Enhancing Bathroom Accessibility: A Deep Dive into Armitage Shanks DOC M Packs

When it comes to creating accessible bathrooms, Armitage Shanks is a name that stands out. The brand has been a pioneer in offering a wide range of products that cater to the needs of disabled individuals. One of their most notable offerings is the DOC M packs, which are specifically designed to meet the latest recommendations for disabled toilets. These packs are not just functional but also profoundly stylish, ensuring that accessibility doesn't have to come at the cost of aesthetics. In this blog, we delve into the world of Armitage Shanks DOC M packs, exploring their features, benefits, and why they are a must-have for any commercial or public space.

What are DOC M Packs?

A DOC M pack is a collection of bathroom fixtures and fittings designed to meet the requirements of the UK's Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). The DDA was landmark legislation that sought to eliminate discrimination faced by disabled individuals. This act laid the foundation for the development of products and services that catered specifically to the needs of the disabled community. One such innovation was the DOC M pack, designed to ensure that bathrooms, a fundamental part of daily life, were accessible to all.

The DDA, especially its revised version from October 2004, mandates that all suppliers of services, goods, and facilities to the general public must remove barriers that prevent disabled individuals from accessing them. This includes physical barriers in public spaces like bathrooms. The DOC M Pack was a direct response to this mandate, offering a comprehensive solution to make bathrooms accessible.

These packs include everything from toilets and basins to grab rails and other essential accessories. They are designed in consultation with national disabled organisations, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of accessibility and comfort.

The design of the DOC M packs wasn't a solitary endeavor. Recognising the importance of firsthand experience, these packs were crafted in consultation with national disabled organisations. This collaboration ensured that the packs weren't just compliant with regulations but were genuinely user-friendly. By working closely with those who understood the challenges faced by disabled individuals, Armitage Shanks ensured that their DOC M packs met the highest standards of accessibility and comfort.

What makes up a DOC M pack?

Let's take a look at what is included with a typical DOC M pack. The components differ from range to range, but this is what to expect when taking delivery of your new Armitage Shanks DOC M pack.

Raised Height WC: This is a toilet that's designed to be higher than standard toilets, making it easier for individuals with mobility issues to use. The raised height reduces the distance one has to move to sit or stand, making the process more comfortable and safer.

Toilet Seat: The seats are often designed with additional stability and can sometimes include lids. They are made to be ergonomic and comfortable.

Basin: A basin that's positioned at an accessible height It's often shallower than standard basins to allow for easier reach from a seated position.

Thermostatic Tap with Easy-Turn Handle: This is a tap designed to prevent scalding. The easy-turn handle ensures that individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity can operate it with ease.

Grab Rails: These are support rails that can be fixed to the walls around the toilet, basin, and other areas of the bathroom. They provide additional support and stability for users.

While the components mentioned above are standard inclusions in a typical DOC M pack, it's essential to understand that the offerings can vary based on specific needs and settings. For instance, there are specialised DOC M packs tailored for shower rooms. These packs come equipped with features that ensure safety and accessibility in wet environments, such as non-slip flooring, shower seats, and strategically placed grab rails.

Furthermore, the DOC M line from Armitage Shanks is not just limited to these comprehensive packs. Recognising that every individual and setting might have unique requirements, Armitage Shanks offers the flexibility to purchase individual components. So, if you're only looking to make a few modifications to an existing bathroom or if you only need a specific item, you have the option to buy standalone products like a raised-height WC or a particular type of grab rail.

This flexibility ensures that you don't have to invest in a complete pack if you only need a few components. It also allows for more customised solutions, ensuring that every bathroom can be tailored to meet the specific needs of its users.

 What ranges of DOC M packs are available, and what makes them different from one another?

Here are some great examples of the variation you can expect with DOC M. The brilliant team at Armitage Shanks has packaged all of the components needed for specific use cases into easy-to-understand and distinct ranges.

Ambulant Pack:

The Ambulant Pack is specifically designed to cater to individuals who can walk but may face some mobility challenges. This pack is a thoughtful combination of features that aim to make the bathroom experience safer and more comfortable. It includes support rails around the toilet, which provide a sturdy grip and aid in sitting and standing. The raised height of the toilet is another feature that makes it easier for users to lower themselves onto the toilet without straining their knees or backs. Additionally, the accessible basin is designed to be easily reachable, even for those who may have limited arm movement. Overall, the Ambulant Pack offers a comprehensive solution for those who require a bit of extra support but do not need a fully adapted bathroom.

Contour 21+ Pack:

The Contour 21+ Pack goes beyond the basics to offer a more comprehensive set of features for enhanced hygiene and support. It includes a rimless WC, which minimises crevices where germs can hide, thus making it easier to clean and maintain. The basin comes with a sequential mixer tap that allows for easier temperature control. Multiple grab rails are strategically placed to provide support in various positions, whether you're sitting, standing, or moving. The pack also includes a toilet seat with a lid, adding an extra layer of hygiene. This pack is ideal for those who are looking for a high level of comfort, hygiene, and support in their bathroom.

Sensorflow Pack:

The Sensorflow Pack is a technologically advanced solution designed for maximum ease of use. It features a wall-mounted WC and sensor-operated taps, which reduce the need for manual operation, thereby minimising the spread of germs. The pack also includes support rails for added safety. According to Ideal Standard, the Sensorflow Pack comes with a TMV3-approved underbasin thermostatic mixer valve and a water-saving delay-fill 4 or 4.5-litre Sensorflow WC cistern. The rails have a chrome-plated finish, and the pack is LABC-approved and BS83000-compliant. This pack is perfect for those who prioritise hygiene and are comfortable using modern technology in their daily lives.

Peninsular Care Pack:

The Peninsular Care Pack is designed for spaces where care is provided from both sides of the user. It includes a back-to-wall WC and a basin with a sequential mixer tap. The unique feature of this pack is the provision of grab rails on both sides of the toilet, allowing for support from either side. This makes it ideal for care settings where assistance may be needed from multiple directions. The pack aims to offer a balance of functionality and support, making it a suitable choice for healthcare facilities or homes where care is provided.

Standard Pack:

The Standard Pack is a basic but effective solution for those who require minimal adjustments to their bathroom setup. It includes a close-coupled WC and a basin with a standard tap. Essential grab rails are also part of this pack, providing the necessary support for sitting and standing. This pack is ideal for those who do not have specific mobility issues but still appreciate some level of support and safety features in their bathroom.

Each of these packs is designed with specific needs in mind. Whether it's for an individual who requires minimal support or someone who needs comprehensive care, Armitage Shanks has a solution tailored for them.

Versatility in Design:

Armitage Shanks understands that every bathroom space and user requirement is unique. This understanding is reflected in the versatile design options of their DOC M packs. These packs are not just about meeting accessibility standards; they're about offering choices that cater to diverse needs. Whether you're dealing with a service void, which is an empty space behind the bathroom wall, or you're working with a smaller bathroom that demands a compact solution, Armitage Shanks has a configuration that's just right.

Furthermore, the choice between left-hand or right-hand single taphole basins ensures that the design can be tailored to the user's preference or the bathroom's layout. This level of versatility ensures that every individual, regardless of their mobility challenges, can have a bathroom that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Quality and Durability:

When investing in bathroom fixtures, especially those designed for accessibility, durability is paramount. Armitage Shanks' DOC M packs are a testament to this commitment. The inclusion of taps with copper tails is not just a design choice; copper is known for its longevity and resistance to corrosion, making it a preferred material in plumbing applications.

The cisterns, designed to hold 4.5 litres of water, strike a balance between efficient flushing and water conservation, reflecting an eco-friendly approach. Additionally, the basins are equipped with wastes and bottle traps. These features not only prevent blockages but also make maintenance easier, ensuring that the basins remain functional and hygienic for years to come.

Attention to Detail:

In the world of bathroom design, it's the little details that often make the most significant difference. Armitage Shanks exemplifies this philosophy in their DOC M packs. Taking the Contour 21+ range as an example, the inclusion of rimless WCs is not just about modern aesthetics; a rimless design is easier to clean and offers better hygiene. The seats are crafted to provide maximum comfort, and the concealed cisterns add to the sleek look while ensuring efficient water usage.

Hand rinse basins are another thoughtful addition, allowing users to quickly wash their hands without the need for a full-sized basin. Furthermore, the strategically placed grab rails are not mere afterthoughts; they are designed to offer maximum support in the areas where individuals need it the most. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every user, regardless of their physical abilities, can have a comfortable and dignified bathroom experience.

The Significance of Colour in Armitage Shanks DOC M Packs

When it comes to designing accessible bathrooms, every detail matters. Beyond the physical components and their placement, the choice of colour plays a pivotal role in enhancing usability, especially for individuals with specific health conditions. Armitage Shanks, with its DOC M packs, has incorporated a range of colours that not only add aesthetic appeal but also serve functional purposes. Let's delve into the significance of these colours: white, blue, grey, stainless steel, charcoal, and red.

White: Often associated with cleanliness and purity, white is a universal colour that offers a neutral backdrop. In terms of accessibility, white provides a clear contrast to other colours, making it easier for users to distinguish between different elements in the bathroom.

Blue: Blue is a calming and serene color. In the context of DOC M packs, blue grab rails and fixtures can stand out against lighter-coloured walls, aiding those with visual impairments. The contrast ensures that individuals can safely navigate and use the bathroom facilities.

Grey: A versatile colour, grey strikes a balance between contrast and subtlety. For those who prefer a modern aesthetic without compromising accessibility, grey fixtures and rails can be both stylish and functional.

Stainless Steel: Beyond its sleek and contemporary appeal, stainless steel offers durability and resistance to corrosion. Its reflective surface can also aid in enhancing visibility, especially in well-lit bathrooms.

Charcoal: A deeper shade than grey, charcoal offers a stark contrast, especially against lighter tiles or walls. This strong contrast can be particularly beneficial for those with partial vision, making it easier to identify fixtures and rails.

Red: Perhaps one of the most significant colours in terms of accessibility, red is often recommended for individuals with dementia. Studies have shown that dementia patients can perceive the colour red more clearly than other colours. Red fixtures or grab rails can provide clear visual cues, helping reduce confusion and ensuring safer use of the bathroom facilities.

The choice of colour in bathroom design, especially in accessible bathrooms, goes beyond mere aesthetics. It's about creating an environment where users, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, can navigate with ease and confidence. Armitage Shanks' decision to offer a range of colours in their DOC M packs is a testament to their commitment to combining style with functionality.

When selecting a DOC M pack or any accessible bathroom fixture, it's essential to consider the user's specific needs. Whether it's the calming presence of blue, the clear contrast of charcoal, or the dementia-friendly cues of red, the right colour can make a world of difference in enhancing safety and usability.

Conclusion

Armitage Shanks DOC M packs are a perfect blend of functionality, durability, and style. They are designed with the user in mind, ensuring that accessibility is never compromised. Whether you are a business owner looking to make your premises more inclusive or a homeowner wanting to create an accessible bathroom for a loved one, these packs offer a one-stop solution for all your needs.

So, the next time you think of renovating a bathroom or building one from scratch, consider Armitage Shanks DOC M packs. They are not just a product, but a commitment to making lives easier and more comfortable.