4. SAFETY AND HANDLING
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires close attention of the wheelchair occupant as well as the attendant. This manual
points out the most common procedures and techniques involved in the safe operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is
important to practice and master these safety techniques until both occupant and attendant(s) are comfortable in maneuvering
around the frequently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The techniques that are discussed on the following pages have been used successfully
by many.
Individual wheelchair users often develop skills to deal with daily living activities that may differ from those described in this
manual. Inspired by Drive recognizes and encourages each individual to try what works best for him/her in overcoming architectural
obstacles that they may encounter, however ALL WARNINGS and CAUTIONS given in this manual MUST be followed. Techniques in
this manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair occupant and attendant with “safety” as the most important consideration
of all.
4.1 Stability and Balance
To assure stability and proper operation of this wheelchair, occupant MUST at all times maintain proper balance.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the wheelchair have an effect on the center of gravity. Inspired by Drive
recommends always using seat positioning belts for additional safety.
DO NOT lean forward out of the wheelchair any further than the length of the armrests. Make sure the casters are pointing in the
forward position whenever the occupant leans forward. This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a
straight line.
WARNING
:
If you fail to heed these warnings, a fall, tip-over, or loss of control may and could result in serious bodily injury to
the occupant or others, damage to the chair and surrounding property.
• The seat positioning belt is a positioning belt only. It is not designed for use as a safety device withstanding high stress
loads such as auto or aircraft safety belts. If signs of wear appear, belt MUST be replaced IMMEDIATELY.
• DO NOT climb, go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 10°. Proceed down ramps or slopes slowly to avoid
hard braking or sudden stops.
• DO NOT carry heavy objects on occupant’s lap while occupying the wheelchair.
• This wheelchair has been designed to accommodate one individual. If more than one individual occupies the
wheelchair this may adversely affect the stability of the wheelchair.
• Occupant should NEVER attempt to pick up objects by reaching. Reaching or leaning will affect the center of balance of
the chair. This may cause the occupant to fall or tip over.
• Adjustments to the wheelchair MUST be performed by a qualified technician. The back height, seat depth, back angle,
seating system, tilt angle, seat height, size/position of the rear wheels, size/position of the front casters, as well as the
user condition directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any change to one or any combination of these may
reduce the wheelchair stability.
Many activities require the wheelchair occupant to reach, bend and transfer in an
out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to normal balance,
center of gravity, and weight distribution of the wheelchair. Refer to Center of
Gravity Figure on the right.
WARNING:
Avoid carrying heavy objects on the push handles which will shift
the center of gravity reducing rearward stability.
To determine and establish occupant particular safety limits, practice bending,
reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a
qualified healthcare professional BEFORE attempting active use of the wheelchair.
