Recommendations on Standards for the Design of Medical Diagnostic Equipment for Adults with Disabilities, Advisory Committee Final Report

5.1.4 Transfer Surface Height Measurement for M301 and M302

The Committee recommends capturing the transfer surface height at the highest point of the seat in an uncompressed state, inclusive of bolsters.

Rationale for final recommendation

Having an accessible transfer surface height is critical to facilitate independent patient transfers to equipment used by patients both in a supine, side-lying, or prone and seated position. To determine compliance, it is necessary to have a consistent point of measure. Since many transfer surfaces are not perfectly flat, measuring to the highest point in an uncompressed state provides this consistent point of measure. Identifying the highest point on the transfer surface will assure that all points on the transfer surface comply with the height criteria. This recommendation applies to exam tables and chairs and this measurement may not necessarily be at the centerline of the seat where there are higher points on the seat.

Figure 5.1.4 Illustration of Height Measurement
(SOURCE: Midmark Corporation)