B-5806 Grab Bars

The B-5806 Series is a cornerstone of commercial restroom safety, featuring 1-1/4” (32mm) diameter tubing constructed from heavy-duty 18-gauge, Type-304 satin-finish stainless steel. These bars feature snap flange covers that click into place to conceal mounting screws for a clean, vandal-resistant look.

Safety & Performance

High-Traction Finish: Bobrick cites third-party testing showing its standard satin-finish grab bars provide 10% more traction than traditional peened-finish bars when grabbed with wet hands.

Exceptional Strength: When properly installed, Bobrick grab bars that provide 1-1/2” (38mm) clearance from the wall can support loads in excess of 900 lbs (408 kg). Other grab bar configurations can support loads in excess of 250 lbs (113 kg), complying with accessible design requirements for structural strength.

Finish Options: The B-5806 Series is available in Bobrick’s standard satin-finish, slip-resistant surface, with peened finish also available by adding suffix .99 to the model number.

Professional Installation & Care

Mounting Height: Horizontal grab bars should be installed so the top of the gripping surface is between 33” and 36” above the finished floor. Bobrick also provides vertical mounting guidance for toilet and shower compartments on the technical data sheet.

Reliable Fastening: Grab bars should be anchored into adequate structural backing. Bobrick states concealed anchor devices or backing should be provided as required by local code, and notes that one mounting kit or grab bar fastener is required for each flange when specified.

Maintenance: To help prevent surface rust or pitting, wipe regularly with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage stainless steel finishes.

Length Selection Guide for ADA Compliance

Selecting the correct length is vital for meeting 2010 ADA Standards and ensuring user safety:

• 12”–18” Lengths: Common for vertical applications near entrance points, showers, tubs, and lavatories.
• 24” Lengths: Primarily used in select layouts, including certain rear-wall installations where specific ADA exceptions apply.
• 36” Lengths: The standard minimum required for rear-wall grab bars at accessible water closets.
• 42” Lengths: The ADA minimum required for side-wall grab bars at accessible water closets.
• 48” Lengths: Commonly selected for side-wall installations; Bobrick offers this standard size to accommodate many layouts.

Satin vs. Peened — Which Finish?

Both finishes use the same 18-gauge Type 304 stainless steel construction, concealed mounting system, and 900 lb load rating. Finish is a surface choice based on application only.

Which B-5806 Size Do You Need?

ADA Standards specify required grab bar lengths by application. Use this guide to find the right size for your project.

All mounting heights are AFF (above finished floor). Consult your applicable building code — local codes may exceed ADA minimums.

Frequently Asked Questions — Bobrick B-5806 Grab Bars

Q: What size grab bar do I need for an ADA toilet stall?

ADA §604.5 requires two bars per accessible toilet stall: a 36" minimum rear-wall bar (§604.5.2, mounted 33"–36" AFF) and a 42" minimum side-wall bar (§604.5.1, positioned 12" max from the rear wall and extending 54" min from the rear wall). The B-5806x36 and B-5806x42 are the standard specifications for these positions.

Q: What is the difference between the B-5806 (1-1/4") and B-6806 (1-1/2")?

The primary difference is diameter. The B-5806 is 1-1/4" (32 mm) — the standard choice for lower-traffic commercial settings, offices, and light institutional projects. The B-6806 is 1-1/2" (38 mm) — the heavy-duty option preferred for healthcare facilities, high-traffic environments, and projects where maximum grip surface is specified. Both satisfy ADA §609.2 and have the same 900 lb load rating and 18-gauge Type 304 stainless steel construction.

Q: How many grab bars does an ADA toilet stall require?

A standard ADA-accessible toilet stall requires a minimum of two grab bars: one rear-wall bar (36" minimum) and one side-wall bar (42" minimum). Both must be mounted between 33"–36" above the finished floor. Additional bars may be specified for enhanced accessibility or by local code.

Q: What is the difference between the satin (B-5806) and peened (B-5806.99) finish?

The satin version has a smooth brushed surface — easy to clean and suitable for standard commercial restrooms. The peened version has a textured dimpled surface that improves grip when hands are wet or soapy — preferred for showers, pool facilities, and wet-area applications. Both versions are identical in diameter, gauge, load rating, and mounting system.

Q: Does the Bobrick B-5806 come with mounting hardware?

No — mounting hardware is not included because wall construction varies widely (concrete block, steel stud, wood framing, tile backer). We recommend #14 sheet metal screws or 1/4" wood screws appropriate for your specific backing. ADA requires grab bars to be anchored into structural backing capable of supporting 250 lbs minimum — never into drywall alone.

Q: What is the load rating of the Bobrick B-5806?

The B-5806 is rated at 900 lbs (408 kg) of downward load when installed into proper structural backing — exceeding the ADA minimum structural stress requirement. This rating applies to all sizes and both finishes, and is identical to the B-6806 series.

Q: Is the Bobrick B-5806 made in the USA?

Yes. Bobrick manufactures the B-5806 series domestically from 18-gauge Type 304 stainless steel. Replacement flanges and mounting hardware are available separately for long-term serviceability.

Q: When should I choose the B-5806 over the B-6806?

Choose the B-5806 (1-1/4") for offices, lower-traffic commercial facilities, light institutional settings, and projects where a slimmer profile is preferred or specified. Choose the B-6806 (1-1/2") for healthcare facilities, high-traffic restrooms, rehabilitation centers, and any application where maximum grip surface is a clinical or safety priority. Both diameters are ADA compliant per §609.2.

B-5806 (1-1/4") vs. B-6806 (1-1/2") — Which Diameter?

ADA §609.2 allows grab bar diameters between 1-1/4" and 2". Both the B-5806 and B-6806 satisfy this requirement. The choice is based on application preference and facility type, not code compliance.