There are many types and brands of wheelchair lifts. To start, there are “portable” lifts, “permanent” lifts, lifts attached to a vehicle, staircase lifts, and many others. Each lift has its own set of specifications and instructions for use. It’s important for anyone using or operating a wheelchair lift know how to properly use it so that accidents and mis-use can be prevented.

Each and every wheelchair lift will come with a list of “specifications” which may include information on the following: weight, height, width, length, capacity, platform size, lifting height, lifting time, warranty, operator’s instructions, and more. The list is provided so that the lift’s users and operators know exactly what type of lift they are using and how to use it safely. Lift specification lists are also helpful when trying to determine the specific lift to purchase for a particular use or location.

The importance of reading and understanding a lift’s specifications is essential. Using a wheelchair lift may seem easy, but in order for a person to ride on one in the safest possibly way, the operator must be familiar with it and know what it can handle.

Some of the items on a lift’s specification list may include:

A Detailed Description of the Lift

Most lifts are manufactured and designed to be used only by those in wheelchairs or those with disabilities that prevent them from climbing stairs. They are not meant for people not seated in a wheelchair or for anyone who simply “wants a ride.” Instructions on how to use the lift should be included with the lift and should be carefully read and understood by anyone using it. All public lifts must be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and must be placed in a stable location, properly installed or constructed, and be maintained and serviced on a regular basis.

Specific Characteristics of the Lift

A lift will come with a list specifying what it can handle and what its limits are. For example, it will usually be able to only carry one wheelchair (and person in the wheelchair) at a time. With most lifts, there is usually only space for one wheelchair, so this specification is a rule that is fairly hard to break. The lift will also only be able to handle a certain number of pounds. The lift will also have a maximum speed that is posted on the specifications list.

Electrical Requirements

Obviously, it is important to abide by the electrical requirements of a wheelchair lift. If the lift’s instructions say that that a particular type of electrical circuit should be used, that type of circuit must be used. Usage of an incorrect circuit will jeopardize the reliability of the lift. Similarly, the lift must be used with proper safety devices such as a grounded electrical system and an emergency shut-off button.

Maintenance

It is extremely important that a wheelchair lift be maintained and kept in working order. A lift is a necessary piece of equipment and can seriously impede a person in a wheelchair’s ability to go somewhere if it is not operational. Wheelchair lifts come with information form the manufacturer that specify how often routine maintenance should take place.

Warranty

If a wheelchair lifts is maintained as the manufacturer recommends it be, it will likely remain under some sort of warranty for a number of years. The warranty should be clearly written and be as specific as possible.

Wheelchair lift specifications are written to help a person or an organization to purchase a lift for personal or public use. It’s important to read and understand the specifics of a lift before it is considered and purchased so that the lift’s user(s) can benefit from it in the best and most productive way.