What is AS 1428.1 Standard
AS 1428.1 is an Australian Standard that sets out the design requirements for buildings and facilities to make them accessible to people with disabilities.
Its full title is:
AS 1428.1 – Design for Access and Mobility, Part 1: General Requirements for Access – New Building Work.
The standard is particularly important for commercial buildings, public toilets, shopping centres, schools, hospitals, offices and other public facilities.
For Ozwashroom, it is relevant because many commercial washroom products must be selected and installed to meet accessibility requirements.
Key AS 1428.1 guidelines for commercial washrooms
|
Area |
General requirements |
|
Accessible toilets |
Adequate wheelchair circulation space and accessible toilet fixtures |
|
Grab rails |
Correct positioning, dimensions, strength and secure installation |
|
Washbasins |
Accessible height, knee clearance and easy-to-use taps |
|
Soap dispensers |
Positioned within accessible reach |
|
Hand dryers |
Accessible operating controls and suitable mounting positions |
|
Toilet paper dispensers |
Installed within reach of a person seated on the toilet |
|
Mirrors |
Positioned for use by seated and standing people |
|
Doors |
Adequate clear opening widths, circulation space and accessible hardware |
|
Signage |
Appropriate accessible toilet identification, including tactile and Braille signage where required |
Important: AS 1428.1 is not simply a product certification. Compliance often depends on the product's installation position, surrounding clearances and the overall washroom layout.
Which version applies in Australia?
The current published edition is AS 1428.1:2021, which replaced AS 1428.1:2009. It is referenced by Australia's building accessibility framework, including the National Construction Code (NCC).
The precise requirements depend on the building project, the applicable NCC edition and any transitional arrangements.
You can find the official standard through Standards Australia