Universal Changing Stations

A.This Part is promulgated pursuant to the authority granted in R.I. Gen. Laws § 37-8-21(a).

A.The purpose of this Part is to govern the installation of universal changing stations in public buildings that are newly constructed, reconstructed, or remodeled on or after January 1, 2027.

A.This Part applies to capital construction, reconstruction, or remodeling projects within Public Buildings as defined herein. The requirements of this Part do not apply to project scopes that are Asset Protection Projects as defined herein.

A."Asset Protection Projects" shall mean projects where the scope is limited to routine preventative maintenance and/or routine preservation of building value.

B.“Frequented by Public” shall mean any area in a public building that is customarily open, accessible, or used by members of the general public to obtain services, attend proceedings, conduct official business, or participate in civic activities.

C.“Public building” shall mean any building owned by the state of Rhode Island or any building leased by the state of Rhode Island with a term of two (2) years or longer.

D.“Reconstruction or Remodel” shall mean a construction project solicited pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 37-2 on a restroom in a public building where it is feasible to install a universal changing station.

E.“Universal Changing Station” has the same meaning as defined in R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 37-8-21(b) and (d).

A.Exemptions may be granted as set forth in R.I. Gen. Laws § 37-8-21(c).

1.Installation will be considered feasible pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 37-8-21(c)(1) only if:

a.Installation is physically possible within the designated space;

b.The cost of installing the universal changing station does not exceed ten (10%) percent of the full project cost; and

c.For leased properties, if the building owner grants permission for installation.

B.In order to apply for an exemption, an applicant must:

1.Apply in writing to the Division of Purchases;

2.Specify the grounds for the exemption; and

3.Provide any and all information and documentation supportive of the request for exemption.

C.The Division of Purchases will grant or deny the application in writing with notice to the applicant and to the State Building Code Standards Committee.

D.Nothing in this Regulation and no exception granted hereunder shall alter or impair the applicability of and required compliance with the provisions of the State Building Code, or the requirement to obtain relief from the Building Code Standards Committee for any variations, waivers, modifications, amendments, equivalencies or alternatives from particular provisions of the Building Code.

A.The requirements of this Part shall be included in all solicitation materials sent to the Division of Purchasing related to eligible projects.

A.This Part applies to reconstruction, remodel, or new construction projects subject to R.I. Gen. Laws § 37-8-21 where the drafting of the design documents is initiated on or after January 1, 2027.