36 CFR Parts 1190 and 1191 ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines - Preamble (Discussion of Comments and Changes)
609 Grab Bars
Section 609 covers grab bars at water closets, bathtubs, and showers. Specifications address size, spacing, position, surfaces, fittings, and structural strength. Changes to this section address:
The proposed rule specified 1 ¼ to 1 ½ circular cross sections. Non-circular cross sections were to have maximum cross section dimensions of 2 inches, a perimeter dimension between 4 and 4‒11/16 inches, and edges with a c inch minimum radius. For consistency with specifications for handrails, the Board has revised requirements for size (609.2) and spacing (609.3). In the final rule, the maximum circular cross section has been changed from 1 ½ inches to 2 inches. Edges must be rounded, and the requirement that edges have a c [sic] inch minimum radius (609.2 in the proposed rule) has been removed. The Board has clarified that the space between grab bars and projecting objects below and at the ends shall be 1 ½ inches minimum, consistent with criteria for water closets, tubs, and showers (609.3). In addition, the minimum clearance between grab bars and protruding objects above has been changed from 15 inches to 12 inches (609.3), consistent with specifications for toilet paper dispensers included in the proposed rule (604.7) and the ANSI A117.1‒2003 standard.
Comment. Commenters pointed out the proposed rule was not clear on whether the height of grab bars was to be measured to the top or to the centerline.
Response. The Board has clarified that the height of grab bars is measured to the top of the gripping surface (609.4).
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