In rainy weather, wheelchair ramps can become quite slick.
In rainy weather, wheelchair ramps can become quite slick. If you or a family member needs to use the ramp to move around the property, it is necessary to ensure that you take appropriate precautions in order to avoid any accidents when the ramp’s surface is weak. There are different ways in which you can significantly increase the safety of your ramp in wet weather:
Install Non-Slip Surfaces
You will find that there are a large number of non slip mats and strips specifically designed for outdoor use. These features can be affixed on aluminium and wood etc. You can secure them in place either with screws, nails or glue. These strips are excellent for longer ramps, however they do not offer protection over the entire width of the ramp. Care needs to be taken if someone is walking over the ramp in wet weather.
Non-Skid Treads
If you are getting a permanent wheelchair ramp installed, it might be a good idea to consider installing one which has non-skid tread plates. These specialized treads are made from textured metal with small holes at every raised point. This allows the water to slip through easily, keeping the entire surface dry. These treads also help add traction to the wheels of mobility equipment like wheelchairs.
Getting non-skid treads installed are one of the best ways to improve the safety levels of metal and wooden ramps. If you feel like you do not want to use treads across the entire surface of your ramp, you have the option to install strips of this material at equal intervals across the surface. This provides a non slip effect as well.
Paint on Products
These products generally have a silicone base that helps create a resilint, slip-resistent surface. It easy to apply this non-ski paint on the wheelchair ramp surface. The entire surface needs to be dried and cleaned before the application. It takes approximately 48 hours to dry out completely and cure well.
Silicone has moisture repellent properties, which means paint-on products shouldn’t be used on ramps that have a very steep incline. The incline can cause all the water to roll down and accumulate at the base of the ramp, creating a puddle. These products need to be applied on an annual basis in order to ensure that they perform well.
Spray-On Traction
This is another excellent option to keep your wheelchair ramp safe during wet weather. These products are very similar to the paints and have a similar effect. Spray on traction is generally made of epoxy resins that adhere easily to most surfaces. No elaborate preparation is required. All you have to do is clean the surface properly before application. It is important that this be carried out in warm and dry weather. The coating needs to be allowed to dry for a minimum of 24 hours before using the ramp. The epoxy resin material creates a textured slip-proof surface which improves the safety levels of the ramp not just for wheelchair users but for pedestrians during wet weather as well. This application would have to be reapplied two times each year or more depending on how heavy the traffic is.
The Best Disability Ramps
Keeping your disability ramp safe is a crucial step in maintaining the well-being of those using the structure. By using these antiskid products, wheelchair ramp safety during wet weather can easily be achieved.
If you want information about our disability ramps and the various options on offer, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Adapta. We provide a wide variety of ramp layouts and options. You can call 1800 232 782 or contact us through this form and one of our representatives will contact you shortly.
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