Wheelchair Safety

With a large number of people and cars on today's streets, it is important for pedestrians to stay safe. This is especially important for wheelchair users, who may be more vulnerable than able-bodied people. The same applies to helpers or assistants pushing a person in a wheelchair.

The safest and most comfortable way to use both manual and powered wheelchairs is to be aware at all times. This includes other people, vehicles, roads and pavements. It is also important to be familiar with the mechanics of the wheelchair you are operating.

There are a number of points to remember when using a wheelchair outside. The user should be visible, wearing clothing that is bright and noticeable. Clothes should also be comfortable and appropriate for the weather conditions. It is advisable for the user, if they are turning the wheels themselves, to wear gloves for comfort.

Once the person is sitting comfortably in the chair, the manufacturer's seat belt should be used to ensure maximum safety. If no seat belt is installed, choose one that suits the wheelchair design and the user's safety needs. All four wheels must be kept on the ground and the user must keep their hands clear of the wheel spokes when manoeuvring.

Always plan your route, and look out for kerbs, uneven surfaces and obstacles. For a smooth ride, avoid obstacles that will jolt the foot pedals or the footplate. Also know your limitations and strengths - don't try and attempt anything that is beyond your capabilities. It is important as well to always cross the road in a place where you can be seen easily.

If assisting a wheelchair user, it may be best to reverse up the steepest parts of any outdoor building, to provide more control. If you proceed forwards you may find the front wheels lifting off the surface because of the distribution of weight in the wheelchair. Breaks should also be taken frequently to control speed.

Inside buildings, flights of stairs can pose problems for wheelchair users. Public buildings must comply with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), and provide sufficient disabled access for staff and visitors. Ramps can be installed to allow a person in a wheelchair to negotiate two or three steps inside a building. Passenger lifts are an alternative to a flight of stairs, used not only by people in wheelchairs but also parents with pushchairs.

Platform lifts are another alternative and can be ideal in situations where a normal passenger lift or a wheelchair ramp is not possible. For safety and convenience, they should be fitted with a light coloured non-slip floor material and a handrail and an emergency communication system. This includes an alarm button and telephone.

movemanSKG is a leading supplier of platform lifts and has installed thousands of units in schools, leisure centres, shops and other public buildings. Its Companion Prestige lift is designed for travel up to 3 storeys indoors and can carry up to 400kg, enough for a wheelchair user and an attendant. The doors can be automatic, which allows the wheelchair user to keep their hands free for manoeuvring.

Wheelchairs are not the fastest, nor the easiest forms of transportation. It is important to plan ahead, practice safety measures and make use of platform lifts where available. This way, you should enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.

For more information visit www.movemanskg.co.uk.

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