Restaurants are required to provide handicap-accessible restrooms.
It is essential that restroom facilities be provided in restaurants that offer any type of dining, with the exception of strictly take-out establishments. The number of restrooms required is determined by the final occupancy count of the restaurant. Both male and female restroom facilities must be provided, and large restaurants with an occupancy of over 300 might be required to provide a unisex family restroom as well. Restroom requirements are subject to change between different states; however, all are mandated to follow the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.
Vanity Areas
Vanity areas in restaurant restrooms must follow the ADA specifications. The mirrors most be hung no higher than 40 inches from the floor. The sinks must be lever-operated, electronically-controlled, a push-type or another acceptable faucet design. Faucets equipped with self-closing valves should allow a minimum of 10 seconds before they self-close.
Toilet Stalls
According to ADA, toilet stalls in restaurant restrooms must meet several requirements. They must be accessible through a safe route with at least one of the toilets being handicap-accessible with grab bars. The minimum depth of a bathroom stall should be 56 inches, with a minimum width of 32 inches and a 90 degree angle for the door. A standard bathroom toilet stall should be a minimum of 9 inches off the floor on at least one partition side of the stall to meet specified toe clearance.
Urinals
All restaurant bathrooms for males must provide urinals placed at maximum height of 17 inches from the ground. These should be mounted on the wall or placed in individual stalls. The water valve should be no more 44 inches from the ground, with a floor space of at least 30 by 48 inches.
Other Requirements
To minimize the risk of restaurant customers getting scalded or even burned, be sure all water pipes are enclosed or insulated. Bathrooms must be kept clean and have toilet paper, hand-washing soap, a hand-drying machine or paper towels, and trash receptacles. Plumbing plans will need to be approved by a licensed plumber. All bathrooms must be equipped with an adequate exhaust vent. Foot traffic areas in the restroom must be kept clear of any obstructions to allow customers easy and safe access.
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