ADA Guidelines for Shower Handrails in the Home

Diameter

• The diameter of the grab bar in a shower should range from 1 1/4 inches to 1 1/2 inches. The surface should be easy to grip without resulting in slipping or sliding.

Wall Space

• The distance between the wall and the grab bar needs 1 1/2 inches if the bar is mounted on the wall.

Recesses

• If the handrail needs to be installed in a recess, it can be no deeper than 3 inches and the rail needs to be a minimum of 18 inches away from the top of the recess.

Edges

• The edges of a handrail should have at least 1/8 inch radius and not have any sharp or abrasive edges or materials.