Grab Rails

A grab rail gives someone a fixed point to hold while standing, sitting or stepping over a hob. They are a requirement in aged care and accessible bathrooms, and they are increasingly fitted in ordinary homes by people planning to stay in them.

The range covers straight rails, 45 degree and 90 degree angled rails, and curved rails, in the common 450mm, 600mm and 750mm lengths, including the Mica Care range with finishes to match the tapware.

Where grab rails go

• Beside the toilet — usually a 90 degree rail on the wall the pan sits against, or a straight horizontal rail on the side wall.
• In the shower — a 45 degree rail on the back wall for standing support, and a vertical rail at the entry for stepping in.
• At the bath — a straight rail along the wall above the tub, for getting in and out.

Fixing is the part that matters most. A grab rail is only as good as what it is screwed into, so it needs solid backing behind the wall sheet — noggins, a ply backing sheet or masonry. Screwing a rail into plasterboard alone is worse than having no rail at all, because someone will trust it.

If the bathroom is being built or renovated, mark the rail positions before the walls are lined. If it is being retrofitted, a licensed installer can locate or add backing.

The care range with matching finishes is in Mica Care Hardware, seats and back rests in Accessible Accessories, and the wider range in Disability Care and Commercial. Ordered through Builders Warehouse Online.