Section 606.1/Accessible Lavatories and Sinks
ADA 2010 Section 606 covers accessible lavatory requirements including rim height, knee clearance, faucet controls, and pipe insulation for wheelchair approach.
Accessible lavatories must have the top of the rim or counter surface no higher than 34 inches above the floor. Knee clearance per Section 306 must be provided beneath the lavatory: at least 27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and 8 inches deep at the knee, extending to at least 17 inches deep at 9 inches above the floor for toe clearance. A clear floor space of 30 by 48 inches for a forward approach must be centered on the lavatory. Faucets must be operable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting: lever handles, push-button, touch-type, or electronically controlled faucets comply. Self-closing faucets must remain open for at least 10 seconds. Exposed hot water and drain pipes under the lavatory must be insulated or covered to protect against contact burns and abrasion. The lavatory must not have sharp or abrasive surfaces under the bowl area. The mirror above the lavatory must have its bottom edge no higher than 40 inches above the floor (or reflecting surface at 40 inches maximum).
Why this section exists
Wheelchair users must be able to roll under the lavatory to reach the faucet and basin. A standard vanity cabinet prevents wheelchair approach entirely. The 34-inch maximum rim height positions the basin at a comfortable height for hand washing from a seated position. The knee and toe clearance dimensions accommodate the wheelchair footrest and the user's legs. Pipe insulation prevents burns from hot water supply lines and abrasion from drain pipes, which are at knee level for a seated user and not visible during approach. The faucet operability requirements address users with limited hand strength or dexterity.
What plan reviewers look for
Plan reviewers check interior elevations and fixture schedules for lavatory rim height (34 inches maximum). They verify knee clearance dimensions on the lavatory detail or section. They check the clear floor space centered on the lavatory on the floor plan. They verify faucet type on the fixture schedule (lever, push-button, or electronic). They check for pipe insulation or a pipe cover note on the plumbing drawings or specifications. They verify the mirror mounting height on interior elevations. In accessible toilet rooms, they verify at least one lavatory meets all accessibility requirements.