What is the minimum clearance behind a desk chair?

The minimum clearance behind a seated occupant is 36" — this is the ADA-referenced figure and the general ergonomic standard for workstation access. In multi-person open offices, 42"–48" is recommended so a colleague can pass while the seated person is at the desk. In private offices where the only occupant is the desk user, 36" is acceptable. At OfficeFurniture2go.com, we build 36" minimum clearance into every space plan we prepare — call us at 1-800-460-0858 if you need a layout review.