Domestic Safety Evaluation of Upright Posture Device Tools for Children with Cerebral Palsy in Malaysia

Abstract

The advancement of secure and efficacious assistive technologies is crucial for enhancing the quality of life and autonomy of children with disabilities. This research tackles the essential requirement within the Malaysian setting, concentrating primarily on upright posture device tools (UPDT) for children with cerebral palsy. Children with cerebral palsy frequently have difficulties in executing daily tasks autonomously due to restricted physical activity, rendering dependable assistive devices crucial for improving their mobility and general quality of life. The main aim of this study is to thoroughly assess the safety, stability, and durability of UPDTs, confirming their suitability for residential applications. Assessments were undertaken at the FITEC Furniture Testing Centre (FFTC) to evaluate the structural integrity and general safety of each equipment, utilising established standards such as BSEN 12520:2015, BSEN 1022:2005 and BSEN 1728:2012. Significant insights were revealed as the results demonstrated the absence of fractures or failures in joints and components, with all stiff joints maintaining stability under stress. Moreover, the devices satisfied stability criteria during weight-bearing assessments, validating their durability. This study supplies essential data to advise UPDT safety standards and presents practical design recommendations for improving assistive device security. Ultimately, our findings endorse the ongoing development of UPDTs, enhancing the welfare of children with disabilities and their families. Subsequent studies should build upon these findings to assess the effectiveness of UPDTs in enhancing health and functional autonomy in younger users.