Features You Need In Your Chair Scales

In this blog, we’re going to break down some of the essential features that you might need in your chair scales and help you make an informed buying decision.

Class III Approval

This is a common one that is an absolute must in medical weighing. Class III approval shows that the scales have been manufactured and perform to a high standard. Class III is the minimum requirement for weighing scales being used in the medical industry and most retailers will clearly specify if their scales are Class III approved or not. Scales without a Class III classification may not be able to be used for certain functions in a medical environment.

MDD Approval

MDD approval is a similar approval to Class II, simply from a different governing body. The Medical Devices Directive (93/42/EEC) covers medical devices intended by the manufacturer to assist in: diagnosis, prevention, monitoring, treatment or alleviation of a disease, an injury or a handicap (in the context of weighing devices).

Foldable Armrests

This is an easy feature to overlook. However, if we look at the needs of someone who would be weighed in a chair, rather than a traditional column scale, we can see why these are key features to purchase.

With foldable armrests the patient must lift themselves (be assisted) into a standing position and then lower themselves onto the seat, which may cause discomfort; Folding armrests mean that the weighing chair can be placed alongside where the patient is already sitting or lying, and can then slide across onto the chair, without having to put too much weight on their feet. This makes a huge quality of service difference to the patient, who may not wish to be lifted, nor could move themselves in such a way.

Damping

Damping is a technology used in weighing which reduces the affects of vibrations on the scale’s reading. It could be something as simple as the vibrations of people walking down the hall, through to the movement of the patient on the scales, the devices ability to counteract and adapt to these movements means that you have a reliable and repeatable reading.

Damping is a relatively common technology in medical scales, however, don’t get caught out with scales that are missing this essential feature. If our listing doesn’t specifically list “damping” as a feature, it may still be included. Give our dedicated team a ring for more information on the product.

Communications

Depending on the set-up of your facility, you may be able to interconnect your sit down scales with other systems. Many weighing chairs have different options available such as wired and wireless connections. A wired connection is a simple and easy way to connect it to other devices. There are options such as RS232 and USB ports which allow most chairs to interface with most other peripherals and accessories. Alternatively, you could opt for a wireless connection. This cleans up the room and allows freer movement of the scale. For this, there are options such as WIFI and Bluetooth available. Look at the current devices within your establishment and see if the chair can integrate with them to simplify the weighing process.

There are a huge number of other features available on the market. If you’re looking for something specific to for your facility, simply gives us a call on 01243 697372 and we’ll do our best to help you find the equipment you’re looking for.