Bathroom ergonomics
Ergonomics is the science that studies the interaction between man and machine, man and equipment. An ergonomic interior is one that has been designed to ensure maximum human safety and create conditions that maximize comfort and productivity while minimizing the need for effort and possible discomfort. Ergonomics is especially important in home spaces such as the kitchen, bathroom, office and gym. We talked about how to create an ergonomic kitchen space in the article “Kitchen Ergonomics” . This time we will talk about bathroom ergonomics.
Ergonomic requirements should be taken into account when planning the location of all bathroom elements, including washbasins, lamps, bathroom furniture and even a towel hook.
Dimensions and distances
To make visiting the bathroom comfortable, it is important to adhere to certain standards for the height of the installed toilet and the optimal distance between plumbing fixtures.
One of the most important indicators is the distance from the wall. If the toilet and bath are separate, then it is worth considering the following standards:
- The room intended for the toilet must be at least 0.8 * 1.2 m.
- The height of the bowl of the product must be at least 40 cm, while the height of the barrel is 81.5 cm, and the height of the drain pipe is 18.5 cm.
- If a bidet or washbasin is also installed in the room, the distance from the extreme point on the bowl to the middle axis of the bidet bowl should be at least 38 cm; the ideal distance is considered to be 45 cm.
- The distance between the wall and the middle axis of the bowl is at least 40 cm; for maximum comfort, it is recommended to install the product at a distance of 45 cm.
- For comfortable use, maintain at least 60-65 cm of free space in front of the product.
For a mixed bathroom, it is important to consider the location of all plumbing. For maximum convenience when using the bathroom, the minimum gap between its elements:
- The distance between the toilet and the sink is at least 20 cm.
- Ideally, the distance from the shower or bathtub should be at least 90 cm.
- From the toilet to the bidet - 30 cm.
In addition, when remodeling a bathroom, you need to place the plumbing fixtures at a distance from the riser that is suitable for its optimal operation. Increasing the distance between the pipes and the toilet can cause the water seal to fail.
Standard toilet sizes
Depending on the type of structure, it may have different dimensions:
- Floor. The compact toilet, which has a special shelf for the tank, has dimensions: Length - 610-645 mm; Bowl (width) - 345 and more; Height 370-395 mm. Plumbing without a shelf: Length - 435-460 mm; Width - 360 mm; height - 355-390mm.
- Suspension. Length - 470-700 mm; Width - 355-375 mm; height - max. 395 mm. In this case, the installation height can be adjusted independently.
- For children. Its length is 460-550 mm; width - 290-320 mm; height - 260-350 mm.
Minimum and maximum parameters
According to the ergonomic features of toilets, there is a set of rules according to which their installation can be carried out. Very often, installation is carried out not in a separate room reserved for the toilet, but in a shared bathroom with a sink and shower. If you do not take into account the installation rules, you may encounter problems in the sanitary system.
Distance between toilet and sink
The toilet should be installed at a distance of 20 cm from the sink and further. When installing plumbing fixtures in a complex, you should take into account that the bathtub and shower stall are located at the same distance. When double sinks are installed, there should be at least 40 cm between them. The bidet (or hygienic shower), on the contrary, is located next to the toilet - the optimal distance is no more than 30 cm. This means the distance from edge to edge.
Distance from water supply
This indicator is calculated based on the type of toilet plumbing. With a typical installation method, it should be located at a distance of 18 cm from the water supply. The indicated parameter provides the distance from the center of the pipe to the top of the floor covering. If the toilet is installed through installation (a method in which the flush tank is built into the wall), the distance from the top of the floor covering to the turbine axis should be 23 centimeters.
Minimum distance to wall
According to the current SNiP standards, this distance to the walls is established in relation to the position of the toilet.
- From 53 to 76 cm - to the front, located frontally, or to the wall with the door, if we talk about a small toilet, the shortest distance is 53 cm. This is enough to not experience tightness in the knee area.
- The maximum sufficient distance from the front wall located in front of the seated person is 76 cm.
- From the middle of the toilet to the walls on the side, the accepted minimum is 40-45 cm. In some sources, the distance to the side walls is set at 38 cm.
The indicated standards are relevant for a separate room. It is advisable to carry out installation near the wall - both in a separate room and in a combined bathroom. Some users believe that the closer the toilet is located to the wall, the more comfort and convenience it will provide. However, plumbers do not recommend using this method, as it will subsequently make access to communications more difficult.
For practicality and comfort in servicing the toilet, it is recommended to install it in such a way that the flush tank is located at a distance of 5-10 cm from the wall.
The distance between the toilet and the riser is limited; the limiting factor is the slope angle, which should be 2-3 centimeters per meter of pipe. There are no regulations governing the maximum distance. However, the longer the sewer pipeline, the greater the risk that a gap will form during use. For example, with a 4-meter length, the height of the toilet base will need to be raised by 8 cm.
Installation dimensions
Depending on the model and manufacturer of the product, its dimensions will also change. If you are planning another bathroom remodel in the future, it is recommended to install a toilet with an oblique projection. This will make it more mobile. In addition, to avoid difficulties, you must adhere to the following standards:
- If you have chosen a device with a horizontal outlet and started installing the toilet, then there should be a distance of 18 cm from the floor to the sewer outlet, and 20 cm for an oblique outlet.
- The dimensions of the opening for installing a toilet are also important. From the sides from the structure to the wall, at least 30 cm is maintained.
- The water pipe should be at a minimum distance for comfortable connection of a flexible hose to the tank.
What is the size of the installation box?
Frame products have the following dimensions: height: 80–140 cm; width: 50–60 cm; depth: 15–30 cm.
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Classification of toilets by type of installation
This product can also be divided into two categories, depending on the installation method: floor-standing and hanging. Floor-mounted ones, in turn, are divided into subcategories: wall-mounted and simple.
Floor-standing
This is the most common type of toilet. It is characterized by ease of installation and low cost. Typically, floor-mounted structures are installed in a more or less spacious room; for a room with a small area, a wall-mounted option (compact flush system) is more suitable.
Installing plumbing fixtures using anchor bolts does not require much time. The advantage of this type is that the floor covering does not suffer during installation.
Hanging
This type of toilet is installed in small rooms and saves a lot of space. The toilet mount can withstand a load of up to 400 kg, but there are models that can withstand more.
When installing, the device bowl is attached directly to the wall, at a certain distance from the floor. It is secured using either a frame or block method. To save space, sometimes such a toilet is installed in a special niche in the wall.
Calculation of toilet dimensions
Before installing plumbing fixtures, you need to choose a model that is suitable in size. It is recommended to focus on the largest family member and choose the appropriate option. If he is comfortable, everyone else will be comfortable using it too.
Questions on the topic
After reading the description of the design of a wall-hung toilet with installation, many potential buyers express interest in the following points:
About strength and reliability
How reliable is this method of attaching the toilet and will it collapse under a larger user? All components of the system - toilet, installation, fastening - are usually designed for a load of at least 400 kg. On the Internet you can find descriptions of models for which this parameter is even 800 kg - this would be the envy of a regular floor-standing toilet.
We won’t teach you how to “pull apart the walls”, but we will tell you how to properly manage the available space
PROBLEM 1: It’s uncomfortable to wash
Place the bathtub against a short wall
If the length of the short wall of the bathroom is 160 cm or more, it is more logical to place the bath along it. With this arrangement, you will not only have a comfortable bathroom, but even an elongated rectangular bathroom will seem more proportional.
Fact:
Placing a bathtub along the long wall of a narrow room is not the best option. The room will seem like a pencil case.
PROBLEM 2:
It is difficult for an elderly person to get in and out.
Hang handrails
A safe, ergonomic and comfortable bathroom is unthinkable without grab bars to help you get out of the bathtub or shower. They are needed primarily in the bathrooms of apartments where elderly people or children live. It is convenient to place such a handrail at the waist level of the user standing in the bathtub: for a person of average height this is approximately 100 cm.
Find a barrel bath
It is believed that if there is no space for a bath, you need a cabin, and it can be organized in any area. In fact, this is “self-deception”: you can wash comfortably in a 90 cm font (pictured), the question is what kind it is. The same is true with a shower stall: you can arrange it even in a small space, but it will be inconvenient to wash in a cabin measuring less than 90 cm. What is better: installing a bathtub or a cabin if there is not enough space - everyone decides for himself.
PROBLEM 3: Distance in front of the toilet
For typical small-sized housing, this is a pressing issue: the toilet space is so small that, sitting on the toilet seat, you rest your head against the door. Is it possible to somehow increase the distance from the toilet to the door without remodeling by adding a hallway? Yes, but it all depends on your plans for renovation.
Find a compact toilet
If you have a typical separate toilet and do not intend to combine it with a bathroom, consider replacing the toilet. The distance from the toilet to the wall with the riser depends on two factors: the dimensions of the model and the type of its outlet (the angle of attachment of the pipe with the riser). If you find the same monoblock, but with a seat of less depth, you will gain 5–7 cm. Sometimes this is critical.
Distance from wall to toilet: optimal bathroom layout
When renovating a toilet and bathroom when replacing plumbing fixtures, the problem of proper bathroom layout arises. One of the most important convenience parameters is the distance between the wall and the toilet, since if it is chosen incorrectly, using the device will be uncomfortable.
We will look at the regulatory requirements and find out what basic distances are determined by the instructions.
A wall-mounted toilet should be installed in accordance with minimum or optimal convenience standards.
Photos with successful layout examples
A modern bathroom is equipped with various household appliances, furniture and accessories. In order for them to harmonize with each other, you must adhere to the same style when choosing. You can create a project yourself or together with a designer.
Photos of successful bathroom layouts confirm that with the right approach, even a small room can be made cozy and practical.
Bathroom remodeling
Separate toilet location
In the case of a separate bathroom, the layout is somewhat simpler.
Let's start with a simpler case, when the toilet is separated from the bathroom. It is simpler because in such a toilet, as a rule, there is one device. A bidet can be added to the maximum configuration if the size of the room allows.
We will immediately announce the standards for the distance from the wall to the toilet adopted in SNiP 2.08.01-89* “Residential buildings”:
- The minimum dimensions of the toilet room are 800 mm width and 1200 mm length . In this case, the average dimensions of the compact are taken to be 650 mm in length and 350 mm in width;
- According to the standard, the height of the toilet bowl should be 400 mm, the height of the tank should be 815 mm, the height of the drain pipe should be 185 mm;
- If a bidet is installed in the room, then the gap from the edge of the compact bowl to the middle axis of the bidet bowl should be at least 380 mm, and for maximum comfort - at least 450 mm. The same standards apply if there is a washbasin nearby;
- The minimum distance from the toilet to the wall located in the front (front) must be at least 530 mm, and for maximum comfort - at least 760 mm;
- The space from the middle axis of the bowl to the side wall is at least 400 mm, for optimal operation mode - at least 450 mm.
Minimum distance from the toilet to the wall: norms on the side, between the center and the edge
The minimum distance from the toilet to the wall is a parameter determined by SNiP 2.08.01-89 “Residential Buildings”. SNiP are building codes and regulations developed back in Soviet times. But the distance from the wall to the toilet is not just the distance dictated by SNiP or GOST, because there are some standards in the production of building parts and plumbing equipment. These are documented optimal parameters obtained in a reliable way.
Moving the toilet - possible risks
This type of work is associated with significant risks that the owners take on:
- increasing the length of water pipes leading to the toilet;
- increased likelihood of blockages;
- change in pipeline slope;
- the appearance of right angles in the water supply system;
- violation of standards.
Even if the toilet is moved close to the wall, it must be taken into account that an increase in the piping system leading to this equipment can lead to problems. For example, when flushing water, a vacuum is formed, which will lead to the breakdown of the water seal in all plumbing located near the equipment. The process is accompanied by loud gurgles and unpleasant odors.
For the same reason, blockages appear. After all, the pipe leading to the toilet has increased in length. This creates conditions for a greater concentration of sewage. To avoid these phenomena, it is necessary to comply with the requirements of SNiP (building codes and regulations). With this approach, you will not only reduce the likelihood of breakdowns to a minimum, but also save your health and money.
When calculating the required pipeline slope, you should take into account the standard, which states that for all elements with a diameter of 100 mm, the presented indicator must be at least 2 cm per meter. If there are parts with a diameter of 50 mm, laying should take place at a minimum slope of 3 cm per meter.
A reduced slope value slows down the movement of wastewater and provokes the formation of stagnation of sewage in the pipeline.
A large slope is also undesirable. In this case, water will flow at an increased speed, which will lead to the appearance of solid contaminants. The gradual accumulation of such formations will increasingly impede the flow of water, leading to clogging of the pipeline.
Compliance with SNiP is a key factor in the success of relocating a toilet. But when transferred by more than 1.5 m, these recommendations cannot be taken into account. If there is such a task, it is necessary to install forced sewerage. This is also true at a shorter distance, if there is no desire or opportunity to work on adjusting the slope and installing additional pipes.
SNiP norms 2.08.01-89
Until recently, the Russian Federation mainly used the standards of the Soviet state, which paid great attention to the construction, industrial, epidemiological and occupational safety of its citizens.
Recognizing the appropriateness of the data presented in these documents, obtained not just empirically, but also on the basis of scientific research, the norms and rules were still used at the level of recommendations.
Over time, the need for the existence of such norms of a legislative nature was discovered.
The court took them into account when resolving disputes, but could also ignore them.
The creation of a state register of regulatory recommendations, norms and rules, as well as methodological guidelines led to the fact that the developed norms and rules in the field of construction, production and the national economy acquired the status of official and legally enshrined. The main condition for acceptance was compliance with the norms of Russian law.
Sanitary and hygienic standards (SanPiN) are not only not outdated, but have become even more relevant due to the deteriorating epidemiological and environmental situation. None of the adopted sets of rules, according to the laws of the Russian Federation and regulations of the Ministry of Health, should conflict with the standards of sanitation and hygiene.
Distance norms
The distance of the toilet bowl from the side wall is the norm dictated by SanPiN for the normal implementation of treatment with disinfectants or disinfectants in areas of potential danger of contamination by pathogenic agents.
This piece of plumbing must be kept in perfect cleanliness; the edge of the toilet bowl is especially carefully disinfected. This is especially true if there are small children in the family. The wall close to the toilet and the floor in the room are also treated. But if the minimum specified parameter is not met, it will be problematic to carry out the necessary procedures.
Gosstandart dictates installation standards, because they have already been determined and verified as optimal and convenient sizes, distances and distances. If you adhere to the standards, you can avoid possible negative consequences.
The distance from the wall when installing the toilet, as well as the parameters of the toilet itself, are aimed at human convenience, creating optimal conditions for a comfortable, hygienic and safe discharge of natural needs.
Recommendations
There are factors why it is worth observing the standards for the location of the toilet even in non-standard rooms. Among the main reasons are the following:
- standardized parameters of the shape and size of household items that are installed in the bathroom or near the toilet (if combined);
- availability of optimal options for the location of sewer drainage node connections;
- fixed dimensions and shape of plumbing components;
- Features of toilet installation technology.
Household items that may be located near the toilet (sink, sink with cabinet, washing machine, dryer and others) are manufactured according to a single range of standards. The overall dimensions of the toilets also correspond to them. This means that non-compliance with GOSTs that determine the distance for installation may lead to a violation of ease of use in the use of all household items for complex purposes.
Regardless of the characteristics of the room, there are standards that determine the best result of using the toilet. What matters is the angle of inclination at which the drain and its inlet socket are located. Even if the room is not built according to a standard design, the value of this slope remains unchanged.
To comply with this requirement, it is necessary to place the toilet at the optimal distance from the sewer inlet. Placing it too close will make it difficult to flush. Positioning too far apart may result in subsequent deflection of the corrugated connector. As a result, under the influence of deformation, leaks may appear in the area of the connections of the corrugations and sockets.
Plumbing components are manufactured according to uniform standards.
This fact should be taken into account when choosing the location of the toilet. Incorrect selection of the distance may make it impossible to use some plumbing fixtures. For example, placing the housing too close to the shut-off valve may interfere with the operating stroke of its lever, which will lead to the impossibility of shutting off the water supply.
The toilet is installed on a vertical support, which has 2 or 4 holes for fasteners. Before installation, it is necessary to mark these fasteners. To do this, the device is installed at its final location. Marks are made through the mounting holes on the floor. If the toilet is located too close to the wall, marking will be extremely difficult.
To install fasteners, holes are drilled in the floor in accordance with the markings. After placing the toilet in place, fasteners are inserted into the holes - bolts or dowel-nails. Screwing in these fasteners will also be difficult if the toilet is located too close to the wall or other furnishings.
In the next video you will learn important nuances that need to be taken into account when installing a toilet.
SNiP “Residential Buildings” on distance standards
The rules contained in the regulatory document are mandatory for the construction of any type of building - industrial, public, medical, educational and residential. However, there is an unspoken opinion that owners of premises in residential buildings and private buildings can deviate from the dictated standards if they themselves carry out their maintenance and operation.
Basically, such a retreat is made by the owners of premises with bathrooms, combined or frankly small. If the toilet is spacious enough, it is better to adhere to the established rules in order to use special rooms with convenience and safety:
- to the front (front) wall or wall with a door, if we are talking about a small toilet, the minimum distance is 53 cm. This is enough to not feel tightness in the knee joint;
- the maximum required distance from the frontal plane located in front of the seated person is 76 cm;
- the maximum distance from the front does not particularly need to be regulated, and if possible, the functional zone for a person can be more than a meter;
- from the middle axis of the toilet to the side wall, the established minimum is 40 cm. In some sources it is defined as 38 cm;
- the optimal distance from the central axis of the toilet is 45 cm. This is enough for comfortable operation of the plumbing fixture. But no one forbids installing at a greater distance, if the parameters of the allocated room allow it;
- in a separate toilet, the distance between the toilet and the wall on the left in standard buildings is usually equal to the distance to the wall on the right side;
- The location of the toilet in the toilet room is usually the center of the room, because the sewer pipe is supplied here. This also determines the position of the remaining toilets on the riser on the floors above and below;
- The second option for placing plumbing equipment is closer to the back wall. This does not make it possible to equip some kind of shelves or rack, but it is typical for the minimum dimensions of the toilet in apartments of standard construction, where the bathroom is separate;
- The toilet stall in Soviet-era houses was built according to size, when the central placement provided the necessary distances to the side wall and front surface with the entrance door located in it.
When arranging a shared bathroom, there are certain conditions that must be observed. These are standards for the distance of the toilet from other interior items that should be adhered to, even minimally.
If the distance between the necessary furnishings does not meet accepted standards, zoning or partitions can be used.
But this is not a suitable option if the dimensions of one of the family members do not correspond to the average figures for which the building codes and standards are calculated.
PRINCIPLES, NORMS AND RULES OF BATHROOM PLAN
Let's continue the conversation about planning bathrooms and bathrooms. Once again, I want to refer you to a great book: The NKBA Kitchen & Bathroom Planning Guidelines with Access Standards, with new additions for 2016. We are already familiar with its chapters, which are devoted to KITCHEN
. And today I will tell you about the basic principles, norms and rules of the bathroom plan according to this guide.
Like last time, I made my translation, adding pictures and my explanations. I also made my own numbering of principles, highlighting the most important ones.
FIRST PRINCIPLE. DOORS
SECOND PRINCIPLE. CEILING HEIGHT
.
The management offers us the bare minimum
for bathrooms it is 2 meters, or rather even 2032 mm. I agree with this... Although for me 2 meters is super small... It is not always possible and necessary to make high ceilings in bathrooms... Therefore, knowing the minimum is good. You should also focus on your own feelings and capabilities.
- In what cases may it be necessary to change the ceiling height in the bathroom? You may ask... You know, there are cases - firstly, under the ceiling you can hide electrical wiring and other technical nuances of the room...
- Secondly, you can adjust the decorative arrangement in this way. For example: The height of my bathroom was 2950 mm. And the tiles were laid out evenly to a height of 2700 mm... and I didn’t want to see any unsightly trimming... so I just lowered the ceiling to the 2700 mark - and was satisfied. In this way, the feeling of a “tunnel” was also avoided in a small space.
THIRD PRINCIPLE. FREE SPACE IN FRONT OF SANITARY FIXTURES.
It is very important to leave the necessary minimum free space in front of the bathtub, toilet and sink so that using everything is comfortable and safe!
The manual gives us a minimum in the range of 53-76 cm (or 21-30″). It is generally accepted that an average distance of 60 cm is the optimal minimum.
Average social standards
Standards for installing a toilet away from the wall are the results of measurements, studies, social and statistical surveys that allow us to develop standards for continuous production. Some of them were included in GOSTs and SanPiN and became standard standards for the sale of industrial products in construction markets and building materials supermarkets.
The children's toilet was developed according to standards obtained in pediatrics, where there are standard standards for each age - weight, height. Children who do not meet age standards have to adapt to any preschool educational institution - be it a kindergarten or a school.
At home, not everyone has the extra square meters and funds to install a special device. It is much more rational to use a special toilet stand. Social standards concern standardized equipment and room size.
If there are people who do not meet these parameters, they are inconvenienced or (if they have significant funds) they create toilets and buy custom toilets. The average size standards are as follows:
- The most common toilet size: bowl height - 40 cm, tank - 81.5 cm, drain pipe rises 185 cm. The compact itself is most often 65 cm long and 35 cm wide. It follows that from the central axis of the device to its edges can be at least 17.5 cm, if this is an adult and not a child’s version. Then it is clear why on a construction forum, when asked how many centimeters should be the minimum distance, they write that it can be 38 cm, and the distance from the toilet to the side wall is at least 20 cm. In total, 17.5 cm (almost 18 cm) from the central (longitudinal) axis of the bowl and 20 cm recommended to the wall, and give those 38 cm (minimum). And if you follow the SNiP standards and make 45 cm from the axis to the wall, then this will be the optimal average parameter, convenient for most people.
- For a toilet room, according to building regulations, 80 cm in width and 1 m 20 cm in length are considered sufficient for a comfortable stay and the exercise of natural needs. When converting old secondary housing, the length and width are often made smaller. Sometimes in this way meters are gained in the hallway or kitchen. In this case, they usually bring the bathroom and toilet closer together or expand the space by changing the layout of the bathroom and installing a shower stall. But in houses of mass standard construction with a separate toilet, there is often a size determined by GOST and SNiP, corresponding to SanPiN standards and providing maximum convenience to people living in the apartment.