Heavy Duty Grab Bars, Bariatric Grab Bars, Shower Grab Bars, Shower Bar

What are bariatric grab bars?

Bariatric grab bars, or heavy-duty grab bars, help to accommodate larger individuals by bearing a higher weight capacity. They are used in bedrooms, bathrooms, and anywhere extra support is needed, and can be installed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. These more heavy-duty grab bars are designed with the patient in mind, keeping sleek aesthetics that in easily with your home or business decor. Grab bars can typically be found in homes, schools, hospitals, public handicap-accessible restrooms, nursing homes, and assisted care facilities.

What to consider when buying a bariatric grab bar?

Bariatric grab bars come in many variations for both aesthetics and function, but they are almost always made out of metal for extra durability. When choosing which grab bar to buy, it’s important to consider the following:

• Weight Capacity: the weight capacity is how much weight a grab bar can safely handle before it becomes dislodged or damaged. Bariatric equipment is classified as bariatric after it can exceed the 250-pound weight capacity set by standard equipment. We proudly offer products that go above and beyond that mark, with bariatric grab bars holding a minimum weight capacity of 440 pounds and grab bars with a maximum holding of 1,250 pounds.
• Finish: depending on your lifestyle and medical needs, a grab bar with a textured, or peened, finish may be better suited than high-polished stainless steel. Textured finishes grant you more to grip and hold on to when using the bar, ultimately keeping you safer.
• Length: grab bars are made in many different sizes to accommodate different room sizes and needs. For a grab bar to be ADA-compliant, it must be a minimum of 42 inches (1065mm) long. Grab bars for home use are made at shorter lengths to adjust for varying room layouts and placement. Vertical stability poles are also an option for those needing support in areas where there are no nearby walls or appropriate furniture to attach to.
• Style: grab bars are made in a variety of polishes, colors, and shapes, making it easier to fit in with your decor. If low visibility is a consideration, choosing a contrasting or bright color bar from its surroundings will help to eliminate confusion and keep you or your patient safe.
• Installation: in certain situations, such as apartment rentals, mounting a grab bar into the wall using screws is prohibited. In these cases, a vertical grab bar or stability pole would be ideal. If the support is needed on a slick surface like the bathroom, however, a safety frame or shower chair would fit best.