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SAFETY/HANDLING OF WHEELCHAIRS
SAFETY/HANDLING
“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 maneuver-
ing 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 ob-
stacles that they may encounter. Techniques in this
manual are a starting point for the new wheelchair
user and assistant with “safety” as the most impor-
tant consideration for all.
STABILITY AND BALANCE
To assure stability and proper operation of your
wheelchair, you must at all times maintain proper
balance. Your wheelchair has been designed to re-
main upright and stable during normal daily activi-
ties as long as you do not move beyond the center
of gravity.
Virtually all activities which involve movement in the
wheelchair have an effect on the center of gravity.
Invacare recommends using seat restraints for ad-
ditional safety while involved in activities that shift
your weight.
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.
The Invacare A-T wheelchair should be operated
by an assistant when the wheelchair is in any tilted
position.
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 wheelchair user is required, re-
member to use good body mechanics. Keep your back
straight and bend your knees whenever tipping the wheel-
chair or traversing curbs, or other impediments.
WARNING
DO NOT attempt to lift the wheelchair by any
removable (detachable) parts. Lifting by means
of any removable (detachable) parts of a wheel
chair may result in injury to the user or dam-
age to the wheelchair.
Also, be aware of detachable parts such as armrests
or legrests. These must NEVER be used for hand-
held 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
experienced assistant help you before attempting it
alone.
TIPPING ONTO THE REAR WHEELS
WARNING
DO NOT tip the wheelchair without assistance.
When tipping the wheelchair, an assistant should grasp
the back of the wheelchair on a non-removable (non-
detachable) part. Inform the wheelchair occupant be-
fore tipping the wheelchair and remind him/her to lean
back. Be sure the occupant’s feet and hands are clear
of all wheels.
TIPPING - CURBS:
After mastering the techniques of tipping the wheelchair,
use this procedure to tackle curbs, short stairs, etc.
METHOD 1 - WHEELCHAIR WITH STEP TUBES
Apply a continuous downward motion until the bal-
ance point is achieved and the front casters clear the
curb. At this point, the assistant will feel a difference in
the weight distribution.
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