Showering and bathing appliances are those which enable people with disability to bath independently or with minimal assistance. Such items include:
- bath seats which allow the individual to sit supported in the bath in a raised position
- bath boards which enable an individual to transfer into the bath without stepping over the side
- grab rails which provide support when getting in and out of the shower or bath
- long handled sponges which allow an individual to reach areas such as their back and feet
- non-slip floor matting provides some resistance to reduce the risk of an individual slipping in the bath or shower.
- shower chair/stools which allow the individual to sit whilst showering.
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
If as part of a standard work role an individual showers at work, consideration should be given regarding provision of appropriate equipment or bathroom access to enable an people with disability to use the bath or shower independently.
Consideration should be given to the design of the bathroom and whether it promotes easy access for people with disability. To ensure adequate accessibility for wheelchair users and individuals with impaired mobility, this should include:
- adequate turning space for a wheelchair user
- adequate door width for access to the bathroom for wheelchair users
- level access shower facilities for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility
- non-slip flooring.
If an individual with specialised showering or bathing needs, travels and stays away from home as part of their work role, consideration will need to be given to the availability of appropriate bathroom facilities in accommodation.
Funding for bathroom modifications or equipment required by individuals within the workplace that are disability specific and not something usually provided by an employer can be applied for under the Workplace Modification Scheme. Please refer to the full guidelines to determine eligibility:
(Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007; Standards Australia International 2001).
Relevant Links:
References:
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Hygiene: Bath Seats and Boards, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 7 April 2008, <http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search3.asp?State=NSW&MC=11&MinC=4>.
Standards Australian International 2001, Design for Access and Mobility: Part 1: General Requirements for Access – New Building Work, Standards Australia International Ltd., Sydney.