Standards and Anthropometry for Wheeled Mobility

Bails et al.

Bails recruited participants from attendees at disability support centers and institutions. Participants had to be between 18 and 60 years of age and had to either use a manual or powered wheelchair. Scooter users were not included in the study. The exact sample size is difficult to determine because each sub-study had a different sample size and not all participants were given an ID number. It therefore remains unclear whether or not the total number of participants is the aggregate of the individual studies or if some individuals participated in more than one field test.

Bails’ research focused on testing of full-size simulations of elements found in the built environment, such as doorways, environmental controls, furniture and fixtures. Research findings from many of the field tests used pre-established sizes and features to measure barriers and problems. The research was focused on testing the adequacy of current standards. Many of the findings therefore could not be used to make generalizations or to determine the ideal spaces needed for access. Much of Bails’ data was reported in an incomplete and disorganized manner. For example, hand printed lists of results from each sub-study were included in his report which were difficult to decipher.