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SECTION 2—SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
Part No. 1100869 17 9000 Topaz™Wheelchair
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 wheelchair
or traversing curbs, or other impediments.
ƽ WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any removable (detachable) parts.
Lifting by means of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheelchair may result in
injury to the user or damage to the wheelchair.
Always verify that hand grips on the rear cane are secure prior to use when an assis-
tant is used to propel or lift the chair. ALWAYS check hand grips for any signs of
looseness or deterioration and if found, contact a qualified technician. DO NOT
attempt to move the wheelchair by pulling on the hand grips if they are found to be
unsecure or have deteriorated.
When learning a new assistance technique, have an experienced assistant help you before
attempting it alone.
ƽ WARNING
The back height, front caster position, seat-to-floor angle, position of the rear
wheels, correct anti-tipper as well as the end user's disability or end user's physical
condition and capabilities directly relate to the stability of the wheelchair. Any
change to one (1) or any combination of the eight (8) may cause the wheelchair to
decrease in stability. These adjustments MUST be performed by a qualified
technician.
DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick
them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees.
Many activities require the wheelchair user to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the
wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to normal balance, center of gravity,
and weight distribution of the wheelchair. To determine and establish your particular
safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several
combinations in the presence of a qualified healthcare professional before attempting
active use of the wheelchair.
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending forward,
it is important to use the front casters as a tool to maintain stability and balance.