March 5, 2024

Where are ADA Grab Bars Required to be Located?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines specific requirements for accessible design in certain places. ADA regulations mandate specific accessibility features in public and commercial buildings; however, ADA grab bars are not universally required to be located in all areas of these facilities. We’ve outlined below specific locations within public and commercial buildings that are required to have ADA grab bars present.

When and where are ADA grab bars required to be located?

• New construction: All public and commercially owned buildings, including shopping malls, hospitals, hotels, and restaurants, must be built to meet the ADA Standards for Accessible Design since 1992. This applies to all areas of the building, including restrooms, hallways, and common areas.
• Alterations: When alterations are made to existing public or commercially owned buildings, regardless of the original date of construction, an accessible path of travel to the altered area must be created, and any restrooms, bathing facilities, or drinking fountains that are being altered must comply with the ADA Standards.
• Accessible restrooms: ADA grab bars are mandatory in accessible toilet stalls and around accessible bathtubs and showers. These specific locations need to comply with designated size and placement specifications outlined in the ADA Standards. 
• Toilet stalls: In accessible toilet stalls, grab bars must be installed on the side wall and back wall near the toilet. The side wall grab bar must be at least 42 inches long and extend at least 54 inches from the back wall. The back wall grab bar must be at least 36 inches long and extend at least 12 inches on either side of the toilet centerline. See GrabBars.com‘s placement guide: ADA Toilet Grab Bar Placement Guide – Commercial
• Bathtubs: If a bathtub is provided in an accessible bathroom, grab bars must be installed on the wall near the bathtub seat and on the bathtub wall. See GrabBars.com‘s placement guide: ADA Bathtub Grab Bar Placement Guide – Commercial
• Showers: In accessible showers, grab bars must be installed on the wall opposite the shower controls, the wall closest to the shower seat or tub seat, and the end wall of the shower stall. See GrabBars.com‘s placement guide: ADA Shower Grab Bar Placement Guide – Commercial

It’s important to note that the specific requirements can vary depending on the type of facility and the specific layout of the space.  It’s always recommended to consult with an accessibility specialist or refer to the complete ADA Standards for Accessible Design for the most up-to-date and detailed information.

What are some key points to keep in mind regarding required ADA placement?

• The ADA focuses on accessibility and ensuring equal access for individuals with disabilities.
• Specific areas with designated purposes, like accessible restrooms, require ADA grab bars for functional support.
• General areas without designated functions don’t necessarily require grab bars under ADA regulations, although their installation can still be beneficial for broader accessibility.

If you have further questions about specific requirements or need detailed information on ADA regulations, it’s recommended to consult the official ADA Standards for Accessible Design or seek guidance from an accessibility specialist.

Take a look at our wide variety of ADA grab bars here: ADA Grab Bars