A survey of occupied wheelchairs to determine their overall dimensions and weight : 1999 survey. Prepared for the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions DETR, Mobility and Inclusion Unit.

At the 1999 Mobility Roadshow, photographs and the weight of 734 wheelchair users were taken. From the photographs, overall dimensions of people in their wheelchairs were calculated. The wheelchairs being used were classified into five groups and additional features such as whether the person was carrying a walking aid were also noted. The dimensions compare well with previous work, although the distribution of wheelchair types has changed quite considerably. The combined weight of wheelchair and user was found in most cases to be within the safe working load recommended for vehicle lifts. It is hoped the results will aid designers of wheelchair accessible transport and building planners. (A)