Lomax Modular 8 & 9HM and Tall Modular 8 & 9TM User Manual Issue 2c Feb 2015

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1.0 Important information 1.1 Important symbols in this manual 1.2 Wheelchair Identification 1.3 Labels Fitted to the wheelchair 1.4 Rules and regulations 1.5 Modifications and alterations Please read this information carefully or have the complete contents of this user manual explained to you in detail. If there are any points you are not absolutely clear about ask your healthcare specialist * to clarify them, during any official handover, before attempting to use this equipment for the first time. This manual contains important hints and information on: • Safety • Operation • Care and maintenance The contents of this manual are intended to cover all the general points relating to your new wheelchair. As part of our ongoing product improvement and development programme, changes may take place at short notice. This wheelchair may have been prescribed specifically for you and may have features not detailed in this literature. In order to ensure you gain maximum benefit and full enjoyment from your wheelchair, arrangements may have been made to carry out an official handover shortly after delivery. Your healthcare specialist* will notify you of this in advance. If not please contact your Wheelchair Service. Prior to delivery, your wheelchair will have undergone a thorough pre-delivery inspection by our factory-trained staff. Before using your wheelchair, you should have received appropriate instruction from your healthcare advisor, therapist or rehabilitation engineer. The visiting healthcare specialist * will carry out a series of final safety checks. Account will be taken of your clinical requirements as well as your social and environmental needs, including all necessary adjustments to ensure optimum comfort. Neither Sunrise Medical (the equipment manufacturers) nor the distributor or prescribing Authority (NHS) will accept responsibility for damage or injury caused by misuse or noncompliance with instructions or advice set out in this manual. * Your Healthcare Specialist may be a Rehabilitation Engineer or Occupational Therapist or Wheelchair Service Personnel.

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1.1 Important symbols in this manual THIS SYMBOL WARNS YOU OF A RISK! This symbol is used to give a warning or caution that is related to the safe use of the wheelchair, follow the instructions to avoid personal injury or damage to the product.

This symbol indicates hints and suggestions, which should help make operating the wheelchair easier and point out any special functions.

This symbol indicates hints and suggestions that should not be carried out while operating the wheelchair.

This symbol indicates the use of different tools and other adjustments or service/maintenance may be required. It should only be carried out by suitably trained or competent persons.

1.2 Wheelchair Identification Each wheelchair carries a unique identification/serial number that is printed on the serial number label. This label is fitted on the left hand side of the wheelchair on the rear vertical or horizontal frame tube. See figure 1 on self propelling and figure 2 below for location on transit model. Fig 1 Label location

Fig 2 Label location

This label also carries the model code designation, which includes the wheelchair size and colour. In the event of any queries please have this information to hand if contacting Sunrise Medical.

Sunrise Medical Ltd High Street Wollaston West Midlands DY8 4PS Telephone :Telfax:-

01384 446622 01384 446644

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1.3 Labels Fitted to the wheelchair Label

Label meaning This label shows the position of tie down location points for wheelchair transport. (See chapter 6.3 on transportation)

This label shows an example of the maximum user’s weight for the wheelchair.

This label shows the model number, serial number, max weight and manufacturer details.

This label shows the canvas Flame retardency details, the label is fitted to the rear of the backrest canvas.

1.4 Rules and regulations The wheelchair is manufactured to meet the requirements of Medical Devices Directive 93/42/EEC, BS EN 12183 and ISO 7176-19 – Wheeled mobility devices for use in motor vehicles. • The wheelchair and occupant is capable of being transported in a vehicle using an approved Wheelchair Tie Down Restraint System (WTORS). • The Upholstery meets the requirements of ISO 7176-16 and the fire and furnishing regulations SI1324. Other materials wherever possible are ignition retardant. • Sunrise Medical declares under its sole responsibility that this product is in conformity with the requirements of directive 93/42/EEC amended by 2007/47/EEC.

1.5 Modifications and alterations Making any unauthorised modifications or using non-approved parts, may change the wheelchair structure and create an unsafe condition. Neither Sunrise Medical nor your wheelchair provider will accept responsibility for damage caused by misuse or non-compliance with instructions or advice set out in this manual. Users attempting to use the wheelchair beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations may put themselves at risk of serious injury or even death.

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2.0 Intended user 2.1 Intended user 2.2 Intended use

2.1 Intended user The Lomax Modular 8HM and Tall Modular 8TM are self propelling wheelchairs intended for use by persons with disabilities or difficulty in walking but who are capable of propelling themselves, up to a maximum weight of 160kg. The 8HM has a seat to ground height of 48cm (19”) and the 8TM with a seat to ground height of 56cm (22”) is suitable for taller persons. The Lomax Modular 9HM and Tall Modular 9TM are attendant push (transit) wheelchairs intended for use by persons with disabilities who are unable to propel themselves and require the assistance of an attendant or carer to push them in the wheelchair, up to a maximum weight of 160Kg (25 stone). Section 12 shows the wheelchair specification. •

•

• •

•

•

The maximum weight limit for the wheelchair includes both the user and the weight of any accessories such as trays, cushions headrests, oxygen bottles that may be fitted to the wheelchair. Such items may affect the stability of the wheelchair and it recommended that a risk assessment be carried out prior to their use. Users who intend to propel themselves should be aware of the physical demands of propelling themselves particularly with respect to their overall weight, and any accessories that may be fitted to the wheelchair, their intended route, the type of surface terrain they intend to travel on, slopes, and the overall distance to be travelled including any return journey, the prevailing weather conditions such as temperature both hot and cold, wind effect (wind chill effect) and precipitation (rain/sleet/snow). Journeys should be planned so that users do not exert themselves beyond their physical capabilities. Users should also be competent in controlling the wheelchair, taking into consideration any physical demands and visual demands such as recognition of different terrain surfaces, ability to avoid obstructions, pot holes, manhole covers and gratings, pedestrian and highway traffic, signs /obstructions and dangers e.g. when crossing roads and manoeuvring between parked cars or in heavily pedestrianised areas such as shopping centres and malls. Attendants and carers who are pushing occupants in their wheelchairs should be aware of the physical demands of pushing someone who may be significantly heavier than themselves and the effort required to control the wheelchair and occupant on different types of terrain surface, slopes and inclines. This wheelchair has been designed to be used at walking pace

Should the physical capabilities required to push the wheelchair be beyond the user, carer or attendant consult with your wheelchair provider. It is possible a powered wheelchair may be more appropriate for your needs. Should there be any changes in your condition or ability (including factors such as body weight) then seek advice from your wheelchair provider or healthcare professional for further advice and information.

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2.2 Intended use Your wheelchair is intended for use in the home, the office, public places and buildings and similar locations on pavements, pedestrian paths and firm surfaces. It is intended to assist with the mobility of the user on the seat and should not be used as a ladder or as a means of pulling or transporting items, or similar. Do not use the wheelchair on soft surfaces such as sand, deep snow, slush or mud as this may affect the stability. Care should be exercised when using the wheelchair on wet or slippy surfaces such as wet cobbles or icy pavements, as these may cause the wheels to slip or may cause carers/attendants controlling the wheelchair to slip.

Using your wheelchair during darkness or poorly lit areas When using your wheelchair during darkness or in poorly lit areas then consideration should be given to the use of high visibility markers or reflectors that can be fitted to the wheelchair or the use of high visibility/reflective clothing such as fluorescent waistcoats, belts or armbands, particularly in poorly lit areas or when crossing the road.

Maximum safe slope The maximum safe slope for this wheelchair is 6 degrees. (This represents a slope of approx 1 in 9) See further notes and guidance in section 5.5 on wheelchair stability Obstacle climbing

30 mm

Maximum safe slope

1 in 9 or 6º

Maximum User weight

160Kg (25 Stone)

Users, carers and attendants attempting to use the wheelchair beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations may put themselves at risk of serious injury or even death.

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3.0 Wheelchair features 3.1 Description of the wheelchair 3.2 Wheelchair weights

3.1 Description of the wheelchair The 8HM and the 8TM self-propelling folding wheelchairs are fitted with 61cm (24”) diameter wheels and the 9HM and 9TM are fitted with 31cm (12.5”) diameter wheels. The standard configuration for this wheelchair is shown in the Figures below which identifies the key components. The wheelchair can be used for transporting the occupant as a seat in a motor vehicle. It must be used with the appropriate wheelchair tie down restraints and occupant restraints. See chapter 6.0 on Transportation for further details. Instruction is also given for transporting the wheelchair when not occupied. Push handle

Models 8HM & 8TM

Armrest Backrest Footplate

Footrest

61cm (24”) diameter wheels

Front castor Brake Models 9HM & 9TM

Push handle

Armrest

Backrest

Footplate

31cm (12.5”) diameter wheels Footrest

Brake

Front castor

For details on the specification see chapter 12. Instructions on how to fold and un-fold the wheelchair are given in the chapter 4.3.

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3.2 Wheelchair weights The overall weight of your wheelchair, including armrests and footrests, in the standard configuration, is as follows: Self-Propelling 8HM & 8TM: - 21 to 22Kg Attendant Push 9HM & 9TM: - 18.5 to 19.5Kg (The larger the wheelchair the more mass it will have.) The following parts of the wheelchair are removable; Armrests, footrests, some types of backrest extensions, domed headrests, and quick release wheels if fitted. The weights of these parts are as follows: Armrest 0.9Kg each Footrest & footplate 1 Kg each Domed Headrest Extension (if fitted) 0.7Kg Backrest Extension (if fitted) 0.5Kg Quick Release wheels (if fitted) 2Kg each Other additional accessories will add further to the weight of the wheelchair. The removal of detachable parts that are supplied either as standard or optional requirements as proscribed or recommended by the user’s prescriber, healthcare professional or wheelchair dealer, other than for the purpose of storing or transporting the wheelchair is not recommended and may compromise the correct use of the wheelchair by the user and the provision of any beneficial effects from the complete equipment. Take precautions when using your wheelchair to avoid fire risks, such as avoiding smoking or parking against open fires or heat source. Remember also that direct heat such as sunlight will increase the temperature of parts on the wheelchair such as the frame and they may be hot to touch. Low temperatures such as frost will have the opposite effect and may make parts of the frame very cold to touch. Your wheelchair may be supplied with pneumatic tyres on the rear wheels. If these are punctured you should inform your wheelchair dealer or repair contractor or wheelchair service in order that they can be repaired correctly and that the wheel function can be checked after repair. Solid tyres are available as options. Additional equipment options are available for more details on these options see Chapter 8.0 on optional features.

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4.0 Wheelchair set-up for use 4.1 Footplate Angle and Height adjustment 4.2 Heel Loops 4.3 Folding and unfolding the wheelchair for use 4.4 Cushion 4.5 Armrests 4.6 Brakes Your wheelchair should be delivered already assembled. You should remove any packaging before use. If you have not used a wheelchair or are uncertain about any of the features of your wheelchair then please contact your healthcare professional or wheelchair dealer or your wheelchair service and ask for assistance. If you have been informed that you must receive specific instructions about your wheelchair before using it then it is important that you await this instruction for your own safety. This advice also applies to carers or attendants who are not familiar with the use of the wheelchair in order to ensure the safety of the occupant. Before using the wheelchair ensure that the following adjustments/set up have been carried out. It is recommended that any adjustments to your wheelchair, be carried out by suitably trained, or qualified personnel. The information on adjustments below is intended for Healthcare Specialists.

4.1 Footplate adjustment Both the height and the angle of the footplate are adjustable. It is recommended that the footplates should not be set lower than 63mm or 2 inches.

Height adjustment With the user sitting in the wheelchair, lower the footplate and ensure that it is in a comfortable position for their feet. The safest position is usually with thighs horizontal, and hips and knees at right angles. If the position is not comfortable the footplate can be adjusted as follows: Loosen the Bolt A with a spanner; slide the footplate stem up or down to the desired position to position the footplate at the correct height, and then re-tighten Bolt A securely after adjustment.

Bolt A

Angle adjustment The angle of the footplate can be adjusted by loosening nut B, adjusting the screw to move the footplate up or down and re-tighten nut B after adjustment. It is easier and safer to get into your wheelchair if you turn the footplates up and out of the way or take them off the wheelchair.

C B

To detach the footrest assembly: Pull the latch C towards the back of the wheelchair and the footrest will then swing outwards and lift off the pivot pins. To attach the footrest assembly: -

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8/9HM 8/9TM__________________________________________________________________ Locate the holes on the footrest assembly onto the pivot pins on the wheelchair. Swing the footrest inwards until the locking latch C engages A small spring “R” clip may be fitted to prevent the footrest from detaching when the wheelchair is lifted into a car boot.

4.2 Heel loops Heel loops may be fitted to the footplates. These should be turned to rear of the wheelchair when the footplates are in the down position

4.3 folding and unfolding the wheelchair for use Unfolding the backrest To put the backrest in the upright position, push the handles upwards and forwards and then slide the levers (A) downwards fully.

Folding the backrest The backrest can be folded to make storage of the wheelchair easier. To fold the backrest, stand behind the wheelchair, grip the two small levers (A) positioned on each side of the backrest (just above the armrests) and slide them upwards. Fold the backrest down.

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Unfolding the complete wheelchair 1. Take hold of one or both of the push handles and pull the backrest into the upright position. Make sure that it is locked in this position by sliding the levers down fully. Ensure both push handles are locked in position. 2. Turn the fingers towards the MIDDLE of the seat and push down on the side of the seat with the flat of the hand until the chair is completely open. Never put your fingers round the sides of the seat because they can get trapped between the seat and the frame. The wheelchair is fully open when the seat is taut and flat.

Folding the wheelchair for storage 1. Turn the heel loops, if fitted, to the front of the footplate and then flip up the footplates. 2. Grasp the middle of the seat fabric at both front and rear and give a sharp pull upwards. This will partially close the chair. 3. Push both sides together to fold the chair completely. Ensure that the seat is not trapped in the frame when fully folded. 4. If required, fold the backrest down by pulling up the levers and lowering the push handles as shown on the previous page.

4.4 Cushion If your wheelchair is supplied with a cushion this may be held in position by Velcro strips underneath the cushion, which attaches to corresponding Velcro strips on the topside of the seat. The cushion should be replaced after unfolding the wheelchair and removed before folding the wheelchair. Ensure the cushion is located in the centre of the seat.

Using a cushion raises the seated position and may reduce the stability of your wheelchair. Some wheelchairs may be fitted with options or accessories. These are described in the Section headed Options & Accessories. Some options and accessories may also affect stability. Your healthcare professional can provide guidance on the stability of your wheelchairs and should be consulted when cushions and accessories are being used.

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4.5 Armrests The armrests are detachable to enable sideways transfer or storage to reduce the weight of the wheelchair. If the armrests have been removed for storage or lifting the wheelchair, they should be replaced as follows: -

Replacing the armrest Put the armrest tubes into the armrest sockets. Press down on the armrest until it clicks into position.

Removing the armrests Turn the armrest lock lever A upwards and at the same time hold the armrest at the centre and lift it out of the sockets at the front and the rear.

4.6 Brakes The wheelchair brakes can be applied as follows: • Push the brake handle forward firmly. • Ensure both the brakes on both sides are applied.

Push brake on to operate

Push brake on to operate

Brake

Brake

The wheelchair brakes can be released as follows: • Pull the brake lever fully backwards to ensure that the brake bar is clear of the wheel. Ensure the brakes on both sides are released. • When releasing the brakes ensure the chair is stationary on a flat/level surface. • Always apply the brakes when getting into and out of the wheelchair. • Wheel brakes are not designed to slow the wheelchair down when it is moving. Wheel brakes hold the chair in place when it is at a complete stop.

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8/9HM 8/9TM__________________________________________________________________ It is recommended that any adjustments to your wheelchair brakes be made by suitably trained or qualified personnel.

Attendant operated hub brakes If fitted hub or drum brakes operate on certain type of self-propelling and transit type wheels. These allow the attendant to operate the brakes and control the brakes whilst moving e.g. uphill or downhill as well as being used as a parking brake when the wheelchair is stationary. To operate these brakes: Grip the lever handles at the rear of the backrest on the push handle and squeeze gently to operate the brakes. The handles have a locking mechanism which operates to lock the brake when it is squeezed to keep the brakes applied or have a thumb pin which when pushed inwards lock the brakes on. To release the brakes: Gently squeeze the handles and the flip the lock trigger off. Take care when releasing the brakes to ensure that the wheelchair is not going to go out of control by holding the push handles securely e.g. when on a slope. Squeeze the lever to operate the hub brakes

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5.0 Wheelchair operation 5.1 Getting into and out of a wheelchair independently 5.2 Sideways transfer 5.3 Seat belt 5.4 How to use your wheelchair 5.5 Wheelchair stability

5.1 Getting into a wheelchair independently • • • • •

The wheelchair should be pushed up against a wall or solid piece of furniture; The brakes should be on; The footplates should be hinged up; The user can then lower himself into the chair; The footplates should then be pushed down and the feet rested on them in front of the heel loops.

Getting out of a wheelchair independently • • •

The brakes should be on; The hinged footplates should be hinged up; With one hand on each armrest, the person should bend slightly forward to bring the body weight to the front of the seat, and with both feet firmly on the ground, one foot well back, push up into the upright position. When standing, do not stand on the footplates or the wheelchair will tip up.

5.2 Sideways transfer • • • •

•

The user should check that the brakes are on; The footplates should be hinged up or swung away and the feet placed firmly on the ground; The armrest on the transfer side must be removed, swung away or swung back; The user should bend slightly forward and, with one hand placed on the bed/chair/WC and the other hand on the opposite armrest, transfer across; A smooth, sliding board between wheelchair and bed allows the user to slide across.

TRANSFERRING CAUTION: Always engage the wheel brakes before transferring in or out of your wheelchair.

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5.3 Seat belt Before using your wheelchair ensure the seat belt is worn and correctly adjusted before use. The seat belt is fitted to the wheelchair as shown in the illustrations. The seat belt support loops are fitted to the backrest frame using the existing lower backrest screw fitted through the eyelet of the belt loop. It is important that the belt is routed around the back of the wheelchair. The buckle end can be fed between the armrest and backrest. Adjust the belt position so buckles are in the centre of the seat. Adjust seat belt to suit the user’s needs as follows: To increase the belt length: -

To reduce the belt length: -

Feed free belt through slide adjusters and male buckle to provide more belt length.

Feed free belt back through male buckle and slide adjusters.

Ensure belt is not looped at male buckle

When fastened check space between belt and user, when correctly adjusted it should be possible to insert the flat of the hand between the belt and user.

Generally the Lap Belt should be fixed so that the straps sit at an angle of approximately 45°, and when correctly adjusted should not allow user to slip down in the seat.

To fasten buckle: Firmly push male buckle into female buckle.

To release belt: Press exposed sides of male buckle and push towards centre whilst gently pulling apart.

If in doubt about the use and operation of the seat belt then ask your healthcare professional, wheelchair dealer, carer or attendant for assistance. Do not rely on the seat belt only when the wheelchair and occupant are transported in a vehicle, use the separate occupant lap and diagonal restraints provided in the vehicle.

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5.4 How to use your wheelchair Whenever using your wheelchair you should carry out the following checks before setting out: • Ensure that the rear tyres are inflated correctly if pneumatic tyres are fitted. The tyre pressure is 370Kpa (60psi/4.0Bar). If the tyres are not inflated correctly this may affect the brake function. • Ensure that the brakes are secure and are functioning correctly by applying the brake and ensuring that the brake bar makes contact with the tyre. • Check that the front castors swivel freely and the wheels rotate freely and the tyres are free from damage. • Check that the rear wheels are free from damage including any damaged, loose or bent spokes on self-propelling wheels. • Check that the seat and backrest are not damaged by cuts or tears or that there is no sign of excessive sagging. • Ensure that any removable parts have been refitted to the wheelchair • Check that any detachable parts such as armrest and footrests which when refitted are secured and will not detach when using the wheelchair.

Occupant control Occupant control (self-propelled) chairs only have hand rims fitted on the outside of the rear wheels. By gripping the hand rims and pushing or pulling round the hand rim, the wheelchair can be propelled either forward or backwards. By pulling one wheel backwards and one wheel forwards using the hand rims, the wheelchair can be turned around in a tight space. Check that there are no obstacles or people on the turning space before starting this procedure. Many pavements and roads slope towards the kerb and this may cause the wheelchair to veer to one side. To counteract this it may be necessary to steer the wheelchair in the opposite direction. Avoiding uneven or soft ground and utilising drop kerbs whenever possible may make the journey more comfortable. The tyre grip of the wheelchair is affected by the surface over which the wheelchair is pushed. Therefore, extra care should be taken when weather conditions cause wet or icy surfaces. • • • • • • •

Make sure that the brakes are always on when the chair is not being pushed. Make sure that both feet are safely on the footplates and that clothing is safely tucked in and cannot catch in the wheels. Use both hands on the push handles to control the chair. Look well ahead to avoid hazards (e.g. furniture, doors, etc.) Avoid steep and uneven surfaces because the chair may tip over. Avoid soft surfaces because the castors may get stuck. Try to achieve a smooth steady ride. DO NOT turn too quickly. DO NOT propel the wheelchair at speed in excess of normal walking pace.

DO NOT hang items such as bags or rucksacks on the back of the push handles, as this can overload the chair and affect the stability of the wheelchair - causing it to tip over. Doing a “wheelie” i.e. tilting the wheelchair backward to its balance point can be dangerous. Do not attempt this manoeuvre!!

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Attendant pushing Keep in contact with the person in the chair. If you stop to look in shop windows or talk to people; remember to turn the chair so that the person in the chair does not have to turn or lean. DO NOT exceed the occupant weight limit for your chair and do not carry more than one person. If you feel that your body weight may have changed then contact your healthcare specialist. • Ensure that all parts of the user’s body and clothing, including any rugs or blankets, are clear of the moving parts such as the wheels.

Getting up and down kerbs This should only be attempted when a carer or attendant are controlling the wheelchair. Carers/attendants should bear in mind that they will be supporting more of the user’s weight when the wheelchair is tipped rearwards and the heavier the user the more weight they will have to support. If there is any doubt that this cannot be supported then seek dropped kerbs or ramps and do not put the user or yourself at risk of injury. The wheelchair should never be tipped forwards as the occupant may fall out.

Getting up a kerb • •

• • •

• •

•

First method The wheelchair footplates (or, if longer, the user’s feet) should be taken to the edge of the kerb; The pusher should hold the wheelchair push handles firmly and tilt the chair back, use one foot on the tipping lever to assist and carefully tilt the wheelchair backwards The wheelchair should be brought forward until the back of the wheels touch the kerb; The front wheels should be lowered down on the path; With the push handles held firmly the attendant should lift and push the wheelchair forward. Second method The wheelchair should be turned around so that the back wheels are against the kerb; The attendant should hold the wheelchair push handles firmly and push down with one foot on the tipping lever, tipping the wheelchair backwards balancing it on the large wheels; Using his body weight, he should then pull the wheelchair off the kerb and up onto the pavement.

Getting down a kerb • •

• •

The wheelchair castors should be taken to the edge of the kerb. The attendant should hold the wheelchair push handles firmly and push down with one foot on the tipping lever, tipping the wheelchair backwards balancing it on the large wheels. The large wheels should be taken to the edge of the kerb. The wheelchair should be lowered slowly down the kerb on its back wheels before the castors are lowered gently down onto the ground. The wheelchair should never be tipped forwards as the occupant may fall out.

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Going down a steep slope The use of the wheelchair on slopes greater than the maximum recommended may put the user at risk. If such slopes are unavoidable then • •

•

It is safer for the attendant to take the wheelchair down backwards. The occupant may be able to help by controlling the wheels or the brakes. (Hub brakes if fitted are more suited for this purpose) The user weight will have a significant effect on controlling the wheelchair – the heavier the user the more difficult it will be to control the wheelchair.

5.5 Wheelchair stability Certain routines and movements may affect the stability of the wheelchair The following factors can affect the wheelchair stability: -

User body movement REACHING - BENDING FORWARD DO NOT lean your body forward out of the wheelchair further than the length of the armrests as this may affect your stability. DO NOT attempt to pick up objects from the floor or to reach out at switches by bending forward or reaching between your knees as this may affect your stability. DO NOT attempt to reach objects by sliding forward to the edge of the wheelchair seat as this may affect your stability.

Leaning forwards when going up slopes can improve the rearwards stability and leaning the upper body uphill when moving across a slope can improve sideways stability.

REACHING - BENDING BACKWARDS DO NOT reach back any further than your arm will extend without changing your sitting position as this may affect your stability. DO NOT lean over the top of the backrest as it will shift the centre of gravity, risking tipping over. DO NOT hang heavy loads or objects on the backrest. They may make the wheelchair unstable, especially on an incline.

Assistive devices such as grab sticks can be used to reduce the upper body movement. Contact your healthcare specialist for further details.

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Body weight proportions Upper torso weight and height, lower limb amputation, obesity, asymmetrical body positions (leaning to one side) and muscle spasms may affect stability.

Operating environment Hills, slopes, ramps, sloping pavements, dropped kerbs also affect stability, especially if contact is made with small obstacles on slopes or hitting obstacles. Sloping surfaces should never be attempted sideways. These can cause the user to slide forwards or fall forwards out of the wheelchair.

Accessories or other equipment Accessories generally affect the stability of the wheelchair. Seat cushions raise the centre of gravity and reduce the stability of the wheelchair in all directions, backrest cushions will move the centre of gravity forwards, which improves the rearwards stability but reduces forward stability. Elevating leg rests fitted onto the front of the wheelchair will reduce the forward stability of the wheelchair.

Anti tip levers These can be fitted to the rear of the wheelchair to restrict the amount of rearwards tipping that can occur.

Wheel position The wheels of both the self-propelling wheelchair and the attendant push wheelchair can be adjusted to a rearwards position to improve rearwards stability. This may affect the self-propelling ability because the wheels have been moved further from the arms and shoulders.

Foot propelling The recommended methods for propelling a wheelchair are: Self Propelling wheelchair • Place feet on footplates and use the hand rims on the wheels to move the wheelchair. Attendant push/transit wheelchairs • Place feet on footplates and allow user or attendant to push the wheelchair. Propelling the wheelchair by using the feet is not recommended as your feet may encounter obstacles on the ground and the back of your legs may contact the cross braces underneath the seat. This may also affect the stability of the wheelchair. If you or your carer/attendant require further advice about stability and its effects then ask your healthcare professional, wheelchair dealer, or wheelchair service for further information.

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6.0 Transporting your wheelchair. 6.1 Lifting a wheelchair into the boot of a car 6.2 Storage in a plane 6.3 Transportability If the wheelchair is to be transported unoccupied, it may be stored as luggage whilst you are travelling in a vehicle or a plane. The wheelchair may be folded to reduce the space of the wheelchair. Ensure that the wheelchair is properly secured to prevent it moving during transit.

6.1 Lifting a wheelchair into the boot of a car Where possible ask for assistance • •

•

•

•

It is recommended that any detachable parts are removed before lifting the wheelchair The folded wheelchair (with armrests and footrests detached, if applicable) should be placed close to and parallel with the car boot. The person should grip convenient fixed parts of the wheelchair, one hand well forward and the other well back. Keeping their back straight the person should bend hips and knees, straighten their legs and lift up the chair (vertically) and balance it on the edge of the boot. With the weight taken by the wheels resting on the edge of the boot, the chair should be tilted towards the person; when nearly horizontal, it can be slid into the boot.

6.2 Storage in a plane • •

Ensure that any detachable parts are secured with the wheelchair or separately so they do not get lost during loading and un-loading. Inform the airline you a travelling with and follow their instructions with respect to transfer and loading of the wheelchair from one location to another.

When the wheelchair is removed from storage or the luggage area • •

Check that the wheelchair has not been damaged during the transportation for example by other unsecured luggage or objects falling onto the wheelchair or by impact damage. Ensure that any detachable parts removed are replaced when the wheelchair is put back into use.

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