Whether you're maintaining or updating an existing commercial bathroom or designing and installing a new one, one of the most used rooms in the building deserves your attention.
What To Consider When Planning and Designing
We'll outline what elements you need to consider for creating a modern, easily maintainable, and sustainably designed bathroom, as well as the fixtures, equipment, and supplies to make it a reality.
It's important to consider several crucial factors to ensure a seamless and functional space when embarking on the journey to upgrade or build a new restroom. First and foremost, establishing a budget is paramount for guiding decision-making throughout the process.
To make the most of your available space, carefully examine the floor plan and strategize to maximize utility. Moreover, consider the ebb and flow of people during peak and off-peak hours to optimize traffic within the restroom.
In today's environmentally conscious era, sustainability takes center stage. Consider opting for energy-efficient toilets and sinks, touch sensor faucets, energy-efficient lighting, and sustainable building materials to minimize environmental impact.
Prioritize ease of maintenance with designs emphasizing cleanliness and factor in air filtration and venting to enhance overall air quality. While not directly sold, incorporating connected tech for maintenance reminders and supply replenishment can be a valuable addition which brings us to compliance guidelines. Hot tip. Review guidelines and meet guidelines before any work begins. These are the ones you need to consider.
ADA Compliance
In creating a restroom that prioritizes accessibility, it is imperative to ensure ADA compliance, addressing the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities.
ASHRAE Guidelines
Verify that the HVAC system meets or exceeds the ventilation rate guidelines as recommended by ASHRAE, the building engineering organization, in its publications on indoor air quality, specifically ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1 and 62.2. In response to the pandemic, ASHRAE also suggested that facility managers should keep restroom ventilation fans running continuously and ensure the closure of bathroom windows.
OSHA Guidelines
To ensure compliance with OSHA requirements in commercial buildings, it's crucial to understand the regulations regarding the number of commercial toilets in your facility. The guidelines for businesses are as follows:
- 1-15 employees, one bathroom is required
- 16-35 employees, two bathrooms are necessary
- 36-55 employees mandate three bathrooms
- 56-80 employees call for four bathrooms
- 81-110 employees necessitate five bathrooms
- 111-150 employees need six bathrooms
- 151 or more employees require an additional bathroom for every 40 additional employees
It's important to note that these regulations distinguish between closets, stalls, and partitions, so businesses must ensure that the facilities provided meet the specific OSHA requirements for their employee count.
Fixtures, Bathroom Supplies, and Equipment
Now, we're going to delve into the essential elements that define the functionality and aesthetics of a restroom. From selecting the right fixtures to ensuring a steady supply of replenishable items and investing in efficient equipment, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through the key considerations to create a restroom that seamlessly balances form and function.
Floor Tiles
Selecting the right floor tiles is crucial for restroom durability and aesthetics. Opt for non-slip and easy-to-clean tiles, considering style and functionality to create a safe and visually appealing space.
Partitions, Stalls, and Doors
Privacy and comfort with well-constructed partitions, stalls, and doors is crucial. Choose durable materials that withstand high traffic and consider designs that align with the overall restroom aesthetic while providing privacy and security.
Toilets and Urinals
Invest in water-efficient toilets and urinals for sustainable water usage. Consider comfort and ease of maintenance and choose models with efficient flushing systems to enhance restroom efficiency or models with toilet seat covers for more traditional office spaces.
Soap Dispensers
Prioritize hygiene by opting for touchless soap dispensers. Choose models with easy refill options, promoting cleanliness and reducing the risk of germ transmission in high-traffic restrooms.
Exhaust Fans
Ensure proper ventilation by installing efficient exhaust fans. Adequate ventilation helps mitigate odors and maintain air quality, providing a comfortable and hygienic restroom environment.
Mats
Consider anti-slip mats for safety, especially in areas prone to wetness. Choose mats that are easy to clean and replace, enhancing safety and cleanliness.
Floor Machines and Scrubbers
Select floor machines and scrubbers designed explicitly for bathroom use. These should efficiently remove grime and maintain cleanliness without damaging restroom surfaces.
Mops, Carts, and Brooms
Equip your restroom with the right janitorial tools. Utilize high-quality mops, carts, and brooms for restroom maintenance to streamline the cleaning process and ensure optimal hygiene.
Air Fresheners
Enhance the user experience by incorporating effective air fresheners. Choose options that neutralize odors and create a pleasant atmosphere, promoting a positive restroom experience for all users.
Paper Supplies
When stocking up on paper supplies, consider the restroom's traffic and opt for quality toilet paper and hand towels that balance softness and durability. Look for environmentally friendly options to align with sustainability goals and ensure a constant supply to meet user needs.
Cleaning Supplies
Selecting the right cleaning supplies is pivotal for maintaining a hygienic restroom. Invest in effective cleaners, paper products, and soap to combat germs and bacteria. Choose products with antibacterial properties and eco-friendly formulations for an efficient and environmentally conscious cleaning routine.
Urinal Screens and Deodorizers
Enhance restroom freshness by choosing effective urinal screens and deodorizers. Opt for long-lasting deodorizing solutions that neutralize odors and maintain a pleasant atmosphere. Urinal screens with built-in deodorizing features add an extra layer of freshness and contribute to a positive restroom experience.
In Conclusion
Creating the ideal restroom involves considering various elements, from practical fixtures to sustainable choices and bathroom decor ideas. Your facility's restrooms can become a welcoming and efficient space by prioritizing user comfort, hygiene, and compliance with relevant regulations. Armed with the insights from this buying guide, you are well-equipped to transform your facility's restrooms into functional and user-friendly environments.
Global Industrial Is Your Restroom Remodel and Renovation Partner
As a dedicated part and solutions expert, Global Industrial can review any facility or workplace to help you determine how to update, renovate, or rehab any bathroom designs for your business. Learn more about how we can help ensure your restrooms are up to date and up to code by connecting with one of our Global Industrial sales representatives at 888.978.7759 or contacting us here.
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