General Definition

IBC – Accessible Workstations

Key Requirements

• Minimum Percentage of Accessible Workstations:
  • A certain percentage of workstations must be designed for accessibility (typically based on the total number of workstations in the space).
  • The number varies depending on the type of facility, and reasonable accommodations must be made per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Clear Floor Space:
  • Each accessible workstation must provide at least 30” x 48” (760 mm x 1220 mm) of clear maneuvering space for a wheelchair.
  • The space must allow forward or parallel approach to work surfaces.
• Reach Range Compliance:
  • Work surfaces, storage units, and controls must be within accessible reach ranges:
    • 15” – 48” above the finished floor (AFF) for forward reach.
    • 15” – 54” AFF for side reach.
  • Shelving, filing cabinets, and office equipment must be placed within reach range limits for ease of use.
• Knee and Toe Clearance:
  • Desks and workstations must have a knee clearance of 27” (685 mm) AFF and depth of at least 17” (430 mm) to accommodate wheelchair users.
• Integrated Workstations vs. Adaptable Design:
  • The requirement applies to workstations that serve the general public or multiple employees.
  • In private offices, accommodations are often handled on an as-needed basis under reasonable accommodation laws.
• Circulation and Egress Paths:
  • Workstations must be connected to an accessible route that complies with IBC 1104.3.
  • Aisles and circulation paths must be at least 36” wide for maneuverability.
• Electrical & IT Accessibility:
  • Electrical outlets, data ports, and controls should be positioned within accessible reach range.
  • Adjustable-height desks and ergonomic modifications are encouraged.

Example Application in a Mixed-Use Office Building:

• If an office floor has 100 workstations, at least 5-10% (5-10 workstations) should be fully accessible with adequate clear floor space, reach ranges, and appropriate furnishings.

BSL (Japan) – Accessibility in Workstations

Unlike IBC, Japan’s Building Standard Law (BSL) and Barrier-Free Act do not explicitly mandate accessibility for office workstations. However, many modern workplaces incorporate universal design principles to foster inclusivity.

Key Considerations in Japan:

1. Universal Design Adoption:
   • While the Barrier-Free Act (2006) primarily focuses on public spaces, many large corporations voluntarily adopt accessibility features in office spaces.
   • Companies use adjustable-height desks, wide corridors, and accessible storage solutions.
2. Step-Free Transitions:
   • Japanese regulations are strict about level differences in office environments.
   • Even minor step-ups (greater than 13 mm / 0.5 inches) require ramps or step-free transitions.
3. Circulation & Pathways:
   • BSL requires clear width of 800-900 mm (31.5 – 35.4 inches) for pathways.
   • New office designs often ensure barrier-free movement between workstations.
4. Assistive Technology Integration:
   • Offices increasingly incorporate voice-controlled systems, ergonomic desks, and automated furniture.
   • Tactile floor indicators are often used to guide visually impaired employees.
5. Company-Driven Accessibility Policies:
   • Unlike in the USA, where accessibility is lawfully required, Japanese companies take a corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach.
   • Many large employers, such as Toyota, Hitachi, and Sony, incorporate universal design workspaces.
6. Adjustments for Employees with Disabilities:
   • Employees can request reasonable modifications (similar to ADA accommodations in the US).
   • Companies may provide customized seating, workstation adjustments, and assistive devices.