Redesign Wheelchair Using The Failure Mode and Effect Analysis Method

Abstract

Background: The research aims to identify potential hazards, then assess and determine mitigations to avoid the risks of accidents resulting from the use of wheelchairs, as well as to reduce the incidence of accidents among elderly wheelchair users.

Methods: The FMEA method is a series of procedures used to identify potential risk hazards, followed by assessment and prevention measures to ensure that these hazards can be prevented or minimized. The research uses data from field observations and interviews.

Result: The results of the calculations indicate that the three highest RPN values reveal that the potential risk of accidents with the largest RPN value is "Head hanging," which poses a risk of neck nerve compression with an RPN value of 192. The second is "Hand caught in the wheel," which presents a potential danger to the area around the hand that could impact the fingers of the rim with an RPN value of 120. The third is "Foot hanging," which carries the risk of the foot being scratched or pinched while seated and could be greater when the wheelchair is in motion, with an RPN value of 112.

Conclusion: These three highest RPN values serve as priority recommendations for actions to reduce the RPN values.

Keywords: Elderly; Danger; Fmea method; Wheelcchair