New Standards for Superloos in Approved Document T

In 2024, the UK Building Regulations introduced Toilet accommodation: Approved Document T, establishing new minimum superloo dimensions.

While the industry commonly refers to them as superloos, Document T officially defines this layout as a fully enclosed self-contained universal toilet.

The universal toilet design can also be used for self-contained toilets within single-sex washrooms.

Overall Superloo Minimum Dimensions

Overall Superloo Minimum Dimensions

From experience, typical superloo dimensions could be 1200mm x 1800mm which is quite generous for a superloo layout, however, Document Part T has specified that these fully enclosed self-contained universal toilets must be a minimum of 1050mm x 1685mm.

It is essential to note that alternative washroom fitting arrangements can lead to larger superloo dimensions, and fittings with varying sizes may necessitate different sized spaces.

Commercial WC Pan Activity Space

Activity Space Dimensions

Superloo dimensions include an area referred to as the activity space.

This is the area that allows a user to access the various sanitary facilities such as the WC pan, without adversely affecting access to other amenities such as the washbasin.

1. Commercial WC Pan Activity Space

The minimum activity space in front of a WC pan should be 600mm deep x 800mm wide.

Commercial WC Pan Clearance Space

2. Commercial WC Pan Clearance Space

As per BS 6465-2:2017, a minimum clearance space of 200mm should be provided between the side of the WC pan and any wall or washroom fitting such as a toilet roll holder or toilet waste bin.

This allows the user to have adequate manoeuvring space when using the toilet.

Washbasin Activity Space

3. Washbasin Activity Space

Document T specifies that the minimum activity space in front of a washbasin will vary depending on its size and type.

While this guidance may seem vague, BS6465 offers clearer direction by providing the following washbasin dimensions:

  • Hand-rinse basin – 600mm deep x 800mm wide (suitable for a washbasin that is 250mm x 400mm)
  • Small washbasin – 700mm deep x 800mm wide
  • Large washbasin – 700mm deep x 1000mm wide

Activity spaces between the washbasin and the WC pan can overlap but both activity spaces should conform to their dimensions as set out in Approved Document T.

Washroom Fittings Activity Space

4. Washroom Fittings Activity Space

Washroom fittings such as a commercial soap dispenser and a commercial hand dryer have their own activity spaces.

Fortunately, these washroom fittings are not limiting factors in your design as they have a smaller activity space than that of a washbasin or WC pan and are likely to be superimposed.

Column of Clearance Dimensions

Column of Clearance Dimensions

A minimum column of clearance of 465mm in diameter is now required in front of the toilet pan between fixed sanitaryware and the door swing.

The column of clearance is permitted to overlap the activity spaces of the WC pan and washbasin but it cannot overlap the door swing space or any of the other commercial washroom accessories and fixtures.

Door Dimensions and Arrangement

Door Dimensions and Arrangement

Superloo dimensions for the toilet cubicle door must have a minimum 650mm effective clear opening width.

Washroom Equipment in Universal Toilets

Washroom Equipment in Universal Toilets

As per Document T, commercial washroom products within the minimum overall superloo dimensions include:

  • A washbasin, mirror and hand-drying facilities within the cubicle.
  • A full-height door and full-height floor-to-ceiling partitions.
  • Space provision for a disposal bin at least 540mm × 210mm.
  • Small shelf 250mm × 150mm in a corner at 780–800mm above finished floor level and above disposal bin.
  • Coat hooks on wall beside washbasin, a high hook at 1685mm and a low hook at 1050mm above finished floor level.

Key Considerations for Superloo Design

Before you start drawing up your superloo dimensions, answer these important commercial washroom design questions:

  • What is the size of the floor plate?
  • How many superloos do you require?
  • What is the proposed arrangement for all sanitary fixtures and fittings?
  • How big are the fixtures and fittings?
  • How many extra washroom fittings do you require?
  • Will the activity spaces overlap?
  • Does the door open inward or outward?
  • Are your design preferences being met?
  • Are you prepared to remove certain design elements?

Now that there are clear guidelines on the minimum superloo dimensions, we hope you found this article helpful on your journey to create your superloo plan.

Dolphin Solutions can provide commercial washroom design ideas and more insights into these design principles to help you achieve the superloo washroom you desire.

Reach out to one of our Dolphin washroom consultants today and let’s bring your vision to life.