I I I . E M I / R F I
Are all powered wheelchairs susceptible to EMI/RFI?
Each make and model of chair differs in its ability to resist electromagnetic interference. That is, each has a particular level of “immunity” to interference, measured in volts per meter (V/m). A higher immunity level offers greater protection. In other words, a powered wheelchair with a high immunity level is less likely to be affected by a strong radio source than one with a low immunity level.
What is the FDA doing about the problem?
The FDA has written powered wheelchair manufacturers and requested that they test their new products to be sure that they provide a reasonable degree of immunity against EMI/RFI. The letter states that powered wheelchairs should have an immunity of at least 20 V/m. This provides a reasonable degree of protection against the common sources of EMI/RFI.
The FDA has also requested that these manufacturers clearly label their products with the immunity level, or state that the immunity level is not known. The labeling and informational material supplied with the powered wheelchair must explain what the immunity level means, and the labeling or informational material must warn users about the possibility of EMI/RFI and how to avoid it. In addition, the FDA has recommended that manufacturers establish an educational program to inform powered wheelchair users and their caregivers about the problems associated with EMI/RFI, and the actions they can take to minimize the risk. The FDA requested that powered wheelchair manufacturers have these actions implemented by December 2, 1994.
What can I do to find out if my powered wheelchair is likely to be affected by EMI/RFI?
If you’ve had your powered wheelchair for a long time and haven’t experienced any unintended motion, it is not likely that you will have problems in the future. But it is always possible that problems could arise if you are close to a source of radio waves. Therefore, it is very important to be alert to this possibility. The Jazzy meets or exceeds an immunity level of at least 20 V/m.
What can I do to reduce the risk that my powered wheelchair could be affected by EMI/RFI? Here are some precautions you can take:
νDo not turn on or use
νBe aware of nearby transmitters, such as radio or TV stations and
νBe aware that adding accessories and/or components, or modifying the powered wheelchair, may make it more susceptible to interference from radio wave sources. There is no easy way to evaluate their effect on the overall immunity of the powered wheelchair.
What should I do if my powered wheelchair moves unexpectedly?
If unintended motion or brake release occurs, turn the powered wheelchair off as soon as it is safe to do so.
If my powered wheelchair moves unexpectedly, where should I report this?
Call Pride at
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