ADA Requirements for Shower Controls

ADA 608.5 Controls. Controls, faucets and shower spray units shall comply with 309.4.

ADA 309.4 Operation. Operable parts shall be operable with one hand and shall not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. The force required to activate operable parts shall be 5 pounds (22.2 N) maximum.

ADA 608.5.1 Transfer-Type Shower Compartments. In transfer-type shower compartments, the controls, faucets and shower spray unit shall be installed on the side wall opposite the seat 38 inches (965 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1,220 mm) maximum above the shower floor and shall be located on the control wall 15 inches (380 mm) maximum from the centerline of the seat toward the shower opening.

ADA 608.5.2 Standard Roll-In-Type Shower Compartments. In standard roll-in-type shower compartments, the controls, faucets and shower spray unit shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1,220 mm) above the shower floor. Where a seat is provided, the controls, faucets and shower spray unit shall be installed on the back wall adjacent to the seat wall and shall be located 27 inches (685 mm) maximum from the seat wall.

Advisory ADA 608.5.2 Standard Roll-in-Type Shower Compartments. In standard roll-in-type showers without seats, the showerhead and operable parts can be located on any of the three walls of the shower without adversely affecting accessibility.

ADA 608.5.3 Alternate Roll-In-Type Shower Compartments. In alternate roll-in-type shower compartments, the controls, faucets and shower spray unit shall be located above the grab bar, but no higher than 48 inches (1,220 mm) above the shower floor. Where a seat is provided, the controls, faucets and shower spray unit shall be located on the side wall adjacent to the seat 27 inches (685 mm) maximum from the side wall behind the seat or shall be located on the back wall opposite the seat 15 inches (380 mm) maximum, left or right, of the centerline of the seat. 

Where a seat is not provided, the controls, faucets and shower spray unit shall be installed on the side wall farthest from the compartment entry.

 ADA 608.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water. A shower spray unit with a hose 59 inches (1,500 mm) long minimum that can be used both as a fixed-position showerhead and as a hand-held shower shall be provided. The shower spray unit shall have an on/off control with a non-positive shut-off. If an adjustable-height showerhead on a vertical bar is used, the bar shall be installed so as not to obstruct the use of grab bars. Shower spray units shall deliver water that is 120° F (49° C) maximum.

Exception: A fixed showerhead located at 48 inches (1,220 mm) maximum above the shower finish floor shall be permitted instead of a hand-held spray unit in facilities that are not medical care facilities, long-term care facilities, transient lodging guest rooms or residential dwelling units.

ADA Advisory 608.6 Shower Spray Unit and Water. Ensure that hand-held shower spray units are capable of delivering water pressure substantially equivalent to fixed showerheads.

608.7 Thresholds. Thresholds in roll-in-type shower compartments shall be 1/2 inch (13 mm) high maximum in accordance with 303. In transfer-type shower compartments, thresholds 1/2 inch (13 mm) high maximum shall be beveled, rounded or vertical.

Exception: A threshold 2 inches (51 mm) high maximum shall be permitted in transfer-type shower compartments in existing facilities where provision of a 1/2 inch (13 mm) high threshold would disturb the structural reinforcement of the floor slab.

608.8 Shower Enclosures. Enclosures for shower compartments shall not obstruct controls, faucets and shower spray units or obstruct transfer from wheelchairs onto shower seats.

Americans with Disabilities Act Source: https://bit.ly/2RME0Lh