4 SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
29
4.9
Percentage of Weight Distribution
Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the
normal balance, the center of gravity, and the weight distribution of the wheelchair. To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice
bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified health professional before attempting active use of
the wheelchair.
FIGURE
5
Percentage of Weight Distribution
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from the floor by reaching
down between your knees.
The seat height, seat depth, back angle, seat system/upholstery, caster size/position, rear wheel size, rear wheel position,
correct anti-tipper as well as the end user’s disability or end user’s physical condition and capabilities directly relate to the
stability of the wheelchair. Any change to one or any combination of the nine may cause the wheelchair to decrease in
stability. These adjustments MUST be performed by a qualified technician.
CENTER OF
GRAVITY
UNOCCUPIED OCCUPIED
