Description / Abstract:
1. Scope--This SAE Recommended Practice applies to WTORS comprised of a
system or device for wheelchair tiedown and a system or device for
restraining the wheelchair-seated occupant. It specifies design
requirements, test methods, and performance requirements for WTORS,
requirements for manufacturer's instructions to installers and users,
and requirements for product marking and labeling. This document places
particular emphasis on design requirements, test procedures, and
performance requirements for the dynamic performance of WTORS in a
48-km/h, 20-g frontal impact. It also specifies test procedures and
performance requirements for webbing slippage at adjustment devices of
strap-type wheelchair tiedowns, and for partial but ineffective
engagement of wheelchair tiedowns, and tiedown components that could be
perceived to be effectively engaged. Appendix F includes additional
recommendations for WTORS that will enhance the design, performance,
installation, and use of WTORS, but which are not, at this time,
required for compliance with this document.
The contents of this document apply to WTORS used with forward-facing
wheelchair-seated children and adults, and apply to passengers and
drivers of personally licensed motor vehicles as well as to passengers
of motor vehicles used in public and school transportation. While much
of the focus of this document is on WTORS that use four-point
wheelchair tiedown systems, unless otherwise specified, the provisions
of this document are applicable to all types of WTORS, including those
that use docking-type wheelchair tiedowns.
While the primary focus of this document is a WTORS that is packaged by
the manufacturer as a complete system or kit, it is recognized that a
significant portion of the WTORS market consists of separate WTORS
components and subassemblies, such as anchorage track that is sold to
the bus manufacturer, or securement and restraint assemblies that are
sold to the transit provider. Manufacturers of such WTORS components
and subassemblies may certify their equipment as being in compliance
with this document provided that:
a. The subassemblies and components intended to be used together to
create a WTORS meet all the appropriate requirements of this document,
and
b. The separately sold components and subassemblies are provided with
instructions in accordance with 5.5, where the word "compatible" means
tested together to comply with this document.