Grab Bars
Posted on 16. Feb, 2009 by Dave in Mobility Aids
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Grab bars are safety devices that enable one to have proper balance in places with slippery surfaces. They are often installed in bathrooms, industrial complexes, and other places where safety is a primary concern. Grab bars are a common feature in households where a person with disability or problem with balance lives. They are often found in bathrooms and are designed to help disabled people to move from the wheelchair to the bathroom.
Grab bars can be installed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally according to the need. They can also be mounted on a portion of the wall, from the wall to the ceiling, or from one corner to another.
Types of grab bars
Wall-mounted grab bars are the most common types of grab bars and come in a variety of sizes and lengths. Straight grab bars can be installed horizontally and vertically. L-shaped grab bars are installed around a bathtub, inside a shower stall, or around the bathroom wall. Inside-corner grab bars are installed for wheelchair access according to ADA or American with Disabilities Act of 1990 guidelines. Other types of grab bars are wave and U-shaped grab bars. The U-shaped grab bar is used by disabled persons in the shower and around doorways.
How to install grab bars
- The first step in installing a grab bar is to locate two studs on the wall. You can do this with a stud locator or by knocking on the wall above the tile. Studs are usually placed 16 inches apart from each other.
- Extend the location of the stud bars to where you want to attach the grab bars and mark the location with a piece of masking tape. If you are planning to put the grab bars on the wall next to a bath tub, place the bars six to ten inches above the top of the long side of the tub.
- Drill a 1/8 inch hole to confirm the location of the stud. Take the grab bar and mark the holes over the new stud position. Enlarge the holes through the tile using a masonry bit.
- Caulk the flange to prevent water from getting behind the walls. Attach the bar to the wall using no. 10 to no. 12 stainless steel pan head screws. Two-inch screws are ideal.
- Pull on the grab bars to test if they are solidly attached. You should have the grab bar properly secured with no chance of it coming off, as this can lead to serious injuries.
