2013 Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (FSORAG)

4.4 Benches

4.4.1 General.

Where benches are provided, each shall comply with section 4.4. At least 20 percent of the benches provided at a recreation site shall be connected to an ORAR complying with section 2.0.

Exception 1. Section 4.3.1 does not apply to built-in benches provided in assembly areas such as amphitheaters. These benches are covered by sections F221.2.1.1, F221.2.2, and 903 of the ABAAS.

Exception 2. In alterations, where a condition for exception in section 1.1 prohibits full compliance with a specific requirement for clear floor or ground space surface, slope, size, or location, the clear floor or ground space shall comply with requirements to the extent practicable.

4.4.2 Height.

The front edge of the seat of a bench shall be at least 17 inches (430 mm) and no more than 19 inches (485 mm) above the floor or ground. 

4.4.3 Backrest and Armrest.

When more than one bench is provided in the same area, at least 50 percent of the benches shall have a backrest running the full length of the bench. In addition, one armrest shall be provided at one end or in the middle of at least 50 percent of the benches with backrests. The structural strength of backs, armrests, and mounting devices shall comply with section 903.6 of the ABAAS, which states: “Allowable stresses shall not be exceeded for materials used when a vertical or horizontal force of 250 pounds (1112 N) is applied at any point on the seat, fastener, mounting device or supporting structure.”

4.4.4 Clear Floor or Ground Space.

A clear floor or ground space of 36 inches (915 mm) by 48 inches (1220 mm) shall be located at an end the bench with one side of the space adjoining an accessible route, outdoor recreation access route, trail, or beach access route. The long dimension of the clear space shall be roughly perpendicular to the length of the bench.

Locate the clear space to provide shoulder alignment between a person sitting on the bench and a person seated in a wheelchair occupying the clear space. Shoulder alignment generally can be achieved by positioning the back of the bench so it is 8 inches (200 millimeters) closer to the outdoor recreation access route, trail, or beach access route than the back of the required clear floor or ground space adjacent to the end of the bench.

The clear floor or ground space shall not overlap the outdoor recreation access route or trail. 

4.4.5 Slope.

The slope of the clear floor or ground space for benches shall not exceed 1:48 (2 percent) in any direction.

Exception. When the surface is not paved or is not elevated above the natural ground, slopes not steeper than 1:33 (3 percent) shall be permitted where necessary for drainage. 

4.4.6 Surface.

The surface of the clear floor or ground space for benches shall be firm and stable. The type of surface should be appropriate to the setting and level of development.