Hand shower location

[Sifu]

In a standard roll-in shower, in an R1 accessible sleeping unit, the controls are required to be within reach of the user when seated on the seat. Makes sense. But I don't see any requirement that the hand shower must be within reach of the user. I don't think I missed anything but the logic isn't consistent. Is it assumed that they could still shower with it as a fixed head, even if they can't grab the hand-held? Or that they could grab it before transfer to the seat? Or did I miss it?

 

[e hilton]

Doesn’t make sense. What’s the point of a hand shower that’s not reachable.

Sidebar: i am amused and frustrated when we travel, seems that most of the shower heads in the hotels are so high they can’t be reached for re-aiming.

 

[Mr. Inspector]

Code does not say the hand shower needs to be reachable from the seat but if it complies to code it will be. It must be between 16" and 27" from the wall behind the seat for roll in showers. Transfer type showers are only 36" wide so all the walls would be reachable from a seat.

 

[Sifu]

Code does not say the hand shower needs to be reachable from the seat but if it complies to code it will be. It must be between 16" and 27" from the wall behind the seat for roll in showers. Transfer type showers are only 36" wide so all the walls would be reachable from a seat.

So I missed it. I stopped reading at "controls" and totally read over the "and hand shower" part of 608.4.2. Much appreciated.

 

[Jean Tessmer-HI]

It is difficult sometimes to visualize what the codes are saying when it comes to functional usability of elements and fixtures for individuals with disabilities. Furthermore the law does not limit the type of disability so sticking to what the law shows you from their website will at least help limit what you are required to do. For hand held showers (or bath rooms) I recommend you go to this website page from the US Access Board - they write the ADA standards for the DOJ. https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-6-bathing-rooms/

 

[Jean Tessmer-HI]

By the way do not use square shaped grab bars or hand rails. No safety studies were conducted on their use. The round hand rails or grab bars have had safety performance test which show that more of the surface of the hand comes into contact with the surface of the round grab bar or railing.

 

[Sifu]

Looks like the ANSI standard differs from the ADA, and may be why the DP got it wrong.

 

[Jean Tessmer-HI]

This is just a fine point. Note that the illustration from the US Access Board states "They Must Be Located....Within Accessible Reach Range". They are making you pick from the "any of the three walls". ANSI is the clearest and the safest choice because the ANSI tells you the only choice for a wide roll in shower is put it on the back wall as shown with the fold up or permanent bench seat. Otherwise you need to make sure you include with the installation how you justified end wall locations will make the controls at the opposite end of the stall "within accessible reach range". I think ANSI makes it simpler aslo ANSI started all of this in 1961.

 

[Sifu]

This is just a fine point. Note that the illustration from the US Access Board states "They Must Be Located....Within Accessible Reach Range". They are making you pick from the "any of the three walls". ANSI is the clearest and the safest choice because the ANSI tells you the only choice for a wide roll in shower is put it on the back wall as shown with the fold up or permanent bench seat. Otherwise you need to make sure you include with the installation how you justified end wall locations will make the controls at the opposite end of the stall "within accessible reach range". I think ANSI makes it simpler aslo ANSI started all of this in 1961.

Agree. Gotta keep it simple. Especially for me.

 

[ADAguy]

ANSI is only a "standard, not a code or regulation. ADASAD is a minimum unless exceeded by a code requiring greater access.
ANSI has never been approved by DOJ as an equal.

 

[Sifu]

ANSI standards are the only mechanism I as a building official can enforce in my AHJ.

 

[Paul Sweet]

If you meet ANSI you will meet the design requirements of ADASAD.

The 2 were developed together in 2004. Since then ANSI has added a few enhancements (such as vertical grab bar & larger toilet stall).

From what I understand the feds didn't approve ANSI as an equal because ADASAD includes a few operational items that don't apply to building design and construction, so they aren't in ANSI. These items are contained in Appendix E of the IBC, which some jurisdictions have adopted but many haven't.