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Onto a kerb
Off a kerb
Kerbs - Alternative method
Escalators
Stairs
36
This method assumes the assistant is always behind the wheelchair and
creates the greatest safety for the user.
The following advice is for the assistant:
Illustration 1
Adjust the anti-tip devices upwards. Ensure that the user's feet rest
securely on the foot rests and cannot slide off before you lean the
wheelchair backwards and push it forwards against the kerb.
Illustration 2
Lower the front part of the wheelchair onto the pavement and stand
as close to the wheelchair as possible before you lift up the whole
wheelchair.
Illustration 3
Lean forward and lift/roll the wheelchair over the kerb.
Illustration 4
Lower the wheelchair onto the pavement so that the weight is divided
across all four wheels. Ensure that the wheelchair does not roll back-
wards.
Follow the procedure above but in reverse order (steps 4, 3, 2 and 1)
to move off the kerb.
This method is generally used by experienced assistants who are
stronger than average. The method can also be used when the kerb or
step is low and only constitutes a minimal obstacle.
The assistant steps backwards onto the pavement and pulls the wheel-
chair up onto the pavement. It is important for the assistant to use
their body correctly to prevent injury. Tip the wheelchair backwards
and roll the chair over the kerb onto the pavement. Take particular
care if the kerb is wet or slippery.
Do not use escalators with a wheelchair. Find out if there is a lift
nearby.
We advise you to avoid going up/down stairs in your wheelchair where
possible and instead choose an alternative route.
We recommend that you receive help from two assistants to get up
and down stairs. One assistant goes in front and holds the wheelchair's
frame and the other goes behind and holds the push handles. Fold the
anti-tip devices upwards. Balance the wheelchair on the drive wheels
until the balance point is found. Then roll the chair step by step down
the stairs by letting the wheelchair roll over the edge of each step. It is
important that assistants remember not to hold detachable arm rests
or leg rests. Assistants much also remember to lift correctly, using
their legs and keeping their back as straight as possible.
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