HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN

Transcription

1 Source: STANDARD HANDBOOK OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING AND DESIGN CHAPTER 34 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN Blair A. Rowley Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio 34.1 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS THE KITCHEN THE BATHROOM BIBLIOGRAPHY There are many areas of the home both inside and out that may require modification to accommodate individuals with disabilities. This chapter discusses two major indoor areas, the kitchen and the bathroom. The considerations that follow should be used as starting points in meeting the unique needs of each person who has a disability GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS Electrical The main electrical consideration is safety. The electrical service in the kitchen and bathroom must incorporate ground-fault monitors as required by local codes. Additional consideration involves the accessibility of switches and outlets. Lighting is also a factor in meeting the needs of the visually impaired Lighting Lighting should be nonglare, and areas of lighting should be nonreflective, using low-sheen laminates. Natural lighting, if available, is preferred. Other lighting sources involve incandescent tungsten, halogen, or fluorescent lighting. The following are considered when using these. Incandescent Tungsten. This is a harsh light that creates a sharper edge to objects, allowing them to be easily differentiated. The yellow and red characteristics of this light give it a better definition to objects. Halogen. This is similar to tungsten, except the color characteristics are more constant over the color spectrum. It is also a brighter light and adds dimension if other lighting is used. It is an excellent light to highlight ceilings and walls and to reduce glare without using a diffuser. Fluorescent. There are choices in selecting fluorescent bulbs with different color lighting. A fullspectrum fluorescent light allows the eyes to see items in a natural state; it is a soft light that may 34.1

2 34.2 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING blend objects into the background, making them harder to see. Those that give off blue and green colors may be harder on some eyes yet advantageous for people with color impairments Switches Switches and other type of electrical controls for the disabled are designed for ease of operation and should be placed in an accessible location, where they cannot be accidentally turned on by being bumped into. Depending on the type of disability the user has, these controls can vary greatly and most likely will have to be tailored to each individual s need Main Light The location of all wall switches should not exceed 48 in above the floor. A dimmer switch with a lever handle can control the proper amount of lighting for the main kitchen light fixture and should be placed by the main door on a wall. Additional simple on/off switches can be located by other entrances Sink and Range Fluorescent Lights The best switch locations are a few inches below the overhang of the kitchen counter, roughly at 28 to 30 in of height. Placing these switches at the back wall extends the reach of a seated individual too far, especially over a hot range, so this is not a good solution Electric Disposal The disposal switch should be placed where a disabled individual cannot turn it on accidentally by bumping it with his or her wheelchair. The switch should also be located so that no one can operate it and be in contact with the sink at the same time Electric Fan A control knob with a three-speed clicking-type lever handle is a good choice. This variable control can accommodate people with a multitude of disabilities THE KITCHEN Kitchen Layout When designing a kitchen for use by persons with mobility impairments, especially those who use wheelchairs, careful layout of the kitchen is crucial to maintaining accessibility. People who are mobility impaired may Have walking and standing limitations that require them to sit while working Use a mobility aid such as crutches, canes, or walkers Use a wheelchair One of the key issues to consider when designing for persons with mobility impairments is adequate space to maneuver a mobility aid such as a wheelchair or walker.

3 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN Maneuvering Space Space to maneuver close to cabinets, appliances, and work areas must be provided. Each feature must have at least 30 by 48 in of clear floor space arranged for either parallel or perpendicular approach by wheelchair. Clear floor space may extend under the counters and into knee-space areas up to 19 in Knee Space Adequate knee space under counter surfaces is important for people who need to sit while performing kitchen tasks. The space should allow them to pull up under the counter for work areas, sinks, and cook tops. Knee room should be provided beside appliances such as ranges, ovens, and dishwashers. Knee spaces should be at least 30 in wide, 27 in high, and 19 in deep. A width of at least 36 in is preferred because this provides additional turning space, which is especially important in small kitchens Turnaround Space A space large enough for a person to turn around 180 degrees should be provided in the kitchen. If the kitchen is very small, the space can be provided immediately adjacent to the kitchen. Pivoting Turn. Sufficient space for a complete pivoting turn can be provided with a 5-ft clear diameter floor area. This allows a full turning radius of 360 degrees. The best location for the turning space is away from appliance areas and between walls or cabinets only. T-Turn. A T-shaped turning space allows a three-point turn to be accomplished. By making one of the necessary kitchen knee spaces 3 ft wide or wider, one leg of the T can be accomplished within the knee space. This arrangement can solve maneuvering problems in very small kitchens Laying It All Out Efficient kitchens are usually designed around a work triangle. This triangle is formed by the location of the refrigerator, sink, and range. The arrangement of the surrounding work center depends on the available space. In general, an L-shaped kitchen provides the best access U-Shaped Work Center Advantages to using a U-shaped work center include Plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair Room for two cooks Reduced traffic flow problems Reduced risk of bumping into appliances L-Shaped Work Center Advantages to using an L-shape work center are Traffic flow does not interfere with work triangle Plenty of room for storage next to each workstation Room for two people or a wheelchair

4 34.4 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING Island and Peninsula Work Centers A work center with this layout shortens the work triangle, an advantage for people with low vision or those who use walkers or crutches. Open appliance doors may, however, block aisle space needed for a wheelchair Corridor and Pullman Work Centers A corridor work center places appliances across an aisle. A Pullman design has all appliances on one wall. Like island work center designs, these designs shorten the work triangle. The distances between appliances can make working in a kitchen with this type of design tiring for people with mobility impairments. Table 34.1 summarizes the preceding information. TABLE 34.1 Recommended Work Triangle Dimensions Source: Whirlpool Home Appliances. Table 34.2 provides some comfort zones for kitchen dimensions. These are ranges for some kitchen dimensions to maintain usability. TABLE 34.2 Comfort Zones *Leaning on another person or using a cane, crutches, or walker. Source: Whirlpool Home Appliances Design Notes The spaces recommended in Tables 34.1 and 34.2 generally are adequate for most people who use standard-sized manual or electric wheelchairs. More space than the minimum is recommended when designing a kitchen for use by more than People who use electric scooters for mobility will require more space to maneuver because most one person. scooters are much less maneuverable than a power wheelchair. Always consider the specific needs of the person for whom the kitchen is being designed before implementing a standard design. Be sure to use nonskid floor coverings.

5 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN 34.5 Design eating areas with room for round tables for families with deaf members. This provides individuals with a clear view of each other to facilitate communication. Keep the pathway for bringing groceries into the house as short and straight as possible. Keep the work triangle small for persons with visual impairments Refrigerator/Freezer A refrigerator/freezer in a side-by-side configuration with good door storage spaces, a built-in icemaker, and a cold-water dispenser is recommended. Dimensions. Height. Forty-eight inches is the maximum height a wheelchair-assisted individual should be expected to reach into a refrigerator/freezer. Width. Between 32 and 48 inches; standard to extrawide dimensions are recommended. Due to a lower reach height, a wider refrigerator/freezer will allow more accessible storage space. Depth. Standard dimensions are best used along with rollout drawers. Adaptive Features. Location. The best alternative is to position the refrigerator/freezer away from any corners in the kitchen so that doors open 180 degrees. This allows plenty of space to open the doors and for wheelchair accessibility to the interior of the refrigerator/freezer. Loop Handles. Due to the tight seal and weight of refrigerator/freezer doors, a significant force and space are required to open and close them. Loop handles should be the same dimensions as handrails, 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 in in diameter for the handgrip, and they should be mounted 1 1/2 in away from the refrigerator door. Sometimes a short leather or nylon loop can be used, e.g., a short dog leash. These are excellent features to ease access for those with degraded motor coordination and for visually impaired individuals. Powered Doors. A self-opening and closing feature is a good idea for individuals with loss of strength and motor coordination. This can best be accomplished using a custom-designed system with electrical servomotors and a touch-sensitive switch. Rollout Basket Shelves. Due to standard depth of a refrigerator, the reach must be accommodated for wheelchair-assisted individuals. Simple plastic-covered wire baskets with wheels on a rail allow access to the rear of the refrigerator. A lock-in mechanism should be designed into the shelf at its maximum extension, which should be set at two-thirds its depth. Side-by-Side Layout of Refrigerator/Freezer. The best configuration is for the two units to sit side by side with their doors opening from the middle. This makes it easier to move items between the two units. Water Dispenser. Built into refrigerator at 32 in above the ground, this is the average counter top height for wheelchair-assisted individual. Icemaker. This eliminates the nuisance of filling up and emptying ice trays for mobility-impaired individuals. Location of icemaker dispenser should be next to the water dispenser Dishwasher The assistive kitchen dishwasher is designed for wheelchair-assisted people with varying disabilities but also accommodates people with visual impairments. Since it is impossible to come up with one universal design for all disabilities, adaptations are presented. Dimensions Standard height to fit under the countertop or countertop height for a roll-around unit. Standard width of a conventional dishwasher. Standard depth of a conventional dishwasher.

6 34.6 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING Adaptive Features. Location. The dishwasher should be located so that it is accessible from either side. It should be raised off the floor 6 to 8 in to ease access. Controls. Controls for the dishwasher should be designed to require little force to operate and not require gripping, twisting, or fine finger dexterity. Lever handle or blade control knob. These are excellent controls for setting different types of wash cycles, and their position can be labeled to assist those with visual disabilities. Electronic touch-pad controls. These are the best controls for those with degraded finger/hand mobility and strength. Rolling Table. This item is essential for loading and unloading the dishwasher. It should be countertop height with handles for ease of mobility. Alternative Design. If space is a concern, compact dishwashers are available on the market that fit on top of a countertop with the following dimensions: 19.5 in high by 21.5 in wide by 22.5 in deep. These have the standard drop-down doors with rollout baskets. Drop-Down Front Door. Most standard dishwashers are equipped with drop-down doors. As an added feature, grip handles are nice for both inside and outside the dishwasher for ease of opening and closing the door. Roll-Out Basket. Most standard dishwashers are also equipped with this feature, so this should not be an additional need unless absent Microwave Controls. The choice of controls depends on the disability that is being accommodated. It is important to note that many companies offer optional Braille controls for those who are visually impaired. Dial Controls. Advantage. More accessible for the visually impaired (versus electric touch controls) Disadvantages. Require grasping and twisting motions Difficult for persons with limited motor capabilities to operate Electrical Touch Controls. Advantages. Single-touch operation Requires little force for operation Requires no gripping or twisting Does not require fine finger dexterity Some manufacturers offer plastic overlay panels with raised tactile openings or labeling to aid the visually impaired Disadvantage. May not be accessible to those with visual impairments Redundant Cueing/Feedback to the User. Controls should provide redundant cueing or feedback to the user in order to be accessible to persons with visual and hearing impairments. Examples of Redundant Cueing/Feedback. Click stops. These provide distinct audible sound and tactile cues.

7 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN 34.7 High-contrast labeling. Raised markers. Knee Space. Knee space needs to be available to wheelchair users to allow them access to the microwave. Make sure that the microwave is placed on a countertop that provides adequate knee space. Minimum Requirements Height: 27 in Depth: 19 in Width: 30 in Recommended Dimensions Height: 29 in or greater to allow for wheelchair armrests Width: 36 in Reach Ranges. Make sure that the microwave is situated so that its location complies with reach range requirements. Reach Range for Persons Seated in Wheelchair Down: 12 to 15 in above the floor Out (over the counter): 44 in above the floor (maximum) Up: 48 in above the floor (maximum) Side Reach for Persons Seated in a Wheelchair Lateral: 12 in (maximum) Down: 9 in above the floor (minimum) Up: 54 in above the floor(maximum) Reach for Standing Person, Mobility Impaired Up: 72 in above the floor Down: 24 in above the floor Clear Space. A minimum of 10 in of clear space must be available immediately adjacent to the microwave to allow for transfer of foods in and out of the microwave Oven A wall oven is the recommended type of oven to be used when accommodating persons with disabilities. This type of oven can be installed at the most appropriate height for the user, and the controls can be placed within reach of a standing or sitting user. Wall ovens come in several widths (24, 27, and 30 in). There are three types of doors that can be used: drop-front, side-hinged, and swinging doors. Height. Lowered wall ovens are usually installed 30 to 40 in above the floor. When installing the wall oven, it is important to make sure that its height is appropriate for the user. Knee Space. Knee space must be available to wheelchair users to allow them to access the oven. For a drop-front door, knee space must be provided on either side of the oven. For a side-hinged or

8 34.8 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING swinging door, knee space must be provided directly under the oven or on the side closest to the door handle. Minimum Requirements and Recommended Dimensions. The same as for microwaves. Reach Ranges. The same as for microwaves. Controls. The type of control chosen should be based on the individual s disability. The following control types can be used for the oven, and the advantages and disadvantages are provided for each type. Lever Type. Advantages include They do not require grasping for operation. Their shape provides a natural pointer that indicates the control s position Blade Knobs. Control with a large straight blade across the center; use the blade to turn the knob. Advantages include Blade shape is asymmetrical. It extends on one side, which forms a pointer that helps indicate the control s position. The shape acts as a lever. Turning is accomplished with reduced effort. The disadvantage is that it requires grasping for operation. Electrical Touch Controls. Advantages include Single-touch operation Requires little force for operation Requires no gripping or twisting Does not require fine finger dexterity Some manufacturers offer plastic overlay panels with raised tactile openings or labeling to aid the visually impaired The disadvantage is that they may not be accessible to those with visual impairments. Redundant Cueing/Feedback to the User. Controls should provide redundant cueing or feedback to the user in order to be accessible to persons with visual and hearing impairments. Examples of Redundant Cueing/Feedback. Click stops. These provide distinct audible sounds and tactile cues. High-contrast labeling. Raised markers. Transfer of Foods. The most used oven rack should be placed so that it is at the same height as the adjacent counter space. This facilitates easy sliding of hot pans from the oven to the counter. Drop-Front Door. Pullout shelf next to the oven, just below the countertop and at the same height as the oven rack. Side-Hinged Door. Shelf below the oven, 10 in wide, extends the full width of the oven (minimum). 1. Permanent shelf, i.e., the front edge of the counter. 2. Pull-out shelf, located directly under the countertop. Safety. It is recommended that only electrical ovens be used because (1) there are no products of combustion such as carbon monoxide when using electrical ovens and (2) individuals with an impaired sense of smell will not be able to detect a gas leak.

9 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN Range It is recommended that a cooktop be used because it can be installed at the most appropriate height for the user, its side or front controls are easily reached by most individuals, and counter installation can allow open space below the cooktop for easy access. Height. It is recommended that the cooktop be installed at a height of 30 to 32 in above the floor. However, to ensure adequate clear space adjacent to the cooktop, make sure that the cooktop is installed at the same height as the adjacent countertop. Knee Space. Knee space needs to be available for wheelchair users to allow them to access the cooktop. Ideally, space should be available under the cooktop to allow easiest access. Minimum Requirements and Recommended Dimensions. The same as for microwaves. Reach Ranges. The same as for microwaves. Clear Space. Adequate clear space beside burners is required. The recommended minimum amount of clear space is 12 in. Controls. Controls should never be located at the rear of the unit. Controls should be located on or near the front of the cooking unit. This ensures that there is no need to reach over or around any burners. Also, controls located near or at the front are more accessible for persons with visual impairments. There are several different types of controls that can be used with the cooktop. The choice of control type should be based on the individual s disability. These control types, along with their advantages and disadvantages, are provided below. Lever Type. Advantages include They do not require grasping for operation. Their shape provides a natural pointer that indicates the control s position Blade Knobs. Control with a large straight blade across the center; use the blade to turn the knob. Advantages include Blade shape is asymmetrical. It extends on one side and forms a pointer that helps indicate the control s position. The shape acts as a lever. Turning is accomplished with reduced effort. The disadvantage is that they require grasping for operation. Electrical Touch Controls. Advantages include Single-touch operation Requires little force for operation Requires no gripping or twisting Does not require fine finger dexterity Some manufacturers offer plastic overlay panels with raised tactile openings or labeling to aid the visually impaired The disadvantage is that they may not be accessible to those with visual impairments. Redundant Cueing/Feedback to the User. Controls should provide redundant cueing or feedback to the user in order to be accessible to persons with visual and hearing impairments. Examples of Redundant Cueing/Feedback. Click stops. Provide distinct audible sounds and tactile cues. High-contrast labeling. Raised markers.

10 34.10 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING Range Hood. Range hoods come in a variety of widths (30, 36, and 48 in). Controls for the range hood may be located on the lower front panel of the hood to decrease the reach-range requirements for operation. However, it is recommended that these controls be located on the cooktop panel or in nearby base cabinets just below the counter top. To adapt existing controls located on the range hood itself, a conventional toggle switch can be installed at a lower position as an auxiliary control. The hood controls should be set and left on so that the toggle switch can be used for on/off operation. Safety. Install the cooking unit near to the sink so that the spray hose can reach some of the burners in case of non-grease-based fires. Cooking units that have flush burners should be specified such that pots and pans can be slid from the cooking surface to the counter without having to be lifted. The counter surface next to the stove should be able to withstand hot items. The burners, cooktop, and counters should be at a smooth common level, with no more than a 1/8-in raised edge, flush is preferred. Burners should be staggered so that the user does not have to reach over a hot burner to get to a rear burner. Placing an angled mirror over the cooktop allows people in wheelchairs to see the contents of pots. It is recommended that only electrical cooktops be used because (1) there are no products of combustion such as carbon monoxide when using electrical cooktops and (2) individuals with an impaired sense of smell will not be able to detect a gas leak Kitchen Sink The adapted kitchen sink is designed for wheelchair-seated people with varying disabilities but also accommodates visually impaired people. Since it is impossible to come up with a universal design for all disabilities, some alternative suggestions are provided. Design Concept. The adaptive sink design features two bowls with an electric waste disposal in the left sink bowl. Drains are positioned at the center of the left bowl and at the rear inner corner of the right bowl so as to position the plumbing away from the individual s knees in a wheelchair. Since the right basin has its drain positioned at the corner, the bottom of the sink should be sloped toward the drain hole. Lever handles are mounted halfway between the two sink bowls with 300-degree range of motion for maximum flexibility. Another faucet with a flexible rubber hose is provided with a 7-ft reach. A removable sloping protection panel is mounted in front of the plumbing pipe under the sink to protect the knees of a wheelchair-assisted individual. Dimensions. The recommended countertop height is 27 to 34 in from the finished floor to the underside of the countertop. The upper limit was chosen for the sink height due to the bowl depth being 6.5 in. This allows ample knee space for a wheelchair-assisted individual. The shallow basin (6.5 in) allows the 27-in minimum knee height from the finished floor to the bottom of the sink necessary for a wheelchair-assisted individual. The total sink dimension (bowl only is 20 in wide by 20 in deep). The maximum depth reach for a wheelchair-assisted person is 44 in, so there is plenty of margin to reach beyond the back of the sink. The width of the right-hand sink plus the counter is 40 in. The wheelchair is generally 26 in wide, so this distance is 14 in wider than the necessary space needed to accommodate a wheelchair-assisted individual s knees under the sink and the counter (40 in). Adaptive Features Height and reach: Must be accessible by someone in a wheelchair with limited mobility. Knee space: Must allow wheelchair to fit under sink to provide maximum access. Bowl depth: Must be designed for accessible reach Faucet and drain position: Must be designed for accessible reach and not hinder knee position under sink.

11 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN Faucet and hose attachment: Designed to reach countertops. Single-lever faucet: Adapted to blind individuals or persons with degraded hand coordination. Protective panel: Plumbing drain pipe is shielded from knees of individual in a wheelchair. Other adaptive features considered but not used in the preceding adaptive kitchen sink design include Hot water dispensers to prevent individuals from having to carry pots of water to and from a range Adjustable-height basin that lowers and raises electrically with a touch of a button Pedal-operated faucets Motion sensors that when tripped activate hot or cold water at a preset rate and temperature for a finite amount of time and shut off automatically Electric Disposal. A disposer can be installed in any sink that has a full-size drain opening. For an assistive kitchen design, switch location, safety, and disposal location are the main design objectives. The on and off switch should be placed in an accessible area, possibly under the front lip of the countertop. Care should be taken not to position the switch where a wheelchair can accidentally bump the switch while the person is washing the dishes. It should also be located so that a person cannot contact the sink and switch at the same time. The electrical connection should be away from the water line and should be protected with a conduit pipe to eliminate any shock hazard. The disposal should be located away from any wheelchair-accessible area Counters Standard kitchen counters are 36 in high. This is adequate for disabled and nondisabled standing people but too high for people who are seated. Counter heights of 30, 32, and 34 in are more comfortable for a seated person to use for food preparation. This disparity will obviously make the design of a kitchen for use by standing and seated people difficult. For work such as mixing or beating, a 27-in height is desirable. NOTE: The usual height for a wheelchair armrest is 29 in. Adequate knee space requires at least 24 in. Accessible Solutions and Adaptations. Uniform-Height Counters. A uniform lowered height is not a recommended solution for a number of reasons: This is inconvenient for standing users. Appliances such as dishwashers, trash compactors, and ranges are designed for 36-in counter heights. Lowered counters may make resale of the house difficult without restoring counters to the standard height. Dual-Height Counters. A dual-height kitchen includes lowered counter segments to provide work areas for seated people. Each lowered segment must have clear knee space below. Clear vertical space of 30 in at the front of the counter will provide enough clearance for most wheelchairs. Electrically Adjustable Height. Motor-driven adjustable height counter segments that allow their height to be adjusted at the press of a switch provide a uniquely flexible, highly accessible solution. Manually Adjustable Segments. A design of this type allows counter height to be adjusted with minimal work. An adaptable design approach such as this is ideal for a rental unit where tenants may change relatively frequently. This can be accomplished in a couple of ways:

12 34.12 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING Wall-mounted brackets. Counters may be mounted with heavy-duty commercial shelf brackets and standards. Shelving of this type is seen in many retail store shelving units. Movable wood support. A wooden support strip can be attached to the sides of base cabinets and the countertop to allow for some adjustability. Breadboards, Chopping Blocks, and Pullout Work Surfaces. Provide a variety of work heights for different jobs. These accessories work best when at a height of 27 in and at least 30 in wide by 24 in deep Simple Modifications The following suggestions are modifications that can be readily and inexpensively made to existing kitchens to make them more accessible. Carts. A rolling, drop-leaf cart can provide an accessible work surface. The leaf can be raised to provide additional workspace. The cart can be rolled to the refrigerator or stove to transport food. A Sturdy Work Table. Providing a heavy-duty kitchen table, which can take the abuse of food preparation work and is located as close as possible to the sink and appliances, is a workable and lowcost solution. Design Notes Use solid surface material for countertops (easy cleaning). Round corners on all countertops, especially for visually impaired persons. Use contrasting colors on counter edges to increase visibility for those with visual impairments. Install drawer organizers. Ensure that a fire extinguisher is in easy reach of oven and range and is usable by persons with impaired mobility and dexterity. A mirror suspended above the cooking area allows vision into pots for a seated person. Include pullout shelving or readily accessible counter space near ovens and microwave to allow for sliding transfer of hot items. Be creative when designing a multilevel kitchen. Incorporate desks, eating bars, and tables. Cabinets and Storage. Storage space is a particularly troublesome issue for people with limited mobility. For many, a significant portion of conventional kitchen storage space is out of reach. In addition, available base cabinet space is reduced when making a kitchen accessible to people who use wheelchairs. By selecting more efficient and accessible storage options, much of this space can be recovered. Table 34.3 provides some information on shelving height for people with various mobility limitations. Accessible Storage Solutions. Full-Extension Drawers. A deep drawer that extends the full depth of the base cabinet and is mounted on full-extension slides is very useful. These drawers are similar to those found in an office file cabinet (Table 34.4).

13 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN TABLE 34.3 Comfort Zones *Leaning on another person or using a cane, crutches, or walker. Source: Whirlpool Home Appliances. TABLE 34.4 Recommended Drawer Heights Carts. Rolling carts that fit into knee space under countertops can provide additional storage. In addition, they Can be easily rolled out to provide knee space. Can provide additional workspace. Can provide a safe way to transport food and utensils. Countertop Storage Unit. The space between countertop and upper cabinets can provide easily reachable open storage. Overhead Cabinet Doors. Traditional swinging wall cabinet doors can be a hazard for blind people. Hardware that allows the cabinet doors to swing up and stay open can reduce this problem. Concealed Knee Space. Retractable doors can be used to conceal knee space. Special hardware allows the door to be pushed back under the counter after opening. Pantry. A pantry can provide easily accessible storage space. Height-adjustable shelving can tailor the space to individual needs. Shallow shelves keep items within easy reach. The pantry can be a reach-in unit with storage shelving on the doors or even a walk-in design. Other Accessible Storage Options. Additional options for accessible storage include Storage bins Pull-out storage Revolving shelves Swing-out shelves Add Storage Bins. The addition of pullout storage bins to shelves and cabinets can help make existing storage space accessible.

14 34.14 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING Lower Existing Cabinets. Existing overhead cabinets can be lowered as far as the top surface of existing counters if necessary. This provides accessible storage at minimal cost. Cabinets may be lowered to 12 to 15 in above the counters, while keeping the counter surface usable. Add a Freestanding Storage Cabinet. If floor space is available, a freestanding storage cabinet can provide accessible storage space. Design Notes. All drawers, doors, and hardware should be selected to provide easy access for people with limited dexterity. Recommended features include the following: Sliding or folding doors for cabinets provide for the least interference. Magnetic catches should be used on the doors. Large loop handles also should be used on doors and drawers. Toe space on base cabinets should be at least 9 in high and 6 in deep to allow wheelchair users to maneuver closer to the counters THE BATHROOM Accessible bathrooms should be designed to accommodate the maximum amount of maneuvering possible for physically challenged persons, their wheelchairs, and the possibility of a second person assisting Commode Location Ample space around the commode is necessary for side or front approach by wheelchair or walker user. The commode is best located in a corner where a wall is behind and beside the commode to easily install grab bars. Clearance of 18 in is needed between center line of commode and side wall for adequate shoulder space. Seat Height An accessible toilet seat height varies from user to user. Adjusting the seat height aids people who have difficulty rising. A commode seat should be at a height of 15 to 19 in above the floor. A good rule of thumb is an 18-in height, which is the same as most wheelchair seats. If a shower commode wheelchair is used, the chair and commode opening must line up. In general, this requires the commode opening to be 20 in from back wall. Adequate space is needed on both sides of the commode so that there is no obstruction. Safety Bars Mounted onto commode to provide user with grab bars. Good for person who has limited range of motion and cannot reach grab bars on walls.

15 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN Toilet Paper Dispenser Dispenser should be below any grab bars located around the commode area. Dispenser should be within easy reach of the person Door Clear Opening Doors should have a clear opening of between 32 and 36 in. The clear opening is measured from the face of the door in a 90-degree open position to the stop on the opposite jamb; the door itself has to be wider than the clear opening in order to comply. Level Surface The clear opening should lead to a level surface for a minimum of 5 ft in the direction that the door swings. A 60- by 60-in clear space is best and complies with all approaches. There are exact requirements for given approaches; please see Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG Sec and Fig. 25) for exact requirements. Threshold The threshold maximum height is 1/2 in. There must not be any sharp inclines or abrupt changes. A beveled threshold is recommended. Force to Open Door The pressure required to open doors with door closures should be limited to 3 to 6 ft lb. There should be a 3-second minimum closing time to a point 3 in from the latch. An automatic door opener may be used in different situations Electrical Controls (Wall Switches and Thermostat for Paraplegic Users) Safety Ground fault circuit indicator (GFCI) protected electrical receptacles, approved by National Electrical Code Plastic plug inserts for childproofing electrical receptacles whenever toddlers and young children are present in the environment Shatterproof light fixtures Use of ground wire with wiring and proper installation Lighting Natural Window at natural height

16 34.16 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING Glass Blocks that admit light but obscure vision; to install 1. Reinforced wood framed floor 2. Bracing at side wall 3. Provide for trim at top, curbs at floor level, and wall anchors 4. Set glass blocks with mortar 5. Caulk around glass wall Artificial Above sink with light beams (recommend two minimum) directed toward bowl and away from user s vision field Above and on both sides of grooming mirror/area In the bathing area, there should be lights above the shower stall or directed into stall above or around the door or curtain. Electrical Power Outlets AC with ground fault interrupters near or within sink reach area for various electrical grooming appliances Locate 15 in minimum above floor and 18 in minimum from any corners When installed above sink, recommend 15 in above sink top Wall switch located at entry 48 in above floor and 3in in from door molding Infrared or Sunlamp Flush mounting in the ceiling 115 V ac, 250 to 300 W Beam downward just outside shower stall exit Function: for warmth and drying comfort Fan Connection 115 V ac, 100 W Locate in ceiling, middle of bathroom Install concentric with ventilation porting Flooring Nonslip Surface. A nonslip surface should be used to prevent slipping and rolling resistance to wheelchairs. Color and Patterns Providing high contrasts allow for visual acuity. Patterns and edgings can guide people with low vision. Floors should be relatively light in color, with 30 to 50 percent reflectance. Examples of color schemes: cool colors (blues and greens), pastel colors, subdued color with intense color accents, or intense colors. Fire Code. All flooring and materials must meet National Fire Code, Class I.

17 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN Clear Floor Space for Commode Area Ample floor space in front of and beside the toilet fixture is necessary for users to approach the seat and make a safe transfer. If the commode can be approached from the front and side and a sink is installed next to it, the floor space must be at least 4 ft by 5 ft, 6 in. The 4-ft dimension extends into room from side wall next to commode fixture. The 5-ft, 6-in measurement is measured from the wall behind toilet to wall in front of toilet. If possible, always design the layout of an accessible bathroom to allow both a front and side transfer to the commode. Clear Floor Space for Shower and Sink Area Clear floor space under the lavatory must be a minimum area of 30 in wide by 48 in long that extends a maximum of 19 in under the lavatory. Minimum clear floor space for a roll-in shower is 3 ft by 3 ft. Clear Floor Space for Entire Bathroom Adequate floor space is necessary for a person to maneuver a wheelchair or walker around the bathroom without any obstruction. At least a 60-in turning radius is recommended. Clear Floor Space for Door Area Clear, unobstructed floor space is necessary at the door area to allow the door to open and close easily. Clear floor space includes the area on the hinge side of the door extending the width of the door and the area past the latch side of the door. A wider floor space is needed on the pull side of the door to provide space to open the door. Less area is needed on the push side of the door. Space must be available on the pull side of the door to operate the door latch, pull the door open, and remain out of the way of the swinging door. An outward-swinging door is preferable to provide more accessibility Grab Bars Resistance Force. Grab bars need to be capable of resisting at least 250 lb of force. However, very large persons may require more strength in the grab bar. Diameter of Bars. The bars should have a diameter in the range of 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 in. Clear Space. The space between the grab bar and the walls should be at least 1 1/2 in. Locations of Applicability Roll-in showers. In 36- by 36-in stalls, bars should be located on the side wall and the wall opposite the seat. In 30- by 60-in stalls, bars should be located on both side walls and the rear wall. Tubs. Bars should be located on the rear wall, side wall, and side wall opposite controls. Toilet stalls. Bars should be located on side wall and the wall flush against the commode.

18 34.18 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING Sink Type of Sinks Wall-mounted and countertop lavatoraties are accessible. Countertop sinks are more accessible due to large surface area to place toiletries. Countertop space can be adjusted according the consumer s needs. A self-supporting sink can have an optional, removable vanity cabinet underneath. Dimensions Depth of the sink (front to back) for persons using a wheelchair to be able to pull underneath sink. Accessible sinks should have dimensions of about 20 in wide by 18 to 27 in deep. Sink must have at least 29 in of clearance from the floor to the bottom of apron at front of sink. Adequate knee space under sink provides clearance for turns as well as space for close approach to sink by wheelchair users. Sink bowl should not be any deeper than 6 1/2 in. Mirror. Mirror must be mounted no higher than 40 in off floor. Examples of accessible mirrors include Tilted mirror angled toward floor to accommodate user Full-length mirror Faucet Systems Faucets should operate without gripping or twisting of handles. For persons who can operate faucet with closed fist, handle should not require more than 5 lb of force. Accessible faucet handle designs include Faucet setup with timer for water to run for period of time and then shut off automatically. Faucet that is electronically controlled to eliminate the need to turn handles: Senses the presence of the user s hands. Automatically turns water on and off. Temperature and flow rate of water are preset. Particularly useful for people with severe hand limitations. Faucets with single or double loop or lever handle designs. Plumbing Piping underneath sink must not interfere with clear floor space and knee space for wheelchair users and must be insulated to prevent heat injury to legs. Wheelchair user needs a clear floor space in front of sink area of approximately 30 by 48 in and knee height to bottom of sink of 22 in. Reinforcement of Walls. Bathroom walls around sink area may need to be reinforced for proper support of wall-mounted sink.

19 HOME MODIFICATION DESIGN Storage Knee Space Underneath Shelves. For a frontal approach to items on shelves, the bottom shelves can be eliminated. This design limits the total shelving space available to user, though. Depth of Shelves. This should be no greater than 18 in from the front of the closet to the back of the closet. This may vary depending on the size and limitations of person. Closet Doors. Several options exist: Door swings back 180 degrees so that wheelchair users can make a close parallel approach to reach items from the side. Eliminate the door, especially if the bathroom is not very large. Height Range of Shelves An adequate reach range for a wheelchair user to make a side reach is 9 to 54 in above the floor A good height range for storage is 15 in to 48 in above the floor. Storage Location and Size Placed in an area of bathroom that is easily accessed by disabled user. Must not obstruct any of the bathroom appliances. Amount of storage necessary varies from individual to individual. Users may want room for medical supplies and equipment. Others may need only a small amount of storage space. Pull-Out Drawers or Shelves Full-extension drawers can be installed in bathrooms up to 60 in off the floor. Higher drawers should be shallow for easy access. Lower drawers can be deeper. For a built-in storage drawer system, use full-extension drawer slides. These slides allow drawers to be pulled out of the cabinet for easy viewing and reaching to contents. These drawers should not be placed more than 42 in above the floor for wheelchair users. Handles Handles on storage closets and drawers should be accessible. Standard round doorknobs should be avoided for users with weak grasp. Handles should consist of a single lever or open-loop handle. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I acknowledge the contributions of my graduate students in helping assemble this information. Information was gathered from practical field experience, the literature, and interviews with users and rehabilitation engineers.

20 34.20 REHABILITATION ENGINEERING BIBLIOGRAPHY Frechette, Leon A., Accessible Housing, McGraw-Hill, New York, Germer, Jerry, Bathrooms: Design-Remodel-Build, Creative Homeowners Press, Upper Saddle River, N.J., Kearne, Deborah S., The ADA in Practice, R. S. Means Company, Kingston, Mass., Kira, Alexander, The Bathroom Criteria for Design, Bantam Books, New York, Loversidge, Robert D. Jr., and Laura V. Shinn, Access for All: An Illustrated Handbook of Barrier Free Design for Ohio, Schooley Caldwell Associates and the Ohio Governor s Council on People with Disabilities, Cleve-land, Mace, Ronald L., The Accessible Housing Design File, Barrier Free Environments, Inc., Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, NY, Mean ADA Compliance Pricing Guide, R. S. Means Company, and Adaptive Environments Center, Kingston, Mass., Wing, Charlie, The Visual Handbook of Building and Remodeling, Rodale Press, Emmaus, Pa., Wylde, Margaret, et al., Building for a Lifetime: The Design and Construction of Fully Accessible Homes, Taunton Press, Newtown, Conn., 1994.