DB 2001(03) Guidance on the Safe Transportation of Wheelchairs

Executive Summary
This Device Bulletin has been prepared in consultation with interested parties to give guidance to health services and healthcare professionals involved in the provision of wheelchairs, seating and accessories. It will also be helpful to wheelchair users.

We look at the issues affecting wheelchair users, carers, prescribers, transport providers, and vehicle and equipment manufacturers/suppliers with reference to the following:

• Medical Devices Regulations 1994 (SI 1994 No 3017)
• Disability Discrimination Act 1995
• European Union Directives on vehicle construction
• International Standards for the impact testing of wheelchairs and their tie-down and occupant restraint systems (WTORS).

These issues cross existing service boundaries, which has hindered understanding and communication between those involved.

To facilitate the safe transportation of wheelchair users, equipment and service providers need to communicate effectively. Past communication has often been ineffective or non-existent, thereby increasing the risk to wheelchair users in vehicles.

The following groups have a significant role to play:

• wheelchair users
• carers, support staff and healthcare professionals
• manufacturers of
• • wheelchairs/accessories/seating
  • vehicles (including conversions)
  • WTORS
• service providers of
• • wheelchairs/seating
  • transport

This Bulletin aims to:

• provide sufficient information for health services and healthcare professionals to assist wheelchair users, prescribers and transport providers in making informed decisions
• enable users seated in wheelchairs to travel as safe as is practicable in public, local authority, private or voluntary sector vehicles
• provide guidance for the transportation of unoccupied wheelchairs.