The result is a more structured and
prescriptive framework. Designers must now cross-reference both documents to achieve compliance.
Which types of buildings does Part T apply to? Part T applies to non-residential buildings in England where toilet facilities are provided. This includes a wide range of environments such as offi ces, retail spaces, hospitality venues, leisure facilities, transport hubs and public buildings. In practical terms, if a building is open to
staff , customers or the general public and includes toilet provision, Part T is likely to apply. Its purpose is to ensure that these facilities are fi t for purpose, inclusive and appropriately confi gured, regardless of the building type or level of footfall.
Why single-sex provision now matters more One of the most signifi cant changes introduced by Part T is the mandatory requirement for separate single-sex toilets in many settings. This shift refl ects a growing emphasis on privacy and dignity, user comfort and safety, and clear and intuitive washroom layouts. For designers, this means accessible provision can no longer rely solely on unisex or universal spaces. Instead, accessibility must be embedded within single-sex environments, while still maintaining inclusive design principles. This is particularly relevant when
considering ambulant users – those who don’t require a wheelchair but benefi t from additional support such as grab rails or raised-height WCs because they have limited strength, balance or stability.
How Part T aff ects ambulant provision Part T – and subsequently the guidance in Document T – places greater emphasis on how ambulant accessible toilets are delivered, aligning with while also expanding on the guidance in Doc M.
It identifi es multiple approaches to toilet provision, including: • Fully enclosed ambulant universal toilets (Type A)
• Ambulant cubicles within single-sex washrooms (Type C) This has practical implications for layout planning. In multi-cubicle washrooms, designers must ensure: • At least one ambulant cubicle per washroom • Appropriate grab rail confi gurations • Suffi cient manoeuvring space and door clearances Solutions such as the Contour 21+ ambulant WC packs from Armitage Shanks are designed specifi cally to support these requirements. With raised-height WCs, integrated grab rails and compliant layouts, they simplify specifi cation while supporting safe, independent use.
Designing for compliance and beyond Meeting the requirements of both Documents M and T is about more than ticking boxes. It’s about creating washroom environments that work for everyone. Key considerations include:
• Clear, compliant layouts that support wheelchair users and ambulant users alike
• Visual contrast between fi ttings and surfaces to aid visual impairments
• Ergonomic components, such as lever operated taps and support rails
• Hygiene-focused design, including touch free options and easy-clean materials Armitage Shanks’ Doc M packs are developed with these principles in mind. Each pack includes not only the required components but also detailed layout guidance, helping specifi ers achieve compliance with confi dence. Design-led options, such as the Silk Black Doc M collection, also demonstrate that accessibility and aesthetics can go hand- in-hand, supporting more contemporary interior schemes without compromising performance.
Supporting specifi ers through CPD As regulations evolve, so too does the need for clear, practical guidance. Armitage Shanks off ers a range
of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) modules, designed to help architects and specifi ers stay up to date with: • Approved Document M requirements • The impact of Part T and Approved Document T • Best practice in accessible and inclusive washroom design These CPDs are available through the RIBA CPD Network and IdealSpec, providing valuable, accredited learning that can be applied directly to real-world projects.
Take the next step For a more detailed look at compliant layouts, product specifi cations and design guidance, download the Armitage Shanks Doc M brochure. To deepen your understanding, book a CPD session via the RIBA CPD Providers Network or IdealSpec platform and explore how evolving regulations are shaping the future of accessible washroom design.
www.idealspec.com KA16
Fully enclosed ambulant universal toilets (Type A)
Ambulant cubicles within single-sex washrooms (Type C)
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