Code of Massachusetts Regulations
521 CMR - Architectural Access Board
Title 521 CMR 31 - BATHING ROOMS
Section 31.9 - BATHTUBS

Universal Citation: 521 CMR 31 MA Code of Regs 31.9

Current through Register 1518, March 29, 2024

Accessible bathtubs shall comply with the following:

31.9.1 Clear floor space: Clear floor space in front of bathtubs shall be as shown in Fig. 31e and 31f.

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31.9.2 Seat: A removable in-tub seat or a built-in seat at the head end of the tub shall be provided as shown in Fig. 31g, and 31h. Seats shall be mounted securely and shall not slip during use. The structural strength of seats and their attachments shall comply with the definition of structural strength in 521 CMR 5, DEFINITIONS.

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31.9.3 Grab Bars: Grab bars shall be provided as shown in Fig. 31g and h.

a. The top grab bar shall be placed horizontally between 33 and 36 inches (33" = 838mm and 36" = 914mm) above the floor line and the lower grab bar shall be placed approximately 15 inches (15" = 381mm) below the top grab bar.

b. The structural strength of grab bars and their attachments shall comply with the definition of structural strength in 521 CMR 5.00: DEFINITIONS.

c. Grab bars shall be between 1¼ inches to 1½ inches (1¼" to 1½" = 32mm to 38mm) in outside diameter, have a 1½ inch (1½" = 38mm) clearance between the bar and the wall. See Fig. 30f.

d. Grab bars shall also be non-rusting and acid-etched or roughened.

31.9.4 Controls: In bathtubs with built in seats, controls shall be mounted on the short wall opposite the built in seat.

31.9.5 Shower spray unit: A shower spray unit with a hose at least 60 inches (60" = 1524mm) long that can be used both as a fixed shower head and as a hand-held shower shall be provided.

31.9.6 Soap trays shall not incorporate hand hold features unless they can support 250 pounds for five minutes.

31.9.7 Bathtub Enclosures: If provided, enclosures for bathtubs shall not obstruct controls or transfer from wheelchairs onto bathtub seats or into tubs. Enclosures on bathtubs shall not have tracks mounted on the rim of the bathtub.

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