How big is your toilet?

Sanitary conveniences in buildings other than dwellings need to adequately provide for those with disabilities. Building Regulations Part M covers the requirements in detail.

In addition, the Equality Act 2010 states business have a ‘duty to make reasonable adjustment’, which can easily go above and beyond Part M. This means assessing and anticipating the needs of a range of disabled people so that adequate toilet access is in place. The Equality Act does not recognise ‘minimum standards‘ and states reasonable efforts must be made to accommodate disabled persons and carers.

A disabled toilet should be available, 1500mm x 2200mm in size, with a door that opens outwards that is at least 900mm wide. An emergency alarm and grab rails must be installed for a toilet to be classed as truly accessible.

Have disabled members? Ask them what would make their gym experience better, and implement it. Add this to your Disability Access Statement and review regularly.