Buying Guide - Wheelchair Chest Harness

The wheelchair chest harness helps to ensure proper positioning of the upper trunk while in a wheelchair. The wheelchair harness can be used to help someone sit comfortably for extended periods of time and allows them to use their arms, hands and legs to the maximum extent possible. There are many options available, depending on the patient's budget, body type and wheelchair type. To provide complete wheelchair positioning, Wheelchair Male Chest Harness can be used with a lap belt (seat belt), or leg strap.

This page will provide information about how to use and maintain your wheelchair chest harness safely. It also includes information on how you can choose the best wheelchair chest harness and tips for installing a wheelchair harness.

Safety First

Safety is the first consideration when positioning a wheelchair. A wheelchair safety harness, also known as a wheelchair chest harness, can be used to promote safety and comfort through proper positioning. After determining that a Wheelchair Chest Strap is beneficial, you should consider these safety tips:

The chest harness should be used in conjunction with a lap or seat belt that is securely fastened at all time. The positioning strategy should include a chest harness.

Make sure you get the right size. The wrong size can lead to many dangerous situations, including strangulation (if the user is sliding down forcing the harness upward toward the neck), asphyxiation(can occur when the chest harness is too tight, preventing normal respiration), and broken bones (can happen if it is too large and the user falls out of it). Our chest harnesses include a sizing guide and the actual dimensions of the harness. These guides should be used before you purchase.

It is crucial to do the right installation. You should not attempt to install a chest harness if you don't have the necessary skills. A poorly installed harness could pose the same dangers as those mentioned above. It is a good idea to dry-fit the harness with the user before installing it.

A wheelchair chest harness or any other positioning device should not be used as an automobile restraint. The wheelchair must be secured with an approved automotive restraint, even if it has a mount in the vehicle.

Wheelchair Chest Harness Design

The wheelchair harness is generally composed of a central section that rests against the user's upper body and is attached to the wheelchair using four straps. You can have a single-piece butterfly design (commonly known as wheelchair butterfly chest harnesses) or multiple padded straps with a connecting strap between them. The straps are typically nylon webbing and are padded in the center. The straps can be adjusted for a perfect fit and quick release buckles make it easy to get in and out. Grommets can be found at the ends of the straps that are attached to the wheelchair. You might also see attachment hardware. Below are some of the most notable features found on certain models:

• You can use pinch buckles
• Mounted on top of the fabric to reduce irritation
• Harness material can include darlexx, neoprene or foam-covered material
• Straps can be made of nylon webbing (think backpack), and some have finger pulls.
• You may also have other mounting options, such as a 3-bar clip

Things to Consider Before You Buy a Wheelchair Chest Harness

If the wheelchair user's upper trunk or upper torso cannot stay up, a wheelchair chest harness may be an option. The wheelchair chest harness is designed to support the user's upper body in an upright position.

What do the doctor and physical therapist have to say? They often have a better idea of whether a chest harness is necessary for correct positioning.

A wheelchair positioning belt, lap belt or seat belt is an option if the person in need can sit straight but their lower body is sliding out of under them. You will need a wheelchair seat that is compatible with a chest harness.

Many manual and powered wheelchairs that have seat canes (vertical bars on the top with handle grips) are able to accept both a harness and hardback seats. Installation often requires drilling. If you don't have the right tools, hire someone to do it.

Wheelchair Chest Harness Install Tips

Before drilling any holes, have the user place their chest harness in a chair. Then dry-fit it and check for mounting points. If the holes are not in the correct place, you can use them. Remember that harnesses should not ride too high on the chest or be too tight when being used.

After the wheelchair chest harness has been installed, the user can return to their chair and attach the harness with the pinch buckles. Adjusting the straps to ensure a perfect fit may be necessary, which can take some time.

If the end user cannot communicate comfort, slide your hand between their body and the central section of the harness. The material will stretch slightly.

Wheelchair Chest Harness care

To ensure safety, it is essential to maintain the chest harness. Here are some guidelines to care for your wheelchair's chest harness.

• Before you use the straps, make sure to inspect them for fraying or wear.
• Check the seams where the straps attach to the middle section. Make sure they are secure.
• The buckles must be securely pressed in place, and the adjustment straps shouldn't be loose.
• Verify that the screws are securely fastened by looking at the mounting points.
• Wash the wheelchair harness with soap and water, and dry it on a line.

Make sure that all stitching, buckles and grommets remain secure when you reattach the harness to your wheelchair.