Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design (2015)

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34 3.1 Considerations Once the proposed locations are determined and the first project is identified, the next step is to develop the design. The prototype plan has presumably been massaged and shaped to fit the location(s) but may require fine-tuning as the components are finalized. The design stage is the ultimate tug of war between functionality, space requirements, initial costs, and long-term costs (maintenance, resource usage, etc.). Everything that goes into and around the restroom needs to be researched, discussed, prioritized, priced, selected, and located within the space. This chapter steps through this process. The intent of this guidebook is not to recommend design solutions but rather offer suggestions and considerations as the design is pulled together by the restroom team. Section 3.3 looks at each of the primary components in the restroom and associated pipe chases, and janitorial and storage spaces including the following: • Signage • Amenities • Surfaces • Accessories • Plumbing • HVAC • Electrical • Lighting • Technology For products that have a number of attributes to compare, a matrix is provided in Appendix A that compares: • Initial cost • Life cycle cost • Warranty • Maintenance • Sustainability • Pros • Cons Before jumping into that level of detail, however, it is important to consider the impacts of maintenance, sustainability, and universal design. 3.1.1 Maintenance Every material and product will require frequent cleaning and occasional repair or replacement. A component installed in the restroom of an office building may last ten to fifteen years, in a large C H A P T E R 3 Design

Design 35 hub airport restroom, maybe two to five years. This is in part due to the 24/7 operations, especially in larger airports, but also the constant bumping of carry-ons and, unfortunately, vandalism. Durability is a key aspect of every item that is included in an airport restroom and typically comes with a higher price tag than most of the other options. The high price is not necessarily extravagant. A material that will hold up for twenty years instead of five may be worth paying double the cost per square foot. A key feature of surfaces that are easier to clean and are ultimately more durable is minimal joints. Large-format tiles, for example, are gaining prevalence as new innovations in manufacturing provide wall panels up to four feet by ten feet with butt joints sealed with adhesive. Eliminating grout joints, which over time discolor—often to the shade of mop-water gray—and can develop cracks that let moisture seep into the wall or floor cavities, will give restrooms a fresh, clean appearance. Of course, with innovations come additional considerations. In the example of the large- format panels, it is critical to understand wall and floor movement to avoid stress cracks. Such deflection can be significant in older airports. The key is that the entire restroom team participates in researching and evaluating products, which is an ongoing process. New materials, products, and technologies are introduced every day. Most will not pass muster, but occasionally one will fulfill a need or provide an enhancement that will benefit customer service or operations. International airports are visited by travelers from other cultures that may have never experienced a Western restroom. In their attempts to figure out a stall full of unfamiliar fixtures, they at times will cause damage. Then there is intentional damage from disgruntled travelers, unruly youth, and others—every airport has its share of stories. While some airports make efforts to minimize damage such as providing instructional signage or frequent monitoring by staff, at the end of the day replacing or repairing broken fixtures and extra cleaning is part of operating an airport. That being said, it is imperative that selected materials and products are easily repaired or replaced. While a light fixture from Italy may provide gorgeous lighting at the sink mirrors, when the replacement takes four weeks to arrive, it has a significant impact on a traveler’s experience. Try to select products that have locally available stock or at least an attentive local representative. For those products that do have long lead times, specify a supply of attic stock with the project. 3.1.2 Sustainability Any opportunity an airport can find to reduce waste of natural resources should be explored. Some may not be economically feasible, but airport restrooms have several aspects that can have significant impact on resource-waste with relatively low impact to the project’s long-term costs. Most obvious is water usage. Low-flow fixtures can substantially conserve the amount of water consumed. Toilets, urinals, sink faucets, and drinking fountains all have sustainable features available that are noted in Appendix A: Component Comparison Matrix. A strategy that should be considered for every product is the LEED 500-mile maximum radius from extraction and manufacture to the project site. Note that these products and technologies are still in development and some current products actually end up having adverse effects. The sensors on some automatic flush valves are activated by the slightest movement of a person in a stall. This may cause the toilet to flush several times during one visit. Reflective stall materials can also confuse the sensors. Some waterless urinals have issues with odors depending on the model and the maintenance procedures. Several of the case study airports visited by the research team had tried them with mixed results. Some had great success with them, others replaced the fixture not long after the project was completed.

36 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design Some products have sustainable effects in collateral areas. Drinking fountains can have a water bottle filler attachment that allows travelers to bring their own (empty) water bottle through security and fill it before boarding. This reduces the amount of plastic bottles that would need disposal. Another innovation is faucets and flush valves with small turbines that power the fixtures’ automatic sensors via water flowing through the spout. This eliminates the need for batteries or connecting to building power. Note that automated toilets are required to have emergency backup power. These requirements may also apply to self-powered and battery- powered models. 3.1.3 Universal Design The concept of universal design has been around for decades. It goes beyond providing accessibility for persons with disabilities, primarily enforced by ADA and translated to archi- tecture through ANSI A117.1. The intent of universal design is to create spaces and components that everyone can use, regardless of mobility, age, status in life, and most recently gender identification. So far, in the United States at least, cultural diversity has not been a major thrust of universal design (e.g., provision of squat toilets common to Asian and African travelers), but it may come. In the focus group for travelers with disabilities (Appendix D: Focus Group Summaries), the comment was made by a person with limited vision that universal design should also mean that fixtures are always in the same relative location. For example, the toilet paper dispenser could always be on the right side of a stall. For this person, every visit to a restroom was a searching expedition. Given that the traveling public comes from all walks of life and all corners of the globe, it is important to consider universal design, especially from the perspective of providing excel- lent customer service. With our increasing elderly population, for example, accommodation for limited mobility, visual and hearing impairments, and slower movement is no longer just the realm of the accessible stall (see Appendix I: Airport Restroom of the Future). In addition, small children and persons of short stature need to reach the faucet and transgender persons need restrooms that are welcoming where they can feel comfortable. In fact, comfort is the key. When a person is uncomfortable, for whatever reason, it is a distraction and degrades their experience; exactly the situation this guidebook endeavors to eliminate. Accommodating universal design, however, is not an easy task. Almost every opportunity is in conflict with another. For example, the accessible, 18-inch-high toilet seat works well for transferring from and to a wheelchair. This height, however, can create problems with bowel movements. The elderly, for example, often need to assume a squat position. An expert on dis- abilities is an invaluable individual to have on-call for the restroom team. Responding to Disability As members of the restroom team interact with people with disabilities, they may feel tongue-tied as they try to communicate without using words that may sound insensitive or offensive. The Minnesota State Council on Disability has a helpful booklet, “Responding to Disability: A Question of Attitude,” that provides guidance to navigate interactions for those who haven’t had the opportunity to get to know people with disabilities. It is also available online at: www.reachable. org/content/responding-disability-question-attitude-9.

Design 37 3.2 Standardization It is in the best interests of the airport to develop a standard for restroom design. This will provide consistency throughout the airport, which will help with wayfinding, streamline the design and construction process, and make the maintenance process more efficient. The standard should include the following: • Prototype layouts • Products • Finishes and colors A sample standard from one of the airports that participated in the Airport Managers Survey and Case Studies is included in Appendix F: Restroom Design Guidelines/Standards Sample. Like the master plan, this is a living document—products are discontinued, new innovations come to market, etc. It should be updated with each project and reviewed every five years in periods without restroom work. 3.3 Components The components are the heart of the design—the materials and products that fit out the space. This section provides guidance in the initial selection of each of these. Research needs to be undertaken by the restroom team to understand what components fit best within the airport’s customer service, operations, and fiscal philosophies. Because of the extreme wear and tear on components in airport restrooms, it can be difficult to find products that are durable while not looking utilitarian. Given the quantities needed in an airport, customization of existing products is a viable option as is engaging manufacturers to develop new products to fulfill a specific need. See the product development focus group in Appendix D for guidance through this process. 3.3.1 Signage Concourse Wayfinding When a traveler deplanes, often the first priority is finding the restroom. Likewise, after a long drive to the airport and facing lines at both the ticket counter and security checkpoint, a quick stop at the restroom is in order. If restrooms are not readily visible from gates and after checkpoints, clear directions to the nearest restrooms are critical (see Figure 3-1). Figure 3-1. Wayfinding sign.

38 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design Wayfinding signage for restrooms often consists of the international men/women symbol on an overhead sign with an arrow. It can be useful for travelers unfamiliar with the airport to indicate the distance in feet, especially if there are restrooms in different directions. While locations are typically shown on directories, providing a phone app with the restrooms highlighted, especially in relation to a person’s current location, is a great customer service feature. Location Sign Airports have become as cluttered as highways with signs of every size, shape, and color cluttering the visual field, making it is easy for travelers to miss the restroom sign. Therefore, it is the recommendation of this guidebook to forgo the ubiquitous blade sign and let the restroom speak for itself. Using an iconic façade and entry on restrooms throughout the airport would help travelers to recognize them and thus eliminate the need for identifying signs. That said, some indication will be needed, from a distance of about 50 feet, to identify which entry is for which gender. Airports are beginning to use bold colors, text, or graphics to draw attention, sometimes with a playful sense of humor. Room Name and Number Accessibility and building codes typically require that a sign be provided that identifies the name and the number of the room. Specific requirements for size and location should be verified. Room signs also allow the facilities staff to locate doors or openings for maintenance and emergencies. The aesthetic of the room sign is often an afterthought and the airport’s standard room signage— often a basic, primary-colored plastic plate adhered to the frame head—is installed; however, consideration should be given to integrating the sign into the overall design by, at minimum, using a color and/or material that complements the design palette. Room names should be brief so they can be quickly read. There is no need to use the word “room” on the sign, because it is commonly understood that the sign is for a room. So, use “family” instead of “family room.” What’s in a Name? A lot more than one may realize. The current names used to identify a single-toilet restroom carry the perception of exclusion. Family, companion care, special needs, unisex—each of these names imply the space is intended for a specific group. Unlike an accessible stall or room, which is specifically designed and reserved for persons with disabilities, these rooms are for multiple occupants with a variety of needs that are difficult to manage in a typical restroom. As the room names convey, the users might be a parent with child(ren), a person assisting a companion with mobility impairment, or a transgender person who finds both male and female restrooms uncomfortable. Despite the different names, however, all of these rooms have the same components. So what is the right name? That is a challenge that from a universal design standpoint is in need of resolution. It may even be a springboard for a broader social revolution regarding restrooms. See Appendix I: Airport Restroom of the Future.

Design 39 Accessible Stall In larger restrooms, it can be beneficial to provide a symbol graphic identifying the accessible stall(s). This can be on the door or on the wall next to the door, as long as it is clear which door is to the stall. Rather than the symbol being applied as a sticker or other applied signage material, which is vulnerable to damage in a high-use area such as this, the symbol can be integrated into the surface material. Stainless steel, for example, could have the symbol etched into the surface (make sure there is enough contrast for the visually impaired). The FAA Office of Civil Rights requires indication on the exterior of a restroom if it has an ambulatory stall(s). It is also helpful to identify the ambulatory stall within the restroom. In a typical restroom, the ambulatory stall is the one with the slightly wider door. That is a subtle difference for wayfinding. Unfortunately, there is not a standard symbol for ambulatory stalls. Following this guidebook’s recommendations, the typical stalls would all be ambulatory, although this would not be known until the doors are opened. The FAA does waive the external indication requirement if all the typical stalls are ambulatory. Employees Wash Hands This is another type of sign that is often an afterthought. The project is finished and a variety of informational signs are attached to the walls with double-sided tape or screws. Anything applied to the walls becomes a cleaning obstacle. If possible, the sign should be recessed with the wall material so the surface remains flush and smooth. A simple technique to recess signage is to print the sign graphic on the back surface of a one-quarter-inch sheet of tempered glass. Affix the glass to the substrate with double-sided tape for easy future replacement. Make the opening in the surface one-eighth inch larger than the glass on all sides and seal the gap with clear sealant. Like the toilet accessories, signs within the restroom should be deliberately organized on the wall to create simple composition. Advertising An ad or flat screen above the urinal or on the inside of the stall door seems like an ideal place to generate extra revenue with the captive audience. Resist the temptation, however. As mentioned previously, travelers are already overstimulated moving through the airport and tired from the processes of air travel. “Rest” is an important syllable in the room name. To optimize customer service, keep the space calm and free of unnecessary distractions. 3.3.2 Amenities Waiting Area/Seating Many travelers fly with a companion or family. Providing seating by the restroom for those finished early or waiting is a welcome accommodation, especially for the elderly or those travel- ing with children. It can be as simple as a bench or a small sitting group. The debate is whether to provide power and USB. This is becoming commonplace at most new airport seating. The drawback is that it invites persons to camp out with their laptops, thus negating the waiting area. Full-Length Mirror Travelers appreciate an opportunity to check that all their clothes are back in place before rejoining the public. Locate a tall mirror where it can be viewed when exiting the restroom (but not where it can provide a sightline into the restroom) and ideally out of the flow of traffic. Like

40 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design the hand-washing type signs, the mirror should be recessed in the finish material so that it is flush and sealed around the perimeter. This protects the edges from damage and the silvering from moisture. Keep the bottom of the mirror about eight inches off the floor, clear of cleaning equipment. Consider setting the top in line with the top of door frames to help compose the wall elements and ensure that tall travelers also have a full-height view. Make-up/Grooming Area Some airports opt to eliminate mirrors at the sinks to minimize dwell time. Whether or not this strategy is employed, a separate make-up/grooming area can help with traffic flow. A small shelf should be provided for a purse or bag and an outlet for shavers and the like. Side-lighting is important to avoid facial shadows. A small hand sink is a nice accommodation but not necessary if there are mirrors at the typical sinks. This amenity can be combined with the full-length mirror and, like that feature, should be located on the exit path but out of the way of traffic. Dressing Room Having a small space to change clothes with room to open a suitcase was identified as a desired amenity a number of times on the research team’s focus groups and surveys. A toilet stall is not quite big enough although a designated stall without a toilet and with a bench would work well. Adult Changing Table Similar to a baby changing station, the adult version is also intended for changing diapers. Persons with mobility impairments will likely need to be changed during the travel time when flying. Usually they have a traveling companion to change them. At present, the common option is to lie on the floor in the accessible stall—far from desirable or customer-friendly. This type of room is an emerging trend. Other public institutions, the University of Minnesota, for example, require this in new projects. An adult changing table is typically freestanding. Some have height adjustability, important for the companion doing the changing. There are no regulations at this time, but it seems a reasonable accommodation, like lactation rooms for traveling mothers, is to provide a room at each concourse and other key nodes. Severe Weather Shelter A restroom block is an intuitive place to provide a shelter for severe weather such as tor- nadoes, hurricanes, etc. Restroom blocks are rigid with a network of pipes and conduit and are often constructed with concrete block partitions. Note that terminology is important. “Safe rooms” and “storm shelters” have specific requirements by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the International Code Council (ICC) that need to be met to use those identifiers. Severe weather shelters are the most common type of shelter used in airports. The Metro- politan Emergency Managers Association has a useful checklist to determine the best spaces for shelters within the facility. If the restroom has windows, security film should be installed to protect against airborne projectiles. Again, signage should ideally be incorporated into the material palette (Figure 3-2). Amenity Node A restroom block is a great location for an adjacent FIDS. It can be checked by travelers while waiting for a companion and can be essential in creating one-stop “amenity nodes” throughout

Design 41 the airport that travelers will come to recognize and seek out. The following components also should be considered for location in the restroom amenity node: • Automated external defibrillator • Fire extinguisher • Manual fire alarm pull station • Airport phone • Vending machines • Shipping drop boxes • Lockers Another adjacency is the service center (typically carrels where travelers with long layovers can plug in and work). Shortening the distance to the restroom is a welcome convenience. Note that the amenities in the node are ideally recessed in the wall or alcoves so as not to compromise circulation. Art/Display Some airports have an art program where a percentage of every project’s cost is set aside for public art. Restrooms are an ideal place to incorporate art. It might be integrated into the iconic image or can be housed in display cases for revolving exhibits. Storage Whether the mop sink is located in the pipe chase or a dedicated janitor’s closet, accessories for organizing maintenance tools and supplies should be provided. This typically includes wall racks and rack-shelving. Note that the shelves should be on wheels so they can be moved to clean up leaks or spills. The cleaning and plumbing managers should be consulted to confirm what needs to be stored at each location. Figure 3-2. Sign for severe weather shelter integrated into finishes.

42 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design 3.3.3 Surfaces Partition Structure See Appendix A for component comparisons. The floors and ceiling/roof structure is a given. The restrooms are constructed between the concrete and steel that supports the entire building. The perimeter interior partitions, however, have options. Note that “partitions” do not support weight from above as opposed to “walls” which are part of the building structure. There are two basic partition types: concrete masonry units (CMU) and metal studs. CMU are more durable and should always be used at plumbing walls as metal will rust from leaks. CMU are heavy and some older airports do not have the structural capacity in the deck to carry such a concentration of heavy walls. If metals studs need to be used for structural or budgetary reasons, a concrete curb provided under the studs will keep them off the floor in case of large spills. This is especially critical in pipe chases. Floor See Appendix A for component comparisons. The use of large-format porcelain tiles with thin one-sixteenth-inch maximum grout joints, thin porcelain stoneware slabs with adhered butt joints, or seamless terrazzo is recommended for the restroom floors. A seamless surface eliminates the clicking sound of rolling luggage, which adds to the din already common in restrooms. Note that comments were made in the research team’s focus groups that for people with visual disabilities, the clicking sound helps them discern if others are around. Seamless floors also avoid mold and bacteria build-up that can happen with grout. The slip-resistance of floor materials should conform to building code requirements so as not to create a hazardous condition if the floor is wet. Note that glossy floors are not necessarily more slippery. Water can collect in textured surfaces creating a highly perilous surface. Grout should be a medium gray as stains and the cleaning process over time result in a mop- water gray color. The colors of dirt vary in different regions of the country so one technique is to match the dust color found in the airport. It is recommended that flooring in pipe chases and janitor’s closets have a waterproof traffic coating that continues up the wall four inches to contain leaks in the space. Storage rooms without plumbing fixtures can simply have sealed concrete. Effects of Uric Acid Splashed urine on floors and walls is a prevalent maintenance issue in high-use restrooms. Over time, the materials become stained then break down while the urine odor pervades the space. The key to mitigation is not the material but rather how well it is sealed. It is not enough to have seamless flooring or wall finishes. If there are tiny holes in the surface, uric acid–borne bacteria will find its way under the sealer and propagate, turning into mold and mildew and the associated stains and smells. There are numerous commercial cleaners available to tackle urine spills, but the first line of defense is completely sealed antimicrobial flooring.

Design 43 Wall Base See Appendix A for component comparisons. Often the wall base is the same material as the wall surface. Consider using a different base color from the wall and floor to aid low-vision customers trace their way through the space. The National Institute of Building Sciences recommends that the value contrast of floors/doors to walls have a light reflectance value difference of 30 to define space and passageways. Design trends are moving away from a cove base to a right-angle base. Cleaning crews find the right-angle transition easier to clean because the equipment can get tight to the walls. Cove bases can also be expensive if there are many corners (e.g., niches) and are less flexible for future expansions or modifications Wall See Appendix A for component comparisons. Large-format porcelain with tiles one-sixteenth-inch grout joints are the current trend for wall surfaces in airports; however, new wall materials in much larger sizes have been developed that should be considered. Wide floor-to-ceiling porcelain stoneware (one-eighth-inch thick) or quartz wall panels (three-eighths-inch to one-half-inch thick) create an elegant, monolithic appearance. Edges are butted together and sealed with hairline-thin epoxy resin sealant. Another design feature of these monolithic panels are the ease of inserting flush graphics and text with contrasting colored material using water jet cutting. Graphics are flush with the wall panel surface so are easily cleaned. Metallic braille can also be countersunk into the wall panels. Accent wall tiles of various types and sizes offer design opportunities to add punches of color, reflectance, and/or texture. Avoid placing less durable tiles in locations that are susceptible to wear and tear from luggage and other personal belongings. Consider again grout color (lighter tones stain and become dirty) along with cleaning implications. Last, be aware that most tiles bow slightly in the middle in one of the directions. A running bond pattern can show this slight differential between the tile faces. Instead use a stack bond or one-third running bond pattern. Ceiling See Appendix A for component comparisons. Ceilings in restrooms serve multiple utilitarian functions. They reflect light, can dampen sound, and provide access to mechanical and electrical equipment above. From an aesthetic perspective, ceilings help organize the rooms and influence how cramped or open a space feels. Lighter colors, usually white, provide the greatest light reflectance and feel the most open. Higher ceilings in the traffic areas can make this crowded area feel less claustrophobic, while low soffits or ceilings over the stalls add to the sense of privacy. In the room prototype described in Chapter 2, articulated ceilings and soffits can be used to visually group the stalls or sinks together to reinforce the “room” concept. With all the hard surfaces on the floors, walls, stall partitions, and fixtures, the ceiling is really the only opportunity for noise mitigation. Materials should be carefully considered as some airports have periodic hose-downs of the restrooms in their cleaning cycle. Perforated metal ceiling panels have essentially replaced linear metal ceilings commonly used in airports in the past. They are more durable and perform very well acoustically. They also come in larger sizes, which minimize the joints. A variety of hinge and sliding mechanisms make even large panels (up to ten feet long) easy to move for access without damaging the panels.

44 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design Painted gypsum board is among the most prevalently used materials, especially on soffits, due to its simple aesthetic, ease of repair, and relatively low cost. Acoustically it is not very good and if access is required above the ceiling, access panels will need to be provided. These clutter the ceiling plane and over time, the finish tends to get chipped and fingerprinted. Stall Partitions/Urinal Screens See Appendix A for component comparisons. Stall partitions are often the largest surface area in a restroom so the durability, design detailing, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance are important considerations. A wide range of materials are available for different intensities of use. Softer stones such as marble and limestone are not rec- ommended because of their inherent nature to crack, chip, break, and absorb moisture and stains. Consider lower and moderately priced partition systems for less public areas (employee areas, etc.) in the airport and moderately to higher priced partition systems for greater performance and aesthetics for the most public airport restrooms. Partitions should not be mounted less than six inches up from the finished floor to allow floor cleaning equipment to get underneath. ANSI A117.1-2003 requires a nine-inch-high toe clearance in accessible stalls for wheelchair maneuvering. This requirement is waived if the stall is six inches larger in both directions. Manufacturers often recommend a space at the bottom of 12 to 14 inches. This makes personal belongings on the floor extremely vulnerable to theft and can also compromise privacy. Most standard partition panels are 58 inches high. Per standard recommendations, this puts the top of the panel at 70 inches above the floor. Increasing the panel height and lowering the mounting height of the panel provides better security and privacy. There are several partition system types to choose from. Cleaners prefer ceiling-hung systems, but their primary drawback is that there is no lateral stiffness. When stall doors swing open, the stall system moves; sometimes to the point of disengaging the door latch in adjacent stalls so those doors pop open. If a ceiling-hung system is chosen, it is recommended by manufacturers that a floor-to-ceiling pilaster be dropped at every three stalls maximum. Structural support is required above the ceiling. Note this system is not feasible with heavier partition materials. Floor-and-ceiling-mounted systems are recommended by manufacturers for busy restrooms, like airports, that are susceptible to abusive treatment (from luggage) and vandalism. These systems also require structural support above the ceiling but are far more rigid and durable. Two other system options include floor mounted and floor mounted/overhead braced. The first requires a two-inch penetration into the concrete deck/slab for anchoring and is also less rigid than floor and ceiling mounted. The last variation of floor mounting has a continuous overhead metal brace at approximately seven feet off the ground. While this system is also quite rigid, a common issue is vandalism from a person hanging from the metal bar, although anti-grip profiles are available. Urinal screens should be the same height as the stall partition panels for visual continuity and privacy [Paruresis (i.e., shy bladder syndrome) impedes the quick turnover of restroom occupants]. If the recommended floor-and-ceiling-mounted stall partition system is being used, the same pilasters should be used at the urinal screens for extra strength and design consistency. Partition hardware often comes as part of a manufacturer’s package. Aesthetically, hardware has been the weak link in stall systems. Further development is needed to address a number of issues. A big one is the gap between panels that can be up to an inch wide. This essentially leaves the occupant on display from the front and the sides. Continuous brackets are available that cover the length of the gap, but they tend to look industrial. Latches typically have small knobs

Design 45 that are difficult to operate for the mobility impaired. Ideally, a person should be able to unlatch the door with their wrist. Occupancy indicators are available but should not be necessary if the doors swing out. Adjust- able hinges are available so that, when not latched, a door can close to a position a few inches from completely shut. This allows potential users to see that the stall is unoccupied. Also, the standard colors of occupancy sensors (red for occupied, green for vacant) are indistinguishable for the color blind. Stall Doors Similar to stall partition materials, a variety of materials for stall doors are available for different intensities of use. These are typically the same materials as the stall partition panels. However, partition materials like quartz and granite should not be used for stall doors because they are too heavy for commercially available hardware and a swinging door made from these materials could cause bodily harm to a person hit by one. For these partition materials, stainless steel doors are recommended. Stainless steel is available in a variety of finishes and textures. Careful review by the restroom team is important as some finishes hide fingerprints well but may be more time- consuming to maintain. Counters/Backsplash See Appendix A for component comparisons. Few surface materials are recommended for counters and backsplashes due to their heavy use, potential graffiti, and chemical reaction with water and various liquids such as fingernail polish and remover. Stone, quartz, and solid surface materials are the most durable for these restroom conditions. Softer stones such as marble and limestone are not recommended due to their inherent nature to crack, chip, break, and absorb moisture and stains. Historically, restrooms have been planned with countertops with cutouts for the sinks below. A common complaint by travelers is that the countertops are always wet from dripped water leading to the hand-drying station. This leaves no place for their belongings. A better configuration is to eliminate the counter (one less surface to clean) and provide wall-mounted sinks. A shelf behind the sink (as described in Section 3.3.4: Accessories) offers a dry place for belongings. Room Doors See Appendix A for component comparisons. It is rare that airport restrooms have entrance doors anymore. The constant opening and closing wears out the doors and hardware quickly and impedes traffic flow. An open, labyrinth-type configuration with efficient two-way traffic is more common now. Doors are used on smaller rooms, however, like family rooms and pipe chases. Finishes for these doors should be durable. To prevent collisions, doors should not swing into public corridors. Stainless steel doors and frames hold up well for the family room and visible doors within the restroom. This finish ties in well with the stainless steel accessories in the space. Less visible doors and adjacent doors to utility spaces are typically painted steel. Most airports have a standard for their construction. A consideration is that the paint tends to get chipped and marked, especially from cart traffic and so will need periodic refinishing. A kick plate adds protection but has a utilitarian feel. Wood doors are also common. The pattern of the grain is more forgiving to scratches and marks than a solid-color-painted door. They also add a spot of natural visual warmth in what can otherwise be a sterile environment with all the hard surfaces. A kick plate should also be used on the push side.

46 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design The airport’s standard hardware should be used for these doors with the exception of the family room. Access to the family room should be touchless like everything else within the space. This requires a complex hardware configuration that ideally includes the following: • An automatic door opener and closer on both sides • An automatic locking button on the inside (the interior door opener unlocks the door as does manually turning the lever) • Two light-emitting diode (LED) indicators (“open” and “in use”) on both sides of the door Wall Protection Corners are vulnerable to damage in airports from traveler’s belongings, maintenance carts and equipment, etc., especially in restrooms where it is crowded and space is limited for maneuvering. Even the hardest stone materials are susceptible to damage along the edges. Manufactured stainless steel profiles are available for most thicknesses of tile; however, once materials get thicker than three-eighths inch, these trim pieces can also be easily dented. For thicker materials, consider custom corner guards made of thicker walled stainless steel tubing with tabs welded to the non-visible side for securing to the substrate. 3.3.4 Accessories The majority of accessories are dispensers or receptacles. Larger manufacturers of restroom accessories have models for most of the functions discussed in this section. Ideally, accessories are from the same manufacturer in the same style (see Section 4.1.3). This provides aesthetic continuity throughout the space and streamlines long-term maintenance on the units. It also typically provides a single key for the various dispenser locks, which streamlines the maintenance process. With so many separate accessories scattered throughout the restroom, careful consideration should be given to organizing them on the walls to avoid visual clutter. Grouping the accessories within the stalls on one wall is one strategy that has the added benefit of through-bolting the same accessories in the adjacent stall on the opposite side of the partition, providing a more durable installation. Accessories in restrooms should be located consistently throughout the airport. This is particularly helpful for the visually impaired. Mirror To reduce dwell time, some airports have opted not to place mirrors at the sinks and instead provide a mirror or two on a blank wall for grooming and last-minute clothing checks. Regardless of the location, mirrors should ideally be tempered so that if broken they do not result in sharp shards that could be used as weapons. The downside is that the current manufacturing process distorts the clarity of larger-size mirrors. This issue will likely disappear in the coming years as the process is improved. The silvering behind mirrors is vulnerable to damage by cleaning solvents that contain ammonia so the edges and back should be sealed and protected from any moisture penetration. ANSI A117.1-2003 requires that the bottom of the reflective surface must be no higher than 40 inches above the finished floor for mirrors above sinks and counters (check local codes for modifications) and 35 inches in other locations. A frequent design-to-construction error is that the opening height for the bottom of the mirror (the backsplash typically) is at 40 inches. Therefore the reflective surface is slightly higher and thus non-compliant. See Section 3.3.8 for information on mirrors with integral lighting.

Design 47 Paper Towel Dispenser See Appendix A for component comparisons. Airports have been moving away from folded paper towels toward more economical and eco-friendly paper towel rolls. Touchless models are the most sanitary. Note that touchless does not necessarily mean powered; if only the paper pulled out is touched, the model is hygienically sound. Sensor-operated dispensers, however, are usable by persons with almost any mobility impairment. More models are being offered with a stainless steel finish, which is more durable than other materials and blends well with other accessories in the restroom that are typically stainless steel. Stainless steel enclosures that cover the plastic dispenser are also available; however, they may cover the sensor on automatic models. Paper Curiously, one of the big drivers in airport restroom design is paper, primarily the stock for paper towel and toilet paper dispensers. There are many variables to consider—paper thickness, number of plies, folded or rolls, regular or jumbo. There can be significant long-term cost savings with adjustments to any of these variables. Focusing on the cost factor alone, however, can ultimately compromise customer service and maintenance. The vendors that supply the paper typically provide the dispensers at no or low cost, which are often plastic and not the most durable product. While the vendor will replace broken dispensers, until that happens, travelers encounter a dispenser that does not work or perhaps has a big crack in the face. That experience within the short time that travelers are in the airport will leave a long-lasting impression that may affect their future choices in layovers and destinations. The governing authorities of some airports require that bidding occur as frequently as every year for vendors. This can create a maintenance nightmare for the airport if the vendors change every year or two. One airport interviewed in the case studies, whose vendors did not provide dispensers, complained that every new vendor had a “new and improved” paper delivery system resulting in a half-dozen dispenser models throughout the airport that required their own sets of spare parts and required more space to stock the different types of paper. Restrooms are among the most expensive spaces per square foot. The restroom team spends months planning and designing a space that is welcoming, calming, and memorable. So why leave the intended experience to chance by waiting to see which vendor is awarded the annual bid and what dispenser they will provide. What are the odds that the red plastic cover on the paper towel dispensers will complement the elegant restroom interior? One-ply toilet paper versus two-ply is an ongoing debate in the industry. Some say that people will use less toilet paper with more plies. Others counter that people pull out their preferred amount regardless of waste, so the thinner product may as well be provided. The answer is elusive, but a clue lies in an encountered airport where the airport staff restrooms provide two-ply paper while those for the customers are one-ply.

48 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design Sink Area Waste Receptacle See Appendix A for component comparisons. The waste receptacle is one of the primary contributors to the perception of a restroom as “unclean.” This is due to both overflowing trash—typically paper towels, but also food, diapers, etc.—and large, visually dominating receptacles. To eliminate both of these conditions, the com- mon waste disposal method in recent airport restrooms consists of an opening in the counter with a trash container underneath in a secured enclosure. Typically there is one waste opening between each pair of sinks. Locating the trash under the counter efficiently takes advantage of otherwise unused space. It also creates an opportunity for additional storage for soap refills, cleaning supplies, paper products, etc. Traditional surface-mounted and recessed waste units are also available combined with a paper towel dispenser above, which saves wall space and eliminates wall clutter. Stainless steel waste containers should be lined to make cleaning easy and prevent corrosion. Note that while a flipper door helps conceal the trash inside, the door becomes a germ farm and, depending on what has smeared on the door as it was deposited, can be quite repelling. Hand Dryer See Appendix A for component comparisons. Hand dryers have evolved significantly in recent years. Attention to the disposition of water blown off hands, energy use, accessibility, noise, and hygiene has fostered design innovation in mounting methods, air movement, and refinements to improve the user’s experience. All hand dryer styles are available touchless and these should be used. Most hand dryers are separate units although there are sink units available with integral hand dryers. Issues remain regarding the noise levels, which can be especially troublesome for some hear- ing aid users. One participant in the research team’s focus groups commented that the noise frequency can leave her “deaf” for several minutes. See the sidebar in Section 2.5.1 for further information on hand dryers versus paper towels. Biohazard Disposal See Appendix A for component comparisons. The familiar red plastic disposal for needles is a mainstay of airport restrooms. For those requir- ing regular injections, such as diabetics, the receptacles are vital for safe disposal. In some airports, however, primarily on the landside (non-secure) side of the terminal, these disposals are also a target of vandalism as needles are stolen for further use. Thus, durability is as important as visibility and location with stainless steel enclosures being preferred to plastic. The full container is typically replaced by maintenance with an empty one and collected by the airport’s biohazard vendor. Toilet Paper Dispenser See Appendix A for component comparisons. Like paper towel dispensers, toilet paper dispensers are often provided by the paper vendor. Within the stall, however, plastic models are especially vulnerable to damage from carry-ons, etc. Stainless steel models are available for both standard and jumbo rolls. The larger rolls reduce refill frequency but take up more space. To alleviate this, the rolls are often turned sideways. This arrangement, however, can be difficult for those with limited motion in their hands or arms. Also, when mounted below grab bars, the toilet paper comes out uncomfortably low.

Design 49 Multiple-roll models are commonplace and highly recommended. Coreless rolls are available that reduce waste but can be difficult to install correctly. Combination units that combine the toilet paper dispenser with a waste receptacle or a seat paper dispenser help reduce the clutter of accessories within the stall. Through-partition dispensers that have access from adjacent stalls reduce the projection of the dispenser into the stall. Recessed models achieve this better but require thickened partitions instead of panels. The location of the paper outlet is narrowly defined in ANSI A117.1-2003 as are other accessories found in combination units. Be sure to check for modifications in the local code. Stall Waste Receptacle See Appendix A for component comparisons. Traditionally, waste disposals have been provided only in women’s stalls for sanitary products. With the increase of elderly travelers and people with disabilities, providing a disposal for adult diapers allows more dignity to the user than the alternative and provides a receptacle for general trash instead of the toilet. Disposals that are big enough to accommodate an extra-large men’s diaper should be used. Seat Paper Dispenser See Appendix A for component comparisons. No matter how well a restroom is maintained, some people are simply wary of unseen germs and are uncomfortable sitting, exposed, on a surface where only a minute before someone else sat. And sometimes, the toilet seat is visibly soiled and no other stalls are available. Seat paper dispensers provide a flushable cover for users to sit on rather than hover. The dispenser should be installed either behind or to the side of the toilet. This unit is also available combined with a toilet paper dispenser. Again, a stainless steel enclosure is more durable than plastic. There are also automatic models available. When activated, a continuous clear plastic covering slides around the toilet seat. The used portion is automatically spooled in a container for later disposal. Shelf See Appendix A for component comparisons. Travelers are always carrying something—a bag, jacket, food. Even airport employees often have a planner, folders, etc. in hand. There needs to be a clean, dry place to put them in the restrooms. Counters are typically wet from splashing and from drips to the hand-drying station and floors are usually suspect. Shelves at the sink, in the stalls, and at the urinals have become a mandatory customer expectation. Preferred are built-in shelves integrated with the wall materials. These may be a recessed niche at the toilets and urinals or a continuous shelf behind the sinks. The shelves should be eight to twelve inches deep and above wet surfaces. Accessibility is important, even for the agile. Shelves behind sinks should be within easy reach (see Chapter 2 for recommended counter depths). Shelves in stalls at and near urinals should not be placed behind toilets and urinals. Such locations are typically awkward to reach and there is the hazard of dropping something into the fixture. Where budget is limited, shelves can be surface mounted but not where they would create a projection that someone may bump against. For space-constrained locations, stainless steel fold-down shelves are an option.

50 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design Hooks Hooks are useful both in the toilet stall, at urinals, and at sinks. Travelers often have a coat, bag, or purse they would rather not set on the floor due to concerns about cleanliness, theft, or both. Typically two hooks are provided, one above the other. The lower hook, at four feet off the floor, meets accessible reach requirements and a higher one at five feet or more will accommodate a long coat. Within stalls, hooks should never be mounted on the back side of the door as a common theft technique is to reach over the top while passing by and lifting a purse. Closer to the toilet is preferred too for access to sanitary products or injection materials for diabetics. A higher urinal screen allows for hooks there as well. At the sinks, hooks on a side wall or hand-drying column are convenient. Hooks should be a strong metal with secure mounting. There should be no sharp edges. They should project enough for a wide bag strap and hook upward to hold a garment. Sanitary Products Vendor This coin-operated dispenser can be set for different denominations. Newer models have a push button rather than a lever so it is accessible as well as less likely to break. These can be recessed (preferred) or surface mounted. One unit within a restroom is typically sufficient. More may be required in larger restrooms or if the restroom is divided into separate areas. Baby Diaper Changing Table See Appendix A for component comparisons. Durability is a key requirement for the changing table to ensure the safety of infants and to hold unintended loads like luggage or sitting adults. Changing tables can be purchased as a manufactured unit that is mounted to the wall and folds down or can be custom made as part of the counters. There are also hybrid models that consist of a manufactured changing platform that is secured to the countertop. Materials used should be easy to clean and antibacterial. Stone materials tend to be cold to the touch, so using a solid surface material under the pad can be more comfortable for babies. Most users will have a changing pad in their diaper bag, so providing a low enclosure with a strap that will keep the baby and pad in place is a sufficient accommodation. Baby Diaper Kit Vendor Most people traveling with babies are stocked with diapers, wipes, changing pad, etc.; however, sometimes a convenient dispenser can save the day. Providing one dispenser outside each restroom block, ideally near the family room, should be sufficient although one can also be installed at each changing table. The dispensers are coin operated and typically provide a diaper, wipes, a paper liner, and a disposable bag. 3.3.5 Plumbing Plumbing design is critical to the restroom. It needs to be well thought out, organized, clean, and functional. Each restroom should have its own set of shut-off valves to isolate the restroom block. In a new airport, a dedicated tempered water system should be used that can serve all of the hand sinks in the building. This system will allow for warm water at all times at the sinks; the comfortable water temperature for hand washing is 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

Design 51 When piping within the pipe chase is being designed, the pipe elevations should be drawn and organized to all fit into the chase. Ideally the waste piping should slope toward the chase door and a cleanout should be provided above the spill line to allow for easy access and the ability to clean out that piping as needed. If the cleanout is in the back, the maintenance staff must take their equipment all the way to the back of the chase. Enough space should be provided at the chase entry to allow the door to close when someone is working at that end. This conceals maintenance personnel from public view. In existing buildings, the slope of the existing sanitary mains will be critical in selecting fixtures. The slope in older plumbing systems is minimal and thus it is more advantageous to have more water running through the piping. Low-flow fixtures should be evaluated before installing. Sink See Appendix A for component comparisons. There are two options for hanging a sink: a concealed arm carrier or safety clips. A concealed arm carrier is much sturdier and safer and therefore requires a structural wall behind the sink to secure the carrier and piping. The clip option requires the proper backing to be on the wall to ensure structural integrity. Each sink should have a shroud that is easily removed, ideally by simply lifting (screws and fasteners should be avoided). Provide a trap and tailpiece of 17-gauge piping. If a shroud is not provided, trap and piping guards should be installed per the local accessible building code. Sink strainers should be made of stainless steel to prevent corrosion and discoloration. They should also have larger holes to prevent clogging. Providing a cleanout above the spill line of the sink will allow the maintenance staff to clean the piping without causing an overflow. Note this cleanout is only possible when a sink has a chase behind it. Even without a chase, a cleanout should be provided below each sink. For wall-mounted sinks, it is recommended to have a gap between the sink and the wall. This makes for one less maintenance-prone sealant joint and allows another option for spills to drain off surfaces that users want to place their belongings on. Faucet See Appendix A for component comparisons. Today’s market has ever-changing faucet designs and features to consider. First and foremost are water capacity and power consumption. Given the usage in airport restrooms, it is important that enough water, especially hot water, gets to the faucet. Energy savings are achievable with innovations like solar- and turbine-powered faucet sensors. Touchless faucets are both more hygienic and are preferred for accessibility. A recent innovation, proximity sensors, turns on the faucet by sensing the heat from a person’s hands rather than motion from fingers placed near the faucet. This prevents accidental activation. The spout shape should allow water to flow high and far enough out over the basin so the user’s hands do not touch the sink bowl. If possible, a mock-up of the sinks and faucets being considered should be set up to test for ease of activation, comfort, and unexpected splashing. Passengers expect warm water right away at the sink. The system design should bring the hot water main as close to the sink as possible.

52 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design Braided supply lines used in the installation of faucets can collect dirt and dust over time. Chrome-plated brass supply tubes should be used to avoid build-up. Also provide quarter-turn ball valves under the sinks instead of the multi-turn type for shut-off directly below the sink. If no shroud is provided on the sink, provide loose key quarter-turn ball valves to help prevent users from shutting off the water. Soap Dispenser See Appendix A for component comparisons. One of two types of soap are typically used in restrooms: foam soap or liquid soap. Both are available in bulk and usually bought in bulk through vendors. However, the advantages to foam soap are that smaller amounts are used, it washes through piping easier, and it removes bacteria from hands as effectively as, if not better than, liquid soap. Maintenance staff is typically stretched thin to keep up with the busyness of airport restrooms. Utilizing a bulk soap-dispensing system that is accessible for refill from the plumbing chase is ideal because it extends the period between refills. An advantage of a bulk soap system is that it can feed multiple dispensers. Use conduit to run the tubes to make sure they are not inadvertently cut. Run the tubes no higher than the dispenser output height to avoid drips. Traditional bottle dispensers are often stolen from underneath sinks if they are visible, which they unfortunately are. The half-empty plastic bottles of pink liquid hanging below the counters are an unsightly visual distraction. Toilet See Appendix A for component comparisons. The main difference in toilet designs is the flushing system: siphon jet versus blowout. The siphon jet utilizes a jet of water in the trapway to pull water out of the bowl. The blowout method displaces all the liquid (and its contents) in the toilet bowl. It is a more aggressive means of flushing but is more effective at removing solids, important for high-use restrooms like those found in airports. Their drawback is that they are startling loud. A wall-hung toilet is the best choice for an airport; however, with the increasing weight of travelers, it is important to be aware of the load limits toilets can carry. The average toilet is rated to hold 1,000 pounds of dead load. For this kind of weight, it is critical that the carrier and associated wall structure also be able to accommodate it. More than one story was shared in the research team’s case studies of a person sitting on a toilet that shared a back-to-back carrier with the toilet on the opposite side of the wall and being lifted into the air like on a seesaw when a heavy person sat on the opposite toilet. Provide cleanouts on the waste piping above the toilet spill line to allow for ease of maintenance. Install the carriers as flush to the chase wall as possible to allow for more space in the restroom. Provide water hammer arrestors for each restroom and make them accessible. All toilet seats should have all-stainless-steel bolts and springs (no plastic or zinc parts). Provide toilet seats with a soft close to prevent seats from slamming down and potentially breaking. Note that plumbing codes typically do not permit solid lids over the seat. Today, especially in certain parts of the country, water conservation is a critical function of a smart building. Capturing gray water (water from sinks or rain water) and reusing it in toilets and urinals is a great way to conserve and reuse relatively clean water. These systems are complex. The water needs to be properly processed as well as maintained and cleaned to prevent bacteria from traveling through the systems. The system will also need separate drainage to collect it and

Design 53 a separate distribution system to supply it to the necessary fixtures. Gray water can be cleaned both naturally and chemically. Urinal See Appendix A for component comparisons. Urinals are a staple in the American men’s restroom. They are very functional and are expedient in getting users in and out. When selecting a urinal, consider the aesthetics as this fixture is very visible. Their appearance should complement the design of the room. Within the urinal, it is important to consider flow. Waterless urinals have not been extremely successful, primarily due to installation and maintenance issues. For pint or other low-flow urinals, make sure that a sink or toilet is upstream on the waste piping of this fixture. This will help keep water flowing and help resist deterioration of the pipes from uric acid. Also consider the trap discharge. Many urinals have a lip at the discharge of the trap that can make them difficult to clean. Most urinals today are mounted on factory-provided mounting brackets that seem to work well to hang the units securely. Last, consider the space around the urinal. A long overdue development in urinal design is taller urinal options. Floor-mounted urinals that are set in the slab are a thing of the past due to sanitary issues. However, there is no reason urinals cannot all be low enough to accommodate persons of short stature and those with dis- abilities as well as those of tall stature. The typical men’s restroom has a row of urinals mounted at “standard” height and one urinal on the end that mounted at a lower height. From a universal design perspective, they should all be the same so that one is not highlighted as a fixture for those with special needs. Some airports are using targets in the urinals to prevent extra cleaning related to aiming, or lack thereof. There are small, printed stickers that can be applied with a variety of playful images. Custom designs are also possible. An embedded stainless steel ball and an image applied to the porcelain prior to glazing are other options some manufacturers provide. Toilet and Urinal Flush Valves See Appendix A for component comparisons. Flush valve selection decisions should consider type, location, and utility savings. Most travelers are looking for a touchless environment so an automatic flush valve is recommended. Low-flow water solutions as well as solar- and turbine-powered valves are available for water and power savings. Based on the restroom layout, a decision needs to be made whether to use a concealed or exposed flush valve. This decision will likely be driven by chase access for maintenance. If there is a chase behind the fixtures, a concealed flush valve has a much simpler look and can be accessed without the maintenance staff needing to be inside of the restroom. This design is also easier to clean than the exposed pipe and fittings. Drinking Fountain See Appendix A for component comparisons. Long days of traveling can be dehydrating so providing drinking fountains is important for the well-being of travelers. While the International Building Code requires only one drinking fountain per 1,000 occupants in a passenger terminal, it is good practice to provide one at each restroom set, in part because people generally associate drinking fountains with restrooms.

54 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design There are numerous aesthetic options for drinking fountains. Look for models that are acces- sible, easy to clean, and complement the aesthetics of the restroom façade. It is recommended that the drinking fountain(s) be located in an alcove off the hallway. This avoids having the person at the fountain bent out into the traffic flow. It also keeps their bags more protected if temporarily set on the floor. Drinking fountains are not permitted to project more than four inches past the primary cor- ridor wall per ANSI A117.1-2003. This protects persons with a visual disability who use a cane from walking into the side of the fixture. For locations where space is not available to adequately recess the drinking fountain or for retrofits, most manufacturers make cane-guards for recent models that are inexpensive and easily attached under the high fountain to bring the fixture bot- tom down to the 27-inch maximum height off the floor. Filtration on drinking fountains is recommended to provide clean and safe drinking water. The filters require maintenance in addition to the regular cleaning of the drinking fountain to remove debris collected in the drain. Bottle-Filling Station See Appendix A for component comparisons. Given the current restrictions on the amount of fluids allowed to be brought through airport security, the growing awareness of the public to recycling, and the cost of drinks within an airport, many travelers are looking to fill their personal water bottles during their travel instead. Bottle-filling stations mounted on drinking fountains have filled these needs and have become quite popular. Filtration on bottle fillers is recommended to provide clean and safe drinking water. Filters will require replacement. Automatic bottle fillers need to be cleaned regularly to help keep them dry and from growing mildew. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on reach for accessibility. Mop Sink Mop sinks are a well-used, abused, and integral part of restroom maintenance. These should be placed in easy-to-access locations in pipe chases. Provide one mop sink per set of restrooms. There should be at least 24 inches clear on two sides to allow for both a mop bucket and a person to fill the bucket. Given the use and abuse of mop sinks, they should be made of impact-resistant composite poly with an integrally molded drain along with a factory gasket and a removable stainless steel strainer. A stainless steel strainer will help prevent corrosion over time and unwanted material from getting down the piping. Bumper guards (vinyl) on the edges will help prevent chipping and wear. A splash guard made of stainless steel stretching 18 inches up the back wall of the mop sink will prevent dirty and corrosive water from getting on the wall. Provision of a hose, hose hanger, and mop hanger will help keep the area surrounding the mop sink organized and clean. If the mop sink is at the end of a branch, provide a cleanout per the local plumbing code dedi- cated to the mop sink. The trap of the mop sink is not considered a removable trap and thus the cleanout is needed. Ideally the cleanout is a wall cleanout on the back wall behind the mop sink. If this is not possible, provide a floor cleanout in the same room as the mop sink. The cleanout needs to be a full-size cleanout. Consider making the back wall six inches thick to allow enough room for the cleanout.

Design 55 Mop Sink Faucet While a faucet may seem like a simple, necessary accessory to the mop sink, there are many considerations to take into account. The faucet should have both a hot water and cold water supply. On each of those there should be check valves (whether integral or separate). Other must-haves include a support arm, atmospheric vacuum breaker, integral shut-offs, pail hook, chrome finish, and lever handles. Typically the faucet is installed approximately 48 inches above the finished floor or as called for in the manufacturer’s recommendations. If a third-party chemical dispenser is used, which is often an aftermarket item, a pressure bleeding device should be provided on the hose connection and the dispenser should be tested to ASSE 1052. Otherwise there is a risk over time of back-leaking soap into the water system. Hose-Bibb A hose-bibb is a necessary convenience for maintenance of airport restrooms. Whether a pipe needs to be flushed, a janitor needs additional water somewhere, or the cleaning process includes a periodic hose-down of the entire restroom, having a hose-bibb in an adjacent pipe chase or janitor’s closet is vital. Locate the hose-bibb near the chase door. Make sure the hose-bib has an atmospheric vacuum breaker (either integral or separate) to prevent back flow into the system. 3.3.6 Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Providing HVAC to the restroom is critical to perceived cleanliness and odor. With the right amount of ventilation, restrooms will smell better and users will enjoy the experience more. It will also allow for the elimination of air fresheners, which can often be overpowering, bothersome to people with allergies, and a maintenance hassle. Radiation Finned-tube radiation is a passive heating method used along exterior walls for both heating and reduction of condensation forming on windows and cold surfaces. Radiation covers should complement the overall restroom aesthetic. Stainless steel is a common choice as it is durable, easy to form, and matches other stainless steel elements in the space. Painted metal scratches easily and is not recommended. Covers with flat tops are to be avoided because people tend to sit, place luggage, or step on them. Consider a pointed or sloped top to provide additional strength and prevent dust collection. Make sure the surface is easy to clean if textured. Air Supply Supply air is not required in restrooms by most building codes because they are, ironically, not occupied spaces (they are considered transient). Providing supply air, however, is good practice. Given that the area surrounding the sinks is often wet, provide supply air below the sink. This will help dry the wet surfaces and will keep the area around the sinks a comfortable temperature. The space under the counter or sink is conducive to a linear diffuser for this purpose. For a clean look, run the diffuser from wall to wall. This will also allow for an equal distribution of air throughout the space. The ductwork will be located in the chase behind the sink and will need to be coordinated with the piping to ensure both have enough space. Coordinate with the plan layout as the chase will need a clear vertical run behind the sink and mirrors for the insulated duct, usually a minimum of eight inches, and space for the elbow from the diffuser to the duct.

56 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design If space is limited, at the very least provide supply air above the sinks to promote air mixing and eliminate short cycling of the air. Short cycling is when the air comes directly out of the supply dif- fuser and is sucked right back out through the exhaust without having time to condition the space. In single-fixture restrooms, like family rooms, it is also recommended to provide supply air. Where supplying air below the sink is not feasible, an overhead diffuser will still work well. Exhaust Without restroom exhaust, restrooms would be unpleasant places. Each restroom should have a dedicated restroom exhaust system with exhaust located directly above the stalls. Also provide a distributed diffuser system above each stall. This could be either a diffuser dedicated to each stall or one linear diffuser that runs above all of the stalls. Without exhaust above each stall, the air will take the path of least resistance and the stalls without exhaust may become stuffy. At least, the code-required exhaust should be provided in the restroom. Where possible, provide an occupied and unoccupied setting by using the spaces’ occupancy sensor and modulation of the fan. The code-required minimum should be the unoccupied setting; the occupied setting should be one and one-half times that. If the restroom has a restroom management system (RMS) as described in Section 3.3.9, the exhaust can be connected to provide a cleaning cycle that would be another one and one-half times the occupied setting. The cleaning cycle would allow for more air changes to occur in the space to remove cleaning chemical smells and help to dry floors wet from cleaning more quickly. This can be accomplished with either a standard exhaust fan with a variable frequency drive or an electronically commutated motor. Providing access panels on both sides of the exhaust fan will allow for duct cleaning because, over time, toilet paper dust builds up substantially in ducts and fans. Diffusers The aesthetic and layout of the space should be considered when selecting diffusers. Verify the diffuser finish with the architect. Placement of diffusers is explained in the exhaust and supply sections. Noise criterion level is not a major concern in restrooms since there are so many noises that a little white noise is often welcome. Squealing or fan noise, however, should be dampened. Thermostat Locate the restroom thermostat in an inconspicuous location to avoid tampering. A ceiling- mounted thermostat or a wall thermostat with no display would be the best type. This can only be installed in spaces with a building automation system, common in larger airports. 3.3.7 Electrical Aside from a receptacle for maintenance or cleaning, power is often overlooked in restrooms. Outlets for convenience power are a great amenity for travelers. Best locations are at mirrors and make-up/grooming counters to allow for a quick phone charge, shave, etc. Utilitarian functions that require power include for automatic sensors on plumbing fixtures, soap dispensers, and hand dryers and power tools in plumbing chases. All receptacles near moisture need to be the ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) type. There are two methods of ground-fault protection: at the circuit breaker and at the individual device. GFCI circuit breakers have better sensors and are less likely to nuisance trip, but they typically cost more and require the breaker to be reset (by facility staff). GFCI receptacles are a bit more cost effective and allow the user to reset the device, but they do trip more often. Refer to the National Electrical Code and local codes for exact ground-fault protection requirements.

Design 57 3.3.8 Lighting Of all the building systems, lighting can have the most dramatic effect on a space. In restrooms especially, lighting affects people’s perceptions of everything from cleanliness to noise levels. Bright lights can be jarring and make travelers appear garish. Muted lights are calming and can make the room feel “quiet,” a welcome benefit considering the whir of hand dryers and flushing toilets. Lighting that is too dark or a space filled with deep shadows is potentially hazardous as occupants bump through the space. They also make a person feel unsafe and the space seem dirty. The color temperature of lighting, measured in kelvin (K), is also a critical consideration. Warm white lights are in the 2700 K to 3000 K range. This coloration is similar to incandescent lamps. Cool white lights in the 3500 K to 4100 K range appear bright and are good for detailed tasks. Natural daylight is in the 5000 K to 6500 K range and is the coolest colored light. Cool lighting can bring out a bluish cast in a space. At the mirror, this can make a person appear like they have traveled for days rather than hours. Warmer color temperatures feel welcoming and soft. Colors and materials under consideration should always be reviewed under lighting that has the same lamp coloration as that to be used in the restroom space. General (Ambient) Lighting Ambient lighting fills the space as opposed to task lighting, which highlights areas of specific activity. Ambient light levels should be bright and even to provide a feeling of clean and airy not dark and dismal. This lighting type should provide approximately five foot-candles (FC) in the walk zones for safety, security, and cleaning. Task Lighting The following sections address different locations for task lighting. Entry. Lighting at the entries should accent signage that designates wayfinding, art, or other pertinent information. Lighting levels should not be too bright (or dim) such that users have a hard time transitioning visually from the adjacent area into or out of the restroom. Sink Area. Lighting at the sink should be oriented to provide even vertical illumination (from the sides) onto the face, but somewhat softly to avoid glare into the eyes. Lighting from above the mirror can supplement the vertical lighting but should not be the sole source as it casts shadows that make a person’s face look tired and gaunt. Vertical lighting should be evenly bal- anced on both sides of the face. Lighting integrated within mirrors works well to keep the walls clear of clutter and surfaces that collect dust. Recommended light levels at the sink area are 15 FC horizontal and 20 FC vertical. Toilet Stalls. Lighting at the utility wall or over the toilet stalls will offer a clean and crisp appearance. Providing a linear slot or a light panel along the toilet wall or downlights within each stall will assist in evenly lighting all locations. Recommended light levels are 15 FC. Note that lighting from above and behind the toilet can cast the stall in shadow when a person is finished and stands. Consider providing light from the walk aisle or adding a small downlight. Switch/Occupancy Sensor Occupancy sensors provide energy savings by switching off lighting when no one is present. Occupancy sensors can also be used more creatively, such as tying them into mechanical systems to increase ventilation when the space is occupied. Care needs to be exercised when selecting types of sensors for restrooms, so lighting does not go off when people are present. Line-of-sight sensors (for example, infrared) should not be used

58 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design in restrooms with partitions or walls that shield the sensor’s view of the space. Ultrasonic sensors placed too close to an entrance without a door may pick up people walking by and turn on lights when not needed. Dual technology (DT) sensors cost more but can “see” around walls and partitions, making them the best choice for larger restrooms. The time and sensitivity on devices should be properly set to provide maximum energy savings and minimum false offs. Lamps See Appendix A for component comparisons. Lamp types can have a significant impact on maintenance and operational costs for any facility. Longer-life fixtures can lower maintenance and operational costs but typically have a higher initial cost. LED lamps have long lamp life and good color temperatures and color rendering. The technology is changing rapidly, so fixtures and lamps selected now may be obsolete in the near future. Initial costs for LED lamps are higher than fluorescents and the drivers are likely to fail before the lamp expires. Maintenance costs are lower as relamping is rare. Fluorescent fixtures also have a long lamp life and good color temperature and color rendering. Relamping adds more cost over time. Ballasts for fluorescent fixtures also need to be maintained. Compact fluorescent lamps provide more flexibility for use but have a slight warm-up time before coming to full on. This may be bothersome in smaller restrooms where they are the only light source and an occupancy sensor is utilized to turn lights on. Daylight Daylight has an amazing effect on people. It can change their demeanor, especially after being cooped up in a crowded checkpoint or concourse. Many restrooms are located with at least one exterior wall. Unfortunately, these walls are usually opaque. Even curtain walls have metal panels instead of glass for privacy or for a pipe chase. With a little creative planning, daylight can be pulled into a restroom, enhancing even more the ambience of a calm oasis. Privacy is indeed important, so a good strategy is to provide a band of clerestory windows up high. For full-height glazing, a translucent white film up to the height where modesty is no longer a concern is recommended. Thin, clear strips toward the top of the glazed area can foster a connection to the outdoors without compromising privacy. Daylight can be borrowed from adjacent spaces, such as skylights in the concourse, again by provide strips of clerestory glazing. Equipment, such as aircraft de-icing rigs, that may pass nearby should be considered because equipment operators are often at a height where they can see in. Even if they cannot, the perception that they can may make restroom occupants uncomfortable. Shadows at night can also be unintentionally revealing, so lighting should be placed to avoid casting shadows on the glass. 3.3.9 Technology Some of the greatest customer service potential resides in the rapidly advancing realm of tech- nology. Ironically, because the speed of change is so fast, incorporating cutting-edge products into restrooms may not be the most practical long-term strategy. Attempting to do so may find the airport in a constant state of obsolescence as each project finds newer versions of previous products. Standardization would be nearly impossible. The key is to find balance between inno- vation, especially in areas of sustainability, and long-term integration of updated products into the restroom spaces.

Design 59 Fire Alarm Fire alarm design is based on national and local codes. The airport may choose to go over and above the code requirements for added protection and peace of mind. This typically will include smoke-detection coverage throughout the facility. A good strategy is to locate manual pull stations adjacent to the restrooms as restrooms typically occur at standard intervals throughout terminals (see “Amenity Node” in Section 3.3.2). Paging Paging is used to inform patrons of flight status and other important announcements. The volume needs to be loud enough to be intelligible, but not overpowering. In larger restrooms, ambient noise sensors might be utilized to increase/decrease the volume of pages. Depending on the type of fire alarm and paging system, the paging speakers can reinforce announcements from that system. Visual paging for the hearing impaired is also a requirement of the ADA and some airports have been sued for not providing this accommodation. With the clutter of accessories within the restroom, locating such a device can be a challenge. Providing FIDS outside the restroom, as recommended elsewhere in this guidebook, appears to be a reasonable accommodation; however, it has not been legally tested. Ambient Music Ambient music can be used to create a relaxed mood for travelers. In most facilities, the paging system has the ability to have an ambient music system input connected to it. Modest travelers appreciate the sound-masking properties of music as well. Restroom Management System Larger airports should consider incorporating an RMS. This system integrates several tech- nologies, including some of the following: • Card reader. Airports can leverage their existing card reader and badge systems to implement an RMS (see Figure 3-3). Cleaning personnel present their airport security badge to a card reader to indicate that the restroom is being cleaned. When the restroom is being cleaned, lighting and ventilation is increased through facilities automation controls. Displays near the restroom let passengers know that the restroom is being cleaned and where the nearest open restroom can be located. • Occupancy counter. Airports can clean restrooms based on the number of travelers that have visited the restrooms when they use occupancy counters. This helps the cleaning staff work more efficiently. • Video displays. A display, possibly integrated into the room entrance signage, can be used to indicate whether a restroom is open or closed for cleaning. This status can be generated by integration with the airport’s card reader system. The screen should also indicate the location and direction of the nearest open restroom. 3.4 Cost Analysis Airport restrooms are generally considerably more expensive than other types of public rest- rooms. If designed and constructed as recommended in this guidebook, they will require more space per person and use higher-quality materials. Managing the budget is a challenge. To help find the optimum balance in terms of customer service needs, life cycle costs, and the constraints on the construction costs, it is recommended that a professional estimator or contractor familiar with the local building climate be included on the restroom team.

60 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design The matrix in Appendix A provides guidance in making initial selections of products with numerous variations based on costs, life spans, and features. Section 3.4.2 provides a worksheet to help prioritize the components. Coupled with periodic cost estimates, these tools will help keep the scope of the project within the allocated budget. 3.4.1 Estimates If the restroom is not part of a larger building project, the restroom estimate should be prepared at the completion of the schematic design (when the general concept is complete). It should be a high-level estimate to test the scope based on system or square-foot costs. If the total is too high, the scope and quality of materials can be re-evaluated to meet the budget or the airport can elect to increase funding. About midway through the architect’s development of the construction documents, it is pru- dent to have a second estimate prepared. This estimate should be detailed, itemizing the labor and materials for each element in the project. This detailed estimate is the last chance to verify that the scope and quality is in conformance with the budget. It is much easier (and less costly) to make modifications at this point than after the bids are submitted. 3.4.2 Prioritization With so many components to consider, it can be an overwhelming task to narrow a proj- ect’s scope. Some components—floor materials, stalls, etc.—are easy; they are “must haves.” Others—a make-up and grooming area, for example—are extras that might be nice to have if there is sufficient space and budget. Table 3-1 lists the components described previously and provides a tool to identify components that are “Must Have,” that belong on the “Wish List” if resources can accommodate it, or in Figure 3-3. RMS with information monitor and backlit room sign. The card reader to activate maintenance features is located behind back-painted glass below the sign.

Design 61 M US T HA VE W IS H LI ST N O T IN TE RE ST ED COMPONENTS SIGNAGE Concourse Wayfinding Location Sign Room Name Room Number Accessible Stall Ambulatory Stall Employees Wash Hands Advertising AMENITIES Waiting Area / Seating Full-Length Mirror Make-up / Grooming Area Dressing Room Adult Changing Table Severe Weather Shelter Amenity Node AED Fire Extinguisher Manual Fire Alarm Pull Station Airport Phone Vending Machines Shipping Drop Boxes Lockers Service Center Art / Display Storage SURFACES Floor Porcelain Tile Porcelain Stoneware Slab Epoxy Terrazzo Wall and Base Porcelain Tile Porcelain Stoneware Panel Quartz Epoxy Terrazzo Cove Ceiling Gypsum Board Metal Panel Acoustic Ceiling Tile Stall Partition - Type Ceiling Hung Floor Mounted / Overhead Braced Floor Mounted Floor and Ceiling Mounted M US T HA VE W IS H LI ST N O T IN TE RE ST ED COMPONENTS Stall Partitions / Urinal Screens Powder Coated Steel Solid Plastic (HDPE) Phenolic Stainless Steel #4 Stainless Steel Textured Recycled Paper - Resin Core Solid Surface Quartz Granite Stall Doors Counter / Backsplash Stone Quartz Solid Surface Room Door Stainless Steel Painted Metal Wood Wall Protection ACCESSORIES Mirror Paper Towel Dispenser Folded Center Pull Roll Type Sink Area Waste Receptacle Free Standing Surface Mounted Recessed Enclosed Hand Dryer Top Access Bottom Access Through Access Recessed Faucet Mount Biohazard Disposal Exposed Surface Mounted Recessed Toilet Paper Dispenser Surface - Standard Roll Surface - Jumbo Roll Recessed - Standard Roll Recessed - Jumbo Roll Stall Waste Receptacle Surface Recessed Combination Table 3-1. Prioritization worksheet. Refer to Section 3.4.2 for information on worksheet organization. (continued on next page)

62 Guidebook for Airport Terminal Restroom Planning and Design M US T HA VE W IS H LI ST N O T IN TE RE ST ED COMPONENTS Seat Paper Dispenser Individual Combination Automatic Shelf Wall Mounted Fold Down Built In Hooks Sanitary Products Vendor Baby Diaper Changing Fold Down Counter - Surface Counter - Integral Diaper Kit Vendor PLUMBING Sink Wall Mount Under Counter Self Rimming Integral Trough Faucet Automatic Turbine Powered Solar Powered Manual Soap Type Foam Liquid Soap Dispenser Automatic Manual Soap Container Bulk Bottle Toilet Blow Out Siphon Jet Toilet Flush Valve Manual Automatic Turbine Powered Solar Powered M US T HA VE W IS H LI ST N O T IN TE RE ST ED COMPONENTS Urinal Standard Flow Waterless Low Flow Pint Urinal Flush Valve Manual Automatic Turbine Powered Solar Powered Drinking Fountain Bottle-Filling Station Manual Automatic Mop Sink Mop Sink Faucet Hose-Bibb HVAC Radiation Air Supply Exhaust Diffusers Thermostat ELECTRICAL Power LIGHTING General (Ambient) Entry Sink Area Toilet Stalls Switch / Occupancy Sensor Lamps LED Fluorescent Daylight TECHNOLOGY Fire Alarm Paging Ambient Music Restroom Management System (RMS) Card Reader Occupancy Counter Video Table 3-1. (Continued)

Design 63 which the restroom team has decided it is “Not Interested.” The orange headings are the pri- mary component groupings used throughout this chapter. The purple heading indicates that the component has sub-components. The blue headings indicate that the component has options (the bulleted items) that are compared in the component comparison matrix in Appendix A. Components should be considered that will have the greatest impact on the airport’s customer service needs, especially those that draw frequent complaints. Maintenance should also be con- sidered; for example, would desired components place additional burdens on the facilities staff in the long term? The component comparison matrix (Appendix A) can be used to narrow choices for those components with numerous alternatives. A preliminary cost estimate of the must have and wish list selections will add that important variable to the decision-making process.