4.0 Washrooms
This section looks at the accessibility of both multi-stall and single-stall washrooms. Multi-stall washrooms have multiple stalls for many people to use at once, while single-stall washrooms are designed for one person at a time.
It breaks down key features like doors, sinks, stalls, and grab bars, explaining what
they need and why these features matter for safe and easy use by everyone.
| Feature | What It Needs | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Signage |
Clear signs that point the way to the washrooms.
|
Easy-to-see signs help everyone find the washrooms quickly, especially people who are new to the venue. Using symbols and Braille on signs makes them even more helpful.
|
| Doors |
Doors should open easily with minimal force (no more than 5 pounds of pressure) and be at least 34 inches wide.
|
This makes sure that people with mobility devices, like wheelchairs, can enter easily.
|
|
Accessible Stall
|
Multi-stall washrooms should have at least one stall that's bigger – at least 59 inches wide and 59 inches deep.
|
A larger stall gives people using wheelchairs or other mobility devices enough space to move around comfortably.
|
| Stall Door |
The stall door should be at least 34 inches wide and swing outward.
|
An outward-swinging door makes it easier to get in and out of the stall, especially if you're using a wheelchair.
|
| Grab Bars |
Grab bars should be installed on the side and back walls of accessible stalls. They should be 29-33 inches high and securely mounted to the wall.
|
Grab bars help people with balance or mobility challenges to transfer to the toilet, or to sit down and stand up safely. They need to be strong and mounted to the wall, not the stall divider!
|
| Toilet |
The toilet should be 17-19 inches high and have a backrest.
|
A comfortable height and backrest make it easier for everyone to use the toilet, especially those with mobility challenges.
|
|
Toilet Accessories
|
Toilet paper, flush handle, and sanitary disposal bin should be easy to reach from a sitting position.
|
For example, some people with spinal cord injuries have trouble bending down or reaching far away. Toilet paper should be easy to pull out.
|
| Sink |
The sink should be no higher than 34 inches from the floor and have at least 27 inches of knee clearance underneath.
|
This allows people in wheelchairs to roll under the sink easily.
|
| Faucets |
Faucets should be easy to turn on with one hand or a closed fist.
|
Lever-style or automatic faucets are the easiest to use, especially for people with limited hand strength or dexterity.
|
| Mirror |
The mirror should be low enough for both seated and standing users to see themselves. The bottom edge should be no higher than 39 inches.
|
Everyone should be able to do a fit check. If the mirror is above the sink, it can be mounted in a way that it is tilted slightly downwards for people in sitting positions to see themselves.
|
|
Soap and Towel Dispensers
|
Dispensers should be easy to reach for everyone.
|
Mount soap and paper towel dispensers no higher than 47 inches for easy access.
|
|
Clear Floor Space
|
Keep at least 59 inches by 59 inches of open floor space around toilets and sinks.
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This makes sure that people using wheelchairs or walkers have enough space to maneuver in both single and multi-stall washrooms.
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