Gerontologic Environmental Modifications >> Injury Prevention



	U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
		Upholstered Furniture Safety Alert
		Tap Water Scalds
		Aluminum Cookware Can Melt and Cause Severe Burns
		Electrical Receptacle Outlets
		Extension Cords Fact Sheet
		WARNING! Fire Hazard with Nightlights
		Carbon Monoxide Detectors Can Save Lives

	Bathing safety equipment
		Choosing the right bath seat
		Handheld showerheads
		Grab Bars
		Grab Bar Safety Meeting Notes
		Grab Bar Testing Data
		Bath Mats
		Resource list

Bathing Safety Equipment

	Wall-Mounted Grab Bars
	Tub-Mounted Grab Bars

Tub-Mounted Grab Bars

For situations in which it is not feasible to install a wall-mounted grab bar, companies make tub-mounted grab bars that clamp or screw onto the side of the tub wall. This type of bar must be used with extreme caution as it can easily detach from the tub if used incorrectly.

Generally GEM does not recommend the usage of tub-mounted bars. GEM tested various types of tub-mounted bars and many easily detached from the tub wall while getting up from the tub floor and while getting in and out of the tub.

Unfortunately, consumers are not given sufficient information on how to purchase and use tub mounted grab bars safely. One manufacturer's written instructions only stated: "This product should not be used without proper instructions from a healthcare professional". Another manufacturer advised people with limited physical capabilities to be supervised and assisted when using the tub bar.


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Warnings on the Usage of Tub-Mounted Grab Bars:

1. Use only on tubs with flat rims. It is unsafe to install a tub-mounted bar on a bathtub with a curved rim. Tub-mounted bars should only be installed on bathtubs with flat, not curved rims, and on tubs that have straight, not angled sidewalls. Many tub-mounted bars are designed to be installed only on porcelain or cast iron bathtubs; a special model is needed for fiberglass bathtubs.

2. Use only while standing with a downwards force. Do not pull or push with a sideways motion. Tub-mounted bars are designed to be used only as a handhold while entering and exiting the tub from a standing position. A person should only use grab bars that are securely fastened to the wall to aid in getting up from the bathtub floor. Pushing or pulling on the tub bar with a sideways motion will loosen the tub bar from the tub wall.

3. Check before each use. Test the tub bar before each use to see that it is securely attached to the tub wall. This is especially important after the bathtub is cleaned. GEM has received several reports of tub-mounted bars dislodging during use after the bathroom was cleaned: the housekeeper removed the bar for cleaning and did not securely re-attached it.