More Details

Considerations for Use
Features
* Seating options
* Modifying the wheelchairs standard seating.
* Building a new seating system.
* Using modular adjustable seating.
* Incorporating other standard cushion types on a board seat.
* Shapes and materials will differ depending on
* Shape required to accommodate the users posture.
* Strength required in the seating.
* Adjustment required.
* Ease of transfers.
* Pressure reduction needed.
* Other needs that may be for consideration.
* Customisation can include building the headrest, armrests, footrests, harness, lapbelt, seat, backrest, tray, postural supports, powered wheelchair controller position, wheel or castor position, and any other part of the wheelchair.
* Various covers are available including vinyl, sheepskin, dartex, towelling and other.

The following is a typical procedure for provision of a custom made seat and base
* The seating and other needs required are discussed with the user, manufacturer, therapist and other interested parties.
* Options to meet these needs are outlined which can be made at the factory and agreement made.
* The seating would be made at the factory using foams, woods, metals or other materials.
* The user would return to the factory for a fitting where they would sit in the seating without it being covered. Any alterations could then be made in the factory at a later date.
* If necessary, further fittings may be required at a later date.
* When happy with the seating, it would be covered and ready for provision.

Safety and Maintenance
Refer to the supplier and manufacturer manual for maintenance instructions and safety warnings.

For further information please see Assistive Technology Australia?s website www.at-aust.org or phone our Infoline 1300 452 679 to talk to a health professional. You can also visit our centre at Blacktown ? see Supplier details for address. Please note that Assistive Technology Australia?s purpose is to provide impartial information. We do not buy or sell assistive technology but provide supplier details.

Standards

Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information about standards also see
http://at-aust.org/home/assistive_technology/standards.html

TGA
Many of the items on the Assistive Technology Australia website are categorised as a Medical Device. Medical devices that are approved for use in Australia have been entered into a national database called the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), which is maintained by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). You can ask the supplier for the ARTG number for the device you wish to purchase and search the ARTG for the entry. To access information on the ARTG visit www.tga.gov.au

When buying a medical device it is advisable to only choose a medical device that is recommended by a healthcare professional and has been included on the ARTG.