wide Ramp
One of the first things to do when looking is to examine used wheelchair ramps to make sure they aren't rotting or rusting away. Underneath and other places that may not be as obvious are included. Used ramps for wheelchairs if made from wood or metal will eventually have rotting and rusting problems. You don't want to be stuck with a decaying ramp that is unsafe to use.
Not all ramps are designed to hold the same amount of weight. If you buy a used ramp, especially from a private owner, make sure the ramp has documentation that verifies how much weight it can hold or that you can find out otherwise. This may be especially important if you're looking at used folding ramps or portable Wide Ramps. Again, this precaution prevents injuries. Not to mention, it saves you from wasting money on a ramp you find out you can't use.
Another thing to consider, especially with wood ramps, is if it's approved for outdoor use and has been sealed properly. As you probably already know, sealing makes wood weather-resistant and prevents decay for years in some cases. As a result, rain, snow, and sun exposure cause the wood to rot and fall apart, making it extremely unsafe to stand on. Prevent major accidents by putting this requirement at the top of your used wheelchair ramps list.
You want to be careful of who you buy used wheelchair ramps from. Choosing wheelchair accessory companies as a starting point might be a good idea. Some of these businesses also sell pre-owned accessories and they've been tested and certified so you know that they're safe to use and meet with current standards. If you do meet with private sellers, keep in mind the above problems and features to be on the lookout for. Test the ramp out before buying.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifies how wide ramps should be the maximum slope and rise, how wide landings should be, and how high handrails are placed. Is the ramp compliant with these requirements (available online)? Try to find another used wide Ramp if you cannot find one here.
In summary, check the ramp in question for rot or rust, find out its max weight capacity, find out if it's treated for outdoor use, buy from a trusted source, and evaluate it against ADA standards for wheelchair ramps. All of this will go a long way to ensuring you find used wheelchair ramps that are safe for your loved one.
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