Code of Massachusetts Regulations › 521 CMR - Architectural Access Board › Title 521 CMR 44 - GROUP 2 BATHROOMS › Section 44.6 - BATHING FIXTURES

Current through Register 1525, July 5, 2024
If more than one bathing fixture is provided in a
dwelling unit
, one shall be a shower unit complying with
521 CMR 44.6.2.
If a jacuzzi or whirlpool tub is the only bathing
facility
, it must meet the requirements of
521 CMR 44.6.1
. Where one bathing fixture is provided, it may be either a shower unit or a bathtub.
44.6.1 Bathtubs shall comply with the following:
a. Fixtures: Bathtubs shall be a minimum, nominal dimension of 60 inches (60" = 1524mm) long. The rim shall be between 16 and 18 inches (16" and 18" = 406mm and 457mm) above the floor.
b. Minimum floor area: A clear floor area 30 inches (30" = 762mm) wide and at least 72 inches (72" = 1829mm) long shall be provided adjacent to the tub. At least 12 inches (12" = 305mm) of the area length shall extend beyond the drain end of the tub if the tub is 60 inches (60" = 1524mm) long.
c. Wall reinforcement: All walls of the tub shall have structural reinforcement to allow the future installation of grab bars at any location from the rim of the tub to a height of 60 inches (60" = 1524m) above the tub bottom.
In Group 2B bathrooms, two grab bars, 48 inches (48" = 1219mm) long, shall be installed centered on the long wall and parallel to the floor. One shall be mounted at a height of 21 inches (21" = 533mm) and one at a height of 36 inches (36" = 914mm) above the floor
.
d. Tub material: Plastic or fiberglass tubs shall be structurally capable of accepting the installation of a lift that clamps onto the rim.
e. Hardware: Faucets shall be operable with a closed fist and shall not require grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist.
f. Hardware location: Faucets and mixing valves shall be centered horizontally on the long wall of the tub, 28 inches (28" = 711mm) above the floor. The tub spout shall be located on the end wall above the drain and a shower head may be located on either the end wall or long wall. If hardware is installed in locations other than those specified, piping shall also be provided and capped in the wall.
g. Hand-held showers: A hand-held shower head with a flow regulator, attached to a 60 inch (60" = 1524mm) long flexible hose and an adjustable mounting bar, shall be provided or be capable of being installed on the long wall of the tub.
In Group 2B bathrooms, a tub seat which is portable or permanent shall be provided
.
In Group 2B bathrooms, a hand held shower head attached to a 60 inch (60" = 1524mm) long flexible hose and an adjustable mounting bar, 36 inches (36" = 914mm) long, shall be installed on the long wall of the tub. The bottom of the mounting bar shall be located at 40 inches (40" = 1016mm) above the tub bottom.
h. Door enclosures: Tracks for sliding doors or enclosures shall not be mounted on the rim of the bathtub unless they can be removed.
In Group 2B bathrooms, sliding doors shall not be used
.
i. Soap Trays: Soap trays shall not have a hand-hold feature and shall be installed or be capable of being relocated with a centerline no higher than 48 inches (48" = 1219mm) above the floor.
In Group 2B bathrooms, soap trays shall be installed no higher than 48 inches (48" = 1219mm) above the floor to the centerline of the soap tray.