Posted By JWG
1.
Before going down the Workplace, and DSE assessment route, does anyone have information on minimum dimension requirements for a wheelchair user in an office environment, more specifically the workstation and the space around it. Any information will do, so either something that has been cobbled together from experience or reference specific guidelines (which I’m struggling to find).

2.
If a large, multi-user reception desk (that is fixed to the ground and to the ceiling with side panels) does not sufficiently accommodate a wheelchair user employee, is it within the ‘reasonable adjustment’ definition, as defined under DDA, to carryout the necessary work of approximately £5000. The alternative is that the prospective employee will not be able to work in the cramped conditions safely, and therefore cannot be offered the job (GET YOUR CHECK BOOK OUT I HEAR YOU CRY)

I personally would say it would be, but I want to be able to put a convincing argument forward, with reference legislative requirements and case studies if possible, to those who hold the purse strings.

Many thanks in advance..

Posted By Bob Youel

I have found that any written measurements are just guides and you have to look at who is 'likely' to be present - if one wheelchair user has a motorised chair and another has a sports chair the space etc needed can be completely different

Additionally do not get hung up on wheelchair disability areas; as most do; e.g. blind people do not usually need more space than other employees however they may need different adjustments

you make your own decisions and go with it - ask others who have come across the same situation and go from there

Posted By Chas
JWG

In response to your Item 1 try and get a copy of BS8300:2001 - The design of buildings to meet the needs of disabled people - Code of Practice. It gives a variety of dimensions for various situations and some desk/reception dimensions that you may find as a useful starting point. Hope this helps.