930547 Rev. C
V I . G e n e r a l W a r n i n g s
15
T. RAMPS AT HOME & WORK
Make sure ramps meet all Building Codes for your area.
1. For your safety, have a licensed contractor build or remodel ramp to meet all
standards.
2.
NOTE
– The proper design will vary, depending on such things as: the length and
height of the ramp; the need for an intermediate platform; landing size; doors,
and the direction of swing, and; whether the ramp includes a turn or angle.
At A Minimum:
1. Open sides of ramp must have side rails to prevent your chair from going over
the edge.
2. Slope must not be steeper than one inch in height for every one foot of slope
length.
3. Ramp surface must be even, and have a non-skid surface.
4. You may need to add a section at the top or bottom to avoid a lip or drop-off.
5. Ramp must be sturdy. Add bracing if needed, so ramp does not “bow” when you
ride on it.
U. WHEELCHAIR LIFTS
Wheelchair lifts are used in vans, buses, and buildings to help you move from
one level to another.
1. Always turn off all power to your chair when you are on a lift. If you fail to do
so, you may touch the handrim by accident and cause your chair to drive off
the platform. (Be aware that a “roll-stop” at the end of the platform may not
prevent this).
2. Make sure there is not a lip or drop-off at the top or bottom of the platform.
These may cause a fall or tip-over. When in doubt, have someone help you.
3. Always position the rider securely in the chair to help prevent falls while on a lift.
4. Avoid moving forward if a wheel is “hung up” on the lip of the ramp. Backup,
reposition the caster for a more direct approach. And slowly try again.