Wheelchair Securement Checklist – Five Checks Before Travel

Before transporting a passenger seated in a wheelchair, complete five basic WTORS checks: wheelchair suitability, wheelchair position, wheelchair securement, occupant restraint and equipment condition.

1. Is the wheelchair suitable and configured for transport?

Check the wheelchair manufacturer’s transportation information and identify designated or otherwise suitable securement points where provided. If the wheelchair’s transport suitability or attachment method is unclear, stop and seek guidance.

2. Is the wheelchair correctly positioned?

The wheelchair should be positioned in the location and orientation intended for the vehicle and securement system. Operators need access to the required wheelchair securement and occupant-restraint components.

3. Is the wheelchair securement complete?

Confirm all required tiedowns are correctly attached or the docking system is fully engaged. Look for missing connections, poor attachment points, twisted webbing or obvious slack where the system requires tension or engagement.

4. Is the occupant restraint correctly positioned?

Check the pelvic and upper-torso restraint. Wheelchair components such as armrests, wheels or side structures should not create an obviously poor belt route or hold the belt away from the occupant.

5. Is the equipment serviceable?

Look for frayed or cut webbing, damaged hooks or fittings, buckles that do not operate correctly, damaged or obstructed floor track, and docking equipment that does not positively engage.

When should you stop and escalate?

  • The correct wheelchair securement point cannot be identified
  • The restraint cannot be positioned appropriately on the occupant
  • Required equipment is missing or damaged
  • The docking system does not correctly engage
  • A vehicle anchorage appears damaged
  • The wheelchair configuration prevents correct WTORS use
  • The equipment has been involved in a crash and its service status is uncertain

Remember the five checks

Suitable. Positioned. Secured. Restrained. Serviceable.

Start WTORS Training Learn What WTORS Means

This checklist is general educational guidance. Always follow the applicable equipment manufacturer’s instructions, standards, regulatory requirements and organisation procedures.

Content status: Updated by the Estraints Technical Team on 24 September 2026. See how Estraints develops and reviews technical guidance.