Easy Guide to Operate a Ricon Solid Wheelchair Lift: If you’re looking to safely and confidently use a Ricon Solid Wheelchair Lift, this guide will walk you through the essentials. Designed for ease and dependability, these lifts help wheelchair users board and exit minibuses with minimal effort. Whether you’re operating the lift yourself or assisting someone else, learning the correct steps is key to ensuring a smooth and secure experience every time. If you’re looking for a wheelchair accessible minibus, click here.
Step 1:
First, make sure the engine is switched off whilst using the lift. Then locate the lift isolator switch, which is usually to the right of the steering wheel, flick that switch on. It’s now ready for use.
Step 2:
Next, locate the hand held remote which is usually on the left side of the minibus. Once ready, press and hold the deploy button until the lift reaches the minibus floor level. Then, press and hold the down button until the lift has reached the ground.
Step 3:
Carefully push the wheelchair user onto the lift, apply the brakes and click the lifts seatbelt system into place. Once ready, press and hold the up button until the lift reaches the minibus floor level. Once reached safely release the wheelchair brakes and push the user into the minibus, make sure to correctly secure the wheelchair into the minibus using restraints (to find out how to use wheelchair restraints click here)
Step 4:
Finally, to put the lift away, simply press and hold the stow button until the lift reaches it’s original location.
By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure the Ricon Solid Wheelchair Lift operates safely and efficiently for every ride. With a bit of practice and attention to detail, using the lift becomes second nature—making transportation more accessible and stress-free for everyone involved.
The Ricon Onboard Split Wheelchair Lift is a reliable and user-friendly solution designed to provide safe access to our minibuses for wheelchair users. Whether you’re a new user or assisting someone with mobility needs, understanding how to operate the lift properly is essential for safety and ease of use. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basic steps to ensure smooth and secure operation every time.
1. First, make sure the engine is switched off whilst using the lift. Then locate the hand held controller, usually on the left side of the lift. Once you have this, simply click the on button to activate the lift. It’s now ready for use.
2. Once ready, press and hold the deploy button until the lift reaches the minibus floor level. Then, press and hold the down button until the lift has reached the ground.
3. Carefully push the wheelchair user onto the lift and apply the brakes. Once ready, press and hold the up button until the lift reaches the minibus floor level. Once reached safely release the wheelchair brakes and push the user into the minibus, make sure to correctly secure the wheelchair into the minibus using restraints (to find out how to use wheelchair restraints click here)
4. Finally, to put the lift away, simply press and hold the stow button until the lift reaches it’s original location.
Now that you know how to operate your Ricon Onboard Split Wheelchair Lift, you can ensure safe and smooth transportation every time. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and perform regular checks to keep your lift in top condition. If you have questions or need service, don’t hesitate to contact your mobility equipment provider or reach out to us for support. Explore our full range of accessibility solutions today.
How to secure a wheelchair in a minibus is a critical skill for ensuring the safety and comfort of wheelchair users during transport. Whether you’re a professional driver, caregiver, operator, or family member, knowing the correct techniques can prevent accidents and offer peace of mind. In this guide—and the video linked below—you’ll learn the correct steps to safely position, restrain, and secure a wheelchair, using Koller Engineering wheelchair restraints, before heading out onto the road.
1. Preparing the Space and Boarding the Wheelchair
Remove the necessary seats to create the dedicated space for the wheelchair. Then safely board the wheelchair user using either a wheelchair lift or ramp.
2. Position and Secure Front Wheelchair Restraints
Start by taking the 2 front restraints (these are the 2 short ones), and gently slide them into the tracking until they click into place. Make sure both of these are perfectly aligned and parallel. Next, take the belts, wrap them around the front wheelchair legs and buckle them securely. With the front 2 restraints in place, gently roll back the wheelchair to add tension onto these straps.
3. Position and Secure Rear Left Restraint
Now lets move to the rear restraints. Take the one with a seatbelt stalk attached to it, this will be for the rear left of the wheelchair. First, slide it into the tracking until you hear a click. Then, attach the carabiner to the rear leg of the wheelchair, open the ratchet and tighten this strap to secure it into place.
4. Securing Rear Right Restraint, Applying Seatbelt and Final Check
Next, take the final restraint for the rear right of the wheelchair. Start by sliding this into the tracking until you hear a click, making sure it’s aligned and parallel to the restraint on the left. Then, attach the carabiner to the rear leg of the wheelchair, open the ratchet and tighten this strap to secure it into place. Now take the seatbelt, lift it from the floor and around the passenger, making sure it goes over the shoulder like a regular seatbelt, then click it into the seatbelt buckle. Once everything is in place, give the wheelchair a gentle shake. If done correctly, there will be no movement from the wheelchair.
Securing a wheelchair in a minibus isn’t just about ticking a safety box—it’s about respecting the safety of every passenger. By following the steps shown in the video and outlined in this blog, you can ensure every passenger is secure, making the journeys stress-free. Always make sure the wheelchair passenger is secured in place with no movement before continuing to drive the minibus. To learn more about wheelchair accessible minibuses, click here.
At Minibus World we are experts in manufacturing minibuses from 9 to 17 seats. We are often asked which is the best lift for a wheelchair accessible minibus? And as with most things in life, it is a bit ‘horses for courses’. However, in this blog we will seek to explain the options so you can make an informed decision. Alternatively, call the team at Minibus World who will be able to recommend a solution based on your needs.
The size of your minibus, seating configuration and day to day requirements will heavily influence the best lift for a wheelchair accessible minibus. You can configure a small minibus (that would normally seat 9) to hold one wheelchair but a large 17 seat minibus can be configured to hold up to 6 wheelchairs.
Once you know what size minibus you need the next consideration is use. Will you just be carrying wheelchair passengers? Will you need removable seating for able-bodied passengers? How often will you be transporting wheelchair passengers? The answers to these questions will affect your choice of lift or wheelchair ramp. To help you select your accessible minibus visit our web page.
Options to consider are under floor lift, onboard lift, split onboard lift, telescopic ramp and manual fold out ramp. But which is the best lift for a wheelchair accessible minibus?
Underfloor Electric Lift (Concealed Cassette Lift)
The most versatile lift offered by Minibus World. The lift sits under the rear of the minibus when not in use, so maximum standard seating can be maintained when not carrying a wheelchair. When wheelchair carrying ability is needed, it’s a simple case of removing the NMI quick release seats to free up space for the wheelchair(s).
Popular on larger minibuses and not available on our small accessible range, the underfloor lift is fully electric and both easy and safe to use.
The onboard lift as the name suggests is stowed onboard the minibus when not in use. It folds up vertically, adjacent to the rear doors of the minibus, taking up some space but not a huge amount (as you can see on the picture). As with the underfloor lift, the onboard lift maximises seating when not in use and is deployed simply and safely using a handheld controller.
A variation on the onboard lift a split onboard lift has the additional benefit that the lift platform separates in half as it retracts to be stowed. This grants the driver and passengers a greater field of vision by not obscuring the rear window of the minibus. At the same time it does not compromise ease of access to the wheelchair user.
Wheelchair accessible split onboard lifts are managed by a handheld controller. These are intuitive to use, with simple button management to deploy, lower, raise and stow.
Manual ramps are best used for infrequent wheelchair journeys due to size and weight. On the positive side they are cost effective, do not require LOLER certification and if not in use do not add any weight or impact on seating capacity in the minibus. At Minibus world we offer both telescopic and manual ramps.
So the best lift for a wheelchair accessible minibus is also down to client need. At Minibus World we can offer you a demonstration of a variety of lifts and if you are not close to us in the heart of Staffordshire, you can check out our video’s on our YouTube Channel.
Ensuring safe and efficient access for wheelchair users is paramount, and a 15ft BraunAbility wheelchair ramp offers a practical solution for wheelchair accessibility. Whether you’re a caregiver, driver, or someone assisting with mobility needs, understanding the correct usage of such ramps is crucial. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to using ramp effectively for your wheelchair accessible minibus.
1. Release the Safety Straps
Unbuckle the straps holding the ramp in place.
Make sure they are completely free before proceeding.
2. Release the Red Pin Catch
Locate the red safety pin that locks the ramp.
Release it carefully to begin unfolding.
3. Unclip the End Section
Unbuckle the clips that secure the final ramp section.
This will allow the full ramp to extend without obstruction.
4. Fully Extend the Ramp
Unfold the last section until it rests securely on the ground.
Double-check that all sections are flat and stable.
5. Safely Push the Wheelchair User Up the Ramp
Once the ramp is fully extended, proceed to push the wheelchair user up the ramp and into position.
Once inside the vehicle apply the wheelchair brakes.
6. Secure the Wheelchair with Tie-Downs
Attach all four tie-down straps to the designated points on the wheelchair frame.
Tighten the straps so the chair is fully immobilised, with no rocking or rolling.
Double-check that all restraints are secure before moving.
7. Stow the Ramp After Use
Fold the final section back up.
Buckle the end clips.
Fold the main ramp into its stored position.
Reinsert the red pin catch and fasten the safety straps securely.
Using a 15ft BraunAbility wheelchair ramp correctly ensures the safety and comfort of both the wheelchair user and the assistant. By following the steps outlined above, you can facilitate smooth transitions over elevation changes, promoting independence and mobility. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific instructions related to your ramp model, and prioritize safety in every use.
For more tutorials and guides on mobility solutions, subscribe to our channel and stay informed on best practices.
BraunAbility wheelchair lifts are widely trusted for their safety, reliability, and ease of use—especially in accessible minibuses. Whether you’re a driver, carer, or part of a transport service team, knowing how to operate the lift correctly is key. In this guide, we walk you through each step of using a BraunAbility onboard wheelchair lift fitted in a minibus.
1. Secure the Minibus
Park on level ground, apply the handbrake and make sure the ignition is switched off.
Switch on lift isolator button to engage the wheelchair lift.
2. Activate the Lift Controls
Use the handheld controller located near the lift.
Make sure the lift power switch is turned on before starting to use.
4. Deploy the Lift Platform
Press the “deploy” button.
The platform will lower from the stowed position to the minibus floor level.
5. Assist the Wheelchair User
Guide the wheelchair user safely onto the platform.
Ensure the wheelchair is centered and the brakes are applied.
6. Lift the Platform
Press the “up” button to raise the platform smoothly to floor level.
7. Enter the Vehicle
Carefully guide the wheelchair user into the minibus.
Secure the wheelchair with all provided tie-downs and seatbelts.
8. Stow the Lift
Once the passenger is safely inside, press the “stow” button to fold the lift back into its storage position.
Using a BraunAbility wheelchair lift in a minibus is straightforward when you follow each step with care. Regular use and proper training will help ensure safety and confidence for both operators and passengers.
Using a wheelchair lift safely and correctly is essential for both operators and passengers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of using a PLS underfloor wheelchair lift, a reliable and space-saving solution found on accessible vehicles. Whether you’re a driver, caregiver, or new user, this quick guide will help you feel confident operating the lift.
1. Prepare the Vehicle
Park the vehicle on a flat, stable surface.
Ensure the vehicle ignition is switched off, engage the handbrake and turn on the lift isolator switch, located to the right of the steering wheel.
2. Access the Lift Controls
Open the rear door where the lift is fitter.
Locate the remote, mounted inside near the lift area.
3. Deploy the Lift
Start by raising the red safety handle, using the remote, hold the up button to deploy the lift. Keep holding until the wheelchair lift reaches the same height as the minibus floor.
Then lift both safety handles into position and slide out the extension platform so it’s ready for loading.
4. Load the Wheelchair User
Press and hold the down button until the lift has fully reached the ground.
Once fully lowered, carefully push the wheelchair onto the centre of the platform.
Engage the wheelchair brakes once in position.
5. Raise the Lift
Press the “up” button on the control.
The platform will lift smoothly to floor level with the vehicle.
6. Enter the Vehicle
Once aligned, guide the wheelchair user carefully into the vehicle.
Secure them using appropriate tie-downs and seatbelts.
7. Stow the Lift
Press the “stow” or “fold” button to retract the lift under the vehicle.
The PLS underfloor wheelchair lift is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, ensuring a safe and dignified transfer for wheelchair users. Following this guide and watching the video will help you build confidence in using the system effectively. Always check the user manual and receive proper training if you’re new to the equipment.
Need more tutorials? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for accessible transport tips and guidance.
Minibus World, based in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, is a trusted UK provider of wheelchair accessible minibuses and lifting equipment. Our LOLER Compliant Wheelchair Access Minibus are certified to the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), giving you peace of mind when transporting wheelchair users.
Whether you’re part of a school, charity, or social club, understanding LOLER and your responsibilities can help you stay compliant and, most importantly, keep your passengers safe.
LOLER is a set of regulations designed to reduce risks associated with lifting equipment. These rules apply to anyone who owns, operates or controls such equipment in the workplace — including tail lifts used in wheelchair accessible minibuses.
Under LOLER, all lifting equipment must be:
LOLER applies to a wide range of lifting gear — not just industrial cranes. If your minibus is fitted with:
… then LOLER compliance is essential.
If you’re an employer, minibus operator, or even a self-employed driver who provides or controls lifting equipment — the answer is yes. You are legally responsible for ensuring the equipment is safe to use and regularly inspected. Therefore, a LOLER compliant wheelchair access minibus is essential.
For schools, care providers and community transport operators, this means making LOLER checks part of your regular maintenance schedule.
A thorough examination is a detailed inspection of lifting equipment by a competent person — someone with the technical knowledge and experience to identify potential risks. After inspection, they must provide a signed written report.
These checks are required at least every six months for equipment used to lift people.
At Minibus World, we offer a wide range of LOLER compliant wheelchair lifts. Here’s a quick overview of the main options available:
Underfloor (Cassette) Lift
Ideal for larger minibuses, these lifts are hidden under the vehicle and don’t take up internal space. They maximise passenger seating — up to 17 seats — and deploy easily via handheld controller.
Best for: larger school or care minibuses
Keeps interior space free
Onboard Lift
Mounted inside the vehicle, this lift is compact and suitable for smaller minibuses. Some cabin space is required, but it’s quick and simple to operate.
Best for: medium-sized vehicles
Easy access with minimal setup
Split Onboard Lift
This lift functions like the onboard lift but splits in half when stowed, preserving rear window visibility. It’s a great blend of functionality and design.
Best for: operators who need full rear visibility
User-friendly with clear controls
Ramps and Winches
For those preferring manual solutions, we also offer:
These are reliable, cost-effective alternatives to powered lifts.
We don’t just sell minibuses, we deliver compliance, safety and confidence. Here’s what sets us apart:
Explore our range of vehicles with fitted electric lifts, or browse our full selection of Wheelchair Accessible Minibuses for ramp and winch options.
Need Advice? Whether you’re replacing an existing vehicle or buying your first accessible minibus, we’re here to help. Contact our friendly team today for expert guidance and a no-obligation quote.
