Section 1127A Common Use Facilities

Note: For public use facilities, see Chapter 11B of this code.

When provided, common use areas and facilities in covered multifamily housing developments shall be accessible to persons with disabilities. Common use facilities include, but are not limited to, lobbies, toilet and bathing facilities, laundry facilities, community rooms, clubhouses, health and fitness facilities, game rooms and portions of common use tenant storage. All entrances, doors, fixtures and controls shall be on an accessible route. Facilities and fixtures required to be accessible shall comply with the following provisions:

1. Doors. Doors to accessible bathrooms shall comply with Section 1126A. Doors shall not swing into the floor space required for any fixture.
2. Clear floor space. All fixtures and controls shall be on an accessible route. Clear floor spaces at fixtures and controls, the accessible route and the turning space may overlap. This clear space shall comply with Sections 1138A.1.4 and 1138A.3.
3. Water closets. Where a toilet stall is provided, it shall comply with Section 1127A.2.1 or 1127A.2.2, and its water closet shall comply with Section 1127A.2.3.
4. Lavatory and mirrors. Where a lavatory and/or mirror is provided, it shall comply with Sections 1127A.3 and/or 1127A.8.3.
5. Controls and dispensers. Where controls, dispensers, receptacles or other types of equipment are provided, at least one of each shall be on an accessible route and shall comply with Sections 1127A.8 and 1138A.3.
6. Bathing and shower facilities. Where bathtubs or showers are provided, at least one fixture of each type provided shall be accessible per room. For bathtubs, see Section 1127A.5.2. For shower compartments, see Section 1127A.5.3.
7. Toilet facilities. Toilet facilities shall comply with Section 1127A.2.
8. Laundry facilities. Laundry facilities shall comply with Section 1127A.10.
9. Storage facilities. Storage facilities shall comply with Section 1127A.11.
10. Fixed or built-in seating, tables and counters. Fixed or built-in seating, tables and counters shall comply with Section 1127A.12.

When common use toilet facilities are provided for residents or guests, at least one percent of the total number of fixtures but not less than one of each type shall comply with this section.

Multiple-accommodation toilet facilities shall have the following:

Note: (See Figures 11A-9A and 11A-9B.)

1. Wheelchair turning space. Turning space of sufficient size to inscribe a circle with a diameter not less than 60 inches (1524 mm) or a T-shaped space shall be provided within the toilet facility. The wheelchair turning space shall comply with Section 1138A.1.3. Other than the door to the accessible water closet compartment, a door, in any position, may encroach into this space by not more than 12 inches (305 mm).
2. Clear space at fixtures. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space required for any fixture. Required clear floor space, clearance at fixtures, and turning space shall be permitted to overlap.

3. Accessible water closet compartment. Accessible water closet compartments shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) wide minimum measured perpendicular to the side wall, 56 inches (1422 mm) deep minimum for wall hung water closets and 59 inches (1499 mm) deep minimum for floor mounted water closets measured perpendicular to the rear wall. (See Figure 11A-9A(c).)

   Water closet fixtures located in accessible water closet compartments shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum to 18 inches (457 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition.

   In ambulatory accessible toilet compartments specified in Item 6 of this section, the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. (See Figure 11A-9A (d).)

   Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches (1422 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures, and the turning space. No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

   A minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) deep and 60 inches (1524 mm) wide clear maneuvering space shall be provided in front of the water closet if the compartment has an end-opening door (facing the water closet). A minimum 60 inches (1524 mm) deep and 60 inches (1524 mm) wide clear maneuvering space shall be provided in a compartment with the door located at the side. (See Figure 11A-9A.)

4. Grab bars. Grab bars shall be provided on the side wall closest to the water closet and on the rear wall. Grab bars shall comply with this section and Section 1127A.4.

   The side wall grab bar shall be 42 inches (1067 mm) long minimum, located 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the rear wall and extend 54 inches (1372 mm) minimum from the rear wall. The front end of the side grab bar shall be positioned 24 inches (610 mm) minimum in front of the water closet.

   The rear wall grab bar shall be 36 inches (914 mm) long minimum and extend from the centerline of the water closet 12 inches (305 mm) minimum on one side and 24 inches (610 mm) minimum on the other side.

   Exceptions:

   1. The rear grab bar shall be permitted to be 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum, centered on the water closet, when wall space does not permit a length of 36 inches (914 mm) minimum due to the location of a recessed fixture adjacent to the water closet.
   2. When the enforcing agency requires flush controls for flush valves to be located in a position that conflicts with the location of the rear grab bar, then the rear grab bar shall be permitted to be split or shifted to the open side of the toilet area.

5. Compartment doors. Compartment doors shall comply with Section 1126A and the following:

   1. 5.1. The water closet compartment shall be equipped with a door that has an automatic-closing device, and shall have a clear, unobstructed opening width of 32 inches (813 mm) when located at the end and 34 inches (864 mm) when located at the side with the door positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from its closed position.
   2. 5.2. When standard compartment doors are used, with a minimum 9-inch (228.6 mm) clearance for footrests underneath and a self-closing device, clearance at the strike edge as specified in Section 1126A.3.2 is not required.
   3. 5.3. The inside and outside of the compartment door shall be equipped with a loop or U-shaped handle immediately below the latch. The latch shall be flip-over style, sliding or other hardware not requiring the user to grasp or twist.
   4. 5.4. Except for door-opening widths and door swings, a clear, unobstructed access of not less than 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be provided to water closet compartments designed for use by persons with disabilities, and the space immediately in front of a water closet compartment shall not be less than 48 inches (1219 mm) as measured at right angles to compartment door in its closed position.
   5. 5.5. Doors shall be located in the front or in the side wall or partition farthest from the water closet. Where located in the front partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (102 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition. Where located in the side wall or partition, the door opening shall be 4 inches (102 mm) maximum from the front wall or partition.

6. Ambulatory accessible compartments. When six or more toilet compartments are provided within a multiple-accommodation toilet room, or when the combination of urinals and water closets totals six or more fixtures, at least one compartment shall comply with Section 1127A.2.1, Items 2 and 3. At least one additional ambulatory compartment shall have a depth of 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum, and a width of 35 inches (890 mm) minimum and 37 inches (940 mm) maximum.

   The ambulatory accessible compartment shall have a self-closing door, which shall not swing into the minimum required compartment area. Grab bars, complying with Sections 1127A.4.2, 1127A.4.3, 1127A.4.4 and 1127A.4.5, shall be installed on each compartment side wall. (See Figure 11A-9A(d).)

Single-accommodation toilet facilities shall comply with the following:

Note: See Figures 11A-9A and 11A-9B.

1. Wheelchair clearance. There shall be sufficient space in the toilet room for a wheelchair measuring 30 inches (762 mm) wide by 48 inches (1219 mm) long to enter the room and permit the door to close. There shall be in the room a clear turning space of at least 60 inches (1524 mm) in diameter or a T-shaped space complying with Section 1138A.1.3.

   Required clear floor space, clearance at fixtures, and turning space shall be permitted to overlap.

2. Encroachment of doors. Doors shall not encroach into the turning space specified in Item 1 of this section by more than 12 inches (305 mm).

3. Accessible water closet. A water closet fixture located in a single-accommodation toilet facility shall be positioned with a wall or partition to the rear and to one side. The centerline of the water closet shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum to 18 inches (457 mm) maximum from the side wall or partition.

   Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56 inches (1422 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures, and the turning space. No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

   A minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) deep and 60 inches (1524 mm) wide clear maneuvering space shall be provided in front of the water closet.

4. Grab bars. Grab bars shall be provided on the side wall closest to the water closet and on the rear wall. Grab bars shall comply with this section and Section 1127A.4.

   The side wall grab bar shall be 42 inches (1067 mm) long minimum, located 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the rear wall and extend 54 inches (1372 mm) minimum from the rear wall. The front end of the side grab bar shall be positioned 24 inches (610 mm) minimum in front of the water closet.

   The rear wall grab bar shall be 36 inches (914 mm) long minimum and extend from the centerline of the water closet 12 inches (305 mm) minimum on one side and 24 inches (610 mm) minimum on the other side.

   Exceptions:

   1. The rear grab bar shall be permitted to be 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum, centered on the water closet, when wall space does not permit a length of 36 inches (914 mm) minimum due to the location of a recessed fixture adjacent to the water closet.
   2. When the enforcing agency requires flush controls for flush valves to be located in a position that conflicts with the location of the rear grab bar, then the rear grab bar shall be permitted to be split or shifted to the open side of the toilet area.
5. Accessible route. All doors, fixtures and controls shall be on an accessible route. The minimum clear width of an accessible route shall be 36 inches (914 mm) except at doors (See Section 1126A). If a person in a wheelchair must make a turn around an obstruction, the minimum clear width of the accessible route shall be as specified in Section 1138A.1.5.

Water closets required to be accessible shall comply with the following:

Note: See Figure 11A-9B.

1. Height. The height of accessible water closets shall be a minimum of 17 inches (432 mm) to a maximum of 19 inches (483 mm) measured to the top of a maximum 2-inch-high (50.8 mm) toilet seat.
2. Controls. Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic. Hand operated controls shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting. Controls for the flush valves shall be mounted on the open side of the water closet no more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N).
3. Toilet seats. Seats shall not be sprung to return to a lifted position.

When urinals are provided, at least one shall comply with the following:

1. Height and wall projection. Urinals shall be floor mounted (stall type) or wall hung. The rim of the wall hung urinals shall be 17 inches (432 mm) maximum above the finish floor. Urinals (floor mounted and wall hung) shall be13¹/₂ inches (343 mm) deep minimum measured from the outer face of the rim to the back of the fixture.
2. Flush controls. Flush controls shall be hand operated or automatic. Hand operated controls shall be operable with one hand, shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist and shall be mounted no more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N). Electronic automatic flushing controls are preferable.
3. Clear floor space. A clear floor space 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) shall be provided in front of the urinal to allow forward approach. The clear floor space shall comply with Section 1138A.1.4.

When common use lavatories are provided for residents or guests, at least one, and not less than 1 percent of all lavatories, shall comply with the following:

1. Location. Lavatories shall be installed with the centerline of the fixture a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) horizontally from an adjoining wall, partition or fixture. The top of the fixture rim shall be a maximum of 34 inches (864 mm) above the finished floor.
2. Floor space. A clear floor space at least 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) shall be provided in front of accessible lavatories to allow forward approach. Such clear floor space shall adjoin or overlap an accessible route or another clear floor space.
3. Knee and toe space. A clear and obstructed knee and toe space, complying with Section 1138A.2, shall be provided underneath the lavatory. The knee and toe space shall be centered on the fixture. The clear floor space required by Item 2 shall not extend into the knee and toe space more than 19 inches (483 mm). (See Figure 11A-9D.)
4. Finished floor. The finished floor beneath the lavatory shall be extended to the wall.
5. Plumbing protection. Water supply and drain pipes under lavatories shall be insulated or otherwise covered to protect against contact. There shall be no sharp or abrasive surfaces under lavatories.
6. Lavatory faucet controls. Faucet controls and operation mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2N). Lever operated, push type and electronically controlled mechanisms are examples of acceptable designs. Hand operated metering faucets are allowed if the faucet remains open for at least 10 seconds.

Grab bars, tub and shower seats, fasteners and mounting devices required by this chapter shall comply with this section.

Grab bars shall be installed in a horizontal position, 33 inches (838 mm) minimum and 36 inches (914 mm) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the gripping surface.

Exception: The height of the lower grab bar on the back wall of a bathtub shall comply with Section 1127A.5.2.

The diameter or width of the gripping surfaces of a grab bar shall comply with the following:

Note: See Figure 11A-9C.

1. Circular cross section. Grab bars with circular cross section shall have an outside diameter of 1¹/₄ inches (32 mm) minimum and 2 inches (51 mm) maximum.
2. Noncircular cross section. Grab bars with noncircular cross section shall have a cross-section dimension of 2 inches (51 mm) maximum. The perimeter dimension of grab bars with non-circular cross section shall be 4 inches (102 mm) minimum and 4.8 inches (122 mm) maximum.
3. Alternate configuration. L-shaped or U-shaped grab bars shall be permitted.

The structural strength of grab bars, tub and shower seats, fasteners and mounting devices shall meet the following specifications:

1. Bending stress in a grab bar or seat induced by the maximum bending moment from the application of a 250-pound (1112 N) point load shall be less than the allowable stress for the material of the grab bar or seat.
2. Shear stress induced in a grab bar or seat by the application of a 250-pound (1112 N) point load shall be less than the allowable shear stress for the material of the grab bar or seat, and if its mounting bracket or other support is considered to be fully restrained, then direct and torsional shear stresses shall not exceed the allowable shear stress.
3. Shear force induced in a fastener or mounting device from the application of a 250-pound (1112 N) point load shall be less than the allowable lateral load of either the fastener or mounting device or the supporting structure, whichever is the smaller allowable load.
4. Tensile force induced in a fastener by a direct tension force of a 250-pound (1112 N) point load, plus the maximum moment from the application of a 250-pound (1112 N) point load, shall be less than the allowable withdrawal load between the fastener and supporting structure.
5. Grab bars shall not rotate within their fittings.

A grab bar and any wall or other surface adjacent to it shall be free of any sharp or abrasive elements and shall have rounded edges.

When grab bars are mounted adjacent to a wall, the space between the wall and the grab bars shall be 1¹/₂ inches (38 mm). (See Figure 11A-9C.) The space between the grab bar and projecting objects below and at the ends shall be 1¹/₂ inches (38 mm) minimum. The space between the grab bar and projecting objects above shall be 12 inches (305 mm) minimum.

Exceptions:

1. The space between the grab bars and shower controls, shower fittings, and other grab bars above shall be permitted to be 1¹/₂ inches (38 mm) minimum.
2. For L-shaped or U-shaped grab bars the space between the walls and the grab bar shall be 1¹/₂ inches (38 mm) minimum for a distance of 6 inches (152 mm) on either side of the inside corner between two adjacent wall surfaces.

When common use bathing facilities are provided for residents or guests, including showers, bathtubs or lockers, at least one of each type of fixture in each facility, and not less than 1 percent of all fixtures, shall comply with this section.

Bathtubs required to be accessible shall comply with the following:

Clearance in front of bathtubs shall extend the length of the bathtub and shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) wide minimum for forward approach and 30 inches (762 mm) wide minimum for parallel approach. A lavatory complying with Section 1127A.3 shall be permitted at the control end of the clearance. When a permanent seat is provided at the head end of the bathtub, the clearance shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the wall at the head end of the bathtub. (See Figure 11A-9E.)

A removable in-tub seat or a permanent seat at the head end of the tub shall be provided. The structural strength of seats and their attachments shall comply with Section 1127A.4.4. Seats shall be mounted securely and shall not slip during use.

The top of bathtub seats shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum above the bathroom finish floor. The depth of a removable in-tub seat shall be 15 inches (381 mm) minimum and 16 inches (406 mm) maximum. Permanent seats at the head end of the bathtub shall be 15 inches (381 mm) deep minimum and shall extend from the back wall to or beyond the outer edge of the bathtub. (See Figure 11A-9E.)

Grab bars complying with Section 1127A.4 shall be provided in accordance with this section. (See Figure 11A-9F.) When separate grab bars are required on adjacent walls at a common mounting height, an L-shaped or U-shaped grab bar meeting the dimensional requirements of this section shall be permitted.

1. Bathtubs with permanent seats. Two horizontal grab bars shall be installed on the back wall. One shall be located 33 inches (838 mm) minimum and 36 inches (914 mm) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the gripping surface, and the other shall be located 8 inches (203 mm) minimum and 10 inches (254 mm) maximum above the rim of the bathtub. Each grab bar shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) long minimum, and shall be installed 15 inches (381 mm) maximum from the head end wall and 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the control end wall.

   A grab bar 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum shall be installed on the control end wall at the front edge of the bathtub.

2. Bathtubs with removable seats. Two horizontal grab bars shall be installed on the back wall. One shall be located 33 inches (838 mm) minimum and 36 inches (914 mm) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the gripping surface, and the other shall be located 8 inches (203 mm) minimum and 10 inches (254 mm) maximum above the rim of the bathtub. Each grab bar shall be 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum and shall be installed 24 inches (610 mm) maximum from the head end wall and 12 inches (305 mm) maximum from the control end wall.

   A grab bar 24 inches (610 mm) long minimum shall be installed on the control end wall at the front edge of the bathtub. A grab bar 12 inches (305 mm) long minimum shall be installed on the head end wall at the front edge of the bathtub.

Faucets and controls (other than drain stoppers) shall be located on an end wall between the bathtub rim and grab bar, and between the open side of the bathtub and the centerline of the width of the bathtub. (See Figure 11A-9F.)

Controls shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate controls shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N).

A shower spray unit with a hose at least 59 inches (1524 mm) long that can be used both as a fixed shower head and as a hand-held shower shall be provided.

The shower spray unit shall have an on/off control with a non-positive shut-off. If an adjustable-height shower head on a vertical bar is used, the bar shall be installed so as not to obstruct the use of the grab bars.

When provided, enclosures for bathtubs shall not obstruct controls, faucets, shower and spray units, or obstruct transfer from wheelchairs onto bathtub seats or into bathtubs. Enclosures on bathtubs shall not have tracks installed on the rim of the open face of the bathtub.

Shower compartments required to be accessible shall comply with this section. (See Figures 11A-9H, 11A-9I, 11A-9J and 11A-9K.)

1. Standard roll-in shower compartments. Standard roll-in shower compartments shall meet one of the following:

   1. 1.1 30 inches (762 mm) minimum in depth and 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum in width between wall surfaces measured at center points of opposing sides, with a full opening width on the long side.

      A clear floor space 30 inches (914 mm) minimum by 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum shall be provided adjacent to the open face of the shower compartment.

   2. 1.2. 42 inches (1067 mm) in width between wall surfaces, and 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum in depth with an entrance opening of 42 inches (1067 mm).
2. Alternate roll-in shower compartments. Alternate roll-in shower compartments shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum in depth and 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum in width between wall surfaces measured at center points of opposing sides. A 36-inch (914 mm) wide minimum entry shall be provided at one end of the long side of the compartment.

Thresholds in roll-in shower compartments shall be ¹/₂ inch (12.7 mm) maximum in height and shall be beveled with a slope no greater than one unit vertical in two units horizontal (50-percent slope). (See Figure 11A-1F.)

Exception: Changes in level not exceeding ¹/₄ inch (6.35 mm) shall be permitted to be vertical.

Enclosures, when provided for shower compartments, shall not obstruct controls, faucets, shower spray units, and transfer from wheelchairs onto shower seats.

Shower compartment floor surfaces shall be stable, firm and slip resistant. The maximum slope of the floor shall be ¹/₄ inch (6.35 mm) per foot (2.083 percent slope) in any direction. When drains are provided, grate openings shall be ¹/₄ inch (6.35 mm) maximum and located flush with the floor surface.

Controls, faucets and shower spray units in shower compartments shall be operable with one hand, and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate operable parts shall be 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum. All controls and faucets shall be of a single-lever design.

In standard roll-in shower compartments, operable parts of controls and faucets shall be installed on the back wall of the compartment adjacent to the seat wall, 19 inches (483 mm) minimum and 27 inches (686 mm) maximum from the seat wall.

Operable parts of controls and faucets shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the shower floor, with their centerline at 39 inches (991 mm) minimum and 41 inches (1041 mm) maximum above the shower floor.

Operable parts of the shower spray unit, including the handle, shall be installed on the back wall adjacent to the seat wall, 19 inches (483 mm) minimum and 27 inches (686 mm) maximum from the seat wall.

Operable parts of the shower spray unit, including the handle, shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the shower floor (measured to the top of the mounting bracket).

In alternate roll-in shower compartments, operable parts of controls and faucets shall be installed on the side wall of the compartment adjacent to the seat wall, 19 inches (483 mm) minimum and 27 inches (686 mm) maximum from the seat wall.

Operable parts of controls and faucets shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the shower floor, with their centerline at 39 inches (991 mm) minimum and 41 inches (1041 mm) maximum above the shower floor.

Operable parts of the shower spray unit, including the handle, shall be installed on the following locations:

1. On the side wall of the compartment adjacent to the seat wall, 17 inches (432 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum from the seat wall; or

2. On the back wall opposite the seat, 15 inches (381 mm) maximum, left or right, of the centerline of the seat.

   Operable parts of the shower spray unit, including the handle, shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the shower floor.

A flexible hand-held shower spray unit with a hose at least 59 inches (1524 mm) long that can be used both as a fixed shower head and as a hand-held shower shall be provided.

The shower spray unit shall have an on/off control with a non-positive shut-off. If an adjustable-height shower head on a vertical bar is used, the bar shall be installed so as not to obstruct the use of grab bars.

When accessible shower facilities are provided in areas subject to excessive vandalism, in lieu of providing the fixed flexible hose, two wall-mounted shower heads shall be installed. Each shower head shall be installed so that it can be operated independently of the other and shall have swivel angle adjustments, both vertically and horizontally. One shower head shall be located at a height of 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum above the floor.

A seat in a standard roll-in shower compartment shall be a folding type, installed on the side wall adjacent to the controls.

The seat shall extend from the back wall to a point within 3 inches (76 mm) of the compartment entry. A seat in an alternate roll-in type shower compartment shall be a folding type, installed on the front wall opposite the back wall, and shall extend from the adjacent side wall to a point within 3 inches (76 mm) of the compartment entry.

Shower compartment seats shall comply with Section 1127A.4.4 and shall be located within 27 inches (686 mm) of the shower controls. The top of the seat shall be 17 inches (432 mm) minimum and 19 inches (483 mm) maximum above the bathroom finish floor. When folded, the seat shall not extend more than 6 inches (152 mm) from the mounting wall.

The rear edge of a rectangular seat shall be 2¹/₂ inches (64 mm) maximum from the seat wall. The front edge of a rectangular seat shall be 15 inches (381 mm) minimum and 16 inches (406 mm) maximum from the seat wall. The side edge of the seat shall be 1¹/₂ inches (38 mm) maximum from the adjacent wall.

The rear edge of an L-shaped seat shall be 2 ¹/₂ inches (64 mm) maximum from the seat wall. The front edge of an L-shaped seat shall be 15 inches (381 mm) minimum and 16 inches (406 mm) maximum from the seat wall. The rear edge of the “L” portion of the seat shall be 1¹/₂ inches (38 mm) maximum from the wall. The front edge shall be 14 inches (356 mm) minimum and 15 inches (381 mm) maximum from the wall. The end of the “L” shall be 22 inches (559 mm) minimum and 23 inches (584 mm) maximum from the main seat wall.

Accessible shower compartments shall be provided with grab bars, installed in accordance with Section 1127A.5.3.8.1 or Section 1127A.5.3.8.2. Grab bars shall also comply with Section 1127A.4.

When multiple grab bars are used, required horizontal grab bars shall be installed at the same height above the finish floor. When separate grab bars are required on adjacent walls at a common mounting height, L-shaped or U-shaped grab bars meeting the dimensional requirements of Section 1127A.5.3.8.1 or Section 1127A.5.3.8.2 shall be permitted. (See Figure 11A-9H or Figure 11A-9I.)

Grab bars shall be installed on the back wall and on the side wall opposite the seat. Grab bars above the seat are not permitted. Grab bars shall be installed 6 inches (152 mm) maximum from adjacent walls.

Grab bars shall be installed on the back wall and the side wall farthest from the compartment entry. Grab bars above the seat are not permitted. Grab bars shall be installed 6 inches (152 mm) maximum from adjacent walls.

When a soap dish is provided, it shall be located on the control wall at a maximum height of 40 inches (1016 mm) above the shower floor, and within the reach limits from the seat.

When no separate shower compartments are provided, the shower for persons with disabilities shall be located in a corner with L-shaped grab bars extending along two adjacent walls with a folding seat adjacent to the shower controls. (See Figure 11A-9J.)

When two or more accessible showers are provided within the same functional area, there shall be at least one shower constructed opposite hand from the other or others (i.e., one left-hand control versus right-hand controls).

Where lockers are provided for residents or guests, at least one locker and not less than 1 percent of all lockers shall be accessible to persons with disabilities. An accessible route not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in clear width shall be provided to these lockers. See Section 1138A for required clear space, allowable reach ranges and requirements for control and operating mechanisms.

All accessible toilet and bathing facilities shall be identified by the “International Symbol of Accessibility.” Signs need not be provided for facilities within a dwelling unit or guestroom.

Doorways leading to sanitary facilities (toilet or bathing rooms) shall be identified by a geometric symbol in compliance with this section. Geometric symbols shall be centered horizontally on the door at a height of 58 inches (1473 mm) minimum and 60 inches (1524 mm) maximum above the finish floor measured to the center of the symbol. When a door is provided, the symbol shall be mounted within 1 inch (25 mm) of the vertical centerline of the door. Directional signs indicating the location of the nearest accessible toilet or bathing rooms shall be provided. Such directional signs shall comply with Section 1143.5 and shall include the International Symbol of Accessibility.

Edges of accessibility signage shall be rounded, chamfered or eased. Corners shall have a minimum radius of ¹/₈ inch (3.2 mm). See Section 1143A for additional signage requirements applicable to sanitary facilities.

Men’s sanitary facilities shall be identified by an equilateral triangle, 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) thick with edges 12 inches (305 mm) long and a vertex pointing upward. The triangle symbol shall contrast with the door, either light on a dark background or dark on a light background.

Women’s sanitary facilities shall be identified by a circle, ¹/₄ inch (6.4 mm) thick and 12 inches (305 mm) in diameter. The circle symbol shall contrast with the door, either light on a dark background or dark on a light background.

Unisex sanitary facilities shall be identified by a circle, ¹/₄ inch (6.4 mm) thick and 12 inches (305 mm) in diameter with a ¹/₄ inch (6.4 mm) thick triangle superimposed on the circle and within the 12-inch (305 mm) diameter. The triangle symbol shall contrast with the circle symbol, either light on a dark background or dark on a light background. The circle symbol shall contrast with the door, either light on a dark background or dark on a light background.

Where towel, sanitary napkins, waste receptacles and other similar dispensing and disposal fixtures are provided, at least one of each type shall be located with all operable parts, including coin slots, within 40 inches (1016 mm) from the finished floor. Controls and operating mechanisms shall comply with Section 1138A.4.

Toilet tissue dispensers shall be located on the wall or partition closest to the water closet, 7 inches (180 mm) minimum and 9 inches (230 mm) maximum in front of the water closet measured to the centerline of the dispenser. The outlet of the dispenser shall be below the grab bar, 19 inches (483 mm) minimum above the finish floor. The outlet of the dispenser shall not be located behind grab bars. Dispensers shall not be of a type that controls delivery or that does not allow continuous paper flow. (See Figure 11A-9B.)

Where mirrors are provided, at least one shall be accessible. Mirrors located above lavatories or countertops shall be installed with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface 40 inches (1016 mm) maximum above the finish floor. Mirrors not located above lavatories or countertops shall be installed with the bottom edge of the reflecting surface 35 inches (889 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

Space allowances and reach ranges in common use areas shall comply with Section 1138A.

Where common use laundry rooms are provided, at least one of each type of appliance provided in each laundry area shall be accessible, shall be on an accessible route and shall comply with this section. Such appliances include clothes washing machines, dryers, soap dispensers and any related features such as wash sinks, tables and storage areas.

Where laundry rooms are provided on floors of an elevator building, each laundry room shall be accessible. Where there is one laundry room on a ground floor in each building, each laundry room shall be accessible. Where there is a laundry room on the ground floor of a building and another located in the basement, it is acceptable to have only the ground floor laundry room accessible.

There shall be a minimum clear space 30 inches perpendicular by 48 inches parallel (762 mm by 1219 mm) in front of clothes washers and dryers required to be accessible. There shall be a minimum clear space 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) provided for at least one of each type of fixture or appliance provided in the laundry room (e.g., soap dispensers, wash sinks, tables, storage areas).

Clothes washers and dryers including stacked clothes washers and dryers required to be accessible shall have controls and operating mechanisims (including doors, coin slots, lint screens, detergent and bleach compartments) within the reach range of a seated user. Controls and operating mechanisms shall be located no higher than 48 inches (1219 mm), and no lower than 15 inches (381 mm), above the finished floor measured to the center of the grip. If the reach is over an obstruction (for example, washer or dryer), operating mechanisms shall be located within the reach ranges specified in Section 1138A.3. Controls and operating mechanisms that do not satisfy these specifications are acceptable, provided that comparable mechanisms, controls or outlets that perform the same functions are provided within the same area and are accessible.

Controls and operating mechanisms shall be operable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate controls and operating mechanisms shall be no greater than 5 pounds (22.2 N).

Washing machines and clothes dryers in accessible common use laundry rooms shall be front loading.

The bottom of the opening to the laundry compartment shall be located 15 inches (381 mm) minimum and 36 inches (914 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

If fixed storage facilities such as cabinets, shelves, closets or drawers are provided where access is required by Sections 1.8.2.1.2 and 1102A, at least one of each type of facility provided shall comply with this section. Additional storage may be provided outside of the reach ranges specified in Section 1138A.3.

A clear floor space at least 30 inches by 48 inches (762 mm by 1219 mm) complying with Section 1138A.1.4 that allows either a forward or parallel approach by a person using a wheelchair shall be provided at accessible storage facilities.

Accessible storage spaces and clothes rods shall be within at least one of the reach ranges specified in Section 1138A.3. (See Figure 11A-1J and Figure 11A-1I.)

Hardware for accessible storage facilities shall comply with Section 1138A.4. Touch latches and U-shaped pulls are acceptable.

Where fixed or built-in seating, tables or counters are provided for residents or guests, 5 percent, but not less than one, shall be accessible as provided in this section.

When seating spaces for persons in wheelchairs are provided at fixed tables or counters, clear floor space complying with Section 1138A.1.4 positioned for a forward approach shall be provided. Such clear floor space shall not overlap the required knee and toe space by more than 19 inches (483 mm). (See Figure 11A-1K.)

When seating for persons in wheelchairs is provided at fixed tables or counters, knee and toe space complying with Section 1138A.2 shall be provided. (See Figure 11A-1K.)

The tops of tables and counters shall be 28 inches to 34 inches (711 mm to 864 mm) from the finish floor.

Exception: When food or drink is served for consumption at a counter exceeding 34 inches (864 mm) in height, only a portion of the main counter, 60 inches (1524 mm) minimum in length, shall be provided in compliance with this section.