Unisex accessible corner WC layout

‘Unisex’ in recognition of the fact that disabled people using it may well be assisted by a spouse, partner or carer of the opposite sex, and ‘corner’ referring to the position of the WC within the compartment, this is the standard layout recommended in BS 8300:2001 Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people and described in the Approved Document M. The layout and dimensions are based on the needs of wheelchair users, but the compartment is equipped so that it is also suitable for use by ambulant disabled people.

The corner layout can accommodate a variety of methods of transfer (but not all) and allows most users to wash and dry their hands while seated on the WC before transferring back to their wheelchair – thereby avoiding the possibility of soiling clothes or the wheelchair.

• Overall dimensions: 2200mm min long by 1500mm min wide. This allows enough space for most wheelchair users plus an assistant, if required.
• Clear usable space: the minimum space inside the compartment, clear of fittings and doorswing, needs to be 700mm by 1100mm.
• The dimensions relating WC pan to basin and associated fittings and equipment, and to wheelchair manoeuvring space, are critical for independent use.
• This non-symmetrical layout favours access from one side only, which may be a problem for some users. Where more than one accessible WC compartment is provided, the layout should be reversed (handed).
• Doors should open outwards wherever possible, and be fitted with a horizontal closing bar on the inside face.
• Use plastic-coated handrails and grabrails, and drop-down rails that are easy to operate.
• The horizontal rail/backrest to the rear of the WC should be padded if there is no WC lid to rest against. A backrest may not be required if the cistern is low-level.
• The flush should be easy to operate and mounted on the transfer side of the cistern, within easy reach. A lever-type flush is recommended.
• Emergency alarm systems should be provided. These should be audible as well as visual. The call signal outside the compartment should be located so that it can be easily seen and heard by those able to give assistance. Pull cords should extend to floor level and be easy to grip.
• Coat hooks and mirrors should be fixed at heights usable by standing and seated users. A recommended height for a coat hook is 1200mm.
• Fittings such as radiators, vending machines, sanitary disposal units and wastepaper bins should be recessed where possible so as not to obstruct transfer space or manoeuvrability.
• Sink plumbing returned to the wall (rather than run to the floor) is preferred as this leaves more clear space below the hand washbasin.
• The boxing in of pipes should be carefully considered so as not to compromise manoeuvring space.