It is widely known that for disabled individuals who use wheelchairs, portable ramps can be a true blessing. They allow the elderly and handicapped the ease of accessibility which they have every right to. With many forms of ramps constructed of a variety of materials, the ramps which are portable are seemingly the most versatile, giving you more bang for your buck. However, there are some considerations to take into account when shopping around for the ideal portable ramp for you and your loved one’s needs.
When selecting a portable ramp, you should evaluate several factors such as the amount of weight in which it can bear while remaining stable. The durability of the materials utilised should be a top priority in the selection process as well. Some of the most common materials employed for the construction of portable ramps are steel, wood and aluminum. The material that you choose should depend largely on just how and where you intend to utilise your ramp.
If the ramp is for hospital or apartment living residents, it should be determined that all types of wheelchair specifications such as width measurements and weight capacities are met. These ramps should be well equipped to serve wheelchairs both big and small with adequate weight capacities considering the flow of traffic through such facilities.
With a vast number of manufacturers now offering a wide array of portable wheelchair ramps, they are finally focusing on the types of usage. You should consult with your local manufacturer before committing to purchasing portable ramps. Ensure that they are light weight and durable. This is essential for simplified carriage and long term use. After all, you want to gain the most from your investment.
In addition to these factors, you will need to distinguish the various types of wheelchairs that will be used on the ramp to determine the portable ramp which matches most ideally to your particular needs. Ramp angles can be a fundamental factor in portable ramp purchases. The ramp will need to achieve a safe and practical angle. To inquire the proper measurements for width and incline, try contacting your local disability organisation for the recommended guidelines.
You may also want to consider that power chair users and assisted manual wheelchair users may require a shorter ramp in order to cover a given rise like that of a van ramp. Keep in mind that safety decreases with the increase in the angle of portable ramps. Angles for a portable ramp that exceed 10 degrees should be avoided if possible. This is due to the steep angle causing a significant reduction in stability, traction and control for the disabled individual operating the wheelchair.
Another consideration for portable ramps is the width of the ramp. The widths and angles are critical when it comes to safety precautions. With a wider ramp compared to one’s wheelchair, it becomes substantially easier and safer for the disabled individual. Be sure to leave adequate room for steering when calculating the width and angle of all portable ramps for the best possible outcome.