with limited vision to define areas. It’s also advisable to avoid shiny surfaces, as these can cause glare, especially when wet.
7. Clear signage
Don’t make things harder than they need to be. Use clear signage to indicate both where your toilets are located and who they are suitable for.
8. An alarm system
Fitting a simple pull cord alarm to call for assistance in the event of an emergency can encourage independence and confidence in using your toilets. These days, there are numerous options on the market, including wireless alarms – making installation quick and easy.
Make changes today with MP Fittings
At MP Fittings, we believe everyone should have access to clean and comfortable toilets, which is why we offer a great range of accessible toilet hardware at great prices. Along with a vast choice of materials to build stylish cubicles and create a more accessible bathroom space.
Shop hardware and cubicles now, or if you have any questions around how to improve your toilet and provide a more accessible space, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.