Involved

Quantum is Q’Straint’s second product release this year, having previously launched a new range of retractors for wheelchair restraint systems in response to the growing weight of wheelchairs. The QRT 550E and QRT 350E are designed and tested to handle loads of up to 200kg and 150kg respectively. The new 5 Series systems are made for loads of up to 200kg, whilst the new 3 Series retractor has a capacity of 150kg. The QRT 550E retractor, utilises a double webbing loop and employs advanced material that features energy management techniques to achieve a 200kg weight certification. Prior to this product, the only other retractor system able to achieve this maximum weight rating used four retractors on the rear of a wheelchair, whereas only two 550Es are required.

Q’Straint’s new range of retractors for wheelchair restraint systems

Designing its products alongside developments in the industry it serves is important to Q’Straint. The business has close links with regulating bodies concerned with wheelchair restraints as well as mobility organisations. Andy said his company involves itself with its customers, regularly discussing directly with them what changes are needed.

Q’Straint provides various products for restraining wheelchairs, including this QRT Max restraint and L-Track flooring system

Recently, Andy said he has seen the expectations of people with mobility issues increase. Users of wheelchairs and mobility scooters, as well as other disabled people, expect not only public transport, but other areas of life, to be more accessible without needless fuss.

It is this growing expectation amongst wheelchair users that drives Q’Straint’s efforts. Andy and his team are confident they can meet any demand in making PSVs meet these expectations. He claims the company’s emphasis on being as customer focused as possible and its efforts towards breaking through boundaries and developing new products is what makes it one of the world leaders in supplying this kind of technology. Andy said, ‘We are all about doing something that will assist people, providing them with accessibility and keeping them safe. We are pushing technology forward to achieve this.’

All Q’Straint’s Sales Managers have the technical knowledge of using the retractors, restraints and other products. Their role is not just to sell the devices, but to act as partners with clients, ensuring they have all they need in terms of accessibility equipment. Andy said, ‘We see ourselves as more of a partner with our customers than a supplier.’

Q’Straint has made huge investments in research and development, one of the results of which is Quantum. Exploring new technology and new concepts is the ‘lifeblood’ of the company, according to Andy, it is ‘the future of the business’.

Last word

This focus on expanding Q’Straint’s products’ capabilities originates from the company’s founder, Jean Marc Girardin. He set the company up to improve wheelchair users’ lives, an endeavour that remains at the heart of the business to this day. As the company nears its 21st year in the UK and Europe, Andy said, ‘We’re living in a time where there is a greater expectation for the disabled to have an active life. Helping them achieve this is where our focus needs to be. It’s a very exciting time.’

By Chris Peat