Accessible desks play an important role in ensuring that individuals using wheelchairs can comfortably work in desk-related environments, such as in the office, working from home or at school. In this guide, we'll delve into what wheelchair accessible desks are, what features make them accessible, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What Is a Wheelchair Accessible Desk?
Although traditional desks can sometimes be used with a multi-adjustable chair, for many wheelchair users, a change of chairs in not a viable option. This is where accessible desks come in. A wheelchair accessible desk is designed to allow wheelchair users to comfortably work at a desk while seated in their wheelchair.
What Makes a Wheelchair Desk Accessible?
A wheelchair desk should be large enough to ensure a wheelchair can fit under it, and that it is the right height for the wheelchair user to be comfortable.
1. Ample Legroom: Accessible desks offer sufficient legroom underneath the desk to accommodate the wheelchair.
2. Adjustable Height: Wheelchair users should have the ability to adjust the height of the desk to their specific needs, ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic setup.
3. Accessible Controls: Controls for adjusting the desk height should be easily accessible and operable from a seated position.
5. Spacious Surface Area: The desk's surface should be spacious enough to accommodate all items, such as a laptop, an additional monitor, monitor arms and other supplies, while still providing ample room for the wheelchair.
A height-adjustable desk is ideal for this reason, as it can be tailored to your specific needs. If you share an office or hot desk, even better! Everyone can benefit from an adjustable desk; wheelchair users can adjust it to the perfect height for them, and non wheelchair users can use it to switch between seating and standing positions, which has a range of mental and physical benefits.
How High Should a Wheelchair Accessible Desk Be?
The typical guidelines for wheelchair accessible desks is 28-34" from the floor to the surface area. However, determining the appropriate height for a wheelchair accessible desk depends on the individual user's height and the specific requirements of their wheelchair.
A general guideline is to ensure that the desk's surface is at a height that allows the user to comfortably work without having to strain. Your desk should be at a height that allows your elbows to rest at your sides at a 90-degree angle while typing, with your forearms parallel to the ground.
How Wide Should a Wheelchair Accessible Desk Be?
The width and depth of a wheelchair accessible desk should be enough to accommodate the user's workspace needs while still allowing for easy reach. A standard width of 48 to 72 inches is commonly recommended, however this might differ between individuals.
Friska Desks
Did you know that the Stockholm height adjustable desk by FRISKA is especially suitable for wheelchair access? With a unique ability to go as low as 640mm and as high as 1300mm, you can raise and lower the desk with ease for wheelchair users and non wheelchair users alike.