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3.4
Safety Precautions/Safe Operations
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The day to day activities and the more advanced powered wheelchair techniques depend, on your physical
capabilities and your own specific circumstances. Our recommendations may occasionally differ from those
of your therapeutic adviser or physician, as they may have a better understanding of your abilities. Where
this is the case, you must follow their advice, they are better placed to tell you what is suitable for you and
what is not.
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Do not use your powered wheelchair when your driving ability is impaired by medication or alcohol.
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Avoid using your powered wheelchair on rough ground or in adverse weather conditions (snow or ice),
always steer clear of obstacles where possible, ensure your clothing and hands are kept clear of all moving
parts, ask for assistance when descending or ascending steep gradients. Never attempt to negotiate stairs.
Never use an escalator to move a powered wheelchair between floors. Due to both the weight of a
powered wheelchair and its occupant it is not advisable to attempt to be assisted up and down stairs whilst
the powered wheelchair is occupied.
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If you are a user with limited mobility we advise that in the case of adverse weather conditions, i.e.
extreme cold, do not attempt a journey without an accompanying attendant. In an event of a power failure
you could become stranded in an isolated area, where there is the strong possibility you will be unable to
get immediate assistance.
•
Braking of your powered wheelchair is dependant on electromagnetic motor brakes. When these are
disengaged by declutching the motor gear box drive system, the chair is in freewheel mode, this mode is
for emergency use only and motor gearboxes should remain engaged at all other times.
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To avoid the powered wheelchair free wheeling special care must be taken to engage motor brakes.
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When using your powered wheelchair indoors always consider the following potential hazards:
o
Beware of the fact that many of the premises where you are likely to use your powered wheelchair
may not have been designed with this consideration in mind. You should therefore have an
awareness for safety when encountering the likes of narrow doorways, steps, high surfaces,
protruding wall fittings and every day household items such as electrical appliances, etc. Take extra
care in kitchen environments.
Consider the fire evacuation procedures for buildings you may be entering. Never put yourself at risk, and
ensure that you can be evacuated in the event of an emergency.
