2
push rims will allow you to maintain maximum balance. Do not try to force yourself
over an obstruction by propulsion and never use the sides of a doorway to pull
yourself through a passageway.
2.2 Leaning
Do not lean over the side of your wheelchair since such an action may cause you to
lose balance and fall. (See Figure 2.1)
Figure 2.1
Figure 2.2
Figure 2.3
2.3 Negotiating Inclines
2.3.1 Never turn on a hill due to the danger of tipping.
2.3.2 When assisting, go straight up a slope. If user needs to go down midway, walk
backwards until user is on level ground. (See Figures 2.2 and 2.3)
2.3.3 Avoid stopping on an incline; it can potentially cause you to lose control of the
chair.
2.3.4 Do not use the brakes to slow down or stop the wheelchair; this could cause it to
seize up, causing you to lose control or fall out of the chair.
2.3.5 Whenever possible, utilize help from an assistant/attendant while negotiating
inclines.
2.4 Kerb(Curbs)
2.4.1 Whenever possible get help from an assistant/attendant (if you have assistance
make sure that your chair is equipped with push handles).
2.4.2 Avoid hard impacts when descending a curb. A hard impact could adversely affect
the chair.
2.4.3 Never try to scale or descend curbs that exceed a normal height (30-50mm).
2.4.4 Always be careful when climbing curbs and never move up or down a curb in
reverse without an assistant.
