Safe and Accessible Gymnasium Telescopic Seating

Designing Safe and Accessible Gymnasium Seating

When it comes to gymnasium seating, creating a safe and accessible environment is essential. Whether it’s for sporting events, assemblies, or performances, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and local building codes is crucial. By incorporating thoughtful design and adhering to specific guidelines, gymnasium seating—including retractable bleachers, telescopic seating, and other preferred seating solutions—can cater to all attendees.

ADA Accommodations: Inclusivity in Design

One of the most critical aspects of telescopic seating is meeting ADA requirements to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Here’s how to achieve it:

• Wheelchair Accessibility: At least 1% of gymnasium seating must be designated as wheelchair-accessible spaces. For venues with more than 300 seats, these spaces should be distributed throughout the seating area, providing a range of viewing options and ticket prices.
• Companion Seating: Each wheelchair space must include an adjacent companion seat, enabling friends and family members to sit together comfortably.
• Aisle Seating Adjustments: At least 1% of fixed aisle seats should feature no armrest or a removable/folding armrest on the aisle side. This design helps individuals with mobility impairments access standard seating.

By integrating these features, gymnasiums can create an inclusive environment that meets the needs of all patrons.

Guardrails: Enhancing Safety

Guardrails play a pivotal role in preventing accidents and ensuring spectator safety. They’re essential along open-sided walking surfaces, cross aisles, stepped aisles, ramps, and landings that are more than 30 inches above the floor.

• Placement: Install guardrails along edges and elevated platforms to prevent falls.
• Compliance: Ensure all guardrails meet local building codes and are constructed to withstand the weight and force of crowds.
• Design: Choose designs that balance functionality with unobstructed sightlines, so spectators enjoy clear views while remaining secure.

Guardrails not only enhance safety but also instill confidence among attendees, particularly in crowded or elevated areas.

Aisle Handrails: Support and Stability

Handrails are mandatory for telescopic seating systems with more than a single row. They offer assistance and a secure footing for people moving through staircases and walkways. They offer balance and bracing for a secure footing for people moving through staircases and walkways.

• Dual-Handrails: For aisles with seating on both sides, mid-aisle handrails are required to ensure easy access.
• Single-Side Seating: In configurations with seating on only one side, install handrails on the opposite side to maintain balance and support.
• Durability: Handrails should be constructed from sturdy materials capable of withstanding frequent use and wear.

Properly installed handrails minimize the likelihood of slips and falls, thereby enhancing safety for spectators experience.

Aisle Stairs: Safe Navigation

Aisle stairs are necessary when the row rise exceeds 8 inches. Designing these stairs correctly minimizes trip hazards and ensures safe navigation for all attendees.

• Intermediate Steps: Permanently attach intermediate steps to eliminate gaps or loose connections that could cause tripping.
• Front Steps: Ensure front steps are removable but securely interlock with the first row of seating during use.
• Non-Skid Surfaces: Use non-slip materials for stair treads to enhance grip and stability.
• Uniform Dimensions: Maintain consistent riser heights (4 to 8 inches) and tread depths (minimum 11 inches) to ensure smooth transitions between rows.

Uniformity in stair design is critical, except in areas where seating transitions to other structural elements.

Creating Inclusive Gymnasium Environments

By adhering to these design principles, telescopic bleacher seating can meet the needs of diverse audiences while maintaining compliance with ADA and safety standards. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Flexible Seating Solutions: Incorporate retractable bleachers and telescopic seating to maximize space efficiency and accommodate various events.
2. Regular Inspections: Conduct routine checks to ensure all components—from handrails to guardrails—remain secure and functional.
3. Collaboration with Experts: Work with architects, engineers, and seating specialists to design systems that prioritize both accessibility and safety.

Conclusion

Designing safe and accessible telescopic seating is about more than compliance—it’s about creating a welcoming environment where everyone can fully participate and enjoy events. From ADA accommodations to the strategic use of guardrails, handrails, and aisle stairs, every element contributes to a secure and inclusive space. Preferred Seating Company can assist gymnasium designers and facility managers to focus on these principles. Preferred Seating can ensure that your seating solutions are not only functional but also elevate the overall spectator experience.