Ramp Assessing Part 2: What’s Best for the End User?

We all know that when assessing for a ramp you have to take the key measurements of the application for example the height of the step, but it’s also very important to consider the end user’s circumstances too to find a ramp that’s best for them, and will maximise their freedom within their budget.

The key factors to consider to help you achieve this are;

1. What mobility device is being used?

Always remember to consider what mobility device the end user will be using on the ramp.  For example, if the end user has a three wheel scooter, a full width ramp will be a much better solution than a pair of channel ramps.

2. What is the combined weight of the passenger, device and assistant?

Is this within the capacity of the ramp?

3. Is user independence required?

If independent access is required it is advised that you look at a gradient of 1:15 or 1:12, which means you will need a much longer ramp.  They may need handrails as well.

4. Who will be lifting and deploying the ramp?

Take into account the fact that the person lifting and deploying the ramp could be the end user, or an elderly carer who will no doubt have limits to the weight they are able to lift.  If the weight of the ramp is going to be an issue, it may be best to consider a modular installed ramp, or a pair of channel ramps, or a multi-folding ramp such as the NEW Aerolight-Lifestyle so that only half of the ramp needs to be lifted at a time.

5. Are there any alternative applications that can be solved within the budget or with a dual-purpose ramp?

Consider – could the same ramp that is used for access at the front door be used for getting into the car or out of the back door and into the garden?

6. Consider the future – will the end user’s mobility be improving or declining?

It’s important to take into account whether the end user’s mobility will ultimately improve or decline.  For example, you may be required to specify a ramp for someone who is currently in a wheelchair, but is hoped to progress to crutches in the future.  In this case, it would be best to specify a full-width ramp, as channel ramps won’t be suitable for use with crutches.

If you take into account all of these considerations, as well as collecting all the relevant location and environment information for the end user’s application, you will be well set up for providing excellent ramp assessments and selecting the best ramp for your client every time.  If you get a tricky application that you would like some assistance with, contact us and we’ll do our best to help!

Take a look at our blog on the location and environment information to collect when you’re assessing for a ramp here, and download our simple ramp assessment checklist here.

Next in the Wheelchair Ramp Assessing series:

Part 3: What gradient should I use?