Australian standard for electrically powered wheelchairs

Standards Australia has released a revision of AS/NZS 3695.2:2013 Wheelchairs Part 2: Requirements and test methods for electrically powered wheelchairs (including mobile scooters).

“This standard is about advancing the safety and protection of wheelchairs users,” said Dr Bronwyn Evans, Chief Executive Officer, Standards Australia.

“Some of the most important new safety aspects include a test for the capability of the wheelchair to climb a specified maximum safe slope and ability to negotiate various degrees of ground unevenness,” said Dr Evans.

The standard covers electrically powered wheelchairs, including scooters, and manual wheelchairs with add-on power kits that do not exceed 15 km/h and are only intended to carry one person.

Dr Evans said requirements such as fatigue tests for parking brakes, at least one emergency stop device being fitted and clear warning signs for tyre pressure and brake usage, gives much greater peace of mind that a wheelchair meets minimum safety and reliability expectations.

“The standard will also bring greater clarity to manufacturers in regards to testing methods for wheelchairs, based on internationally agreed standards, and introduces classifications similar to those in Europe, such as suitability for indoor or outdoor use, and sets the requirements for a risk analysis,” said Dr Evans.

AS/NZS 3695.2:2013 Wheelchairs Part 2: Requirements and test methods for electrically powered wheelchairs (including mobile scooters) is available by visiting www.standards.org.au.