Ideal Dimensions of a Disabled Toilet Room

A common question in the industry is what the ideal size of a disabled toilet room should be. The following article sets out to explore these dimensions.

The provision of a wheelchair-accessible unisex toilet is required in all venues. Document M (Doc M) of the UK building regulations states that wheelchair users should be able to comfortably approach, transfer to and use the sanitary facilities provided.

The recommended dimensions of a disabled toilet room are; at least 2200mm deep x 1500 wide.

Rooms that are larger than this will provide a larger turning circle for use by wheelchair users, which will provide additional comfort and ease.

The minimum dimensions for a disabled toilet room are to exclude any items that are not required or mandated as part of a document M compliant disabled toilet room. This includes radiators (heat emitters) and baby changing tables which requires the measurements to be taken excluding these items.

Other design considerations for a disabled toilet room include:

  • Doors should be outward opening and fitted with a horizontal closing bar fixed to the inside face.
  • An emergency assistance alarm system should be provided.
  • Mixer taps with an easy to grip lever should be installed to assist users with limited dexterity.
  • Colour contrasting grab rails, preferably in blue, should be installed against white background walls for the visually impaired.
  • Toilet pans and hand wash basins specially designed for use in a disabled toilet room should be installed.
  • The correct size, number of and positioning of grab rails should be installed within the room.
  • Toilet flush handles should be of a paddle type design to assist users with limited dexterity.

Further information on the size and layout requirements of a disabled toilet room can be found at HM Government’s Document M of the building regulations.

As always, our team are at the end of the telephone for all your queries. We have a wealth of knowledge that we’re always happy to share with you.

So if you need some guidance, give us a call on 01202 650901.