Bathroom & Changing Facilities in the School
The bathroom and changing facilities within the school are probably the most difficult of rooms to plan as there are issues of access to the equipment, ergonomic design and above all the safety of less able, vulnerable users in a wet, potentially hazardous environment.
The Document M is the initial starting point for design and layout considerations. Rather than add to further discussion on this topic which is well covered elsewhere, this article concentrates on the major equipment decisions for bathrooms and changing facilities for both assisted and unassisted bathing and toileting. With the building and refurbishment of schools providing so many new facilities, there is a good chance that these rooms can be planned-in from the start although in some cases, it may be a question of utilizing some other previously designated space and trying to fit things in.
Of course a lot depends on the level of disability likely to be present in any particular school. This level can vary widely between schools and can be subject to frequent change with a lot of unknowns as to who may be joining the school, creating real concerns about future-proofing when purchasing equipment and creating the overall design.
Generally, the equipment items required will include a shower, an adjustable height changing and/or shower table and an automatic wash/dry toilet with suitable shower/toileting chair. Where the level of disability is high with non- ambulant users, provision of a ceiling track hoist is the norm and an adjustable height basin may also be required.
Choosing your equipment
Where a shower is to be installed, then there are choices between level access or cubicle or other enclosures.
Again depending on the user’s needs, a separate changing bench may be required. The most practical solution in a typical bathroom with limited space, is the height adjustable folding wall mounted version. If space allows, mobile changing and showering tables give added versatility.
Another important piece of equipment to consider is the toilet. It is thought by many that the automatic wash/dry toilets, which are essential for those users unable to use a conventional toilet, will in time become accepted as the norm for all users.
Finally there is the basin. Wheelchair users would benefit from a basin with variable height especially in a multi user environment. For users with poor hand control, automatic taps and waste are essential.
What is clear is that any design must preserve the user’s dignity as the most important consideration.
Technical considerations
Water supplies to the shower, basin etc are controlled by thermostatic mixer valves as a means to help to prevent scalding. These must be of an approved type under the TMV scheme. (Consideration must be given to future servicing and maintenance requirements of these items to ensure their continuing correct operation).
Electrical zoning regulations are another issue to which attention must be paid. These have been subject to revision in recent years and care must be taken for obvious safety reasons that the latest good practice is followed.
Any equipment in contact with the water supply should be WRAS approved. Non slip flooring and grab handles positioned as required, are standard requirements.
The foregoing gives food for thought when considering the planning of bathing, toileting and changing facilities. Reputable equipment manufacturers such as Kingkraft have many years of experience and are very willing to provide layout designs and equipment recommendations.
For your free planning guide, contact Kingkraft Ltd on 0114 269 06 97 or email: info@kingkraft.co.uk
Last changed: Apr 12 2011 at 8:01 AM
