609.2-8 – Grab Bars

609.2 Cross Section.

609.2.1 Circular Cross Section.
Grab bars with circular cross sections shall have an outside diameter of 32 mm (1 1/4″) minimum and 51 mm (2″) maximum.

609.2.2 Non-Circular Cross Section.
Grab bars with non-circular cross sections shall have a cross-section dimension of 51 mm (2″) maximum and a perimeter dimension of 100 mm (4″) minimum and 120 mm (4.8″) maximum.

609.3 Spacing.
The space between the wall and the grab bar shall be 38 mm (1 1/2″).  The space between the grab bar and projecting objects below and at the ends shall be 38 mm (1 1/2″) minimum.  The space between the grab bar and projecting objects above shall be 305 mm (12″) minimum.

609.4 Position of Grab Bars.
Grab bars shall be installed in a horizontal position, 840 mm (33″) minimum and 915 mm (36″) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the gripping surface, except that at water closets for children’s use complying with 604.9, grab bars shall be installed in a horizontal position 455 mm (18″) minimum and 685 mm (27″) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the gripping surface.  The height of the lower grab bar on the back wall of a bathtub shall comply with 607.4.1.1 or 607.4.2.1.

609.5 Surface Hazards.
Grab bars and any wall or other surfaces adjacent to grab bars shall be free of sharp or abrasive elements and shall have rounded edges.

609.6 Fittings.
Grab bars shall not rotate within their fittings.

609.7 Installation.
Grab bars shall be installed in any manner that provides a gripping surface at the specified locations and that does not obstruct the required clear floor space.

609.8 Structural Strength.
Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the grab bar, fastener, mounting device, or supporting structure.