
9
SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
“Safety and Handling” of the wheelchair requires the
close attention of the wheelchair user as well as the
assistant. This manual points out the most common
procedures and techniques involved in the safe op-
eration and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is im-
portant to practice and master these safe techniques
until you are comfortable in maneuvering around the
frequently encountered architectural barriers.
Use this information only as a “basic” guide. The tech-
niques 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. Action by Invacare recog-
nizes and encourages each individual to try what works
best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles
that they may encounter. Techniques in this manual
are a starting point for the new wheelchair user and
assistant with “safety” as the most important consid-
eration for all.
STABILITYAND BALANCE
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheel-
chair, you must at all times maintain proper balance.
Your wheelchair has been designed to remain upright
and stable during normal daily activities as long as
you do not move beyond the center of gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the
chair have an effect on the center of gravity. Action by
Invacare recommends using seat restraints for addi-
tional safety while involved in activities that shift your
weight.
DO NOT lean forward out of the chair any further than
the length of the armrests. Make sure the casters are
pointing in the forward position whenever you lean
forward. This can be achieved by advancing the chair
and then reversing it in a straight line.
COPING WITH EVERYDAY OBSTACLES
Coping with the irritation of everyday obstacles can
be alleviated somewhat by learning how to manage
your wheelchair. Keep in mind your center of gravity
to maintain stability and balance.
A NOTE TO WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANTS
When assistance to the wheelchair user is required,
remember to use good body mechanics. Keep your
back straight and bend your knees whenever tilting
the chair or traversing curbs, or other impediments.
Also, be aware of detachable parts such as arms or
legrests. These must NEVER be used for hand-hold
or lifting supports, as they may be inadvertently re-
leased, resulting in possible injury to the user and/or
assistant(s).
When learning a new assistance technique, have an
experienced assistant help you before attempting it
alone.
TILTING
WARNING
DO NOT tilt the chair without assistance.
When tilting the wheelchair, an assistant should
grasp the back of the wheelchair on a non-remov-
able (non-detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair
occupant before tilting the wheelchair and remind
him/her to lean back. Be sure the occupant’s feet
and hands are clear of all wheels.
TILTING - CURBS:
After mastering the techniques of tilting the wheel-
chair, use this procedure to tackle curbs, short stairs,
etc.
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBES
Apply a continuous downward motion until the bal-
ance point is achieved and the front casters clear
the curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a differ-
ence in the weight distribution.
Roll the wheelchair forward and lower the front cast-
ers onto the sidewalk. Push the wheelchair forward
until the rear wheels roll up and over the curb. Slowly
lower the wheelchair in one continuous movement.
Do not let the wheelchair drop the last few inches to
the ground. This could result in injury to the occu-
pant.
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBES