Key Considerations for Grab Rail Placement
Grab rails are essential safety features for accessible bathrooms, offering stability and peace of mind for people with mobility challenges, seniors, or anyone recovering from an injury. Proper placement ensures maximum safety and comfort while adhering to user-specific needs and legal requirements.
In New Zealand, the Building Act 2004 and NZS 4121:2001 Design for Access and Mobility – Buildings and Associated Facilities set important standards for accessible design. These guidelines aim to ensure that bathrooms contribute to the health, independence, and well-being of everyone who uses them.
1. Who will use the grab rail?
The first consideration when deciding where to place grab rails is understanding who will be using them. The height, reach, and mobility of the user should guide the placement:
Seniors: Lower, easily reachable rails are often needed.
Wheelchair users: Rails should be placed closer to seated positions for easier support when transferring.
2. What is the bathroom set up?
The configuration of your bathroom is also important for determining ideal grab rail locations. The type of shower, bathtub, and toilet all play a role:
Walk-in shower: A vertical rail near the entrance and a horizontal rail along the wall provide the best support.
Bathtub: Install rails where they can be easily reached for support when stepping in and out.
At Newline Showers, we offer grab rails in different shapes as sizes, such as our linear, angled and T-Shaped options below:
3. Other Considerations
Shower entrance: If you have a solid door frame on your shower cubicle, a small vertical rail (300-450 mm) near the entrance can aid in stepping in and out. A good rule of thumb for height is placing the base of the rail between 900-1000 mm from the floor.
Inside the shower: Depending on the layout, rails can be installed either horizontally or vertically, depending on stud placement and the user’s needs.
Mounting: Ensure rails are fixed securely into studs or dwang/noggin (wooden framing inside the wall).
Material: Stainless steel is recommended for wet areas, as it resists rust.
Sealing: All screw holes must be sealed to prevent water damage.
Rail lengths: Standard rail lengths range from 300 mm to 900 mm.
Shower mixers: If you have a separate shower mixer, ensure there’s at least 150 mm of clearance between the rail and the mixer.
Consult a professional: If you have concerns about fixing the rails to a moulded shower cubicle, contact a builder for advice.
Placement Guidelines for Grab Rails
In the Shower
Entrance/Exit Points: Install a vertical rail near the door or opening to assist with balance when entering or exiting the shower.
Wall Support: A horizontal grab rail positioned between 850 mm and 950 mm from the floor offers support during showering, ensuring safety and stability.
Near the Toilet
Sidewall Bar: Install a horizontal rail on the sidewall, ideally between 700 mm and 800 mm from the floor, to assist users in lowering or raising themselves.
Next to the Bathtub
Edge Entry: A vertical rail at the edge of the tub helps users when stepping in and out.
Wall Rail: A horizontal rail along the inner tub wall adds stability when sitting or standing in the bathtub.
Additional tips for Grab Rail Installation
Test Before Final Installation: Consider using temporary rails or mock-ups to check if the planned positions are effective for the user.
Non-Slip Finishes: Choose grab rails with textured or anti-slip surfaces to provide a secure grip, especially in wet conditions.
Professional Installation: For safety, always have grab rails installed by a qualified professional to avoid accidents caused by improper mounting.
Create a safer and more accessible bathroom today!
Adding grab rails to your bathroom is a proactive way to enhance safety and independence for those who need extra support. Proper placement can make a significant difference in both comfort and accessibility. If you’re unsure about where to place grab rails or need expert advice on making your bathroom safer, we’re here to help! Contact us today on 0508 NEW LINE or email us at info@newline.co.nz for guidance, product recommendations, and professional support.
