Approved Document T Update
As of October 1st 2024, toilet cubicle dimensions for workplace and public building projects are now subject to Approved Document T (Part T) regulation. We’re supporting architects, designers and specifiers through these changes by providing expert support and resources through our lunch & learn and specifier hub guides.
Each toilet cubicle must be designed with the user and location in mind. For example, toilet cubicles vary in accessibility in different settings. Education facilities, healthcare, leisure centres, and sports buildings follow their own guidance separate from Part T. Also, it is usually wise to consider cubicle sizes and layout for ambulant persons and accessible toilets (DDA Compliant). For more on regulations and requirements click here.
For a quick overview of Approved Document T, visit our comprehensive FAQ section.
As required of Schedule 1 to the Building Regulations 2010, toilet accommodation in buildings that fall within Part T must consist of:
Male and female single-sex toilets.
Or – where space precludes, the provision of single-sex universal toilets.
And – if space allows, universal toilets in addition to single-sex toilets.
Approved Document T identifies four types of toilet accommodation that are suitable for meeting requirement T1:
- Type A – Fully enclosed self-contained ambulant universal toilet (superloo)
- Type B – Fully enclosed self-contained universal toilet (superloo)
- Type C – Ambulant single-sex toilet cubicle (not self-contained)
- Type D – Single-sex toilet cubicle (not self-contained)
Below, we will discuss the variations of toilet dimensions and toilet types to get a better understanding of these new requirements.
Type A Toilet Cubicle Dimensions
Type A fully enclosed, self-contained ambulant universal toilet cubicle is specifically designed to meet accessibility needs for ambulant users with limited mobility. These cubicles offer added space and are fully enclosed to provide privacy for users regardless of gender. According to the 2024 Building Regulations under Part T, Type A cubicles must meet certain minimum dimensions and features to ensure functionality and comfort.
Key specifications for a Type A cubicle include:
- Overall Dimensions: Minimum 2125mm (length) x 985mm (width) with a 750mm door opening width.
- Wash basin: Minimum size of 250mm x 400mm, positioned within the cubicle for convenience.
- High and low hooks: Two hooks are required—one at a high position (1685mm) and one at a low position (1050mm).
- Shelf: Provision for a self-supporting shelf in the corner, with minimum dimensions of 250mm x 150mm.
- Disposal bin: Space allocated for a disposal bin, with minimum dimensions of 540mm x 210mm.
- Grab rails: Horizontal grab rails (minimum 600mm) must be installed on both sides, with an additional vertical grab rail in an “L” configuration, also 600mm.
- Column of clearance : Previously referred to as a turning circle, this has a minimum diameter of 465mm directly in front of the toilet pan.
- Activity Spaces:
- In front of the toilet: 600mm deep by 800mm wide.
- In front of the washbasin: 600mm deep by 800mm wide.
These cubicles are a versatile and compliant option for locations where accessible, unisex facilities are needed. By providing enhanced privacy and accessibility, Type A cubicles align with the latest Part T requirements for inclusive washroom design.
Type B Toilet Cubicle Dimensions
Also known as ‘Superloos’, Type B – fully enclosed self-contained universal toilet is not solely a single-sex toilet and may be used by anyone regardless of gender identity, though if desired, they can be placed within a single-sex washroom.
Key specifications for Type B toilet cubicles under Part T include:
- Overall dimensions: Minimum 1685mm (length) x 1050mm (width) with a 650mm door opening width.
- Wash basin: A minimum-sized 250mm x 400mm washbasin, mirror, and hand dryer are provided within the cubicle to ensure complete self-contained functionality.
- High and low hooks: Includes both a high hook at 1685mm and a low hook at 1050mm for user convenience.
- Shelf: Provision for a self-supporting shelf in the corner, with minimum dimensions of 250mm x 150mm.
- Disposal bin: Space allocated for a disposal bin, with minimum dimensions of 540mm x 210mm.
- Column of clearance : Previously referred to as a turning circle, this has a minimum diameter of 465mm directly in front of the toilet pan.
- Activity Spaces:
- In front of the toilet: 600mm deep by 800mm wide.
- In front of the washbasin: 600mm deep by 800mm wide.
Additionally, for privacy, all washroom facilities should have no direct sightline from corridors or circulation spaces.
Type C Toilet Cubicle Dimensions
Type C cubicles are single-sex, ambulant-accessible toilets designed with accessibility features for users who may need added support, such as grab rails. These cubicles provide basic accessibility in single-sex washrooms, though they do not include hand-washing facilities within the cubicle.
Part T of the 2024 Building Regulations specifies the following dimensions and requirements for Type C cubicles to ensure both accessibility and privacy:
- Overall Dimensions: Minimum size of 1465mm (length) x 920mm (width), with a door opening width of 750mm for easy access.
- Column of clearance : A minimum clearance area in front of the toilet pan of 465mm in diameter, previously referred to as the turning circle.
- Activity space: Provide an activity space in front of the WC with a minimum depth of 600mm and width of 800mm for comfortable manoeuvring.
- High and low hooks: Equipped with a high hook at 1685mm and a low hook at 1050mm for user convenience.
- Shelf and Disposal Bin Space:
- Self-Supporting Shelf: Minimum dimensions of 250mm x 150mm, providing space for personal items.
- Disposal Bin: A minimum area of 540mm x 210mm for waste disposal.
- Grab Rails:
- Horizontal Grab Rails: Minimum 600mm on both sides of the cubicle for support.
- Vertical Grab Rail: A 600mm grab rail in an “L” configuration to aid users when sitting or standing.
These Type C cubicles offer a practical solution within single-sex washrooms, providing essential accessibility features without requiring a fully self-contained design.
Type D Toilet Cubicle Dimensions
This cubicle type is intended solely for individuals of the same sex, with shared washbasins and hand-drying areas designated for exclusive use by that sex.
Once adequate single-sex toilet facilities are provided, any additional space may be allocated for universal toilets. If there isn’t enough room for gendered facilities, Type B (superloos) may be used instead of traditional cubicles for enhanced privacy and flexibility.
Type D cubicles must meet the following minimum requirements under Part T:
- Overall Dimensions: Minimum size of 1685mm (length) x 1050mm (width) with a 650mm door opening width.
- Self-Supporting Shelf: Minimum dimensions of 250mm x 150mm in a corner position for personal storage.
- Disposal Bin: Minimum area of 540mm x 210mm for a waste disposal bin.
- High and low hooks: Includes a high hook at 1685mm and a low hook at 1050mm for convenient hanging options.
Type D cubicles serve as an efficient, straightforward option in single-sex washrooms, supporting privacy and functionality in shared restroom facilities.
Standard Cubicle Dimensions Prior to Part T
Previously, every standard cubicle by law had to have a minimum of a 450mm diameter for the user to manoeuvre in. We have highlighted the following sizes to outline a recommended guide on toilet cubicle dimensions:
- Standard Dimensions – 850mm wide x 1500mm deep
- Inward Opening Door Type
Indicator-bolts must also be capable of being operated with a closed fist (i.e., easily accessible for people with mobility issues) and doors must operate in such a way that complies with emergency evacuation procedures. If the cubicle were to collapse or become damaged, the user must be able to get out without becoming trapped.
There are different types of designs and regulations determined by your requirements. For example, do you require gender-neutral toilets? Or, do you need to know about office toilets or cafe toilets?
How many toilets per person do you need? Click here.
Ambulent (Disabled) Toilet Dimensions
Ambulant cubicles are for user with disabilities who are able to walk.
Every same-sex toilet cubicle had a minimum of one WC cubicle suited for such users. If the establishment in question only had one toilet cubicle, then it must have been suitable for an ambulant user. The toilet cubicle must have also featured an outward opening door and grab rails for accessibility.
- Standard Dimensions – 850mm wide x 1500mm deep (800mm minimum width between surfaces)
- Outward Opening Door Type
Click here to read more on disabled toilet cubicle dimensions
Enlarged Toilet Cubicle Dimensions
These toilet cubicles were comprised of a single washroom with 4 or more cubicles inside. These enlarged cubicles had a width of 1210mm and included an outward opening door. Both horizontal and vertical rails were also a requirement in order to assist the user if necessary.
- Standard Dimensions – 1210mm wide x 1500mm deep (1200mm minimum width between surfaces)
- Outward Opening Door Type
Doc M (Wheelchair) Accessible Toilets
Similar to the enlarged cubicle toilet, wheelchair access is of paramount importance for the physically impaired.
The accessible toilet dimensions had previously been restructured in order to accommodate a cubicle length of 2220mm, as opposed to its previous measurement of 2000mm. The outward opening door needs to be 950mm wide and have a 900mm opening. Doc M Accessible Toilets are usually formed from partition walls and not cubicle material and require a Doc ‘M’ pack including suitable sanitary ware and grab / drop down rails.
- Standard Dimensions – 2220mm wide x 1500mm deep
- Outward Opening Door Type
What are the Building Regulations in Relation to Toilet Cubicle Dimensions?
Before Part T, there were no set sizes for toilet cubicles and building regulations governed the minimum toilet cubicle dimensions for manufacturers and suppliers. The Building Regulations Part M and the Equality Act 2010 showcased guidance on standard, ambulant and enlarged toilet cubicle dimensions for companies to follow.
With Part T now in effect, new cubicle types are now in place and affect the following projects:
Only workplace and public buildings in England requiring Building Regulations approval.
Projects not sufficiently progressed by 1st April 2025
For new buildings, construction is progressed when concrete is poured for the trench, pad, or raft foundations, or when piling begins.
For existing buildings, work begins when any modifications or repairs start.
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