The tap in an accessible toilet should be an easy-to-use design that doesn’t require much force. Especially as some disabilities involve difficulty gripping things, the tap should be useable with a closed fist. For this reason, a lever design (see photo above) is much better than a tap with a twistable knob.
Similarly, bins should be easily operated without much force and with a closed fist (see photo above). Foot-pedal bins are a big no no, as anyone with limited or no leg function would find them impossible to use. It’s also important that bins are large enough for multiple users to discreetly dispose of (adult) diapers, stoma bags, or other waste items.
Denise
15 Aug 2019Great article, I will be sending people who ask me about accessible bathrooms here. #7, “Space” is one of my pet peeves. I have been in several “handicapped bathrooms” that did not have room to turn my wheelchair around, and 1 that didn’t even have room for my wheelchair with the door shut. But of course, we all have our horror stories.
Josephine Rees
17 Aug 2019Thanks Denise! Absolutely, we’ve all unfortunately experienced the challenge and disappointment of an “accessible” toilet that isn’t very accessible at all. I think one of the biggest forces of change = education and awareness – specifically, about accessibility features and needs of the target users of an accessible toilet. I’m hoping this article will help spread the word and encourage establishments in Amsterdam and beyond to make small but important changes.