A Guide to Planning Accessible Meetings

Accessible Classroom Style

This set-­up is very helpful when participants need a surface to take notes and refer to materials. Use the accessible chevron style (next section below) whenever possible, but if space does not allow the chevron, classroom style is an option. Include more than one accessible seating location so attendees have choices Click [here] ... for a full-page, printable handout.

Accessible Classroom Set-Up

Remove two chairs for each mobility device space. Oer multiple choices of where to sit. Increase the amount of accessible seating based on the known or anticipated number of mobility device users expected at your event. Note minimum widths for center and side aisles, and for the distance between accessible and standard rows.

Accessible Classroom - Chevron Style

This style of classroom set­-up affords the greatest flexibility and space for access. Chevron style allows better line of sight for speakers and attendees and easier entry for those using mobility devices. In either type of classroom plan, remove two chairs for each wheelchair or scooter space. Offer multiple access points and choices of where to sit. It is never appropriate to require that people using mobility devices sit only in the back or in one designated area. Click [here] ... for a full­-page, printable handout.

Accessible Chevron Set-Up

Preferred over accessible classroom set-up. Remove two chairs for each mobility device space. Oer multiple choices of where to sit. Increase the amount of accessible seating based on the known or anticipated number of mobility device users expected at your event. Note minimum widths for center and side aisles, and for the distance between accessible and standard rows.

Accessible Round Table Style

Aisles between round tables require at least three feet of space between the tables (measured from the back of one chair to the back of the chair directly behind it). Side aisles require at least six feet between the table and the side wall or other obstructions. If people using wheelchairs or other mobility aids will be seated at round tables, decrease the number of table settings by one or two to provide adequate space; for a five-­foot round table set 8 places maximum, and for a six-­foot round table set 10 places maximum.

Note: when possible, use a half­-round set-up so that all seats are facing the presentation area, instead of placing seats around the entire table. In that case, a five-­foot table could accommodate four place settings, and a six-­foot table could accommodate five. Remember that people who use scooters or wheelchairs may prefer to transfer to the chairs at the table and park their assistive devices behind their chairs. Ensure that staff is available to assist as needed. Click [here] ... for a full­-page, printable handout.

Accessible Round Table Set-Up

Remove two chairs for each mobility device space. Oer multiple choices of where to sit. Increase the amount of accessible seating based on the known or anticipated number of mobility device users expected at your event. Note minimum widths for center and side aisles, and for the distance between accessible and standard rows. Also reduce the number of place settings at a round table by one per mobility device user. Five foot round table: Maximum 8 place settings. Six foot round table: Maximum 10 place settings.

Detail View – Accessible Round Set-Up

Measure from the back of one chair to the back of the chair directly behind it. Chairs must be set with the front edge of the chair at the edge of the table. In other words, the chairs should not be pushed under the tables. Click [here] ... for a full-page, printable handout.