Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) Securement Guide
Reminders for safe securement of mobility devices.
Scooters & Tricky Mobility Devices
Here are a few reference images & tips to assist with troubleshooting scooter securements.
- Blue straps: In the trickiest of securements, blue straps will always be your best friend. If they are not already in the WAV securement space in the back of the van, please check the blue equipment bag inside the vehicle.
- Blue straps: Always secure to the FRAME of the mobility device, do not secure to any device attachments as it can ‘break off’ with enough force.
Basic Reminders
Here are a few reference images & securement reminders.
- Frame: Always secure to the FRAME of the mobility device, do not secure to any of the attachments as they can ‘break off’ easily with enough force.
- Slack: Either crank the slack away with the handheld knob or if using automatic retracting securement devices, unlock the wheels and rock the chair back and forth to remove additional slack. Under the ADA, no more than 2” in any direction is permitted.
- Lap belt: Lap belts should go across the hip, make certain not to position the lap belt over the abdominal area. Pull the loose ends of the lap belt to provide firm and comfortable tension.
Passenger Securement
Lap Belt
The lap belt must be worn low and tight across the front of the occupant’s pelvic area with the junction between the lap and shoulder belt located near the wearer’s hip.
In the event of a sudden stop, this can assist in preventing the occupant from sliding out of the wheelchair under the belt.
Shoulder belts:
Place the shoulder belt across the collarbone and diagonally across the occupant’s chest.
Connect to lap belt with appropriate attachment.
Ensure a snug fit by pulling on the adjusters to provide a firm, but comfortable fit.
