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SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
9000 Topaz™Wheelchair 16 Part No. 1100869
SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF
WHEELCHAIRS
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 operation and maintenance of the wheelchair. It is
important 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 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. Invacare 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
user and assistant with safety as the most important consideration for all.
Stability and Balance
ƽ WARNING
Inasmuch as anti-tippers are an option on this wheelchair (you may order the 9000
Topaz with or without the anti-tippers), Invacare strongly recommends ordering
anti-tippers as an additional safeguard for the wheelchair user.
DO NOT go up or down ramps or traverse slopes greater than 4
o
.
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap. Inasmuch as the seat positioning strap is
an option on this wheelchair (you may order with or without the seat positioning
strap), Invacare strongly recommends ordering the seat positioning strap as an
additional safeguard for the wheelchair user. The seat positioning strap is a position-
ing 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.
To assure stability and proper operation of your wheelchair, you must at all times wear
your seat positioning strap and 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.
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 you lean forward.
This can be achieved by advancing the wheelchair and then reversing it in a straight line.