04/18/2026
‼️Urgent Call to Action‼️
The comments are due on Monday!
Here is the info to submit for the US Access Board's comments for universal changing stations in airports. I have added the design criteria for them which is more stringent than either of the options they are drawing from, with their request to potentially make their own rules. Let me know if you have questions.
Comments must reference Docket No. ATBCB–2026–0001 and can be submitted by:
• Online: via Regulations.gov at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/18/2026-03199/accessibility-standards-for-universal-changing-stations
• Email: [email protected]
• Mail: U.S. Access Board, 1331 F Street NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004
Things to focus on in comments:
• The importance of universal changing stations for people with developmental disabilities across the lifespan
• Design features that promote dignity, safety, and independence
• Caregiver needs and safe transfer requirements
• Equity of access beyond airports (long-term consideration)
• Barriers currently faced in community settings
Design Considerations for Universal Changing Stations:
1. Universal Changing Stations must be located in single-user toilet rooms that include only one water closet and one lavatory.
2. Universal Changing Stations must be located on an accessible route and the path of travel to the facility shall not exceed 1000 feet
3. Doors shall not swing into the clear floor space or clearance for any fixture
4. Single-user restrooms with the universal changing stations must provide the following components:
a. A dispenser for soap
b. A hand towel dispenser
c. A coat hook located in close proximity to the changing surface
d. A waste receptacle with a lid to prevent odor transfer
e. Signage indicating "Universal Changing Station" provided at the entrance to the room and complying with tactile and visual character requirements
f. Signage indicating the weight capacity and instructions for operation of the changing station within the room
5. The universal changing station and its supporting structure when in the operational position shall not obstruct required clear floor spaces and clearances at accessible elements, maneuvering clearances at doors or at the wheelchair turning spaces
6. Universal changing stations shall comply with the following safety and performance requirements:
a. Protect the user from falling from the changing surface along the open long sides by means such as retractable safety rails. Side rails shall be a minimum of 2/3 of the length of the changing surface and shall be centered +/- 3 inches along the long open sides of the changing surface. Side rails shall be capable of being raised and lowered. The side rail shall be fixed in place when in the raised position. The top of the side rail shall extend 5 inches minimum above the top of the changing surface
b. Support a weight of not less than 400 pounds applied to the changing surface
c. Be anchored in place
d. Provide a changing surface that is smooth, non-absorbent, and resistant to corrosion.
e. Where electrical components are provided they shall comply with the local electrical code.
f. Where operable controls are provided for the universal changing stations they shall comply with the "Operable Parts" section of the accessibility code
g. A ceiling lift shall be provided for safety of the caregiver and user of table
7. The changing surface shall be 70 inches minimum in length and 30 inches minimum in width
8. The changing surface shall be adjustable at variable heights from 17 inches minimum to 38 inches maximum above the floor as measured to the top of the changing surface
9. A 36 inch deep minimum side clearance shall be provided along the open long side of the changing surface
10. A 36" wide minimum end clearance shall be provided along the depth of the one end of the changing surface. The width of the end clearance shall extend the depth of the changing surface and the side clearanc
The Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) is issuing this Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) to begin the process of establishing accessible design standards for universal changing tables and standards on the privacy, accessibility, and sanitation...
