Access ramps

Ramps are an obvious solution if you use a wheelchair or a mobility scooter and they can also make getting over thresholds easier.

For the larger person any variation on steps can be a physical challenge and a temporary or permanent ramp can be an ideal solution. Ramps can be used to get a wheelchair or scooter into the home, or in and out of a vehicle in an easy and trouble free manner. Portable ramps can be carried in a vehicle or on a mobility scooter and used as and when required.

Types of ramp

There are an incredible number and variety of ramps available. They range from large permanent and semi permanent ramps to much smaller fold-away and easy-to-store portable ramps. This means that there is a ramp for all situations and all eventualities. Ramps are increasingly playing a role in the armoury of aids used in bariatric care.

If you require a ramp to enable your mobility scooter to cross the threshold and get into your home, then there are ramps specially designed for this purpose. If you want a ramp that can be folded down to the size of a briefcase and then opened up in seconds when required, there are lightweight ramps that fit this requirement.

Ramps come specifically designed for - vehicular access, in roll up or telescopic constructions, and even made of fibreglass so that they are ultra light.

The load bearing capacity of all ramps is published by the manufacturers and, as most are expected to be used by wheelchairs and mobility scooters, they are designed to carry a significant weight. Many ramps now include a “manufacturers” classification that indicates if they are bariatric although, in real terms, it is the ramps maximum load bearing weight that is the true indication of its performance.

To find out more about the various ramp options that are available use the menu below. You will find sections covering vehicle ramps, roll-up ramps and a ramp calculator summary that enables you to work out the appropriate length to ramp height ratio for any situation (for both permanent and fixed ramps).