WHEELCHAIR TIE DOWNS

Selecting the type of Q’Straintwheelchair tie downs is important to maintain the safety of the wheelchair occupant and other passengers in the vehicle at all times.  There is more than one method of achieving this. More commonly four restraints are positioned on each corner of the wheelchair and locked into the floor at angles and locations set out by the restraint manufacturer.

Wheelchairs come not only in a range of sizes but a variety of anchor points which are often not adjustable. This means it is important to position the wheelchair in the vehicle to ensure the wheelchair tie down points are located at the correct distances apart and at the correct angles.

There is a variety ofQ’Straintwheelchair tie downs available both in load rating and inthe way they are attached to the floor pockets. This will depend on the specific application and requirement you have.

To understand what wheelchair tie downs are needed, the following points need to be considered;

• Weight of the wheelchair
• Weight of the occupant
• How the occupant’s lap and sash belt is mounted
• Is there any other form of restraining device eg docking station
• Type of wheelchair/ scooter
• Position of occupant whilst in the wheelchair

Installing wheelchair tie downs in almost all cases requires reinforcing to the floor and any other associated panels for strength, which forms part of every wheelchair conversion that Vanpac performs.

Your vehicle’s wheelchair tie down system must meet an exacting standard (AS10542.1) when tested. Vanpac works with the industry’s benchmark, ‘Q’Straint’, who’s testing procedure, exceeds the Australian standards requirement.

Your safety is paramount.