|
BJTR Product Focus - The Etac Swift and Clean (cont)
'CLEAN'
'Clean' is a wheeled sanichair and shower chair of innovative
and award-winning design. The 4.3 metre tubular steel frame
is made in one piece and thus there are no welded joint areas,
which encourage bacteria growth. Onto the frame precision
moulded 'aqua-dynamic' parts are joined to within 1mm, thus
further reducing areas for bacteria growth. Other parts are
entirely non-metallic, including the wheels and the screws.
The large wheels help Clean to move with minimum effort over
uneven surfaces, and the large pram handle push bar makes
manoeuvring around difficult spaces easier, and allows precision
fitting over a toilet.
The one-piece bucket shaped footplate has a unique user-friendly
design. Whilst the curved base provides comfort and good drainage,
the bucket shaped sides prevent heels from contact with the
castors. On the lower setting the chair has good stability
when attempts are made to stand on the footplate. It is removable
but this should not be necessary, as it can be unhooked with
one foot from either of its two height settings, and slid
neatly underneath the chair, utilising the frame supports.
Here it helps to provide a supportive barrier to prevent further
flexion at the knee, and keep the feet in a functional position
for transfers. The seat, back and arms have a 'grain affect',
providing an anti-slip surface even when wet, and contrast
to the otherwise smoothness of the polypropylene. The armrests
are quite narrow at 4.75cm each, to keep the overall width
to a 52mm, whilst not reducing the seat width of 43.5cm. They
also have ergonomically designed ends, which provide a good
resting-place for the hands and tactile emphasis to assist
transfers, and added orientation to the position of the seat.
These can be unlocked and either folded back or removed for
side transfers. The seat itself has three different cushion
types available. The 'Seat Pad' provides basic comfort and
is warm and prevents slipping. It clips onto the seat utilising
the drainage holes. The second the 'Cushion Form ', aims to
provide more anatomical support and better comfort. There
is also a specially designed Ro-Ho cushion where open sores
are present.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY FEATURES
The locking tabs for the armrests and the foot brake locks
are coloured a distinctive orange and can be seen for some
distance away. The seat, and backrest covers are in a dark
green colour. Thus they stand out from the rest of the chair,
for those with visual impairment and/or perceptual difficulties.
A lap strap and restraining bar are available, with the latter
fitting between the two armrests. However, close scrutiny
of any policies or guidelines on restraint that might apply
is recommended. The chair has good brakes, which lock the
wheels very solidly.
|
