February 18, 2026 | Terry Smith

Answering your Frequently Asked Questions about the TransitFlow Powered Portering Chair

If you are exploring ways to make patient transport safer, easier, and more efficient for your portering team, the TransitFlow Powered Portering Chair may be a suitable solution for your Trust.

In this article, we have answered the most common questions we receive from hospitals considering the TransitFlow Powered Portering Chair.

What is the TransitFlow Powered Portering Chair?

The TransitFlow Powered Portering Chair is a hospital transport chair designed to remove the physical strain of pushing patients across long distances, outdoor routes, or sloped corridors. It features a powered drive system that assists the porter, helping to reduce injury risk and improve comfort for both staff and patients.

The powered system is controlled by a simple throttle on the push handles, making operation intuitive for any team member.

Who is the powered version designed for?

The powered variant is ideal for hospitals where porters frequently move patients:

  • Up or down slopes
  • Across outdoor or uneven surfaces
  • Over long distances between departments
  • In situations where staff injury risk is a concern
  • When bariatric transport capacity is required

Several trusts, such as Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, have already adopted the powered chair to overcome these exact challenges, especially where journeys involve multi‑level routes or part‑outdoor transfers.

What weight can the Powered TransitFlow support?

There are two powered models to suit different patient groups:

  • Standard Powered model with a 200 kg safe working load
  • Bariatric Powered model with a 250 kg safe working load

Both options use a robust steel frame, wide wheels, and a central braking system designed for demanding daily hospital use.

What makes it easier and safer for staff?

Several features contribute to reduced strain on portering teams:

  • Powered drive assist takes the effort out of pushing, especially with heavier patients
  • 300 mm rear wheels and central braking create smooth control on ramps and rough surfaces
  • Folding armrests and sliding footrest support safe, dignified transfers with minimal manual handling
  • Ergonomic handle positioning helps maintain natural posture during movement

These benefits also support a reduction in musculoskeletal injuries, one of the most common risks in portering teams.

Is it robust enough for daily hospital use?

Yes. The TransitFlow range has been engineered for high‑frequency use in busy hospital environments. Features that improve durability include:

  • Stainless steel frame with epoxy coating for resistance to rust
  • Reinforced armrests, load tested to 200 kg
  • Heavy-duty footplate, designed to withstand 200 kg, or 250 kg on the bariatric model

Hospitals often comment on the build quality and reliability, even with continuous daily use.

What accessories are available?

To help you configure the chair for your exact needs, a wide range of accessories is available, including:

  • IV poles (fixed or removable)
  • Oxygen cylinder holders
  • Accessory baskets
  • Leg rests
  • Anti-theft systems
  • Coin lock options
  • Bag hooks

These can be added or swapped between chairs to suit different departments.

Can I use my existing TransitFlow accessories with the powered model?

Yes. All accessories compatible with the Standard TransitFlow are also compatible with the powered version. The only exception is that the adjustable leg rest is not available for the bariatric model.

Where can I see the Powered TransitFlow in action?

You can view photos, specifications, and a case study video from Yeovil Hospital directly on the product page:

Visit the product page:
https://www.felgains.com/care-products/transitflow-powered-hospital-portering-chair/

If you would like to see and try the chair in person, we can arrange a demonstration or on‑site trial for your portering team.

 


 

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