R Healthcare
Modular
User Guide
Page
26
August 2013 Revision E
www.rhealthcare.co.uk
A basic security seat belt may become required after a period of use, if
the environment or method of use changes, or where the occupant
feels a need for greater security in the wheelchair. These can be fitted
retrospectively by a fully trained and competent technician, but if
unable to utilise any of these instructions, contact either your NHS
rehabilitation engineer or the manufacturer of the wheelchair.
A correctly fitted posture belt should fit over a users pelvis at
approximately 45 degrees from the anchor without obstruction from any
part of the wheelchair (e.g. skirt guard or armrest). The posture belt
should be adjusted so as to fit snugly around the users pelvis to
provide an appropriate sitting position. The adjustment of the belt must
be carried out by a competent person who is able to assess the clients
needs and frequency of checking of the belt adjustment. Future
reviews of an individuals needs should include consideration of the
appropriateness of the posture belt and its method of adjustment,
fastening and release especially where a users’ or carers’ capabilities
change over time.
Lengthening or shortening, is affected by slackening and adjusting the
webbing, as it passes through the male part of the fastener until the
desired fit is obtained. When adjusted ensure the webbing is tightened,
the buckle is located centrally, and the surplus webbing is secured by
the tri-glide provided.
Inspection and maintenance of posture belts and their fittings should
be included within the planned preventative maintenance programme
for the wheelchair.
Wheelchair seatbelts are not tested to meet the crash test standards
required for occupant restraint in a vehicle, but we advise that they
should remain in position during a journey to provide occupant security,
and support during normal traffic movements of sideways cornering
and speed changes.
Transportation, crash tested restraints for both wheelchair and
occupant are part of the actual vehicle equipment, and must be
secured to the vehicle itself, as shown in Fig.12 See section 2.10 of
this General Guide for more details.
N.B. The loop must be fitted in such a way that the eyelet is
underneath, and the loop uppermost, to prevent possible contact with
the wheel (Fig 10
²
). The belt must be fitted in one piece, go around
the client and must pass behind the push handle tubes of the
wheelchair.
Clean if required, using a damp cloth with a small amount of washing
up liquid. Rinse with a clean damp cloth.
All of our belts have flame retardant properties.