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9
SAFETY/HANDLING OF SEATING
SYSTEMS/WHEELCHAIRS
Safety and Handling of the wheelchair requires the close
attention of the seating system/wheelchair user as well
as the assistant. This manual, as well as the owners
manual provided with the wheelchair, points out the most
common procedures and techniques involved in the safe
operation and maintenance of the seating system/wheel-
chair. 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 tech-
niques that are discussed on the following pages have
been used successfully by many.
Individual seating system/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 new seating system/
wheelchair users and assistants 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 seating
system/wheelchair, you must at all times maintain proper
balance. Your seating system/wheelchair has been de-
signed 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 seating system/wheel-
chair any further than the length of the armrests. Make
sure the casters are pointing in the forward position when-
ever you lean forward. This can be achieved by advanc-
ing the wheelchair 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 main-
tain stability and balance.
A Note to Wheelchair Assistants
When assistance to the seating system/wheelchair user
is required, remember to use good body mechanics. Keep
your back straight and bend your knees.
GENERAL GUIDELINESPROCEDURE 1
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Also, be aware of any detachable parts. These must
NEVER be used for hand-hold or lifting supports, as they
may be inadvertently released, resulting in possible injury
to the user and/or assistant(s).
When learning a new assistance technique, have an ex-
perienced assistant help you before attempting it alone.
Percentage of Weight Distribution
WARNING
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 owner to reach, bend
and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These move-
ments will cause a change to normal balance, center of
gravity, and weight distribution of the wheelchair. To deter-
mine and establish your particular safety limits, practice
bending, reaching and transferring activities in several com-
binations in the presence of a qualified health professional
BEFORE attempting active use of the wheelchair.
Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reach-
ing, leaning, bending or bending forward, it is important to
use the front casters as a tool to maintain stability and bal-
ance.