April 3, 2024

Which Grab Bars are Needed for Handicap-Accessible Showers?

Grab bars are essential safety features in handicap-accessible showers. They provide support and stability, helping individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations to safely enter, exit, and navigate the shower.

Here are some essential grab bars to consider for your handicap-accessible shower:

• Horizontal grab bar: This is typically installed at a height of 33-36 inches above the floor along one or both sides of the shower. It provides support for entering and exiting the shower.   
• Vertical grab bar: This is installed on the wall at a height of 33-36 inches above the floor. It provides support for transferring in and out of the shower or for maintaining balance.
• Corner grab bar: This can be installed in the corner of the shower and provides support for turning or pivoting.   
• In-shower seating: While not strictly a grab bar, a shower seat can be a valuable addition to a handicap-accessible shower, providing a safe and comfortable place to sit during showering.

There are two types of handicap-accessible showers: one with a built-in shower seat and one that is a roll-in shower stall. The required grab bars and their placement differs depending on the type of shower. We’ve broken down the essential grab bars needed for each type of handicap-accessible shower, adhering to ADA safety regulations, below.

What are the requirements for grab bars in handicap-accessible showers with built-in shower seats?

There must be either one L-shaped grab bar across the back wall and control wall or two separate straight grab bars (one vertical, one horizontal) on the back wall and the control wall. Each grab bar must be at least 36 inches long. The vertical grab bar must be mounted on the back wall, at least 18 inches from the back wall and extending to within 6 inches of the shower seat. The horizontal grab bar must be mounted on the back wall, behind the shower seat, at least 24 inches long. Both horizontal and vertical grab bars should be installed between 33 and 36 inches from the shower floor.

What are the requirements for grab bars in handicap-accessible roll-in shower stalls?

There must be three separate grab bars strategically placed on the back and side wall of the shower to provide support throughout the shower stall. Each grab bar needs to be a minimum of 33 inches long and they must be mounted 33-36 inches above the finished floor. Shower controls should be between 38-48 inches above the floor for easy reach from a seated position.

Take a look at the full grab bar guide for both types of handicap-accessible showers here: ADA Shower Grab Bar Placement Guide

What are the ADA standards for grab bars in handicap-accessible showers?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines specific requirements for grab bars in accessible bathrooms. These include:

• Placement: Grab bars must be located in specific positions to provide adequate support. Refer to the above guide for specific required grab bar placements based on the type of shower you have.  
• Length: Grab bars must be of sufficient length to provide adequate support.   
• Diameter: Grab bars must have a diameter of 1.25 to 1.5 inches for comfortable gripping.
• Material: Grab bars must be made of a durable, corrosion-resistant material, such as stainless steel.
• Weight Capacity: Grab bars must be able to support a weight of at least 250 pounds. 
• Wall Clearance: There should be 1.5 inches of clearance between the grab bar and the wall surface to allow for ease of gripping.
• Slip-Resistance: The grab bar surface must be slip-resistant to prevent falls. Textured finishes, such as Peened and Knurled, offer an enhanced non-slip grip.
• Installation: Grab bars should be securely mounted into wall studs for maximum weight capacity. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure maximum security.

By adhering to these ADA guidelines, you can ensure that handicap-accessible showers are safe and functional for users with varying mobility needs. Check out our ADA Shower Grab Bar Placement Guide for additional specifics outlined by ADA regulations and technical drawings. 

If you are in need of ADA-compliant grab bars, take a look here: Grab Bars

If you have any additional questions about grab bars or their placement in handicap-accessible showers, give us a call at 704-800-4629, live chat with us on GrabBars.com or email us at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help you out.