Greencare DB1J 13, User Manual

Page: 20 / 32

Low seat to ground occupant propelled builds
are available on DB1. These may have
compact wheel features to reduce turning
space and special builds for indoor use are
also available. The rear wheel can be fitted in
either the central, or maximum rearwards
stability position. This is more suitable and
convenient for an occupant who assists
propulsion of the wheelchair by pushing along
the ground with the feet. (see illustration
below.)
However a foot propelling occupant is also at
risk of rearwards tip out, should the force
exerted by the propelling foot, overcome the
stability of the wheelchair, at any time, on an
upward slope. A simple object or raised ground
surface could instigate this.
For this reason it is recommended that the foot
propulsion method is used mainly indoors for
tight space manoeuvrability.
Foot propulsion should not be used outdoors
on active balance wheel settings, or where
there are upward facing slopes.
It can be seen that for all users, learning the
geography of an area is important. Users
should check distance and terrain to be
covered, bearing in mind that a slope going out
is a hill coming back.
Forward journey planning can eliminate
difficult manoeuvres, and steps,kerbs or soft
ground may then be avoided, and the journey
less exerting
Safe slope (up to 8 Degrees)
For a carer and occupant, pushing a
wheelchair can be an enjoyment provided
that there is mutual confidence and
understanding. In this context both carer and
occupant are both wheelchair users, and can
help each other
A combination of slope and camber is
common in many areas. For new users, trying
the chair out on typical surface conditions
nearby is recommended, before venturing on
a longer trip.
The effort to push a wheelchair up a slope, or
control a wheelchair coming down can be
very high. This is true for both occupant and
attendant propelled wheelchairs.
The comparative pushing force required is
greater when the slope is steep, when the
occupant is heavy, or when the pushing
attendant is small. Modern public buildings
should provide permanent and safe
wheelchair ramps with a slope angle which
conforms to regulations.
General advice on recommended safe slope
may need to be reviewed with a reduced
angle. if the carer is relatively small or weak,
and the occupant large and heavy. A review
may also needed as a result of change of use,
or wheelchair modification from its original
assessed build configuration, such as when
special seating is fitted.
GETTING AROUND SAFELY AND ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES
18