Accessible Showering – enhanced compliance

Horne’s leading design for accessible showering now complies with BS 8300, HBN 00-02, DOC M and Wheelchair Housing Design Guide.

This accessible dual-mode shower panel package features lever controls, a fixed overhead showerhead, and a separate, height-adjustable handset on a sliding riser rail.  Users can effortlessly switch between these options using a manually operated flow diverter, providing independent and assisted showering options within a single system.  This design is ideal for dementia and elderly care, shared accommodations, supported living, and multi-user facilities, where individuals have varying needs but an adaptable space.

The wall-mounted rail now allows 1000mm range of shower head height adjustability – better accommodating users of different heights and abilities for a more personalised shower experience.  The rail’s robust yet lightweight construction – powder-coated extruded and anodised aluminium – supports a maximum load of 150kg, thus also doubles as a sturdy grab rail for extra support. 

The sliding handset carriage features a novel pull-tab release extender, which allows in-wheelchair and shorter users to lower the shower head to a comfortable level with minimal effort.  The handset holder also employs finely controlled friction grip technology, enabling precise positioning and rotation of the handset even when hand mobility is diminished.

The rail is available in deep orange/grey (RAL 2011) or white/grey (RAL 9010).  Orange is selected specifically for it being a lasting (in terms of visual perception) colour with strong tonal contrast against pale backgrounds.  This is particularly beneficial for individuals with colour perception and contrast sensitivity difficulties – often observed with neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinsons and Alzheimer’s.

A built-in thermal disinfection functionality also addresses water system hygiene and allows internal pipework to be periodically sanitised through an elevated-temperature flushing process.  While particularly advantageous in healthcare settings and supported care facilities, specifiers should understand that in private dwellings, thermal disinfection if it is required, should only be performed by a competent and fully ambulant individual, and with strict adherence to manufacturer guidelines to minimise scald risk.

Horne Engineering Ltd  |  01505 321455  |  https://b.link/Included