In the pursuit of a truly inclusive society, it is a must that public facilities prioritize accessibility for all individuals, including those with disabilities. One area that requires urgent attention is public restrooms, which could do a much better job accommodating the needs of individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. The best way to provide a truly inclusive and accessible restroom experience for all? Universal changing tables. 

A universal changing table provides safe, hygienic, and dignified access to public restrooms for individuals who may not be able to access standard handicapped accessible restrooms. By  installing a powered, height-adjustable universal changing station, businesses and other public facilities send a clear message that they are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible facility for all. 

4 Reasons Why Universal Changing Stations Are Necessary 

1.Tailored Accessibility 

Traditional adult changing tables provide more table space than a baby changing station, but they do still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities who require additional accessibility. Powered, height-adjustable universal changing tables, like Ascent, can be effortlessly raised and lowered to accommodate various needs, ensuring that caregivers and individuals (children, teens, adults, and seniors) with disabilities can comfortably attend to their needs. 

2. Enhancing the Caregiver Experience 

Caregivers of individuals with disabilities face unique challenges. Helping to make their caregiving experience more manageable is crucial. Height-adjustable changing tables not only benefit those with disabilities, but also make it easier for caregivers to provide care with comfort and efficiency. 

3. Ensuring Safety and Dignity 

Safety and dignity are paramount considerations when it comes to restroom use for anyone. Powered changing tables equipped with safety features keep individuals securely positioned during transfers, reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, these tables ensure the person with the disability can get changed and cleaned up with privacy and dignity – a sharp contrast to horror stories about having to get changed on a public restroom floor or in the trunk of the car. 

4. Legal Compliance and Social Responsibility 

In a push for inclusivity and accessibility for all, many states and municipalities have introduced or already enacted legislation that mandates accessibility in public spaces. The International Code Council (ICC) has also approved Code E142-21 for the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), which requires that height adjustable adult changing stations be provided in certain types of public establishments. By installing powered, height-adjustable universal changing tables, businesses and public facilities not only adhere to legal requirements but also demonstrate social responsibility by actively working towards creating an inclusive environment for all. View Foundations’ legislation tracker for the status of legislation at a state and local level. 

5 Features to Look for in a Universal Changing Station 

User-friendly design - both for those with disabilities and their caregivers - is imperative when choosing which universal table is best for your facility. Features like a contoured changing surface provide comfort and support, while a wraparound tray with no sharp edges ensures snag-free loading and unloading. Also keep in mind the location of the control buttons; finding a unit with a set of buttons located on both the front and side of the unit will provide ease-of-use to caregivers and individuals in wheelchairs. 

Cleaning Procedures 

Public facilities demand hygiene, and any changing station should be designed for easy cleaning and maintenance. Look for models with smooth surfaces like vacuum-formed ABS trays, changing surfaces with no extra cracks or crevices, and units that are IPX6 rated, as they allow for the most thorough level of cleaning. 

Enhanced Safety Features 

A lifting side rail is important, but there are more enhanced safety features to look for as well. The Ascent features an innovative automatic retracting feature that stops operation and reverses direction when an obstruction is detected, providing an added element of safety. Keep in mind that units with less cracks and crevices can also reduce pinch points, which is a simple, yet highly appreciated feature. 

Durable Construction 

Due to the high weight limits of most units (for example, Ascent boasts a 500 lb. weight limit), universal changing stations need a robust structure that will provide strength and reliability. Also keep in mind the type of actuator the unit contains. A direct attached actuator ensures a smooth, lag-free experience and superior performance. 

Installation Requirements

Look for a universal changing station that can be integrated into existing facilities without requiring a complete restroom redesign. Units like Ascent can be mounted to any surface in a facility with appropriate space, including concrete, concrete block, wood studs, and metal studs. Also consider the power source required for the operation of the unit; finding a unit that conveniently plugs into a GFCI outlet is a major benefit. Choosing a changing station with a battery backup also ensures safe, continuous use in power outage situations. 

The inclusion of a powered, height-adjustable adult changing table in public restrooms is not just a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental step towards a more inclusive and accessible society. By embracing change, public facilities can not only meet the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities but also send a powerful message of equality and respect, reaffirming the belief that everyone deserves to navigate public spaces with dignity and independence.

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