Wheelchair lifts are important accessibility tools for the handicapped, the disabled, the injured and the elderly. Through these devices, wheelchair-users find better means to overcome vertical barriers in their house, in public buildings, and even in their car. However, we should be reminded that wheelchair lifts are not one hundred percent safe – not because of the product itself but because of faulty installation. The majority of the reported wheelchair-lift-related accidents are associated with improper installation. What does this tell us? It’s very simple: be careful in installing wheelchair lifts. How? By strictly following proper installation methods and procedures provided by the supplier.
In installing a wheelchair lift, several factors must be taken into consideration. First of these considerations is choosing the right wheelchair lift, of course. You have to determine the specific type of lift that is most appropriate for you (or for your loved one). There are custom-made wheelchair lifts for specific areas and functioning. For instance, wheelchair lifts for vans are different from wheelchair lifts for residences; and wheelchair lifts for porches are different from wheelchair lifts for stairs, so on and so forth.
Know which area of the house needs more mobility access so you’d be guided on the second basic consideration, choosing the right location. Once you have chosen the most appropriate wheelchair lift, now you have to decide where exactly do you intend to place it. Again, this depends on different factors. If you are going to install a vertical platform lift, you should be aware that it needs house remodeling and wall modifications (unlike a stair lift which is obviously installed on the staircase).
Different types of wheelchair lifts also have different procedures for installment. You should check the product package for a detailed installation guide. This procedure should be followed precisely and faithfully.
Perhaps, one of the widely used wheelchair lifts is the stair lift. Unlike the vertical lift, the inclined platform lift and van wheelchair lift, this lift is easier to install.
1. Lay the lower track on the staircase. Make sure that the track is laid down not on the railing side but on the wall to avoid inconvenience for other stair users.
2. Attach the brackets to the steps using the screws that come along with the packaged product. Usually, there are three to four brackets provided: one for the top of the stairs, another for the bottom, and one or two more for the middle.
3. Install the call box wiring. This comes with a wire that signals the device to come down when it is at the top of the stairs.
4. Lay the upper track on top of the lower track. The seat is installed between these tracks, so make sure that the seat will be able to fit the space between these tracks.
5. Install the chain, which moves the chair up and down the track, as a chain does to a bike.
6. Fit in the seat’s power cable between the tracks. Attach the chair using the screws (again provided by the supplier).
7. Plug the main power cable into the bottom of the track, and do the same thing to other end, but this time, plug it into the wall outlet. This step is done if the machine is electricity-powered. For a hydraulic wheelchair lift, you can check the product guide for a detailed procedure.
8. Have the user check the machine if its works smoothly and properly. During the trial, assist him until he gets comfortable.
In installing other types of lifts, you can always ask the manufacturer or check the Internet for reliable websites that offer proper installment instructions. Commercial wheelchair lifts, which usually are elevator lifts, need building restructuring. This means that installers must also seek assistance from architects or engineers. Installing a vehicle wheelchair lift, on the other hand, definitely needs professional help. Several modifications are done to the interior of the car to give space for the lift. Sometimes even, the floor height of the car is adjusted to easily board the wheelchair into the vehicle.
But there is a word of caution: only professionals are allowed to install wheelchair lifts. No one should feel confident about installing the lift on his own. I have provided you with a procedure to install a stair lift not because I want you to install it but because I want you to be vigilant when the installing team from your supplier does their work. Remember that most of wheelchair-lift-related accidents occur due to improper installation. And more often than not, these accidents happen to people who haughtily and stubbornly install their lifts without asking assistance from skilled professionals.
