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

5.4.5 Transfer Support Position Recommendation for M301 and M302

Description: Transfer support position refers to the placement of the gripping surface within the minimum and maximum vertical height ranges proposed. It addresses angled supports or contoured portions of horizontal supports often provided for ergonomics or equipment design considerations. This provision would apply along the support length and not to the cross-sectional profile of the gripping surface, see Figure 5.4.1.1.

NPRM Proposed Provision: position not addressed.

NPRM Question 17 e): Should angled or vertical transfer supports be permitted?

The Committee recommends a gripping surface be located within the minimum and maximum heights.

Rationale for the recommendation

The design process will determine the shape (contours and curves along length for ergonomics, not cross sectional profile) so that manufacturers can use creativity and flexibility as to the direction of positioning (i.e. horizontal, angled, etc.).

5.4.5.1 Transfer and Positioning Support Position Recommendation for Imaging Equipment

On imaging equipment, the transfer surface is oriented along the long dimension of the surface where patients lie in a supine, prone, or side-lying position (see Figure 5.4.2.2).

On imaging equipment with transfer surfaces, the transfer or positioning support must be oriented horizontally.

Rationale for the recommendation

A transfer support will extend horizontally along the side of the patient scanning/imaging table at least the minimum width of the transfer surface, but in all cases 28 inches minimum. It will be located at the designated transfer location.

A positioning support will extend horizontally along the side of the patient scanning/imaging bed/table and be 12 - 16 inches in length and 3 - 6 inches above the transfer surface. It will be located at a position designated by the manufacturer for optimal positioning assistance.

(see Figure 5.4.2.2 Schematic of Transfer Surface Size and Patient Support for Diagnostic Imaging Equipment)