7.5.1 Wall Mounted Changing Bench
The minimum provisions of TGD M 2022 require a wall-mounted adult-sized, height-adjustable, changing bench[1], with a clear unobstructed circulation space in front of the changing bench as per Figure 2 and Figure 5.
The height-adjustable changing bench should have a changing surface which is a minimum of 1800mm in length by 800mm wide with a minimum certified weight capacity of 200kg. The height adjustment mechanism for wall-mounted benches should be mains powered and include a pressure sensitive safety override that will prevent the changing bench from lowering if there is any obstruction underneath.
The changing bench should have a minimum range of height adjustment from 450mm to 900mm above floor level.
It should have retractable side safety rails along the long edge(s) that can be folded up or down. Instructions should be provided on how to adjust the rails and the height of the changing bench.
Where a shower facility is being provided, a suitable changing bench should be provided with provision for wastewater disposal.
A vertical grab rail should be provided 150mm from the front edge of the changing bench at the available wall side as per Figure 5.
Changing bench material should be comfortable, easily wipeable and non-porous to support infection control. For example, some changing benches are padded for cushioning effect and some products have adjustable surfaces/inclined backs to prop a person’s head and/or back on the bench which can assist with dressing.
Downlighters are not to be fitted directly above the last 600mm of the head or foot of the changing bench.
Providing a wall-mounted changing bench will ensure that the bench cannot be removed from the Changing Places Toilet and will be the most suitable option in most public buildings.
7.5.2 Freestanding Changing Bench
A freestanding bench can be moved and enables a user to be assisted by two or more people either side of the bench, whereas a wall-hung bench enables people to be assisted on one side of the bench only. In some cases, for example in a day centre with staff who are familiar with the equipment, a freestanding changing bench may be preferred to a wall-mounted version. Providing a freestanding changing bench should be informed by stakeholder engagement and consultation with end-users.
A freestanding changing bench, in lieu of a wall-mounted changing bench, will not prima facie, indicate compliance with Part M of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations (as amended).
Figure 5 Changing Places Toilet Changing Bench and Fittings
Key
A. Vertical grabrail ∅ diameter 35mm
B. Personal belongings shelf
C. Alarm pull cord ●
D. Privacy screen
E. Height-adjustable changing bench
F. Wide paper roll dispenser
G. Optional showering unit with minimum 2,000mm hose
H. Floor drain (when showering unit is provided)
Note: All dimensions in millimetres.
Image 7 Example of a wall-mounted height-adjustable changing bench.
Image 8 A person using a hoist, being transferred onto a wall-hung changing bench by two assistants.
