When designing for Bariatric applications there are a number of important features that need to be considered to ensure both functionality and positive user experience. It’s not as simple as just installing a bigger toilet, considering the humiliating and potentially dangerous consequences it’s important we get the design right.
1. Bariatric Signage – to start with, it’s important to ensure that patients and staff alike can easily locate a Bariatric bathroom within a facility. RBA’s Bariatric Unisex Braille sign is available in both 316 stainless steel and Blue acrylic for this purpose.
2. The Bariatric Toilet – the problem with porcelain is that it is just not strong enough. To avoid injury for both patients and carers, it is essential that the bariatric toilet is capable of withstanding extreme loads. RBA’s Bariatric toilet is fabricated from 1.9mm, type 304 stainless steel and can withstand loads up to 2200kg. The extra-wide design (610mm OD) allows for improved patient comfort and weight distribution while the extra length (800mm long off the wall) ensures patient transfer from a wheelchair is as comfortable and easy as possible. This heavy duty WC is finished in white Enviro-glaze® giving it a clean and modern look suited to any facility. On a side note: the internal diameter (ID) of the toilet is standard size and can be safely used by anyone.
3. The Bariatric Toilet Seat – It is essential that the Bariatric toilet seat is not only strong and stable – it must be comfortable for the user. Rated to over 540kg, RBA’s Big John Toilet seat is stylish and ergonomically designed with a more comfortable opening and a luxuriously contoured sitting surface that is roomier than any other toilet seat on the market. Unique features include:
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85mm higher to improve ease of getting on and off the seat.
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75% greater sitting surface
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Non-slip pads ensuring the seat remains firm on the toilet
- Stainless steel hinges for greater strength
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Grip Rail on side of the seat for increased stability.
4. The Bariatric Grab Rail – Considering the physical difficulties many Bariatric patients face, it is imperative that any Bariatric bathroom includes a strong grab rail to assist patients in getting on and off the toilet. RBA’s Bariatric drop down grab rail is unique in that it is reinforced with a fold out leg to increase the integrity of the unit which can support up to 300Kgs of downward weight. Finally, but very importantly, you can specify a toilet roll holder and/or nurse call button with the grab rail for ease of use. If indeed the user is in a wheel chair, the grab rail can be folded out of the way.
Of course the Bariatric bathroom will also need a basin, tap, soap and paper towel dispenser to wash up.
For more detailed information about Bariatric products, take a look through our Bariatric project/application page!
