Sunrise Medical 8HM User manual

Wheelchair User Manual
Modular 8HM & 9HM
Tall Modular 8TM & 9TM
IMPORTANT:
-
DO NOT USE YOUR WHEELCHAIR UNTIL THIS MANUAL HAS BEEN READ
AND UNDERSTOOD.
A C T I V E D A I L Y L I V I N G

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Contents
AMENDMENT RECORD .............................................................................................................. 2
1.0 Important nformat on .......................................................................................................... 3
2.0 Intended user ........................................................................................................................ 6
3.0 Wheelcha r features ............................................................................................................. 8
4.0 Wheelcha r set-up for use .................................................................................................. 10
5.0 Wheelcha r operat on ......................................................................................................... 15
6.0 Transport ng your wheelcha r. .......................................................................................... 21
7.0 Wheelcha r clean ng and ma ntenance ............................................................................. 24
8.0 Opt onal features and accessor es .................................................................................... 26
9.0 D sposal / recycl ng of mater als ....................................................................................... 40
10.0 Warranty ............................................................................................................................ 40
11.0 Wheelcha r d mens ons .................................................................................................... 41
12.0 Wheelcha r spec f cat on .................................................................................................. 42
Notes ......................................................................................................................................... 43
AMENDMENT RECORD
ISSUE
PAGE
AMENDMENT
DATE
2nd P31 ALR warnings revised June 2007
2a Front back covers Sunrise logo added Feb 2008
2b Front rear covers, p 5
P40
Updated references to
2007/47/EEC
Life expectancy added
Mar 2010
2c P6,36 Outdated reference to
max user mass on QP QR
wheels (133Kg) removed
Feb 2015

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1.0 Important nformat on
1.1 Important s mbols in this manual
1.2 Wheelchair Identification
1.3 Labels Fitted to the wheelchair
1.4 Rules and regulations
1.5 Modifications and alterations
Please read this information carefully or have the complete contents of this user manual
explained to you in detail. If there are any points you are not absolutely clear about ask your
healthcare specialist * to clarify them, during any official handover, before attempting to use this
equipment for the first time.
This manual contains important hints and information on: -
• Safety
• Operat on
• Care and ma ntenance
The contents of this manual are intended to cover all the general points relating to your new
wheelchair. As part of our ongoing product improvement and development programme, changes
may take place at short notice. This wheelchair may have been prescribed specifically for you
and may have features not detailed in this literature.
In order to ensure you gain maximum benefit and full enjoyment from your wheelchair,
arrangements may have been made to carry out an official handover shortly after delivery. Your
healthcare specialist* will notify you of this in advance. If not please contact your Wheelchair
Service.
Prior to delivery, your wheelchair will have undergone a thorough pre-delivery inspection by our
factory-trained staff. Before using your wheelchair, you should have received appropriate
instruction from your healthcare advisor, therapist or rehabilitation engineer.
The visiting healthcare specialist * will carry out a series of final safety checks. Account will be
taken of your clinical requirements as well as your social and environmental needs, including all
necessary adjustments to ensure optimum comfort.
Neither Sunrise Medical (the equipment manufacturers) nor the distributor or prescribing
Authority (NHS) will accept responsibility for damage or injury caused by misuse or non-
compliance with instructions or advice set out in this manual.
* Your Healthcare Specialist may be a Rehabilitation Engineer or Occupational Therapist or
Wheelchair Service Personnel.

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1.1 Important s mbols in this manual
THIS SYMBOL WARNS YOU OF A RISK!
This symbol is used to give a warning or caution that is related to the safe use of the
wheelchair, follow the instructions to avoid personal injury or damage to the product.
This symbol indicates hints and suggestions, which should help make operating the
wheelchair easier and point out any special functions.
This symbol indicates hints and suggestions that should not be carried out while
operating the wheelchair.
This symbol indicates the use of different tools and other adjustments or
service/maintenance may be required. It should only be carried out by suitably trained
or competent persons.
1.2 Wheelchair Identification
Each wheelchair carries a unique identification/serial number that is printed on the serial number
label. This label is fitted on the left hand side of the wheelchair on the rear vertical or horizontal
frame tube. See figure 1 on self propelling and figure 2 below for location on transit model.
This label also carries the model code designation, which includes the wheelchair size and
colour. In the event of any queries please have this information to hand if contacting Sunrise
Medical.
Sunrise Medical Ltd
High Street
Wollaston
West Midlands
DY8 4PS
Telephone :- 01384 446622
Telfax:- 01384 446644
F g 1 Label locat on F g 2 Label locat on

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1.3 Labels Fitted to the wheelchair
Label Label mean ng
This label shows the position of tie down
location points for wheelchair transport.
(See chapter 6.3 on transportation)
This label shows an example of the
maximum user’s weight for the
wheelchair.
This label shows the model number,
serial number, max weight and
manufacturer details.
This label shows the canvas Flame
retardency details, the label is fitted to the
rear of the backrest canvas.
1.4 Rules and regulations
The wheelchair is manufactured to meet the requirements of Medical Devices Directive
93/42/EEC, BS EN 12183 and ISO 7176-19 – heeled mobility devices for use in motor
vehicles.
• The wheelchair and occupant is capable of being transported in a vehicle using an
approved Wheelchair Tie Down Restraint System (WTORS).
• The Upholstery meets the requirements of ISO 7176-16 and the fire and furnishing
regulations SI1324. Other materials wherever possible are ignition retardant.
• Sunrise Medical declares under its sole responsibility that this product is in conformity
with the requirements of directive 93/42/EEC amended by 2007/47/EEC.
1.5 Modifications and alterations
Making any unauthorised modifications or using non-approved parts, may change the wheelchair
structure and create an unsafe condition.
Ne ther Sunr se Med cal nor your wheelcha r prov der w ll accept respons b l ty for
damage caused by m suse or non-compl ance w th nstruct ons or adv ce set out n th s
manual.
Users attempt ng to use the wheelcha r beyond the manufacturer’s recommendat ons
may put themselves at r sk of ser ous njury or even death.

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2.0 Intended user
2.1 Intended user
2.2 Intended use
2.1 Intended user
The Lomax Modular 8HM and Tall Modular 8TM are self propelling wheelchairs intended for use
by persons with disabilities or difficulty in walking but who are capable of propelling themselves,
up to a maximum weight of 160kg.
The 8HM has a seat to ground height of 48cm (19”) and the 8TM with a seat to ground height of
56cm (22”) is suitable for taller persons.
The Lomax Modular 9HM and Tall Modular 9TM are attendant push (transit) wheelchairs
intended for use by persons with disabilities who are unable to propel themselves and require the
assistance of an attendant or carer to push them in the wheelchair, up to a maximum weight of
160Kg (25 stone). Section 12 shows the wheelchair specification.
• The maximum weight limit for the wheelchair includes both the user and the
weight of any accessories such as trays, cushions headrests, oxygen bottles that
may be fitted to the wheelchair. Such items may affect the stability of the
wheelchair and it recommended that a risk assessment be carried out prior to their
use.
• Users who intend to propel themselves should be aware of the physical demands
of propelling themselves particularly with respect to their overall weight, and any
accessories that may be fitted to the wheelchair, their intended route, the type of
surface terrain they intend to travel on, slopes, and the overall distance to be
travelled including any return journey, the prevailing weather conditions such as
temperature both hot and cold, wind effect (wind chill effect) and precipitation
(rain/sleet/snow).
• Journeys should be planned so that users do not exert themselves beyond their
physical capabilities.
• Users should also be competent in controlling the wheelchair, taking into
consideration any physical demands and visual demands such as recognition of
different terrain surfaces, ability to avoid obstructions, pot holes, manhole covers
and gratings, pedestrian and highway traffic, signs /obstructions and dangers e.g.
when crossing roads and manoeuvring between parked cars or in heavily
pedestrianised areas such as shopping centres and malls.
• Attendants and carers who are pushing occupants in their wheelchairs should be
aware of the physical demands of pushing someone who may be significantly
heavier than themselves and the effort required to control the wheelchair and
occupant on different types of terrain surface, slopes and inclines.
• This wheelchair has been designed to be used at walking pace
Should the phys cal capab l t es requ red to push the wheelcha r be beyond the user,
carer or attendant consult w th your wheelcha r prov der. It s poss ble a powered
wheelcha r may be more appropr ate for your needs.
Should there be any changes n your cond t on or ab l ty ( nclud ng factors such as
body we ght) then seek adv ce from your wheelcha r prov der or healthcare profess onal
for further adv ce and nformat on.

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2.2 Intended use
Your wheelchair is intended for use in the home, the office, public places and buildings and
similar locations on pavements, pedestrian paths and firm surfaces. It is intended to assist with
the mobility of the user on the seat and should not be used as a ladder or as a means of pulling
or transporting items, or similar.
Do not use the wheelcha r on soft surfaces such as sand, deep snow, slush or mud
as th s may affect the stab l ty.
Care should be exerc sed when us ng the wheelcha r on wet or sl ppy surfaces such
as wet cobbles or cy pavements, as these may cause the wheels to sl p or may cause
carers/attendants controll ng the wheelcha r to sl p.
Using our wheelchair during darkness or poorl lit areas
When using your wheelchair during darkness or in poorly lit areas then consideration should be
given to the use of high visibility markers or reflectors that can be fitted to the wheelchair or the
use of high visibility/reflective clothing such as fluorescent waistcoats, belts or armbands,
particularly in poorly lit areas or when crossing the road.
Maximum safe slope
The maximum safe slope for this wheelchair is 6 degrees. (This represents a slope of approx 1 in
9)
See further notes and guidance in section 5.5 on wheelcha r stab l ty
Obstacle climbing 30 mm
Maximum safe slope 1 in 9 or 6º
Maximum User weight 160Kg (25 Stone)
Users, carers and attendants attempt ng to use the wheelcha r beyond the
manufacturer’s recommendat ons may put themselves at r sk of ser ous njury or even
death.

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3.0 Wheelcha r features
3.1 Description of the wheelchair
3.2 Wheelchair weights
3.1 Description of the wheelchair
The 8HM and the 8TM self-propelling folding wheelchairs are fitted with 61cm (24”) diameter
wheels and the 9HM and 9TM are fitted with 31cm (12.5”) diameter wheels. The standard
configuration for this wheelchair is shown in the Figures below which identifies the key
components.
The wheelchair can be used for transporting the occupant as a seat in a motor vehicle. It must be
used with the appropriate wheelchair tie down restraints and occupant restraints. See chapter
6.0 on Transportation for further details. Instruction is also given for transporting the wheelchair
when not occupied.
For details on the specification see chapter 12.
Instructions on how to fold and un-fold the wheelchair are given in the chapter 4.3.
Brake
Front castor
61
cm (24”)
d ameter wheels
Backrest
Footrest
Models 8HM & 8TM
Armrest
Push handle
Footplate
Models 9HM & 9TM
Backrest
31cm (12.5”)
d ameter wheels
Push handle
Brake
Front castor
Footrest
Footplate
Armrest

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3.2 Wheelchair weights
The overall weight of your wheelchair, including armrests and footrests, in the standard
configuration, is as follows: -
Self-Propelling 8HM 8TM: - 21 to 22Kg
Attendant Push 9HM 9TM: - 18.5 to 19.5Kg
(The larger the wheelchair the more mass it will have.)
The following parts of the wheelchair are removable;
Armrests, footrests, some types of backrest extensions, domed headrests, and quick release
wheels if fitted.
The weights of these parts are as follows: -
Armrest 0.9Kg each
Footrest footplate 1 Kg each
Domed Headrest Extension (if fitted) 0.7Kg
Backrest Extension (if fitted) 0.5Kg
Quick Release wheels (if fitted) 2Kg each
Other additional accessories will add further to the weight of the wheelchair.
The removal of detachable parts that are suppl ed e ther as standard or opt onal
requ rements as proscr bed or recommended by the user’s prescr ber, healthcare
profess onal or wheelcha r dealer, other than for the purpose of stor ng or transport ng
the wheelcha r s not recommended and may comprom se the correct use of the
wheelcha r by the user and the prov s on of any benef c al effects from the complete
equ pment.
Take precaut ons when us ng your wheelcha r to avo d f re r sks, such as avo d ng
smok ng or park ng aga nst open f res or heat source.
Remember also that direct heat such as sunlight will increase the temperature of parts on the
wheelchair such as the frame and they may be hot to touch.
Low temperatures such as frost will have the opposite effect and may make parts of the frame
very cold to touch.
Your wheelchair may be supplied with pneumatic tyres on the rear wheels. If these are punctured
you should inform your wheelchair dealer or repair contractor or wheelchair service in order that
they can be repaired correctly and that the wheel function can be checked after repair. Solid
tyres are available as options.
Additional equipment options are available for more details on these options see Chapter 8.0 on
optional features.

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4.0 Wheelcha r set-up for use
4.1 Footplate Angle and Height adjustment
4.2 Heel Loops
4.3 Folding and unfolding the wheelchair for use
4.4 Cushion
4.5 Armrests
4.6 Brakes
Your wheelchair should be delivered already assembled. You should remove any packaging
before use. If you have not used a wheelchair or are uncertain about any of the features of your
wheelchair then please contact your healthcare professional or wheelchair dealer or your
wheelchair service and ask for assistance. If you have been informed that you must receive
specific instructions about your wheelchair before using it then it is important that you await this
instruction for your own safety.
This advice also applies to carers or attendants who are not familiar with the use of the
wheelchair in order to ensure the safety of the occupant.
Before using the wheelchair ensure that the following adjustments/set up have been carried out.
It is recommended that any adjustments to your wheelchair, be carried out by suitably trained, or
qualified personnel. The information on adjustments below is intended for Healthcare Specialists.
4.1 Footplate adjustment
Both the height and the angle of the footplate are adjustable. It is recommended that the
footplates should not be set lower than 63mm or 2 inches.
Height adjustment
With the user sitting in the wheelchair,
lower the footplate and ensure that it is in a
comfortable position for their feet. The safest
position is usually with thighs horizontal, and
hips and knees at right angles. If the position
is not comfortable the footplate can be
adjusted as follows:
Loosen the Bolt A with a spanner; slide the
footplate stem up or down to the desired
position to position the footplate at the correct
height, and then re-tighten Bolt A securely
after adjustment.
Angle adjustment
The angle of the footplate can be adjusted by loosening
nut B, adjusting the screw to move the footplate up or down
and re-tighten nut B after adjustment.
It is easier and safer to get into your wheelchair if you turn
the footplates up and out of the way or take them off the
wheelchair.
To detach the footrest assembly: -
Pull the latch C towards the back of the wheelchair and the
footrest will then swing outwards and lift off the pivot pins.
To attach the footrest assembly: -
Bolt A
B
C

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Locate the holes on the footrest assembly onto the pivot pins on the wheelchair. Swing the
footrest inwards until the locking latch C engages
A small spring “R” clip may be fitted to prevent the footrest from detaching when the wheelchair is
lifted into a car boot.
4.2 Heel loops
Heel loops may be fitted to the footplates. These should be turned to rear of the wheelchair when
the footplates are in the down position
4.3 folding and unfolding the wheelchair for use
Unfolding the backrest
To put the backrest in the upright position, push the handles upwards and forwards and then
slide the levers (A) downwards fully.
Folding the backrest
The backrest can be folded to make storage of the wheelchair easier.
To fold the backrest, stand behind the wheelchair, grip the two small levers (A) positioned on
each side of the backrest (just above the armrests) and slide them upwards. Fold the backrest
down.

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Unfolding the complete wheelchair
1. Take hold of one or both of the push handles and pull the
backrest into the upright position. Make sure that it is locked
in this position by sliding the levers down fully. Ensure both
push handles are locked in position.
2. Turn the fingers towards the MIDDLE of the seat and push
down on the side of the seat with the flat of the hand until the
chair is completely open.
Never put your f ngers round the s des of the seat because
they can get trapped between the seat and the frame.
The wheelchair is fully open when the seat is taut and flat.
Folding the wheelchair for storage
1. Turn the heel loops, if fitted, to the front of the footplate and
then flip up the footplates.
2. Grasp the middle of the seat fabric at both front and rear and
give a sharp pull upwards. This will partially close the chair.
3. Push both sides together to fold the chair completely. Ensure
that the seat is not trapped in the frame when fully folded.
4. If required, fold the backrest down by pulling up the levers
and lowering the push handles as shown on the previous
page.
4.4 Cushion
If your wheelchair is supplied with a cushion this may be held in position by Velcro strips
underneath the cushion, which attaches to corresponding Velcro strips on the topside of the seat.
The cushion should be replaced after unfolding the wheelchair and removed before folding the
wheelchair.
Ensure the cushion is located in the centre of the seat.
Us ng a cush on ra ses the seated pos t on and may reduce the stab l ty of your
wheelcha r.
Some wheelchairs may be fitted with options or accessories. These are described in the Section
headed Options Accessories.
Some opt ons and accessor es may also affect stab l ty. Your healthcare profess onal
can prov de gu dance on the stab l ty of your wheelcha rs and should be consulted when
cush ons and accessor es are be ng used.

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4.5 Armrests
The armrests are detachable to enable sideways transfer or storage
to reduce the weight of the wheelchair. If the armrests have been
removed for storage or lifting the wheelchair, they should be replaced
as follows: -
Replacing the armrest
Put the armrest tubes into the armrest sockets. Press down on the
armrest until it clicks into position.
Removing the armrests
Turn the armrest lock lever A upwards and at the same time
hold the armrest at the centre and lift it out of the sockets at
the front and the rear.
4.6 Brakes
The wheelcha r brakes can be appl ed as follows: -
• Push the brake handle forward firmly.
• Ensure both the brakes on both sides are applied.
The wheelcha r brakes can be released as follows: -
• Pull the brake lever fully backwards to ensure that the brake bar is clear of the wheel.
Ensure the brakes on both sides are released.
• When releasing the brakes ensure the chair is stationary on a flat/level surface.
• Always apply the brakes when getting into and out of the wheelchair.
• Wheel brakes are not designed to slow the wheelchair down when it is moving. Wheel
brakes hold the chair in place when it is at a complete stop.
Push
brake
on to
operate
Brake
Push
brake
on to
operate
Brake

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It s recommended that any adjustments to your wheelcha r brakes be made by
su tably tra ned or qual f ed personnel.
Attendant operated hub brakes
If fitted hub or drum brakes operate on certain type of self-propelling and transit type wheels.
These allow the attendant to operate the brakes and control the brakes whilst moving e.g. uphill
or downhill as well as being used as a parking brake when the wheelchair is stationary.
To operate these brakes: -
Grip the lever handles at the rear of the backrest on the push handle and squeeze gently to
operate the brakes. The handles have a locking mechanism which operates to lock the brake
when it is squeezed to keep the brakes applied or have a thumb pin which when pushed inwards
lock the brakes on.
To release the brakes: -
Gently squeeze the handles and the flip the lock trigger off. Take
care when releasing the brakes to ensure that the wheelchair is not
going to go out of control by holding the push handles securely e.g.
when on a slope.
Squeeze the lever to
operate the hub brakes

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5.0 Wheelcha r operat on
5.1 Getting into and out of a wheelchair independentl
5.2 Sidewa s transfer
5.3 Seat belt
5.4 How to use our wheelchair
5.5 Wheelchair stabilit
5.1 Getting into a wheelchair independentl
• The wheelchair should be pushed up against a wall or solid
piece of furniture;
• The brakes should be on;
• The footplates should be hinged up;
• The user can then lower himself into the chair;
• The footplates should then be pushed down and the feet
rested on them in front of the heel loops.
Getting out of a wheelchair independentl
• The brakes should be on;
• The hinged footplates should be hinged up;
• With one hand on each armrest, the person should bend slightly
forward to bring the body weight to the front of the seat, and with both
feet firmly on the ground, one foot well back, push up into the upright
position.
When stand ng, do not stand on the footplates or the wheelcha r w ll t p up.
5.2 Sidewa s transfer
• The user should check that the brakes are on;
• The footplates should be hinged up or swung away and the
feet placed firmly on the ground;
• The armrest on the transfer side must be removed, swung
away or swung back;
• The user should bend slightly forward and, with one hand
placed on the bed/chair/WC and the other hand on the
opposite armrest, transfer across;
• A smooth, sliding board between wheelchair and bed allows
the user to slide across.
TRANSFERRING CAUTION: Always engage the wheel brakes before transferr ng n or
out of your wheelcha r.

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5.3 Seat belt
Before us ng your wheelcha r ensure the seat belt s worn and
correctly adjusted before use.
The seat belt is fitted to the wheelchair as shown in the illustrations. The
seat belt support loops are fitted to the backrest frame using the existing
lower backrest screw fitted through the eyelet of the belt loop.
It s mportant that the belt s routed around the back of
the wheelcha r. The buckle end can be fed between the
armrest and backrest.
Adjust the belt position so buckles are in the centre of the seat.
Adjust seat belt to su t the user’s needs as follows: -
To increase the belt length: - To reduce the belt length: -
Feed free belt through slide
adjusters and male buckle to
provide more belt length.
Feed free belt back through male
buckle and slide adjusters.
Ensure belt is not looped at
male buckle
When fastened check space between belt and user, when correctly
adjusted it should be possible to insert the flat of the hand between the
belt and user.
Generally the Lap Belt should be fixed so that the straps sit at an angle of
approximately 45°, and when correctly adjusted should not allow user to slip down
in the seat.
If n doubt about the use and operat on of the seat belt then ask your healthcare
profess onal, wheelcha r dealer, carer or attendant for ass stance.
Do not rely on the seat belt only when the wheelcha r and occupant are transported n
a veh cle, use the separate occupant lap and d agonal restra nts prov ded n the veh cle.
To fasten buckle: -
Firmly push male buckle into female buckle.
To release belt: -
Press exposed sides of male buckle and push
towards centre whilst gently pulling apart.

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5.4 How to use our wheelchair
Whenever using your wheelchair you should carry out the following checks before setting out:
• Ensure that the rear tyres are inflated correctly if pneumatic tyres are fitted. The tyre
pressure is 370Kpa (60psi/4.0Bar). If the tyres are not inflated correctly this may affect the
brake function.
• Ensure that the brakes are secure and are functioning correctly by applying the brake
and ensuring that the brake bar makes contact with the tyre.
• Check that the front castors swivel freely and the wheels rotate freely and the tyres are
free from damage.
• Check that the rear wheels are free from damage including any damaged, loose or bent
spokes on self-propelling wheels.
• Check that the seat and backrest are not damaged by cuts or tears or that there is no
sign of excessive sagging.
• Ensure that any removable parts have been refitted to the wheelchair
• Check that any detachable parts such as armrest and footrests which when refitted are
secured and will not detach when using the wheelchair.
Occupant control
Occupant control (self-propelled) chairs only have hand rims fitted on the outside of the rear
wheels.
By gripping the hand rims and pushing or pulling round the hand rim, the wheelchair can be
propelled either forward or backwards.
By pulling one wheel backwards and one wheel forwards using the hand rims, the wheelchair can
be turned around in a tight space. Check that there are no obstacles or people on the turning
space before starting this procedure.
Many pavements and roads slope towards the kerb and this may cause the wheelchair to veer to
one side. To counteract this it may be necessary to steer the wheelchair in the opposite
direction. Avoiding uneven or soft ground and utilising drop kerbs whenever possible may make
the journey more comfortable. The tyre grip of the wheelchair is affected by the surface over
which the wheelchair is pushed. Therefore, extra care should be taken when weather conditions
cause wet or icy surfaces.
• Make sure that the brakes are always on when the chair is not being pushed.
• Make sure that both feet are safely on the footplates and that clothing is safely
tucked in and cannot catch in the wheels.
• Use both hands on the push handles to control the chair.
• Look well ahead to avoid hazards (e.g. furniture, doors, etc.)
• Avoid steep and uneven surfaces because the chair may tip over.
• Avoid soft surfaces because the castors may get stuck.
• Try to achieve a smooth steady ride.
DO NOT turn too quickly.
DO NOT propel the wheelchair at speed in excess of normal walking pace.
DO NOT hang items such as bags or rucksacks on the back of the push handles, as this
can overload the chair and affect the stability of the wheelchair - causing it to tip over.
Doing a “wheelie” i.e. tilting the wheelchair backward to its balance point can be dangerous.
Do not attempt th s manoeuvre!!

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Attendant pushing
Keep in contact with the person in the chair. If you stop to look in shop windows or talk to
people; remember to turn the chair so that the person in the chair does not have to turn or lean.
DO NOT exceed the occupant weight limit for your chair and do not carry more than one
person. If you feel that your body weight may have changed then contact your healthcare
specialist.
• Ensure that all parts of the user’s body and clothing, including any rugs or blankets, are
clear of the moving parts such as the wheels.
Getting up and down kerbs
This should only be attempted when a carer or attendant are controlling the wheelchair.
Carers/attendants should bear in mind that they will be supporting more of the user’s weight
when the wheelchair is tipped rearwards and the heavier the user the more weight they will have
to support. If there is any doubt that this cannot be supported then seek dropped kerbs or ramps
and do not put the user or yourself at risk of injury.
The wheelcha r should never be t pped forwards as the occupant may fall out.
Getting up a kerb
First method
• The wheelchair footplates (or, if longer, the user’s feet)
should be taken to the edge of the kerb;
• The pusher should hold the wheelchair push handles firmly
and tilt the chair back, use one foot on the tipping lever to
assist and carefully tilt the wheelchair backwards
• The wheelchair should be brought forward until the back of
the wheels touch the kerb;
• The front wheels should be lowered down on the path;
• With the push handles held firmly the attendant should lift
and push the wheelchair forward.
Second method
• The wheelchair should be turned around so that the back
wheels are against the kerb;
• The attendant should hold the wheelchair push handles firmly
and push down with one foot on the tipping lever, tipping the
wheelchair backwards balancing it on the large wheels;
• Using his body weight, he should then pull the wheelchair off
the kerb and up onto the pavement.
Getting down a kerb
• The wheelchair castors should be taken to the edge of the kerb.
• The attendant should hold the wheelchair push handles firmly
and push down with one foot on the tipping lever, tipping the
wheelchair backwards balancing it on the large wheels.
• The large wheels should be taken to the edge of the kerb.
• The wheelchair should be lowered slowly down the kerb on its
back wheels before the castors are lowered gently down onto
the ground.
The wheelcha r should never be t pped forwards as the occupant may fall out.

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Going down a steep slope
The use of the wheelchair on slopes greater than the maximum recommended may put the user
at risk. If such slopes are unavoidable then
• It is safer for the attendant to take the wheelchair down
backwards.
• The occupant may be able to help by controlling the
wheels or the brakes. (Hub brakes if fitted are more
suited for this purpose)
• The user weight will have a significant effect on
controlling the wheelchair – the heavier the user the
more difficult it will be to control the wheelchair.
5.5 Wheelchair stabilit
Certain routines and movements may affect the stability of the wheelchair
The follow ng factors can affect the wheelcha r stab l ty: -
User bod movement
REACHING - BENDING FORWARD
DO NOT lean your body forward out of the wheelchair further than the length of the
armrests as this may affect your stability.
DO NOT attempt to pick up objects from the floor or to reach out at switches by
bending forward or reaching between your knees as this may affect your stability.
DO NOT attempt to reach objects by sliding forward to the edge of the wheelchair
seat as this may affect your stability.
Leaning forwards when going up slopes can improve the rearwards stability and leaning the
upper body uphill when moving across a slope can improve sideways stability.
REACHING - BENDING BACKWARDS
DO NOT reach back any further than your arm will extend without changing your
sitting position as this may affect your stability.
DO NOT
lean over the top of the backrest as it will shift the centre of gravity, risking
tipping over.
DO NOT
hang heavy loads or objects on the backrest. They may make the
wheelchair unstable, especially on an incline.
Assistive devices such as grab sticks can be used to reduce the upper body movement.
Contact your healthcare specialist for further details.

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Bod weight proportions
Upper torso weight and height, lower limb amputation, obesity, asymmetrical body positions
(leaning to one side) and muscle spasms may affect stability.
Operating environment
Hills, slopes, ramps, sloping pavements, dropped kerbs also affect stability, especially if contact
is made with small obstacles on slopes or hitting obstacles. Sloping surfaces should never be
attempted sideways. These can cause the user to slide forwards or fall forwards out of the
wheelchair.
Accessories or other equipment
Accessories generally affect the stability of the wheelchair. Seat cushions raise the centre of
gravity and reduce the stability of the wheelchair in all directions, backrest cushions will move the
centre of gravity forwards, which improves the rearwards stability but reduces forward stability.
Elevating leg rests fitted onto the front of the wheelchair will reduce the forward stability of the
wheelchair.
Anti tip levers
These can be fitted to the rear of the wheelchair to restrict the amount of rearwards tipping that
can occur.
Wheel position
The wheels of both the self-propelling wheelchair and the attendant push wheelchair can be
adjusted to a rearwards position to improve rearwards stability. This may affect the self-propelling
ability because the wheels have been moved further from the arms and shoulders.
Foot propelling
The recommended methods for propelling a wheelchair are: -
Self Propell ng wheelcha r
• Place feet on footplates and use the hand rims on the wheels to move the wheelchair.
Attendant push/trans t wheelcha rs
• Place feet on footplates and allow user or attendant to push the wheelchair.
Propell ng the wheelcha r by us ng the feet s not recommended as your feet may
encounter obstacles on the ground and the back of your legs may contact the cross
braces underneath the seat. Th s may also affect the stab l ty of the wheelcha r.
If you or your carer/attendant requ re further adv ce about stab l ty and ts effects
then ask your healthcare profess onal, wheelcha r dealer, or wheelcha r serv ce for further
nformat on.