13
English
Oxford
®
Dipper
9. Operating Instructions
WARNING
The Oxford Dipper should only be operated by fully trained/competent care givers.
1. First check the Dipper is assembled according to the instructions in the ‘Assembly and
Commissioning’ section.
2. Connect the Ranger chair to the chair support arm on the lift.
NOTE: An unloaded boom will not come down under its own weight, it will be necessary
to apply some pressure to the boom before it will descend.
NOTE: The raising and lowering of the boom is achieved by a powerful hydraulic ram
which is operated by two simple controls: the release valve, which is identified by
a black knurled knob, and the pump handle which is a long lever on the side of the
hydraulic unit.
To raise the boom, ensure the hydraulic release valve is fully closed. The valve is closed by
gently turning the knurled knob fully clockwise
(Finger tight only)
. Once valve is closed, pump
the long handle with smooth even strokes for maximum effect. The handle strokes from an
upright position through an arc of 90 degrees.
CAUTION
• Leave the handle in the upright position when not in use.
• DO NOT force the handle beyond the upper or lower stops.
• If it is necessary to raise the boom to its maximum highest position, once maximum
position is reached, stop pumping the handle immediately or damage may be caused to
the hydraulic pump.
The hydraulic unit can be rotated to allow the handle to be used from either side of the lift.
To lower the boom, open the release valve by turning anticlockwise. The release valve is
progressive, i.e. the more it is opened, the faster the descent. The valve is restricted so even
when fully open the descent is controlled. If the release valve is partially opened (a quarter
turn) a very slow speed of descent will allow the carer to work “hands free” while assisting or
comforting the patient.
CAUTION
REMEMBER to close the release valve before commencing lifting operations. The release
valve only requires gentle pressure to open or close. DO NOT apply excessive force to the
release valve, either to close or to open. It is not necessary and will only damage the valve.
3. Release the seat latch and raise the boom slowly by pumping the hydraulic unit handle. This will
lift the seat away from the chassis.
4. When the seat is clear of the chassis, stop pumping and swing the boom and seat over the water.
WARNING
It is recommended a second competent/trained carer is positioned in the water
immediately adjacent to the patient.