OPERATING SAFETY
Before you assist a wheelchair user, be sure to read and
follow the instructions:
1- Work with the wheelchair user’s doctor, nurse or therapist to
learn safe methods best suited to your abilities and those of
the wheelchair user.
2- Explain to the user what you plan to do and what you expect
the user to do. This will put the wheelchair user at ease and
reduce the risk of an accident.
3- Make sure the chair has push handles. They provide secure
points for you to hold the rear of the chair to prevent a fall or
tip-over.
4- To prevent injury to your back, use good posture and proper
body mechanics. When you lift or support the wheelchair
user or tilt the chair, bend your knees slightly and keep your
back as upright and straight as you can.
5- Remind the wheelchair user to lean back when you tilt the
chair backward.
6- To avoid tripping, unlock and rotate anti-tippers into place if
you must leave the wheelchair user alone, even for a moment.
This will reduce the risk of a tip over or loss of control of
the chair.
TRANSFER
Be aware that there is a point in every transfer when the
wheelchair seat is not below occupant.
1- Lock the rear wheels before you transfer.
2- Move your chair as close as you can to the seat you are
transferring to. If possible, use a transfer board.
3- Rotate the front casters until they are as far forward as
possible.
Never use this chair on the escalators.
ESCALATORS
