People with disability who drive industrial, commercial or delivery vehicles for work may require or benefit from the use of steering grips or anti-vibration steering wheel wraps, to allow them to drive independently and with less fatigue.
If a particular steering wheel grip or modification is required in the workplace due to a person’s disability, and is not something normally supplied by the employer under their occupational health and safety requirements, consideration can be given to applying for funding assistance through the Employment Assistance Fund. Please refer to the following to determine eligibility:
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
Persons with reduced grip, and or functional use of one arm, can use steering grips or anti-vibration steering wheel wraps to enable them to drive independently in the workplace. They may also require other vehicle modifications, such as a steering wheel knob. In order to comply with Roads and Traffic Authority regulations a steering wheel knob should be quick release to enable it to be removed from the steering wheel easily. In instances where they are not quick release, the vehicle would not be able to be driven on public roads. A person wishing to use any type of steering wheel knob is required to complete a Roads and Traffic Authority Disability Driving Test prior to drive on public roads. Please contact the local state or territory based licensing centre for the relevant information.
For more information on vehicles and vehicle modifications in the workplace, please see the links below:
References:
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Buyers Guide: Spinner Knobs, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. Sydney, viewed 12 November 2011,
http://www.ilcaustralia.org/home/search4.asp?State=NSW&MC=51&MinC=11&Item=2556&page=3.
Links to specific types of steering products
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Workplace Adjustment Tool link to search again.