Wheelchair Accessibility & Seating: Standards and Measurements

Average seat width for an adult standard wheelchair

18 inches

How is seat width measured?

By measuring the distance between the outer edge of the patient's hips with the patient seated (adding 1-2 inches ensures a slightly wider seat) to prevent tissue compressions and the development of pressure injuries.

Average seat depth of a standard adult wheelchair

16 inches

How to measure for seat depth of a standard adult wheelchair?

Measure the upper leg from the popliteal fold to the back of the hips then subtract 2 inches.

Standard height from the floor to the seat for an adult wheelchair

20 inches

Average back height for a standard adult wheelchair

16 inches

Standard armrest height for an adult wheelchair

9 inches

Why might a patient require a modification in seat height?

Cushing

Why might a patient require a modification in back height?

How much or need back support.

Recommended slope ratio for wheelchair ramps (rise: run)

1:12

Maximum ramp rise allowed before a landing is required

30 inches

Width of a ramp to safely accommodate a wheelchair

36 inches

Maximum height of a vertical threshold a wheelchair can safely navigate without a ramp or beveled edge

1/2 inch

Recommended beveled threshold slope for accessibility

1:2 slope

Maximum doorway width required for a standard wheelchair to pass through

32 inches

Ideal doorway width to allow comfortable clearance for a variety of wheelchairs

36 inches

Clear floor space required for a wheelchair to turn 180°

60 inches

Minimum clearance required in hallways for a wheelchair to travel comfortably

36 inches

Minimum space required beside a door (pull side vs push side) to allow wheelchair maneuverability

Pull - 18 inches, Push - 12 inches

Minimum ramp length required to meet accessibility standards for a ramp with a rise of 24 inches

24 feet