Accessible toilet dimensions: What's important for safe and comfortable use

Accessible toilets enable people with physical disabilities to have greater independence and safety in their daily lives. But what exactly constitutes an accessible toilet, and what should be considered during planning, construction, or retrofitting? Factors such as size and depth, seat surface and height, back support, grab bars, and toilet paper holders play a crucial role. In this article, we provide an overview of the correct dimensions—from maneuvering space and grab bar positions to seat height—and highlight what planners and builders should pay particular attention to. Because proper planning means accessibility for everyone. And Armatron makes this possible!

Accessible toilet: Dimensions and requirements for greater inclusion

Accessible toilets are a key component of modern, inclusive sanitary facilities – both in public areas and private homes. The correct dimensions are crucial to enable safe and independent use for people with physical limitations. Therefore, suitable solutions are essential – especially regarding functionality, user-friendliness, freedom of movement, and comfort. Armatron offers precisely that: Our accessible toilet models meet the highest quality standards and can be individually integrated into existing building structures. Furthermore, we always ensure compliance with binding norms and standards for prescribed maneuvering areas, reach heights, and equipment details applicable in Switzerland. This includes, among others, the SIA 500 standard for barrier-free buildings. In this way, we not only create legal certainty but also enable long-term, future-proof equipment for your sanitary facilities – from new construction to retrofitting.

What regulations apply and what do you need to consider?

For a toilet to be considered truly accessible, very specific dimensional requirements must be met. The Swiss standard SIA 500, for example, stipulates a minimum depth of 70 cm for the toilet bowl – ensuring that people with disabilities or wheelchair users have enough space to use the toilet without restrictions. Depending on usage, the lateral maneuvering areas should be at least 95 cm wide on both sides. The recommended seat height, measured from the floor, is 46-48 cm, which facilitates safe transfers from a wheelchair to the toilet. Toilet paper holders must be mounted within the lateral reach zone next to the toilet, ideally in conjunction with a grab bar , which, like the toilet flush and flush mechanism, must be ergonomically designed and implemented. This ensures safe and independent access. The correct placement is also crucial: the holder must be installed on the side opposite the transfer point. Furthermore, a space of at least 120 x 120 cm should be available in front of the toilet to allow for maneuvering with a walker or wheelchair. Furthermore, it is also advisable to consider access to the toilet, for example by using wider doors and threshold-free transitions.

Our experts at Armatron are happy to advise you on the individual implementation of your renovation or new construction projects, offer tips, and provide you with tailor-made products and solutions that are compliant with standards, high-quality, and aesthetically pleasing. If you need more information, please contact us directly.

The most important points summarized again briefly:

• • Seat height: 46-48 cm
  • Toilet bowl depth: min. 70 cm
  • Lateral movement space: at least 95 cm left and right (for transfers from the side)
  • Front movement area: min. 120×120 cm
  • Side grab handles: foldable, height 75 cm (upper part of the handle)
  • Distance between the handrails: 65-70cm
  • Controls (e.g., flush): easily accessible while seated, maximum height 120 cm

Planning principles: the SIA 500 standard

This standard defines the key requirements for barrier-free construction in Switzerland and thus also specifies the correct dimensions for accessible toilets. Furthermore, it applies not only to public buildings but also serves as an essential basis for private residential construction, especially for future-oriented usage concepts. Particular attention must be paid to the maneuvering space around the toilet, which should ensure free access, reach of all components, and the correct positioning of assistive devices such as backrests. The goal is to enable people with mobility impairments to use the toilet independently. Anyone planning for or required to implement barrier-free design should therefore first check whether the structural conditions, such as suitable room size, door widths, and installation heights, meet the respective requirements.

Good to know: In Germany, the standard DIN 18040-1 applies, which is not officially used in Switzerland, although it is often used as a guideline in professional circles. Swiss planners and architects must generally adhere to SIA 500, as it is binding for barrier-free construction and building projects requiring a building permit. The German standard differs from the Swiss specifications in some areas, usually prescribing slightly smaller dimensions. Furthermore, in Switzerland, there is a stronger focus on lateral transfer areas and wheelchair accessibility in the bathroom.

More than standard: Individual solutions for individual requirements

Whether it's a renovation, conversion, retrofit, or a completely new build – whether in existing buildings, hotels, public facilities, for residents of care homes, or in private residences – every construction situation presents its own unique challenges. That's why, when needed, it's crucial to rely on individually tailored concepts rather than off-the-shelf products and sanitary solutions. For those who want to be absolutely certain about accessible toilets and restroom facilities, we offer toilet systems with versatile equipment options and full accessibility. Armatron is the perfect partner, as we integrate different heights, depths, grab bars, and flushing mechanisms – always precisely as the environment and your requirements demand. Our accessible sanitary solutions are born from a clear understanding of our customers' needs. This is how we develop products that truly improve the daily lives of people with limited mobility.

Why Armatron?

Our accessible toilets offer users not only safety and independence, but also impress with their first-class construction and manufacturing, high-quality materials, and elegant design. We also offer a wide variety of models: stainless steel and easy-to-clean surfaces ensure exceptional durability and simple maintenance. Models such as the floor-standing 700 P toilet with an extended bowl or the wall-hung 700 S toilet were specifically developed for accessibility requirements and meet both functional and aesthetic demands at the highest level. Armatron stands for a strong commitment to quality – from the initial planning stages to the selection of the perfect fixtures. Our toilet solutions are not only tailored to current needs, but can also be flexibly integrated into future bathroom concepts. Solutions that stand the test of time – always state-of-the-art, reliable in application and function, and consistently stylish. Trust in our experience, our expertise, and our passion – for an accessible bathroom or toilet that gives people the space they truly need.