Stair lift is an important assistive aid that helps people with disabilities and senior people who are having difficulties using stairs in their homes. These devices have helped them go up and down their multi-level residences conveniently and safely, giving them a sense of self-sufficiency.
However, like any other mechanical device, stair lifts need to be well taken care of to ensure not only optimal performance but stair lift safety as well for users every time they use it.
Professional installation
Having your stair lifts professionally installed eliminates all the risks associated with the device malfunctioning because of wrongful installation. It might be tempting to do it yourself, especially if you have the tools and the basic skills to do it. But it’s best to leave the installation to trained mobility experts like Gilani Mobility who are well-versed in the different models and types of stair lifts and stair layouts.
Regular maintenance checks
To ensure your stairlift will continue to perform optimally, regular maintenance checks are necessary. The components such as the track, gears and electrical systems should be inspected thoroughly to identify and immediately address any potential issues. It’s also recommended that you read the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure you know how to troubleshoot or perform simple maintenance tasks.
Common maintenance tasks include:
- Lubricating moving parts
- Checking for loose screws and bolts
- Keeping the track clean and free of debris
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User training
Knowing how to operate the device is another important aspect of safety. The user must know how to properly use it and understand its features and limitations. The user must know how to:
Operate the controls
The user should be familiar with the control panel and know which buttons to press to start, stop, and park the stair lift.
Proceed during emergencies
In case of power outages or other emergencies, the user must know how to manually operate or activate emergency power backup if available. Aside from the stair lift, other home modification mobility products must also be in place such as a hand rail to assist in situations like this when the user must safely exit the lift during emergencies.
Adhere to restrictions
Stair lifts have specific weight limits and users must be aware of these limits and restrictions to prevent overloading the device.
Safety sensors and features
Modern stair lifts come equipped with safety sensors and features to enhance user protection. These features may include:
1. Obstruction sensors
Infrared sensors detect if there are any obstacles on the track, automatically stopping the operation of the stair lift to prevent collisions.
2. Seatbelt and restraint systems
Users should always wear the provided seatbelt or any restraint or harness systems to secure themselves during transit and avoid any untoward incidents from happening.
3. Swivel seats and locking mechanisms
Stair lifts often feature swivel seats that allow users to safely exit and enter the lift. This function must be locked securely in place during use.
4. Battery backups
Battery backups must be in place and fully charged in the event of a power outage. This will ensure the user is not stranded on the stairs.
Mindful use
Practicing mindful use of the device is also necessary not only to ensure your stair lift will still perform efficiently but also safely. These guidelines must be adhered to:
- Avoid distractions: The user must only be focused while operating the stair lift and avoid using mobile devices or other distractions.
- Keep hands and feet within the device: The user should keep their hands and feet within the designated safe area to avoid any injuries.
- Do not overload: Adhere to the manufacturer’s weight capacity limit to prevent straining the device.
- Follow proper seating: Users should sit back in the chair and feet properly planted on the footrest, maintaining a balanced and comfortable position during transit.
Conclusion
Prioritizing safety while using stair lifts is important to ensure an accident-free experience for individuals with mobility challenges. Following the above-mentioned guidelines, disabled individuals can enjoy the freedom and mobility of these assistive aid devices without any worries.
