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Safely Transportable Wheelchairs - The WC-19 Standard
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Many wheelchairs in use today are not safe for use in a motor vehicle.  To address this problem the Rehabilitation Engineeriung Research Center has developed the WC-19 standard for transportatable wheelchairs. 

WC 19 is a voluntary industry standard for designing and manufacturing a wheelchair that will be used as a seat in a motor vehicle. A WC19 wheelchair has:

  • At least four permanently labeled securement points that can withstand the forces of a 30 mph, 20 g impact.
  • Specific securement point geometry that will accept a securement strap end fitting hook.
  • Has clear path of travel for allowing proper placement of vehicle mounted occupant safety restraints next to the body,
  • Anchor points for an optional wheelchair anchored pelvic safety belt, that is designed to withstand a 30 mph, 20 g impact, and,
  • A standard interface on the pelvic belt to connect to a vehicle-anchored shoulder belt.

All wheelchairs transported on Saint Paul Public Schools routes should meet the WC-19 Standard.  Information on the Standard is available from the following links.


 The WC19 Information Resource:Crash-tested Wheelchairs & Seating Systems   Overall information on the WC-19 Transportable Wheelchair Standard
 Parent/User Information on WC-19 Compliant Wheelchairs   Detailed information on WC-19, including the backsground on the Standard, a brochure outlining WC-19, listying on copmpliant wheelchairs, and other important information.