CONTROLS AND OPERATING MECHANISMS.
Faucets, toilets, and washroom accessories to be used by physically disabled people must
meet ADAAG specifications for controls and operating mechanisms (push buttons, valves,
knobs, and levers): operable with one hand, without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting
of the wrist, and with a force that does not exceed 5 lbf (22.2 N). Self-closing faucet
valves are acceptable if they remain open at least 10 seconds. It is recommended that
controls and operating mechanisms project from surrounding material and be a contrasting
color so visually impaired people can find them easily. Controls should also be centered
over sufficient clear floor space to ensure both left- and right-hand approaches; or two
of the same accessory should be provided, one for each type of approach. ACCESSORIES
PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SERVICE AMENITIES TO WASHROOM INSTALLATIONS.
Washroom accessories must not project more than 4" (102mm) into a clear access aisle
if their leading edge is between 27" and 80" (686–2032mm) above the finish
floor; if their leading edge is at or below 27" (686mm), then they may project any
amount as long as the required minimum width of an adjacent clear access aisle is
maintained. This standard is specifically designed to ensure detection by visually
impaired people. It is recommended that all floor-standing and surface-mounted units
projecting more than 4" (102mm) be located in corners, alcoves, or between other
structural elements so as not to be a hazard to visually impaired people or interfere with
access aisles or wheelchair turning areas. Fully recessed accessories are the preferred
choice throughout universally designed washrooms.
Mirrors must be installed
with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface no higher than 40" (1016mm) above the
finish floor (Fig. 4a). A single full-length mirror is recommended in each washroom
because it can be used by everyone, including children.
Soap dispensers installed
over lavatories must be mounted so their push buttons are no higher than 44" (1118mm)
above the finish floor. Lavatory-mounted soap dispensers and lever-handle faucets should
be spaced far enough apart to avoid interference with their operations. It is recommended
that soap dispensers that meet ADAAG specifications for controls and operating mechanisms
be used throughout washrooms to provide universal usability.
Paper towel dispensers and waste
receptacles or warm-air hand dryers should be conveniently located in an area that is
accessible to wheelchairs, preferably adjacent to a barrier-free lavatory. It is
recommended that one hand dryer be mounted with sufficient clear floor space to allow both
left- and right-hand wheelchair approaches; or provide two dryers, one for each type of
approach. When a single hand dryer is installed in a washroom, it is recommended that the
start button be located 38" to 40" (965–1016mm) above the finish floor;
when two or more dryers are installed, mount one dryer so its button is 38" to
40" (965–1016mm) above the finish floor; locate others 41" to 48"
(1041–1219mm).
Sanitary napkin/tampon vendors
are recommended in all public women’s washrooms to provide essential hygienic
products. It is recommended that all units meet ADAAG specifications for operating
mechanisms and accessible mounting heights to provide universal usability.
Condom vendors in public
washrooms provide discreet purchase of condoms to help prevent the spread of sexually
transmitted diseases. They are recommended in college dormitories, social and sports
clubs, health treatment facilities, government installations, hotels, office buildings,
and restaurants. It is recommended that all units meet ADAAG specifications for operating
mechanisms and accessible mounting heights to provide universal usability.
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