The National roll out of Changing Places Toilets is underway with the introduction of New Legislation to include Changing Place Toilet (CPT) in all new buildings of certain sizes as a requirement of Part M Building Regulation. If you would like to install a CPT or have an existing CPT please click on the following links for up-to-date information and advice.
Part M (Access & Use) Building Regulations
A Changing Place Toilet must be designed correctly from the outset to ensure it is fully usable and compliant. From a user perspective, layout and space are just as important as the equipment itself.
This guide focuses on what to look for in layout and technical drawings, helping ensure that facilities are practical, safe and truly accessible.
Why Layout Matters (user prespective)
A CPT can include all the right equipment but if the layout is wrong, it may be impossible to use.
Good layout ensures:
- Safe wheelchair manoeuvring
- Space for one or two carers
- Safe use of hoists and bench
- Dignity and privacy during use
Poor layout can result in:
- Inability to transfer safely
- Restricted access to equipment
- Increased risk of injury
Design and Installation
The design and installation of a CPT should meet the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations and universal design approach.
Careful planning and design should ensure that approach routes leading to the CPT accommodate a wide range of users. A clear unobstructed space of 1800mm by 1800mm minimum should be provided directly outside the door to the CPT.
The minimum overall dimensions and arrangement of equipment, circulation spaces, grab rails and other fittings within a CPT can be seen in the diagram below.
As you can see from the diagram above the following equipment and minimum measurements must be achieved to fully comply with current building regulations and receive the Changing Place Ireland logo.
- Size and space: minimum 4200mm by 3000mm
- Automatic doors should be provided where possible with a minimum door width of 1000mm to accommodate large powered wheelchairs.
- A clear 900mm space on either side of the toilet to allow for 2 carers
- A wall-mounted height adjustable adult sized changing bench with a minimum surface of 1800mm in length by 800mm wide and a minimum weight capacity of 200kg. An alternative free standing bench with the same measurements is an alternative in some locations.
- To cater for both standing and seated users, an adjustable washbasin should be provided with a height range of 600mm to 850mm above floor level with the knee recess free from any obstructions. The washbasin minimum measurements of 500mm wide by 450mm deep is required.
- A continuous charging full-ceiling coverage track hoist should be provided with a safe working load of not less than 200kg. A minimum clear ceiling height of 2400mm with a clear headroom between the hoist track/rails and the floor level should be no less than 2100mm.
- Either a wall mounted or free standing privacy screen with an extended length of not less than 1750mm is required.
- Waste Disposal bins: two bins should be provided; one for general refuse and one of sanitary/offensive waste.
- Grab rails should be provided on both sides of the washbasin. Both drop down and grab rails should be provided on both sides of the toilet.
- Colostomy shelf should be provided near the WC and another shelf near the changing bench to allow users reach items needed for hygiene care.
- A minimum of two clothing hooks should be provided.
- Two emergency pull cords should be provided and positioned to avoid obstructing the operation of the overhead hoist.
- A shower is an added feature and not compulsory.
Access & Usability
The preferred option is that all CPTs are unlocked so that disabled people can easily gain access to a CPT without having to overcome complex security arrangements or depend on staff to open a facility.
Where a CPT is locked for security reasons the preferred method of entry is with a RADAR key as it provides a standardised, cross-county solution, allowing consistent and straightforward access. RADAR keys are also widely used in neighbouring countries, making access easier for visitors to Ireland who are already familiar with the system and they are readily available from recognised suppliers.
Should an installer/venue decide to use an alternative access method such as intercom, fob, keypads, Abloy Keys the following instructions should be in place.
- A management plan to ensure CPTs are opened on request by a user immediately
- Staff training
- Door signage explaining how to request entry
- Complementary keys made available
- Gather feedback from users to ensure preferred methods of access
Contact Us
If you need any further informations please email changingplacesireland@gmail.com and we will be happy to assist you.