Bobrick Grab Bars Buyer’s Guide: ADA Compliance & Durability For Commercial Restrooms
For facility managers and architects, restroom safety is non-negotiable. Commercial restrooms experience heavy traffic, moisture, and repeated impact, making Bobrick grab bars a critical component for both safety and liability protection. Bobrick grab bars provide a commercial-grade solution, engineered from high-quality stainless steel to resist corrosion and support heavy loads when properly installed. Whether outfitting a healthcare facility, school, or office building, this guide helps contractors and building owners select the right configurations, finishes, and mounting options for code-compliant installations.
Types Of Bobrick Grab Bars
Straight Grab Bars
The most common and versatile option. Straight bars may be mounted horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Available in lengths from 12” to 48”.
Popular series:
B-6806 (1-1/2” diameter)
B-5806 (1-1/4” diameter)
90-Degree Grab Bars
Designed for corner installations to provide support on two intersecting walls.
Common models include:
B-5898 (1-1/4” diameter)
B-6898.99 (1-1/2” diameter with peened finish)
Swing-Up Grab Bars
The
Wall-To-Floor Grab Bars
When a wall cannot provide sufficient anchoring or is too far away, wall-to-floor models such as the B-5897 add a floor flange for enhanced stability.
Quick Answer
Best For General Use
The B-6806 Series (1-1/2” diameter) and B-5806 Series (1-1/4” diameter) are Bobrick’s industry-standard straight grab bars.
Top Safety Choice
Select the Peened finish (suffix .99) for a slip-resistant surface that provides extra grip when wet.
Material Standard
Bobrick grab bars are manufactured from heavy-duty Type-304 stainless steel for corrosion resistance and long-term durability.
Mounting Type
Concealed flanges with snap-on covers provide a clean appearance and protect mounting hardware from tampering.
How To Choose The Right Bobrick Grab Bar
Diameter
Choose 1-1/2” (38 mm) for a larger grip or 1-1/4” (32 mm) for a slimmer profile.
Finish
Satin finish offers a clean, modern look and easy cleaning. Peened finish (.99) provides increased slip resistance.
Length
Common toilet compartment installations use 36" or 42" bars, but Bobrick grab bars are available in a full range of lengths including 18", 24", 30", 36", 42", and 48" to accommodate side walls, back walls, shower applications, and custom layouts.
Mounting Surface
Wall type (drywall, tile, masonry, or partitions) determines which anchor devices are required.
Wall Clearance
ADA requires 1-1/2” (38 mm) clearance between the wall and grab bar for a proper grip.
Codes, ADA, And Compliance
Bobrick grab bars are designed to meet 2010 ADA Standards and applicable ICC accessibility guidelines.
- Horizontal grab bars must be mounted 33”–36” above the finished floor
- Grab bars must withstand a minimum 250 lb load
- Proper wall backing or approved anchor devices are required for compliance
Always follow local building codes and Bobrick installation instructions for final approval.
Why This Matters In Commercial Restrooms
In commercial environments, grab bars are not decorative accessories — they are structural safety components. They must support significant force while remaining firmly anchored after years of use. Bobrick grab bars are engineered to comply with the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design for structural strength when installed with appropriate backing or anchor devices.
High-quality stainless steel construction prevents rust, loosening, and surface degradation, which helps protect facility owners from maintenance problems, safety hazards, and liability exposure.
Common Buying Mistakes
Ignoring Wall Backing
Grab bars must be anchored into solid backing or installed with Bobrick anchor devices to achieve code-required strength.
Mixing Diameters
Using 1-1/4” and 1-1/2” bars in the same restroom creates inconsistent appearance and grip feel. Forgetting Anchor Devices Structural anchors such as WingIt™ or Bobrick mounting kits must be specified separately. Incorrect Wall Clearance Non-standard bars that do not provide 1-1/2” clearance may fail inspection.
Forgetting Anchor Devices
Structural anchors such as WingIt™ or Bobrick mounting kits must be specified separately. Incorrect Wall Clearance Non-standard bars that do not provide 1-1/2” clearance may fail inspection.
Incorrect Wall Clearance
Non-standard bars that do not provide 1-1/2” clearance may fail inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between B-5806 and B-6806?
B-5806 is 1-1/4” diameter. B-6806 is 1-1/2” diameter.
What does the .99 suffix mean?
It indicates a peened, slip-resistant finish.
Are Bobrick grab bars ADA compliant?
Yes, when installed per Bobrick instructions and ADA standards.
Can grab bars be mounted to toilet partitions?
Yes. Bobrick offers anchor devices such as 2583 and 2586 for 1/2”–1” thick panels.
Is mounting hardware included?
Flange screws are included.
Get Expert Help Choosing
At TotalRestroom.com, we are an Authorized Bobrick Stocking Distributor with an Everyday Low Price Guarantee. Our project managers help ensure every grab bar meets ADA, architectural, and inspection requirements.
For expert guidance or volume pricing, call (877) 234-3520 or chat with our commercial restroom specialists.