Why we install Q-Straints in all of our Disability Vehicles

• July 05, 2017
• Category: Wheelchair Access Vehicle Modification

Whether you are using a wheelchair or not, I think we can all agree that safety is a major concern for most people when it comes to travelling on the road. But when you are travelling in a wheelchair - or have a passenger that is - peace of mind can only come with knowing that that both the wheelchair and the person travelling in it are both secure and comfortable.

If you’re not familiar with Q-straints, then this article will help you understand what they are and, more importantly, why we install them in all wheelchair vehicles.

All our Q-straints are installed and certified by an approved engineeer for your absolute peace of mind. Make sure if you're looking for a wheelchair access vehicle Q-straints have been installed for legal as well as safety reasons.

What is a Q-Straint for a wheelchair accessible vehicle

Q-Straint is a company that’s been manufacturing wheelchair vehicle securement solutions for 30 years - so they know what they’re doing. Their focus is squarely on creating the world’s safest and most effective safety systems for wheelchair passengers for both public and private disability vehicles, and they have customers all over the world.

In the 1970’s, a group of researchers and specialists at Queens University developed the world’s first fully integrated 4-point wheelchair passenger securement system. The result was Q-straint, first first to introduced to the world market in 1982. They remain dedicated to innovation and progressive wheelchair securement solutions today.

We personally trust Q-straint because we know that their long-lasting dedication to ensuring wheelchair passengers can travel safely and comfortably has changed lives and given many the peace of mind they need.

The 4-point Wheelchair Securement System

As we mentioned, the 4-point Q-straint system was introduced to the world market in the 1980’s. Since then they have continually worked to improve their solutions, so let’s have a look at what the 4-point system looks like today.

While there are four points, each component is designed and engineered to work as one cohesive system, ensuring optimum safety for your wheelchair passenger - and peace of mind for you.

How does it work?

Nobody like to imagine having a collision, but in the event that one does happen, the Q-straint isolates the force of the person from the force on their wheelchair. With four points strategically placed, the force of the wheelchair is directed to the floor of the vehicle. This means that the person stays safely and securely in their chair, and the chair itself takes a lot of the force of the collision.

What does the 4-point system look like?

Below is an image from Q-straint’s own website that shows us the 4-point securement system. Please note that there are different variations available with some features, but the general function remains the same.

A - The Wheelchair Restraints There are four wheelchair restraints securely attached to the floor of the vehicle at 4 points with anchors (more info below), and they can be manual or retractable. B - Occupant Securements A belt secures the wheelchair occupant over the shoulder and across the lap, securing the passenger within their chair. C - Floor Anchors The floor anchors that are secured to the wheelchair are available in track, pocket, or slide ’n click systems.

Why we use the Q-straint

We do what we do because we’re passionate about making sure people with a disability have the same opportunities as people who don’t, and that includes the opportunity to travel safely and comfortably.

The wheelchair vehicles that we provide are all manufactured for the sole purpose of making life in a wheelchair easier, and the world more accessible, but we want to go that extra step. We want you - our customers - to know that you are driving away in the safest and most effective disability vehicle that you can get, and that’s why we install the Q-straint.

If you’ve got experience with the Q-straint system, or would like to know more, leave a comment below or give us a call with any queries.