1109 - Mercantile Bathing Facility

[Francis Vineyard]

2006 IBC, M use group, one bathroom with shower, does the shower need to be accessible?

 

[mark handler]

2006 IBC, M use group, one bathroom with shower, does the shower need to be accessible?

Per ADA, Yes, if it is to be used by customers or employees.

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Thanks, it reads plainly that it's required but what is happening is an all or nothing situation.

Merchants are inclined not to install the bathing facility because of the additional expense to make it accessible. I'm questioning this because it’s not a required fixture.

 

[mark handler]

Just because it’s not a required fixture, does not mean anything.

ADA, a civil rights law, says equal access; If provided for some, Shall be accessible, to all.

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Thanks, I appreciate the re-enforcement.

 

[peach]

I agree with Mark.

Why do you have a shower in an M occupancy? (just curious)

 

[Francis Vineyard]

Peach I don’t know why they would have a shower, but I can speculate from my observations. The store does sales and service for wood burning appliances; they might get sooty during the day.

Another belongs to an architect also makes his own furniture in his spare time.

I know some places encourage employees to ride bicycles, walk or run to work and during lunch provide showers.

 

[Mr. Inspector]

Here in PA inspectors don't enforce ADA because it is not a code. But we have ANSI A117.7 and that makes the shower accessible unless it is for a privet office.

 

[Gene Boecker]

Rick, good catch.

Per IBC it's practically the same text in 1109.2 of the 2009 edition - one of each type SHALL be accessible.