Showering and bathing appliances are those which enable a person with disability to bathe independently or with minimal assistance. Such items include:
- bath seats which allow the person to sit supported in the bath in a raised position
- bath boards which enable a person 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 which provides some resistance to reduce the risk of a person slipping in the bath or shower
- shower chair or stools which allow the person to sit whilst showering.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
If as part of a standard work role a person showers at work or assists others to shower such as in a caring role, consideration should be given regarding provision of appropriate equipment or bathroom access to enable the person with disability to use or assist in the bath or shower.
Consideration should also 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 people with impaired mobility, this should include:
- adequate turning space for a wheelchair user
- adequate door width for access to the bathroom for wheelchair users
- appropriate number of hand rails
- level access shower facilities for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility
- non-slip flooring.
If a person 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 people within the workplace that are disability specific and not something usually provided by an employer can be applied for under the Employment Assistance Scheme. Please refer to the full guidelines to determine eligibility:
Other information that may be useful when considering showering and bathing appliances for people with a disability can be found at the following links:
References
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Hygiene: Bath Seats and Boards, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 24 January 2011, 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.