Sanitary accommodation
Approved document F, Ventilation, suggests that ‘sanitary accommodation’ is:
‘…a space containing one or more water closets (wc) or urinals. Sanitary accommodation containing one or more cubicles counts as a single space if there is free circulation of air throughout the space.’
Similarly, Approved document G, Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency, suggests that sanitary accommodation means:
‘…a room containing a WC or urinal, whether or not it also contains other sanitary appliances. Sanitary accommodation containing one or more cubicles counts as a single space if there is free circulation of air throughout the space.
It suggests that the term ‘sanitary appliance’ means a WC, urinal, bath, shower, washbasin, sink, bidet and drinking fountain. It also includes appliances that are not connected to a water supply (such as a composting toilet) or a drain (for example waterless urinal).
The Scottish Building Standards, Part I. Technical Handbook – Domestic, Appendix A Defined Terms, defines sanitary accommodation as: ‘…bathrooms, shower rooms, washrooms and toilets.’ It defines a sanitary facility as a: '...washbasin, sink, bath, shower, urinal, or watercloset, and in dwellings only, includes a waterless closet.'
The term ‘sanitary convenience’ means water closets and urinals.
See also: Bathroom definition.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.