Accessible and usable plumbing for all

Some people can easily adapt to temporary situations. For example, when they have to move around with a broken leg or if they are pregnant. But what about in public buildings? An adapted plumbing system in a public or commercial building must be usable and shared by everyone, regardless of age or physical condition. This is why sanitation specialist DELABIE sets the bar particularly high in terms of accessibility, without losing sight of design.

It requires technical and architectural measures to ensure maximum independence for everyone, regardless of age or degree of mobility. Safety, hygiene, resistance to intensive use and vandalism, ergonomics, ...: all these characteristics must be taken into account when choosing a product for a public washroom. Design is also a market requirement: noble materials, high-quality finishes or original colors and natural shapes are all taken into account during the decision-making process.

Adapted to the masses

Since individual facilities are not always possible, accessible plumbing should be adapted to the masses and not to individuals. This means designing a neutral space. So visually neutral, discreet and non-stigmatizing, aesthetic and comfortable accessibility products are chosen. Of course, ergonomics and safety also remain crucial concerns.When choosing handles and supports, shape and diameter are important features: for example, excessively angular or square shapes are difficult to handle. Ideally, the diameter should be between 32 and 35 mm. In fact, when it is smaller or larger, the grip is not as good. The forearm muscles are strained at the expense of the shoulder muscles, while the user's forces should just be spared. When designing accessible washrooms, accessories are easily overlooked. Opting, for example, for a soap dispenser and toilet brush in the same design as the handles and tools promotes aesthetics. Making that toilet brush self-centering and giving it a long ergonomic handle will improve ergonomics for the user. Tiltable mirrors that are adjustable for wheelchair users also contribute to an equal experience in the washroom.

Design and technical performance go hand in hand

For DELABIE, market leader in sanitary facilities for public areas, it is important to meet the highest standards in terms of accessibility. From the design phase, a product undergoes multiple tests in terms of resistance, durability, ergonomics, biodiversity of the materials used, visual contrast values, etc. to ensure user safety.DELABIE's designers know that design is as important as technical performance. So aids and accessories not only comply with current guidelines, but also have stylish clean lines that are easy to clean. By offering products in different designs and materials, there is an answer for every type of interior that provides a good visual contrast: not only with handles and shower seats, but also with adapted faucets (for example, faucets with a long lever or electronic faucets) and appliances in stainless steel. The range offers an answer for every type of building and every interior.

Be-Line®

In addition to the series in glossy wear-resistant Nylon (NylonClean®) and in glossy or matte polished stainless steel (UltraPolish® or UltraSatin®), the Be-Line® range is also available. The latter range, in aluminum, brings together design and comfort. Furthermore, it also offers the user hygiene, safety and a sense of well-being. Thanks to the rounded shape and ergonomic flat anti-rotating side, the handles perfectly fit the shape of the hand.Designers and prescribers of accessible sanitary spaces for the public sector no longer have to compromise. It is possible to choose stylish products that can withstand intensive use while ensuring the safety and hygiene of users. In washrooms that are heavily used, attractive and well-maintained products with clean, bright surfaces will evoke more respect and care from users, without compromising on functionality, ergonomics or safety.