Does Your Building Need a Doc M Bathroom?

Doc M, short for ‘approved document M’, is a broad set of regulations which must be adhered to to facilitate access and use of buildings for all members of the public, including disabled people. 

In terms of plumbing, this means accessible bathrooms and toilets (with grab rails to assist movement) and altered taps, toilets and shower facilities. 

We’ve covered what bathroom fittings are Doc M compliant, but now we’re going to answer whether or not your building actually needs a Doc M bathroom. 

What is a Doc M bathroom?

A doc M bathroom usually refers to a commercial bathroom (or public bathroom) which complies with the requirements laid out by approved document M. These bathrooms must be professionally installed and contain certain features allowing for increased accessibility, maneuverability and other safety considerations for individuals with limited movement, in wheelchairs, or with other disabilities.   

Doc M bathrooms are usually installed using fittings from a ‘Doc M pack’ which is essentially an all-in-one pack which includes all the parts and fittings required to make your bathroom compliant. These usually include:

Doc M bathrooms need to be fitted by the professionals, who know what it takes to ensure total legal compliance for your buildings.

What buildings need to be Doc M compliant?

Doc M compliance applies to all newly built non-domestic buildings, new dwellings and after specific changes to existing buildings. The specifics of what compliance means for your building type can vary a great deal, so we’d recommend fully understand the Approved Document M, or speaking to professional plumbers, before going ahead with a bathroom, washroom or shower installation:

Doc M ensures all facilities are legally compliant with the Equality Act 2010, as well as increasing the inclusivity of your facilities, not just for wheelchair users, but also for those with other disabilities and impairments. 

Does your commercial building need a Doc M compliant washroom?

Yes, your commercial building most likely needs a Doc M compliant washroom. Under the equality act and building regulations part M, details such as grab rails, lever taps and thermostatic valves allow disabled people to use these facilities without being at a ‘substantial disadvantage’.

Not only does a compliant washroom, bathroom or shower ensure legal compliance, but it also improves the public image and accessibility of your building. This should help you to attract more business, customers and individuals to your premises.

However, achieving Doc M compliance isn’t as simple as buying a Doc M bathroom pack and installing it. You need professional plumbers, with experience following guidelines and measurements to a tee. 

Doc M Toilet Installation

Lacey Plumbing can help with Doc M toilet installation. Our experience means we can work with you every step of the way, working towards a legally compliant and publicly accessible commercial building. 

Our Doc M toilet installation services will give you peace of mind that you’re following all guidelines allowing people with disabilities to access and use your premises safely and comfortably. 

We also offer bathroom adaptations for elderly and disabled individuals, whether that's for residential premises or otherwise. Get in touch to get started.