broda ClearPath User manual

BRODA Seating
560 Bingemans Centre Drive
Kitchener, Ontario Canada N2B 3X9
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
OM-930.7.30.2012 www.seatingisbelieving.com www.brodaseating.com Email: [email protected]m
Operating Manual
with TPU Comfort Technology™
Register your warranty online at www.brodaseating.com
Distributor/Rep: This manual must
be given to the caregiver responsible
for this chair and its occupant.
Caregiver: Before using this chair,
read this manual thoroughly and save
for future reference.
ClearPath Positioning ClearPath Mobility

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Contents
FOREWORD.................................................................................................................................................................1
GENERAL INFORMATION........................................................................................................................................2
1DEFINITIONS ......................................................................................................................................................3
2SAFETY REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................................................4
2.1 Training........................................................................................................................................................4
2.2 Application...................................................................................................................................................4
2.3 Shipping and Storage ...................................................................................................................................4
2.4 Pre-Service Check........................................................................................................................................5
2.5 Hazards ........................................................................................................................................................5
2.5.1 Position of Chair - “Danger of Falling”...................................................................................................5
2.5.2 Position of Seat Tilt - “Danger of Tipping”.............................................................................................5
2.5.3 Location of Chair - “Danger of Tipping or Falling Objects”...................................................................5
2.5.4 Total Lock Wheel Brakes - “Danger of Falling” .....................................................................................5
2.5.5 Re-Positioning of Resident - “Danger of Clamping”...............................................................................6
2.5.6 Unintended Movement - “Danger of Falling or Collision”......................................................................6
2.5.7 Resident Clothing - “Risk of Injury to Resident’s Skin” .........................................................................6
2.5.8 Improper Restraint Use - “Risk of Serious Injury”..................................................................................6
2.6 Improper Use................................................................................................................................................7
2.7 Cleaning .......................................................................................................................................................7
2.8 Maintenance.................................................................................................................................................9
2.9 Resident Specific Instructions....................................................................................................................10
3OPERATION AND MOVEMENT.....................................................................................................................11
3.1 Seat Tilt......................................................................................................................................................11
3.2 Back Recline (Optional on Mobility, Standard on Positioning).................................................................11
3.3 Elevating Leg Rest (Optional on Mobility, Standard on Positioning)........................................................12
3.4 Leg Rest Length Adjustment......................................................................................................................12
3.5 Wings (Optional on Mobility, Standard on Positioning)............................................................................12
3.6 Armrest Height Adjustment .......................................................................................................................13
3.7 Armrest Depth Adjustment ........................................................................................................................14
3.8 Seat Depth Adjustment ..............................................................................................................................14
3.9 Seat Height Adjustment .............................................................................................................................15
3.10 Casters........................................................................................................................................................16
3.11 Back Recline Installation and Removal .....................................................................................................16
3.12 Elevating Legrest Installation and Removal ..............................................................................................17
3.13 Swing Away Legrest Hanger Installation and Removal ............................................................................18
3.14 Push Bar Installation ..................................................................................................................................18
3.15 Side Panel Installation................................................................................................................................18
3.16 Accessories (Options) ................................................................................................................................19
3.17 Motor Vehicle Use (Vehicle Transport Package Option) ..........................................................................19
INSPECTION AND FUNCTIONAL TESTING ........................................................................................................23
Functional Testing...................................................................................................................................................24
4TECHNICAL INFORMATION..........................................................................................................................25
4.1 Specifications.............................................................................................................................................25
4.2 Labels.........................................................................................................................................................27
5COMMON TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR ..........................................................................................28
5.1 Troubleshooting for Gas Cylinders............................................................................................................28
6WARRANTY......................................................................................................................................................30

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FOREWORD
Congratulations on your purchase of a BRODA chair and thank you for your confidence in our
company and products.
BRODA assumes a leadership role in providing optimum re-positioning functions and mobility
for residents of long-term care institutions. Our chairs do not look like traditional chairs and offer
advantages unique to BRODA. We are sure that after using your BRODA chair, you will be
convinced that your resident’s quality of life will be greatly enhanced.
This manual will assist you in making the best use of the capabilities of your BRODA chair and
will ensure that you quickly become familiar with its operation.
After reading this manual, if you have any questions about the safe and effective operation of
your BRODA chair or accessories contact your local BRODA representative or our Head Office
Customer Service personnel for further assistance.
Head Office:
BRODA Seating
560 Bingemans Centre Drive
Kitchener, Ontario Canada N2B 3X9
Phone: [phone] Toll Free Can/US: 1-800-668-0637
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
URL: www.brodaseating.com www.seatingisbelieving.com

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GENERAL INFORMATION
This document provides guidance on the safe and effective operation of the BRODA chair.
Information in this manual must be followed at all times.
Anyone involved with the operation or maintenance of the BRODA chair, including the
resident’s family members, must read this operating manual before using the chair.
The resident’s primary caregiver is responsible for ensuring that anyone who is unfamiliar with,
unwilling, or unable to adhere to the safety and operating instructions, is not permitted to operate
or move the chair.
A copy of this instruction manual must always be available.
BRODA accepts no liability for damages, injury or accidents caused by operating errors,
improper maintenance, or disregard of the instructions in this manual, including any resident
specific instructions.
BRODA reserves the right to make changes to the specifications, dimensions, functions, or
components of its products without notice. Product representations in this manual may vary from
delivered products.
Each BRODA chair has a unique identifying serial number that must be maintained on the chair
as well as with any equipment records.

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1DEFINITIONS
“BRODA” means BRODA Enterprises Inc. doing business as BRODA Seating.
“BRODA chair” refers to ClearPath™ model.
“Long-Term Care Institution” refers to a nursing home, hospital, or other healthcare facility that provides health and
personal care to its residents on a long-term basis.
“Resident” refers to an individual living in a long-term care institution under the care of professional caregivers.
“Professional Caregiver” refers to doctors, nurses, therapists, nursing aids, healthcare aids, and other specialists who
work in a long-term care institution and provide health and personal care to its residents.
“Caregiver” refers to any person in a long-term care institution who is appropriately trained to provide care or
services to the resident or the chair used by the resident and may include the resident’s family members or guardian.
“Seat Tilt” refers to changing the relative angle between the chair’s seat and the chair frame or ground without
changing the relative angle between the back and the seat.
“Back Recline” refers to changing the relative angle between the chair’s back and the seat.
“Footrest Elevation” and “Leg Rest Elevation” refers to changing the relative angle between the chair’s footrest
and/or leg rest and the seat.
“Transfer(s)” refers to the movement of a resident into or out of the chair with the assistance of their caregiver(s).
“Mechanical Transfer(s)” refers to the movement of a resident into or out of the chair with the assistance of their
caregiver(s) using a patient lift or other assistive device that bares the weight of the resident.

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2SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
2.1 Training
Before the chair is put into service, this manual must be read thoroughly by the caregiver(s) directly
responsible for the resident’s care.
After the chair is put into service, this manual must be read thoroughly by any new caregivers prior to
operating or moving the chair.
For the purpose of this manual, a resident’s family member who shares responsibility for their care is considered a
caregiver and is subject to the same competency before being permitted by the resident’s primary caregiver to
operate of move the chair.
Prior to first use, the customer must arrange for an in-service on the operation and safety requirements in this
manual, must be given to the resident’s caregivers by the local BRODA representative who supplied the chair.
The primary caregiver must maintain a list of caregivers who have read this manual and who they have authorized to
operate and move the chair.
The resident’s primary caregiver is responsible for ensuring that anyone who is unfamiliar with, unwilling, or unable
to adhere to the safety and operating instructions, is not permitted to operate or move the chair.
The operations of the chair must be performed by the resident’s primary caregiver who is responsible for seating. All
The operations and adjustments performed should be done in a manner to ensure the overall safety, comfort and
well-being of the resident, caregiver and third party. All operations and adjustments required for the resident should
be determined by the resident’s primary caregiver who is responsible for seating.
2.2 Application
BRODA chairs are intended exclusively for residents of long-term care institutions who are under the care of
professional caregivers. The suitability of a BRODA chair must be determined by a qualified caregiver who is
familiar with the seating needs of the intended resident. Any other use of the chair is excluded from possible liability
claims.
ClearPath is a 2 in 1 mobility and positioning chair designed to accommodate a wide spectrum of needs with
adjustments that are performed at the factory or in the field.
ClearPath is not to be used in the shower. The frame and components will rust, and will void the warranty.
The chairs are not explosion resistant and must not be used where there are flammable gases or liquids present (e.g.,
anesthetics, volatile solvents and cleaners, etc.)
BRODA chairs are designed for use with specific BRODA parts and accessories. The use of non-BRODA parts or
accessories with a BRODA will void the warranty and is excluded from possible liability claims.
BRODA chairs may only be used as described in this manual and with proper regard for recognized healthcare and
workplace safety and accident prevention practices.
2.3 Shipping and Storage
BRODA chairs should be shipped and stored in an upright position and not stacked higher than 3 boxes. No other
materials should be shipped or stored on top of a BRODA box. BRODA boxes should not be placed on pallets.

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BRODA chairs should be shipped and stored at temperatures between -20ºC and 40ºC. BRODA chairs should not be
used until they are between 0ºC and 30ºC.
BRODA chairs should be kept in a clean, dry environment. Do not leave BRODA chairs outdoors as it may cause
the paint to peel.
Upon receipt, the shipping carton must be immediately examined for damage. Any damage should be noted on the
delivery receipt and a request for inspection by the transportation company should be made. Next, the shipping
carton should be opened and the chair must be examined for concealed shipping damage. If the chair appears to be
damaged, do not use the chair. File a concealed damage report with the transportation company.
2.4 Pre-Service Check
BRODA chairs are delivered fully assembled. If the chair does not appear to be ready to use upon receipt,
immediately contact your supplier and do not put the chair into service until any concerns have been resolved.
Visually inspect the chair for damage, missing parts, and loose fasteners prior to testing the chair’s functions.
Functional testing must be successfully completed after visual inspection and before use. These obligations apply to
the chair’s first use and to all subsequent uses (Section 4: Inspection and Functional Testing).
2.5 Hazards
2.5.1 Position of Chair - “Danger of Falling”
Immediately after a resident is transferred into a chair, we recommend that the chair’s seat be tilted sufficiently to
prevent the resident from sliding or falling forward off the chair. The amount of seat tilt used should be determined
by the resident’s caregiver who is responsible for seating.
On ClearPath models in which a legrest is included, we recommend that the resident’s feet be correctly positioned
on the footplate and slightly to fully elevated when applicable, to prevent the resident from sliding or falling forward
off the chair. The amount of elevation used should be determined by the resident’s caregiver who is responsible for
seating.
2.5.2 Position of Seat Tilt - “Danger of Tipping”
We recommend that the chair’s seat be tilted sufficiently to prevent the resident from tipping the chair forward or
backward, or from slumping and sliding in the chair. The amount of seat tilt used should be determined by the
resident’s caregiver who is responsible for seating. Always ensure that the resident is properly positioned before
operating the seat tilt.
2.5.3 Location of Chair - “Danger of Tipping or Falling Objects”
We recommend that when a resident has been moved to their destination, the chair is placed where the resident
cannot reach handrails or other objects, fixed or movable. This is to prevent the resident from pulling the chair over
or pulling themselves off the seating surface and to prevent the resident from pulling movable objects onto the chair
and themselves.
We recommend that the chair be used in a supervised area to prevent untrained residents, caregivers, or third parties
from unauthorized operation, movement, or unsafe actions such as sitting or leaning on the reclined back, elevated
footrest, or the armrests. These actions, if not prevented, put the chair at risk of tipping or damage to the chair.
We recommend that a chair only be located on a level surface to minimize the risk of tipping over.
2.5.4 Total Lock Wheel Brakes - “Danger of Falling”
The special casters found on the BRODA chair have total lock brakes which prevent the wheels from turning and
swiveling. The brakes must always be applied when:
1) the chair is not in use;
2) a resident is being transferred (moved) into or out of the chair; and,
3) the chair is not being moved by a caregiver or being self propelled by the resident

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It is important to note that if the brakes are applied while the resident is in the chair, that the caregiver does not leave
the resident unattended, especially those residents who have the capability or tendency to move the chair and/or
those who may be agitated. This could cause harm to the resident if they attempt to move the chair while the brakes
are applied.
Failure to follow these instructions will unnecessarily increase the risk of serious falls by residents, caregivers, or
third parties caused by the chair unintentionally moving.
2.5.5 Re-Positioning of Resident - “Danger of Clamping”
BRODA chairs offer the benefits of seat tilt, back recline, leg rest/footrest elevation, and moveable arms. During the
movement of any of these functions, the following safety measures must be observed:
1) The resident’s arms must be positioned on the armrests or inside the chair frame with their hands
on their body.
2) The resident’s feet must be correctly positioned on the footrest.
3) All of the chair’s brakes have been applied.
4) Only one caregiver at a time attempts to operate the chair’s functions.
5) Only one chair function is operated at a time.
6) The rear wheels are in the trailing position, behind the chair frame.
7) The residents’ and caregivers’ body are clear of all pinch points before operating the chair’s
functions.
Failure to follow these safety measures can put the residents’ or caregivers’ limbs at risk of injury. Residents who
may be unaware of their body position or unable to maintain a safe body position are at the most risk of the danger
from clamping and caregivers should be more cautious with these residents. A second caregiver may be required to
ensure the safety of these residents during these operations.
2.5.6 Unintended Movement - “Danger of Falling or Collision”
We recommend BRODA chairs for indoor use within a long-term care institution and where there is not enough
slope to cause the chairs to move unaided. Chairs used where the surface is uneven or sloped are at risk of
unintended movement and could become a serious danger to the resident, caregiver(s), or a third party. We
recommend that BRODA chairs are located away from stairwells, elevators, and exterior doorways within a long-
term care institution.
Outdoor use is appropriate only under the strict supervision and full attention of a caregiver who is physically
capable of preventing any unintended movement over any surfaces that are to be traveled on. We recommend that a
second caregiver assist when the chair is moved over surfaces that could cause significant unintended movement.
2.5.7 Resident Clothing - “Risk of Injury to Resident’s Skin”
We recommend that residents only be seated while they are fully dressed in clothing that meets the needs of their
specific condition. If after being fully dressed, a resident’s bare arms, legs, or body could still come into direct
contact with the TPU seating surface (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) or vinyl pads, we recommend the use of a
covering, such the BRODA terry cloth covered seat and/or back pad or a folded cloth bed sheet to prevent direct
contact. Direct contact of bare skin on the uncovered seat and back surface over a period of time could cause
moisture on the resident, and/or cause the skin to stick to the surface. Prior to the operation or movement of a chair
with a covering, the caregiver must ensure any covering placed on the chair does not come into contact with any
moving parts and is securely placed, so not to slip.
2.5.8 Improper Restraint Use - “Risk of Serious Injury”
We recommend that alternatives to physical restraints be used with residents while seated in the chair except under
the specific instructions of the resident’s primary caregiver and with permission of the resident’s family or guardian.
Physical restraints have been identified as a common cause of serious injury to residents while they are seated. We
recommend that the primary caregiver responsible for seating first consider the re-positioning options available in
the chair to reduce the risks of sliding, falling, or self-injury.
If a physical restraint is determined to be appropriate to prevent sliding or falling out of the chair, we recommend
that the BRODA thigh belt be used. In all cases, it is the resident’s primary caregiver that must take responsibility
for the safety of the resident if restraints are used.

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2.6 Improper Use
As outlined, the improper use of the chair is dangerous to the resident, caregivers, or third parties, and can consist of,
but is not limited to the following:
1) Unauthorized operation of the chair’s functions.
2) Unauthorized movement of the chair.
3) Inappropriate use of the chair for a resident who has not been assessed by a qualified caregiver
responsible for their seating.
4) Failure to frequently reposition the resident in the chair
5) Attempting to operate of multiple chair functions simultaneously by one or more caregivers.
6) Attempting to move the chair with the brake(s) applied.
7) Leaving the resident unattended in the chair near other objects.
8) Leaving an agitated resident in the chair in an unsupervised area.
9) Leaving a resident unattended.
10) Leaving a resident in a chair on a sloping surface.
11) Leaving a chair unattended on a sloping surface.
12) Using non-BRODA accessories on the chair.
13) Using the chair at temperatures below 0ºC.
14) Using the chair as a shower or bathing chair.
15) Using the chair for any use other than its intended purpose.
2.7 Cleaning
BRODA chairs should be wiped clean with soap and water. Diluted household strength ammonia or chlorine based
cleaner, as well as a hospital grade cleaner may be used if necessary.
Refer to the following guide for cleaning certain staining agents (Applies to the Permablok3® vinyl, as per the vinyl
manufacturer’s recommendations) The frame and components of the chair can be cleaned using the same procedure
as the vinyl.
The steps below are also located in the Cleaning Guide found on the back of the Broda chair
Staining Agent Cleaning Procedure
Eye Shadow / Mascara Step 1
Grease / Suntan Lotion / Chocolate Step 1
Blood / Bodily Fluids Step 2
Red Lipstick Step 2
Oil Base Paint / Tar / Asphalt Step 3
Other Tough Stains Step 4 or 5*
Step 1: Remove excess spill with a damp cloth. Clean with a 1:1 mix of Ivory® liquid and water. Rinse with clean
water and dry.
Step 2: Use a straight application of concentrated cleaners such as Formula 409® or Fantastik® Spray Cleaner.
Then wipe with a clean cloth. If using a hospital grade cleaner, follow the diluting instructions on the label.
Step 3: Use a 1:1 mix of ammonia and water or a 1:4 mix of bleach and water. Rinse with clean water and dry.
Step 4: Use a straight application of naphtha (lighter fluid). Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat surface dry.
Step 5: Use a 1:1 mix of isopropyl alcohol and water. If the stain persists, use straight alcohol. Rinse thoroughly
with clean water and pat dry. If the stain remains, use a 1:1 mix of acetone and water. Rinse with clean water and pat
surface dry.
*Note: for cleaning that requires steps 4 or 5 – Use a soft cotton cloth saturated with the cleaning material and rub
the stain in circles 10 times. Pat dry with another soft cotton cloth, and check results.

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Ensure that the entire chair including removable and non removable parts is thoroughly cleaned.
Pay close attention to the frame, fasteners, parts and casters, as well as the padding for an even, thorough clean.
BRODA chairs should not be cleaned with petroleum based cleaners. Any petroleum based products that come in
contact with any vinyl should be removed as quickly as possible. Petroleum based products make vinyl brittle and
will damage the cushions. Metal parts and cushions should be wiped completely dry after cleaning. Do not launder
vinyl padding. Terry cloth seat and back covers can be laundered and tumble dried. Neoprene pads (side pads, calf
and foot pad) should be laundered in cool water on gentle cycle with detergent such as Draft or Woolite per
manufacturer’s spec.. Lay Neoprene pads or drape to dry.
Do not allow the chair to air dry. Leaving the chair to air dry and not ensuring the entire chair is completely dry may
cause the frame and components to rust. Solvents such as those found in spray lubricants should not be used on
BRODA Chairs as they can damage moving parts.
Frequency and method of cleaning the chairs should be determined by facility infection control protocols. If visibly
soiled, thoroughly clean the chair immediately as per the cleaning instructions in this manual.
The cleaning instructions in this manual are guidelines only. Results may vary under actual conditions. The
information does not relieve the user of proper and safe use of the product and all cleaning agents and consideration
for the overall cleaning maintenance of the chair. Cleaning and care instructions must be followed in conjunction
with facility infection control protocols.
BRODA will not accept warranty or liability claims on chairs that have not been cleaned according to the
instructions or cared for in proper regard for patient, caregiver and third party safety and hygiene.. The use of certain
agents may be harmful to the surface appearance and lifespan of the vinyl. BRODA assumes no responsibility
resulting from the use of such cleaning agents to the vinyl.
Touch up paint is available for the powder coated frame. Please call Broda’s Customer Service Department if touch
up paint is required. Do not leave BRODA chairs outdoors as the frame is not UV protected. Leaving the chairs
outdoors could cause the paint to peel.
Formula 409® is a trademark of the Clorox Company.
Fantastik™® is a trademark of DowBrands, Inc.
Trademark of the Dow Chemical Company.
Ivory® is a trademark of Proctor and Gamble.