The Key To A More Accessible Washroom Washrooms


Ramona Shellard, sales director at


WEPA Professional UK, discusses the importance of business owners


creating an accessible


washroom environment that accommodates a diverse range of needs.


An essential component of fostering an inclusive environment is ensuring that the washroom is accessible. In the UK, around 24%1 of the population has a disability and 3 out of 102


people don’t find


their local public space inclusive. This highlights the critical need for more thoughtfully designed bathroom facilities. For individuals with sensory issues or limited mobility, poorly designed washroom features can create unnecessary challenges and barriers.


Accessible environments ensure that everyone— regardless of physical ability or sensory needs—can use facilities with ease and dignity. In the context of the washroom, this means ensuring that the facilities and products are functional and inclusive for all users.


Washrooms designed with inclusivity in mind may feature hygiene


products such as easy-to-reach


paper towel dispensers and easy-pull rolls, which can play a crucial role in improving the user experience. The benefits of accessible hygiene products extend further than the end user, as investing in accessible hygiene products sends a strong message about a business’s commitment to inclusivity.


Hygiene Paper Enhances Washroom Accessibility


Hygiene paper dispensers can offer a simple and easy-to-implement solution to make washrooms more accessible for users with diverse needs, whilst helping facilities staff.


A starting point for facilities managers would be installing easy- to-pull rolls designed to assist users with limited dexterity or physical impairments. With these requiring less strength or precision, they can help individuals access hygiene paper without an unnecessary struggle.


The height installation of hygiene paper dispensers can further enhance accessibility in the washroom. Having paper dispensers installed


at a lower level can wheelchair users and children. help improve reachability for


Beyond physical capabilities, 1 in 203


out of the general population


has a Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), meaning they are hyper- sensitive to senses such as touch and sound. Implementing touch- free products not only eliminates the need for unnecessary contact which can improve overall hand hygiene, but also reduces potential triggers associated with touch.


Similarly, the absence of noise from paper dispensers offers a quieter alternative to traditional hand dryers. Jet air dryers can reach noise levels up to 94dB4


, which can be overwhelming, especially


for those with SPD. Paper towel dispensers are easy to use for many different people, ensuring that everyone can dry their hands effectively and safely.


Individuals with sensory issues should be able to access hygiene products with comfort and ease. Soaps that have certifications, such as Dermatest®


,


are formulated to be gentle and kind to our skin. This provides access to basic hygiene that is


free from harsh chemicals and reduces the risk of irritation or discomfort for users with skin sensitivity or sensory issues.


Accessibility extends beyond customers, it’s equally critical for


facilities management staff. Ergonomic and user-friendly designs can help streamline maintenance tasks, such as refills, within the washroom. By prioritising accessibility, businesses can support their staff with tools that save time, minimise physical labour, and enhance the efficiency of the workflow.


Accessibility As A Non-Negotiable


Accessibility in the washroom should be a fundamental standard. As business owners or facilities managers, it is our responsibility to strive for inclusivity. Solutions such as easy-to-pull rolls, low dispensers and touch-free technology ensure that a wide range of individuals with complex needs can use washrooms comfortably and with dignity. Access to hygiene is a non-negotiable right and by ensuring that your washroom facilities meet a diverse range of needs, we can make significant strides towards greater inclusivity overall.


1: https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-9602/ 2: https://www.prp-co.uk/news/inclusive-design-in-urban-public-space/


3: https://sensoryhealth.org/basic/understanding-sensory-integration-process 4: https://www.satino-by-wepa.com/en/corporate/hand-hygiene


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