What is this standard about?
BS 8603 aims to improve the safety of wheelchair seated passengers in road vehicles by clarifying roles and responsibilities. This is through the provision of a passport containing key information in an easily accessible, reliable and durable format. The passport is to be attached to a wheelchair where it is clearly visible to the vehicle operator.
Who is this standard for?
- Providers of wheelchairs and seating systems
- Manufacturers of wheelchairs
- Any wheelchair accessible transport service
- Local authorities
- Healthcare providers
- Users of wheelchairs, carers, drivers and assistants
- Wheelchair equipment prescribers, transport managers and commisioner
Why should you use this standard?
The code of practice lists over 40 things that should be included in the passport to ensure the safer transport of wheelchair users. It describes the design of the passport, provides an example template and includes an example of a risk assessment process and template.
The code of practice places the responsibility for producing the passport on the transport commissioner. This may be the wheelchair user, in conjunction with the transport operator. The transport operator and commissioner could be the same organization, for example a local council.
The prescriber is required to provide information on the prescription including instructions for the use of any postural support devices used in transport. The prescriber should also be able to demonstrate that the risks have been reduced as low as possible and that they have a record of a risk assessment.
The document also outlines the roles and responsibilities of all parties engaged in the provision of wheelchairs, seating systems and wheelchair accessible transport services.
These recommendations are intended to operate in conjunction with transport providers operating risk assessment procedures as part of a risk management process.