. Wheelchair
ramps are important and frequently utilized
assets outside stores, restaurants and any other public
buildings. In every crossroads there is a special access
ramp to compensate for the height difference between
the walkway level and the road level. The access
ramps are also useful for people using rollators
as balance assisting devices. A wheelchair ramp
is an inclined plane installed in addition to or instead
of stairs. Ramps permit wheelchair
users, as well as people pushing strollers, carts,
or other wheeled objects, to more easily access a building.
Wheelchair ramps come in a number of varieties each intended
for a different purpose. There are permanent, semi-permanent
and portable wheelchair and
scooter ramps. Permanent
ramps are designed to be bolted or cemented in
place (usually for buildings or public access). Semi-permanent
ramps rest on top of the ground or cement pad and
are commonly used for the short term. Portable ramps
are lightweight, usually aluminium and
typically fold for ease of transport.
When in the need
for a portable ramp to keep you moving
or to transport your scooter or wheelchair
down from a truck or mini van, it is advisable to find as
much information as you can on the types of ramps available.
The wide variety of ramps on the market are ideal for negotiating
steps and curbs, getting you smoothly over any
transition in height, and also to load and unload your chair
from a vehicle.
To decide which style of ramp works best, you need to ask
several questions which could include:
- Will
your ramp be permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary?
- How steep
is the incline?
- How high?
- How
wide and heavy is your wheelchair or scooter?
- Do you
need to carry the ramp with you to use at your destination?
- What
is your budget?
- Who is
the ramp for?
- What
kind of weight are you expecting it will have to support?
- How much
room do you have, and what would be the ideal material
for your location?
Answering these
questions will assist in narrowing down the choices and
finding a portable access ramp that works
best for your needs. Normally portable access ramps
should have a minimum carrying capacity of at least
440 lbs or 200 kg, however ensure that the ramp you purchase
meets the minimum capacity and exceeds the weight of your
wheelchair plus your weight. Some ramps
are designed only for use in unoccupied wheelchairs. It
is prudent to check ramps for sharp edges or burrs as this
can damage the wheelchair tires, or injure caregivers.
Many inexpensive ramps can have a poor finish and these
should be avoided. The portable ramps should
offer a level end platform designed for easy transfer from
ramp to the ground. There should also be a simple to use
locking mechanism to prevent the ramp from moving when in
use. Check that the wheelchair ramps have edge protectors
to prevent the user from falling off the side. Note the
location of handles and locking mechanisms as this can make
a big difference in the ease of handling for caregivers.
Portable
aluminium access ramps or fibreglass access
ramps are your best option for convenience especially
when there is no need of having to make structural modifications.
Not only are they inexpensive and easy to carry, but some
models can also be secured for semi-permanent placement
if desired. They are typically secured by inserting a pin
through the pre-drilled holes and into the landing.
For more
help and information about
what to look for when buying a whelchair
or scooter ramp, call 01704
506509 now, or contact
us here. |
