QUESTION:
Why aren’t there more universal changing tables in public restrooms?
ANSWER:
The ADA mandates that baby changing stations be present in both men’s and women’s restrooms.
If you have changing tables in your facility that has multiple toilet or bathing rooms, changing tables should be dispersed throughout the facility. And because toilet rooms are commonly separated between Men and Women, if one toilet room has a changing table, the other toilet room should have a changing table as well, or have one in an accessible “family” bathroom. It is best to locate changing tables so that they are easy to use by people with disabilities with room to roll under the table..
The reality is someone with a disability that requires personal care in the restroom, often doesn’t outgrow the need for a changing table. Parents and caretakers of people with disabilities frequently encounter the need for a universal, or adult, changing table. These are not required under the ADA, but a business can always go above and beyond the ADA to provide accessibility to their customers.
If a facility voluntarily installs an adult changing table, the ADA provides technical guidelines (such as height and clear floor space requirements under work surface standards) on how to make it accessible.
For additional information contact Dana Gover, MPA, ADAC, Training & Technical Assistance Consultation
Northwest ADA Center-Idaho Email: dananwadacenteridaho@gmail.com ADA TA Hotline: voice and text 208-841-9422