AnnaK Although I suspect that it will involve members of the public using and propelling them; it would help considerably if you should tell us the context of the wheelchair provision here. Frank Hallett

OK Anna - understood. I don't wish to put your employer off the use of the wheelchairs, but there are several things that I would suggest should be incorporated in order to ensure minimal problems. 1st - I'm sure that you understand that these wheelchairs have become "work equipment"! 2nd - Unless you wish to lose a considerable amount of money defending an unwinnable claim for damage caused by not properly maintaining them, you should ensure that you have:- Staff trained to visually inspect all wheelchairs - both on opening and on receiving a wheelchair back from the public; and A system for taking out of use of any wheelchair that appears to be less than satisfactory; and A planned maintenance schedule that is appropriate for the degree of use [I presume that you'll have that data]; and A means of hygienically cleaning those parts of the wheelchair that could transfer Bio-Hazards from the last user to the Staff and to the next user; and Suitable records of all of the above. Also, ensure that those users who cannot walk very far, or fast, and are therefore more likely to remain with the wheelchair in an evacuation, are provided with permanently legible information on the best routes for wheelchair evacuation [attached to the wheelchair and visible to the person pushing would probably be sufficient]. Hope that helps - PM me if you require additional info. Frank Hallett