Synthesis of Securement Device Options and Strategies

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) requires that public transit vehicles be equipped with securement location(s) and device(s) that are able to secure "common wheelchairs," as defined in the ADA regulations.The definition and size specifications related to a "common wheelchair" cover many types of mobility devices, from the traditional wheelchair to three-and four-wheeled motorized "scooters."However, many vehicle operators do not have experience securing non-traditional mobility devices and some very popular types of mobility devices, such as motorized scooters, are extremely difficult to secure using ADA-compliant securement equipment.This report outlines the scope and magnitude of the securement issues facing transit agencies and paratransit providers in the United States by presenting the results of a securement device options and strategies survey that was distributed to transit and paratransit providers throughout Florida and the United States.The results of the survey provide insight into how transit and paratransit providers are dealing with securement issues and the strategies adopted to overcome challenges presented by the securement of mobility aid devices on public transportation vehicles.In addition, an inventory of securement device equipment available in the United States is provided with detailed information about equipment specifications, costs, compatibility with mobility devices, and the types of training offered by securement device manufacturers and vendors.Finally, recommendations are offered to assist in the resolution of the existing disjuncture related to ADA wheelchair securement requirements and difficulties encountered in the securement of common and non-common wheelchairs on public transportation vehicles, which include seeking FTA clarification of inconsistent securement definitions and policies and establishing mandatory standards for mobility devices that will be used as seats on moving public transportation vehicles.17.