Comparison of wheelchair securement systems designed for use in large accessible transit vehicles (LATVs)

ABSTRACT

Design challenges in wheelchair securement for fixed-route, large accessible transit vehicles (LATVs) often create difficulties for passengers who use wheelchairs and operational inefficiencies for public transit agencies. Recent innovations in wheelchair securement technology for LATVs may reduce these challenges. This study explored the usability of three commercially available wheelchair securement systems in a static laboratory environment: a four-point, forward-facing (4P-FF) securement system, a three-point, forward-facing (3P-FF) securement system, and a semi-automated, rear-facing (SA-RF) securement system. Three groups of mobility device users (manual wheelchair users, power wheelchair users, and scooter users) (n = 36) completed wheelchair securement tasks in a full-scale mock-up of an LATV. For the 19 participants who did not use the occupant restraint system (ORS), perceived usability and securement time were compared across the securement systems. Using multiple usability rating scales, most participants reported that each of the systems would be acceptable for regular use. However, the majority indicated an overall preference for the SA-RF, and most rated the SA-RF system as easier, faster, and requiring less assistance to use than the 4P-FF and 3P-FF systems. Alternatives to conventional 4P-FF wheelchair securement in LATVs may thus improve boarding efficiency and transit independence of passengers who use wheelchairs.

KEYWORDS:

• emerging trends
• mobility
• usability
• wheelchair transportation
• wheeled mobility aids
• wheelchair securement

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Edward Steinfeld, Director of the IDeA Center for his advice and guidance. The authors recognize the additional contributions of IDeA Center team members Jordana Maisel, Heamchand Subryan, and Don Nguyen. The authors also acknowledge Q’Straint for the donation of each of the three securement systems for installation on the bus simulator.

Disclosure statement

NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents of this paper do not necessarily represent the policy of NIDILRR, ACL, 755 HHS, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.

Notes

1 The ADA defines “wheelchair” as “a manually-operated or power-driven device designed primarily for use by an individual with a mobility disability for the main purpose of indoor, or of both indoor and outdoor locomotion” (U.S. Department of Justice, 2010), including manual wheelchairs, powered wheelchairs, and three- and four-wheeled scooters.

2 The occupant restraint system refers to a seat belt and shoulder harness (ADA, 1991a; Shaw & Gillispie, 2003).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research [90RE5011-02-03].