Why Use a Wheelchair Positioning Harness and a Seat Belt?

If you need to load a wheelchair and its occupant into a vehicle, then you have to ensure that both the chair and the person have adequate safety restraints. For a start, you should tie or lock the wheelchair down so that it can't move. Plus, the chair's occupant needs a restraint system that keeps them safe while you're driving generally but especially in the event you have an accident.

While you may have decided already which wheelchair restraint system to use, you may not be sure how best to secure the user themselves. There are different options here and it can be confusing to choose the right set-up.

For example, when you look at occupant restraints, you may have come across positioning harnesses and specialist seat belts. Both options appear to do the same kind of job. However, they both serve a specific purpose. What do these restraints do and why might you need both?

What's the Difference Between a Positioning Harness and a Seat Belt?

A positioning harness helps the person in the wheelchair to sit in the correct position. Some wheelchair users don't have control over parts or all of their upper bodies; restraints can hold them in place so that they sit comfortably and safely in their chair. Typically, these restraints hold the person in their wheelchair safely and securely. They attach to the frame of the chair itself.

A wheelchair seat belt restraint doesn't give this kind of support. It more closely resembles a standard seat belt. This belt attaches to the interior of the vehicle, stretches across the lap or body and fastens into a stand-alone locking mechanism. It works independently of the wheelchair.

Why Use Both Restraints?

While some wheelchair users can sit and stay upright in their chairs, others can't. In this instance, they may need the help of both positioning and safety restraints.

For example, a positioning harness ensures that the person sits in a safe upright position while you're driving. They won't slip out of position in the seat. If this is likely to happen, then a seat belt alone may not be enough to keep them safe since they could slip under it.

However, a positioning harness isn't a seat belt. It is designed to keep someone in their wheelchair. If the chair moves, say if you have an accident, then the person goes with it. So, it's important to remember that a wheelchair seat belt is vital here. A seat belt restrains the person, not the chair, so they stay protected even if something goes wrong.

To find out more, ask wheelchair restraints suppliers for advice.