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SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
SAFETY/HANDLING
A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANTS
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required,
remember to use good body mechanics. Keep your
back straight and bend your knees whenever tilting
the wheelchair or traversing curbs, or other impedi-
ments.
Also, be aware of any removable (detachable) parts.
These must NEVER be used for hand-held or lifting
supports, as they may be inadvertently released,
resulting in possible injury to the user and/or
assistant(s).
When learning a new assistance technique, have
an experienced assistant help you before attempt-
ing it alone.
TILTING
WA R N I N G
DO NOT tilt the wheelchair without as-
sistance.
When tilting the wheelchair, an assistant should
grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non-remov-
able (non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair
occupant before tilting the wheelchair and remind
him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet
and hands are clear of all wheels.
TILTING - CURBS:
After mastering the techniques of tilting the wheel-
chair, use one (1) of the following procedures to
tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.
METHOD 1
Apply a continuous downward motion until the bal-
ance point is achieved and the front casters clear
the curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a differ-
ence in the weight distribution.
Roll the wheelchair forward and slowly lower the
wheelchair in one continuous movement onto the
sidewalk. Do not let the wheelchair drop the last
few inches to the ground. This could result in injury
to the occupant. Push the wheelchair forward until
the rear wheels roll up and over the curb.
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the
close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the
assistant. This manual points out the most common
procedures and techniques involved in the safe op-
eration and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is impor-
tant to practice and master these safe techniques un-
til you are comfortable in maneuvering around the fre-
quently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The tech-
niques that are discussed on the following pages have
been used successfully by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal
with daily living activities that may differ from those
described in this manual. Invacare recognizes and en-
courages each individual to try what works best for
him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles that they
may encounter. Techniques in this manual are a start-
ing point for the new wheelchair user and assistant
with “safety” as the most important consideration for
all.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
WA R N I N G
The seat restraint is an option on this
wheelchair. Invacare strongly recom-
mends ordering the seat restraint as an
additional safeguard for the wheelchair
user.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheel-
chair, you must at all times maintain proper balance
and wear your seat restraint, if so equipped. Your wheel-
chair has been designed to remain upright and stable
during normal daily activities as long as you do not
move beyond the center of gravity.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any fur-
ther than the length of the armrests. Make sure the
casters are pointing in the forward position whenever
you lean forward. This can be achieved by advancing
the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.
COPING WITH EVERYDAY OBSTACLES
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can be
alleviated somewhat by learning how to manage your
wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity to
maintain stability and balance.