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Overall user manual
© 2009 VAN OS MEDICAL UK LTD.
Tel. +44(0)1757 701177, Fax +44(0)1757 706011, E-mail:
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www.vanosmedical.com
We recommend you to use anti-tip wheels. They prevent you from tipping the wheelchair over backwards
(figure 12). Depending on the model of your Excel wheelchair sometimes these are a standard item and
sometimes they are an optional extra.
Do not carry any weight on the back of the wheelchair whilst ascending (figure 13). This changes the
balance and increases the chances of tipping backwards.
Make sure the footrest is minimum 7 cm from the ground when you are descending a slope. This is in order to
ensure your safety at the end of the slope. Always look forward when you descend and do not lean forward as this
can cause overturning. Lean slightly backward in order to increase stability.
Make sure you have your wheelchair under control at all times. Do not hurry down the slope, but move slowly and
safely. The speed of descent is controlled by the amount of grip strength that you exercise on the hand rims. In an
effort to prevent friction burns to your hands, it is recommended that you use gloves. To reduce the risk that you
burn your hands or lose control over the wheelchair, you need to slowly descend a slope.
Do not use the wheel brakes during the descent. The wheel brakes are designed for static braking of the rear
wheels whilst stationary.
Avoid changing direction as you descend. Despite that your EXCEL® wheelchair is designed for balance and control,
a change of direction on the slope can change the balance which will cause instability.
If you are using an attendant they should be aware that even with a slight slope already considerable traction
should be exercised (figure 15).
Warning:
Using the wheel brakes to slow down the wheelchair whilst driving can cause a sudden stoppage. The
result of this can be that the chair rotates to one side and tilts, or abrupt stops so that the seat tilts
forward.
If your wheelchair is used in an environment where there are many slopes, it is advisable to fit a drum
braking system for the attendant to use.
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