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8
GENERAL GUIDELINESPROCEDURE 1
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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. Invacare recognizes
and encourages each individual to try what works
best for him/her in overcoming architectural obstacles
WARNINGS
POWERED WHEELCHAIR ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE (EMI)
Because EM energy rapidly becomes more intense as one moves closer to the transmitting
antenna (source), the EM fields from hand-held radio wave sources (transceivers) are of spe-
cial concern. It is possible to unintentionally bring high levels of EM energy very close to the
powered wheelchair's control system while using these devices. This can affect powered wheel-
chair movement and braking. Therefore, the warnings listed are recommended to prevent
possible interference with the control system of the powered wheelchair.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from sources such as radio and TV stations, amateur
radio (HAM) transmitters, two-way radios, and cellular phones can affect powered wheel-
chairs and motorized scooters. Following the warnings listed below should reduce the
chance of unintended brake release or powered wheelchair movement which could
result in serious injury.
1) Do not operate hand-held transceivers (transmitters receivers), such as citizens band
(CB) radios, or turn ON personal communication devices, such as cellular phones,
while the powered wheelchair is turned ON;
2) Be aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations, and try to avoid coming
close to them;
3) If unintended movement or brake release occurs, turn the powered wheelchair OFF
as soon as it is safe;
4) Be aware that adding accessories or components, or modifying the powered wheel-
chair, may make it more susceptible to EMI (Note: There is no easy way to evaluate
their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair); and
5) Report all incidents of unintended movement or brake release to the powered wheel-
chair manufacturer, and note whether there is a source of EMI nearby.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1) 20 volts per meter (V/m) is a generally achievable and useful immunity level against
EMI (as of May 1994) (the higher the level, the greater the protection);
2) The immunity level of this product is unknown.
that they may encounter, however, ALL WARNINGS
and CAUTIONS given in this manual MUST be fol-
lowed. 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
WARNING
ALWAYS wear your seat positioning strap.
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 up-
right 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 fur-
ther than the length of the armrests.