Consider Portable Wheelchair Ramps With Rollers If You Need Easy Access
A portable wheelchair (handicap) ramp makes life that much easier for people with disabilities. Whether you choose to build one yourself or buy a new or used model, you need to consider all the basic requirements. Each ramp enables the user to manoeuvre independently and open/close doors.
Depending on your needs, there are two types of wheelchair ramps available:
Before making your purchase, you should try out a few ramps in-store until you find one that you're comfortable using. Be sure to take the following factors into consideration before choosing a ramp.
Weight Specifications
Make sure to check the weight specs of the ramp you want. Different ramps are made to hold different weights. Electric wheelchairs differ to manual ones, likewise occupied chairs are heavier than unoccupied ones. Don't make the mistake of buying a ramp only to find out later that it wasn't meant to hold an occupied wheelchair. If you are buying used wheelchair ramps be sure to inspect the ramp for any damage that could have weakened it.
Handrails
Not everybody can push themselves along a wheelchair ramp. Handrails enable wheelchair users to pull themselves up or rest if they become tired. Public ramps will need two sets of rails for children using wheelchairs who won't be able to reach the adult rails. Wheelchair ramp handrails should preferably be made from some sort of metal, since those made from wood pose a danger of causing splinters as you pull yourself along. Public ramps must have handrails, but if a ramp is for your sole use you may choose not to have them.
Edge Protection
To keep from falling off, wheelchair ramps must have a raised edge. Depending on the user, each ramp will require a different height edge protector, however a good-sized edge height is better than one that's too small.
Track Ramps
If you would like to use tracks for your sole purpose, by all means do. Public ramps, however, should not have tracks, as wheelchairs vary widely and not all wheelchairs will fit to the tracks.
Material
Usually made from aluminium, portable wheelchair ramps are occasionally made from materials like fibreglass as well. If you purchase a ramp made from other material, ensure that it's strong, corrosion resistant, lightweight and durable. If you plan to build a wheelchair ramp yourself you should carefully consider which material to use.
Connecting to a Vehicle
There are ramps available that can be permanently attached to the inside of a vehicle and folded outwards. Some others link to the rim of a van's sliding door when open. Whichever one you have, make sure the assembly point is totally stable and level with the inside of the vehicle.
Modular Ramps
A great modular ramp system is the EZ-ACCESS Modular Ramp. When you need more than a portable wheelchair ramp, the EZ-Access ramp is the perfect solution. Built for the light commercial and residential market; particular attention to appearance, ease of installation, and durability are key to EZ-Access’ design.
After you have taken into account all of these factors you should be able to make an informed decision on which ramp suits your needs the best. Portable wheelchair ramps offer a great solution to wheelchair bound people on the go in wheelchairs.
